Note: At the end of this review, there are instructions on how you can receive up to two chances to win a free autographed copy of The Preacher’s Bride!
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If I had not connected with Jody online, I’m not sure I would have picked up this book.
Which goes to show you can’t judge a book by its cover.
Speaking of which, the cover shows a beautiful young Puritan woman, a contrast to how the heroine saw herself. A girl who was willing to enter into a loveless and practical marriage, believing that nobody else would have her.
If I had not connected with Jody online, I’m not sure I would have picked up this book.
But I have followed Jody’s writing journey, learned tips on her blog, know her penchant for research and desire for excellence, and have sensed a little of her heart.
I HAD to read this book. Especially when I discovered it was based on the life of one of my favorite faith heroes and author of Pilgrim’s Progress, John Bunyan. And on his second wife, Elizabeth, a woman whom he called “well-beloved”
I was not disappointed. Jody has woven an incredible story set in 17th century England. A story of love and mystery and humor and hardship and danger. It’s a fast-moving page-turner. I read it (all nearly 400 pages) in a little over a day, using every available moment.
John Costin is a tinker “called to mend souls not just kettles.” He is a real man, with real weaknesses as well as real strengths. He preached without a license, which did not sit well with the Anglican church.
Elizabeth Whitbread is a compassionate and strong young woman, a “natural born lawyer,” called by God to care for the Costin children after John’s first wife dies. Elizabeth finds her reputation at stake and her very life in danger as she steadfastly serves the Costin family while John continues to preach.
In the midst of sacrifice and enemies determined to shut John down–even if it means taking down others to get to him–he and Elizabeth find love.
It’s hard to believe this is Jody’s first published book. She has skillfully woven history and her imagination to create a work that I will read again.
It’s left me with a longing for a servant’s heart despite all odds.
It’s left me with a desire to read Pilgrim’s Progress again as well as some of Bunyan’s other writings.
And it’s left me with a desire to reach beyond myself in my own writing.
You won’t be the same after you read this book.
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Tomorrow, November 3, is Jody’s birthday. Be sure to come back here to celebrate with a birthday One-Word/One-Line interview and a second chance to win an autographed copy of The Preacher’s Bride. If you leave a comment today, you receive one chance to win. If you leave a comment today and tomorrow, you get two chances. How cool is that?
I’ll choose a winner on Monday morning, November 8.
There is no need to leave your email address as I can see it on the administrator’s side.
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Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in return for an honest review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Sounds like it’s pretty good.
😀
THANK YOU!!!! Your review is so well thought out and detailed! I appreciate the effort you put into it and more than that I so appreciate all of your support and encouragement! You’re a blessing! 🙂
I. Loved. It.
I agree with you that Jody is someone who’s heart pulls you in to her and what she has going on. I must admit, I’m very happy for her and her successes as a debut author but I, too, did not think her story was one I could get into (I’m a hot contemporary nut, don’t judge me!) but after your review, I do believe I will pick up a copy! YAY JODY!!!
Cool! But don’t buy yet. Maybe you will win. 😉
I really want to read this book! I have been hearing about it for a while now and really want to read it! 🙂
Please enter me! 🙂
Thanks!
Kim
Hi Kim!
Thanks for coming by. You’re in the running. Be sure to stop back tomorrow for a second chance. 🙂
It’s an excellent book! No need to enter me, I already have a copy. Great review.:)
Oh, but Karen. It would make a great gift!
Wonderful view of what sounds like a great book.
Thanks. You are IN. 🙂
I’m hooked into very interested in reading this book. Love those with true history within them.
Welcome Melanie,
You’ll love it. I’m sure of it.
Your review sold me on this one. Thanks.
Yay! And welcome. 🙂
Some reviews I skim over, aware that they aren’t really offering a thoughtful opinion. Yours hits me as the honest evaluation of a knowledgeable writer of faith. You’ve seen between the lines, to use a cliche, and found the nuances that make Jody’s story special! Thank you for this.
Thanks, Carol!
I haven’t read the book yet, but I will be sure to look for it. Thank you, and blessings here!
Maybe you’ll win. 🙂
It sounds like a good book! I will most likely be reading it soon.
Good deal! And maybe *you’ll* win, Helen. 🙂
I would love to win this book! Lori
Thanks for sharing the great review, Sandra. Makes me want to get it!