The Runaway Bride

Written by Jody Hedlund

Narrated by Esther Wane

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?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tantor Media, Inc
• Release date: Mar 3, 2020
• ISBN: 9781515948629

Jody Hedlund

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of The Doctor’s Lady and The Preacher’s Bride, which won the 2011 Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award and the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers, and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards.

Reviews for The Runaway Bride

[kevin shumway · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The writer of this book made the story so intriguing that the story just lept off the pages! It was excellent!

[becky_l-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Jody Hedlund won me over in The Runaway Bride, #2 The Bride Ships, with her hero. He is Pete Kelly, a baker who is well-liked and charismatic. He also has a keen eye out for injustice done to his fellow-man and is quick to get involved. He is kind, has compassion even on his enemies, and is really trying to live for God. Which brings up his biggest question for God: if he’s living according to God’s plan, why is his life so tough? Pete has to decide if living life God’s way is worthwhile if it doesn’t always result in a life of ease or happiness.Arabella is one very confused lady. She certainly seems to have a severe case of indecision. She brought to mind that verse in James about a double-minded person that is "blown and tossed by the wind.” (James 1:6 NLT) Just when I thought, "Now she’ll come to her senses and understand which direction to go,” she would falter and backpedal faster than a carriage whose horses are spooked. Thank goodness for Hedlund’s author’s notes. Hedlund assures us she’s aware we 21st-century readers might have difficulty understanding a 19th-century English woman’s hesitation to step outside of societal norms. By the novel’s end, Arabella develops a very strong spine and I wondered if I would be that courageous.This is a nonlinear story, so we are fed a bit of the present story, then a memory bite of the past. Eventually, the dichotomous storyline is completed after much danger, soul-searching, and exciting adventures with a few clean romantic kisses, plus a nice ending twist.Perhaps the players I most admired stayed in the background. Mercy taught Arabella so much by her example. Mrs. Moresby and Hayward were ladies I really wanted to meet and enjoy knowing.One other note. Hedlund’s historical research is impeccable and a reader can learn a great deal about Victoria in the 1860s.Notable Quotables:“He’ll give you courage like no other can.””I always figured if God thinks the condition of a person’s heart matters more, then I should, too.””She’d been satisfied with eating crumbs in her relationships when there were feasts that awaited if she just had enough courage to partake.””...when we stand up against injustice, we’ll likely suffer for doing the right thing.”I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Bethany House through NetGalley. This in no way influences my opinions, which are solely my own.

[bookworm_lisa · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wow! This book is so good. It is the second book in the Bride Ships series but can be read as a stand-alone.The series follows young women who left their homes in England to become brides to men in British Columbia. This book is Arabella's story. She ran from home when abused by her intended. He was a much older man who went through several wives. Arabella does not want to become the next victim of a horrible man. He holds employment over her father's head to see that the match is completed. Arabella really has no other option than to run as far and as fast as she can.She is courted by two very different men. Lieutenant Drummond is everything she thinks she wants. He can sustain the life of luxury that she has grown accustomed to. He would provide every opportunity that she left behind. Peter Kelly is a force to be reckoned with. He is charming, attractive, kind, and attentive. But he is a baker and cannot provide her lifestyle. He is also reformed. He has not lived a life free from vice but has found that faith is more important to him than lifestyle mistakes. He is a very authentic character who is not perfect but trying to do good. (I bet you can tell whom I hope wins Arabella in the end.)This book brought to my attention the plight of the natives living in Canada. Their story is much like that of those who lived farther to the south in the United States. The white men brought sickness and destruction to them. They were persecuted and driven from their homes. The compassion that both Arabella and Peter showed to them was heartwarming. If they were real people I would definitely want to be friends with them.I can't wait to read the next book in the series!This book is Christian fiction, it also contains passionate kissing and non-graphic violence.Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[meganleigh844 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Are you looking for a swoon-worthy read with lots of heart? “The Runaway Bride” by Jody Hedlund is exactly that. This book is the second book in the “The Bride Ships” series but can be read as a standalone. "The Runaway Bride" by Jody Hedlund tackles some fascinating subjects—one being “bride ships.” Prior to reading this book, I did not know anything about this subject. I loved reading about Arabella, an aristocrat from England in the 1860s, who rode on a bride ship to Vancouver Island. Like the author states in her author’s note, I was interested to read about what might make someone take this journey. In addition to Arabella, there is Pete, a hero that many ladies will swoon after. He is the town’s baker in this wild new land, and he has a soft heart. He cares about the Natives, even though many look down on them, especially during the smallpox outbreak. He defends them and helps them. This book shows that we are not all that different, despite our race or our class. There are so many divides during this time period, but the characters of this story learn that the Lord looks not at the outward appearance, but at the heart. I really appreciate the faith aspects in “The Runaway Bride.” Arabella has been through a lot in her past and she is able to learn that God can use one’s suffering and pain to help others in the same situation. Pete and Arabella learn to not live life according to the expectations of others but to find direction from God alone. They also experience lessons in courage and forgiveness. What a wonderful and encouraging read!Content: I give this book a PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content are: mention of half-naked natives; a woman was physically abused and she has flashbacks; people drink alcohol; a man struggles with desires of the flesh; a man tries to force his attentions on a woman; a brief scene of a man beating a woman.Rating: I give this book 4 stars. I want to thank Jody Hedlund and Bethany House for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

[kris_anderson-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund grabbed by attention from the very first page. I have not yet had the opportunity to read The Reluctant Bride (I have moved it to the top of my pile). I was glad that The Runaway Bride could be read as a standalone. I thought the story was well-written with realistic, developed characters. Arabella Lawrence has left England for a new life in British Columbia. She fled England before her wedding to Mr. Major. The match was arranged between her father and Mr. Major. The man was old enough to be Arabella’s grandfather and his other wives only lived a couple of years after they were wed. Arabella has had rigid rules drilled into her by a nasty stepmother. She arrives in British Columbia on a bride ship and hopes to make an advantageous match that suits her position. Lt. Richard Drummond is among the dignitaries greeting the ship and he is instantly taken with Arabella. Peter Kelly, the local baker, meets Arabella the same day and knows she is the woman he wants to marry. Two very different men with differing belief systems vying for Arabella’s attention. Peter Kelly is a charmer from the very beginning. I can see why Arabella was taken with him. I could feel Arabella’s mind versus heart dilemma. She knows she should marry someone of her social station, but Arabella is attracted to Pete. She also feels she can talk to him and that he likes her despite her flaws. The author showed the contrast between the two men as well as how society would perceive Arabella if she did not do as expected of her. I thought Jody Hedlund captured the time period and how it felt to arrive in a new country on a bride ship. These women had no idea what the area would be like or what type of men would be waiting for them. I liked that none of the women were forced to marry. They were allowed to take their time in finding the right life partner. The author’s vivid descriptions brought the story alive for me. I could visualize the scenery and the characters. I felt I was in the canoe with Arabella as she saw the wildlife and traversed along the water to the native’s village. Included in the story is a little girl who needs help. Smallpox has infected the natives, and many were worried it would claim those in Victoria. There are those who wished to help the natives and others who wanted to drive them away. Why Arabella fled England is revealed a little bit at a time. I do want to let readers know there is violence which will make you cringe. My favorite phrase from The Runaway Bride is “If we’re living rightly before God and pleasing Him, then that’s all that matters.” Christian values were beautifully incorporate into the story. It is an integral part of The Runaway Bride. I stayed up very late to finish this moving historical novel. I am looking forward to reading the other books in The Bride Ships series. The Runaway Bride is a touching story with a beguiling baker, fierce frays, a shocking sickness, rapid rumors, a spiteful soldier, and beautiful brides.

[polarmath · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed this book. I loved seeing Arabella go between Pete who she really liked but had to get past her social upbringing and the Lieutenant who she didn't really care for but felt made a good social match. She is torn between continuing the baking she is loving and getting told someone of her station should not do things like that. It was really eye opening as to the social standards of the day even in the new circumstances that Arabella found herself in. I liked seeing how she came on her own as the story progressed.

[ladyansel · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Jody Hedlund is one of the best historical Christian authors of this era. If you enjoy this genre and haven’t read any of her stories, run to your local library, bookstore, or order on line, you’ll not be disappointed no matter what book you pick. My only recommendation is that if you pick a series get all of the books at once, because you won’t be able to stop reading! I have read almost all of Jody’s awesome books, by far The Bride Ships series is her best writing ever! The first book in this outstanding series, A Reluctant Bride, was great, and I remember thinking to myself no way it could be topped. But I was totally wrong, and can not be happier about it. Arabella Lawrence, a middle class woman with means, is the best character Jody has ever penned, in my opinion. Maybe it is because of what she had to endure prior to getting on that bride ship, I’m not sure. I first related with Arabella in A Reluctant Bride like no other character before, and was totally captivated with her plight throughout The Runaway Bride. If I had to pick my favorite scene it would be when Arabella and Peter (Pete) Kelly the baker first meet, and he gives her his most prized possession. Oh no wait, it was the second time they met in the wee hours of the morning in the Marine barrack’s kitchen. Wait it was when they... I give up it was the whole book!As one reads this fantastic story be careful while holding the book, your eyelashes will get singed from the steam rising from the pages. Jody kept us waiting till almost the end for the...? You’ll have to read the book to get the answer. This story is full of suspense, mystery, romance, and history. Jody’s prose is like no other bringing the 1860s to life as we view Vancouver Island for the first time right along with the women of the Bride Ship. As the boat approached the harbor, the excitement, the doubt, and many more feelings that Arabella and the other women felt so did I. Jody’s gift of storytelling draws you into the story and doesn’t let go even months after one has finished the last paragraph. The feeling of tranquility sets in at the end, a place you want to relish in forever. Thank you so much Jody for granting me the honor of being a member of your Facebook Jody Hedlund's Reader Room and the opportunity to read this outstanding story as part of your Release Crew. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Bethany House. I was under no obligation to write a favorable review, and all opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The history of the bride ships is fascinating and this second book in The Bride Ships series offers a deeper look at the women who left their homes in England and endured long, grueling journeys to Vancouver so that they could marry men who were complete strangers. Author Jody Hedlund has created some fascinating characters for The Runaway Bride and, as I got to know them, I realized that they weren't anything like I thought. Arabella Lawrence is considered part of the high class in England and even though she considers herself a spinster, she definitely plans to marry someone worthy of her place in society. Upon her arrival in Vancouver, Arabella becomes acquainted with two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond, with his good reputation and his high position in the Navy, appears to be a man who meets her standards. Peter Kelly is hard-working and successful but he belongs to the working class and even though Arabella enjoys his company, she doesn't consider him husband material.I was drawn to Peter Kelly for his deep faith and his great personality so I found myself irritated with Arabella for overlooking him but Arabella's past has certainly influenced her present. As they continue to work together, it becomes apparent that there is a mutual attraction between Peter and Arabella but could she ever be happy with a baker? The historical details in Hedlund's story are excellent and the romantic scenes will take your breath away. I truly enjoyed The Runaway Bride and I recommend it to all who enjoy historial fiction and Christian romance. I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House Publishers. I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions in this review.

[stardust_fiddle · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Book two in the Bride Ships series, “The Runaway Bride” manages to be even more compelling and breathtaking than its predecessor, “A Reluctant Bride.” Author Jody Hedlund has a gift for writing captivating historical romances that not only satisfy the heart and the soul, but also shed light on unique occurrences and issues that continue to remain relevant today. Whereas book one concentrated on Mercy Wilkins, a young woman from London’s slums, this sequel focuses on an upper-class gentlewoman named Arabella Lawrence, demonstrating that social class is not necessarily equivalent to contentment and morality.One of my favorite parts of reading a series is the Russian nesting doll effect; each subsequent book pulls a minor character from the book before it and brings them to the forefront to tell their story. In this way, each novel can stand alone, but reading them chronologically offers a chance to grow alongside the characters while experiencing their world through their eyes. Arabella was introduced in the first book as a quiet and timid woman, and the reason for her behavior forms the foundation of “The Runaway Bride.” Arriving in Victoria, British Columbia on the first bride ship, Arabella brings with her the torment and fear that sent her fleeing from England. Two men, one a respected Navy Lieutenant and the other a common baker, seek her affection, but is her heart ready to trust again? Her backstory is skillfully revealed piece by piece via flashbacks throughout the narrative, adding suspense while explaining Arabella’s thought process. Entrenched in the prejudices and models of behavior that define the social classes, the city of Victoria provides an often stark glimpse into the treatment of the rich and the poor, the upper and lower class, as well as the treatment of local natives. It is both fascinating and tragic to learn about the misconceptions many harbored, and this read is very timely given the outcome of the smallpox investigation in the final section of the book. My favorite character was Mrs. Moresby. She appeared in book one, if memory serves, and here in “The Runaway Bride” her progressive and eccentric personality truly shines forth. She is delightful in every scene in which she appears, with a pragmatic approach to obstacles and no fear of defying convention in a society that places importance on one’s outward bearing: “Somewhere in Scripture, it says, ‘Man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’ I always figured if God thinks the condition of a person’s heart matters more, then I should too.” Without her guidance, Arabella’s future may have been very different. Between the godly wisdom and counsel of Mrs. Moresby and the aforementioned Mercy Wilkins, Arabella’s courage begins to blossom, and she comes to realize that “She might not be able to eradicate every prejudice around her, but she had to start somewhere to make a difference. And the best place for that was with herself… one by one she’d been cutting away the tangle of propriety so that with each thread she cut loose, she was slowly finding the freedom to be herself and not someone else’s version of who she ought to be.” This is what makes “The Runaway Bride” so memorable, because at one point or another everyone questions who they are and who they should be. The good news is that, just as Arabella eventually comes to realize, the Lord has the answers in His Word, the Bible, and He already loves us with an everlasting love, desiring that we invite Him into our hearts. Seek Him!I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[sbmc-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

"Yet, as far as he'd fallen, God had held on tight. When he'd been at his worst, God's grace had been at its best."It's another beautiful, redemptive, and satisfying historical fiction from Jody Hedlund. This is book 2 in The Bride Ships series but can be read as a stand-alone. The main characters from the first book make an appearance in this book but they play minor roles and their story is quite separate from the story of Arabella and Peter. Arabella is a well-to-do gentlewoman fleeing from a neglected past and an abusive fiance while Peter is a baker who has finally found peace and contentment in the wilds of Canada. So many things stand in their way - their vastly different social class, their opposite viewpoints in life, their differing outlooks and personalities - but they are drawn together by compassion for the natives during a smallpox outbreak on Vancouver Island.As expected, Jody Hedlund creates a rich and tangible backdrop in the city of Victoria and brings out the main characters layer by layer until you helplessly fall in love with them. Peter is gloriously swoony in his romantic, sensitive, compassionate, and faithful way and he truly lives life at full speed. Arabella, on the other hand, is fearful, second-guesses herself at every step, and lives confined by what others say and think. Through trials and turmoils, Peter and Arabella learn to see eye to eye. The process of commercial baking in the 1800s is fascinating and enlightening. If you enjoy historical fiction, this book and the series are a must read!I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is the second book in this series that I have read, and they can be read separately. They are both really good!When the facts unfold as to why the wealthy Arabella fled England and embarked to the unknown wilds of British Columbia, you will cringe. I had to wonder how long she would have survived if she had stayed?We also meet the kind hearted baker Peter Kelly and the Navy Lieutenant Drummond, whom I had a bad feeling about.Loved the compassion showed by some to the Natives, especially the starving little girls.Will Arabella end up with finding true love, or will she end up with wealth? Will there be justice here for all, keep reading!I Received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

[beautyinthebinding · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund surpassed my expectations. I started reading Arabella’s story and I could not put it down. Yes, I stayed up too late and read it all in one very long sitting. From the beginning, I rooted for Pete and Arabella to get together. The chemistry between the two of them rated as steamy without being inappropriate.Aside from the amazing romantic tension, The Runaway Bride boasts a swoon-worthy male lead, character development, and occasional well-placed humor. Pete Kelly is an imperfect man, but he’s also compassionate, devoted, and encouraging. For all his statements about not being a gentleman, he displays respect and patience with Arabella and others. He genuinely struggles with some tough issues and, like Arabella, he has lessons to learn. Watching Arabella’s transition from being a bit of a snob to finding joy and fulfillment in her work was a pleasure. Her character development was completely different than Pete’s, yet still admirable. In short, I loved this book and wish I had the time to give it a second read right now, but I’ll have to wait on that.The Runaway Bride stands as the second installment in The Bride Ships series by Jody Hedlund. While it’s written as a stand-alone, I recommend reading the books in order as Mercy, the main character in A Reluctant Bride, plays an active role in The Runaway Bride. I’m looking forward to the next installment in this series. Five stars for The Runaway Bride!Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

[ladyharris · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Jody Hedlund is one of the best historical Christian authors of this era. If you enjoy this genre and haven’t read any of her stories, run to your local library, bookstore, or order on line, you’ll not be disappointed no matter what book you pick. My only recommendation is that if you pick a series get all of the books at once, because you won’t be able to stop reading! I have read almost all of Jody’s awesome books, by far The Bride Ships series is her best writing ever! The first book in this outstanding series, A Reluctant Bride, was great, and I remember thinking to myself no way it could be topped. But I was totally wrong, and can not be happier about it. Arabella Lawrence, a middle class woman with means, is the best character Jody has ever penned, in my opinion. Maybe it is because of what she had to endure prior to getting on that bride ship, I’m not sure. I first related with Arabella in A Reluctant Bride like no other character before, and was totally captivated with her plight throughout The Runaway Bride. If I had to pick my favorite scene it would be when Arabella and Peter (Pete) Kelly the baker first meet, and he gives her his most prized possession. Oh no wait, it was the second time they met in the wee hours of the morning in the Marine barrack’s kitchen. Wait it was when they... I give up it was the whole book!As one reads this fantastic story be careful while holding the book, your eyelashes will get singed from the steam rising from the pages. Jody kept us waiting till almost the end for the...? You’ll have to read the book to get the answer. This story is full of suspense, mystery, romance, and history. Jody’s prose is like no other bringing the 1860s to life as we view Vancouver Island for the first time right along with the women of the Bride Ship. As the boat approached the harbor, the excitement, the doubt, and many more feelings that Arabella and the other women felt so did I. Jody’s gift of storytelling draws you into the story and doesn’t let go even months after one has finished the last paragraph. The feeling of tranquility sets in at the end, a place you want to relish in forever. Thank you so much Jody for granting me the honor of being a member of your Facebook Jody Hedlund's Reader Room and the opportunity to read this outstanding story as part of your Release Crew. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Bethany House. I was under no obligation to write a favorable review, and all opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.