Thursday, July 18, 2019

THE EXPRESS BRIDE by Kimberly Woodhouse, Reviewed by Trixi Oberembt and Paula Shreckhise

Trixi's Review:
I have enjoyed almost all of the “Daughter's of the Mayflower” books, especially the ones written by Kimberley Woodhouse. She has a unique knack for bringing whatever time period she sets her stories in to life. Maybe it's the extensive research she delves into (and it shows), or maybe it's the way she fleshes her characters out, or perhaps it's the exciting scenery she drops the reader into. Whatever it is, she does it well!!

The Pony Express has been one of the most fascinating industries in history and I can't seem to get enough books to read about it. Living in the 21st century, I can't imagine when mail had to be delivered by horse across county taking a couple of weeks to get there! I really love seeing how it plays out in the riders Woodhouse has chosen in this story. One rider said he had to go 75 miles in one day pushing his horse to go as fast as he can, all while looking out for danger in the form of robbers or savage Indians! I just can't wrap my head around that! I also love Jacqueline—or Jack for short—who runs the station in such an efficient manner, making sure everything runs smoothly. Her late father was station master and taught her all she knows. She has no idea her world is about to come crashing down around her in the form of Elijah Johnson; sent to find his employers long lost daughter. An immediate spark develops between these two but must be tempered while also trying to capture forgers of stolen Indian bonds. 


Since I don't want to spoil it for other readers, I'll just say this is quite an adventurous story that has so much going for it! It stands out to me as being a favorite of mine. I think one thing that I really liked about it was how the romance developed between “Jack” and Elijah. He never had a good living example of what love between two people really was and she had parents (though both deceased) who loved her unconditionally and showed her what it really meant. They both also had strong faith in the Lord and it showed.

Woodhouse didn't skimp on the faith thread and made it feel a natural part of the story. Be sure to read the “Note from the Author” at the end where she talks a little about her research and how she incorporated it into her story, it really is intriguing!

I think if you've enjoyed the other books in this series, you will enjoy this one too! These all can be read as stand-alone and can be read in any order, that's the nice part. Maybe you just might find a “favorite” author or two for yourself!

*I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishers and was under no obligation to leave a review. All opinions are my own. * 


 
Paula's Review:
The Express Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse is #9 in the Daughters of the Mayflower series by Barbour.

I have so enjoyed these Daughters of the Mayflower books. Each is unique but very well written. The Express Bride has become on of my favorites and is a priceless addition to the series. The cover of this and all the others are so fittingly beautiful to each story.

What a wonderful story of the short time the Pony Express was in service. Most of the book takes place in 1860 in Utah Territory. It is clear that Ms. Woodhouse has done a lot of research for this book. She always includes helpful links in the author’s notes about the subject of her stories.

This tale had several mysteries that unfolded. Ms. Woodhouse let us uncover them in a methodical but intricate way. The theme of the story dealt with forgiveness. She showed how the hero and heroine could have a strong faith and still rely on God when obstacles were thrown at them. The clear Salvation message was conveyed naturally through letters and typical activities that people of that era would be doing.

Elijah Johnson is on a quest on behalf of his mentor and partner, Charles Vines. Will he find more than he bargained for? Jacqueline, “Jack” Rivers’ father has just died and she is tasked with keeping a stage and Express station running smoothly. She soon finds her job, indeed her whole world is in jeopardy. Is there a secret in her past that could change everything?

I highly recommend this book for lovers of Historical Christian Fiction.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishers on behalf of the author. I was under no obligation to post a favorable review . All opinions are my own.*



BackCover Blurb:
 The Wilderness Is a Great Place to Hide
Jacqueline Rivers manages a Pony Express station in 1860 Utah territory after her father’s death. There are daily stresses placed on her in this unconventional role—and now a government official is asking her to sniff out counterfeiters. When Elijah Johnson passes through on the stage while on an exhausting quest to find his boss’s heir, he doesn’t want to leave the beguiling station manager. In fact, he may never leave when caught in the crossfire of the territory’s criminal activities. Jackie can’t decide if Elijah is friend or foe. Can she remain strong when secrets of the past and present are finally unearthed?

Join the adventure as the Daughters of the Mayflower series continues with The Express Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse.


Available in digital ebook, paperback, and Library Binding:
Buy The Express Bride at Amazon
Buy The Express Bride at Christianbook.com

1 comment:

  1. Love the two-for-one review! I haven't yet read this book and am eager to do so. Thank you, ladies!

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