Tuesday, April 7, 2020

The Runaway Bride

The Runaway Bride (The Bride Ships #2)
By Jody Hedlund
Published by Bethany House

Description:
Wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship still wearing the scars of past mistakes. One of the few single women in the boomtown, she immediately has suitors, but she is determined not to find herself trapped again by a poor choice. Vying for her hand are two very different men.
Lieutenant Richard Drummond is a gentleman in the Navy and is held in high esteem. Peter Kelly is the town's baker and has worked hard to build a thriving business. He and Drummond not only compete for Arabella's affections, but clash over their views of how the natives should be treated in the midst of a smallpox outbreak.
 As Arabella begins to overcome her fears, she discovers someone in dire need—a starving girl abandoned by her tribe. Intent on helping the girl, Arabella leans on Peter's advice and guidance. Will she have the wisdom to make the right decision or will seeking what's right cost both her and Peter everything?

Review: As much as I enjoyed the first book in this series, it's no small thing to say that I enjoyed this one even more. I loved Arabella, with her wounded heart and lack of confidence, her desire to measure up, and her tender heart. I loved Pete, too--not just because of his sense of humor which kept me laughing but for the ways that he supported Arabella, from their first interaction, and helped her to believe in her own capabilities. I loved how he advocated for others, even when it meant he'd suffer the consequences. I also really liked the historical setting for the book and getting a glimpse at the interactions between members of different classes and different races, with the varied reactions. I particularly enjoyed Arabella learning to set aside social expectations and truly look at the people around her and at her own heart. With fantastic characters, great chemistry, and an engaging plot, this book was a pleasure to read! I can't wait for the next book!

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