Review: "Hearts Made Whole" by Jody Hedlund

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: One of my favorite childhood books was about a lighthouse keeper's daughter tending the light for her father.  Jody Hedlund's "Hearts Made Whole" reminded me of that book and quickly pulled me into its pages.  I love that the Beacons of Hope series is comprised of unique stand-alone novels, with the common connection of a handmade cross that is passed from one character in need of hope to another. Another common thread is Hedlund's seamless incorporation of historically-inspired people and places into a work of fiction.  

"Hearts Made Whole" offers an ideal balance of pain, romance, and  suspense. The characters face daunting prejudices and challenges that create an interesting and engaging plot. Hedlund's character development is full of strength and depth. All of the characters, both main and secondary, good and bad, fill their roles to perfection. One of the most pivotal characters is Ryan Chambers, a Civil War veteran who suffers from physical and emotional ravages of battle.  His story is one to break and warm hearts, and he is the perfect protagonist for a novel titled "Hearts Made Whole." Caroline is a strong, yet vulnerable, female lead.  It is refreshing to read about a female taking on what was considered a man's job.  So often we see the male lead rescuing the female, but in "Hearts Made Whole," Ryan often depends on Caroline's strength. Through both Caroline and Ryan, Hedlund shows the healing power of faith and love.  

The "Beacons of Hope" series conveys messages of hope to readers.  "Love Unexpected," and "Hearts Made Whole" are the first two full-length novels in the series, preceded by a novella, "Out of the Storm."  Although they are all set in Michigan lighthouses, their plots are unique.  "Hearts Made Whole" is my favorite in the series so far.  My level of emotional connection with the characters and their stories was strong and my attention never waned as I read about Ryan and Caroline's defeats and triumphs.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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. 

Summary from Bethany House: 

1865, Windmill Point, Michigan

Can She Forgive the Hurting Man Who Costs Her the Role She Loves

After her father's death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren't supposed to have such roles, so it's only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper--even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.

Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He's secured the position of lighthouse keeper mostly for the isolation--the chance to hide from his past is appealing. He's not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who's angry with him for taking her job and for his inability to properly run the light. When his failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he's in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he's unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Caroline feels drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope...and possibly love?

Review of "An Uncertain Choice"

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: "An Uncertain Choice" is Jody Hedlund's debut novel in the Young Adult market.  The plot is a combination of traditional fairy tale meets "The Bachelor."  Lady Rosemarie is a young ruler bound by an ancient vow to enter a convent on her eighteenth birthday. Her only escape from such a solitary fate is finding true love and marrying before she turns eighteen. Enter three knights tasked with winning Lady Rosemarie's heart. The story has enough clean romance and adventure to grab the attention of young readers. Hedlund introduces some of the depth and historical detail that defines her adult novels, but in a manner that is more suited to younger audiences.

The story begins with a scene of Medieval torture and a valiant rescue by a brave knight. That sets the scene for the ribbons of danger and excitement that weave throughout the novel. True to any fairy tale, there are sinister characters carrying out dark schemes. It is quite easy to figure out the person behind various deadly and dangerous situations. The mastermind behind certain events isn't actually revealed until the end of the novel, but most readers won't be surprised by the revelation. The tension created by the events is engaging, and Hedlund gives glimpses into the horrors of Medieval life. Hedlund reveals realities of life beyond castle walls as Lady Rosemarie ventures into poor sections of her kingdom, mingling among the poor. Lady Rosemarie displays a compassionate heart, making her an admirable heroine for teenage readers.

Descriptions of starving citizens, punishment, and dark dungeons are tempered by a more lighthearted quest for Lady Rosemarie to find true love. Rosemarie is presented with three knights to save her from a solitary life. The knights' attempts to woo Lady Rosemarie add some fun and humor to the plot. For me, this aspect of the plot most defines "An Uncertain Choice" as a young adult novel. The concept of the ancient vow is also too much of a fairy tale concept for me.  Still, "An Uncertain Choice" is a quick, quality read. Readers who want to discover more about Lady Rosemarie's parents and the ancient vow can read more in the prequel, "The Vow."

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zonderkidz-Books through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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. 


Summary from Zondervan: Due to her parents’ promise at her birth, Lady Rosemarie has been prepared to become a nun on the day she turns eighteen. Then, shortly before her birthday, a friend of her father’s enters the kingdom and proclaims her parents’ will left a second choice—if Rosemarie can marry before the eve of her eighteenth year, she will be exempt from the ancient vow. 

Before long, Rosemarie is presented with the three most handsome and brave knights in the land. But when the knights’ arrival results in a series of attacks within her land, she begins to wonder if the convent is the best place after all. If only one of the knights—the one who appears the most guilty—had not already captured her heart.

Review of "Love Unexpected"

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: "Love Unexpected" is a gentle romance with endearing characters and a beautiful setting.  Jody Hedlund makes a mark on readers' hearts with her tale of faith, forgiveness, and love. I became easily ensconced in the lives of Emma, Patrick, and Josiah. The unexpected is present from the tense opening scene when Emma finds herself coming close to death at sea. In a short span of time, her life completely changes and she becomes a wife and mother. I was surprised at how suddenly Emma and Patrick enter into their marriage of convenience.  In many ways, their situation is similar to "Love Comes Softly," and the marriage is just the beginning of the story.  Emma's struggles and doubts as a new wife and mother make her a realistic character who is easily lovable.  Her compassion and humility definitely stand out, and her interactions with little Josiah are absolutely heart-melting.  The cover art captures their bond to perfection, and matches the essence of the novel in its entirety.  

Patrick is the epitome of a gentleman, behaving with honor and restraint.  Emma quickly loses her heart to him and readers will too. His character is one with multiple layers that add texture to the entire plot.  His dark history is a stark contrast to the redeemed Patrick, which adds significant depth to the messages of hope and forgiveness.  Patrick's job as the keeper of the Presque Isle light seamlessly incorporates Michigan's nautical history. The small village and its lighthouse are described with picturesque charm, while still acknowledging the hardships faced by those who settled in remote areas. Jody Hedlund has an undeniable ability to bring to characters to life and place them in historical settings, and that talent is prevalent in "Love Unexpected." The gentle love and the purity of emotion make this a memorable novel, whose light shines brightly.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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. 

Summary from Bethany House: 1859,   Presque Isle, Michigan 

What Is the Secret That Could Shipwreck Both of Their Lives?

All Emma Chambers ever wanted was a home, but when her steamboat sinks just outside Presque Isle, she's left destitute and with no place to stay.

An unlikely solution arises when the lighthouse keeper arrives in town. He's just lost his wife and is having a difficult time caring for his child. So a traveling preacher gets the idea that the keeper and Emma might be the answer to each other's dilemma. After a hasty marriage, she finds herself heading to the lighthouse with this handsome but quiet stranger. Nothing in her aimless life, though, has prepared her for parenting a rambunctious toddler, as well as managing a household.

Emma soon suspects Patrick may be hiding something from her, and then she hears a disturbing rumor about the circumstances surrounding his late wife's death. It seems as if her wish for a home and family of her own could end up leading her once more into turbulent waters.

Review of "Captured by Love"

Rating: 4 stars

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Review: When I pick up a Jody Hedlund novel, I know that she is going to take me on a trip through history.  The pages of "Captured by Love" immerse me in Mackinac Island around 1814. Hedlund gives us a broad scope of life on the island through the lives of her characters. The Michilimackinac Island that Hedlund portrays is nothing like the resort area that we picture today; it is a remote island of hardships, starvation, and fighting between the British and Americans.  This love story melds with a history lesson that is beautifully portrayed with contrasting shades of darkness and light. 

"Captured by Love" begins with a confrontation that sets the tone of tension that envelopes the island throughout the story.  The struggles become personal when details about Angelique's life are revealed.  As a young woman living with a strict stepfather and a suspicious stepmother, Angelique is imprisoned on the island that she adores.  Her stepfather, Ebneezer, is definitely one of the sources of darkness in the novel.  His treatment is nothing short of cruel, which adds a degree of heaviness to the plot.  Angelique's strained relationship with her stepfather is contrasted with her close connection to the Durant family, especially Miriam and Pierre.  Hedlund's characterization of Angelique is impeccable, and she quickly becomes a character that captures my interest and emotions.  When the dashing Pierre enters Angelique's life, a more vibrant side of her is revealed.  Though both of their pasts and presents are riddled with conflict, their interactions add some refreshing fun and romance to the surrounding strife.  

The path to love is not straight and easy, however, as a love triangle forms between Pierre, Angelique, and Pierre's brother, Jean.  Pierre evokes mixed feelings in me as he pursues Angelique.  He is charming and complimentary, but often shows a degree of conceit as well.  His disregard for the relationship between Jean and Angelique is bothersome as well.  Pierre's view of their commitment highlights Angelique's desire to live a moral and godly life, and makes me appreciate her character even more.  Despite his flaws, Pierre is undeniably a good character, and one of the few gentlemen introduced in the plot.  Hedlund uses Pierre's faults to teach a lesson about faith, honor, and sacrifice.  Many of those lessons are taught during the conclusion of "Captured by Love," which is filled with peril and excitement. The emotional journey continues until the very end, and the last pages bring romance to capture our hearts. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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.

Summary from Bethany House: A voyageur and a young woman swept up in a time of upheaval and danger discover firsthand the high price of freedom.

The British Army has taken control of Michilimackinac Island and its fort, forcing the Americans to swear an oath of loyalty to the crown in order to retain their land. Pierre Durant is a fur trader who returns after being away from the island for years, only to find the family farm a shambles and those he cares about starving and at the mercy of British invaders.

Torn between the adventurous life of fur trading and guilt over neglecting his defenseless mother, Pierre is drawn deeper into the fight against the British--and into a relationship with Angelique MacKenzie, a childhood friend who's grown into a beautiful woman. She now finds herself trapped by the circumstances of war and poverty, and the cruelty of her guardian, Ebenezer Whiley.

As tensions mount and the violence rages on, Pierre and Angelique must decide where their loyalties rest and how much they'll risk for love.

Review of "Rebellious Heart"

Rating: 4.5 Stars

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Review:  Jody Hedlund has the gift of bringing history to life in stories inspired by real events. "Rebellious Heart" is loosely based on the love between John and Abigail Adams. The connection to the famous historical figures is not directly tangible, but their fictional counterparts show courage, faith, mercy, and love that the Adamses likely possessed. Hedlund weaves a story of love and mystery that keeps the plot interesting.  Susanna's connection to a runaway indentured servant and Ben's loyalty to the Patriot cause create tense moments. The central mystery revolves around a murder case that impacts the entire town.  It lends a sense of darkness in the details, somewhat reminiscent of Dickens. There are elements of the murder mystery threaded throughout the plot, so I expected a significant climax leading to its resolution. The novel ties up neatly and completely, but almost too easily. 

Susanna and Ben find themselves on opposing sides of the mounting rebellion and living in different social spheres.  Circumstances repeatedly throw them together, creating the perfect recipe for romantic tensions. Ben allows statements that Susanna made when she was just 5 years old to act as a barrier to his growing feelings for her as an adult.  This strikes me as a bit unrealistic, but it is a small detail in the overall story.

"Rebellious Heart" is the second novel I have read in as many weeks that is set around America's fight for independence. Although both books focus on the same topic, they are executed differently to give readers unique views of a pivotal time in history.  Hedlund depicts the years leading up to the Revolutionary War, when loyalties were fractured. Reading about the Revolution has renewed my appreciation for the brave individuals who stand up for justice and freedom. Hedlund reminds her readers that a "rebellious" heart can be an asset to the world when its motives are pure and just. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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.”

   

Summary from Bethany House: A Love That Would Shape History Forever

Because she's a woman, higher learning was always closed to Susanna Smith. But her quick mind and quicker tongue never back down from a challenge. And she's determined to marry well, so she'll be able to continue her work with the less fortunate.

Growing up with little to his name, poor country lawyer Benjamin Ross dreams of impacting the world for the better. When introduced to the Smiths he's taken by Susanna's intelligence and independent spirit, but her parents refuse to see him as a suitor for their daughter. 

When the life of a runaway indentured servant is threatened, Susanna is forced to choose between justice and mercy, and Ben becomes her unlikely advisor. But drawing closer to this man of principle and intellect lands her in a dangerous, secret world of rebellion and revolution against everything she once held dear.

Review of "A Noble Groom" by Jody Hedlund

Rating: 4.5 Stars

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Review: Fairy tales have been the theme of several books that I have read recently.  Jody Hedlund's newest novel, "A Noble Groom," is built around the dream of a fairy-tale style love, but delves much deeper. Like in her other novels, Hedlund immerses readers in a historical setting.  The blend of fact and fiction lends a realism and poignancy that make Hedlund's books memorable.  "A Noble Groom" offers readers a glimpse into the immigrant community in Michigan during the 1880s.  The plot touches on social, economic, and environmental issues, to create a realistic picture of life during that time period.  At the center is a touching romance that ties in themes of love, truth, strength, and forgiveness.

Annalisa's plight as a woman and single mother in her small German community is both insightful and inspiring.  The oppression of women in Annalisa's culture is heartbreaking and painful, but makes her fight to create a better life for her daughters more heroic.  Annalisa is a sweet, yet strong heroine, deserving of a completely noble groom to fulfill her dreams.  Enter Carl Richards, a noble man in disguise, seeking refuge in America.  From the beginning, it is evident that Carl's presence will eventually bring heartache if his true identity is revealed.  His haughty views of  "peasants" when he arrives in Annalisa's community is frustrating  and annoying.  Hedlund develops and softens his character throughout the novel, and he becomes the definition of "noble."  The love between Annalisa and Carl is sweet and well-developed and is the impetus for personal growth in both characters.  An unhurried, meaningful love story is always more satisfying from beginning to end than one that is rushed.

An element of danger and an unsolved murder adds another dimension to the story.  They come together in the end to create tense closing scenes, but also uncover truth and forgiveness.  One of the major historical events at the end is one that I have read about in another book, but Hedlund's portrayal offers a unique perspective that ties in seamlessly with the overall plot. I have a few lingering questions about what happened to some of the background characters after this pivotal event, but there are no doubts about the outcomes for the main characters.

"A Noble Groom" is another finely crafted historical novel by Jody Hedlund.  Each of her novels is distinct and well-developed, which is exactly why I always look forward to her next release. "A Noble Groom" offers history, romance, faith, charming main characters, hardships, and triumphs...all the qualities that make a book a worthwhile read.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this novel from Netgalley, courtesy of Bethany House.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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

Summary from Bethany House: Michigan, 1880 - Annalisa Werner's hope for a fairy tale love is over. Her husband failed her in every way and now his death has left her with few options to save the family farm. She needs a plentiful harvest. That, and a husband to help bring it in. Someone strong, dependable. That’ll be enough. A marriage for love...that's something she's given up on. So her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.

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Then a man appears: Carl Richards, from their home country of Germany and a former schoolteacher--or so he says. He's looking for work and will serve on the farm until her husband arrives.

With time running out, she accepts his help, but there's more to this man than he's admitting. He's also gentle, kind, charming--unlike any man she's ever known. But even as Carl is shining light into the darkness of her heart, she knows her true groom may arrive any day.

Review of "Unending Devotion" by Jody Hedlund

Rating: 4.5 Stars

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Summary from Bethany House: 

Michigan, 1883 - In Her Darkest Hours, Is He the Man She Needs?

Lily Young longs to find her lost sister or will die trying. Heedless of any danger, she searches logging camps and towns, posing as a photographer's assistant. And then she arrives in Harrison, Michigan--and the sights of Connell McCormick. 

Connell is determined to increase the fortune of his lumber-baron father and figures as long as he's living an upright life, that's what matters. But when Lily arrives in town she upends his world, forcing him to confront the truth that dangerous men have gained too much power while good men turn a blind eye. 

Vexing but persuasive, Lily soon secures Connell's help, drawing them ever closer to each other. Will standing for what's right cost them both everything?

Buy the Book: http://ow.ly/dihgn  


Review: In Unending Devotion, Jody Hedlund once again builds a compelling, fictional plot around true people and events.  Her newest novel transports readers to the lumber towns of central Michigan in the 1880s, where we witness the devastation brought to the landscape and human lives. Hedlund tackles the painful issue of prostitution - both forced and voluntary.  There are many historical fiction novels that mention prostitution and brothels, but Unending Devotion stands out and offers a different perspective.  As Hedlund mentions in her Author's Note, James Carr, the evil antagonist in the novel, comes directly from the pages of Michigan history. It is sad and distrubing to picture the real victims of Carr's violence, and to realize that such atrocities still occur today. Unending Devotion is a call to action for readers to take a stand against injustices.

Lily and Connell are both morally upstanding characters, but very contrasting in their responses to the cruelties they witness.  Lily is fighting to save her sister and other girls losing their innocence in brothels.  She is headstrong and determined, sometimes to the extreme.  There were a few times that I felt annoyed by Lily's stubbornness and unwillingness to think before speaking and acting. Connell is bothered by the moral degradation of his town, but too fearful to confront powerful men.  He is an unlikely hero, a bit of a nerd with a mind for numbers and a desire to stay away from trouble. As Lily and Connell are drawn together, they are both forced to examine the weaknesses in their personalities.  The result is personal growth for both characters, but also dangerous encounters with Carr and his men that keep the plot moving.

Despite their personality differences, Connell and Lily are determined to keep their thoughts and actions pure. Through their relationship, they both realize that they are not above temptation.  Hedlund reminds readers that even those individuals with the highest moral standards are capable of falling prey to temptation.

The healing and reform of girls rescued from brothels is a topic that is touched on throughout the plot. Lily spends the novel with one main goal: to rescue her sister.  Along the way, she learns that girls are forever changed by their experiences and loss of innocence, and the path to a normal life is fraught with huge challenges. Like Hedlund's other novels, there is a bittersweet element to the conclusion of Unending Devotion, that will compel readers to reflect on what they have read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from LitFuse through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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.”

Meet Jody: Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of "The Doctor's Lady" and "The Preacher's Bride". She won the 2011 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog.  Visit her website: http://jodyhedlund.com/

Blog Tour Schedule: http://litfusegroup.com/author/JHedlund

Read an Except: Unending Devotion

Review of The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund

Rating: 5 Stars

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Synopsis from Bethany House: Priscilla White knows she'll never be a wife or mother and feels God's call to the mission field in India. Dr. Eli Ernest is back from Oregon Country only long enough to raise awareness of missions to the natives before heading out West once more. But then Priscilla and Eli both receive news from the mission board: No longer will they send unmarried men and women into the field.

Left scrambling for options, the two realize the other might be the answer to their needs. Priscilla and Eli agree to a partnership, a marriage in name only that will allow them to follow God's leading into the mission field. But as they journey west, this decision will be tested by the hardships of the trip and by the unexpected turnings of their hearts.

Review: Jody Hedlund emerged last year with the riveting and emotional novel,The Preacher's Bride.  Her newest book, The Doctor's Lady, is infused with the historical detail, excitement, and depth that made The Preacher's Bride such a memorable read.  Hedlund has a remarkable talent of integrating true stories with elements of fiction to embellish the plot.  The Author's Note at the end of the novel added extra substance to an already poignant story.  Priscilla's journey as the first white woman to travel West is not just a fanciful musing of an author's imagination; it is based on actual events from the diary of Narcissa Whitman.  
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The first 90 pages of The Doctor's Lady are set on the east coast and focus on the preparations for the journey West.  Once Priscilla, Eli, and their travel companions begin their trek, the plot picks up speed and reveals unexpected dangers, challenges, and blessings.  It is very easy to romanticize the past and the life of the brave pioneers who ventured into uncharted territory. Hedlund reminds readers of the hardships that Westward travelers faced, without creating a plot that is too sad or heavy.  The marriage-of-convenience concept is common in historical fiction novels, but the setting of The Doctor's Lady offer a fresh background. Watching the restrained love develop between Priscilla and Eli enhances the plot with just the right amount of romance. 
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After several long and arduous months, Priscilla's and Eli's journey ends.  During the novel they  each grow individually and as a couple, risking their lives to follow their calling. From the first page to the very last page, The Doctor's Lady is a finely crafted novel.  The last two pages in particular showed Priscilla's growth from a sheltered and idealistic woman to a stronger, more open-minded woman. The conclusion is fully satisfying, tying up the story contained within the pages of the novel, while connecting it with the events mentioned in the Author's Note. 
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I highly recommend both The Doctor's Lady and The Preacher's Bride, especially for fans of historical fiction.  I will wait with anticipation for Jody Hedlund's next novel!
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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above 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.”
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Excerpt: 

The Doctor's Lady

The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Here is the summary provided by www.cbd.com:

In 1650s England, a young Puritan maiden is on a mission to save the baby of her newly widowed preacher--whether her assistance is wanted or not. Always ready to help those in need, Elizabeth ignores John's protests of her aid. She's even willing to risk her lone marriage prospect to help the little family.
Yet Elizabeth's new role as nanny takes a dangerous turn when John's boldness from the pulpit makes him a target of political and religious leaders. As the preacher's enemies become desperate to silence him, they draw Elizabeth into a deadly web of deception. Finding herself in more danger than she ever bargained for, she's more determined than ever to save the child--and man--she's come to love.

My Review:

Based on its cover, my first thought was that The Preacher's Bride was yet another Amish fiction novel, but I was wrong.  Instead of the often formulaic stories that are set in Ohio and Pennsylvania, The Preacher's Bride takes place in England and provides a fresh perspective of the religious persecution that the Puritans faced, and it tells the story of Elizabeth Whitbread and John Costin who face the challenge of loving and understanding one another during a tumultuous time in which members of society are at odds because of religious and political convictions. 

Ultimately, this novel takes its readers on Elizabeth's journey as she makes the decision to serve a young family and grows to love her new husband.  As Elizabeth protects and nurtures her new family, I found that I was riveted to the pages at times, especially during more suspenseful moments of the book.  Jody Hedlund skillfully presents Elizabeth as a young woman who possesses doubts and uncertainties, but who perseveres through trials with her own deeply held convictions.  I find myself drawing similarities between Elizabeth and Jane Eyre, but I am also strongly influenced by the fact that I watched Jane Eyre shortly after reading this book.

After finishing this novel, I read the "Author's Note" at the end, which provides the historical background from which Jody Hedlund created this compelling story.  The end of  The Preacher's Bride is even more compelling when I consider the real-life marriage after which her characters are based.  I am eagerly awaiting Jody Hedlund's next novel because she won my loyal readership with this promising debut!