A perfect book to cozy up to on a stormy winter day: Love Unexpected by Jody Hedlund

about the book....

What Is the Secret That Could Shipwreck Both of Their Lives?

All Emma Chambers ever wanted was a home, but when her steamboat sinks just outside Presque Isle, she's left destitute and with no place to stay.

An unlikely solution arises when the lighthouse keeper arrives in town. He's just lost his wife and is having a difficult time caring for his child. So a traveling preacher gets the idea that the keeper and Emma might be the answer to each other's dilemma. After a hasty marriage, she finds herself heading to the lighthouse with this handsome but quiet stranger. Nothing in her aimless life, though, has prepared her for parenting a rambunctious toddler, as well as managing a household.

Emma soon suspects Patrick may be hiding something from her, and then she hears a disturbing rumor about the circumstances surrounding his late wife's death. It seems as if her wish for a home and family of her own could end up leading her once more into turbulent waters.

about the book...

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 (and pirates!) 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.

about the author....

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of seven novels, including Captured by Love, A Noble Groom, winner of the 2014 Carol Award for Historical Fiction, and The Preacher's Bride, winner of the 2011 Award of Excellence. She received a bachelor's degree from Taylor University and a master's from the University of Wisconsin, both in social work. She lives in Midland, Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She can be found online at www.jodyhedlund.com.