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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As soon as we were introduced to Arabella in the first book I was eagerly anticipating her story.
But you guys……. nothing prepared me for how wonderful this story is!
Jody Hedlund has outdone herself! This second installment of the Bride ship series is even better than the first!
Arabella is a character that you can’t help but root for. She is wounded by her past, but watching her grow and become strong is just an amazing story.
Pete is a fantastic hero! He is confident, funny and the absolute perfect character to help Arabella. Normally the flirty, outgoing type of heroes are not my favorite, but Pete has this magnetic optimistic outlook that is practically contagious!
I loved how the author wove these two opposite personality types together and had them grow in their individual struggles and their faith.
This positively swoon worthy romance is blended with historical detail and a inspirational message.
This is everything I look for in a historical romance.
I could just gush forever, definitely not to be missed for fans of historical romance!
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher. All my comments and opinions are completely my own.
“The Runaway Bride” is the second book in the Bride Ships series. I think the books are connected enough that it would be beneficial to read them in order. The first book is Mercy Wilkins’ story, but Arabella Lawrence is introduced to us. This book is Arabella’s story, but Mercy still plays a role in it. I was glad to be able to get Arabella’s story and why she was on the Bride Ship. I found the book to be well written and with a strong biblical thread. The characters grew and changed throughout the book. There were unexpected twists that surprised me. It was frustrating the control that some people used to be able to hold over other people simply because of their station at birth. I look forward to reading more books in this series and by Jody Hedlund.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
News Flash: another great book by Jody Hedlund!!! I was excited to receive this book as I did read the first book of this series. I just broke my arm so I had all the time in the world to devour this story.
Was Arabella a runaway bride? Or was she finally stepping up and making decisions for herself? She was put in a terrible position by her father and his boss. Was there anyway she could do to save herself and her father’s situation?
Isabella was reminded that she was not alone. GOD was by her side. He was her strength. He gave her the courage to do what is right. She had strong women in her life that reminded her of GOD’s love for her and her well being.
Peter was trying to fulfill his dreams. He had regrets about his past. He asked for forgiveness and GOD was with him in his weak moments. He was reminded by Father Abe how GOD was there for him in good times and bad.
We all need spiritual advisors in our lives.
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” (vv. 9-10).
– Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
I loved the story. It had romance and valuable lessons thrown in. GOD is by our side at all times. We must pray to him and ask for his guidance in our lives.
It’s 1862 and Arabella Lawrence’s only escape from an ill-matched marriage is to board the Tynemouth – a ship heading to British Colombia. Only, this ship is filled with women wishing to seek marriage to the plethora of available men on Vancouver Island.
With red-brown hair, Arabella hopes to catch the attention of a gentlemen from the upper echelons of society as she feels she is not as accomplished as others. A good marriage will place her well in society. Whilst she has a past to hide, thoughts of how she left her family plague her mind. Her step-mother’s training on how a young woman should behave allows the pretty young woman to push intrusive thoughts aside.
Pete Kelly – led a wayward life of a miner before finding his way back on to the path that God had chosen for him. Regretting the way he left England and missing his father, he restarts his life. He’s also keen to marry and sneaks aboard the bride ship when it docks. Pete is lucky he’s the town’s baker otherwise he’d never be allowed to mix with ‘proper’ gentleman.
A chance encounter with the baker and a proper introduction to one Lieutenant Drummond begins the dance of which man will win Arabella’s heart. The handsome soldier treats her to picnics, dances, dinners and croquet. Pete, teases, flirts and teaches her how to bake.
Upon discovering a native child ferreting in the bins, it is only a matter of time before she fully learns of the horrendous outbreak of chickenpox among the indigenous people of British Columbia. Torn between what is expected of her and what brings her joy, Arabella is soon in the midst of a situation that will be either be her downfall or the making of her. Should Arabella throw society’s rules out and do something that makes her truly happy or should she remain submissive and become the lady she was trained to become?
What a well thought out, intricate and emotional story. Hedlund’s characters are rich with life and the sympathetic telling of the cruelty against American Indians is heart-wrenching. The burgeoning relationship between Pete and Arabella is fueled with emotion as well as highlighting the differences of class and status that still had a bearing in the new world.
With unsung hero’s such as Mrs. Moresby – part of the welcoming committee for the women from the bride ship – Blind Billy, Dodge (Pete’s bake house partners) and Pastor Abe, the story is packed with colorful characters, humor, sadness and snippets of God’s teachings throughout .
Already a fan of the Orphan Train series, the Bride Ship series sets to be another outstanding collection. Hedlund is able to weave a tale of romance and faith without it being overbearing or indeed preachy. As read, I laughed, tears came to my eyes, anger simmered. It’s a story that brings awareness of the chickenpox outbreak, the ruthlessness of the Royal Navy and the simple kindness that humans can and should show each regardless of race, gender or ethnicity. A highly recommended read for fans of historical and Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers as part of the Launch Team. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.
The Runaway Bride, by Jody Hedlund, is an exciting tale. Arabella Lawrence is a wealthy woman, just past her bloom, who feels like she must flee her home, after the elderly man, who is her fiance, physically abuses her. In the hopes to find an appropriate man to wed, Arabella is soon on a bride ship heading to Canada!
Soon after Arabella arrives at Vancouver Island, she encounters two men who may be the possibility. One is Lieutenant Richard Drummond, who checks all the boxes of being an outstanding gentleman, and the other is Peter Kelly, the baker in town, who seems to draw out much of Arabella’s high spirits. Watch as Arabella must decide which man is truly the one for her!
Arabella struggles for awhile with the thought that in this new land, she is free to give up the rules of old England and instead pursue the place where her heart and dreams lead her. It is interesting to see the transformation that occurs in Arabella and discover which finally claims her heart!
The final pages of this book will bring a great reunion for one of the main characters!
I so enjoyed this book! Not only is there a fantastic romance but it contains much historical information that makes me want to learn more about this time in history in beautiful British Columbia.
This is the second in the Bride Ship series by Jody Hedlund but it can he read alone. Unlike the first book, which follows one of the lower class woman, this book follows Arabella Lawrence, a daughter of a wealthy banker and a true lady used to servants and a life of ease. While I knew from the first book she had come on the ship with painful scars, in this book we learn the truth of those scars and the events that prompted her escape on this ship.
Unlike the last book, which primarily took place on the ship as the women ventured to British Columbia, this book follows Arabella after she arrives in her new home. As a woman in the higher classes, Arabella expects to be sought after by some of the gentleman in the community, and she is! Handsome Lieutenant Drummond, one if the top officers stationed in British Columbia takes a quick interest in Arabella. He treats her well and accompanies her to all the events in the colony.
Understandably, when the ship first arrives, Arabella feels a bit overwhelmed. This is a Bride ship after all and there will be 10 men to every 1 woman in this British colony (hence the need for ships like these). Arabella, needing a respite and courage, flees to the dining room to give herself a pep talk. Here she encounters Peter Kelly (who quite enjoys her talk) the town baker and recently reformed Christian.
While Arabella believes Peter is unsuitable for her as a suitor due to his lower class standing he soon becomes a friend and opens her mind and heart to a different way of living, one which Arabella comes to appreciate. When she encounters a native girl in need of help, Pete is who she turns to. Pete is a charismatic and blunt man who decides from his first meeting with Arabella she is the one for him! Despite their class differences, his good heart and willingness to help all around him draws Arabella in. But could she really turn away from her upbringing and live without servants and higher class comforts?
This is a fantastic novel that not only has a enjoyable romance but provides many historical details of this time in British Columbia, especially the colonists interactions with the natives and the spread of small pox. Now I want to plan a trip here to see the beauty and learn more about this wonderful location! I cannot wait for the next books in this series which will be released in the coming months.
*I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher and Netgalley for an honest review. This review is my own.
This is the second book in this series that I have read, and they can be read separately. They are both really good!
When the facts unfold as to why the wealthy Arabella fled England and embarked to the unknown wilds of British Columbia, you will cringe. I had to wonder how long she would have survived if she had stayed?
We also meet the kind hearted baker Peter Kelly and the Navy Lieutenant Drummond, whom I had a bad feeling about.
Loved the compassion showed by some to the Natives, especially the starving little girls.
Will Arabella end up with finding true love, or will she end up with wealth? Will there be justice here for all, keep reading!
I Received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.
I’ve never read Jody Hedlund before, and didn’t know much about the bride ships. This book was as enjoyable as it was interesting. Recommended for any lovers of historical fiction or historical romance.
The Runaway Bride is one of those books that hooked me right away. This is book 2 in Jody Hedlund’s Bride Ship series and while you can read this one on its own, you may want to consider reading the first book in the series, The Reluctant Bride. Both of these books are very good. I have been waiting for this book because I wanted to read more about Arabella, who was introduced in The Reluctant Bride. I have lived in the inland Pacific Northwest all of my life yet never knew about the bride ships from England until I started this series.
Arabella is a lady who escaped the conventions of her class when she boarded the ship for a life unknown waiting in British Columbia. She only knew it had to be better than what she left behind. Once on board, she put the future on hold until that final day when she left the ship to face her new surroundings. Imagine her surprise when she and the other brides disembarked and found the shore lined with men gaping and ogling at them. This was nothing like England. Her lodgings were beneath anything she had been exposed to at home. She no longer had the comfort of her trusted servant Hayward, who cared for her since the death of her mother. It was Hayward who saw Mr. Major for what he was and firmly put Arabella on that ship so she would be free from a deadly match. She landed with both feet on the ground and though she was on that bride ship, she wasn’t sure she was truly ready for marriage. Her thoughts lead her down a path full of self doubt that was carefully crafted by people who didn’t have her best interests at heart. Conventions, thought processes and the false idea that she was not good at anything. All wrong.
It took just one look at her to capture the hearts of two very different men. Dashing Lieutenant Drummond, who could offer her the lifestyle she was accustomed to in England. Peter Kelly, handsome and bold, a self made man set on his goals. Both set their sights on Arabella but only won would win her hand in marriage. But in this new world, filled with possibilities, this young woman began to learn that many things were open to her that were denied back home. She began to see the things with new eyes and once granted the opportunity to become her own person, things shifted for her. It was good to see how she grew from the timid girl who shrank from notice to the woman who could make things happen.
I enjoy historical fiction, especially if it leads me to look for more beyond the story. Jody Hedlund made this story come alive. Her research, as always, is thorough and she engages her readers in part because of this. The characters are complex and believable.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. My opinions, however, are my own. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a twist of romance.
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.
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.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund. Although it is the second book in her Bride Ships series, it can be read as a stand alone novel. I have not yet had the opportunity to read Book One and I was able to follow this storyline very well.
Arabella is a well written character, driven by secret circumstances to employ a Bride ship passage to British Columbia in pursuit of a new start and hopefully, love.
A beautiful and poised woman like Arabella, in a man’s land soon finds herself with not just one suitor, but two! Lieutenant Richard Drummond is everything she has dreamed of-handsome, prestigious, a gentleman. Peter Kelly is a humble baker with a hidden past, but he stirs her heart and challenges her to be a better person. As she struggles to make a choice, she finds herself drawn into the plight of a native child who has smallpox. Will she do the right thing and choose the right man? Will she take a stand for the natives who have been treated unfairly?
You don’t want to miss out on this beautiful story. I couldn’t put it down. Jody Hedlund has a gift for making historical places and figures come alive. The hero in this story is one of the most swoon-worthy fictional characters I have ever read about.
The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund is the second book in her Bride Ship series. Loved this story. You meet Arabella, Lt. Drummond, Pete.
Arabella a young woman of wealthy status has decided to join a bride ship to get away from a marriage set on her. British Columbia in a time when social class status was at its most.
Pete a town baker who is not of a high status but has his own buisness and fear of God. A character that I fell in love with him from the start. Now, Lt. Drummond not my type and although more of Arabella’s status but not her type.
I always enjoy reading about this era and history events that are not too well known about. Jody captured my attention with this story with great characters, events that happened in time with God’s message in every turn of page.
This story of how to trust in God when social status puts us in doubt of things and ourselves. But both Arabella and Pete come to trust each other more when they get together to help someone in need. Putting aside what people would say and the standards that are given to both. Only to wonder if this too will end up in a wrong decision or happily ever after even though putting themselves in danger.
Really enjoyed this story. Hope I made it justice with my review. But I guarantee you won’t be disappointed and highly recommend.
Received a copy of the book by the author for my own personal sincere opinion of it.
Thank you Jody for sharing this story with us.
I can always count on Jody Hedlund for a beautifully written story filled with colorful, realistically flawed characters that come alive on the page. The Runaway Bride is no exception. Set in British Columbia in 1862, this tale is rich with the history of the British Bride Ships that carried women from Great Britain bound for marriage to the plentiful men living in Victoria. Arabella Lawrence finds herself with two very different suitors from contrasting walks of life. Lt. Drummond is a gentleman who is esteemed in society, while Peter Kelly is a baker who has built up a good business in the community. I absolutely adored Peter. His personality, confidence, and wit are so attractive and add much color to the story. I loved his compassion, courage, and the way he stood up for the underprivileged, and especially the native people. The relationship between Arabella and Peter was charming and fun and I enjoyed seeing it grow and develop.
Hedlund is a master at weaving uplifting messages into her stories. Themes of hope, optimism, courage, faith, and forgiveness are predominant in this tale and give it added dimension and depth. I’m always interested in the historical aspects of this author’s books, as it’s apparent that much research has gone into the writing of the stories. I would recommend this to those who enjoy historical romance. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers/NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book captured my attention from start to finish! I really loved the characters in the story. I enjoyed reading about Arabella and her growth as she finds courage in the New World. Her compassionate heart as she leaves behind her comforts and plunges into helping others is truly admirable. I liked Peter too, a feeling that grew as he came to Arabella’s rescue and tried to do the right thing despite the consequences. Their relationship has the perfect amount of romance and passion without being too graphic. I loved the spiritual truths of trusting God and repenting from the sins of your past to instead follow His leading, even when it is difficult to do so. The plot had enough twists and turns to keep it interesting throughout the entire story and I found it hard to put down! I have really enjoyed this series and look forward eagerly to the next book! I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
How Far Must She Run? Desperate to leave 1860’s England, Arabella boarded a bride ship bound for British Columbia. Since women there were outnumbered ten to one, bride-hunting men flocked to the ship as soon as it arrived. When Richard, an eligible naval officer, took an interest in Arabella, she immediately became panicked by her inability to know a man’s true character.
Peter, a confident baker, impudent and forthright, introduced himself to Arabella. Although nice, he is part of a class that would have been inappropriate to associate with back home, and would still raise many eyebrows in the new world.
Additionally, she often spots a man from England who means to harm her. Will she be able to avoid him and stay safe?
By being kind to a sick child and indulging in a favorite pastime, she finds herself embroiled in situations that causes talk, and might make polite society look down on her. Between that, and a habit she has of blurting out things that can result in harm to herself or others, she may be forced into an undesirable situation to save someone. Will she end up repeating her past, with no escape this time?
This gripping story has lots of riveting aspects including characters who relied on God’s help to get them through it, and enhanced the tale. I recommend this 5-star book to those who enjoy historical or well-written fiction.
Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, The Runaway Bride, for the purpose of review.
The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund surpassed my expectations. I started reading Arabella’s story and I could not put it down. Yes, I stayed up too late and read it all in one very long sitting. From the beginning, I rooted for Pete and Arabella to get together. The chemistry between the two of them rated as steamy without being inappropriate.
Aside from the amazing romantic tension, The Runaway Bride boasts a swoon-worthy male lead, character development, and occasional well-placed humor. Pete Kelly is an imperfect man, but he’s also compassionate, devoted, and encouraging. For all his statements about not being a gentleman, he displays respect and patience with Arabella and others. He genuinely struggles with some tough issues and, like Arabella, he has lessons to learn. Watching Arabella’s transition from being a bit of a snob to finding joy and fulfillment in her work was a pleasure. Her character development was completely different than Pete’s, yet still admirable. In short, I loved this book and wish I had the time to give it a second read right now, but I’ll have to wait on that.
The Runaway Bride stands as the second installment in The Bride Ships series by Jody Hedlund. While it’s written as a stand-alone, I recommend reading the books in order as Mercy, the main character in A Reluctant Bride, plays an active role in The Runaway Bride. I’m looking forward to the next installment in this series. Five stars for The Runaway Bride!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund
What a wonderful story! Arabella came from a upper middle class family in London. Being considered a spinster, at the age of 25 and because of circumstances beyond her control. She had to get away. With the help of her beloved servant, she found herself on the Tynemouth, a brideship bound for Vancouver Island. This story was riveting! So many twist and turns it kept you anticipating each new chapter. The characters were captivating and your heart yearned for them. I could not put it down. The witty banter, history, romance, having faith and courage in God was perfectly intertwined! I have not yet read the 1st ( the reluctant bride ) in the series. I have it on my TBR list. This is definitely a stand-alone book, but I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!!
Jody Hedlund’s second book in The Bride Ships series is the type of romantic historical fiction that I love. While learning about history, I watched a relationship develop which taught the individuals about life, themselves and true love. From the beginning of this story, I liked these two main characters. As they faced struggles and learned lessons, I came to like them even more. They both displayed true compassion for those who were overlooked and underprivileged. At the same time, a romance developed that was just as exciting as the adventures they faced. With lessons about family, faith and forgiveness, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I can always tell that book 2 in a series is good, when I want to go back and read book 1 again and just can’t wait for book 3! Of course, The Runaway Bride can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
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!