A Bride of Convenience

A Bride of Convenience is the story of the Bride Ships that sailed from England to Victoria, now Canada.  These women were mill workers, out of jobs because of the cotton shortage due to the Civil War.  In the 1860's not many single women had many options. So they boarded a ship and headed to the new land to marry strangers.

Zoe Hart is seeking her brother, who has run away after being accused of starting a fire in one of the mills. Zoe is intent on finding her  brother and letting him know he was exonerated of the charges. Through a misunderstanding she enters into a marriage of convenience with a local minister. Pastor Abe has been waiting for his fiance but is shocked to receive a letter that she has married another. When an infant is left in Zoe's and Abe's care, the adventure begins. It was fun watching serious Abe take the bantering from Zoe. His desire to elevate his position in the church takes him away from Zoe numerous extended times. He struggles with extreme self control, even though Zoe is his wife, he does not want to push her. As Abe gets to know Zoe, his admiration grows, as he sees her unselfishness and a heart for orphan children.

As always, in her previous books, Jody Hedlund does an excellent job of research. Her depth of characters fills you with an appreciation of her writing. This book was a delight to read.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.