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About this item
Highlights
- Wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship still wearing the scars of past mistakes.
- About the Author: Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of over 20 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.
- 384 Pages
- Fiction + Literature Genres, Christian
- Series Name: Bride Ships
Description
About the Book
Arabella Lawrence fled on a bride ship wearing the scars of past mistakes. Now in British Columbia, two men vying for her hand disagree on how the native people should be treated during a smallpox outbreak. Intent on helping a girl abandoned by her tribe, will Arabella have the wisdom to make the right decision, or will seeking what's right cost her everything?Book Synopsis
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?
From the Back Cover
Haunted by Mistakes in Her Past, Will She Ever AgainTrust 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?
"The Runaway Bride is an uplifting and well-crafted second installment in Hedlund's Bride Ships series. Hedlund has a knack for creating unlikely yet alluring matches. . . . Period details, such as relations with local Native Americans and a smallpox epidemic, help immerse readers in the story's 1862 world of cultural, class, and gender injustices. Tender moments of light sensuality infuse this inspirational romance with delectable heat."--Booklist starred review
"The book's inspirational aspect is also evident in the struggles the main characters have had in their past and their path to understanding God's plans for their future. It's not merely a romance, as the tension between the settlers and their Native American neighbors provides plenty of dramatic action. I found this book a real page-turner and look forward to checking out the other books in the series."--Historical Novels Review
About the Author
Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of over 20 historical novels 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 teens, and five spoiled cats. Visit her at www.jodyhedlund.com.Dimensions (Overall): 8.4 Inches (H) x 5.5 Inches (W) x 1.1 Inches (D)
Weight: .75 Pounds
Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up
Number of Pages: 384
Genre: Fiction + Literature Genres
Sub-Genre: Christian
Series Title: Bride Ships
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Format: Paperback
Author: Jody Hedlund
Language: English
Street Date: March 3, 2020
TCIN: 78478055
UPC: 9780764232961
Item Number (DPCI): 247-00-9700
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Shipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 1.1 inches length x 5.5 inches width x 8.4 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.75 pounds
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5.0 out of 5 stars with 9 reviews
100% would recommend
9 recommendations
Hedlund Won Me Over w/her Hunky, Sacrificial Hero
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Babbling Becky L - 5 years ago
Jody Hedlund won me over in The Runaway Bride, #2 The Bride Ships, with her hero. He is Pete Kelly, a baker who is well-liked and charismatic. He also has a keen eye out for injustice done to his fellow-man and is quick to get involved. He is kind, has compassion even on his enemies, and is really trying to live for God. Which brings up his biggest question for God: if he’s living according to God’s plan, why is his life so tough? Pete has to decide if living life God’s way is worthwhile if it doesn’t always result in a life of ease or happiness.
Arabella is one very confused lady. She certainly seems to have a severe case of indecision. She brought to mind that verse in James about a double-minded person that is "blown and tossed by the wind.” (James 1:6 NLT) Just when I thought, "Now she’ll come to her senses and understand which direction to go,” she would falter and backpedal faster than a carriage whose horses are spooked. Thank goodness for Hedlund’s author’s notes. Hedlund assures us she’s aware we 21st-century readers might have difficulty understanding a 19th-century English woman’s hesitation to step outside of societal norms. By the novel’s end, Arabella develops a very strong spine and I wondered if I would be that courageous.
This is a nonlinear story, so we are fed a bit of the present story, then a memory bite of the past. Eventually, the dichotomous storyline is completed after much danger, soul-searching, and exciting adventures with a few clean romantic kisses, plus a nice ending twist.
Perhaps the players I most admired stayed in the background. Mercy taught Arabella so much by her example. Mrs. Moresby and Hayward were ladies I really wanted to meet and enjoy knowing.
One other note. Hedlund’s historical research is impeccable and a reader can learn a great deal about Victoria in the 1860s.
Notable Quotables:
“He’ll give you courage like no other can.”
”I always figured if God thinks the condition of a person’s heart matters more, then I should, too.”
”She’d been satisfied with eating crumbs in her relationships when there were feasts that awaited if she just had enough courage to partake.”
”...when we stand up against injustice, we’ll likely suffer for doing the right thing.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Bethany House through NetGalley. This in no way influences my opinions, which are solely my own.
(no review title)
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 5 years ago
This book was so fun to read. I was blessed to previously read A Reluctant Bride, which was the first book in the Bride Ships series. You don’t need to read the first in order to enjoy this one, but I recommend it because you first meet Arabella and Mercy in that story. The Bride Ship series follows ladies who embark on a journey across the ocean hoping for a better life. Arabella was born into comfort, but when she is forced to make a decision that could cost her life, Arabella flees to join the bride ship. Arriving at a place so unlike anything she’s known, Arabella knows she must choose the right husband, and as quickly as possible.
Having two men vying for her attention is flattering. One seems like the obvious choice, but for some reason the other one draws her. In a land where society doesn’t seem to matter as much, can she follow her heart? Or will those old rules so drilled into her head override what she truly wants the most?
I enjoyed watching Arabella navigate the new world and learn more about herself. Being free to do things once looked down upon would be an exciting experience. She had interesting chemistry with both men, although I had a clear favorite right away. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
My Favorite Kind of Story!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Rebecca Maney - 5 years ago
4.5 stars
"Who could resist a woman who talked to herself?"
Not Peter Kelly, that's for sure. Just one look at the flame haired beauty aboard the bride ship was all it took to seal the deal in his heart; now, all he has to do is to convince the graceful former socialite of this foregone conclusion.
Arabella Lawrence is determined not to make the same mistake twice as she steps foot onto Vancouver Island in British Columbia. No rushed romances, and no rash decisions. As the flirty, over-confident, absurdly handsome local baker makes his grand entrance into her circle of acquaintances, her head tells her that the more rational choice of friends should be the Navy Lieutenant, Richard Drummond. His status alone should tip the scales of respectability and a lifetime of security. Of course, it doesn't help when Peter says things like, "when I kiss you, you won't wipe my kiss away . . . you'll be asking for more".
Rarely does an author orchestrate pitch perfect characters, but Jody Hedlund has done exactly that in this love-at-first-sight, opposites-attract addition to her already popular Bride Ships series. But the story runs deeper; much, much deeper as Peter and Arabella delve into their past mistakes and are reminded in a myriad of ways how "our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth".
Great Historical Fiction
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Connie Saunders - 5 years ago
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.
Moving story of courage, compassion, and second chances
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 5 years ago
The Runaway Bride, by Jody Hedlund, is the second book in The Bride Ships series. With a stunning combination of history, adventure, and romance, this book is an absolute pleasure to read! Captivating and truly meaningful, this novel certainly impresses with its vivid setting, compelling characters, and engrossing plot.
As a truly gifted storyteller, Ms. Hedlund’s has once again succeeded in writing a novel that is truly enjoyable and utterly entertaining. From the coastal city of Victoria to a crowded workroom of a small bread shop, to the spectacular views experienced from the seats in a wooden canoe, the settings of this novel are beautifully detailed and appealing. And it is within these settings that the characters in this book pursue their hearts' desires, reveal their true natures, seek redemption, and nurture their faith. Page after page, these characters are memorable and authentic. Their hopes, concerns, insecurities, and convictions are interesting and moving. As a reader, it was easy for me to become invested in their stories and the plot details that flowed from them. From beginning to end, I was engaged by this remarkable novel of peril, hope, uncertainty, courage, compassion, and second chances.
Rich with detail and drama, this story is well-written and edifying. The Runaway Bride is a worthy novel. I recommend it wholeheartedly to all readers. I certainly enjoyed reading it, and I am definitely looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
*I was given a copy of this book from the publisher and from NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Fantastic historical fiction
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 5 years ago
"Yet, as far as he'd fallen, God had held on tight. When he'd been at his worst, God's grace had been at its best."
It's another beautiful, redemptive, and satisfying historical fiction from Jody Hedlund. This is book 2 in The Bride Ships series but can be read as a stand-alone. The main characters from the first book make an appearance in this book but they play minor roles and their story is quite separate from the story of Arabella and Peter. Arabella is a well-to-do gentlewoman fleeing from a neglected past and an abusive fiance while Peter is a baker who has finally found peace and contentment in the wilds of Canada. So many things stand in their way - their vastly different social class, their opposite viewpoints in life, their differing outlooks and personalities - but they are drawn together by compassion for the natives during a smallpox outbreak on Vancouver Island.
As expected, Jody Hedlund creates a rich and tangible backdrop in the city of Victoria and brings out the main characters layer by layer until you helplessly fall in love with them. Peter is gloriously swoony in his romantic, sensitive, compassionate, and faithful way and he truly lives life at full speed. Arabella, on the other hand, is fearful, second-guesses herself at every step, and lives confined by what others say and think. Through trials and turmoils, Peter and Arabella learn to see eye to eye. The process of commercial baking in the 1800s is fascinating and enlightening. If you enjoy historical fiction, this book and the series are a must read!
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
A Must Read!!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
BredaLee - 5 years ago
A Must Read Series!!
This is the second book of The Bride Ship Series. We met Arabella in the first book when the bride ship started out. Even though the first book was mostly about Mercy we got to hear from Arabella several times. Arabella is a lady and tries her best to act like one. The ladies get to be courted by the best gentlemen but there is someone else that is trying to court her too. Pete doesn’t have a high standing as Lieutenant Drummond does. Oh but she loved to bake what Pete was teaching her. I loved the characters, each one had depth and their personalities were so interesting. The descriptions of the land and people were wonderful.
I have enjoyed this book just like I did the first one. Getting to read about the hardships of the natives was an interesting part of the story too. I love that Pete and Arabella had a heart for them. If you like historical romance fiction at its best, read Jody Hedlund’s Bride Ship Series. I can truthfully say I never got bored.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
(no review title)
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
M Merrell - 5 years ago
It is hard to find the words to describe how much I loved this book! The first in the series is one of my favorites and I enjoyed this one just as much, if not more! Jody is masterful at weaving a swoon worthy romance with an interesting but lesser known chapter of history and the combination is a book that is impossible to put down. I loved the character development and growth of Pete and Arabella and how they inspired each other to be their best selves. They are both seeking the courage to do the right thing and find strength in each other and in their faith. This is a book I will pick up to read again and again and will be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!