Friday, March 20, 2020

Review of The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund


About the Book ~

Haunted by mistakes in her past, will she ever again trust her heart to another?

Wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship, still bearing the scars of past mistakes. One of the few single women in the boomtown, she immediately attracts suitors, but she is determined not to find herself trapped again by making a poor choice.

Vying for her hand are two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond is a gentleman in the Navy, held in high esteem. Peter Kelly is the town's baker who has worked hard to build a thriving business. He and Drummond not only compete for Arabella's affections, but also clash over their views of how the natives should be treated in the midst of a smallpox outbreak.

As Arabella begins to overcome her fears, she discovers someone in dire need -- a starving girl left behind by her tribe. Intent on helping the child, Arabella leans on Peter's advice and guidance. Will she have the wisdom to make the right decision, or will seeking what's right cost both her and Peter everything?

For more information about Jody Hedlund and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

I am pleased to report that despite the horrifying concept of bride ships, The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund is a delight!

While I've read some mail-order bride stories in the past, the bride ships in England's (at this time) British Columbia is an era of history I had not explored. This event and setting in history adds a unique twist to an already beloved trope. Additionally, the author did a wonderful job bringing this boomtown to life. As I read, I watched the upper-class try to grasp for the old ways of England as those born without privilege fight to carve a new life in this land of opportunities while the natives determine who is friend or foe. Also, I am always happy when an author is able to portray that physical attraction between a husband and wife is a good thing and created by God. Truly, the author did a wonderful job at providing readers with a sizzling yet clean story!

Arabella is a wonderful heroine to add to the Christian Fiction market! Arabella came from an upper-class family in England. While she wanted affection in her future marriage, she fully planned and expected to marry a man of a similar social station. Additionally, Arabella is a survivor of abuse. While potentially triggering, I found this to be handled with grace and tact. As I watched her break free from the restrictive chains of her upbringing while finding healing in God's love, I was blessed and convicted in my own walk with God. And Pete -- all the bookish heart eyes! I love a hero who's fighting to overcome the chains of his past sins while also making the hard choice to stand for what's right. I one hundred percent routed for Pete and his desire to be worthy of forgiveness, love, and a better life! And that ending -- gloriously happy tears!

Five Stars ~ The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund is a sweep-you-off-your-feet romance with a stirring message! The Runaway Bride is the author's second book in The Bride Ships Series from Bethany House, but this can be read as a standalone without any issue!

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!


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