“A Bride of Convenience” by Jody Hedlund, out today, is the third in her bride ship series and perhaps my favourite! Whilst I recommend the entire series – roll on book 4 – you don’t have to have read the previous two to enjoy this one!

I took to Zoe from the first page, she is full of heart and sass. She has endured severe hardships in England and sees this journey to a new land as an opportunity to start afresh as well as heal an old wound with her brother. She doesn’t anticipate bonding with an abandoned newborn but soon realises she needs a husband if she is to provide and protect the little one and herself.

Abe is a missionary of the Church of England. Independently wealthy, he sees his time in British Colombia as a stepping stone in his career. He has his life planned out and his wife selected. However, his life is turned upside down when he receives a letter from his betrothed saying she is marrying someone else. A mixture of anger and a desire to protect Zoe, from men who would take advantage of her situation with the baby, drives him to marry her after knowing her only a few days.

The grounds for the marriage is understandably shaky and Jody gently unpacks how past hurts deeply affect how we process new circumstances. Whilst she doesn’t avoid tough topics, she includes a healthy dose of humour to balance it out. She also includes intrigue: where is Zoe’s brother and why is the local trouble-maker is so intent on pursuing Zoe even once she’s married?

Life in 1863 British Colombia is difficult for everyone and the novel explores what that was like for miners and those who lived around them, in particular, It also looks at the work of the missionaries. Abe is a wonderful character who grows immensely through the story to fully appreciate what it means to be called by God.

If you enjoy inspirational, historical romance, this one is for you! I loved it and highly recommended it, it’s a five out of five on the enJOYment scale.

(4.5 stars) - an inconvenient marriage of convenience

Book 3 of Jody Hedlund's Bride Ships series is every bit as engaging as its predecessors (though it isn't necessary to read the previous books as this story can standalone)

Zoe arrives in British Columbia from the one of the bride ships, but she has a secret purpose as well - to find her brother. Abe is the minister who presides over the funeral of a friend that Zoe made while on ship. During their time at the hospital, a man brings his baby daughter in because his wife has died, and he is unable to take care of her. Zoe embraces the baby as her own.

After Abe finds out that his fiancee has dumped him for another man, he offers Zoe a marriage of convenience. Zoe doesn't realize it, but she has the generous nature befitting a pastor's wife, & the two of them are a good match for ministering to the community.

All is not smooth on the path to love, however, as Abe's bishop takes issue with Abe's decision. Both Zoe & Abe are challenged to re-examine God's call and will for their lives.

The story is a fascinating glimpse of history, and a wonderful romance. Zoe learns to better value her worth as a child of God, and Abe learns to discern God's call over man's. This is my favorite of the series thus far, though since I've thought that after each book, I'm really eager to read book 4 now, lol!

*Clean romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic

*Religion: overtly Christian story with Christian themes, but natural not preachy

Jody Hedlund has been on my favorite authors list since the very first time I read one of her books almost 8 years ago! And I have faithfully read everything she has written ever since. The first two books in this Bride Ships series being among some of my favorites for sure so I was more than a little excited to read this book especially when I realized it would contain my all-time favorite trope, marriage of convenience! But, this one didn’t quite live up to my expectations.
We met Pastor Abe in the previous books and I was looking forward to seeing him get his happily ever after. He seemed like such a great guy and after watching him help his friend win over his girl I was excited for him to find someone too. He was a very selfless and giving person, always going out of his way to care for everyone around him and I admired that. There were just times that I wanted him to have more of a backbone and actually stand up for something rather than kowtowing all the time.
Zoe Hart (always love seeing any part of my name in books) was a bit of an enigma, sometimes being brazen and bold but then turning around and acting shy. They way she was willing to care for children left in dire straits was certainly commendable even if sometimes it felt illogical.
Zoe and Abe had an interesting relationship, there was a lot of confusion and moments of hot then cold and so much could have been cleared up with an honest conversation that never happened. They were well suited though and their way to their own happy ending.

I have really loved this series by Jody Hedlund! This might be my favorite book thus far (although I think I say that every time I read her next book!). I absolutely loved Zoe and Abe—they both have such dear, giving hearts and are absolutely perfect for each other. Their relationship has trials and struggles, which make their marriage of convenience more realistic and their growth that much sweeter. There are a few surprises that make the plot interesting. I liked a lot of the secondary characters and really disliked the villains in the story. The setting was well described and there were times when I felt like I could feel the bitter cold of the winter mountains and see the stunning northern lights. The storyline is engaging and I had a hard time putting the book down! I highly recommend this book, and honestly, anything by this talented author!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

This was a wonderful continuation of a great series. I definitely recommend this book and series. I appreciate that the author is using different walks of life in the series and showing that each one is special. I appreciate the Christian message that is wrapped into the story. I definitely am looking forward to reading the next installment of this series!! Thank you, Jody Hedlund and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book early.

This is my first read in the series by Jody Hedlund. From the beginning, I was captured by Zoe and Pastor Abe. I loved her backstory and her spunk. The story wasn't just about two people falling in love, but was also about opening our hearts to those who might appear unlovable to others. I truly enjoyed this read. There were many great tidbits. The secondary characters were also really enjoyable and likeable.

"Sometimes we want to know the whole plan and how it will all work out before we agree to start," Mrs. Moresby continued. "But all we can do is take one step at a time, one day at a time, as He leads us along."

"...you don't have to be perfect or have your situation all figured out to be used by the good Lord. If you have a willing heart, that's all He needs."
I am looking forward to catching up on the other reads in this series.

A Bride of Convenience by Jody Hedlund
Zoe traveled far to escape her hardships in England and to find her brother. Abe was determined to further his career. But something called marriage interfered in both of their plans. Zoe found herself A BRIDE OF CONVENIENCE.

I loved the story. You can't help but love Zoe. She had a giving heart. Abe fought his attraction to Zoe as he was fixated on a lost love. He took too much time focusing on what he didn't have or what he wanted to achieve. He almost lost it all.

Many people are in the same situation. We spend so much time trying to achieve a goal or envy what our neighbor has. We don't realize how blessed we are. We sometimes realize this after it is too late.

I received this book for free to review.

A great story that I know my friends and family would enjoy.

Zoe comes to British Columbia, ostensibly looking for a husband and a better life, but in reality she wants to find her twin brother and fulfill some unfinished business with him.

Abe Merivale is the minister/missionary to Yale, BC, but he is in Victoria when the bride ship comes in. Two of the ladies on the ship weren't able to overcome their illnesses and it became Abe's duty to offer their funerals. One of the ladies was Zoe's friend, Jane.

Almost as Jane took her last breath in the hospital, a man shows up with a baby in a satchel. His wife had died of small pox, and he couldn't care for the baby girl. Zoe immediately takes over the care of the infant and refuses to give her back.

Zoe receives a note telling her that a miner will marry her and take on the baby as well. The note instructs her to meet at the church at seven pm. When she shows up at the church, the miner isn't there, but Abe is. He had just gotten a letter from his fiancee telling him she'd married someone else. So when Zoe asks him to marry her, he assumes she is proposing to him and gets his fellow missionary, John, to marry them.

This is the third book in the Bride Ship series by Jody Hedlund. She has fleshed out a story that is captivating and compelling. I wouldn't say it is a quick read, but it is easy to get involved in the plot and not want to put it down. While the movement of the plot is very similar to other "marriage of convenience" type romances where the couple eventually fall in love, Jody has included some gripping elements to make it not just another "marriage of convenience" book. For one, the Bishop that oversees Abe is a bully and makes demands that belie the fact that he is supposed to be a Christian. Jody has also included some exceptional advice through Zoe's dialog with Abe: that if God calls you to a ministry, only God can rescind that call--not a bossy-boots Bishop.

This is a five star book with two thumbs up and an orphanage full of children to love.

Bethany House and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

A marriage of convenience. Answer to a prayer.



Can two hearts bound by duty, be bound by love?



I was thrilled to pick up this book when I heard that it would feature one of my favorite characters in the previous book, Pastor Abe. I loved getting to know more of his backstory and motivations in this story, as I got to see more of what a genuinely kind and caring man he is, willing to meet people on level ground, rather than above them.



Zoe is a woman who has suffered much but has such an open heart for others, especially children. I admired her commitment to the children in her care, as well as her modest sensibilities, and thoughtfulness towards her neighbors.



This book pushes further inland, building upon the previous books, and going deeper into the wilds of British Columbia. I loved how this book visits familiar places as well as featuring favorite characters from the previous books like Mrs. Moresby, Pete, Arabella, and others, as well as introducing new ones, like Will, a clever young man who calls things as he sees them.



Probably my favorite of the series so far! Zoe and Abe have amazing chemistry, I loved how they work well together caring for the people of the community. This book was well paced and difficult to put down, tensions mounted into a climactic ending that was wholly satisfying, yet left me longing for the next book in the series! Romantic, and exciting, I would definitely recommend this book for fans of Jody Hedlund, mail-order bride romance, and fans of historical Christian romance.





I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing and Netgalley for a gifted review copy of A Bride of Convenience by Jody Hedlund. All opinions are my own.

Zoe leaves behind everything she knows to travel in a bride ship to British Columbia. This is the second bride ship to travel to British Columbia but this one has out of work factory workers. Zoe wants to find her brother who ran away and this is her opportunity. Pastor Abe is a gentlemen who is serving five years in the colonies as a missionary. The two are thrown together with an abandoned baby who desperately needs a home.

I honestly loved this book and the characters. Zoe's is complex with many layers. She reminds me of a combination of Scarlett O'hara and Melanie Wilkes. She has the determination and fire of Scarlett while she is genuinely kind hearted and wants to help everyone like Melanie. Pastor Abe is honest and kind. He struggles with what his future will be. Will meeting Zoe interfere with his carefully laid out plans?

The story is based on the author's research into an actual bride ship that travelled to British Columbia. The characters are fictional but the event was real. Zoe is a good example of how strong and scared the women must have been going to an unknown country to marry a stranger.

A Bride of Convenience is the third book in The Bride Ships series. The first two books are based on the first bride ship which carried upperclass women into British Columbia. This book takes place a few months later and the ship carries working class women.

The last few chapters felt a little rushed but I still the book as a whole. Now I want to read the first two books and look forward to the next book in the series. Hopefully Zoe and Abe will make a small appearance in future books.

Christian
Release Date: June 30, 2020

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

A Bride of Convenience is the third book in Jody Hedlund’s Bride Ships series, although it can be read as a stand alone. However, her historical research remains impeccable as always, and I’ve loved exploring different perspectives of the Bride Ship Brides through both of the books I’ve read so far.

Marriage of convenience isn’t always a favorite trope of mine, but Hedlund makes it work here depicting Zoe and Abe getting into the situation due to the young child Zoe finds herself caring for. I liked how each of them are struggle to figure out what the other expects in this new marriage, as well as grappling with some former potential love matches from their past who try to interfere.

The characters themselves are also relatable, Zoe especially. I admired her compassion for others, which led her to taking the baby in, even though it made her marriage prospects a bit dimmer, and she bonded with Abe due their shared love for helping others. But I also liked that they did have flaws and could learn from each other.

This is a solid installment in the series and another great book by Jody Hedlund. I recommend this to anyone who loves sweet/inspirational historical romance.

What a fantastic book! A Bride of Convenience is book 3 in The Bride Ships series by Jody Hedlund, but can easily be read as a standalone as characters from books 1 and 2 make brief appearances but aren't totally critical to understanding this book. I was hooked from page one with the story and intrigue in this book. The story details a young woman who traveled to Canada on a bride ship in search of her twin brother. While she searches for her brother, life takes many unexpected twists and turns including taking on an orphan daughter and gaining a husband! You won't be disappointed as you read this clean-cut book - it will hold your attention from beginning to end!

This is an entertaining read with key themes of faith, romance, and history. This is part of a series, but it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.

Zoe was a wonderful character who was easy to root for. I loved her dedication to the orphans, as well. I really enjoyed Zeke, too, and I'd enjoy seeing him in future books. The Bride Ship concept is one I haven't read before, and the author does a great job showcasing the struggles the ladies faced when arriving in British Columbia. Abe's character was perhaps the best developed, as you could see him grown into a strong man of faith.

Another captivating “keeper” from master storyteller Jody Hedlund! This book has it all—intriguing history, heart-warming drama, sweet romance, inspiring faith, endearing characters, and delightfully humorous banter. The plot flows at a steady pace, and the detailed descriptions and figurative language transport you to the scene. I especially appreciate the strong faith element illustrating the value of seeking God’s will and guidance in your life. Although it is the third book in the Bride Ships series, it works well as a stand-alone. This book made me smile, and I highly recommend it.

I received a copy of this book in e-book form from the publisher via netgalley but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I have really been enjoying The Bride Ships series by Jody Hedlund. I love the originality in these stories and the setting. Jody Hedlund is an excellent writer and you are always quickly drawn into her stories. I also love how her stories are inspired by history.

It took me a minute to warm up to Zoe, but once I did, she became my favorite character in this story. She was a perfect minister’s wife. She was very giving, selfless, and loving, especially when it came to kids. Speaking of kids, I loved Will. His personality was great and I thought he really added to the story. I have to admit that I did struggle a bit with Abe’s character. He is a minister who is very comfortable with people in all walks of life, he is also very kind, but he has a side to him that I thought didn’t seem to fit with the rest of his personality. In fact, there were a few instances during the story that made me a little uncomfortable because of the way he responded to the situation.

I felt like things tied up a bit too neatly at the end of this story, but for the most part, I was happy with the way it ended. I am really looking forward to the next story in this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.

A Bride of Convenience

“She’d always believed callings were for ministers and missionaries. But what if God had something special for everyone to do?”

When Zoe Hart leaves her lousy life in England on a bride ship bound for British Columbia, she doesn’t know what to expect. She truly only hopes to find a husband who will help her venture into the mountains to find her twin brother. Soon after landing, Zoe is faced with loss- but her loss brings her an introduction to missionary pastor Abe and a half-native baby girl in desperate need of a caretaker. When circumstances drive Abe and Zoe together, they agree to the convenience of marrying each other. With its tumultuous ups and downs, can their marriage survive all the obstacles that seem to be pulling them away from their own plans toward God’s new calling for their lives?

I absolutely loved this book, as I’ve loved each book so far in this series. Though linked slightly, they can certainly be read stand-alone.

I loved Zoe’s spunk and Abe’s heart, and how God brought two people together despite their plans to give them exactly what they needed and something better than they could have dreamed. A case of God working to do exceedingly and abundantly more than they could ask or imagine.

The setting is stunning. Jody shows both us the mountain splendor and the magic of the northern lights along with the historically-accurate, muddy, often brutal harshness of the frontier. I laughed, smiled, and was frustrated with our characters and then duly rewarded within the pages of this novel. I completely recommend it. Jody’s books never disappoint with a delightful blend of well-researched history, high-stakes scenarios, and sweet romance.

I want to thank Jody Hedlund and Bethany House and Netgalley for allowing me to be a part of promoting this book.

There is something about marriage of convenience stories that always entices me. A Bride of Convenience by Jody Hedlund was such a unique marriage of convenience story! I really enjoy it when an author takes a familiar trope and twists it into a story that I had not expected! While I didn’t connect with the characters in this book particularly well, I did appreciate Abe’s servant minded spirit and Zoe’s generous and maternal nature. There were so many obstacles for these characters to overcome as they tried to form their new relationship. The story was sprinkled with a bit of danger and conflict keeping things a bit interesting along the way and I was happy with the conclusion of this book. I’m looking forward to seeing where the rest of this series is headed!

Jody Hedlund did it once again! A different kind of convenient bride book. All the bride ship books have been so good and this one was right at the top of the list.
I loved Abe and Zoe! Their big tender hearts made me fall in love with them pretty much at the beginning. A strong spiritual theme combined with compassion runs throughout the story. Oh and I also loved Will. The way Zoe could love a child that was older touched my heart too. He so desperately needed that love and Will was so willing to help. So many things about this book I enjoyed. You don’t want to miss The Bride Ship Series.
I received an advanced e-copy from the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I have never met a Jody Hedlund book I didn't thoroughly enjoy and this one was no exception!

Impoverished mill worker Zoe Hart sails on a bride ship to British Columbia in order to track down her long lost twin brother. Shortly after arriving, she takes charge of an orphaned infant and soon finds herself married to Abraham, a local pastor. Their marriage of convenience soon becomes inconvenient, however, as they both begin to develop feelings that don't fit in with their well-laid plans.

This book highlights Hedlund's masterful ability to weave a story that transports the reader to another time and place. The rich historical details and vivid characters are eclipsed only by the beautiful love story of two people learning how to trust each other and the Lord.

The spiritual themes were not an afterthought but were also not overdone or preachy, I would not recommend this book to YA; it was clean and sweet but contained some themes more suitable for adults.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but am voluntarily sharing my own opinion.

After 114 days the Robert Lowe arrived in Victoria Britsh Columbia on January 12, 1863. Thirty-eight brides were on board, all unemployed cotton mill workers. A sharp contrast from the Tynemouth, the first Columbia Mission Society brideship, which combined an equal number of wealthy middle-class gentlewomen and poor laborers. The miners who were anxious for the brides to arrive wouldn't mind a bit to marry any one of the women on board.



Zoe Hart was beyond ready to land. She was glad to be shut of the oppressive life she left behind in Manchester and eager to begin her search for her long lost twin brother Zeke. Zeke left a few years before under a cloud that no longer existed. The opportunity was tremendous to have a fresh start. I liked Zoe's character from the start.



"Heard Captain Verney saying there's hundreds of fellas on the shore"...

"All I need is one," Zoe Chimed in. The right one."

"Handsome?"

"Aye a handsome fella and a good kisser."



Her personality was entertaining and all the time caring for others. My heart went out to her several times in the book but she is one woman who is true to herself and those she meets. If she could take care of every child on their own or others in need she would have. If her husband viewed her as just a convenience, so be it. Her goodness was a breath of fresh air in her new home town of Yale and she fast became a favorite.


Abe Merivale wasn't looking for a bride and with nearly two more years left for his position as a missionary with the Church of England, it wasn't feasible. He would go home, marry Lizzy and one day become a bishop. It was all laid out for him. Until, he met Zoe. Zoe, who wanted to rock the boat and keep Violet, an orphaned native baby. Nothing would stand in her way, and Abe, in an absent minded misunderstanding moment, married her.

Jody Hedlund, in her wonderful style, has created a story that has a few bends in the road to this marriage. Zoe was so unexpected in her role as the wife of a clergyman. It shows that life is so unexpected and often the best laid plans are best set aside so that one can hear God's own plans, which are often the best of what could be imagined. I recommend A Bride of Convenience for all who love historical Christian fiction. Once again, the research is impeccable and this era of settling the west is very intriguing. The brave women who traveled from England down around South America and up the Pacific truly have a place in our history.