The Preacher's Bride

I loved this book. It brought History to life. Not only is the story fabulous but it is written so well. I love all written by Jody Hedlund and this one is no exception!

I read a lot of books but few of them leave an impression on me. This book did. It makes you think about your relationship with God but it also made me laugh, cry, hold my breathe in anticipation, feel furious with John and others, and cheer at the end. Despite being religious it is not corny it is so realistic. I LOVED this book. Seriously. It is a must read.

I would rather read Christian novels that build me up and inspire my faith, but in the past when I've tried Christian novels they are boring or incredibly cheesy. This book was really an answer to prayer because I was beginning to read books from a darker genre. This is THE best Christian book I've ever read! The author kept my attention with each and every page. I loved the characters, the situations were believable and didn't leave me rolling my eyes saying "oh brother!" This story was written tastefully, tactfully, and she still kept my attention with every page! its so refreshing to find an author that can accomplish all this! In my opinion, the bar has been set, what a good example of what a Christian book can be! I will be reading her other books for sure!

I've read, and enjoyed, historical romance before. But, this is the first one I've encountered based on the Puritan way of life. I normally go for a good mystery or a crime drama with offbeat humor. Lately I've been indulging in young-adult paranormal. I'm also a big sic-fi fan and I throw in the occasional classic now and then. So, it would stand to reason that I might hold a small fear of this book turning out to be dull. I mean, come on... Puritans. How can that be engaging and romantic? But, engaging and romantic it is. The book opens with a heart-wrenching scene that grabs the reader and the plot never lets go. You're immediately thrust into the lives of the main characters, John and Elizabeth, with a special peek into their hearts. Fear, worry, doubt and second-guessing. These topics of romance are always in season, Puritan or not. But, the Puritan part of the story is essential. It's the love of God that causes the steadfastness of conviction that leads to much of the story. It's an imbedded part of who the characters are and what makes them tick. But, you don't have to be religious or a believer to fully fall in love with the Puritan's of The Preacher's Bride and be wringing your hands or cheering with fulfilled hope depending on the page. This novel is based on the real lives of John and Elizabeth Bunyan. Writer's license is taken with the romance of the couple, as well as creating personalities of the townspeople, while keeping most historical moments intact. John Bunyan wrote Pilgrim's Progress. A book I've never read, but I'm going to now. So grab this one. Don't let it pass you by because you think it's all about religion. It's about people. Their hopes, dreams, fears and struggles. It's an awesome, intriguing page-turner for anyone regardless of your usual reading genre.