The Preachers Bride - Book Review

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe Preacher's BrideBethany House; Original edition (October 1, 2010)byJody Hedlund

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody has written novels for the last 16 years (with a hiatus when her children were young. In May of 2009 she double-finaled in the Genesis contest, a national fiction-writing contest for unpublished writers, sponsored by American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW.Shortly after the final, Jody acquired an agent, Rachelle Gardner of Word Serve Literary. Her agent spent the summer of 2009 working on selling her books. In September of that year, Jody signed a three-book deal with Bethany House Publishers. Jody’s debut novel, The Preacher’s Bride, releases in Oct. 2010. Her next book will release in 2011 and a third in 2012.

 

                                     ABOUT THE BOOK

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.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Preacher's Bride, go HERE.



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Question for the Author:

Elizabeth was so easy to relate to. Her struggles were so believable even though some of them were struggles that modern women don't have.
How did you write them with such conviction? How did you make them so believable?


Answer:

Thank you so much for your kind words about my book! I'm glad you liked it!


Wow! And great questions! :-) I think there are a number of reason Elizabeth may have come across as relatable. One, I have a degree in Social Work and really have a heart for the under-privileged. Second, part of my college education for social work was studying the treatment of the poor in past generations. So during the research of this book, I was able to branch off the foundation of what I already knew and dig deeper. And third, I think part of the relatability has do with how an author is able to develop characters, and I do spend quite a bit of time "getting to know my characters" before I begin the writing process.
Hope that answers your questions, Julia. If not I'll try some more! :-)
Blessings,
Jody Hedlund


My Review:
 
This is my first review of a book in this time period. I was completely captivated by Elizabeth, John, Mary and many other personalities in this one. I think my favorite book often changes as I read new ones which now takes this book to the top of my list.



Elizabeth is a character worthy of imitating! Her unique desire to serve where God has planned for her is unbelievable. Should we all be as open to His calling, the world would be a much better place! Elizabeth follows her calling through danger, emotional rollercoasters and numerous situations that place her at the "short end of the stick" if you will.


John is a hard headed man but a Godly man who also follows the Lords calling ultimately almost to his demise. He has tough choices to make, they aren't always pleasant but they are real. It is easy to read this book and fall in love with the people within. You will find yourself crying for Elizabeth, angry at John at times and always wanting to give Mary a hug or pat Thomas on his back. You will no doubt fall in love with this family!


At the end of this book I learned a bit of history that I wasn't aware of that made the book all the more special to me. This one is a must read and a book that you will not want to finish! I found myself yet again wanting to savor and delay the ending. This to me is the mark of a first class book!


I cannot wait to read Jody's next creation!