Rebellious Heart by Jody Hedlund

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Have you ever read a book that was well-written with a clear plot and plenty of historical detail. . .in essence, a perfect book. . .but the story didn't captivate, didn't plead with you to read it far into the night?

That was my feeling for Rebellious Heart. I deeply enjoyed Hedlund's previous two novels, but this one didn't stir me. I loved the cover, the title, the premise. . .all of it. But I didn't connect emotionally with this one, I'm sad to say.

But understand this--you may have a completely different experience.

I may try it again later and love it. Who knows?

I think maybe my problem could've been the hero Benjamin Ross. He was, as was mentioned numerous times, a poor man. And I grew tired of hearing him complain and say he needed to marry a wealthy woman just to better himself. It grew annoying and hardened my opinion of him.

My favorite character was Susanna's grandmother. She seemed like a sweet lady that would've been a delight to know.

Of course, I enjoyed the setting. I have a love of historicals for that reason.

I'll try this author's next novel, in hopes that I will connect with that story more.

Backcover Blurb:

Because she's a woman, higher learning was always closed to Susanna Smith. But her quick mind and quicker tongue never back down from a challenge. And she's determined to marry well, so she'll be able to continue her work with the less fortunate.

Growing up with little to his name, poor country lawyer Benjamin Ross dreams of impacting the world for the better. When introduced to the Smiths he's taken by Susanna's intelligence and independent spirit, but her parents refuse to see him as a suitor for their daughter.

When the life of a runaway indentured servant is threatened, Susanna is forced to choose between justice and mercy, and Ben becomes her unlikely advisor. But drawing closer to this man of principle and intellect lands her in a dangerous, secret world of rebellion and revolution against everything she once held dear.

***I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund

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Whoever designs Mrs. Hedlund's covers is doing an excellent job! I already reviewed Unending Devotion, so I needed the next one. I'm all about following an author if I really enjoy one of her books.

I'd never read a story with this type of plot involving European immigrants, but I'm so glad I chose it from the Bethany House review list. Rarely is there something so satisfying as discovering a book that you don't want to stop reading. The characters were unique, meaning they actually felt like real people. The author chose a fresh setting, a failing farm in Michigan in the 1880s.

Carl was a dynamic character as was Annalisa.

I loved the spiritual thread.

And I didn't guess the ending. Not at all. I found it realistic and definitely interesting--and of course, happy.

Go ahead and buy this one. And the next one from this author.

Backcover Blurb:

Annalisa Werner's hope for a fairy-tale love is over. Her husband failed her in every way, and now his death has left her with few options to save the family farm. She needs a plentiful harvest. That, and a husband to help bring it in. Someone strong, dependable. That'll be enough. A marriage for love. . .that's something she's given up on.

So her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.

Then a man appears: Carl Richards, from their home country of Germany, and a former schoolteacher--or so he says. He's looking for work and will serve on the farm until her husband arrives.

With time running out, she accepts Carl's help, but there's more to this man than he's admitting. He's also gentle, kind, charming--unlike any man she's ever known. But even as he is shining light into the darkness of Annalisa's heart, she knows her true groom may arrive any day.

***I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Unending Devotion by Judy Hedlund

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I received this book free from the publisher, and I'm so glad I did:) 

 This was my first book by Hedlund. And apparently I've been missing out. I was afraid the storyline might be boring--lumber camps??--but no, no, no. I was captured by the winter setting, the strong-willed characters, and heinous villains. While the theme is a tad mature(probably late teen appropriate), it shows a part of history that I hadn't thought much about before. And I loved that some parts were actually based on real events. The spiritual ribbon throughout was WELL done. I think I have a little of Lily's impulsiveness.

My one problem was a cuss word that occurs once. I don't want to read that.

Otherwise, I really, really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading another by this author!

*I was not required to give a positive review. This is my own opinion.