The fascinating premise of dozens of poor London women leaving behind all they know and setting sail for British Columbia, where potential husbands await them, is based on true events of the 1860s. It is always exciting when a favorite author begins a brand new series, don’t you think? This time it’s Jody Hedlund who has released the first installment of a new story from Bethany House Publishers, entitled “A Reluctant Bride” – book number one in “The Bride Ships” series.

Posted in Book Reviews, Christian Historical Fiction | Tagged A Bride of Convenience, Adoption, British Columbia, Christian Historical Fiction, Christian Romance, Faith, Fiance, Hope, Jody Hedlund, Marriage, Marriage of Convenience, Natives, New Beginning, Orphan, Pastor, Relationships, The Bride Ship series, Wilderness | Leave a comment Reluctantly they are shoved together when an orphaned baby is left in their care, but are they willing to alter their entire futures when caring for the baby leaves them no choice but to marry someone they hardly know? Continue reading →

“A Bride of Convenience” tells the story of Zoe Hart, who left England on a bride ship bound for British Columbia, and pastor Abe Merivale who has lived in the rugged land for several years. Her newest installment in “The Bride Ships” series from Bethany House, “A Bride of Convenience”, does not disappoint! I can say that it seems like the author did a good job of researching and found an interesting story I didn't know about (that the children's aide society helped place female workers out west) and the story line would have been good if the length of the book was cut in half and the characters were more fully developed than described.I can always count on Jody Hedlund to deliver a compelling story that is filled with a memorable romance, a unique peek into history, and a plot that sweeps readers away. I didn't finish the book and don't care how it ends. And I hate the romance formula where someone is hiding how they really feel to simply move the story along. I hate it when authors are always telling me how the character feels instead of showing me. The story is really a romance and an irritating one at that. I made it 11 chapters into the book and there is a woman that goes west on a train through the children's aide society, but she's 19 and going for a job. I didn't listen to a sample before I bought the book since I love all things orphan train.big mistake.

I don't like to give negative reviews, but I'm so frustrated that I wasted a credit on this book that I can't help it.

With you always by jody hedlund