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Beacons of Hope #1
Love Unexpected
All she's ever wanted was a home. But stranded at Presque Isle port after their steamboat sank, Emma Chambers and her brother, Ryan, couldn't be farther away from security. While Ryan at least can find work, Emma can't even find a place to stay. An unlikely solution arises when the lighthouse keeper, who recently lost his wife and is struggling to raise his young son, arrives in town. A traveling preacher believes they might be the answer to each others' problems, and after a hasty marriage, Emma is headed back to the lighthouse with this handsome but quiet stranger.
But nothing in her wandering life has prepared her for suddenly being asked to raise a child and keep a house. Struggling at every turn, Emma also suspects Patrick may be keeping something hidden from her. In town she hears whispers about strange circumstances surrounding his previous wife's death, and it seems as though Emma's answered prayer for a home and family may actually be something much more dangerous.
But nothing in her wandering life has prepared her for suddenly being asked to raise a child and keep a house. Struggling at every turn, Emma also suspects Patrick may be keeping something hidden from her. In town she hears whispers about strange circumstances surrounding his previous wife's death, and it seems as though Emma's answered prayer for a home and family may actually be something much more dangerous.
348 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2014
About the author
Jody Hedlund
70 books4,290 followersJody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 520 reviews
May 10, 2018
Happy sigh! :) review to come!
Love Unexpected is a wonderful start to the Beacons of Hope series. I read it every spare moment that I could and enjoyed every page. Hedlund’s previous release, Captured by Love, was a great read. However, it didn’t top my favorite Hedlund novel, and it lacked a certain something that kept it from being a 5-star read. I liked it a lot, but I didn’t fall in love. That was definitely not the case with Love Unexpected. As I got further into the story, I found all of the elements that I love about Jody Hedlund’s stories. The historical details about the isolated life of a light housekeeper were descriptive without being overdone. The plot is simple, yet flows so easily to what I thought was a lovely conclusion.
I think one reason that I felt so connected to this story were the characters. Emma possesses a genuine sweetness that falls completely within her nature. Her hopes for her life and her fears made her real to me, and the way her past colored her present felt genuine. When she meets Patrick and his young son Josiah, her desire for a family looks to be fulfilled and watching them grow into their roles was one of my favorite parts of the story. And speaking of Josiah – he was adorable! I love that Jody wrote a child into the story and that he was realistic and believable.
Patrick might be one of my favorite male leads that Jody has ever written, joining the ranks of Karl from A Noble Groom and Benjamin from Rebellious Heart. Patrick is a flawed character with an ugly past. Out of Patrick and Emma, Patrick tugged at my heartstrings most as he tried to overcome his guilt and shed condemnation. He’s a bit rough around the edges. He isn’t eloquent, yet he honestly and humbly tries to do what is right. There is a bit of mystery surrounding his past, but Hedlund still made him utterly trustworthy.
The side characters, with the exception of one, felt realistic. They all added something good to the story, even the villain, who was my favorite kind of villain. He had depth and motivations, although his actions were clearly selfish and wrong. My small complaint is the one side character – she just didn’t seem quite realistic, although I can understand why Emma was taken in by her. I just wish it might have been a little more subtle.
I also can’t review this book without touching on one of the areas that Hedlund writes so well, and that is the romance. It was an unexpected yet powerful thing that passes between Emma and Patrick when they first meet, and what a sweet passion it is that develops as their relationship progresses. I loved their daily interactions in the small nuances with life, as well as the in the moments of high tension.
I’m so glad that this is the start of a series – it was an opening full of promise, and Emma’s brother Ryan certainly deserves his own story. I have brothers myself and sort of have a soft spot for brother-sister relationships. I loved Ryan’s parts in this story and am eager to see what happens to him in the second book. And, without giving away anything, I would LOVE to read a novel about Sophie. I know it might be a difficult story to tell, but I think Jody Hedlund could do it!
Love Unexpected is one of my favorite Hedlund novels and one of my favorites of the year. The second book is a while in coming, but I’m sure it will be worth it! Recommended for fans of her previous books, of course, as well as fans of inspirational historical romances. 4.5 stars!
Love Unexpected is a wonderful start to the Beacons of Hope series. I read it every spare moment that I could and enjoyed every page. Hedlund’s previous release, Captured by Love, was a great read. However, it didn’t top my favorite Hedlund novel, and it lacked a certain something that kept it from being a 5-star read. I liked it a lot, but I didn’t fall in love. That was definitely not the case with Love Unexpected. As I got further into the story, I found all of the elements that I love about Jody Hedlund’s stories. The historical details about the isolated life of a light housekeeper were descriptive without being overdone. The plot is simple, yet flows so easily to what I thought was a lovely conclusion.
I think one reason that I felt so connected to this story were the characters. Emma possesses a genuine sweetness that falls completely within her nature. Her hopes for her life and her fears made her real to me, and the way her past colored her present felt genuine. When she meets Patrick and his young son Josiah, her desire for a family looks to be fulfilled and watching them grow into their roles was one of my favorite parts of the story. And speaking of Josiah – he was adorable! I love that Jody wrote a child into the story and that he was realistic and believable.
Patrick might be one of my favorite male leads that Jody has ever written, joining the ranks of Karl from A Noble Groom and Benjamin from Rebellious Heart. Patrick is a flawed character with an ugly past. Out of Patrick and Emma, Patrick tugged at my heartstrings most as he tried to overcome his guilt and shed condemnation. He’s a bit rough around the edges. He isn’t eloquent, yet he honestly and humbly tries to do what is right. There is a bit of mystery surrounding his past, but Hedlund still made him utterly trustworthy.
The side characters, with the exception of one, felt realistic. They all added something good to the story, even the villain, who was my favorite kind of villain. He had depth and motivations, although his actions were clearly selfish and wrong. My small complaint is the one side character – she just didn’t seem quite realistic, although I can understand why Emma was taken in by her. I just wish it might have been a little more subtle.
I also can’t review this book without touching on one of the areas that Hedlund writes so well, and that is the romance. It was an unexpected yet powerful thing that passes between Emma and Patrick when they first meet, and what a sweet passion it is that develops as their relationship progresses. I loved their daily interactions in the small nuances with life, as well as the in the moments of high tension.
I’m so glad that this is the start of a series – it was an opening full of promise, and Emma’s brother Ryan certainly deserves his own story. I have brothers myself and sort of have a soft spot for brother-sister relationships. I loved Ryan’s parts in this story and am eager to see what happens to him in the second book. And, without giving away anything, I would LOVE to read a novel about Sophie. I know it might be a difficult story to tell, but I think Jody Hedlund could do it!
Love Unexpected is one of my favorite Hedlund novels and one of my favorites of the year. The second book is a while in coming, but I’m sure it will be worth it! Recommended for fans of her previous books, of course, as well as fans of inspirational historical romances. 4.5 stars!
July 10, 2016
This is my first Jody Hedlund book. It was a tender and sweet story full of redemption,understanding and forgiveness. I look forward to reading more of her books.
August 3, 2017
A Decent read!!
My first read with Jody Hedlund and I LIKED it. It was a story of Dream, Hope, and reality.
“I've always dreamed of having the kind of home we used to have," she said. "I kept waiting for that. I didn't think I'd ever be happy until I had a home like that again. But now, after all, that's happened, I realize I can't put all my hopes and dreams in a home or a husband. I have to put my hope in Him above everything else.”
A story of Love, understanding, forgiveness, and redemption.
“I guess I figured that as long as I was with people I loved, I was home. It didn't matter where we were or what kind of place we lived in. We had each other and that was enough.”
“She'd made a wreck of things, but thankfully God could take the wreckage and turn it into something beautiful.”
It was a beautiful story with great characters. The character development is also excellent. Patrick was a criminal and now a changed man trying to redeem himself. Well, he wasn’t a murderer so I think he at least deserved a second chance. And the way he redeems himself is actually believable that he is a changed man.
Emma and Patrick, the relationship building between these two was slow and genuine. I loved the way they try to work on their relationship. There was a third person in their relationship, baby Josiah. He was a super cute baby and because of Josiah, bond between Emma and Patrick became even more stronger. Except for one or two things overall it was a good story. Thanks to Leona , because of your review I became interested in this one. Well, after this one I am looking forward to other books in this series.
My first read with Jody Hedlund and I LIKED it. It was a story of Dream, Hope, and reality.
“I've always dreamed of having the kind of home we used to have," she said. "I kept waiting for that. I didn't think I'd ever be happy until I had a home like that again. But now, after all, that's happened, I realize I can't put all my hopes and dreams in a home or a husband. I have to put my hope in Him above everything else.”
A story of Love, understanding, forgiveness, and redemption.
“I guess I figured that as long as I was with people I loved, I was home. It didn't matter where we were or what kind of place we lived in. We had each other and that was enough.”
“She'd made a wreck of things, but thankfully God could take the wreckage and turn it into something beautiful.”
It was a beautiful story with great characters. The character development is also excellent. Patrick was a criminal and now a changed man trying to redeem himself. Well, he wasn’t a murderer so I think he at least deserved a second chance. And the way he redeems himself is actually believable that he is a changed man.
Emma and Patrick, the relationship building between these two was slow and genuine. I loved the way they try to work on their relationship. There was a third person in their relationship, baby Josiah. He was a super cute baby and because of Josiah, bond between Emma and Patrick became even more stronger. Except for one or two things overall it was a good story. Thanks to Leona , because of your review I became interested in this one. Well, after this one I am looking forward to other books in this series.
August 30, 2017
An unexpected surprise and a true gem. A well written and researched story that flowed so seamlessly it was hard to put down. I finished it in one sitting.
I have never read anything by this author. I stumbled on the book by accident when using the Goodreads search engine for something else. Since it was offered free with my Kindle Unlimited subscription and had such high ratings, I decided to give it a try.
I will definitely be on the lookout for more work by this author. I highly recommend.
I have never read anything by this author. I stumbled on the book by accident when using the Goodreads search engine for something else. Since it was offered free with my Kindle Unlimited subscription and had such high ratings, I decided to give it a try.
I will definitely be on the lookout for more work by this author. I highly recommend.
February 8, 2019
Jody Hedlund grabbed my attention with an action suspenseful start where pirates boarded the steamboat Emma and Ryan were on and they had to jump into the lake to save their lives, held my attention with the interesting characters, especially Patrick with his mysterious past and kept me on the edge of my seat with nail biting scenes and twists.
Josiah just stole my heart - maybe because he made me think about my own 2-year old boy. But I just loved him and all his little adventures.
Patrick was my favourite character, someone who had to overcome a dark past but was clearly a strong Godly man. His love for his son was beautiful to watch. My heart broke for him because of decisions Emma made.
Emma, with her longing for a home and family, was a sweet but naive character. There was a few times where I wanted to say, Oh, Emma, you need to choose better friends and make better decisions on who you will trust. Her failed attempts at cooking made me smile and enjoyed how she struggled with Josiah's tantrums. She was a perfectly flawed character.
Ryan quite surprised me with his wisdom about Emma and Patrick. I thought he would react differently than how he did, and when I saw book 2 is about him, I was like "Yeah!"
2 Cor 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new." was the theme of this story. A truth right in front of us but sometimes difficult to accept/understand because of our shame and guilt.
This was my first novel by Jody Hedlund (I've read the novella Out of the Storm) and would certainly not be the last.
If you're like me - a reader who loves suspense and enjoy historical as well, you will enjoy this historical sound story with a lot of action and pirates!
Josiah just stole my heart - maybe because he made me think about my own 2-year old boy. But I just loved him and all his little adventures.
Patrick was my favourite character, someone who had to overcome a dark past but was clearly a strong Godly man. His love for his son was beautiful to watch. My heart broke for him because of decisions Emma made.
Emma, with her longing for a home and family, was a sweet but naive character. There was a few times where I wanted to say, Oh, Emma, you need to choose better friends and make better decisions on who you will trust. Her failed attempts at cooking made me smile and enjoyed how she struggled with Josiah's tantrums. She was a perfectly flawed character.
Ryan quite surprised me with his wisdom about Emma and Patrick. I thought he would react differently than how he did, and when I saw book 2 is about him, I was like "Yeah!"
2 Cor 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new." was the theme of this story. A truth right in front of us but sometimes difficult to accept/understand because of our shame and guilt.
This was my first novel by Jody Hedlund (I've read the novella Out of the Storm) and would certainly not be the last.
If you're like me - a reader who loves suspense and enjoy historical as well, you will enjoy this historical sound story with a lot of action and pirates!
May 8, 2015
Jody Hedlund delivers yet another fine historical romance novel. I especially enjoyed learning more about the care of lighthouses and their role in northern Michigan. It was surprising to learn in the author's post notes that Michigan has more lighthouses than other other state.
Patrick and Emma's story was a sweet story about forgiveness and confidence.
Love Unexpected is recommended for those that enjoy Serena Miller.
Patrick and Emma's story was a sweet story about forgiveness and confidence.
Love Unexpected is recommended for those that enjoy Serena Miller.
January 18, 2021
Jody Hedlund is an excellent writer, I appreciate how she develops the characters and takes you along so descriptively as the main characters get to know each other. Her characters have depth. I love that.
This book was based on a marriage of convenience which I personally really enjoy reading about. I did find this was a bit predictable as to the direction it would go and I really dislike when the whole plot of a book is based on one character hiding the truth, while stressing about the other character finding out the truth. In books like this I just wish the characters would be H O N E S T and
C O M M U N I C A T E their thoughts and feelings, avoiding the predictable drama. To me, I feel it’s a cookie cutter style of a plot. 3.5 Stars. Jody is a good writer who I will read again as a solid, reliable stand-by.
I also have to say, I really appreciate the spiritual aspect that Jody brings to her writing. Lots of scripture, Godly wisdom and truths were sprinkled throughout. That makes her writing even more valuable to me.
This book was based on a marriage of convenience which I personally really enjoy reading about. I did find this was a bit predictable as to the direction it would go and I really dislike when the whole plot of a book is based on one character hiding the truth, while stressing about the other character finding out the truth. In books like this I just wish the characters would be H O N E S T and
C O M M U N I C A T E their thoughts and feelings, avoiding the predictable drama. To me, I feel it’s a cookie cutter style of a plot. 3.5 Stars. Jody is a good writer who I will read again as a solid, reliable stand-by.
I also have to say, I really appreciate the spiritual aspect that Jody brings to her writing. Lots of scripture, Godly wisdom and truths were sprinkled throughout. That makes her writing even more valuable to me.
February 23, 2016
{To girls who are Under age 14! Do not read this review! It's not a good book! Let's leave it alone!}
About this book:
“All she's ever wanted was a home. But stranded at Presque Isle port after their steamboat sank, Emma Chambers and her brother, Ryan, couldn't be farther away from security. While Ryan at least can find work, Emma can't even find a place to stay. An unlikely solution arises when the lighthouse keeper, who recently lost his wife and is struggling to raise his young son, arrives in town. A traveling preacher believes they might be the answer to each others' problems, and after a hasty marriage, Emma is headed back to the lighthouse with this handsome but quiet stranger.
But nothing in her wandering life has prepared her for suddenly being asked to raise a child and keep a house. Struggling at every turn, Emma also suspects Patrick may be keeping something hidden from her. In town she hears whispers about strange circumstances surrounding his previous wife's death, and it seems as though Emma's answered prayer for a home and family may actually be something much more dangerous.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Beacons of Hope” series. {There’s a Novella which is consider #.5 in the series which you can read our review Here! Book #2 will be coming out in Summer 2015.}
Spiritual Content- Emma hasn’t prayed in a long time & doesn’t think she remembers how to; She has to learn about God being in control and not her; Patrick prays; A few Scriptures are quoted; Talks about God & His plans; ‘H’s are capital; Mentions of church going & devotionals.
*Note: a “pit of h*ll”.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘hush’, an ‘idiot’ and a form of ‘stupid’; Curses are said but not written; Pirate attacks (barely-above-not-detailed); After her Mam died, Emma’s father drank and couldn’t keep a job; Fist Fighting (highest being semi-detailed); Blood (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions & Rememberings of box fighting (semi-detailed); *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*; Guns are pointed & shot.
Sexual Content- a ‘hussy’ and a ‘wh*re’; A Detailed Kiss & 2 Semi-Detailed kisses; Wishing & Wanting to Kiss; Talks of Kissing & Kisses; Thinking of kissing & kisses; Longing for more; Embraces (ranging from barely-above-not-detailed all the way to detailed); A Mention of being together & have children; 3 Mentions of wanting to be attractive to your spouse (Which Emma goes to Bertie for advice, very bad idea); 6 Mentions of sharing intimacies; 8 Mentions of expecting something when you’re married; 8 Mentions of laying/sleeping with someone; Rumors go around that Patrick has another women & sees her (*Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*) In Patrick’s past, *Spoiler**End of Spoiler*; Carrying to bed; Love, an practical (read: arranged) marriage, falling in love, the emotions & Longing, lots of longing.
-Emma Chambers
-Patrick Garraty
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1859
340 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star
Older High School Teens- One Star
My personal Rating- One Star
Whoa! Lots of Sexual Content! {Cue the “Ewww!”s!} This was my first full-length Jody Hedlund book, and sadly, it might just my last. This book reminded me at many times of “Short Straw Bride” by Karen Witemeyer (which I haven’t reviewed on here due to the Sexual Content). This book had an insane about of Sexual hints & mentions. Add Patrick’s past & annoying Bertie the Gossip/Traitor (saw that one coming) and you get a Banned Book.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House) for this review.
About this book:
“All she's ever wanted was a home. But stranded at Presque Isle port after their steamboat sank, Emma Chambers and her brother, Ryan, couldn't be farther away from security. While Ryan at least can find work, Emma can't even find a place to stay. An unlikely solution arises when the lighthouse keeper, who recently lost his wife and is struggling to raise his young son, arrives in town. A traveling preacher believes they might be the answer to each others' problems, and after a hasty marriage, Emma is headed back to the lighthouse with this handsome but quiet stranger.
But nothing in her wandering life has prepared her for suddenly being asked to raise a child and keep a house. Struggling at every turn, Emma also suspects Patrick may be keeping something hidden from her. In town she hears whispers about strange circumstances surrounding his previous wife's death, and it seems as though Emma's answered prayer for a home and family may actually be something much more dangerous.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Beacons of Hope” series. {There’s a Novella which is consider #.5 in the series which you can read our review Here! Book #2 will be coming out in Summer 2015.}
Spiritual Content- Emma hasn’t prayed in a long time & doesn’t think she remembers how to; She has to learn about God being in control and not her; Patrick prays; A few Scriptures are quoted; Talks about God & His plans; ‘H’s are capital; Mentions of church going & devotionals.
*Note: a “pit of h*ll”.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘hush’, an ‘idiot’ and a form of ‘stupid’; Curses are said but not written; Pirate attacks (barely-above-not-detailed); After her Mam died, Emma’s father drank and couldn’t keep a job; Fist Fighting (highest being semi-detailed); Blood (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions & Rememberings of box fighting (semi-detailed); *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*; Guns are pointed & shot.
Sexual Content- a ‘hussy’ and a ‘wh*re’; A Detailed Kiss & 2 Semi-Detailed kisses; Wishing & Wanting to Kiss; Talks of Kissing & Kisses; Thinking of kissing & kisses; Longing for more; Embraces (ranging from barely-above-not-detailed all the way to detailed); A Mention of being together & have children; 3 Mentions of wanting to be attractive to your spouse (Which Emma goes to Bertie for advice, very bad idea); 6 Mentions of sharing intimacies; 8 Mentions of expecting something when you’re married; 8 Mentions of laying/sleeping with someone; Rumors go around that Patrick has another women & sees her (*Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*) In Patrick’s past, *Spoiler**End of Spoiler*; Carrying to bed; Love, an practical (read: arranged) marriage, falling in love, the emotions & Longing, lots of longing.
-Emma Chambers
-Patrick Garraty
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1859
340 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star
Older High School Teens- One Star
My personal Rating- One Star
Whoa! Lots of Sexual Content! {Cue the “Ewww!”s!} This was my first full-length Jody Hedlund book, and sadly, it might just my last. This book reminded me at many times of “Short Straw Bride” by Karen Witemeyer (which I haven’t reviewed on here due to the Sexual Content). This book had an insane about of Sexual hints & mentions. Add Patrick’s past & annoying Bertie the Gossip/Traitor (saw that one coming) and you get a Banned Book.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House) for this review.
August 29, 2017
One of my favorite things about Jody Hedlund (though I've actually not read that much from her, just a lot ABOUT her books), is that she bases a lot of her books on people and/or events that actually existed. I feel like I'm really getting a good dose of history when I imagine the places and people in her novels. I love to learn from reading, as well as "escape", so that suits me nicely.
I loved the themes of forgiveness, hope, and redemption that were present throughout the novel. Patrick's realization at the end was particularly poignant.
The climax was a little "HUH? He really caved like THAT?" until I learned one more piece of information, but then it made a lot more sense.
And I just loved little Josiah, and his adorable two-year-old-handful-of-a-self.
Excellent plot, excellent characters, 4.5 stars.
I loved the themes of forgiveness, hope, and redemption that were present throughout the novel. Patrick's realization at the end was particularly poignant.
The climax was a little "HUH? He really caved like THAT?" until I learned one more piece of information, but then it made a lot more sense.
And I just loved little Josiah, and his adorable two-year-old-handful-of-a-self.
Excellent plot, excellent characters, 4.5 stars.
September 12, 2022
Love Unexpected is the first book in the Beacons of Hope series, however there is a prequel novella which I've read. I don't think it is important to read the novella before this story, but I did find it neat that the characters from that story were mentioned in this one. 😊
I loved Love Unexpected! The characters were amazing and I felt for them. Each had a past they were ashamed of and because of that the message of forgiveness and grace was so strong. I loved it.
The romance was sweet, although a little heated at times. Not anything too steamy, but I only recommend this to mature readers.
The ending was great and I had a difficult time putting the book down (finished it in one day!). I can't wait to read the next one.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I loved Love Unexpected! The characters were amazing and I felt for them. Each had a past they were ashamed of and because of that the message of forgiveness and grace was so strong. I loved it.
The romance was sweet, although a little heated at times. Not anything too steamy, but I only recommend this to mature readers.
The ending was great and I had a difficult time putting the book down (finished it in one day!). I can't wait to read the next one.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
December 3, 2014
Emma Chambers longs for a home. But when her steamboat sinks off the coast of Presque Isle, she's left destitute and with no where to go. Her brother takes a job working with the fishermen, but Emma can't stay with him. And the family who runs the general store won't let her remain with them. When widower Patrick Garrarty, the lighthouse keeper, arrives for his wife's funeral, an unlikely solution to both of their problems presents itself. He needs someone to care for his young son while he mans the light. Emma needs a home and a place to stay. A marriage of convenience is quickly proposed and executed by a traveling preacher, and Emma finds herself on her way to her new home with an energetic toddler and his handsome, though quiet father. Emma soon learns that Patrick is keeping something from her. Will Patrick's secret cost them both a chance at happiness?
I was asked the other day which Jody Hedlund book is the most appealing. My answer was cover-wise A Noble Groom, because after all the cover model is dreamy. But then I added that story-wise, it was a toss up between A Noble Groom and this one, Love Unexpected. Why do I find this book the most appealing of Jody's books? And why did I make a comment on Goodreads that this may be my favorite one of Jody's so far? That's what I'll try to answer in my review.
True to form, this novel is rich in historical detail and based on the life of a real Michigan lighthouse keeper. That is one element I've come to expect and look forward to in Jody's books. I know that I've enjoyed the novels she bases on the life of someone way more than the ones she doesn't. I've read, and own, all of Jody's books. I think that there were maybe two that I didn't care for as much as the others.
But why does this book stand out to me? I think it's because Patrick is not a perfect man. He's flawed. He's suffered. He has a past. He is real. And there is so much depth to him too. And Emma also shows that she's deep. She makes mistakes and regrets them. She's willing to forgive. But she is real as well. The author has written both Emma's and Patrick's struggles really well and made my heart ache for them.
I think another reason this one may be my favorite of Jody's is that it is the first in a series. I ADORE series because I don't necessarily have to say goodbye to characters I've grown to love. I know that the next book in the series will be about Ryan, Emma's brother.
I was very surprised by how quickly I was engrossed in the book. I got it in one day, started reading it, and soon was halfway finished with the book. Of course I had to put it down to finish up a couple of other books I was reviewing, but when I picked it up again a few days later, I was lost. Not lost in the sense that I didn't know where I'd left off, but lost in the sense that I was pulled into Emma's world. Time would fly by and before I knew it, it would be very late. At that point, I knew I couldn't bring the book to work to read on lunch breaks as I was so engrossed that I'd probably forget to end my lunch break. This is definitely one I'd savor.
I received this book for free from the author to help with the promotion of the book. It actually released yesterday, December 2, 2014. My thoughts and opinions are my own. In fact as part of my agreement to help promote the book, I will be purchasing a copy to give as a Christmas present to one of my family members. One that I know has never read one of Jody's books (Sorry Mom. You can borrow my copy!).
Recommended to fans of Karen Witemeyer, Jody Hedlund, Laura Frantz, Julie Lessman, historical fiction, historical romance.
Rating - 5 stars
I was asked the other day which Jody Hedlund book is the most appealing. My answer was cover-wise A Noble Groom, because after all the cover model is dreamy. But then I added that story-wise, it was a toss up between A Noble Groom and this one, Love Unexpected. Why do I find this book the most appealing of Jody's books? And why did I make a comment on Goodreads that this may be my favorite one of Jody's so far? That's what I'll try to answer in my review.
True to form, this novel is rich in historical detail and based on the life of a real Michigan lighthouse keeper. That is one element I've come to expect and look forward to in Jody's books. I know that I've enjoyed the novels she bases on the life of someone way more than the ones she doesn't. I've read, and own, all of Jody's books. I think that there were maybe two that I didn't care for as much as the others.
But why does this book stand out to me? I think it's because Patrick is not a perfect man. He's flawed. He's suffered. He has a past. He is real. And there is so much depth to him too. And Emma also shows that she's deep. She makes mistakes and regrets them. She's willing to forgive. But she is real as well. The author has written both Emma's and Patrick's struggles really well and made my heart ache for them.
I think another reason this one may be my favorite of Jody's is that it is the first in a series. I ADORE series because I don't necessarily have to say goodbye to characters I've grown to love. I know that the next book in the series will be about Ryan, Emma's brother.
I was very surprised by how quickly I was engrossed in the book. I got it in one day, started reading it, and soon was halfway finished with the book. Of course I had to put it down to finish up a couple of other books I was reviewing, but when I picked it up again a few days later, I was lost. Not lost in the sense that I didn't know where I'd left off, but lost in the sense that I was pulled into Emma's world. Time would fly by and before I knew it, it would be very late. At that point, I knew I couldn't bring the book to work to read on lunch breaks as I was so engrossed that I'd probably forget to end my lunch break. This is definitely one I'd savor.
I received this book for free from the author to help with the promotion of the book. It actually released yesterday, December 2, 2014. My thoughts and opinions are my own. In fact as part of my agreement to help promote the book, I will be purchasing a copy to give as a Christmas present to one of my family members. One that I know has never read one of Jody's books (Sorry Mom. You can borrow my copy!).
Recommended to fans of Karen Witemeyer, Jody Hedlund, Laura Frantz, Julie Lessman, historical fiction, historical romance.
Rating - 5 stars
July 23, 2019
3.5 Stars
This book isn’t a masterpiece, but it’s just what I needed. It was a fluffy, cute and simple book that really preached on belief of God and keeping faith. I don’t know if a God exists, I’ve never been truly religious, I’ve always existed in this vast gray area between being religious and an atheist. Not that this book makes me truly believe in God, but at a truly shitty time in my life it reminded me that hope was something I should never give up on.
This book isn’t a masterpiece, but it’s just what I needed. It was a fluffy, cute and simple book that really preached on belief of God and keeping faith. I don’t know if a God exists, I’ve never been truly religious, I’ve always existed in this vast gray area between being religious and an atheist. Not that this book makes me truly believe in God, but at a truly shitty time in my life it reminded me that hope was something I should never give up on.
June 2, 2015
4.5 stars-- Love Unexpected had everything I've come to love in a book by Jody Hedlund! Smooth writing, believable lead characters and an amazingly described blossoming romantic relationship between two people thrown into a marriage of convenience. Can't wait for the next book in the series!
June 25, 2018
2.5 stars.
I liked this one for its interesting historical premise and redemption message, but not much else. Unfortunately, the secrets were dragged out for a long time, the MCs really didn’t communicate enough, and the naïveté of the h frustrated me. As it was, I still would have appreciated an epilogue, but there wasn’t one. This was ok inspirational historical romance, but I wouldn't recommend it unless you like lighthouses.
ETA: The resolution of the was also a little too easy. I felt the need to mention that since many readers prefer their stories to be a bit more realistic.
I liked this one for its interesting historical premise and redemption message, but not much else. Unfortunately, the secrets were dragged out for a long time, the MCs really didn’t communicate enough, and the naïveté of the h frustrated me. As it was, I still would have appreciated an epilogue, but there wasn’t one. This was ok inspirational historical romance, but I wouldn't recommend it unless you like lighthouses.
ETA: The resolution of the was also a little too easy. I felt the need to mention that since many readers prefer their stories to be a bit more realistic.
August 17, 2020
The first book in the Beacons of Hope series by Jody Hedlund was an OK read. Jody bases her series on the lighthouses of the Great Lakes, and the history of the region was interesting and made a good background for the story. The story itself had a good premise: a marriage of convenience between a lighthouse keeper with a young child, who had been recently widowed and a young immigrant woman who needs a home. There are secrets on both sides and a lack of openness cloaked in a "let the past go and live in the present" attitude. Unfortunately, a person's past cannot help but impact the present life, as both main characters soon learn to their regret.
While I enjoyed the story, there are two things about it that frustrate me as a reader, and I see them a lot in contemporary fiction. There is the cat-and-mouse game between the main characters - the one step forward and two steps back dance, usually based on a lack of openness and understanding between them. While this likely a plot device to build interest and suspense, it makes me as a reader want to yell at the characters to just lay their cards on the table and get on with it.
The second plot device that frustrates me is saying right out that a character has a secret past, and then letting slip one tiny detail at a time, or giving us a glimpse of an action through a keyhole (so to speak) that cannot be explained by what we know so far. I think this novel takes this a little to extremes, and I found it frustrating.
While I will probably look at the next book in the series, if this is the author's way of writing all of her stories, I may move on to something else. A story should draw you in and not drive you to frustration with the main characters.
And by the way, the cover of this book is awesome and beautiful and I would rate it even higher than the story itself.
While I enjoyed the story, there are two things about it that frustrate me as a reader, and I see them a lot in contemporary fiction. There is the cat-and-mouse game between the main characters - the one step forward and two steps back dance, usually based on a lack of openness and understanding between them. While this likely a plot device to build interest and suspense, it makes me as a reader want to yell at the characters to just lay their cards on the table and get on with it.
The second plot device that frustrates me is saying right out that a character has a secret past, and then letting slip one tiny detail at a time, or giving us a glimpse of an action through a keyhole (so to speak) that cannot be explained by what we know so far. I think this novel takes this a little to extremes, and I found it frustrating.
While I will probably look at the next book in the series, if this is the author's way of writing all of her stories, I may move on to something else. A story should draw you in and not drive you to frustration with the main characters.
And by the way, the cover of this book is awesome and beautiful and I would rate it even higher than the story itself.
February 4, 2016
Emma Chambers has always longed for a home of her own, but she’s spent most of her adult life following her brother, Ryan, as he searches for work. Each time Ryan takes on a new job, Emma hopes they’ll settle down for a while, long enough for her to feel secure. When the steamboat taking them to Detroit—on yet another job hunt—is set upon by pirates, Emma and Ryan find themselves forced to temporarily settle at Presque Isle while Ryan attempts to earn back the money the pirates stole from them. While Ryan is able to earn his living by chopping wood, Emma quickly discovers that the inhabitants of Presque Isle have no use for a single woman. None of them, that is, except Patrick Garraty, the lighthouse keeper.
Patrick doesn’t have long to grieve the untimely death of his wife, given that he has a lighthouse to keep and a toddler son to raise. He has no idea how he’s supposed to balance both these tasks when his work requires him to be away from his son every night, tending the light in the tower. When the travelling preacher introduces him to Emma, a woman in need of a home, he isn’t sure if he’s doing the right thing in marrying her. While his son desperately needs a mother, and Emma longs for security, Patrick worries that she’ll be just as unhappy as his first wife. Can any woman be happy with a man like him, with the secrets that his past holds? His first wife was disgusted when she learned of his prior life—will Emma react similarly? Should Patrick keep the truth from her, for the sake of their family?
Spending many a holiday along the coasts of Scotland, I have fond memories of the various lighthouses I visited as a child. I’m fairly certain that many of them were no longer in use (in fact, at least one had been turned into a tea room) but the occupation of the lightkeeper and the immense responsibility their position held has always intrigued me. The realities of the pressures that lightkeepers faced were revealed to me in all their fullness in Love Unexpected. As beautiful and fascinating as lighthouses may be, I didn’t envy Patrick’s job in the slightest. Having finished the book, I’m still unsure as to how he managed to tend the light, make repairs, fish, cook, and care for his son on so little sleep—even with Emma’s help! Lightkeeping is not a glamorous job, nor does it pay well. Patrick was definitely a refreshing change from the titled aristocrats in other romance novels I read this month.
I imagine that Emma’s position is not unlike that of many displaced Irish immigrants in this period. Many Irish children were left without a parent—or both—following the potato famine, or even the journey that took them away from their homeland. Emma and her brother want different things out of life, but she doesn’t have any option other than to keep following Ryan until she can find a husband. I’m sure that many readers can relate to Emma’s longing for a home, especially if—like her—you can barely remember what “home” feels like. That said, I’m not sure if I could be as brave as Emma. Even with the recommendation of a preacher, could you marry a man you’ve only met once?
Love Unexpected definitely falls into the “marriage of convenience” category of romance novels, which is a personal favourite. I really enjoyed the way that Emma and Patrick’s relationship developed. Given that their family lives at the lighthouse, a fair distance from the rest of Presque Isle, a large part of the book is focused purely on the interactions between Emma, Patrick and Patrick’s son, Josiah. We get to witness the hard work that goes into running a lighthouse, caring for a toddler and the mundane tasks of keeping a family in food and clean clothing. I appreciated that Emma wasn’t a natural when it came to cooking and housekeeping, and that she struggled to calm Josiah’s tantrums. I’ve read too many books that feature heroines who take to the task of keeping house perfectly, in spite of their previous lack of experience. Given the recent and very sudden loss of his mother, it seemed entirely realistic that Josiah pitched a fit whenever his dad set off in his boat and left him with Emma. Emma’s struggles to keep up with the day-to-day tasks of keeping house and looking after Josiah made her all the more a relatable character. I also appreciated that Patrick was not a stranger when it came to cooking and cleaning. I’d love to see more historical heroes who pitch in to help their women around the home!
I was initially cautious about the conflict in this story, given that it largely stemmed from secrets that Patrick was keeping from Emma, and gossip that was spread about the true nature of these secrets. I’m not a big fan of the Big Misunderstanding/Lack of Communication trope, mostly because I’m far more likely to discuss an issue as soon as it arises, rather than overreact and run away before it can be explained. Thankfully, Emma was a woman after my own heart, and did make an effort to sort out matters with her new husband. I don’t want to give too much away about the conflict in this novel, but I will say that it involves pirates! Who else loves a good pirate romance? I’m sure I’m not the only one.
With Patrick running his lighthouse, fishing and brooding over his dark past, and Emma learning the cook, washing mountains of laundry and chasing Josiah around, it did seem like our hero and heroine would never have time to fall in love. And I suppose that their situation probably represented a true marriage of convenience, where a man seeks a wife because he literally has no time to tend to his home and children. Do not fear—there is plenty of romance in this book! It takes a while to develop, but I loved the shy interactions between Emma and Patrick. Readers will soon learn just why Patrick is so hesitant with his new bride, and the truth will endear him to them all the more. There were some incredibly romantic scenes in the lighthouse that I absolutely adored. And since this is a novel about a married couple, the romance in this novel pertains to more than just kissing—but without being overly explicit. I always appreciate it when Christian novels hint at true happily wedded bliss. This isn’t something to be hidden away, folks!
Love Unexpected is a beautiful novel full of romance and redemption. Patrick and Emma are realistically flawed protagonists who are able to put aside past secrets and gossip to forge a future together. Since none of us enters a relationship without any lingering baggage, their story is a great reminder of the effort that is often required to make a marriage work.
Review title provided by Bethany House.
Patrick doesn’t have long to grieve the untimely death of his wife, given that he has a lighthouse to keep and a toddler son to raise. He has no idea how he’s supposed to balance both these tasks when his work requires him to be away from his son every night, tending the light in the tower. When the travelling preacher introduces him to Emma, a woman in need of a home, he isn’t sure if he’s doing the right thing in marrying her. While his son desperately needs a mother, and Emma longs for security, Patrick worries that she’ll be just as unhappy as his first wife. Can any woman be happy with a man like him, with the secrets that his past holds? His first wife was disgusted when she learned of his prior life—will Emma react similarly? Should Patrick keep the truth from her, for the sake of their family?
Spending many a holiday along the coasts of Scotland, I have fond memories of the various lighthouses I visited as a child. I’m fairly certain that many of them were no longer in use (in fact, at least one had been turned into a tea room) but the occupation of the lightkeeper and the immense responsibility their position held has always intrigued me. The realities of the pressures that lightkeepers faced were revealed to me in all their fullness in Love Unexpected. As beautiful and fascinating as lighthouses may be, I didn’t envy Patrick’s job in the slightest. Having finished the book, I’m still unsure as to how he managed to tend the light, make repairs, fish, cook, and care for his son on so little sleep—even with Emma’s help! Lightkeeping is not a glamorous job, nor does it pay well. Patrick was definitely a refreshing change from the titled aristocrats in other romance novels I read this month.
I imagine that Emma’s position is not unlike that of many displaced Irish immigrants in this period. Many Irish children were left without a parent—or both—following the potato famine, or even the journey that took them away from their homeland. Emma and her brother want different things out of life, but she doesn’t have any option other than to keep following Ryan until she can find a husband. I’m sure that many readers can relate to Emma’s longing for a home, especially if—like her—you can barely remember what “home” feels like. That said, I’m not sure if I could be as brave as Emma. Even with the recommendation of a preacher, could you marry a man you’ve only met once?
Love Unexpected definitely falls into the “marriage of convenience” category of romance novels, which is a personal favourite. I really enjoyed the way that Emma and Patrick’s relationship developed. Given that their family lives at the lighthouse, a fair distance from the rest of Presque Isle, a large part of the book is focused purely on the interactions between Emma, Patrick and Patrick’s son, Josiah. We get to witness the hard work that goes into running a lighthouse, caring for a toddler and the mundane tasks of keeping a family in food and clean clothing. I appreciated that Emma wasn’t a natural when it came to cooking and housekeeping, and that she struggled to calm Josiah’s tantrums. I’ve read too many books that feature heroines who take to the task of keeping house perfectly, in spite of their previous lack of experience. Given the recent and very sudden loss of his mother, it seemed entirely realistic that Josiah pitched a fit whenever his dad set off in his boat and left him with Emma. Emma’s struggles to keep up with the day-to-day tasks of keeping house and looking after Josiah made her all the more a relatable character. I also appreciated that Patrick was not a stranger when it came to cooking and cleaning. I’d love to see more historical heroes who pitch in to help their women around the home!
I was initially cautious about the conflict in this story, given that it largely stemmed from secrets that Patrick was keeping from Emma, and gossip that was spread about the true nature of these secrets. I’m not a big fan of the Big Misunderstanding/Lack of Communication trope, mostly because I’m far more likely to discuss an issue as soon as it arises, rather than overreact and run away before it can be explained. Thankfully, Emma was a woman after my own heart, and did make an effort to sort out matters with her new husband. I don’t want to give too much away about the conflict in this novel, but I will say that it involves pirates! Who else loves a good pirate romance? I’m sure I’m not the only one.
With Patrick running his lighthouse, fishing and brooding over his dark past, and Emma learning the cook, washing mountains of laundry and chasing Josiah around, it did seem like our hero and heroine would never have time to fall in love. And I suppose that their situation probably represented a true marriage of convenience, where a man seeks a wife because he literally has no time to tend to his home and children. Do not fear—there is plenty of romance in this book! It takes a while to develop, but I loved the shy interactions between Emma and Patrick. Readers will soon learn just why Patrick is so hesitant with his new bride, and the truth will endear him to them all the more. There were some incredibly romantic scenes in the lighthouse that I absolutely adored. And since this is a novel about a married couple, the romance in this novel pertains to more than just kissing—but without being overly explicit. I always appreciate it when Christian novels hint at true happily wedded bliss. This isn’t something to be hidden away, folks!
Love Unexpected is a beautiful novel full of romance and redemption. Patrick and Emma are realistically flawed protagonists who are able to put aside past secrets and gossip to forge a future together. Since none of us enters a relationship without any lingering baggage, their story is a great reminder of the effort that is often required to make a marriage work.
Review title provided by Bethany House.
September 9, 2019
This was a sweet love story. When I read a Hedlund story I know I am going to get light preaching, turning to God in times of need. A sweet love story and always a little tragedy. I also know she is a bit repetitious in there feelings especially the negative feelings about how the other person can't possibly love them because they are not good enough. I know this going in and I'm ok with it with her. A little cheese is fun to read every once in a while.
July 18, 2022
Sweet story, didn’t love the narrator for the audiobook, but the story was enjoyable. Not my favorite of Jody Hedlund’s (I mean, can you really compete with the Colorado Cowboy series) but I am glad I picked it up and immersed myself in this light house romance.
February 15, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
Love Unexpected took me by surprise. The first two paragraphs jumpstarted the story with a pirate attack, which snapped me to attention and piqued my interest. It slowed into a sweet romance that kept me engaged in every chapter. I felt I was falling in love with the characters just as much as they were falling for each other.
There’s a strong similarity to one of my favorite movies, Love Comes Softly. In that movie, after Marty’s husband dies, she marries Clark so she’ll have a place to stay over the winter, and she can help raise his daughter in the meantime. In Love Unexpected, Patrick’s wife dies and then he marries Emma so she can help with his son and the house while he tends the light, and Emma will have a safe place to stay in a town full of lonely men. It’s the differences between these two similar stories that make each on its own unique and entertaining entity.
Author Jody Hedlund artfully crafted a beautiful tale of a marriage of convenience, yet she managed to revive an overused plot by adding her own style to it. Who wouldn’t love a story that features pirates, a lighthouse, stunning Presque Isle, and characters you come to love—and a few you love to hate? The twists Jody brought into that juicy mix created a great atmosphere for a cozy romance tinged with mystery.
As a lifelong fan of foreign accents, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of Irish accents in the two lead characters (and the heroine’s brother), who were Irish immigrants. The only hints within the dialogue that Patrick, Emma, and Ryan were from Ireland were occasional “nay’s” and “aye’s.” I kept forgetting they were Irish and instead heard American accents in my mind. I appreciated the reminders in the narration, but it would have created better continuity if the characters’ heritage was woven into the ways in which they spoke.
That being said, this charming story held plenty of surprises and sweet moments to carve out a spot in my heart. I’m looking forward to reading more novels from the talented Jody Hedlund.
Love Unexpected took me by surprise. The first two paragraphs jumpstarted the story with a pirate attack, which snapped me to attention and piqued my interest. It slowed into a sweet romance that kept me engaged in every chapter. I felt I was falling in love with the characters just as much as they were falling for each other.
There’s a strong similarity to one of my favorite movies, Love Comes Softly. In that movie, after Marty’s husband dies, she marries Clark so she’ll have a place to stay over the winter, and she can help raise his daughter in the meantime. In Love Unexpected, Patrick’s wife dies and then he marries Emma so she can help with his son and the house while he tends the light, and Emma will have a safe place to stay in a town full of lonely men. It’s the differences between these two similar stories that make each on its own unique and entertaining entity.
Author Jody Hedlund artfully crafted a beautiful tale of a marriage of convenience, yet she managed to revive an overused plot by adding her own style to it. Who wouldn’t love a story that features pirates, a lighthouse, stunning Presque Isle, and characters you come to love—and a few you love to hate? The twists Jody brought into that juicy mix created a great atmosphere for a cozy romance tinged with mystery.
As a lifelong fan of foreign accents, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of Irish accents in the two lead characters (and the heroine’s brother), who were Irish immigrants. The only hints within the dialogue that Patrick, Emma, and Ryan were from Ireland were occasional “nay’s” and “aye’s.” I kept forgetting they were Irish and instead heard American accents in my mind. I appreciated the reminders in the narration, but it would have created better continuity if the characters’ heritage was woven into the ways in which they spoke.
That being said, this charming story held plenty of surprises and sweet moments to carve out a spot in my heart. I’m looking forward to reading more novels from the talented Jody Hedlund.
December 15, 2014
Love Unexpected. Such a simple phrase. Can love be expected? Is love expected? I like this title. Ms. Jody Hedlund selected a widely accepted and searched two words for the title of her new book, "Love Unexpected (Beacon of Hope Series Book #1)". As you can see, it is the start of a series, and it's a promising start.
Ms. Hedlund got me hooked on the first chapter. The start was riveting, as Emma, our main female character, along with her brother, Ryan was on a ship to a new land for job opportunities. Nothing special there, but then pirates attacked, and they were stranded into sea. And they are saved by our main character, Patrick.
Pirates have always been a hot topic throughout the ages, and in recent years from the Pirates of the Carribean franchise, to Disney's Jake and the Pirates characters, the topic doesn't seem to slow down. To be honest, I thought Ryan will be missing during the shipwreck until the end of this book and his story truly begins in another book of the series. However, with that said, it was not the case. Even though he's not the main character and he shows up randomly throughout the book, he's there. So there are elements of surprises.
Back to Emma & Patrick. She's a shy and hard working girl, with a sense of taking responsibility for all things that goes wrong. Is it a good thing? I don't think so. I'm usually partial to at least one of the main characters in books I read, but unfortunately, neither Emma or Patrick stands out to me. I find Emma naive and her stupidity in befriending ____ is unbelievable. Someone who's always out to berate your husband and yourself, how do you trust that person enough to share all your secrets or personal matters with? It just doesn't make sense to me. Patrick, on the other hand, I do find more believable, from his guilt to his love for his family. However, this character flaws in where he assumes everything about Emma, without ever opening his mouth to ask her. (I guess it goes for the same for Emma too, where she assumes a lot about Patrick, without asking, which I find it more disconcerting, when she starts off with let bygones be bygones.) As to characters, I find them all lacking in some aspect, and that is a good thing, because it's important for readers to see the growth of the characters. I do love both characters development with the Patrick's son. Even so, I just can't seem to fall hard for any of these characters.
As to plot, I do find it moving along quite well. It started well, and throughout the story, I was interested in finding out what will happen or how will this move on. Therefore, as a story, I do believe Ms. Hedlund did a great job. I am an avid historical novel reader, so there are areas that as a person in the 21st century I may find ridiculous, but for that time period, it can and is believable.
All in all, I do recommend this book for the story and the pretty cover, but if you prefer a book with strong character developments, don't have your hopes up.
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House for an honest review.
http://justcommonly.blogspot.com/2014...
Ms. Hedlund got me hooked on the first chapter. The start was riveting, as Emma, our main female character, along with her brother, Ryan was on a ship to a new land for job opportunities. Nothing special there, but then pirates attacked, and they were stranded into sea. And they are saved by our main character, Patrick.
Pirates have always been a hot topic throughout the ages, and in recent years from the Pirates of the Carribean franchise, to Disney's Jake and the Pirates characters, the topic doesn't seem to slow down. To be honest, I thought Ryan will be missing during the shipwreck until the end of this book and his story truly begins in another book of the series. However, with that said, it was not the case. Even though he's not the main character and he shows up randomly throughout the book, he's there. So there are elements of surprises.
Back to Emma & Patrick. She's a shy and hard working girl, with a sense of taking responsibility for all things that goes wrong. Is it a good thing? I don't think so. I'm usually partial to at least one of the main characters in books I read, but unfortunately, neither Emma or Patrick stands out to me. I find Emma naive and her stupidity in befriending ____ is unbelievable. Someone who's always out to berate your husband and yourself, how do you trust that person enough to share all your secrets or personal matters with? It just doesn't make sense to me. Patrick, on the other hand, I do find more believable, from his guilt to his love for his family. However, this character flaws in where he assumes everything about Emma, without ever opening his mouth to ask her. (I guess it goes for the same for Emma too, where she assumes a lot about Patrick, without asking, which I find it more disconcerting, when she starts off with let bygones be bygones.) As to characters, I find them all lacking in some aspect, and that is a good thing, because it's important for readers to see the growth of the characters. I do love both characters development with the Patrick's son. Even so, I just can't seem to fall hard for any of these characters.
As to plot, I do find it moving along quite well. It started well, and throughout the story, I was interested in finding out what will happen or how will this move on. Therefore, as a story, I do believe Ms. Hedlund did a great job. I am an avid historical novel reader, so there are areas that as a person in the 21st century I may find ridiculous, but for that time period, it can and is believable.
All in all, I do recommend this book for the story and the pretty cover, but if you prefer a book with strong character developments, don't have your hopes up.
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House for an honest review.
http://justcommonly.blogspot.com/2014...
December 27, 2014
Love Unexpected, the first book in the Beacons of Hope series, is a tender story of hope and redemption. Charmingly set in Michigan by the sea and lighthouses, this sweet story is a heart- warming one that is sure to delight and inspire.
One of my favorite parts of this story was the setting and characters. There is just something very calming about lighthouses; and the tenderness of the storyline combined with the backdrop made for a very pleasurable read, which I thoroughly enjoyed. While reading this book, I could almost feel the sea spraying on my face, and feel the wind blowing my hair. I easily got into the story and connected with the characters. The story was so sweet and endearing, and I loved reading Patrick and Emma's story.
Each of the characters were meaningful, and I'd have to say that my favorite was Patrick's son Josiah. I've always particularly enjoyed stories where the story has a young child, as it really helps bring the characters personalities out. I think this was especially true for Patrick and Emma. Josiah had such a huge part in bringing out the other characters personalities, and I loved seeing him in the story and the warmth and humor that he brought into the novel. I also admired Patrick's character. He was such an honorable person, and I loved learning more about him as the story progressed! The mystery aspect of his past kept me turning pages!
The story was very easy to get into, and had a nice mix of tender romance with a hint of mystery. The story flowed very consistently, and there weren't any dry bits that hindered the reading experience. The story line itself was masterfully written, and I loved seeing how the themes of love and redemption came out.
Hedlund's writing style is so easy and fun to read, and I loved how she combined a sweet story that is interesting, with historical bits that added even more to the story. I loved how the story was loosely based on a true story of a light-keeper. I always enjoy stories that are based on real events as they make learning history fun and memorable, and this story is no exception!
In all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to fans of sweet historical fiction! I eagerly await book number two in the Beacons of Hope series!
D I S C L A I M E R :: I received a complementary copy of Love Unexpected from the author and publisher, for the purpose of this review. I was not paid to promote this book, and all thoughts expressed are completely honest and unbiased.
One of my favorite parts of this story was the setting and characters. There is just something very calming about lighthouses; and the tenderness of the storyline combined with the backdrop made for a very pleasurable read, which I thoroughly enjoyed. While reading this book, I could almost feel the sea spraying on my face, and feel the wind blowing my hair. I easily got into the story and connected with the characters. The story was so sweet and endearing, and I loved reading Patrick and Emma's story.
Each of the characters were meaningful, and I'd have to say that my favorite was Patrick's son Josiah. I've always particularly enjoyed stories where the story has a young child, as it really helps bring the characters personalities out. I think this was especially true for Patrick and Emma. Josiah had such a huge part in bringing out the other characters personalities, and I loved seeing him in the story and the warmth and humor that he brought into the novel. I also admired Patrick's character. He was such an honorable person, and I loved learning more about him as the story progressed! The mystery aspect of his past kept me turning pages!
The story was very easy to get into, and had a nice mix of tender romance with a hint of mystery. The story flowed very consistently, and there weren't any dry bits that hindered the reading experience. The story line itself was masterfully written, and I loved seeing how the themes of love and redemption came out.
Hedlund's writing style is so easy and fun to read, and I loved how she combined a sweet story that is interesting, with historical bits that added even more to the story. I loved how the story was loosely based on a true story of a light-keeper. I always enjoy stories that are based on real events as they make learning history fun and memorable, and this story is no exception!
In all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to fans of sweet historical fiction! I eagerly await book number two in the Beacons of Hope series!
D I S C L A I M E R :: I received a complementary copy of Love Unexpected from the author and publisher, for the purpose of this review. I was not paid to promote this book, and all thoughts expressed are completely honest and unbiased.
December 1, 2014
This book was just what I needed to jumpstart my book reading binge. I have a number of books I need to read and review by the end of the year, and if they are half as interesting to read as Love Unexpected, I'll fly through them all. Marriage of convenience stories will never get old. While this was a little more preachy than what I'm used to of late, the romance was fabulous. No skirting around the issue-- the sparks were there between Emma and Patrick right from the get go. Did I mention our hero is Irish? I was a goner after his first utterance of the word lass. Yes. Please. All romance heroes from here on out should be Irishmen with lighthouses. Authors, please take note and pen your stories accordingly.
Love Unexpected was an unexpected joy to read. Yes. I went there, but seriously, I just read this straight through in practically one sitting. Considering I've become a bit jaded when it comes to Christian fiction lately, I'd say this is a pretty good sign. Hedlund's first novels were some of my favorites and I felt this brought back that style of romance that I fell in love with when I first came across her books. Sweet and passionate with a lovely setting on Lake Huron, I couldn't put it down. If you're just looking for a simple love story with no frivolity to get you through the stress of the holidays, then you might want to put a rush order on Love Unexpected.
As the first in the start of a new series, I just hope the next two books can live up to it. Hopefully, a handful of there characters who popped up in the book will get their own happy endings. I really connected with Emma's brother and Patrick's family too. 2015 is too long to wait for book number two!
~ My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ~
*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
Love Unexpected was an unexpected joy to read. Yes. I went there, but seriously, I just read this straight through in practically one sitting. Considering I've become a bit jaded when it comes to Christian fiction lately, I'd say this is a pretty good sign. Hedlund's first novels were some of my favorites and I felt this brought back that style of romance that I fell in love with when I first came across her books. Sweet and passionate with a lovely setting on Lake Huron, I couldn't put it down. If you're just looking for a simple love story with no frivolity to get you through the stress of the holidays, then you might want to put a rush order on Love Unexpected.
As the first in the start of a new series, I just hope the next two books can live up to it. Hopefully, a handful of there characters who popped up in the book will get their own happy endings. I really connected with Emma's brother and Patrick's family too. 2015 is too long to wait for book number two!
~ My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ~
*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
November 12, 2014
This is a good book but fairly predictable. Set in my home state of Michigan, where pirates weren't a particularly big issue, it is interesting to read a novel where Great Lakes pirates are included. Set primarily on Presque Isle at a lighthouse, the limited setting with mainly the hero and heroine restricts some of the scope of the story. I found myself getting irritated with the heroine for revealing information to a busybody that she should have kept to myself and at the hero for failing to reveal facts that he should have to Emma, the heroine. But I read to the end to find out if I was right about my suppositions and I was. Having a hero who you're unsure of, as to whether he is hero material or not was somewhat disconcerting in this historical romance. The author's love for lighthouses and interest shines through and there is a nice author's note at the end. I received a copy from NetGalley for my honest review.
December 23, 2014
Another winner by Jody Hedlund! Great start to a new series. This one has it all: action, mystery, romance and historical detail, plus some really likeable characters, including an adorable little boy. There are some seriously sigh worthy moments too. It had me reading late into the night. Interesting facts surrounding the history of the lighthouse and the real couple this story is based on included in the index. Recommend for Christian historical fiction fans!
September 19, 2017
3.5 stars
Cute, predictable, standard journey of faith and redemption. I liked it but rushed through the drama! in the last section. It wasn't holding my interest but I liked the way everything tied together at the end. The little boy was written well too, I have a soft spot for kids that are written appropriate for their ages. Hard to find sometimes in books.
Cute, predictable, standard journey of faith and redemption. I liked it but rushed through the drama! in the last section. It wasn't holding my interest but I liked the way everything tied together at the end. The little boy was written well too, I have a soft spot for kids that are written appropriate for their ages. Hard to find sometimes in books.
December 21, 2014
I like books with lighthouse settings. What an important job to take on, yet with a feeling of isolation and freedom for those inclined to live a quiet life. I've sometimes thought it would be perfect for an introvert who still wants to make a difference. It seems Patrick Garraty thought so too.
The setting creates a nice, melancholic feel for the plot, in which two people have their own desperate reasons to get married, having just met each other.
Gentle-natured Emma, who hadn't been brought up to be domestic, is thrown in the deep end! I felt her side of the arrangement involved a lot more stress than Patrick's. Most women get a chance to ease themselves into housework and childcare, without suddenly shouldering the full load with no experience. At times, she seems a bit saintly to be true. I hope not to sound like a grouch here, but I've had to babysit kids like Josiah, and find it incredible that never once was Emma tempted to call him, 'Little Menace' instead of that never-ending, 'Little Love', even in her thoughts. He was running rings around her, and she was letting him be boss. Although Bertie Burnham is not the most lovable character, I was pleased when she pointed this out.
Although I found the novel a breeze to read, I did get frustrated with the two main characters. Their nervous and secretive attitudes cause many hassles. Emma quietly decides what she thinks will work best for those she cares for (Patrick and Ryan) without giving them any idea what she's thinking, so she has no way of getting feedback from them. Perhaps it's natural that Patrick returns the same treatment, withholding important family information which Emma would surely want to know. No wonder when trouble comes, they are both left reeling, because they still don't know each other as well as they could at that stage.
It's good when child characters strengthen the plot instead of being just tacked on. Josiah controls a lot of the action. I'm sure we've all come across toddlers like him (or maybe you've had one or two). He has such a big, overbearing personality, they have to plan their own schedules around when he's in bed. He's demanding, he pushes boundaries, sometimes he makes me exhausted reading about him. There's nobody like a two-year-old for clinging to someone's leg one moment and throwing a tantrum the next. Not every character can believably undergo mood transplants to suit the story, but Josiah can easily.
I think my favourite character is Emma's brother, Ryan. He's always direct, a refreshing change from all the bottling up done by the two main characters. Ryan seems to have a more common-sense and decisive approach than his sister's, and I wouldn't mind reading a novel with him as the main character.
I like the nice little teaser for Jody Hedlund's novella, with the same setting. A fascinating bit a history between another young couple at the same lighthouse is hinted at within the pages of this story, and intrigued me enough to go and get hold of their story, 'Out of the Storm' which I'll review soon.
Thanks to Bethany House and Net Galley for my review copy.
The setting creates a nice, melancholic feel for the plot, in which two people have their own desperate reasons to get married, having just met each other.
Gentle-natured Emma, who hadn't been brought up to be domestic, is thrown in the deep end! I felt her side of the arrangement involved a lot more stress than Patrick's. Most women get a chance to ease themselves into housework and childcare, without suddenly shouldering the full load with no experience. At times, she seems a bit saintly to be true. I hope not to sound like a grouch here, but I've had to babysit kids like Josiah, and find it incredible that never once was Emma tempted to call him, 'Little Menace' instead of that never-ending, 'Little Love', even in her thoughts. He was running rings around her, and she was letting him be boss. Although Bertie Burnham is not the most lovable character, I was pleased when she pointed this out.
Although I found the novel a breeze to read, I did get frustrated with the two main characters. Their nervous and secretive attitudes cause many hassles. Emma quietly decides what she thinks will work best for those she cares for (Patrick and Ryan) without giving them any idea what she's thinking, so she has no way of getting feedback from them. Perhaps it's natural that Patrick returns the same treatment, withholding important family information which Emma would surely want to know. No wonder when trouble comes, they are both left reeling, because they still don't know each other as well as they could at that stage.
It's good when child characters strengthen the plot instead of being just tacked on. Josiah controls a lot of the action. I'm sure we've all come across toddlers like him (or maybe you've had one or two). He has such a big, overbearing personality, they have to plan their own schedules around when he's in bed. He's demanding, he pushes boundaries, sometimes he makes me exhausted reading about him. There's nobody like a two-year-old for clinging to someone's leg one moment and throwing a tantrum the next. Not every character can believably undergo mood transplants to suit the story, but Josiah can easily.
I think my favourite character is Emma's brother, Ryan. He's always direct, a refreshing change from all the bottling up done by the two main characters. Ryan seems to have a more common-sense and decisive approach than his sister's, and I wouldn't mind reading a novel with him as the main character.
I like the nice little teaser for Jody Hedlund's novella, with the same setting. A fascinating bit a history between another young couple at the same lighthouse is hinted at within the pages of this story, and intrigued me enough to go and get hold of their story, 'Out of the Storm' which I'll review soon.
Thanks to Bethany House and Net Galley for my review copy.
May 5, 2015
Love Unexpected kept me turning the pages long after I should’ve been asleep, and I enjoyed every minute of reading it. I’d definitely recommend this for fans of historical romance, particularly if you’re into lighthouses, stories of redemption, marriage-of-convenience stories, and/or pirates.
I loved the emotional vulnerability of the characters because I thought it added a real poignancy as their relationship developed over the course of the story. Husband and wife each entered the marriage with insecurities arising from their past that caused them to doubt whether their new spouse could ever come to love them. Their fear of rejection makes it that much harder to reach out, but also that much more wonderful when they do. Definitely some sigh-worthy moments here as they get to know and trust each other. ☺
As if fear of rejection weren’t enough for a newlywed couple to deal with, Emma also has to figure out how to parent a two-year-old and cook without burning everything from biscuits to soup, while Patrick has to keep the arrival of an unsavory element from his past from jeopardizing his job and his relationship with Emma. Plot twists and turns, plus a bit of mystery serve to keep things interesting from beginning to end.
This is the first novel in Jody Hedlund’s Beacons of Hope series, but there’s also a lovely prequel novella called Out of the Storm that I reviewed at EIR a few months ago. Chronologically, the novella comes first, and its story comes up in this one as an example of hope, but honestly I think you could read them in either order without missing anything. I’ve enjoyed both so far, and I’m looking forward to the release of the second full novel in the series, Hearts Made Whole, coming in June.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley for review purposes.
This review first appeared on the Edgy Inspirational Romance blog.
I loved the emotional vulnerability of the characters because I thought it added a real poignancy as their relationship developed over the course of the story. Husband and wife each entered the marriage with insecurities arising from their past that caused them to doubt whether their new spouse could ever come to love them. Their fear of rejection makes it that much harder to reach out, but also that much more wonderful when they do. Definitely some sigh-worthy moments here as they get to know and trust each other. ☺
As if fear of rejection weren’t enough for a newlywed couple to deal with, Emma also has to figure out how to parent a two-year-old and cook without burning everything from biscuits to soup, while Patrick has to keep the arrival of an unsavory element from his past from jeopardizing his job and his relationship with Emma. Plot twists and turns, plus a bit of mystery serve to keep things interesting from beginning to end.
This is the first novel in Jody Hedlund’s Beacons of Hope series, but there’s also a lovely prequel novella called Out of the Storm that I reviewed at EIR a few months ago. Chronologically, the novella comes first, and its story comes up in this one as an example of hope, but honestly I think you could read them in either order without missing anything. I’ve enjoyed both so far, and I’m looking forward to the release of the second full novel in the series, Hearts Made Whole, coming in June.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley for review purposes.
This review first appeared on the Edgy Inspirational Romance blog.
March 15, 2021
Goodness gracious, Ms. Hedlund just gets better with each book!
Emma Chambers and her brother Ryan are left to fend for themselves after their steamboat is sunk by pirates just off the shore of Presque Island.
Emma doesn't want to be a burden to her brother as he tries to provide for himself, so she accepts the proposal of the local lighthouse keeper, Patrick Garraty who recently lost his wife, and is struggling to care for his young son while balancing his duties in the lighthouse.
But Patrick has secrets from his past that threaten to rob him of happiness with his newfound family...
Set on the coast of Michigan, this book has it all, heartfelt heroes that you can't help but cheer for the whole way through, romance, mystery, secrets, pirates, an adorable little boy, and so much more!
I loved Emma and Patrick, they both made the best of the situation, and had their reasons to be hesitant, yet through it all they were dedicated to their marriage and learned from their mistakes. Patrick is perfect tortured hero, and served as a wonderful example of how one truly becomes a new creation in Christ.
Josiah was just so stinkin' cute! Even when he was being bad he captured my heart. I also really liked Ryan, Emma's brother, so imagine my excitement when I found out that he is going to be the subject of the next book in the series! Why can't it just be June already?
Overall, a compelling and heartfelt read, from the beginning to the very end. I loved everything about it! I can't wait to tell all my friends that this is the book that they need to be reading!
Thanks to Ms. Hedlund for the opportunity to read and review this fantastic book!
Emma Chambers and her brother Ryan are left to fend for themselves after their steamboat is sunk by pirates just off the shore of Presque Island.
Emma doesn't want to be a burden to her brother as he tries to provide for himself, so she accepts the proposal of the local lighthouse keeper, Patrick Garraty who recently lost his wife, and is struggling to care for his young son while balancing his duties in the lighthouse.
But Patrick has secrets from his past that threaten to rob him of happiness with his newfound family...
Set on the coast of Michigan, this book has it all, heartfelt heroes that you can't help but cheer for the whole way through, romance, mystery, secrets, pirates, an adorable little boy, and so much more!
I loved Emma and Patrick, they both made the best of the situation, and had their reasons to be hesitant, yet through it all they were dedicated to their marriage and learned from their mistakes. Patrick is perfect tortured hero, and served as a wonderful example of how one truly becomes a new creation in Christ.
Josiah was just so stinkin' cute! Even when he was being bad he captured my heart. I also really liked Ryan, Emma's brother, so imagine my excitement when I found out that he is going to be the subject of the next book in the series! Why can't it just be June already?
Overall, a compelling and heartfelt read, from the beginning to the very end. I loved everything about it! I can't wait to tell all my friends that this is the book that they need to be reading!
Thanks to Ms. Hedlund for the opportunity to read and review this fantastic book!
December 18, 2014
Imagine marrying someone after knowing them only a few hours! And yet this highly intriguing premise seems entirely plausible back in the era that "Love Expected" takes place in (1859). The author has woven together a highly satisfying story that peers into the fascinating history of lighthouse keepers on Lake Michigan, weaving in mystery with a tale of love. Hedlund has created compelling characters, ones with depth and emotion that will leave you so longing for good to come into their lives that you will feel like they are real! I enjoyed the twists and turns within the plot, as secrets are uncovered with unexpected consequences and truth comes to light in surprising ways. The story serves as a warning of what can happen when we attempt to hide the truth and aren't honest with those who love us. But the story also celebrates that God forgives us for our past, that true forgiveness doesn't leave us burdened down by the sins we've committed, but that we can walk in freedom from our sin, made new by what Jesus has done for us.
Readers who love to sink into a good historical novel will enjoy this one. And those who love a book that breathes with romance will also enjoy the sweet relationship that develops in the midst of the characters learning that God has made them for more than they can imagine. Isn't God good that way? I strongly recommend this story and award it 4 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Readers who love to sink into a good historical novel will enjoy this one. And those who love a book that breathes with romance will also enjoy the sweet relationship that develops in the midst of the characters learning that God has made them for more than they can imagine. Isn't God good that way? I strongly recommend this story and award it 4 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
October 23, 2015
Sometimes a novel is so compelling that you set out to read a few chapters before going to sleep, and then end up past midnight with a finished book! (umm . . . oops?)
I love historical novels that seem to say: "you live in Canada in 2015? ha! watch me transport you instantly back to Michigan in 1859!". That feeling of actually being a part of the story at the right time and the right place that the setting tells you you're in is nothing short of magical. I loved learning about the area around Presque Isle, and Burnham's Landing, and what was required to keep the shores of Lake Huron safe from pirates. (Yes, pirates in Michigan! Who knew?)
However, what almost always makes or breaks a novel for me are the characters. I absolutely fell in love with Emma: her quest to finally find that feeling of 'home' that she'd longed for since her mother died, her surety that she's doing EVERYTHING wrong, and the peace she finally finds when she realises the answers to her searching come from God. And, ahh . . . Patrick: his attempts to somehow atone for his sins, even though Christ already had, his surety that no one could love him, and his fierce protective love for those in his keeping. And then, there was sweet little Josiah!
I really, REALLY enjoyed this novel, and am looking forward to reading more from Jody Hedlund!
I love historical novels that seem to say: "you live in Canada in 2015? ha! watch me transport you instantly back to Michigan in 1859!". That feeling of actually being a part of the story at the right time and the right place that the setting tells you you're in is nothing short of magical. I loved learning about the area around Presque Isle, and Burnham's Landing, and what was required to keep the shores of Lake Huron safe from pirates. (Yes, pirates in Michigan! Who knew?)
However, what almost always makes or breaks a novel for me are the characters. I absolutely fell in love with Emma: her quest to finally find that feeling of 'home' that she'd longed for since her mother died, her surety that she's doing EVERYTHING wrong, and the peace she finally finds when she realises the answers to her searching come from God. And, ahh . . . Patrick: his attempts to somehow atone for his sins, even though Christ already had, his surety that no one could love him, and his fierce protective love for those in his keeping. And then, there was sweet little Josiah!
I really, REALLY enjoyed this novel, and am looking forward to reading more from Jody Hedlund!
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