A Bride Most Begrudging

This really was a lovely story. Normally, I take notes about what I'll say in my reviews as I read, but I was so engrossed I completely forgot to do that. In fact, I sacrificed some sleep and a little of my own writing time just so I could finish the story in a weekend.

First, let me comment on the history. 16th century Colonial America is not a time-period I'm strong in, but it seemed well researched and authentic. The dialogue was period-specific enough to sound genuine without being so stiff — as 16th century speaking probably would be — that I couldn't relate to the characters. I also love it when authors give a little of the history at the end of their book. I definitely learned some things while being entertained.

Despite this show more being Christian romance and a clean read, it definitely sizzled. The romance between the characters was heart-felt and genuine, a pretty darn sexy even though the author "shut the door" on the actual activity. I actually didn't even realize the door had been shut until a couple chapters later when I found myself realizing I hadn't been forced into the sometimes uncomfortable role of voyeur.

The only real mark I have against this story is the editing. There were numerous places, especially toward the middle of the story where dialogue from two different characters was included in the same paragraph. Several times, I had to stop and sort out who was saying what. Normally, editing issues bother me a great deal, but because the story was so good, it wasn't that big of deal. show less

A Bride Most Begrudging. Just look at the title. How can that not intrigue you?!
This is my first Deeanne Gist book and I thoroughly enjoyed this read. When hero, Drew O'Conner sees someone in trouble, he must needs help. Even if it's a woman with red hair. Which he professes to hate. Both of them forced into a marriage by the rules of the colony, their emotions dance around each other in the usual, yet beguiling two-step. When you think all is faring well and you're ready for the happily ever after ending, Ms. Gist withholds it yet again. I must admit. There was a moment when I really. SERIOUSLY. wanted to slap Drew. Several times just so he wouldn't miss my point!

But, when you find yourself screaming at the main character, wiping show more tears off your cheeks, and laughing out loud, these are all the earmarks of a fantastic story. show less

This was an interesting romantic read set in the 1600s here in America. Constance is a "fiesty redhead" who finds herself being forced into a situation where she is on her way to America from England as a "tobacco bride". Drew O'Conner wants a maid to take care of his place and someone to care for his young sister. When he ends up marrying Constance straight off the ship, he gets far more than he bargained for. Constance goes from "hands off" to "please love me" and Drew also vacillates between wanting her and not wanting her. The author did a good job of making you feel how it was to be there in the colonies at this time in history. There was very good dialogue and alot of twists and turns in this story and it made for very interesting show more reading. I found that the more I read, the more I enjoyed the story. I look forward to reading more by this author. show less

'Eh. I had heard so much about this book and know several people to have read it and loved it and was expecting something extravagant, but it was just kinda okay. I read it in two days, so obviously it kept my interest. There were two or three chapters toward the end that were a fabulous read, but overall I felt that there could have been just so much more, but I guess I realize that this was the author's first book and could account for some, but I dunno. I did like it, don't get me wrong. It just wasn't the best of all the religious Christian Fiction that I have read.

I was a little skeptical about this book. While the premise sounded interesting the description of the protagonist as a "feisty red-head" made me hesitant. I was pleased though with the main character. If called "feisty" she'd take it as an insult. Constance is a woman educated (especially in mathematics). She also knows her worth as a woman, and will not be undermined by men of the colonies who constantly try to put her in her place.

Drew, the man who is forced into a marriage with this red-head does so reluctantly. Constance isn't too fond of Drew, primarily because he is quickly angered by her straight-forward attitude. She tells it like it is, and is not afraid of angering even the most powerful man.

The book is incredibly witty. From show more the beginning to the end it is filled with sharp comments and under-the-breath insults by certain characters. Moreover, it reflects human nature--what could possible be more entertaining than that? Many times the book brought a smile to my face. I even laughed when Drew "requested" Constance cook for the men and her response was an innocent, "I don't know how to cook."

While the book revolves mostly around humor, there are moments of sympathy for Constance as a man she begins to love treats her as if she were a servant. The book switches from the point of view of Drew and Constance, so I'm sure men who read this book might feel sympathetic toward Drew having to deal with a woman of such arrogant behavior.

Overall, it's compelling book that gives readers a glimpse of Constance's life--both the bad and a little of the good, and how misery can be turned into a miracle. show less

Lady Constance Morrow finds herself kidnapped and transported to the Virginia Colony to be sold as a tobacco bride. A pampered but devout young lady, she is not prepared for the hardships she will encounter in a marriage of convenience in a brand new land. What is more, she is very intelligent and had planned on editing a Lady’s Diary of Mathematics.
This was a very informative story, describing the conditions of early colonists. They had to make everything they used or import it from England.
I have read a few books by this author but had not read her debut. This was a very interesting story with lots of elements that caught my interest. I will continue to look for her books.
*I borrowed this ebook from Prime Reading. All opinions are show more my own.* show less

Ik heb genoten van dit boek,er zit van alles wel wat in,humor spanning liefde drama.
Ik had van Deeanne Gist nog niks gelezen maar ik ga zeker meer boeken zoeken van deze schrijfster,want dit bevalt me wel.