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Customer Reviews for Bethany House Publishers Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Bethany House Publishers Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Average Customer Rating:
(43 Reviews) 43
Rating Snapshot (43 reviews)
5 stars
34
4 stars
7
3 stars
2
2 stars
0
1 star
0
42 out of 4398%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Review 1 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
A wonderfully entertaining and enjoyable story
Date:May 9, 2012
seabe
Location:Fallon, NV
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Priscilla White knows the Lord is calling her to be a missionary. Then the missionary board declares that she must get married before she can go. What’s she to do now? Nobody is going to want to marry her with her problem? Or at least she thinks.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I identified with the characters in that sometimes I don’t communicate my heart to the special people in my life. The story helped me see the importance of sharing my true feelings.
I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for writing a review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
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Review 2 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Loved the history
Date:April 30, 2012
omijean
Location:St. Petersburg, FL
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
This book shows how God's way is not always ours. It is an example of how He opens and closes doors. Was interested to discover at the end of the book that it was based on a true story of two women.
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Review 3 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
CONGRATULATIONS JODY!!!
Date:April 21, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Okay, I've got two words for you : Jody Hedlund!!
Praise be Jesus because I've been waiting for a while- make that a long while- to get my hands on this book.
I'm so happy to say that it was worth the wait and that I enjoyed every word! (Finished it in less than 12 hours).
My first read from Jody Hedlund, and thank God that it's not her last work.
Oh how I LOVE a good love story! I also appreciated the fact that this novel (inspired by a true story) demonstrated how God is strong in our weaknesses.
But let's get it straight here. Ladies, if you like a good story, packed with adventure, twists and turns, a hot hero (um, sorry??) An even hoter love story, (NOT the 'cute' kind);
It's about time you considered Jody's writing!
Praise be Jesus because I've been waiting for a while- make that a long while- to get my hands on this book.
I'm so happy to say that it was worth the wait and that I enjoyed every word! (Finished it in less than 12 hours).
My first read from Jody Hedlund, and thank God that it's not her last work.
Oh how I LOVE a good love story! I also appreciated the fact that this novel (inspired by a true story) demonstrated how God is strong in our weaknesses.
But let's get it straight here. Ladies, if you like a good story, packed with adventure, twists and turns, a hot hero (um, sorry??) An even hoter love story, (NOT the 'cute' kind);
It's about time you considered Jody's writing!
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+1point
2of 3voted this as helpful.
Review 4 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
A new author worth discovering!
Date:April 3, 2012
Jan Drexler
Location:Rapid City, SD
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Historical fiction means much more when it’s been inspired by a true story, and that’s just what Jody Hedlund gives her readers in "The Doctor’s Lady".
It is 1836, and Priscilla White knows she has been called to be a missionary teacher in India. She is just as sure that God has called her to remain single, but the Mission Board has decided young, single women are not fit for the dangerous mission field, and have turned down her application.
Dr. Eli Ernest is also bound for the mission field – as a doctor to the native tribes in the newly discovered northwest. He has spent a year among the tribes in Oregon, and longs to return, but the Mission Board supporting him has determined that he must take a wife along, or not return at all.
In order for both of them to fulfill God’s call, Priscilla and Eli decide to marry – in name only. But even as they start their journey west, have the seeds of romance already been planted?
Jody Hedlund was inspired by the story of Narcissa and Marcus Whitman, missionaries to the Nez Perce Indians in the early 1800’s. Mrs. Hedlund drew extensively from the Whitman’s diaries for her story, giving the incidents along the way the true flavor of authenticity.
"The Doctor’s Lady" is Mrs. Hedlund’s second book (her first was her award-winning "The Preacher’s Bride", 2010), and I hope we will be able to enjoy many more offerings. Her next book, "Unending Devotion", is due out September, 2012, and is available for pre-order now.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for my unbiased review.
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Review 5 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Great book and author
Date:March 7, 2012
admom
Location:Liberal, Missouri
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I really liked the book and this was the second book by this author that I have bought.
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Review 6 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Date:January 9, 2012
emmegail
Location:Dallas, TX
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I really liked that Jody based this novel on real people – Marcus and Narcissa Whitman, which she talks a little bit about at the end of the book. It is a fictionalized tale, but one that is heavily based on Narcissa’s personal journals. This story covers from the point when Eli comes to New York and visits Priscilla’s community church and their entire journey back across the continent to Oregon, to what would eventually become the Oregon Trail. Priscilla (Narcissa) was the first white female to ever cross the continental divide – a feat that many thought was impossible to be achieved by any woman. It seemed that at every turn their paid guides left them high and dry, but Eli was bound and determined to get Prescilla there in one piece. Their traveling companions, Henry and Mabel Spalding (Henry and Eliza Spalding), made for interesting company, especially since Priscilla had once turned down Henry for her hand in marriage.
It is obvious the amount of research Jody has done and I actually want to read Narcissa’s firsthand accounts of their journey. Overall, I really enjoyed the story of their overland journey and look forward to Jody Hedlund’s other book, The Preacher’s Bride, which is based on the story of Paul Bunyan, author of Pilgrim’s Progress and his wife Elizabeth.
Thanks to Bethany House for providing me with an copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 7 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Good read!
Date:November 24, 2011
Kayla
Location:Grand Junction, CO
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
This story was a great read and once I got into the story I couldn't put it down. I loved that it was based on a true story and I appreciated the history and accuracy of the journey West.
The beginning of the story was a little rough, at times the characters personalities felt forced. The plot felt forced and the tension between the main characters felt fake. After the first few chapters, the story began to take shape and things began flowing better. Getting past the beginning was hard, but once I got through it, the story came to life and I enjoyed it.
Overall, I loved "The Doctor's Lady." I loved not only the physical journey Priscilla and Eli take to the West, but I loved the romantic and spiritual journey they took. I liked how the characters were not "perfect" missionaries. They both had weaknesses that they had to overcome, and though they were still imperfect people, this story demonstrates how God can still use us despite our human weaknesses. This story was very encouraging and reminded me that God can use us, we just need to wholly surrender to Him. Loved this book!
The beginning of the story was a little rough, at times the characters personalities felt forced. The plot felt forced and the tension between the main characters felt fake. After the first few chapters, the story began to take shape and things began flowing better. Getting past the beginning was hard, but once I got through it, the story came to life and I enjoyed it.
Overall, I loved "The Doctor's Lady." I loved not only the physical journey Priscilla and Eli take to the West, but I loved the romantic and spiritual journey they took. I liked how the characters were not "perfect" missionaries. They both had weaknesses that they had to overcome, and though they were still imperfect people, this story demonstrates how God can still use us despite our human weaknesses. This story was very encouraging and reminded me that God can use us, we just need to wholly surrender to Him. Loved this book!
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Review 8 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
The Doctor's Lady
Date:November 18, 2011
In Angelica, New York, 1836, Priscilla White is anxiously awaiting for her assignment as a missionary in India. As she sits with her family in the sanctuary Dr. Eli Ernest is escorted by two young Indian
males. Dr. Eli is there to speak to the congregation on behalf of the Board of Missions to ask for support to set up a mission for the Nez Perce Indians in the Oregon Country. But in order to be funded the Board requires that any male or female missionary is to be married. Which Dr. Eli Ernest is not.
Priscilla is coerced by her family and friends that she would be the perfect choice for his help-mate. This would mean giving up her desire to go to India as a missionary. Besides Dr. Eli and Priscilla are not sure and so they agree to a marriage of convenience.
The treak across country is a long and dangerous trip in wagons. Dr. Eli doubts Priscilla has the fortitude for the trip. But Priscilla is determined to prove him wrong. They both feel lead by the Spirit to be missionaries.
The author paints an amazing picture of their travels west. Making a trip west in wagons extremely dangerous and many people lost there lives along the way. I had a hard time putting this book down.
I tried to think of something I did not like about the book but I could not think of anything that I would change.
males. Dr. Eli is there to speak to the congregation on behalf of the Board of Missions to ask for support to set up a mission for the Nez Perce Indians in the Oregon Country. But in order to be funded the Board requires that any male or female missionary is to be married. Which Dr. Eli Ernest is not.
Priscilla is coerced by her family and friends that she would be the perfect choice for his help-mate. This would mean giving up her desire to go to India as a missionary. Besides Dr. Eli and Priscilla are not sure and so they agree to a marriage of convenience.
The treak across country is a long and dangerous trip in wagons. Dr. Eli doubts Priscilla has the fortitude for the trip. But Priscilla is determined to prove him wrong. They both feel lead by the Spirit to be missionaries.
The author paints an amazing picture of their travels west. Making a trip west in wagons extremely dangerous and many people lost there lives along the way. I had a hard time putting this book down.
I tried to think of something I did not like about the book but I could not think of anything that I would change.
This review was posted on my blog 11/8/11
I recommend this book.
My rating for this book is 5 out of 5.
Disclosure:
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for review. I was in no way compensated for my opinion. This is my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for review. I was in no way compensated for my opinion. This is my honest opinion.
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Review 9 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Date:November 16, 2011
Wendy Peters
Location:Weston, FL
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This book captured my attention because of the plot. I bought it, read it, and thoroughly enjoyed it! It is one of those books that tugs at your heartstrings with every page, and yet is not sappy. Although the book is 374 pages, I wish it could have gone on and on. (I need a sequel to tell me what happens next in the story!) A great read!
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Review 10 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
This book was very well written
Date:November 15, 2011
Carrie
Location:IA
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
it was very interesting as you followed the map as they journey across the country. I was unable to put it down and read until 3AM.
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Review 11 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Based on a True Story
Date:November 11, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
I didn't realize until I finished this book that it is based on the true life story of two missionaries. I appreciated the author's passion and respect for these people. I loved the tension in the beginning when Priscilla will not be allowed to be a missionary unless she is married, and the seemingly arrogant missionary Eli finds himself in the same situation. Each need the other, much to their dismay. They marry so that they can serve on the mission field, and the sparks begin to fly! I love the banter back and forth, as well as the draw each of them has toward the other. Well written!! The book painted such a practical picture of what life on the mission field would have been like at that time and in that area. I got a glimpse into difficulties that I'd never considered. The story was humorous, touching, romantic, sad....all the things you'd want in a good book. However, after the long, hot and cold relationship between these two people, I was disappointed in the conclusion. After reading hundreds of pages, all of a sudden it resolves in about two paragraphs. Not enough for me. When I read the personal pages from the author after finishing the story, I found that this was based on real people. Perhaps the author felt that she needed to be extra sensitive regarding the resolution of their relationship, out of respect. I understand that, but it was still disappointing to me. Other than that, I thought the book was engrossing and thoroughly enjoyable.
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Review 12 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
A Mostly True Story
Date:October 29, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
This book wasn’t what I expected. I knew it was about a marriage of convenience between two people who wanted to establish a mission among native Americans in the early 1800’s, but I thought it would tell about them establishing the mission. Instead, it’s the story of their journey from New York to Oregon, first by ship, then by wagon, to establish the mission. It’s the story of how they learn to care for one another through all the hardship they endure along the way. It’s also the story of how they learn to overcome their own ideas and recognize their own weaknesses, so they can more fully rely on and submit to God.
I liked this book.
After the conclusion, Jody Hedlund explains that the book is based, pretty extensively, on the true story of Marcus and Narcissa Whitman—and their travelling companions. Narcissa and one of those companions, Eliza Spalding, were the first white women to cross the Continental Divide and travel to the West. They did this in 1836. Hedlund used Narcissa’s journals as the primary source for this book, "The Doctor’s Lady."
If you enjoy historical fiction (in this case, mostly truth) with subtle, but powerful, messages about trusting in God and building a strong marriage, I recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for this review.
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Review 13 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Superb Writing
Date:October 28, 2011
A Reader
Location:NC
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Love Jody Hedlund's writing! The Doctor's Lady is based on the real-life characters of Marcus and Narcissa Whitman although the author has changed the names. Whew! I was hooked by the first page. Not only is the writing style and pacing superb the chemistry between the main two characters is riveting and tingling. Give me a man like Eli please! I also have so much respect for those Oregon Trail pioneers. They had to give up and endure so much. Some to go to new lands, but others like the Whitmans to be missionaries. I would hope that if I were ever called to a foreign mission field that I would be able to have the dedication and grace that these two had.
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Review 14 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
The Doctor's Lady
Date:October 27, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The Blurb:
Priscilla White knows she'll never be a wife or mother and feels God's call to the mission field in India. Dr. Eli Ernest is back from Oregon Country only long enough to raise awareness of missions to the natives before heading out West once more. But then Priscilla and Eli both receive news from the mission board: No longer will they send unmarried men and women into the field.
Left scrambling for options, the two realize the other might be the answer to their needs. Priscilla and Eli agree to a partnership, a marriage in name only that will allow them to follow God's leading into the mission field. But as they journey west, this decision will be tested by the hardships of the trip and by the unexpected turnings of their hearts.
My Review:
The Doctor’s Lady is the first novel by Judy Hedlund that I have read, and it certainly will not be the last. Her writing draws the reader into the story and her descriptions allow the reader to picture the scenes with each turn of the page.
I immediately fell in love with Priscilla and Eli, and I felt that I already knew Eli, and in fact, I did! Eli’s character is based on Marcus Whitman, and I had met him in a story I read to my children about the first wagon train to travel the Oregon Trail. (Priscilla’s Character is based on Marcus wife, Narcissa.)
Reading this story I watched the character’s as their endurance was tested time and again. Leaving loved one’s behind, knowing that they most likely would never see them again. The fears they faced, and conquered, as well as the physical endurance: the tiredness, the aches and pains, illness, and loss. They endured and were strengthened. Their faith also was tested, but with each trial, it was also strengthened.
I highly recommend this book, but if you have a teen that is interested in reading The Doctor’s Lady, please read it yourself first, because there are a few violent scenes and themes centered around marriage issues that you may not want your teen to be exposed to yet.
About the Author:
Jody Hedlund is a debut historical romance novelist who was a double finalist in the 2009 ACFW Genesis Contest in Historical Romance. She received a bachelor's degree from Taylor University and a master's from the University of Wisconsin, both in Social Work. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. Visit her website at JodyHedlund.com.
**The Doctor’s Lady by Jody Hedlund was provided for me free by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 15 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Great story based on true events
Date:October 26, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I really loved the beginning half of the novel, but towards the end it really slowed down for me. I didn't feel like the romance was developing enough. And so much happened, it seemed to hop from event to even really quickly.
I enjoyed the start of the book very much, before they started their journey west. Priscilla was downright unlikeable, but I really liked the author's choice to portray her this way. She was so sheltered and close-minded at the beginning, we were really able to appreciate her growth so much more.
I really appreciated the fact that the story was based on the true story of a real life heroine. I was glad the author showed us a little of the real doctor's wife's story in the author's note at the end. Ironically, some of the stranger plots from the story were ones based on true events!
Overall, I think this will appeal to fans of American pioneer stories as well as fans of sweet romance.
book sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
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Review 16 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Infused with Historical Detail and Excitement
Date:October 26, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Jody Hedlund emerged last year with the riveting and emotional novel, The Preacher's Bride. Her newest book, The Doctor's Lady, is infused with the historical detail, excitement, and depth that made The Preacher's Bride such a memorable read. Hedlund has a remarkable talent of integrating true stories with elements of fiction to embellish the plot. The Author's Note at the end of the novel added extra substance to an already poignant story. Priscilla's journey as the first white woman to travel West is not just a fanciful musing of an author's imagination; it is based on actual events from the diary of Narcissa Whitman.
-
The first 90 pages of The Doctor's Lady are set on the east coast and focus on the preparations for the journey West. Once Priscilla, Eli, and their travel companions begin their trek, the plot picks up speed and reveals unexpected dangers, challenges, and blessings. It is very easy to romanticize the past and the life of the brave pioneers who ventured into uncharted territory. Hedlund reminds readers of the hardships that Westward travelers faced, without creating a plot that is too sad or heavy. The marriage-of-convenience concept is common in historical fiction novels, but the setting of The Doctor's Lady offer a fresh background. Watching the restrained love develop between Priscilla and Eli enhance the plot with just the right amount of romance.
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After several long and arduous months, Priscilla's and Eli's journey ends. During the novel they each grow individually and as a couple, risking their lives to follow their calling. From the first page to the very last page, The Doctor's Lady is a finely crafted novel. The last two pages in particular showed Priscilla's growth from a sheltered and idealistic woman to a stronger, more open-minded woman. The conclusion is fully satisfying, tying up the story contained within the pages of the novel, while connecting it with the events mentioned in the Author's Note.
-
I highly recommend both The Doctor's Lady and The Preacher's Bride, especially for fans of historical fiction. I will wait with anticipation for Jody Hedlund's next novel!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. 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.”
-
-
The first 90 pages of The Doctor's Lady are set on the east coast and focus on the preparations for the journey West. Once Priscilla, Eli, and their travel companions begin their trek, the plot picks up speed and reveals unexpected dangers, challenges, and blessings. It is very easy to romanticize the past and the life of the brave pioneers who ventured into uncharted territory. Hedlund reminds readers of the hardships that Westward travelers faced, without creating a plot that is too sad or heavy. The marriage-of-convenience concept is common in historical fiction novels, but the setting of The Doctor's Lady offer a fresh background. Watching the restrained love develop between Priscilla and Eli enhance the plot with just the right amount of romance.
-
After several long and arduous months, Priscilla's and Eli's journey ends. During the novel they each grow individually and as a couple, risking their lives to follow their calling. From the first page to the very last page, The Doctor's Lady is a finely crafted novel. The last two pages in particular showed Priscilla's growth from a sheltered and idealistic woman to a stronger, more open-minded woman. The conclusion is fully satisfying, tying up the story contained within the pages of the novel, while connecting it with the events mentioned in the Author's Note.
-
I highly recommend both The Doctor's Lady and The Preacher's Bride, especially for fans of historical fiction. I will wait with anticipation for Jody Hedlund's next novel!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. 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.”
-
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Review 17 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Okay, nothing Great
Date:October 20, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
The Doctor's Lady | a novel | by Jody Hedlund
Book Genre: Christian; Historical Fiction; Romance
Book Genre: Christian; Historical Fiction; Romance
Quick Synopsis
Seeking to travel to India, Priscilla White finds that the missionary board will send her only if she is married - something which she had, because of circumstances beyond her control, thought never to do.
Seeking to travel to India, Priscilla White finds that the missionary board will send her only if she is married - something which she had, because of circumstances beyond her control, thought never to do.
When rejected by the missionary board, she soon realizes that the only way she is going to become a missionary is by marrying. When she meets Dr. Eli Ernest, who is in the same predicament which she is in, they marry in name only for the sake of convenience, and she ends up traversing the cruel trail to Oregon rather than India.
The story is {loosely} based on the life of Narcissa Whitman, who was the first white women to travel the Oregon Trail.
The Good
I enjoyed the charactors' seeking to live a life of service, and reading about what the journey to Oregon was like back then was quite fascinating - I'm glad we live in a day where we have such easy lives!
It was also interesting to have the main "romance part" of the book take place after the marriage.
I enjoyed the charactors' seeking to live a life of service, and reading about what the journey to Oregon was like back then was quite fascinating - I'm glad we live in a day where we have such easy lives!
It was also interesting to have the main "romance part" of the book take place after the marriage.
The Bad
This was one of those I-know-what-is-going-to-happen-before-I-read-it type of books. The plot, although slightly different, had all the same characteristics as many other historical fiction (read: romance) books which I have read. If you are a big fan of this Genre, however, then you would likely enjoy this book.
This was one of those I-know-what-is-going-to-happen-before-I-read-it type of books. The plot, although slightly different, had all the same characteristics as many other historical fiction (read: romance) books which I have read. If you are a big fan of this Genre, however, then you would likely enjoy this book.
There were also some scenes which make me not recommend this book for young readers - namely, an attempted rape.
One pet peeve of mine is books which have no real plot synopsis on the cover or inside the front cover. Perhaps this is just because I read so many library books and like to know something about the book before I check it out, but it still annoys me somewhat. But then, it is really just a matter of preference.
Other Thoughts
My rating of the book went way up after reading the authors note - in fact, I think I would have enjoyed the book better had I read it myself, even though it would have "ruined" some of the plot. (Not that I had not guessed it by chapter two anyway...)
My rating of the book went way up after reading the authors note - in fact, I think I would have enjoyed the book better had I read it myself, even though it would have "ruined" some of the plot. (Not that I had not guessed it by chapter two anyway...)
My Rating & and Note
The book was fairly well written, and although I have seen better plots, I definitely enjoyed reading it!
7 out of 10 stars ★★★★★★★☆☆☆
The book was fairly well written, and although I have seen better plots, I definitely enjoyed reading it!
7 out of 10 stars ★★★★★★★☆☆☆
Note: I received this book for review purposes from Bethany House Publishers. I was not obligated to write a positive review and was not compensated in any other way.
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Review 18 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Fantastic Historical Fiction!
Date:October 18, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Called to be a missionary in the far-away land of India, Priscilla White eagerly awaited her first appointment. Dr. Eli Ernest had spent a year exploring the wilds of Oregon, meeting the native Nez Perce and establishing support for the first Christian mission in the area. Both were devastated ed when their backers refused to send them to the mission field unmarried. With few choices and their calls urgent on their hearts, they quickly marry and set off overland for Oregon. Yet faced with a rigorous six-month journey never before faced by a white woman, will their vision of a mission ... their marriage ... will they survive?
As a huge fan of the old Oregon Trail computer game and women's history in the American West altogether, I devoured this book. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen around the next bend in the trail!
Periodically I would wonder just how realistic it really was to marry someone after only a few brief discussions and travel across a continent to begin something new, knowing just how unlikely it would be to ever return, and yet I knew that women were forced to make these difficult decisions; still, I was shocked when I read the author's note at the end and found that this book was based upon the very true story of Marcus and Narcissa Whitman! Not only did Hedlund's characters seem real, but they were. Their trials, tribulations, and victories were true, and yet I never felt as if I was reading from a history text.
I loved Hedlund's tapestry of fiction, truth, and history. I can't wait to read more!
I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.
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Review 19 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
The Doctor's Lady
Date:October 18, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
After disliking Jody's first book, The Preacher's Bride, I was pleasantly surprised by Jody's second book, The Doctor's Lady, and I enjoyed reading it very much. Jody's story is based on a real-life missionary couple, Marcus and Narcissa Whitman, who traveled to Oregon Country to begin a mission to the Native Americans. Narcissa and her companion Eliza were the first white women to cross the Continental Divide, paving the way for all the women who would follow later along the Oregon Trail.
The setting of Eli and Priscilla's journey west to Oregon Country, the perils they faced along the way, the secrets they tried to keep from each other and others traveling along with them, and the characters of Priscilla and Eli all combined into a fabulous story. Priscilla thinks of herself as selfish and spoiled, but doesn't see her own strength and will power to finish what she started. Eli's gentleness and compassion appealed to me, though his pride was a bit overbearing. The story's pacing was great, and kept me up late at night, since I had to know what would happen to Priscilla and Eli next. I was happy that Jody separated fact from fiction in her Author's Note at the end of the story, and mentioned Narcissa's journal. I would like to read it next.
With thanks to Bethany House for my review copy.
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Review 20 for Doctor's Lady, The - eBook
Overall Rating:
Compelling Historical
Date:October 18, 2011
Margaret Metz
Location:Midwest
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
In short -- Jody Hedlund is another new author for me and this book took my breath away.
The basic things were very well done. She did her research and I felt like I was traveling with Priscilla and Eli as they went through the trials of reaching their new mission field. The author's notes at the end were fascinating as well. I also think the pacing was very good -- none of it seemed to lag or move too quickly. Although faith plays a part in their individual lives and the plot of the story, it doesn't feel like a sermon disguised as a novel either. That's an easy mistake to make. It's feels organic and natural instead of heavy-handed or something that was added in as an afterthought.
Still, the real fireworks for me were the depth of the characters she created. Both of them evolve and grow as individuals - not just in their relationship to each other. Don't be dismayed though, that delicious romantic tension was providing enough sparks to light a campfire or two ... ;o)
The writing was great, the story was compelling, the characters were fascinating ... This book is going on the list I use to pick my favorites of the year. I want to thank Bethany House for providing my copy in exchange for my honest review.
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