"Yes, Mr. Burton, that she does. She has attempted to persuade me many a time."
"She is not only gifted at caring for the baby, but she is a natural-born lawyer as well."
"A lawyer, ye say? Too bad she is a girl, then." He gave a half-hearted laugh, sadness turning his gray eyes cloudy. The lines on his face deepened, and Elizabeth knew he was thinking of his only son, murdered by the kind's soldiers during the English Civil War.
If only she had been a boy. Or if only she had died instead of Robbie. Her father wouldn't have cared about a daughter, especially because he had seven of them, plenty to spare. But losing his only son? He could never replace his son.
"Too bad she is a girl," her father repeated.
"Come now, Brother. God gives abilities to everyone, even to women. And he does not bestow those abilities without expecting us to use them for Him."
"Right ye are, Mr. Burton. But this daughter of mine will never be a lawyer. Who's ever heard of a woman becoming a lawyer? She would serve herself better by focusing on the talents that will make her a good wife and mother."
"If that is how you feel, Brother Whitbread," the victor wheezed, "then perhaps you would not object if I beseech Elizabeth to take on the housekeeping for the Costins." The Preacher's Bride, pg 24-25
Back Cover: No matter the sacrifice, Elizabeth Whitbread would serve a wounded family.
No matter the danger, John Costin was determined to speak God's word.
Neither expected to fall in love.
As enemies threated to silence Costin - and those close to him - will following their hearts cost John and Elizabeth everything?
My Review: I've been following Jody Hedlund's journey to publication for some time, and it was a delight to finally hold a copy of her debut novel in my hand. The Preacher's Bride is an exciting tale of two people who are wholly dedicated to the Lord. Set in 17th Century England, the story follows a group of Puritans and their struggles after the death of Cromwell. Jody gives a realistic look at life during that time and the animosity between the Puritans and the Royalists. Based on the life of John Bunyan, this novel is an interesting and exciting read.
My Rating:
My Recommendation: I recommend Jody Hedlund's debut novel to those who enjoy historical fiction set in the 17th century or are interested in the life of John Bunyan.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
I just won this book off of Cathy Bryant's blog - and received it in the mail yesterday! I was excited to see your review of it (through facebook) - and now I can't wait to read it!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd keep up the good work with your Nano writing!
Dawn Crandall
Thank you so much for your lovely review, Christina! And thanks so much for following my journey to publication! I've appreciated having the loving support of other writers who understand what the journey is like!
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