The Preacher's Bride

October 9, 2013

Title: The Preacher's Bride
Author: Jody Hedlund
Publisher: Bethany House
Pages: 384
ISBN: 978-0764208324
Publication Date: October 1st, 2010

Synopsis:
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.
Review:
Oh, my goodness! I can't believe I haven't read The Preacher's Bride till now! Jody Hedlund knocked this story, her debut book, out of the park! Like the previous books I have read by Jody, they grab a hold and do not let go till the end...however, even then I still want more.

Jody Hedlund took a prominent figure in Christianity, John Bunyan, and brought him back to life in the form of John Costin, showing us what it could have been like back in this turbulent period of time. For those that do not know, John Bunyan wrote The Pilgrim's Progress. I have read the Pilgrim's Progress, but it's been a long time, but I do remember it and it is a moving story these many years later.

Even though John Costin is a central character, he isn't the focus. Elizabeth Whitbread is a young girl, who is mostly noted as plain, but has the ability to speak with as much authority and persuasion of a lawyer. She keeps to the Puritan ways as strictly as possible, but Elizabeth also know when to break away from the rules. It is in her leading to break the rules is what brings her to John Costins. John just lost his wife and is on the verge of losing his new born son. The matron's of community do as they see fit, by sticking to the staunch rules, and in doing so the life of baby Thomas hangs in the balance. Elizabeth defies the matron's in search for a wet nurse to help baby Thomas. Elizabeth's compassion and desire to always do what the Lord commands her makes her such an extraordinary character. 

Elizabeth faces many battles. The growing tension of one matron who sees herself as the leader of the community, her own sister who belittles her looks, and a man who wants to desperately crush John Costins. Even though they are hard things to deal with, Elizabeth thinks through her choices and does what is best. She doesn't fly off the handle when her emotions are strong.

The characters come to life in The Preacher's Bride. The passion and the compassion that flows through John and Elizabeth are sincere. As is the controlling, manipulation, anger, and hatred shown in other characters.

Such a fantastic book!
Too Read!
5 out of 5

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