I enjoyed the historical side of this book. You can tell the author did a lot of research. It is set mostly in Boston while the United States was trying to free itself from British rule. I enjoyed the cameo appearances from the Washingtons, Ben Franklin, Paul Revere, and the many women who worked behind the scenes. This particular story is about a fictional figure named Faith who helped in many ways, including passing and coding messages the the Patriots.
It wasn’t my favorite in the series because I found it to be a bit on the slow side for me.
The romance was sweet and clean. It is Christian and has some praying and scripture passages.
I received this advanced copy from Barbour Books through Net Gallery for my honest opinion and review.

The Patriot Bride, written by Kimberley Woodhouse, is by far my favorite so far of this series.
Loved how Woodhouse brought George Washington and Ben Franklin to life! I've not read another fiction book which took these historical figures to this level to flesh them out in such a way I just couldn't stop reading!
Faith was a strong woman who I admired. Stood up for what and who she believed in and no one ever wondered where they stood with her. Great character!
I would recommend this read along with the others in this series, but this is my favorite.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.

This is a remarkable historical romance!

I love both of the main characters. Faith is an incredibly strong woman. She has learned how to survive without a man in charge of her household because of her strength. She knows how to lead and she expects those around her to follow her instructions. She helps immensely in the difficult situations that she faces during the beginning of the war.

Matthew is everything you can ask for in a hero in a book. He is strong, handsome, and very dedicated to his beliefs and doing all that he can to support the cause. Throw in there the fact that he is always willing to protect Faith is just perfect.

The storyline is captivating. I was drawn into it and anxious to find out how things turn out for Faith and Matthew. It was a nice fictional story built into the history of the Revolutionary War. Seeing George Washington and Benjamin Franklin brought into the story and interacting with Faith and Matthew was wonderful.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the author’s note at the end of the book to see what she had to say about the use of actual historical characters in her book. It was great to read her thoughts and see a glimpse into how she views history.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion.

I am creating an award titled "Best Butler of the Century" and it is going to the esteemed Clayton of The Patriot Bride. That man deserves his own book. Clayton is a friend, protector, patriot, and butler all rolled into one. While he is not necessarily a main character, he is vital to the story, and I love the mystery that surrounds him throughout the entire book. All the characters reached a special place in my heart, but for some reason, Clayton dug even deeper.
The Patriot Bride takes place during one of the most influential times in our history, and I was swept away by the intensity of research that went into this novel. Reading about George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and so many others made me want to crack open a history book and learn more about these pivotal men in our history. I love when a fictional story has just enough truth in it to make it become real. The story of Matthew and Faith is something that very well could have happened. Their faith was inspiring from the beginning, and they only continued to grow in spiritual strength. Matthew and Faith put their very lives on the line for their beliefs, both of them knowing that capture could possibly mean death. Death was a punishment they were willing to face if it meant they could help their country win the war. Knowing they would be safe in their Father's arms gave the characters of The Patriot Bride the strength to do what they must.
Since we read from the perspective of several characters, the book comes alive from every aspect. The fact that communication took so long to reach its destination brings the gravity of the critical situation into an entirely new perspective. Only God could have coordinated such a masterful scenario of perfect conclusion. My only regret was that we do not learn the final fate of the pompous Mr. Jameson. What we are given is enough, but I would not have minded had he suffered a bit more. I had to cheer for Faith when she refused to back down. There are no weak women in The Patriot Bride, every one you meet will show a strength of character that was much needed then and a role model for what is needed now.

This is book #4 in the Daughters of the Mayflower series which are written by a variety of talented authors. I’ve enjoyed them all. Each of these stories can be read as a standalone. This story takes place 1774 near Boston and Philadelphia areas as the nation is on the brink of war.

I enjoyed the authors enthusiasm about history and the discoveries she shares with readers in the back of the book. I was quite fascinated to learn what she uncovered and how she debunked some myths about George Washington and Paul Revere.

Faith Jackson is a smart, feisty, independent, opinionated woman who has had her share of unfortunate events. But with friends like George Washington in her corner since childhood she felt hopeful and safe. She was a brave girl with tomboyish outspoken ways. So, when the Patriots asked for her help in the cause she signed up and a group of ladies she trusted signed up with her. It was intriguing to learn what all these women did to help the cause. Faith then takes it one step further and signs up to becomes a spy. She was the logical choice since she had no husband and no children. she says to her group, …” Ladies, it is imperative that we keep everything we speak of here only amongst ourselves.…I have a suggestion. I think we should start memorizing more scripture. To help us through the tough times ahead and to keep our minds trained…We must be vigilant in how we plan and what we say. Everything must have a purpose and a reason in case we are questioned.”

Faith’s contact turns out to be Matthew Weber. It’s the first time they’ve met but they’ve heard about one another through their connection with George Washington. Sparks fly in a good way as they both embark on this dangerous mission.

I enjoyed the cast of minor characters and loved what her butler Clayton said to this man, “Mr. Jameson, while I am sure we are all impressed with your fervor, Mrs. Faith Jackson offered you no invitation to this home. Now if you will kindly remove yourself before I have to do it for you.”

Faith states plainly, “…let me assure you one last time. I am not playing games. Nor do I wish to speak to you ever again. Good day.”

She tries to act lady like. But things do escalate with this man Tension was in the air on both sides as they rally in preparation for war and Anthony Jameson sets out on a full out campaign to make Faith his wife one way or another. This puts everyone in danger.

I loved learning about history this way and have enjoyed all the novels in this series. Book number 6 is scheduled to release in December. It’s titled The Liberty Bride by Marylu Tyndall. I’ve marked my calendar to make sure I don’t miss the next installment.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher/Netgalley. 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 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine https://www.bookfun.org/page/past-issues-book-fun-mag

Having only read one of the other books in this series, I appreciate that the books can definitely stand alone without needing additional backstory.

This book follows the adventures of Faith, a widow and friend of George Washington, during a time of great turmoil and political turmoil in the Colonies, just prior to the birth of a new nation. Faith is an independent woman leading Bible studies and a group of ladies as they assist the Patriot leaders in passing along secrets. As Faith meets with her contact, her emotions are kindled and she contemplates a new relationship.

Overall, I would give the book a 4 star - truthfully some of the “yearning” got a bit old after awhile. There’s a fine line when writing romance on overdoing the verbiage and making it almost overly sweet. Was he looking at the same stars? Her heart ached...tingles down her spine...etc. There were a few plot points that were a little harder to believe toward the end, but otherwise it was an enjoyable read.

Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour for allowing me an advanced copy of the book.

The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse is a marvellous Christian historical novel. It is the fourth book in The Daughters Of The Mayflower series but can be read as a stand-alone.
This novel surrounds the battle for independence. It opens in 1752 but quickly jumps to 1774 as we follow the action, Loyalists and Patriots are everywhere. People choose whether to support the king or are they for independence? There are spies in the midst, infiltrating life everywhere. There is the theme of trust as no one knows who the betrayers are, with spies and double dealings.
The women are shown to be strong and brave. "You were the one who taught me to follow my instincts and not let anyone think less of me because I was a woman." The women do what they can to support the cause. Unwanted attention towards a young widow from a hopeful suitor creates much amusement for the reader as the women conspire to thwart his attentions.
The fight for freedom from the crown is only half the story. To gain real freedom, we need to know Jesus and follow His rules for our lives. "The only way they'd gain freedom was if they followed Him." We need to fix our eyes on Jesus and trust Him.
The Patriot Bride is based on fact. Kimberley Woodhouse has woven a fabulous story. She has put legs on historical details and characters. George Washington is no longer just a character in a painting but has been created as a fully rounded and likable character.
The Patriot Bride will educate you as you read. It is an exciting page turner that will have you glued from the start.
I received this book for free from Barbour publishing on Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

I enjoyed the book and the historical facts. I liked the storyline a lot. I definitely would recommend this book. I am enjoying this series!

A spunky, feisty main female character, a dashing young spy, and two great historical figures, Benjamin Franklin and George Washington, makes for another great installment in this great historical series.

Faith was my favourite female character of the series so far. I enjoyed her personality and could see her annoyance with the irritating mr Jameson. There was quite a few scenes that had me smiling/laughing as well.

The story line of the Revolutionary war was very interesting and the secret meetings between Faith and Matthew added to a bit of a suspenseful thread as you as reader wondered what would happen and if they will get caught. The evil Mr Jameson was a different flavour to a bad guy. Sometimes I just had to laugh at his thinking. I was quite happy at the way George dealt with this problem.

What I really like about this author (this is the second book I have read by her) is the way she makes faith (relationship with God) and integral part of her main characters' lives and includes scripture in a way that flows with the story but does not come across as preachy.

Definitely a book and series to recommend to fans of Christian historical fiction.

Faith Lytton: "I'm an orphan now, aren't I."
George Washington: "No. You are a child of our heavenly Father, so you are never truly an orphan. And don't forget… you have me."

The Patriot Bride (2018, Barbour) is the fourth book in the multi-author Daughters of the Mayflower series. This story is a historical Christian romance by Kimberly Woodhouse set during the Revolutionary War. The prologue is in 1752 Virginia, then the story jumps to 1774 in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. The novel is standalone, linked to the earlier books only by the Lytton family tree. Faith's great-great-great grandparents are the hero and heroine of the first book in this series, "The MayFlower Bride" (see my review). I've been requesting each book in this series from NetGalley because two of my favorite authors are featured.

Rating: 3.5 stars

The hero: Matthew Weber, a thirty-six year-old Patriot is a close friend of Benjamin Franklin. He is working with Ben and other Patriots by playing "the part of the Loyalist. He needed to entrench himself among the enemy...He was a spy."

The heroine: Faith Lytton grew up with George Washington as her best friend and closest neighbor. In the prologue, they are ten and twenty years old, respectively. At this point in time, Faith loses her parents, Benjamin and Patience Lytton, in a fire. George becomes her guardian, "responsible for her well-being. For managing her estate until she was old enough to inherit" at twenty-one. George relocates her to Boston to stay with "trusted friends" there, because half of her manor house was burned, and Faith is too frightened to remain there. Fast forward twenty-two years, and Faith Lytton Jackson is thirty-two years old, and has been a widow for twelve years after the briefest of marriages. She's a Patriot, working with some other ladies to help the cause in whatever way they can. Faith volunteers to accept an assignment to pass information back and forth between the Patriots and Matthew Weber. So Faith is a spy as well.

Historical background from this book:

"Parliament passed the Intolerable Acts - laws denying constitutional rights, natural rights, and colonial charters to Massachusetts. Fear this denial of basic rights would spread through all the Colonies had pushed many in America to the point of revolution...The taxations were getting out of hand and many of the colonists were tired of being ruled by a monarchy across the ocean and paying the debts of England through their taxes.

Christian elements: This story contains brief prayers, speaking about God, and passages from the Bible right in the story, which I love. I think the author does a great job with this, and I noted that in The Mayflower Bride as well.

*For readers who do not appreciate alcohol in their Christian fiction, there is a brief mention of Ben and Matthew having a drink: "But I think we need a drink to have this discussion." I don't remember whether this occurs more than once. I think it can be argued that this is historically accurate for the time. That's how I view it, and they do not get drunk.

Is it clean/chaste? Certainly!

What I liked:

*I love how Ms. Woodhouse portrayed Benjamin Franklin and George Washington, who are secondary characters in the story. Often authors don't want to do this at the risk of inaccurately portraying historical figures, but I think it's great that she took the plunge. Ms. Woodhouse did a great job of naturally incorporating historical facts into the story...such as Ben Franklin's penchant for air baths. (Hoo, boy!)

What I didn’t like:

*Before the story, Ms. Woodhouse states, "For your ease of reading, I've written the majority of the manuscript in modern English with just a few hints here and there of colonial expressions to help create a sense of the time period." I am of the opinion that if an author gives fair warning that the word usage is too modern, I can give that a pass. So I will just list it as a dislike due to my personal preference, because I think it's a legitimate approach to storytelling.

*I think the hero and heroine definitely have a case of instalove. I just do not see the love happening between them, and that it is a case of telling rather than showing. I thought the historical bits and the overarching story were well done, but the relationship between Matthew and Faith just doesn't feel authentic to me. There were a couple of scenes with the couple that started to convince me, but for the most part, I felt this way throughout the book.

*I didn't really love the villain. I understand why he was placed in the story, but I guess I would have liked to have seen it done a bit differently. (I made the same comment about "The Mayflower Bride").

***********

The bottom line: This was an enjoyable Christian historical fiction. Or you can view it as an enjoyable Christian historical romance if you don't have a problem rolling with characters falling in love quickly. I recommend this book to people who enjoy a well-researched Christian fiction novel or to fans of novels set during the Revolutionary War. Due to the instalove in both books I've read by this author, I'm not going to be adding another to my ro-read shelf. However, if I get my hands on a multi-author collection that includes one of her stories, I will certainly read it on the strength of her historical research and skilled blending of Bible verses within the text.

This was a wonderful story!
It's my first book from Kimberley Woodhouse and I want to read more of her books!
I love historical stories and this one was very well done. I liked that it involved real historical characters like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, William Franklin, etc. I have no idea about the accuracy of the historical part, but it sounded adequate and well researched.
I loved how the book started as young Faith becomes orphaned after a fire at her house, and her friendship (even if he was 10 yrs older) con George Washington and how she becomes his ward even when he's only 20 yrs old. The story continues many years later as Faith Jackson is a wealthy widow and supports the patriot cause. She promotes helping the cause within her circle of friends. But when a dangerous task of taking messages to a spy on the loyalist trench surges, she know she's the one to take on the responsability, even if her life might be at risk... Meeting Matthew Webber, also a spy for the cause, complicates things, especially when feelings start growing and her hearts opens up to the hope of loving again. But is it possible or worth it to love in times of war? Will they make it out of every lurking danger unscathed?
The story keps your attention from the first page. The adventure, the drama and the suspense will keep you captivated. The romance is clean and sweet. And the characters feel real and relatable, full of rich qualities, but flawed at the same time. They were both corageous, strong, selfless and compassionate. And I liked how they trusted God and their faith along the way to guide them through such difficult circumstances. It was uplifting and inspiring!
I totally recommend this book to historical romance lovers. A must read! I really enjoyed it!
I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley but wasn't required to review. This is my honest and unbiased review.

I’m a big fan of historical fiction and this book didn’t disappoint. Great read with fantastic characters and a good story line. Kept my interest and it was hard to put down. I definitely recommend this read!

This is the 4th book in the "Brides" series. I've read several of the other titles and enjoyed them all. It is unusual to have a series of books where each one is written by a different author, all tied together with the same historical themes. I find it much easier to read stories set in the United States.
Set in the early 1770's, the main characters in this book are working within a group to secure freedom for the United States. What would you have done when called upon to help your country? The author has set the story in a realistic manner with believable characters. This makes the book a very enjoyable read.

Faith Lytton Jackson cannot abide a bully, whether it's an older boy or the King of England. As a wealthy widow and former ward of George Washington, she dedicates time and effort to the Patriot cause. When leaders of the Patriots propose that a woman deliver messages to the spy placed in the Loyalist ranks, Faith volunteers for the dangerous mission. The spunk and bravery she has possessed since childhood aid her as she embarks on nighttime meetings to deliver coded messages. Upon meeting Matthew Weber, the Patriot spy within the Loyalist ranks, she is drawn to him and eagerly awaits each meeting. Attraction buds between Faith and Matthew, but as war looms, it is an inopportune time for love. Read more in The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse.

The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse is the fourth installment in the Daughters of the Mayflowers series. It is a stand-alone novel that can be read completely independent of the other novels.

I struggled to finish The Patriot Bride. It wasn't for lack of action and suspense. The plot clipped along nicely and danger lurked constantly. I liked Faith. She was feisty, brave, and intensely loyal. However, there wasn't much character development – nothing about her as a person really changed from beginning to end. The plot was more about the events that occurred around and to her – carrying messages for the Patriot cause, dealing with an unwanted suitor, daydreaming about Matthew, etc. Speaking of Faith and Matthew, I think the story would have benefited from more development of their romantic relationship as it seemed overshadowed by the pre-war hostilities, Matthew's relationship with Benjamin Franklin, and Faith's relationship with George Washington.

Quite possibly my favorite part of this book was on page 81. Faith discusses Psalm 136 with a group of ladies and says, “The end of each phrase is the same – like an answer to a difficult question, the answer will always be the same. His mercy endureth forever.” What a wonderful perspective on that Psalm! For every question or difficulty, His mercy endureth forever, is the answer! I would have enjoyed seeing this theme fleshed out in the story.

The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse threads history and fiction together to create a story set on the eve of the Revolutionary War. Although, I won't read it again, this book may appeal to history lovers as it does contain lots of history and fictionalized versions of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook courtesy of netgalley and the publisher. 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 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Super interesting plot line kept me interested and reading late into the night. A little suspense, war, love, friendship, political drama makes for a good story. The story is well written with well developed characters. Pace of reading is good. Not too slow! Definitely keeps your interest. I’m really enjoying this series. Don’t miss it!
I received a copy of this book from netgalley and the publisher. This has in no way influenced my review. All thoughts are my own.

I really enjoy historical fiction, but sometimes it can be a hit or miss for me. I've been following and reading this series from the first book, the author for this book also wrote Book #1, and have enjoyed them. I will admit that the first book had me a little overwhelmed with a lot of the historical aspects of it. Not that I didn't enjoy the storyline and learning more but I had a hard time connecting with the characters throughout the story. Knowing this was the same author, I wasn't sure what I was going to think about this one. I will admit that I enjoyed this one more than the first book. I'll also admit that I did skim through different parts of the book. My time was limited for reading and so to be able to enjoy all of the book, I skimmed parts that were a little bit slower in the storyline.

From the very beginning I enjoyed Faith's character. She was for sure a little spitfire and that personality trait carried on throughout her life giving her great strength and fortitude to accomplish the different challenges life presented her. I really enjoyed her character and personality throughout the book. She was a great example to many of the secondary characters. Definitely a character I would have fun sitting down and chatting with, or even sneaking out and carrying notes around to help the Patriots. I loved her relationship with George Washington and how that was shown throughout the book, the friendship and letters were fun to read.

Matthew was another character that I enjoyed. I couldn't imagine doing what he did. I know this is a fictional story with fictional characters but it is based on history and the people who were spies and risked their lives for freedom, and for their family and country's freedom, I am so grateful for them and admire their bravery, strength and courage. The author did a great job portraying those people in the character of Matthew. I liked seeing his internal struggle knowing the sacrifices he was making.

There is a crazy character in this book. Oh, how I loathed him. Yet, I felt that the author did a good job showing this character's belief that he was right in his mind. Of course as readers we saw the opposite. There were times that I kept thinking of Mr. Collins from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. How he says to Elizabeth Bennett that her 'no' actually was just her being coy and shy and that she really meant, 'yes'. Anyone else think that while reading this book. Now, Mr. Collins is a lot calmer and less creepy than the character in this book but that little aspect is what made me think of him.

Overall I enjoyed this read and the historical aspects of it. The cameos of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin were fun. Benjamin Franklin especially when he was in disguise. Plus I liked the reference that author made to Silence Dogood. Too funny. It definitely made me want to go do some more studying of these two men!

Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. A stalker type character. A few kisses but nothing further. This is a Christian fiction novel, for those who don't like reading a lot of scripture passages and discussion of God in their books, this one had quite a bit within the pages. The author has Faith's character quoting several of the Psalms and discussing it with ladies in her group. I think if you're interested in this book but not that aspect of it, you could easily pass over those sections and not lose the storyline. There was a little more than I usually enjoy in my books but I enjoyed the novel.

I received a copy from the publisher, Barbour Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

This is the second book I have read from Kimberley Woodhouse and I am completely hooked. I love her writing style . She keeps my attention throughout the books and makes me fall completely in love with the characters. I also am really enjoying the Daughters of the Mayflower Bride series. Each book is unique and can be read as stand alone. The Patriot Bride is 4th in this series.
Faith Jackson worked to aid the Patriot cause. She took quite the risk. I loved this character with her feisty spirit. There were a couple times I just couldn’t stop laughing as I read some of the situations she got herself into.
Matthew Weber also risked his life for the Patriot cause. He worked as a spy which meant that he was taking a chance of getting killed by either side. If captured by the Patriot’s, he could not reveal his role as a spy. And if the loyalists caught him, they would not hesitate to have him hung and quartered. It brought a new understanding to me of all the Patriot’s risked in order to gain our independence. The stakes were so much higher than I realized.
I loved how Kimberley Woodhouse brought to life facts about the war that I had not known before. I was entertained while also learning more about history. The Patriot Bride was a fun book to read and has me seeking more books by Kimberley Woodhouse. I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Review has been posted on Goodreads, CBD, and Amazon

THE PATRIOT BRIDE by KIMBERLEY WOODHOUSE is a historical novel which takes place in the three years leading up to the American Declaration of Independence.
Faith Jackson is an independent, capable, widow, who has long since given up the idea of remarrying, as she feels any suitors are only after her wealth. This is certainly the case with the pompous and irritating Anthony Jameson who will not take no for an answer! Many is the time that her faithful butler, Clayton, has to help her get rid of him.
Faith has a really good circle of lady friends who meet often and who read the Word of God together. They are all Patriots and are working for the cause. Faith volunteers to pass on notes to another spy, Matthew Weber, who is actually posing as a Loyalist. The reason she volunteers is that she has neither husband nor children to put in danger's way. What they are doing is extremely dangerous.
The story is very exciting, filled with historical characters and events, and it is obvious that the author loves history and has done a great deal of research. There is also a good dose of romance. I particularly like the way Faith bases her life on biblical truth, in spite of all the hardships she has experienced.
It is a good and interesting read with a strong Christian message.
I was given a free copy of the book by Barbour Publishing Inc from NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.u

This one took me a while to plow through, in all honesty. I didn't feel very connected to either of the characters, and the stakes didn't feel as high as they were made out to be, but the book finishes strong (around 3/4 of the way through) with some sweet moments between the two characters. There are several interesting references to events during the early years of the of the Revolution, and I was intrigued by her characterization of George Washington and Ben Franklin. I don't think I ever realized before just how... eccentric Ben Franklin was. He made me laugh a few times. 

I've never read anything by Kimberly Woodhouse before, so this was a first for me. She put a lot of attention to detail into the timing of the events, and wove more scripture and historical quotations into her writing than I've seen in a while. This book will quite literally take you through the psalms. If you are in the market for a low-stress book (it's set during the Revolutionary War, but there is almost no physical conflict that comes up) that could almost be used as a devotional, this might be a great read for you.

I am a history nerd. I am also a sucker for a good, clean romance. So when an author puts the two together I can't resist. Kimberley Woodhouse doesn't disappoint in The Patriot Bride.

A great mix of fact and fiction. You will find yourself drawn to the characters and immersed in the setting. A thoroughly good read!