Historical Fiction Book Review: The Golden Bride

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Publisher's Description

"Can Olivia survive the crime and Gold Rush fever of 1849...and the countless marriage proposals?

The Daughters of the Mayflower series continues when Olivia Brighton finds herself widowed and working her brother’s restaurant in San Francisco during the height of the rush for gold. Even though she receives at least twenty marriage proposals a day, she will never marry a gold miner. Her brother’s friend Joseph Sawyer has gotten caught up in local politics and the plight of Chinese in forced labor. The more Joseph gets pulled into investigating crime in the city, the less Olivia sees of the compassionate man. And just when she thinks she could love again, a fire threatens to steal all hope."

Click here to purchase a copy of this book for yourself. 

My Review

The Golden Bride, by Kimberley Woodhouse, is the 8th book to be released in The Daughters of the Mayflower series. Set in San Francisco during the Gold Rush in 1849, this stand-alone novel offers a truly satisfying story of history, courage, love, faith and second-chances.

Well-written and well-researched, The Golden Bride abounds with rich characterization, a thoroughly compelling plot, and fascinating historical details. In a city overrun with danger, lawlessness, greed, and selfish-ambition, the main characters shine brightly as they inspire others with their selfless bravery and generosity. They are authentic and multifaceted, and their fears, hopes, desires, convictions, and choices make them heart-warming and relatable. Though they struggle with their own insecurities and doubts, they endeavor to press on in their desire to help others and make a difference in their community. As their outreach grows, their personal hope and faith are strengthened considerably. 
 
Ms. Woodhouse skillfully balances moments of a budding romance and life in a fledgling city with scenes of brief action and mild peril that move the plot along at an enjoyable pace. Themes of faith, purpose, service, courage, forgiveness, and redemption resonate as the characters grow and mature by facing various challenges and overcoming personal struggles. Shown in all its unflattering truth, the harsh realities of life in the early and wild San Francisco setting add a danger and an intrigue to the story while also drawing attention to a time and place in history that has faded into memory. 

From beginning to end, The Golden Bride is a truly memorable novel and a pleasure to read. I eagerly recommend it to all readers who enjoy historical fiction that is engaging, moving, and inspirational.

*I was given a copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
 

My Reflection

Within the pages of The Golden Bride, there is an emphasis on the importance of prayer, Bible study, and trusting in God’s faithfulness and provision. When they endeavor to solve problems through their own strength and determination, the characters struggle and peace eludes them. However, through humble submission to God’s compassionate sovereignty and will, the characters find peace in God’s timing and in his grace and wisdom. Their faith grows stronger and their trials become bearable when they turn to God in prayer and place their trust wholly in him. Many novels entertain. Some novels point to the life-changing power of scripture. The Golden Bride is a novel that does both very well.

About the Author: Kimberley Woodhouse


"Kimberley Woodhouse is the best-selling and award-winning author of more than a dozen books. She is a wife, mother, author, and musician with a quick wit and positive outlook despite difficult circumstances. A popular speaker, she's shared at more than 2,000 venues across the country. Kimberley and her family's story have garnered national media attention for many years including ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, The Montel Williams Show, Discovery Health channel's Mystery ER, The Hour of Power, The Harvest Show, and over 1,000 other TV appearances and radio interviews. She lives and writes in Colorado with her husband of twenty-five years and their two amazing kids. Visit her website: kimberleywoodhouse.com, and find Kim on twitter and facebook: twitter.com/kimwoodhouse, and author fan page Kimberley Woodhouse." --Biography from Kimberley Woodhouse's author page on Amazon.com.

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