“Today she might meet the man she’d marry.”

Jody Hedlund’s second installment in her new Bride Ships series, The Runaway Bride, explores the relatively unknown history of poor and middle-class British women willingly boarding bride ships to seek a better life and to find husbands in British Columbia in the 1860s. The treatment of the natives during the smallpox epidemic of 1862 in Victoria is a part of history that may also be unknown to many readers and is very interesting to learn about in this novel.

In an effort to escape the pain of her past, wealthy Arabella Lawrence heads to British Columbia aboard one of the bride ships where she meets two very different suitors, Navy Lieutenant Richard Drummond and Peter Kelly, the poor town baker with a heart of gold.

Jody Hedlund creates delightful characters and allows their personalities to shine, especially with Arabella and Peter. Handsome baker Peter Kelly, with his charming personality and wonderful sense of humor, is a hero that readers will be rooting for.

Hedlund shares the powerful message of breaking free from society’s expectations and to discover God’s expectations and plans for us. Mrs. Moresby continues to be a beloved secondary character in this series with her mentoring Arabella as she struggles with decisions that will affect her life and the lives of those most important to her. The Runaway Bride is highly recommended for readers of inspirational historical fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

“Character is much more important than class.”

Jody Hedlund discovered a hidden gem when her research led her to the Tynemouth, widely known as the “bride ship”. This second book in the series tells us the story of Miss Lawrence who we were introduced to in the Reluctant Bride. The contrast between upper class and lower class remains a theme here, but from the opposite angle. Arabella is middle class intending to marry someone of similar station. In comes Lieutenant Drummond who fits the bill. But then there is Pete, a lower class baker. Who will Arabella choose? This is another historic romance that I really enjoyed. Can’t wait for book 3.

THE RUNAWAY BRIDE by JODY HEDLUND is the second book in her Bride Ships series, but it can easily be read as a stand alone.
When Arabella Lawrence arrives in Canada on the bride ship Tynemouth, a spinster of twenty five who has run away from an abusive man in England, she is determined to make a good impression. Although she is nervous, she feels that her marrying a gentleman and living a genteel life will make up for the way in which her choice not to marry the abusive Mr Major has affected her parents. She feels that Lieutenant Drummond could well be the gentleman that she has come all this way to find.
Peter Kelly, the baker, is great fun to be with, very encouraging, and, after repenting of his former sinful ways, has become a truly godly young man.
The scene is set, but I am not going to tell you any more, excepting to say it is a most enjoyable read with an interesting plot, great characters and a strong Christian message. It is a book I can highly recommend.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

In this second book of the Bride Ships series, Arabella escapes a marriage to a wealthy older man to Vancouver Island on one of the bride ships. This well researched book gives readers an inside look of why women boarded these ships as well as their lives when they arrived in Vancouver. Arabella, having been taught to marry well, will soon learn to look beyond wealth for a spouse. I like that the character Peter was likeable and realistic. Arabella and Peter complimented each other with their hearts for others. Highly recommended!

The Runaway Bride
I could not put this book down! The Runaway bride was the perfect addition to Jody Hedlund’s Brideship series! I was completely charmed by Pete! I thought this whole story was so unique and I loved the chemistry between the characters! I really enjoyed the bold faith that Pete embodied. He was a great example of redemption, but showed that he was human and faced temptations and struggles that kept him relying on God for strength. These characters came from different circumstances, however I loved that they struggled with things in their past that allowed them to identify with each other’s struggles. The love story between these characters was perfectly crafted and I really loved watching it unfold. I just absolutely loved this book! I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!

This story takes place shortly after where book 1 leaves off. The women from the Tynnemouth have arrived in BC and the courting begins!
In book 1 we were introduced to passenger Arabella Lawrence, a woman from British upper class, and the mysterious injuries she sustained before coming aboard. This is her story.
The time period covers the smallpox epidemic in British Columbia when it was still a British colony in the 1860s. Small pox had hit the native population and readers are introduced to the prejudices of the time and those who opposed the pre-conceived ideas.
This is a great story about breaking free from societal restrictions. Arabella is challenged by the suitors who show interest in winning her hand, but both are from very different worlds. The influence of her upbringing and expectations from back home bring an internal struggle that turns out to be downright frustrating at times. Arabella waffles between her choices and I found myself annoyed with how she dealt with certain circumstances. It is obvious to the reader that should she choose a certain suitor, she’d throw herself right back into a similar situation she ran from.
There’s much to love and dislike about both suitors, but I won’t spoil it for anyone reading this review. I was quite happy with the ending for both male characters.
Secondary characters play a huge role in this novel and once again, Mrs. Moresby is a gem. I hope to see more of her and Pastor Abe in future releases for this series.
The plot and characters were solid, but this book wasn’t as engaging for me as the first book. There’s a lot of sexual tension (well written), but it was a bit too much at times (again, totally my taste). HOWEVER, I understood the challenges our hero faced having had the conversion experience he did, so his struggle with this issue wasn’t so far off the mark as to be unrealistic.
Another job well done, Ms. Hedlund.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

“Perhaps forgiveness took the greatest courage of all” is one of the many fabulous quotes contained within the pages of The Runaway Bride, Book Two in the Bride Ships series. Author Jody Hedlund’s research and writing talent take you on a journey that will keep pages turning. Some of the characters from Book One make an appearance like Arabella Lawrence, who is onboard the bride ship, Tynemouth. It seems Arabella is running away from an unbearable situation, and she’s hoping to find a husband who can offer the lifestyle she is accustomed to. Upon her arrival in Victoria, BC, Canada, she meets Lieutenant Richard Drummond, a royal naval officer. Then, she meets handsome, kind-hearted local baker, Peter Kelly, and can’t deny the attraction. Who will win her heart? Author Jody Hedlund has a flair for writing stories filled with inspiration and faith. I always look forward to her new releases. You won’t want to miss this series!
I receive a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. The opinions are my own.

Ms. Hedlund has done it again! She's written another page-turning story! I loved the story of Arabella, Pete, and Lieutenant Drummond. Ms. Hedlund does a wonderful job of developing the characters and setting. Additionally, this story is based on stories of actual bride ships, something I'd never heard of until reading this series. Read and enjoy learning about the struggles of being stuck in a certain class with so many expectations and how one woman's courage to break the barriers changes her life and the lives of so many of those around her.

I highly recommend this story for lovers of history and Christian fiction.

When I read A Reluctant Bride, the first book in The Bride Ships series, I knew that I needed to know more about Miss Lawrence, so it was thrilling for me to have the opportunity to read a complimentary advance copy through #NetGalley. Jody Hedlund did not disappoint. Although many of the women who boarded the bride ships to find a better life in British Columbia were leaving a life of poverty, some women were from the wealthier classes. This book provides a scenario to explain why a woman may have chosen to leave a life of privilege and to endure a dangerous voyage. When Arabella arrived in British Columbia, she quickly attracted the attentions of two very different men-- Lieutenant Drummond, a successful Navy man, and Peter Kelly, the local baker. I love the way the romance unfolds, and how Arabella's wounded soul begins to heal and gain courage. I also learned a lot about the area natives and the struggles they faced with disease and prejudice. This book is my favorite one so far this year, and I cannot wait for the third one in the series.

Jody Hedlund does an amazing job of setting the scene and drawing the reader into the story. In this case, she's taken a wealthy British socialite who fell into a difficult situation and thrown her into a rough and tumble area of the Pacific Northwest, along with several other women of various classes, on a bride ship. The whole purpose of these ladies' arrival is to marry the men who are in the area. A romantic triangle ensues, covering various classes and social stations, and ethical issues arise stemming from the Native American population. While the reader has the benefit of omniscience, it's very easy to see how confused our protagonist must be....until she isn't. It wasn't until the afterword that I realized this book was part of a series, which is a testament to how well it works as a stand alone novel!

The Runaway Bride is book 2 in The Bride Ships series by Jody Hedlund. Although we were introduced to Arabella Lawrence in book 1, A Reluctant Bride, this story can be read as a stand-a-lone.

When we “met” Arabella in A Reluctant Bride, we did not know much about her. All we really knew was that she was on the bride ship for some reason and that she had some interesting scars. In this book, we not only learn about her past, we also get a wonderful love story. I loved Arabella’s growth throughout her story as it felt very realistic.

There are so many good characters in this book, including some great secondary characters. But my favorite character, by far, is Peter. He is arrogantly confident, but somehow loveable at the same time. I think it’s his heart and sense of humor that really drew me to his character. He is the perfect match for Arabella no matter how hard she fights it!

I am really liking this series! There is so much actual history that influences the storylines and the setting is not one I’ve read often. Once you start reading this story, you don’t want to stop.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This second installment in the Bride Ships Series "The Runaway Bride" is a wonderful follow-up to "The Reluctant Bride" where we first met the runaway bride Arabella. Jody Hedlund gives us a glimpse inside the history of Vancouver Island around 1862 through this book and how social class influenced the decisions individuals of that time made. She also portrays the attitudes of the day towards Native Americans and the spread of smallpox throughout their communities from different character perspectives which is a good history lesson to us all.

In this book, Arabella flees would would be a disastrous marriage in England to go into an unknown future in British Columbia. She lands there and then is courted by two men upon her arrival, Lieutenant Drummond and Baker Peter Kelly. The two men could not be any different in how they live their lives and interact with those around them. She struggles between the expectations of who she should marry in light of how her step-mother in England raised her and taught her to think verses the hopes that the servant Hayward who raised her had for her future.

God's love shows through in this book as there is a lot about giving forgiveness and forgiving others. I pray that those that read this book enjoy the story as much as I did!

I loved the first book in this series with a passion, which always leaves high expectations for what follows. Honestly, I struggled a little to get into this story in the beginning. I hadn’t connected much depth of connection to Arabella in the first book and so it took time to make those empathetic connections. Pete is quickly likable and is quite the character.

As always I enjoy learning so much about little known history from the books that Jody Hedlund writes. This is her forte, and yet again she excels.

Sometimes I tire of the same thoughts being regurgitated and I realize that for Arabella she had preconceived ideas about who and how she would marry. Considering all of the past experiences she had had you would think she would have let them go a little easier than she does. I found it frustrating that she would realize how good life would be with Pete, or how free she feels or how much better she is being treated. Then in an attempt to draw the whole thing out, she’s returning back to the same old thoughts for why she can’t.

Overall, an enjoyable story that’s not to be missed. The Bride Ships series is a historical fiction read with strong romance elements.

Thanks to Netgalley for the eARC. This is my honest review.

What a heartfelt story!

Jody Hedlund has the gift of bringing together the most unlikely couple and creating the most endearing venture. More so, she lets these differences bring out the best in each other, such that their differences are only tools to make each other better. I won't forget this story so soon.

Arabella Lawrence has been trained on how to be a proper lady. She would surely agree "training" is all it was as there was no place for error, no place for imperfection or frailty. But there is a limit to which the body and soul can take demand until it breaks to never be repaired. Hence why a gentleman's daughter finds herself on a Brides ship to the untamed settlement land. There her shortcomings are only highlighted, but also, there is where she find the most unusual sense of purpose with the help of a skittish indigenous girl, an almost blind grumpy old man, and their beloved baker.

This book had me up late at night and getting grumping at anything that dared to bother my reading time. I am very much looking forward to Abe’s story!!

I liked Arabella from the brief amount we see her in The Reluctant Bride. Her story isn't fully exposed in the first book, but you know that someone has abused her which has caused her to run away. Yet I was hesitant to continue this series. Even though I liked The Reluctant Bride, the book wasn't what I would call romance-driven--which is my favorite type of read. However, this was definitely not an issue for The Runaway Bride.

Thankfully we don't follow the journey from England to Victoria in this book. Instead, The Runaway Bride picks up with the ship's arrival in Victoria. Arabella is immediately introduced to Lt. Drummond and then very shortly after introduced to Peter. Both set their sights upon her immediately upon introduction.

Before I even talk about Arabella, I have to express my absolute adoration for Peter Kelly's character. He can come off as really arrogant, but I think it's obvious that even as he's bragging about himself he's also making fun of himself at the same time. At least that's how it felt to me. He is confident for the most part. He's compassionate. I love how he had a past even though we don't get a ton of details about the actual events, I felt we were told enough for him to feel complex and well-rounded. He has a history with Drummond so even though he would pursue Arabella whether Drummond was interested in her or not, but their competition over every detail was both comical and at times realistic.

Arabella has to work through what she wants from her new life. She fled her home because she was being married off to a cruel man. So now that she's gotten away, she's trying to be extra careful with deciding who she will marry or if she has to marry at all. There were times when I didn't agree with or understand Arabella's decisions or thought process at all. But mostly she was easy to like and root for.

I very much appreciated the physical struggles Pete and Arabella had with trying to keep their relationship within the proper bounds. Pete has a history with women before he turned his life over to God so it makes sense that keeping things proper would be a greater temptation to him than perhaps others. Arabella was a little more of a struggle to me in this area. Only because I tend to get discouraged with people who pursue paths they know they shouldn't. Even though she didn't exceed any boundaries set by our current society's rules (shoot there's not much off-limits according to today's society), she did continually step outside of the bounds of propriety according to the cultural rules of the time. I couldn't fault her too much because when one has been without affection for so long, the craving is certainly hard to ignore and turn away once one has gotten a taste.

Favorite quotes:
-He was everything she'd ever needed but hadn't known until now. He treated her fairly without the condescension that many men used with women. He gave her opportunities to try new things, challenged her to do more than she believed she could, expected her to admit her mistakes, and allowed her to be herself without pretense.

-If God allowed those men [Job, Paul, etc] to face trials and tribulations, what made Pete think his life would be any different?

-...he could trust that God wasn't as concerned about giving him a happy life as He was about developing a holy heart.

While I did appreciate that there was a little steam to this (even though nothing inappropriate), I also loved the relationship building. The things that drew the characters to each other. Jody Hedlund did a great job with this story and these characters. Pete reminds me (some) of my husband which I loved. And I can't wait to continue the series. Although, I imagine it might be a little less steamy since Pastor Abe is the main male character. The Runaway Bride gets 4 Stars. Have you read The Runaway Bride? What did you think? Let me know!

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.

I love Jody Hedlund’s book and she has done a great job on this series! I had heard about mail-order brides in America but I hadn’t ever heard of bride ships from England to Canada. I thought this was a great view into history. I loved the romance between the two main characters and how patient Pete was with Arabella when he realized that someone had hurt her in the past. I thought Jody did a wonderful job of making the characters likable and of showing us a period in time that many of us may not be aware of. I look forward to reading the other books in this series.

The Runaway Bride
By Jody Hedlund
This is the second book of the Bride Ship series.
Fleeing an arranged marriage, socialite Arabella Lawrence joins a bride ship sailing to British Columbia. Arriving after a challenging journey Arabella is ready to choose her future on her own. Is she ready to put convention and expectations aside to live the life she desires?
Peter Kelly is busy turning his life around. He has a booming bread house but is missing something. With the recent arrival of the bride ship, Peter realizes he is ready to find a wife and start a family. After charming his way into the position of baker for the newly arrived brides will Peter be able to catch the heart of the upper-class beauty, he sets his heart on?
I found this book to be enjoyable to read. It was well written and the characters were easy to like. With romance, two suitors, and Indians there was enough excitement to keep my nose in this book. Through the characters' trials Hedlund sprinkled in faith-based wisdom that made this book all the better.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

*4.5 stars*
After devouring the first book in this series I've been impatiently awaiting the release of this one. Yet again, Jody Hedlund has penned an engaging read that the reader is sure to enjoy.

Arabella was a wonderful character. It was interesting to see the series continue with a leading character in very different circumstances from the first. She was born into privilege but found herself aboard the ship to due to desperate circumstances that was able to escape from. She was considered a higher class than many of the other women aboard the ship and while on her own she had to learn how to decide things for herself instead of listening to other around her. I felt that her growth as a character was very well written and it was easy for me to get inside her head and really root for her.

Both a pro and a con, this book read as more of a standalone than I was expecting. There were a few brief clips that mentioned other characters from the first book, but this ended up being more Arabella's story outside of the journey aboard the ship. I would have liked to see more female companionship with other women who were aboard with her, but I can also understand why it made sense for her growth to be more on her own. I'm curious to see what the next in the series will read like.

Peter Kelly? Oh, how I loved Peter Kelly. But I won't spoil him for you. You'll have to read about him for yourself. But his witty, fun personality made me love him and I'm sure others will feel the same way.

This was another one that I enjoyed and I look forward to continuing with the next one in the series :)

*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund is the second installment of The Bride Ships series, and it did not disappoint.

This time the author focuses on brides from a higher class, who chose to seek a husband across the sea. In this case, our main character, Arabella Lawrence, is running away from a cruel man she was supposed to marry. Old enough to be her grandfather and a despicable character, she flees to Canada, where she hopes no one will find her. By accident, she meets Peter Kelly, the town's baker. Someone, she reminds herself, that is totally beneath her station in life. She also meets Lieutenant Richard Drummond, a correct choice for her class, but not for a girl looking for love. Fortunately, Peter Kelly doesn't care about class distinctions and pursues her right from the start.

I loved the interaction between these characters. Peter was cocky, charming, compassionate towards the less fortunate, and determined to win Arabella. Arabella, on the other hand, was stuck in the rut of thinking she needed to marry someone of her "class." Slowly she starts to see how a class distinction isn't what matters, but rather the character and heart of a person. I loved how Peter wouldn't give up, despite how everything was stacked against him.

This was a delightful story, and I'm looking forward to book three. I highly recommend it.

I received this book courtesy of Bethany House, through NetGalley, for my honest opinion.

When wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship still wearing the scars of past mistakes, can she find her courage and her voice to stand for what is right?

An incredible story with unforgettable characters and exciting and thoughtful real-life roots, "The Runaway Bride" is a beautiful second installment to Jody Hedlund's Bride Ship series, filled with beautiful lessons in life, faith, and love.

I had high hopes for this novel after being offered a small sneak peek several months ago, and I'm thrilled to say my expectations were greatly exceeded by this true gem of a novel. Hedlund has truly outdone herself with this story and its characters. Pete is a charming yet humble hero (and is one of my new favorites of Hedlund's heroes), and Arabella is a truly inspirational heroine as she grows into her courage.

This story also offered an intriguing sneak peek into the next book's hero, and I absolutely cannot wait for the third and fourth novels in this series!

The Bride Ships series includes: "A Reluctant Bride" (now available), "The Runaway Bride" (March 3, 2020), "A Bride of Convenience" (June 30, 2020), and "Almost a Bride" (August 25, 2020).

Disclaimer: I received a free advance copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. I was not obligated to write a positive review.

“Today she might meet the man she’d marry. On the ship’s main deck, Arabella Lawrence stood absolutely still as a lady ought to do, even though the prospect of seeing her husband-to-be flustered her to a near faint.”- Opening lines of “The Runaway Bride” by Jody Hedlund

“The Runaway Bride” by Jody Hedlund is the next in the Bride Ships series which began with ”A Reluctant Bride”. Once again, a young woman has arrived in British Columbia to marry one of the eligible bachelors. Our leading lady is one of the characters we met in the first book, Arabella. Full of secrets, those around her try and unravel what in her past scares her. Looking for a fresh start, Arabella is determine to make the best of her new life.

Before Arabella even steps off the ship, she meets local baker Peter. The two quickly strike up a friendship and Peter is determined to win Arabella’s affections despite the other, far wealthier, suitors trying to catch her attention. Peter is compassionate and connected to the community. Horrified by the treatment of the native people during the smallpox outbreak, he persistently seeks justice for them.

Arabella doesn’t understand the political atmosphere she’s arrived in and instinctively helps a young, sick native girl taking her to Peter for guidance. Favourites from the first book, Mercy and the doctor, assist too. It sets off a chain reaction and Arabella’s world spins, challenging everything she believes about her role in society and God’s purpose for her life.

The characters are fabulously written, the story is fast-paced and challenging. Drawing on Biblical truths, Jody highlights the importance of empathy and compassion for those in our community. It’s full of fascinating history, it’s brought to life with beautiful writing.

I’m so looking forward to the next one in this series! If you love historical romance, this is one for you! It’s five out of five on the enjoy scale, I highly recommend it.

"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.

Arabella Lawrence takes the chance of a lifetime to find a new beginning in Canada, escaping a difficult situation.



Peter Kelly is a prodigal of sorts, making his living as a baker, and also fighting for the fair treatment of the Natives. He is smitten by Arabella from the moment he sees her, but will his past exclude him from vying for her hand?



A fantastic read from beginning to end, from Peter and Arabella who instantly captured my heart, with strong bonds of faith that bring the story together, this was well worth the read. I liked the realistic setting of British Columbia and how it showed the very real tensions between the military and the native peoples.



I admired Arabella's faith and how she grew, finding the courage to fight for herself. She is beautiful from the inside out, with a heart of compassion for others, she realistically struggles to reconcile the societal norms of her past with her brand new life.



Peter is an honorable man, who has made his mistakes in the past, but come to a saving faith that has changed his whole life. I admired how he makes a point to make intentional choices leading him away from the past. He is a brave advocate for those who cannot speak up, with a strong work ethic, and heart for others.



This book had some of my favorite supporting characters, from Mrs. Moresby, Blind Billy, Sque-is, Haiel-Wat, Pastor Abe, and finally Mercy. A compelling read from the very beginning, with excellent chemistry and romantic tension between Peter and Arabella.



Though part of a series, this book stands well on it's own, working more as a companion to the previous book in the series.



Overall, an engaging read that had me riveted to the page, fantastic characters, great tension, with a good use of flashbacks, and compelling journeys of faith for both Peter and Arabella. I think that the author did a fantastic job of handling both Arabella's and Peter's pasts in an honest, yet not too explicit way, that only added to my respect for both of them. Highly recommend this well written read!



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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.

I know I shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover, but one of the things that made me want to read this book (besides the fact that Jody’s books are always amazing) was the cover! I think it’s stunning and the story inside is just as amazing. Sadly, I read this book as a standalone because the first book (A Reluctant Bride) is in my TBR pile and I haven’t had a chance to read it (however, It’s now on the top of my list!)

I’m not very familiar with the history of the Bride ships, but I can only imagine how hard it would be to board a ship with a bunch of strangers, knowing your destination, but not knowing how your life will change once you get there. Some ladies went to find a husband, others were like Arabella and were running away or escaping from something. I really liked Arabella; however, I have to say that Pete was my favorite character. The one thing that was frustrating about Arabella was that she thought she was better then most of the others because, she came from a wealthy family and sadly, that thought process almost made her marry the wrong guy!

Pete; however, is a picture of God’s grace and mercy. He left his home and parents, and got involved in all the wrong things, and it wasn’t until God got his attention, that he finally turned his life around. I loved how selfless he was and how although he knew he was forgiven, he realized that he was by no means perfect and still struggled with things in his past. At first when he was talking to Arabella, he appeared over-confident and definitely proud, yet the more you read about him, the more you realize how kind and selfless he is.

My favorite part of this book was when Pete selflessly gave Arabella his father’s cross when she needed courage. I thought that was one of the sweetest moments I’ve ever read. Warning, this book is hard to put down – especially at the end. Seriously, it was so hard to stop reading and go to bed (or go to work).

Overall, this was a classic “love at first sight” story with a unexpected twist and I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars ****.

>>Special thanks to Jody Hedlund, Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley for letting me read and review this book – all opinions are my own.

Jody Hedlund’s The Runaway Bride is the next continuation of the Bride Ship Series. Women journey on what is known as bride ships to other places. Their lives while on and off the ship change their lives forever. In this second installment, I followed Arabella Lawrence as she escapes for a new life. She heads to a new town where being single attracts the local men. But Arabella is wanting to take caution so that past mistakes are not repeated. New environments, new people, and second chances for the characters are found in this entertaining tale. I loved Arabella’s courage as she faced her new life and the people she met. This novel was both heartfelt and charming to read. I was easily captured with the story and its characters.

The Runaway Bride is the second book in Jody Hedlund's Bride Ships series. It can be read as a stand alone, but Arabella is first introduced in the the first book and the heroine in book one has a supporting role in this book. It was a good read, so if you like to read a series in order I would recommend starting there even though it is not entirely necessary.

Book two begins shortly after the bride ship arrives in British Columbia. Set on Vancouver Island during the small pox epidemic of 1862, this story challenges the expectations of the day to marry within one's class. As one of the many women who boarded the bride ships in search of a better life; Hedlund's runaway bride must decide to either follow the social norms she has followed her whole life or risk everything on the chance that defying them will bring her greater fulfillment. In a new world where men outnumbered the women 10 to 1 she finds herself caught in the middle.

Jody Hedlund, once again, caught my attention by the end of the first chapter. I was excited to see what would happen next, however the story dropped off a bit for me in the next few chapters before it picked up again and became nearly impossible to put down. Pete was a swoon worthy hero and I enjoyed his humorous yet impossibly arrogant attitude. Jody excelled in describing the stunning Vancouver landscapes, I felt like I was riding alongside them in the canoe. Themes of forgiveness, healing, faith and courage were intricately woven throughout the pages. Jody Hedlund will always be an author I read without caring about the summary or book cover. She has proven over and over that when I pick up one of her novels, I am in for a delightful escape back in time that A Bride of Convenience. This book will tell Pastor Abe's story. I can hardly wait!

The Runaway Bride is currently available for purchase from your local or online book retailer.

Thank you Bethany House and Net Galley for the free advanced reader copy. The opinions expressed here are my own.

Arabella Lawrence flees London and her comfortable life because she has no other options. Penniless, she joins a bride ship headed for British Columbia in the company of other would-be-brides. The only future for a well-to-do woman involves marrying well and settling down to direct servants and raise children. Love may or may not happen in the course of the marriage.

As a spinster, Arabella feels that her chance for a love match has passed her by. And she will settle for anyone. Well, just about anyone. After her precipitous flight from the alter in London, she has reservations.

When she arrives in British Columbia, two men take instant interest in her—a Royal Navy Lieutenant and the local baker. The lieutenant can offer her the life she expected, but the baker’s kindness attracts her—even though she could never accept his suit. Or could she?

Far from the confines of home, Arabella must learn to make decisions based on who she is in Christ, rather than her place in society. She discovers a world of difference between the two sets of expectations.

The second book in Hedlund’s Bride Ship series, The Runaway Bride tells the story of the mysterious passenger Mercy Wilkins meets in book one of the series. You don’t need to read the first book in order to enjoy the second book, though. Hedlund does meticulous research for her historical novels, which makes the books a pleasure to read.

If you love books about women who must learn to live out their faith despite trying circumstances, you’ll love this book.

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?

Arabella 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.

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!

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.)

The Runaway Bride, second in the Bride Ships series, can be read and enjoyed even if you have not read the first book in the series.

As the story opened, it was clear that Arabella had definite views about her place in society and at what level she should marry. It was a bit hard to like Arabella at this point for me, however, the author allowed flashbacks to occur throughout the novel that spoke of some very scary past events that Arabella had indeed run from. I grew to like Arabella more and more and rejoiced as she began to view all people as important and part of God’s creation.

Pete was such a great character. I loved that he didn’t shy away from his past, but looked to God to help him to be a better man. His compassion for others, especially the natives of the area, helped firmly cement him as a man of good character. The attraction that developed between Pete and Arabella crackled with chemistry and I was once again reminded that Jody Hedlund writes pretty amazing kissing scenes!!

The Runaway Bride was a great story that focused on who people truly were and looked at the condition of their hearts rather than their position in society.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are 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.

The Runaway Bride is my first experience of Jody Hedlund’s writing. Several writer friends have howled at and berated me for this gap in my knowledge. Well, no more. And what a wonderful book to begin with.

I’m a very disciplined reader. I set aside time, I always review a book I’ve enjoyed and I chide my children for turning to the back page to see what happens.

CONFESSION TIME… After reading the first chapter, I had to know who she ended up with. Had to. And yes, I peeked. I’m unrepentant. But don’t tell my children because it’s not a habit I endorse. Still, I had to know, and I really couldn’t wait until I’d actually read to to the end. This book will sweep readers away into another world.

I had forgotten all about the existence of so-called “bride ships” and the idea intrigued me. Arabella has fled London and, as we see in her back story, left behind a cruel fiancé. Transplanted to Victoria, will she fare any better with Pete the reformed bad-boy baker or the dashing Lieutenant Drummond?

I was intrigued by The Runaway Bride from chapter one to the happily ever after and will be reading Jody Hedlund again. I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romances, learning about new places or walking a mile in someone’s very different shoes.

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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.

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.

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 is an historical fiction book. This book is the second Bride Ships book . There are 4 books in the series. The main character is Arabella Lawrence. She came to British Colombia , Canada on a Bride ship. She came from a rich family. During this time period there is a small pox epidemic. Arabella risks her safety and comfortable life to care for an abandoned Indian girl who was starving and sick. It is real touching how much she sacrificed to help this young girl She found her searching for food and sick as well. She was looking in the garbage for food. She risked her own health as well to care for this abandoned girl. The themes in the book are was rich vs poor,, Indian vs White man. Thank you to the publisher , netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. It is well written and is so difficult to put down. The opinions are my own about the book. I will post my review on Amazon, netgalley, Goodreads, my blog, facebook and share with church staff.

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.

Arabella has fled from her home in England due to abuse from her betrothed. For goodness sake, he bit her and had a history of "lost" wives. She is shy, though, of men due to her awful experience. A middle to upper class background has her constantly checking herself in British Columbia because she knows what is expected of a woman of her station. Baker Peter Kelly sets his sights on Arabella as soon as he sees her. His working class background and new life in Christ are what set him apart. As much as she likes the confidence and support that Peter gives her, Arabella knows she is better suited for Navy Lieutenant Drummond who pursues her. The reader soon sees the controlling nature of Drummond, but Arabella seems to think it is natural. Arabella's story draws in the reader to keep turning the pages and find out how she can come into her own with the new life opportunity.
In addition to the love story, there is also history of the settling of British Columbia and the conflicts between the settlers and the natives.
Author Hedlund spins a fantastic story of recreating one's self in the British colonies. This is book 2 in The Bride Ships series. Thanks to Bethany House and Jody Hedlund for providing me an ARC for a review in my own words.

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 Americans. 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.

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

I must admit, there’s just something about author Jody Hedlund and her stories that are mesmerizing. I find it hard to lay one down. The two Bride Ship stories I’ve read so far are very interesting. Imagine leaving family and all that you know to travel across the ocean to an unknown land in hopes of finding a suitable husband. A stranger yet. That’s just what Arabella did when feeling trapped into marrying an abusive man. When she reaches her destination she finds a naval officer eyeing her. Very controlling of her and one that always has to get his way. She also meets a very humble bread maker that takes a fancy to her also. Two very different men. Drummond is a high ranking officer brought up in a family of means. Peter is of the lower class who works hard to earn his living day in and day out.
I loved Pete and what he stood for and hated Drummond and his manipulative ways. Both vying for Arabella.
In the 1860s, it was hard to imagine how controlling and abusive the majority of men were. They looked on women as possessions, property. The women had no voice or say so in their everyday lives. It makes my blood boil just thinking about it. Besides the treatment of women in this story you also have prejudice against the Indians in this colony who have a small pox epidemic.
Read along as the story unfolds into a dramatic but engaging tale of how the world was in that time period and place. As the author notes tell in the back of the book, although fictional it is based on true history and lots of research.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through the publisher but was not required to write a review.

The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund is one of my favorite books so far this year. I love the way Arabella goes from a frightened victim to a strong, confident woman. She has a wonderful teacher in Pete the baker. I also love how her faith grew over throughout the story. I love all of the characters in this book. And the scenery is fantastic. It is a historical novel so the treatment of the native American people as hard to take. I am anxiously looking forward to the next 2 books in this series. So grab a mug of coffee and some fresh bread, then settle in for a fantastic read.



I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts 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.

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.

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 agreen@bethanyhouse.com @bethanyhousepublishers @jodyhedlund #therunawaybride #thebrideships #bookstagram

Book two in the Bride Ships series, “The Runaway Bride” manages to be even more compelling and breathtaking than its predecessor, “A Reluctant Bride.” Author Jody Hedlund has a gift for writing captivating historical romances that not only satisfy the heart and the soul, but also shed light on unique occurrences and issues that continue to remain relevant today. Whereas book one concentrated on Mercy Wilkins, a young woman from London’s slums, this sequel focuses on an upper-class gentlewoman named Arabella Lawrence, demonstrating that social class is not necessarily equivalent to contentment and morality.

One of my favorite parts of reading a series is the Russian nesting doll effect; each subsequent book pulls a minor character from the book before it and brings them to the forefront to tell their story. In this way, each novel can stand alone, but reading them chronologically offers a chance to grow alongside the characters while experiencing their world through their eyes. Arabella was introduced in the first book as a quiet and timid woman, and the reason for her behavior forms the foundation of “The Runaway Bride.”

Arriving in Victoria, British Columbia on the first bride ship, Arabella brings with her the torment and fear that sent her fleeing from England. Two men, one a respected Navy Lieutenant and the other a common baker, seek her affection, but is her heart ready to trust again? Her backstory is skillfully revealed piece by piece via flashbacks throughout the narrative, adding suspense while explaining Arabella’s thought process. Entrenched in the prejudices and models of behavior that define the social classes, the city of Victoria provides an often stark glimpse into the treatment of the rich and the poor, the upper and lower class, as well as the treatment of local natives. It is both fascinating and tragic to learn about the misconceptions many harbored, and this read is very timely given the outcome of the smallpox investigation in the final section of the book.

My favorite character was Mrs. Moresby. She appeared in book one, if memory serves, and here in “The Runaway Bride” her progressive and eccentric personality truly shines forth. She is delightful in every scene in which she appears, with a pragmatic approach to obstacles and no fear of defying convention in a society that places importance on one’s outward bearing: “Somewhere in Scripture, it says, ‘Man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’ I always figured if God thinks the condition of a person’s heart matters more, then I should too.” Without her guidance, Arabella’s future may have been very different. Between the godly wisdom and counsel of Mrs. Moresby and the aforementioned Mercy Wilkins, Arabella’s courage begins to blossom, and she comes to realize that “She might not be able to eradicate every prejudice around her, but she had to start somewhere to make a difference. And the best place for that was with herself… one by one she’d been cutting away the tangle of propriety so that with each thread she cut loose, she was slowly finding the freedom to be herself and not someone else’s version of who she ought to be.” This is what makes “The Runaway Bride” so memorable, because at one point or another everyone questions who they are and who they should be. The good news is that, just as Arabella eventually comes to realize, the Lord has the answers in His Word, the Bible, and He already loves us with an everlasting love, desiring that we invite Him into our hearts. Seek Him!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.