It’s 1862 and Arabella Lawrence’s only escape from an
ill-matched marriage is to board the Tynemouth – a ship heading to British
Colombia. Only, this ship is filled with women wishing to seek marriage to the
plethora of available men on Vancouver Island.
With red-brown hair, Arabella hopes to catch the attention
of a gentlemen from the upper echelons of society as she feels she is not as accomplished as others. A good marriage will place her well in society. Whilst she has a past to
hide, thoughts of how she left her family plague her mind. Her step-mother’s training on how a young woman should behave allows the pretty young woman to push intrusive thoughts aside.
Pete Kelly – led a wayward life of a miner before finding
his way back on to the path that God had chosen for him. Regretting the way he
left England and missing his father, he restarts his life. He’s also keen to
marry and sneaks aboard the bride ship when it docks. Pete is lucky he’s the town’s
baker otherwise he’d never be allowed to mix with ‘proper’ gentleman.
A chance encounter with the baker and a proper introduction to
one Lieutenant Drummond begins the dance of which man will win Arabella’s
heart. The handsome soldier treats her to picnics, dances, dinners and croquet.
Pete, teases, flirts and teaches her how to bake.
Upon discovering a native child ferreting in the bins, it is only a matter of time before she fully learns of the horrendous outbreak of chickenpox among the indigenous people of British Columbia. Torn between what is expected of her and what brings her
joy, Arabella is soon in the midst of a situation that will be either be her
downfall or the making of her. Should Arabella throw society's rules out and do something that makes her truly happy or should she remain submissive and become the lady she was trained to become?
What a well thought out, intricate and emotional story.
Hedlund’s characters are rich with life and the sympathetic telling of the cruelty
against American Indians is heart-wrenching. The burgeoning relationship between
Pete and Arabella is fueled with emotion as well as highlighting the differences
of class and status that still had a bearing in the new world.
With unsung hero’s such as Mrs. Moresby – part of the welcoming
committee for the women from the bride ship – Blind Billy, Dodge (Pete’s
bake house partners) and Pastor Abe, the story is packed with colorful characters,
humor, sadness and snippets of God’s teachings throughout .
Already a fan of the Orphan Train series, the Bride Ship series sets
to be another outstanding collection. Hedlund is able to weave a tale of
romance and faith without it being overbearing or indeed preachy. As read, I laughed,
tears came to my eyes, anger simmered. It’s a story that brings awareness of
the chickenpox outbreak, the ruthlessness of the Royal Navy and the simple
kindness that humans can and should show each regardless of race, gender or
ethnicity. A highly recommended read for fans of historical and Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers as part of the Launch Team. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.
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