“Isn't that just like the Lord, blessing us amid fresh uncertainty?” – Tidewater Bride, Laura Frantz

No one could have said it better. The year 2020 was sure something else, but Thank God for authors like Laura who know how to truly write. I’ve read almost all of her books and I’m never bored when I pick up a new one. I believe this story was inspired by Pocahontas's life and was a sequel of sorts. Alexander Renick, our hero, is a true testament to Captain John Smith and our early frontiersman. He reminded me a lot of actor Daniel Day-Lewis in his younger years. No wimps here and All Man! For some reason, heroines from Laura's previous books always remind me of Disney Princesses, especially regarding their names. Tidewater Bride’s heroine Selah Hopewell not only has a unique and beautiful name but also embodies it. Her character was resilient, steadfast, and loyal. I never had the overwhelming need to crawl through the pages of the book and choke the heroine, as I have in other books. The secondary characters were intriguing also. The author could very well expand and write many spin-off stories with them.

I loved the early colonial setting and the people in it. It was easy to imagine myself walking along the streets of James Towne or frolicking in the frontier with the characters. I enjoyed seeing what they saw and living their lives. For a little while, It gave me a respite from reality. When I can travel and not move an inch from where I’m sitting, I know I’m reading something great. Thank you, Laura, for another spectacular story. I look forward to reading your next book.

What a lovely blessing at the start of 2021 to be allowed to read an ARC of Laura Frantz's new novel, Tidewater Bride! This heart-stirring, multi-layered colonial romance between Selah and Xander is engaging, uplifting, and delightful. These two are not main characters who have not tasted life's difficulties. They are not young innocents: Selah on the verge of spinsterhood and Xander, widower and father of a young son. Both have experienced deep losses and each value their independence. Their sweet romance is slow to build, and Frantz uses the tenderest of language to describe it. "Fare thee well, dear Selah. It sits sweetly with me that you're not far."

I would recommend Tidewater Bride to anyone who loves historical, inspirational fiction. My thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of this novel, for this my honest review.

Starting off a reading year with a Frantz novel is one that is going to be wonderful.

With her characteristic ability to bring the past to life with a beauty that can't be missed "Tidewater Bride" took a story that has been told many times in many ways and gave new light to it.

This novel that is based off of a many times told and long wondered about myth is lightly resembling the tale of Pocahontas yet completely new in the way Frantz told the story of Sarah Hopewell and Xander Renick.

The plot twists were done in such a way that "Tidewater Bride" becomes a special historical fiction that will pull you in without warning and leave you wanting more!

18+ due to content.

“‘Verily, there’s no relief for so fatal a malady but this…” Standing on tiptoe, she brushed his lips with her own, so fleeting it was less kiss and more maddening tickle.”

Since I first heard about Laura Frantz’s upcoming release this past summer, I have been hungrily and expectantly waiting. Every post I saw from her about the book was an immediate heart. I knew that the moment Tidewater Bride came out, I would be waiting, ready to click “buy” on my kindle, receiving it immediately, and reading it without stopping.

Needless to say, I am quite a fan of Laura Frantz’s writing. Since I first read Frontiersman’s Daughter 3 years ago, I have devoured every book with her name on it. Although I definitely have my favorites, there is not one of her books that I wouldn’t put in my top favorite books. Her writing style, depth of characters, sense of inner turmoil, heart-stopping romance, and the true twists and turns that leave you eager for more, are just a few of the reasons why she is one of the greats. Her stories never progress the way I think they will, but always end leaving me satisfied and full of hope. I apologize to all of your families now as it’ll be a while till they see you again!

Tidewater Bride was a complete delight to read. True to her archetypal setting of colonial America, Frantz takes you on a journey of a woman who desires something (or someone 😉) she feels is too far out of her reach, and a heartbroken man on the cusps of opening his heart again.

For those of you who know the true story of Pocahontas, not the loosely based Disney version, will fall in love with this version of John Rolfe in the aftermath of his beloved Powhatan princess’s untimely death. I loved Xander’s courage and masculinity, but even more, I appreciated the tenderness, devotion, and care that he exuded. As the reader, you fall in love right alongside Selah. He is everything you desire in a hero, and more!

Before starting the book, I wondered if I would be able to connect with the leading lady as I do have a wish to wed, and struggle with emphasizing with characters who don’t. However, Selah is a character worth admiring and emulating. She is brave, intelligent, beautiful, and kind-hearted. And although she experiences real-life hardships that would send us all to the pits of despair, she remains true and consistent. Especially in her walk with the Lord. Now, this is not a Christian book in which the character stays unrealistically true to her faith. Selah has her own struggles that she has to overcome, but she doesn’t let them harden her. She pushes through and ultimately grows deeper in her faith.

With a three-day weekend on the horizon, look no further for a delightful read than this new release. Believe me, you will not regret it! I'm already thinking about re-reading it by simply writing my review. A sign of truly great writing!

I was given a free copy of the book, but the opinions in this review are completely my own.

The Red Review: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
***5 Hearts: Compelling Characters, Well-Written, Interesting Storyline, Unable to Stop, Desire to Re-read

Some books you just don't want to end and Tidewater Bride is one of those! Set in the Virginia Colony in the 1600s, you will feel like you are experiencing life in that era! Selah Hopewell is an caring, much sought after young woman who is waiting to marry for love. I admired how Selah was kind to her parents, slaves and Indians. You will learn a little about what it was like to arrive in the colony on a bride ship. Xander Renick disagrees with the leaders of Virginia Colony on many issues including treatment of slaves and Indians. He has indentures on his tobacco farm. I recommend Tidewater Bride to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Tidewater Bride is a great start to your 2021 reading! I received a complimentary e-book through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

Tidewater Bride by Laura Frantz was a wonderfully written story. This is my first time reading a book like this and it did not disappoint at all. I found the author has a fantastic way of telling the story and very easy to read. I will be looking for more books by Laura Frantz in the future.

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was my first book by Laura Frantz, so I did not know what to expect, but I found that I really enjoy the way she weaves a story. Her writing is different than those who write the regency romances — it is more descriptive and formal. Moreover, the romance is more a part of the story than the story itself. These differences cause the book to have more substance, but I think that they also slightly prevent you from connecting with the characters. Nevertheless, it was a sweet read with a beautiful story. I loved Xander and Selah and their families.

My thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Tidewater Bride
by Laura Frantz
Back of the book: “Selah Hopewell seems to be the only woman in the Virginia colony who has no wish to wed. True, there are too many men and far too few women in James Towne. But Selah already has her hands full assisting her father in the family's shop. And now she is in charge of an incoming ship of tobacco brides who must be looked after as they sort through their many suitors.
Xander Renick is perhaps the most eligible tobacco lord in the settlement. His lands are vast, his crops are prized, and his position as a mediator between the colonists and the powerful Powhatan nation surrounding them makes him indispensable. But Xander is already wedded to his business and still grieves the loss of his wife, daughter of the Powhatan chief.
Can two fiercely independent people find happiness and fulfillment on their own? Or will they discover that what they've been missing in life has been right in front of them all along?
Bestselling and award-winning author Laura Frantz takes you to the salty shores of seventeenth-century Virginia in this exploration of pride, honor, and the restorative power of true love.”
Impressions: I liked it but it wasn’t a favorite.
Rated: Kissing, violence, reference to rape, and Indian slander
Liked: I enjoyed the story and characters. There was much happening in this story.
Disliked: There was a lot of drama going on but I felt like each bit could have had its own side story. I think the situation with Watseka was the most frustrating, however. Without spilling the beans, I can say that I imagined things playing out much differently than they did. I was also disappointed with the marriage in this book as it happened and there was no description of what that adjustment would have looked like. Again, there was just too much going on there was no chance to let some important parts be highlighted. I wanted to like this story so much more.
Quotes: “’ And I believe it is as you said, Father, that we are more alike than not alike, despite our many differences. Our souls are the same.’ ‘Aye, just the same. The gospel is for all peoples, every tribe and nation, as Scripture says, for He made us all.’”
“Tis wise to speak little and observe much, at least at first.” – This Biblical thought is so wise but not utilized enough these days. I feel like everyone seems to clamor over each other to get their word in and don’t take time to listen to others.
“Tis natural to feel fear betimes. But remember the biblical queen Esther, who did bravely before the king despite her fears. And the shepherd David, who defeated the giant. Courage bears its own rewards.”
I received this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

I have been an avid reader of Laura Frantz’s books for a long time. I don’t believe that there is a book that she has written that I haven’t read! My favorite of her books is The Lacemaker. However, Tidewater Bride is a new favorite. Having grown up in Tidewater Virginia, I enjoy reading everything I can about the history of Virginia, and Tidewater Bride was wonderful in providing a peek into the lives of those living in that area. I have been to James Towne more times than I can count and am an avid student of Colonial history particularly as it pertains to Virginia. This book did not disappoint. I was entranced by the story of Selah and Xander in James Towne in the 1600’s. The characters were so well thought out and the history gave so much detail, that it felt like I was truly there watching their stories unfold. I particularly enjoyed the detail given about The Naturals that lived in that area, their language and their customs. It was a volatile and unstable time to be a Colonist in the New World. The “friendship” between the Colonists and the Native Americans was tenuous at best. The book also delved into the beginnings of slavery in Virginia and the characters’ response to such heinous deeds. The only thing that I didn’t like was how the book ended abruptly (in my opinion). I had several questions that I thought would be answered at the end but they were not (I cannot say what my questions were without giving away much of the plot of the book). All in all, I couldn’t put this book down and highly recommend it to other readers. My thanks to NetGalley and Revel for allowing me to review an ARC of this book. All opinions within this review are my own.

A beautifully written historical fiction that draws you in from the opening pages. This is a story full of history, suspense, drama, and romance with enduring characters. Ms. Frantz has clearly done her research of native Virginia and James Town as she is able to paint a vivid picture with her words making you feel as if you are in the pages of the story especially with her description of both the highs and lows of early settler life.

As a fan of Ms. Frantz previous books, I did not believe anything could top my favorite, A Bound Heart, but I was wrong. Tidewater Bride quickly drew me in and inhabited my thoughts until I could return to its pages. While I wanted to devour the story, I also did not want it to end. It easily made my heart race, brought tears to my eyes, and put a smile on my face. It is a must read!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

"Tidewater Bride" by Laura Frantz
Released: 1.5.2021

Selah Hopewell is Virginia Colony's most eligible woman, but she's busy finding grooms for other women.

Xander Renick is the most eligible tobacco lord in the entire Virginia Colony settlement, but he's more focused on business ever since he lost his wife, the daughter of the Powhatan chief.

Dropped in 1634 James Towne, follow these two individuals as they find happiness.

Laura Frantz researched this book. Tobacco brides were a hot commodity during this timeperiod, where farmers would bid for a perspective bride in auction. Once women arrived, they were lodged in married households, and courted by the farmers.

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.

#laurafrantz #tidewaterbride #historicalfiction #christianfiction #jamestowncolony #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #thattravelinglibrarian #bookaddict #readersofinstagram #booknerd #publiclibrarian

Wow! This book is simply incredible! It is moving, heart-wrenching, heartwarming, romantic, hopeful, and much more. Whenever I picked up "Tidewater Bride", I was whisked back in time to 1630's Jamestown, and was truly transported to another time.

This is the first book I have read by Laura Frantz, and I can't wait to read many more! Her writing style is simply breathtaking and magical. She brings to life another time and place, and every detail springs right off of the page. I could envision each place, and all of her characters feel so incredibly real. Some you will love from the start, some grow on you, and some you will lose trust in or despise from the start. Furthermore, Ms. Frantz brilliantly weaves history and historical fiction, and the story flows seamlessly.

Selah is such a strong, caring, selfless, family-oriented woman who wants the best for those around her. She often thinks herself too busy to worry about her own happiness.

Xander is such a kind, caring, hard-working, and loving man. Fiercely protective of those he loves and cares about, he wants to do what is right for everyone.

I thoroughly enjoyed watching many of the relationships blossom throughout the book. I also found many of the supporting characters to be loving, kind, and many moments brought a smile to my face.

Ms. Frantz also delves into many historical aspects of the era: from tensions and hopeful peace negotiations between the Powhatan Indian Tribe and those who settled in Jamestown, to slavery, indentured servitude, trying to grow and sustain a life in a new land, and much more. Certain moments of this book are difficult to read, as the author does not shy away from some aspects of the brutality that took place historically. Some are touched upon descriptively and some are more implied.

If you enjoy historical fiction mixed in with historical romance, I highly recommend this book! I absolutely did not want to put it down, and found myself reading into the late hours of the night to see what happened next. There are quite a few twists and turns. I do wish that the ending was extended out more though, but, this is no way took away from my enjoyment of the novel.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Revell for the ARC of this book, as well as to Revell Reads for sending me a physical ARC as well, I was so moved by it! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

3 stars
Tidewater Bride
by Laura Frantz

What a lovely book. It is a perfect read for a cold winter’s day. I have not read this author before but I really enjoyed this book! The characters were well developed and believable.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley.

Title: Tidewater Bride
Author: Laura Frantz

Ch: 46

Pg: 416

Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Christian Historical Fiction

Rating: 5 stars

Publisher: Revell



Laura Frantz has done it again. Just when I don’t think she can’t out do the previous book she goes and proves me wrong. Even though this one is outside her historical wheel house, it still has Laura’s one of a kind writing style. As you read you can tell that she took the time to research the time period as she does with all her novels before she put pen to paper.


Having been to the Jamestown it’s easy to picture the setting and with my love of history it’s easy to put in the historical time period. But a James Town setting isn’t something I’ve read before in fiction before and when movies try to do it they get it historically wrong. Like previous novels Laura write the Indigenous people’s with truth and grace.


Xander the hero of this novel while not perfect no hero can be, but he is a man of faith, honor and his conviction. They you can see throughout the novel. I think he has become my favorite hero of hers, sorry Seamus. And Selah the heroine is Laura’s most unique to date and not just because of her. She’s strong willed and has a mind of her own. Especially when’s she says she won’t be a tobacco widow. I’ve heard the term heard it growing up but never seen written in a book. But most importantly she has a heart of gold.


There’s a scene that I don’t want to give to much a way but Laura writes it such emotion that you feel what Xander is going through, that all tobacco farmers feared even in to the 20th century. As well some of my favorite lines that Laura has written in this novel. Tidewater Bride will stay with me for a while.



I received a complimentary copy Tidewater Bride from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

"I will not give you what you are yet unsure of, thus forming a bond between us that might well break."

What an incredible historical romance! Laura Frantz is a masterful storyteller, weaving history and fiction into a touchable and absorbing world that captivates, enraptures, and inspires. I wasn't expecting a novel inspired by Pocahontas when I picked up the book but I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in 1634 James Towne, learning about the colony and its trade as well as the Powhatan nation. There is sweet and slowly building romance, shocking betrayal and twists in the plot, deeply layered characters who tug at the heart, and profound spiritual truths that guide the characters even in their trials, tribulations, grief, and sorrow. It's a must-read historical romance that will definitely start your 2021 right.

Selah, an intelligent, witty, and outspoken daughter of the head merchant of James Towne, is almost a spinster and an unlikely match to Xander, the reticent and driven owner of the largest tobacco plantation and a widower of his beloved Powhatan princess. Yet as different as their personalities may be, they are drawn to each other by a desire to see justice, peace, and fair treatment among all men prevail in their new land. Their respective families are endearing, especially Selah's younger brother Shay. This book....it will stay with you a long time after finishing the last page.

I received a copy of the book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

I am always excited to start a Laura Frantz book. Tidewater Bride is no exception. One thing I love about Laura’s writing is how it builds. We meet secondary characters in their various situations, which build the story of the main characters, and then they go and live their lives off the page. Then other characters come and build up the main character’s story. It gives a nice rhythm to the stories and almost makes them feel like TV episodes, which make them a lot of fun to read.

Reminiscent of the PBS show, Jamestown, this book is perfect for those who enjoy early American history, or those who are curious about our countries origins. I loved learning the little facts that are sprinkled throughout the book about fashion, foods, and town life. I highly recommend any of Laura’s book, and this one is a true delight.

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

I have a confession to make. I still haven’t read the last twenty-five pages of the last Harry Potter novel. I just never wanted it to end. I do that with books that worm their way into my heart. I hate saying “goodbye” I guess. Well, it’s sort of the same with Laura Frantz’s novels. Don't worry, I finished Tidewater Bride, but I procrastinated like crazy with this one. See, Frantz’s novels are one-sitting reads for me. I know they are going to be excellent stories filled with characters I’m going to fall in love with. I know the plots will be engaging and I won’t want to put the books down. I know the themes and messages of the stories will be timely, and I will ponder the narratives long after I have finished reading them. I procrastinated reading Tidewater Bride because I knew that if I picked it up to read, I wouldn’t put it down and the beauty and joy that is reading a Laura Frantz novel would be over too soon. And, wouldn’t you know it — I was right. Tidewater Bride is a phenomenal read. I loved every single second I spent in this story and now I’m sad. Sad because I have to wait for the next Frantz novel. But you know what? Laura Frantz novels are well worth the wait!

Selah is an amazing character. Actually, she is more than that. She is someone I wish to emulate. One of my favorite things about her is her innate ability to just pray. It’s so natural to her, prayers roll right out of her mind straight to God’s heart. If you could see my copy of the novel you would see that I have marked a TON of pages with quotes and moments from the story that I love or that struck me. Many of my tabbies are for moments when Selah prays. I appreciate a faith in God so strong that talking to Him is second nature. We should all aspire to this level of faith in and relationship with God. Later in the novel, Selah loses someone close to her and it wrecks her world. Life becomes dim. She has much to be thankful for. She is blessed completely. She even recognizes that her life is good. But this loss has forced her into a melancholy she’s never experienced before. It’s like the joy has been sucked out of her life. There is this poignant scene in church. Selah has woken up on the wrong side of bed, so to speak. She’s a little prickly and closed off. Her loved ones notice and worry, but give her space. While sitting in church, the place where she should have access to comfort, she finds she just can’t. Her sadness is like a cloak and it’s consuming. This bothers Selah and internally she asks where is her faith and trust? But minutes later, the pastor of her church reads from God’s Word and it pierces Selah’s heart. It’s like the passage read was God speaking directly to her. God was able to break through her sadness and depression and get her mind and heart back on track. It’s beautiful to me how wonderful God is to His children. He sees our broken hearts and He wants to heal them. So He gives us a Word — someone says a prayer with just the right words, or a passage from the Bible is read, and it stops us in our tracks and we KNOW God is talking to us. It’s a tiny scene in the novel, almost insignificant to the larger narrative, but to me, it was breathtaking. I’ve been Selah so many times I’ve lost count. Filled with sadness and depression, wondering if I’m a fraud as a Christian because I feel so lost and alone and scared, BUT God swoops in with a timely Word that fills my heart with the encouragement and support I need, and then I know that I am seen and loved by the Creator of the known and unknown universes. This moment in the novel may be small, but it’s a beautiful scene in a beautiful story that will stick with me for a long time.

Tidewater Bride is wonderful. It’s the kind of story that weaves its way into the reader’s heart and takes residence. It’s a historical romance that’s so well written, you’d swear you were in Virginia with the characters in the 1630s. Tidewater Bride is remarkable and I cannot recommend it enough.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author, Laura Frantz, via NetGalley. I also received a paperback copy of this novel from the publisher, Revell, in order to read and review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Set in the 1630s James Towne, Virginia Colony, Tidewater Bride tells of the shortage of women and at times the shortage of peace within the area. While originally welcomed by the Naturals, the colonists had done much to lose their friendship and respect, not the least of which was to encroach on their land. While there were good people who sought to establish relationships with, to learn from, and to live in peace with the Naturals, there were others who demonstrated hostility and disrespect, sometimes even towards their fellow colonists. Frantz's latest novel, set with this backdrop, is filled with romance, adventure, and a bit of mystery. As always she completely draws her readers into the story, has them hanging on every word, and leaves them anxious for her next offering.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Tidewater Bride from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Tidewater Bride is the exciting and adventurous love story of Selah Hopewell and Xander Renick, whose romance blossoms amid the strife of the early Jamestown settlement. Both fiercely independent, Selah and Xander wonder if they are too busy for love but are still drawn to each other. In the midst of this, they work together to deal with the colony’s precarious relationship with the Powhatan nation and the dangerous scheming of fellow Jamestown settlers. Incredibly detailed and historically accurate, this love story shows the struggles and victories of actual Jamestown settlers in the early 1600s. I am taken aback at how much research must have gone into writing this tale, which was full of knowledge of early colonist life and relations with Native Americans at that time. I absolutely love Laura Frantz’s ability to sweep you away to another time and place with descriptions and settings that make you feel as if you are standing right in the middle of the story. The plot for Tidewater Bride was extremely well-written and included even more adventure in the last half of the book than you expect. The best part of this story was the romance between Selah and Xander, which slowly built from an attraction evident in the first chapter to a steadfast love that overcame all adversity. As always, Laura Frantz manages to weave deep spiritual lessons into her story, and we see wonderful examples God’s faithfulness, providence, and comfort. I absolutely adored this book and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a great read. Laura Frantz has delivered another captivating Christian historical romance not to be missed, and it is one of her best releases yet.

I was given a copy of this book by the author and publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own. I really did love it!

Ah! This is why Laura Frantz is on my Must-Read list. Laura pens the most moving tales that I highly recommend to all lovers of clean, inspirational, historical fiction. Selah is a strong heroine who will not marry for less than love. Xander (how can you not love a hero named Xander?) is not your conventional colonist, having lost his Powhatan wife and just trying to keep the peace between the two nations he embraces. Selah and Xander are friends with many obstacles to overcome to find their own love story. Set in 17th century Colony of Virginia, the story is rich in historical details that will transport you to the setting. You will experience the story, not just read about it. You will learn about tobacco brides, JamesTown, relationships between colonists and native tribes, slavery vs indentured servants, love, loss and redemption.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.