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 … 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?
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The second book in The Bride Ship series, author Jody Hedlund takes us on a voyage with Arabella Lawrence who is surprised by what she finds when arriving in British Columbia. Her society notions are definitely put to the test when she meets Peter Kelly.
The characters in this story are colorful and will often put a smile on your face. Hedlund’s descriptions of British Columbia make me want to visit one day.
Not your typical rich girl falls for the poor guy story, will Arabella learn how to care for other people, and not worry about what is expected of her? Or will she marry rich as is expected of her? This story will keep you reading and turning pages quickly to see what happens next. If you enjoy historical fiction I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
The Runaway Bride, book two in the Bride Ships Series captured my heart from page one. The main character, Arabella was in the first book so I was familiar with her. I was pulled into the first novel, A Reluctant Bride as the brides traveled the world to British Columbia, Canada. I wanted prim and proper, but gentle Arabella to find love and joy since her past held some secrets. In The Runaway Bride. Jody is gifted at writing and does an outstanding job weaving faith and trusting God the main point.
Arabella’s past was terrible and continues to haunt her. She meets Peter who is from a different class, but they are attracted to each other. Carve out some time to read The Runaway Bride, I did not want the story to end and am looking forward to book three of the series.
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers in order to provide an honest review. The opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Arabella Lawrence is from a wealthy family and is on the run from a physically abusive fiancee who was chosen by her family and is old enough to be her grandfather. She makes her way to escape by taking a bride ship to British Columbia.
I loved the auburn beauty Arabella because she is kind and courageous but is definitely caught in the middle of warring suitors in an area where there are few men and women are at a premium. It was interesting to see if she could evolve from her wealthy upbringing to that of a simpler lifestyle. The local baker, Pete Kelly, is handsome, extremely hardworking and very kind hearted, especially to the natives. He definitely wins your heart over, as he has completely changed his life and turned it over to God. Lt. Drummond was the one character that was definitely not likeable and constanly made Pete’s life miserable as he vied for Arabella’s attention. He also abused his power, even causing the death of many natives due to smallpox. Something interesting that I picked up on in the story was that the smallpox vaccine was used. The vaccine had been invented in the late 1700’s, so I had no idea that it had been available for so long.
Note: This is book 2 in The Bride Ship series and can definitely be stand-alone, however you will miss out on an another enjoyable adventure in A Reluctant Bride. This novel does have a bit more sensual heat than I would expect for a Christian novel, so I would definitely classify this as an adult read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
A most intriguing read! I loved the characters and everything they brought to the story. Pete clearly shows how God can change us. I felt so close to Arabella, I truly felt for her. I loved the history that this book was so full of. There is Canadian history as a colony, the small pox with the Indians, the bride ships, as well as the way baking bread was done in a bakery. Arabella has so much courage to embark on a journey that could very well lead her back into the darkness she escaped. This story has so much depth and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. There are so many twist and turns that the reader can only delight in every page turned. The romance is sweet and clean, a brave woman daring to let go of societies rules. Jody Hedlund writes stories that gets into the heart and sole of the reader. This is sure to be a best seller!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
The Runaway Bride #2 of The Bride Ships by Jody Hedlund is a wonderful book. Arabella Lawrence is one of the women from the Bride Ship who has run away from an abusive situation. When she arrives in British Columbia there are plenty of men who would like to wed her but two men stand out. One is Lieutenant Richard Drummond, a gentleman in the navy and the other is Peter Kelly, the town baker. As she comes to know each man she discovers their differences in treatment and beliefs. When making a choice will it be the right one?
A story rich in history and well researched. Ms. Hedlund writing is a joy to read. This series is full of excitement and romance. I can’t wait to read more of this series.
I received this book from Jody Hedlund/Bethany House Publishers/NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
I so appreciate every book I have read by Jody Hedlund. She writes from impeccable research and infuses heart into her stories.
Arabella Lawrence has fled a bad match in England so she has to carefully consider the two men who become her suitors when she lands in Victoria, British Columbia. Will Lt. Drummond sway her with his position in society or will Baker Peter Kelly charm her with his caring heart?
Ms. Hedlund takes us on a journey to Vancouver Island in 1862 to a place where men abound and marriageable women are scarce. It was interesting to find out that England had lost a great amount of eligible men to emigration and war and therefore women were in abundance. The author also gives us insight into the way Canada handled interactions with the native population and the smallpox epidemic.
We see Arabella start to break free from the stigma of her circumstances and look into the characters of her suitors. We also see how Pete relies on God and grows in his faith to overcome past temptations.
Ms. Hedlund tells a believable story and engages us in Arabella and Pete’s plight with a good dose of faith, a little humor and some very romantic scenes.
I enjoyed this book about an upperclass English woman seeking a new life in a new land.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
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.
“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.
This book was amazing! Not only do we get to see more of Mercy from book one, we get to learn Arabella’s story. I loved the concept of a bride ship. I really loved Arabella and Pete! And don’t get me started on their chemistry and those kisses! You almost need your own fan when reading those parts. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series! I definitely recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Ladies, grab your fans! The smoldering looks, and the near kisses are sure to keep you holding your breath as butterflies dance in your stomach, you may just find yourself reaching for your fan along with Arabella! I loved this story and these characters. Especially our hero Peter. He is my new favorite literary hero!
Arabella’s back story had me both sad and angry. Sad, for the hurt she must have felt at the seeming disregard her father had for her safety and angry at the man who hurt her. Of course, I realize that her story is something that happened all too often during that time. The blatant lack of regard that society, in general, had toward women is jarring to our modern sensibilities. Yes, even today, in many parts of the world women are still treated as if they can not make their own decisions and lead their own lives. While not perfect, the status women hold today in American society has vastly improved. It is easy to take for granted the blessings we have!
Along with the romance and historical details, this story tackles some tough issues. Arabella deals with physical abuse and through the eyes of our main characters, we come face-to-face with the awful injustice and racial prejudice that the natives of British Columbia endured when overtaken by the English Colonists. Our hero’s soft heart and willingness to make a difference in the lives of the native people is one more reason to love him.
I love this story, and I’m looking forward to reading the next two books in this series. This is a book you will want for your keeper shelf. To be able to pull it out and enjoy it again anytime you wish!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
I am always a fan of this author. I would pick up any book she writes and read it. This book did not disappoint. I had all the emotions as I read it. At one point I was even brought to tears. We met the character Arabella in the first book of this series. Her story was a mystery to us. But no more. And what a story she has. It was great to see the character growth with her and the baker Pete through the book. They matured and learned a lot. Lieutenant Drummond was a man with a grudge. And it plays out with the characters growth. It’s nice to see a city as it’s taking off with a population growth. I have to mention these women actually did this in history. I can not imagine the emotions they went through as they boarded a boat for a new land without family with them. The author has done a great job in giving us a glimpse of what it was like for them. I was so happy to see Mercy back from Book 1. Definitely recommend this book. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated here are my own.
When I started this historical romance, I wasn’t sure how well the pairing of upper class Arabella with working class Peter would work. In fact, when Peter first appeared on the page, I wasn’t sure what I thought of him. He’s a bit brash and very sure of himself, but in just a while, he won me over with his desire to see the natives treated fairly in the midst of a smallpox outbreak – one that was brought on by the very people oppressing them. His unswerving faith in Arabella to make it on her own made him very endearing as well. Though some of Arabella’s uncertainty bugged me a bit, for the most part, it rings true, as the idea of such a drastic lifestyle change would be hard to accept at first.
One thing that I always appreciate in a Hedlund novel is that while it’s almost always a very romantic story, there is always an intriguing historical event taking place. In this case, it’s twofold. First is the story of what would drive a wealthy woman to make a drastic decision of leaving her pampered lifestyle to marry a complete stranger, as well as the Royal Navy’s treatment of the indigenous people of Victoria. Hedlund also makes sure to make note of what was true and what is fictional license in her author’s note, and I always feel like I learn a bit when reading one of her novels.
I found The Runaway Bride to be a fun and interesting read. I love how characters from the previous book played a small role in this story, and I’m glad there are two more books to come in this series. I’m really looking forward to the next book, as Abe was one of my favorite side characters in this novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review; these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
A clean read. Sometimes you must change your situation in order to learn who you really are & what you want. A story of stepping “out of the expected” to find security, self worth & a person who loves you as you are.
The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund
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REVIEW:
I only have one word: WOW
If you have been following me for awhile, you know how much I love any Jody Hedlund book. The Runaway Bride is book two in The Bride Ships series. This series is probably my favorite series of all time! I was not able to put this book down. Jody is my favorite author. This story is sweet, compelling, and thoroughly enjoyable. The story follows Arabella Lawrence and Peter Kelly. Arabella has recently gotten off of a bride ship. Running away from a marriage she did not want, anything to do with, she isn’t going to give her heart to just anyone.
Once Arabella arrives she has two men vying for her affections the second she steps off of the boat. Should she choose Lieutenant Richard Drummond or the town’s baker, Peter Kelly with her heart? This is definitely in my top five favorite books of all time. I did not want it to ever end! Peter and Arabella are one of my absolute favorite book couples. This was a five star read! I wish I could give it more stars.
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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?
I wish Bookbub would give half stars because I would definitely give it 4.5. I’m a big fan of Jody’s books and this was no exception. I very much enjoyed the chemistry between Pete and Arabella, it was practically swoon worthy. I swear if one more character interrupted a romantic scene I was going to scream (in the best way possible). I found myself smiling and savoring the moment when that epic moment between Pete and Arabella finally happened.
The only reason I am not giving it 5 stars is because it took me at least half of the book to like Arabella. I keep rooting for her to just take the leap of faith but time and time again she was restrained by her upbringing and concern for societal rules. Pete on the other hand….well I liked him from the moment he appeared on the page.
I have recently started reading The Bride Ships series and after the first book I couldn’t wait to start this one. It was even more swoony then the first book, which I didn’t think was possible. Pete is incredibly charming and while his personality might come off as arrogant at times, he just had this charm that really was a cover for his humility and good heart. His flirting with Arabella was so good! I loved how he sought to win her over, but always wanted it to be her choice.
The book is a clean read, with many Christian themes, and stellar romance! Definitely looking forward to reading more by this author.
The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund
•
REVIEW:
I only have one word: WOW
If you have been following me for awhile, you know how much I love any Jody Hedlund book. The Runaway Bride is book two in The Bride Ships series. This series is probably my favorite series of all time! I was not able to put this book down. Jody is my favorite author. This story is sweet, compelling, and thoroughly enjoyable. The story follows Arabella Lawrence and Peter Kelly. Arabella has recently gotten off of a bride ship. Running away from a marriage she did not want, anything to do with, she isn’t going to give her heart to just anyone.
Once Arabella arrives she has two men vying for her affections the second she steps off of the boat. Should she choose Lieutenant Richard Drummond or the town’s baker, Peter Kelly with her heart? This is definitely in my top five favorite books of all time. I did not want it to ever end! Peter and Arabella are one of my absolute favorite book couples. This was a five star read! I wish I could give it more stars.
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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?
Runaway Bride: Bride Ships Series, Book 2
author: Jody Hedlund Narrator: Esther Wane
If you like believable historic novels, you truly want to read this story (and this series). It is a clean historical novel, a story of seeking safety in a time when women were often treated with less value/respect than cattle. This is Arabella’s story. Her back story of why and how she was on the ship and her story in British Columbia. I shed some tears and shared some smiles with the characters in this story. This story can be read as a stand-alone. This is a worthy read and this is my honest review. Happy Reading ! !
Note: Arabella is also a featured character in book 1 The Reluctant Bride which spans the ship’s voyage from Britain to British Columbia.
Note: I had to wait my turn to download this audiobook from my state library. It was worth the wait. Now to get on the waitlist for the next book (the estimate is a 15 week wait).
I liked The Runaway Bride more than the first book. Arabella and Peter’s developing relationship was an easy escape from reality. I’ve always been interested by mail-order brides or bride ships and what motivated women to participate, whether it was stemming from desperation or adventure. In this case, Arabella fled England and an unwanted abusive marriage. I’m a sucker for history and haven’t read much about England’s other attempts at colonization outside of the U.S. The peek into British Columbia was fascinating.
Zoe travels to British Columbia on a bride-ship and finds it a challenge to figure out just where she belongs and to whom she should marry. When she thinks she’s asking a pastor to marry her, she finds herself married to the pastor and not the man she was asking him to marry her too. Action, suspense, delightful children and characters that warmed my heart and some who I cheered against!
I requested this book through NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. My review is voluntary.