The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

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

Vying for her hand are two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond is a gentleman in the Navy and is held in high esteem. Peter Kelly is the town's baker and has worked hard to build a thriving business. He and Drummond not only compete for Arabella's affections, but 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 abandoned by her tribe. Intent on helping the girl, 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?

MY THOUGHTS.....

The history of the bride ships is fascinating and this second book in The Bride Ships series offers a deeper look at the women who left their homes in England and endured long, grueling journeys to Vancouver so that they could marry men who were complete strangers. Author Jody Hedlund has created some fascinating characters for The Runaway Bride and, as I got to know them, I realized that they weren't anything like I thought. Arabella Lawrence is considered part of the high class in England and even though she considers herself a spinster, she definitely plans to marry someone worthy of her place in society. Upon her arrival in Vancouver, Arabella becomes acquainted with two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond, with his good reputation and his high position in the Navy, appears to be a man who meets her standards. Peter Kelly is hard-working and successful but he belongs to the working class and even though Arabella enjoys his company, she doesn't consider him husband material.

I was drawn to Peter Kelly for his deep faith and his great personality so I found myself irritated with Arabella for overlooking him but Arabella's past has certainly influenced her present. As they continue to work together, it becomes apparent that there is a mutual attraction between Peter and Arabella but could she ever be happy with a baker?

The historical details in Hedlund's story are excellent and the romantic scenes will take your breath away. I truly enjoyed The Runaway Bride and I recommend it to all who enjoy historial fiction and Christian romance.

I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House Publishers. I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions in this review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

You can learn more about Jody Hedlund by visiting her 

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