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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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.” (Jamesu202c u202d1:6u202c u202dNLTu202cu202c) 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 Haywood 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.
The perfect mix
Wonderfully written. From beautiful British Columbian scenery to moving and inspirational scenes played by her endearing characters. The perfect mix of information, inspiration, and romance. Can’t help getting caught up in the lives of these people and what they had to go through. Definitely recommend.
Overall Rating: 5 stars
Story Rating: 5 stars
Narrator-Esther Wane: 5 stars
I had an ebook copy of this book and I purchased the narration from Audible.
My thoughts about this book:
• A loved the story between a man and a woman from different classes. A wealthy woman that ran away from an arranged marriage and a kind baker.
• I was intrigued by the premise of a bride ship headed to Vancouver.
• I liked the relationship of caring that Peter and Arabella had with each other. I felt their caring for each other throughout the book. They were people I easily became attached to.
• How much baggage do we carry with us in life? Do we unconsciously drag it along life’s pathway hindering our forward progression? These were questions I pondered as I read this book. I like books that make me think.
• The descriptions of locations and emotions were well done and easy to visualize. I felt a part of the scenes.
• The author writes with an easy-to-follow prose that guides the reader without confusion.
• There were some religious overtones in this book, but it was a natural part of the characters’ lives. This book was not preachy.
• This story was well edited.
• This was a clean read.
• The narrator did an exceptional job and brought this story to life.
I enjoyed this book very much and I highly recommend it. It is a unique romance and I think you’ll enjoy it. I plan to read more books by this author.
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?
This was a book about choices. Does Arabella think she is above marrying a baker who is below her station or should she try for the Lieutenant who is a gentleman. She is already running away from an arranged marriage. There was also the issue of propriety when Pete and Arabella were alone. Christian standards were expressed. This was a good clean book and I recommend it.
I was given this book by Bethany House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
The Runaway Bride is specifically Arabella’s story although we get to check in a bit with our heroine from book 1 as well. This lady of good-breeding has a conflicted heart of gold beneath her pampered facade. Her struggle between doing the expected thing and doing the right thing resonated with me as she sought faith, truth, and (dare she hope for?) love.
Personally, I was smitten with Irish baker Peter Kelly from the moment he graced the page with his wit, charm, and irresistible brogue but I’ll not attempt to sway readers from gentleman officer Lieutenant Richard Drummond’s camp. Watching these two fellas duke it out over Arabella’s affections is part of what makes this story so appealing.
This story challenged me to consider how much I would be willing to sacrifice in the pursuit of justice for others and perhaps in defiance of those in authority. While the answer may appear to be a simple one in hindsight, the realities and consequences of going against the grain are enough to convince most to turn a blind eye to injustices suffered by others.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Anything Jody Hedlund writes is worth reading. ALWAYS.
The Runaway Bride
The Bride Ships #2
By Jody Hedlund
Arabella Lawson is fleeing the life that she knew and the marriage she doesn’t want. The Bride Ships offer her the chance at a new life away from the pain and fears of the past. But can she find the life she seeks – one to which she is accustomed to or will she be forced to accept the first offer of marriage that comes her way?
Pete Kelly has regrets but he is no longer the young man who left his family behind in anger all those years ago. He is a changed man and he credits this change of heart to the Lord and natives who saved his life. Pete is determined to get a wife from one of the ladies who has come over on the bride ship. When he sees Arabella he knows that she is the one for him even though he is of a lower class. Unfortunately, he isn’t the only suitor seeking Arabella’s hand and the man seeking it is someone Pete has had conflicts with in the past.
The Runaway Bride is the second book in the Bride Ships series and while it can be read as a stand-alone title, it is best read as part of a series. The main characters from the first book A Reluctant Bride are secondary characters whose story is more fully developed. This book deals with prejudice against the indigenous peoples who called the area home, against lower classes, and women’s abilities and rights. The setting is Vancouver Island in Canada in 1862 with brief flashbacks to Arabella’s life in England.
I like how Arabella slowly changes and in several cases the catalyst to change is her care and concern for others. Her biggest obstacle to change is her desire to reclaim her place as a gentlewoman of society. Overall a good and satisfying read perfect for fans of historical fiction who don’t want just fluff. Jody Hedlund’s fans won’t be disappointed in her newest offering and will be waiting for this summer’s release of the next book in the series. A perfect book club selection.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Wow! This book is so good. It is the second book in the Bride Ships series but can be read as a stand-alone.
The series follows young women who left their homes in England to become brides to men in British Columbia. This book is Arabella’s story. She ran from home when abused by her intended. He was a much older man who went through several wives. Arabella does not want to become the next victim of a horrible man. He holds employment over her father’s head to see that the match is completed. Arabella really has no other option than to run as far and as fast as she can.
She is courted by two very different men. Lieutenant Drummond is everything she thinks she wants. He can sustain the life of luxury that she has grown accustomed to. He would provide every opportunity that she left behind. Peter Kelly is a force to be reckoned with. He is charming, attractive, kind, and attentive. But he is a baker and cannot provide her lifestyle. He is also reformed. He has not lived a life free from vice but has found that faith is more important to him than lifestyle mistakes. He is a very authentic character who is not perfect but trying to do good. (I bet you can tell whom I hope wins Arabella in the end.)
This book brought to my attention the plight of the natives living in Canada. Their story is much like that of those who lived farther to the south in the United States. The white men brought sickness and destruction to them. They were persecuted and driven from their homes. The compassion that both Arabella and Peter showed to them was heartwarming. If they were real people I would definitely want to be friends with them.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
This book is Christian fiction, it also contains passionate kissing and non-graphic violence.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund which features a wealthy young woman who fled for her life to escape marriage to an abusive older man. Fearing for her life she boarded a bride ship to British Columbia where she joined other women with hopes of a better future. With two vastly different men wooing her, Arabella felt immediate attraction to the one least suited to a woman of her standing but no sparks with the one she thinks she should marry. Time revealed the true character of both men and Arabella’s choices became more clear.
Arabella was a very likeable character. Although raised with every thing she could ever desire, she managed to adapt to a different lifestyle where she learned to enjoy serving others rather than being served. Her compassionate heart endeared her especially to the town baker who decided to marry her at their first meeting. Peter was a charmer and quite forward for the times yet he too had a heart filled with compassion for others. Lieutenant Richard Drummond was a gentleman on the surface but his perfect veneer hid a scheming heart.
Runaway Bride is an enchanting and fun to read tale that made me want to read all night. The plot moved along at a steady pace with a few surprises along the way. I highly recommend it to all lovers of historical fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required.All views expressed are my own.
Another author that has yet to disappoint, great book
As much as I enjoyed the first book in this series, it’s no small thing to say that I enjoyed this one even more. I loved Arabella, with her wounded heart and lack of confidence, her desire to measure up, and her tender heart. I loved Pete, too–not just because of his sense of humor which kept me laughing but for the ways that he supported Arabella, from their first interaction, and helped her to believe in her own capabilities. I loved how he advocated for others, even when it meant he’d suffer the consequences. I also really liked the historical setting for the book and getting a glimpse at the interactions between members of different classes and different races, with the varied reactions. I particularly enjoyed Arabella learning to set aside social expectations and truly look at the people around her and at her own heart. With fantastic characters, great chemistry, and an engaging plot, this book was a pleasure to read! I can’t wait for the next book!
The Runaway Bride is another wonderful inspirational historical romance by Jody Hedlund. It is the second book in The Bride Ships series and definitely worth reading if you love Christian historical romances.
Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship trying to escape her past mistakes and now finds herself struggling to prevent another possible mistake when two different men begin competing for her hand in marriage.
When she finds a starving young orphan girl, she does everything she can to care for and protect her and in doing so begins to overcome her fears from her past and how that will best influence her making the right decisions for her future even being honest about how she has come to love Peter Kelly.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more books in this wonderful series!
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Jody Hedlund, one of Christian Fiction’s most outstanding authors, once again pens another enthralling romance. The Runaway Bride, Jody Hedlund’s second novel in her Bride Ship Series, kept me spellbound and reading late into the night. This beautiful, riveting story also encouraged my spirit and bolstered my faith.
Arabella Lawrence is a true gentlewoman. Upon her arrival in British Columbia, she disembarks the Tynemouth bride ship, leaving behind a pain riddled past. She longs for a hope-filled future filled with love, a family, and security. Peter Kelly, a man ransomed by God’s all sufficient grace has a past filled with pain and regret. His mentor and friend, Pastor Abe, is his confidant. Pete’s compassion, concern, and relationship with the natives is a testament to how the Lord is working in his life, changing his heart. With God’s help, he longs to find a wife. Lieutenant Richard Drummond, a distinguished naval officer in the Queen’s Royal Navy from Victoria’s prominent society, is also seeking a beautiful and refined bride. He offers every luxury and security. Who will woo Arabella patiently yet ardently and capture her heart? Will Arabella release her fears, discover her courage, and embrace God’s plans for her life?
I loved reading this book! It captured my interest even before the first chapter ended. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters of Arabella and Pete. I love that Arabella finds her courage and Pete is now one of my favorite heroes crafted by the author. The faith elements were strong in this story, and they greatly inspired my heart. I enjoyed the romance in this story, too. There was a pleasurable sizzle between Arabella and Pete. It was tender and lovely!
The Runaway Bride was a wonderful read! Readers will not be disappointed. I look forward to reading the next two books in the series! Be carried away by this story, it will do your heart good!
I am grateful to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy of this book. I was not obligated or expected to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are solely my own.
Absolutely a beautiful read, The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund! There where moments of, How could you, Jody? And moments of tears and a few laughs! Filled with history and story!
What a story! I loved the meetcute between Arabella and Peter. It was such a cute way for them to meet and their developing relationship throughout the book kept me guessing as to how it would all play out in the end. I really enjoyed getting to see Arabella again and learning more of her backstory after meeting her in The Reluctant Bride, and Peter was quite a character. I really liked him. The story was full of twists and I had trouble putting the book down at times because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. If you like historical Christian fiction then give this one a try.
I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
This is the second installment in The Bride Ships Series and it was so good! Easily read as a standalone; this well researched novel is about a woman, Arabella, who left London for a more promising future in British Columbia. In the 1860’s ships would transport women full of hope and longing to secure a future with respectable and responsible men.
Arabella meets two men on the journey; one of whom is instantly likeable. In the midst of romantic dilemmas, there’s also a smallpox outbreak to contend with.
Jody Hedlund is an excellent author and creates plots and characters that are both engaging and interesting. This series has introduced a previously unknown historical tidbit to me. It’s an enjoyable read. Hedlund also includes a helpful Author’s Note at the end which gives further explanation about Bride Ships and the characters. Be sure to read it as it enhances the story.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. All opinions are my own. @bethanyhousefiction [email protected] @bethanyhousepublishers Jody Hedlund #therunawaybride #thebrideships #bookstagram
Have you read any of Jody Hedlund’s books yet? If you haven’t do yourself a favor and do so, she has so many available and they are all fabulous . Recently she’s also released a YA fantasy series and it’s a not to miss as well.
The cover of this book is really stunning and I was so excited to start into it. We’ve all heard of mail order brides, well these are ship brides, which I found so fascinating to learn more about as I read the first book in the series as well.
I can just imagine what the ladies had to be going through that signed up to go on the ships to be a bride, it was not just the poor working class ladies either, there were ladies of means that signed up too. I can say it was probably an adventure for all of them and hopefully in a good way.
The romance is sweet and tender and two men are vying for our Arabella’s hand. Now being a lady of means she is expected to marry within the same class as herself but love doesn’t always, or maybe I should say hardly ever follows the rules.
The plot was a fun read and held my interest the whole way through.
It was fun to meet up with what felt like old friends, characters from the first book and be introduced to new characters as well. I wonder which will appear in the third book in the series. Learning about the smallpox outbreak was interesting as well. It took so many lives.
I don’t believe it’s presumptions to say this book will stay up there with my favorites for the year.
Pub Date 03 Mar 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
It is impossible for me to put into words how much I love this book. Jody Hedlund never writes anything less than five stars. In “The Runaway Bride,” the author has found a new way to address the age old question of whether to marry for love or social class. The characters one is supposed to love, are easy to love. The characters that one should dislike, are easy to dislike. Arabella Lawrence’s journey to a new life is a reminder that, although it can be helpful to leave a harmful past, it is equally important not to repeat its mistakes. And, last but not least, that you should not shut out every possibility for future happiness based on past disappointments. I highly recommend this book!!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book through the publisher and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund grabbed by attention from the very first page. I have not yet had the opportunity to read The Reluctant Bride (I have moved it to the top of my pile). I was glad that The Runaway Bride could be read as a standalone. I thought the story was well-written with realistic, developed characters. Arabella Lawrence has left England for a new life in British Columbia. She fled England before her wedding to Mr. Major. The match was arranged between her father and Mr. Major. The man was old enough to be Arabella’s grandfather and his other wives only lived a couple of years after they were wed. Arabella has had rigid rules drilled into her by a nasty stepmother. She arrives in British Columbia on a bride ship and hopes to make an advantageous match that suits her position. Lt. Richard Drummond is among the dignitaries greeting the ship and he is instantly taken with Arabella. Peter Kelly, the local baker, meets Arabella the same day and knows she is the woman he wants to marry. Two very different men with differing belief systems vying for Arabella’s attention. Peter Kelly is a charmer from the very beginning. I can see why Arabella was taken with him. I could feel Arabella’s mind versus heart dilemma. She knows she should marry someone of her social station, but Arabella is attracted to Pete. She also feels she can talk to him and that he likes her despite her flaws. The author showed the contrast between the two men as well as how society would perceive Arabella if she did not do as expected of her. I thought Jody Hedlund captured the time period and how it felt to arrive in a new country on a bride ship. These women had no idea what the area would be like or what type of men would be waiting for them. I liked that none of the women were forced to marry. They were allowed to take their time in finding the right life partner. The author’s vivid descriptions brought the story alive for me. I could visualize the scenery and the characters. I felt I was in the canoe with Arabella as she saw the wildlife and traversed along the water to the native’s village. Included in the story is a little girl who needs help. Smallpox has infected the natives, and many were worried it would claim those in Victoria. There are those who wished to help the natives and others who wanted to drive them away. Why Arabella fled England is revealed a little bit at a time. I do want to let readers know there is violence which will make you cringe. My favorite phrase from The Runaway Bride is “If we’re living rightly before God and pleasing Him, then that’s all that matters.” Christian values were beautifully incorporate into the story. It is an integral part of The Runaway Bride. I stayed up very late to finish this moving historical novel. I am looking forward to reading the other books in The Bride Ships series. The Runaway Bride is a touching story with a beguiling baker, fierce frays, a shocking sickness, rapid rumors, a spiteful soldier, and beautiful brides.
A wonderful tale of a woman finding her way when everything is stacked against her. Arabella gets the opportunity to tell her story after arriving in BC. Bound by societal expectations and propriety, she wrestles against what she knows in her heart and what she knows in her mind. I truly enjoyed journeying with her to recognize the strong woman she is despite some deep heart hurts and fears. The addition of the smallpox outbreak added a nice element of struggle and of characters being further developed based on their response. The two men vying for Arabella’s attention added a healthy dose of romance. Reading the first book in the series is not required to enjoy this one, but it is nice to see some familiar characters again. I received a complimentary copy of this book and all opinions expressed are solely my own.