Bible Reference(1,964)
Bible Studies(1,541)
Biblical Studies(1,671)
Biography(2,664)
Business & Careers(243)
Catholic(284)
Children(2,112)
Christian Living(11,282)
Church & Pastoral(2,333)
Church History(714)
Closeouts(3,499)
Commentaries(2,130)
Devotionals(5,278)
Family(6,019)
Fiction(24,254)
Action/Adventure(76)
African American(45)
Allegory(169)
Amish(2,691)
Biblical(388)
Classic Fiction(36)
Contemporary(3,740)
Drama(795)
Historical(1,670)
Poetry(10)
Prophecy & End Times(137)
Romance(6,738)
Short Stories(40)
Suspense & Intrigue(6,206)
Teens(685)
Westerns(367)
Gift Books(490)
Other Languages(14)
Personal Growth(8,224)
Philosophy(47)
Prophecy & End Times(923)
Theology(2,472)
Shop Now At Christianbook.com
Shop Romance or
Choose a Category
- Academic
- Accompaniment Tracks
- Advent
- Adventures in Odyssey ™
- Audiobooks
- Bible Accessories
- Bible Covers
- Bible Studies & Curriculum
- Bibles
- Blooming Bargains
- Books
- Catholic
- Children
- Christian Living
- Christmas
- Church & Pastoral
- Church Supplies
- Closeouts
- Clothing & Accessories
- Crafts & Recreation
- DVDs
- Download
- Easter
- Education
- Fall
- Family
- Father's Day
- Fiction
- Focus Magazines
- Focus Resource
- Focus Reviewed
- Focus on the Family
- Gift & Home
- Graduation
- Homeschool
- MP3 Music Downloads
- Mother's Day
- Music
- New Release
- Patriotic
- Pre-Order
- Radio Theatre
- Slightly Imperfect
- Software
- Spanish
- Spring
- Subscriptions
- Sunday School
- Teens
- Thanksgiving
- VBS
- Videos
- Winter
- eBooks
Most Popular Products
Top-Rated Products
Customer Reviews for Bethany House A Noble Groom
Bethany House A Noble Groom
Recently widowed Analisa Weiss has the feeling her husband was murdered but can't prove it. Alone with her young daughter in 1881 Michigan, she has six months left to finish raising the money needed to pay back the land contract her husband purchased, and the land is difficult to toil by herself. She needs a husband. With unmarried men scarce, her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Analisa a groom.
Average Customer Rating:
(50 Reviews) 50
Rating Snapshot (50 reviews)
5 stars
39
4 stars
10
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 star
0
49 out of 5098%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for A Noble Groom
Review 1 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
An Excellent Read!!!
Date:May 21, 2013
Liz R
Location:Hayden, Al
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Let me start by saying I can tell how time and research Jody Hedlund put into this story. I started the book knowing next to nothing about German immigrants in Michigan during this time period and the author did a wonderful job of informing without taking away from the beautiful story. This was my first read by this author and now I cannot wait to dive into her previous three novels.
A Noble Groom is the story of Annalisa Werner, a young widow with a lot on her plate and Carl von Reichert, an entitled nobleman with secrets to keep. When her husband is found murdered, Annalisa is left with a infant daughter to raise, crops to be planted and a short amount of time to pay off the large loan on her farmland. Carl is sent by her uncle to help keep the farm afloat while hiding from false murder charges.
To say Carl is unused to manual labor would be an understatement! He starts the novel with a great deal of pride in his status and feels as though farm work and these people are beneath him but, he grows so much during his time with Annalisa.
Annalisa has always been meek and obedient, everything she thinks a woman ought to be. She may tell her daughter plenty of fairytales but she’s given up on real love. Carl’s views on women and his treatment of her and her daughters are completely different from anything she’s ever known. She grows a great deal as a character as well and eventually finds the strength to stand up for herself and open herself up to love.
This is an absolute must read and just may find itself on my best reads of 2013 list!
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.*
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 2 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Surprised
Date:May 20, 2013
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This was my first read by author Jody Hedlund. I was very impressed with her writing. Her historical references were amazing. I loved the relationship that was built between all the characters.
I also loved how she didn't sugar coat things either. Sometimes in historical fiction the author forgets what the real struggles were of the time. Jody didn't. She had a well written story with characters that struggled with their own issues as well as growing from those same issues.
I look forward to going back and reading other books by Hedlund as well as reading her future ones.
I received this book from Bethany House Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 3 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
A picture of what Christ does for us
Date:May 19, 2013
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
This is the first book I've ever read by Jody Hedlund and I have to say I think I have found another author I want to see more from.
As I reflected on this book I realized what Carl does (become a peasant when he truly is a nobleman) and helps Annalisa is a perfect picture of what Jesus did for us. Carl defends Annalisa from her enemies, as Christ does for us.
Christ humbled himself so we can become His, His bride, his treasured possession.
Christ humbled himself so we can become His, His bride, his treasured possession.
Unlike Christ, Carl didn't want to humble himself and he didn't even want to fall in love but God used what was intended to harm Carl and Annalisa for both of their good and for God's ultimate glory (Genesis 5020).
I also think that Annalisa's attitude toward marriage is still believed today in too many marriages. We think this is the best it will ever get and marriage can't be some exciting, romantic adventure, but those are lies. Marriage is a symbol of our relationship with Christ, which should be exciting, and full of wonderful adventures.
If you are looking for a new historical romance I recommend this book.
A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 4 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
A Strong Heroine
Date:May 16, 2013
Not every group that came to the New World wanted an all-new life – many just wanted to escape tyranny and to possess their own land. A Noble Groom tells the story of a group of German immigrants who settled on former forest land in Michigan. Previously miners and new to farming, these hardworking people had to clear the land of stumps and learn how to become farmers. It was a difficult life and everyone knew that when Annalisa’s husband died, she’d need another husband or she would lose the farm they’d worked hard to develop. Her father wrote to his brother back in the Old Country to send a young man who could become Annalisa’s groom. When Carl Richards turns up, he’s not there to marry Annalisa; he’s a man in hiding and he doesn’t dare reveal his true identity or his life would be endangered. He agrees to help Annalisa on the farm until the real groom has earned the money for the trip.
A Noble Groom paints a clear picture of a group of people struggling to survive. Although they faithfully went to church and had a good example of Christian living before them in the Pastor and his wife, the love of Christ had not changed the lives of these people. They came to America seeking freedom but their hearts were still on bondage. I appreciated the courageous spirit of Annalisa, and the kindness of her noble handyman, who demonstrated Christ’s love in his actions and manner, even if he was living a lie. The story of how events played out was an interesting and engrossing story, with a unexpected ending.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
A Noble Groom paints a clear picture of a group of people struggling to survive. Although they faithfully went to church and had a good example of Christian living before them in the Pastor and his wife, the love of Christ had not changed the lives of these people. They came to America seeking freedom but their hearts were still on bondage. I appreciated the courageous spirit of Annalisa, and the kindness of her noble handyman, who demonstrated Christ’s love in his actions and manner, even if he was living a lie. The story of how events played out was an interesting and engrossing story, with a unexpected ending.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 5 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Harsh conditions create tender affection
Date:May 15, 2013
Svlemommy
Location:TX
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I enjoyed this book. Like any Christian romance novel, you can figure out what's going to happen pretty easily, but this one is still fun to read.
The story is centered around a family of German immigrants and a daughter, Annalisa, whose husband dies suddenly. She has to save her farm and to do this she needs a husband. Her dad "orders" her one from his brother in Germany. However, a man shows up with a note saying that he's there to "fill in" until the real groom can raise enough money to make the voyage.
The conditions in the family were harsh. Women didn't eat with the men. Women didn't do anything their husband or father didn't say was okay. People looked the other way with abuses. I have a hard time with believing a father wouldn't stand up for his daughter. Then again, I am not a German immigrant in the 1880s so I don't know what conditions were really like back then.
The love story is sweet and gut wrenching at the same time. The description hints that Carl is hiding something and I honestly kept expecting it to surface at any minute.
Annalisa fights not only nature but a ruthless businessman to save her farm and family. She is a strong woman and it was good to see her soften as the book went on.
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House for the purpose of this review. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 6 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Good first impression
Date:May 14, 2013
Sqwiggles
Location:California
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
This was my first book by Jody Hedlund. I really enjoyed the book. I liked the characters and was interested in their story. It was a great illustrations of immigrant's lives in America during that time period. I did think the book was a little slow paced. Although there was some drama, it wasn't exactly a book that I had to stay up all night reading. The book was a little cookie cutter historical Christian romance, but it had its own little twist that made it interesting. I also liked the way the author included God because it was done in a way where the book wasn't too preachy. There was still some passion between the characters, but it was done in a clean way. Because I was able to put the book down I gave it only 4 stars. It was still good, but it will not be one of my favorites. I would definitely purchase another book by the author. As my review title states, it was a good first impression of the author.
I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 7 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Strong on Story and History
Date:May 14, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Jody Hedlund’s most recent novel opens with a woman finding her husband murdered only to be told by her community that she’ll have to marry again—just as soon as they can import a groom from their home country. At the same time, a baron’s son sits in his father’s dungeon in Germany praying he won’t be beheaded for a crime he didn’t commit.
And from this intense beginning, things only get worse.
Annalisa Werner is the ever popular widow whose land is being threatened by a powerful landowner. Carl Richards is the man who longs to be her hero, but finds himself restrained by his past. And Gretchen, my personal favorite, is the precious little girl who only wants a new daddy and to hear another story by the Brothers Grimm.
I’m looking forward to the next story by Jody Hedlund.
Hedlund’s equal strengths are her storytelling ability and historical presentation. I was especially fascinated by this particular setting in time because it sheds some light on why so many German people came to America in the mid-1800’s: the time my Bavarian ancestors came. I’d never thought to ask why, but now, maybe I know. And I learned through the perils of a fictional group of German settlers. Hedlund’s book provided a story to enjoy with a history lesson of personal significance. I’m happy to recommend it to you.
Bethany House Publishers sent a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 8 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Wonderful Historical Fiction
Date:May 13, 2013
Angela J
Age:25-34
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
In a German immigrant settlement in 1880 Michigan, old traditions stand strong in their new country. Forced to leave Saxony by oppressive noblemen, the former miners, now farming and striving to pay off their loans, hate anyone who is not one of their own: a peasant.
Annalisa is close to paying off the mortgage on her land, until her husband gambles her savings away. To add to her hardship, her husband, a man she never loved but was ordered to marry, is found dead in their field. Now alone with a small child to care for, her father, a dominating patriarch who lives according to Old Country traditions, sends to Germany for a new husband from their cousins. She isn't expecting to love him, she doesn't believe that's possible in marriage. She only hopes for a hard worker she can respect.
Carl is a nobleman's son, accustomed to everything being handed to him by his wealthy father. He doesn't like how his father treats the peasants but believes that's just the way things are. When he's accused of a crime he didn't do, his only option is to flee Germany with the help of his manservant. He's told to go to Forestville, Michigan and pose as a schoolteacher. No one is to know his true identity as a nobleman.
When he arrives at the community, people are skeptical at first. He doesn't know how to put in a day's worth of hard labor, he uses words and terms foreign to everyone, his attitude and bearing are not those of a peasant. But they allow him to help Annalisa farm until her groom arrives.
What happens next is fairly predictable: they begin to appreciate and even love each other. However, Annalisa's aware that something is different about him and she's told herself love is impossible; it's just for fairy tales. Carl feels his deception over his identity is a hurdle not even love can cross. And he isn't supposed to be a farmer. He makes arrangements to teach in Chicago once Annalisa's groom arrives to help with the farm but with each passing day, he isn't sure if he'll be able to walk away.
Judy Hedlund is one of my new favorite authors. Her books are rich in historical detail, believable characters, and a broad spectrum of places and times. While describing Carl's misery of dealing with lice from the ship ride to America, I found myself scratching my own head. I could clearly picture the arduous task of clearing more land for planting, gathering sap to boil into syrup. Besides introducing a place and group of people I hadn't read of before, Judy weaves historical events and character development into her plot perfectly. Even though I was fairly certain how the story would end, getting there was enjoyable and she threw in a few surprises along the way.
I enjoyed "A Noble Groom." Hope you enjoy it too!
Annalisa is close to paying off the mortgage on her land, until her husband gambles her savings away. To add to her hardship, her husband, a man she never loved but was ordered to marry, is found dead in their field. Now alone with a small child to care for, her father, a dominating patriarch who lives according to Old Country traditions, sends to Germany for a new husband from their cousins. She isn't expecting to love him, she doesn't believe that's possible in marriage. She only hopes for a hard worker she can respect.
Carl is a nobleman's son, accustomed to everything being handed to him by his wealthy father. He doesn't like how his father treats the peasants but believes that's just the way things are. When he's accused of a crime he didn't do, his only option is to flee Germany with the help of his manservant. He's told to go to Forestville, Michigan and pose as a schoolteacher. No one is to know his true identity as a nobleman.
When he arrives at the community, people are skeptical at first. He doesn't know how to put in a day's worth of hard labor, he uses words and terms foreign to everyone, his attitude and bearing are not those of a peasant. But they allow him to help Annalisa farm until her groom arrives.
What happens next is fairly predictable: they begin to appreciate and even love each other. However, Annalisa's aware that something is different about him and she's told herself love is impossible; it's just for fairy tales. Carl feels his deception over his identity is a hurdle not even love can cross. And he isn't supposed to be a farmer. He makes arrangements to teach in Chicago once Annalisa's groom arrives to help with the farm but with each passing day, he isn't sure if he'll be able to walk away.
Judy Hedlund is one of my new favorite authors. Her books are rich in historical detail, believable characters, and a broad spectrum of places and times. While describing Carl's misery of dealing with lice from the ship ride to America, I found myself scratching my own head. I could clearly picture the arduous task of clearing more land for planting, gathering sap to boil into syrup. Besides introducing a place and group of people I hadn't read of before, Judy weaves historical events and character development into her plot perfectly. Even though I was fairly certain how the story would end, getting there was enjoyable and she threw in a few surprises along the way.
I enjoyed "A Noble Groom." Hope you enjoy it too!
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for review purposes. However, that didn't affect the above review in any way.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 9 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
This Is No Fairy Tale!
Date:May 9, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
"A Noble Groom" is set in 1880 on the eastern side of Michigan's lower peninsula, near the shores of Lake Huron. Fleeing Germany in search of a better life, numerous immigrants hoped to work in the mines in Michigan's upper peninsula, but upon discovering how cold winters were that far north they remained in lower peninsula Michigan where land was cheap. Clearing the land and making it ready for planting crops was hard labor, but just owning a piece of property was important to these immigrants who came from nothing in the Old Country. Annalisa Werner's husband was killed, leaving her with a 2-year-old daughter, and pregnant with her second child. Her marriage had been unhappy, and as she told her daughter fairy tales she frequently dreamed about love and happiness in a marriage, wondering if such a thing existed. When Carl Richards arrived in Michigan from Germany, Annalisa's father mistook him for a distant cousin that he had requested as a husband for Annalisa. When Carl informed him that he was a teacher, and not Annalisa's cousin, he was hired to work Annalisa's farm until her prospective husband arrived from Germany.
Jody Hedlund has researched her Michigan history well, and has created a very poignant story of extremely oppressive times for the immigrants who came from Germany with virtually nothing but their work ethics and the hope for a better life. Marriage was a matter of necessity in order to produce children to assist in working the farms. Women had no value aside from their childbearing capabilities, and love was a rarity. Strong personalities are portrayed with detail, leaving the reader affected by these characters. The landscape is described in pictorial detail, creating images that enhance the issues described in the lives of these peasants. It appears that God has forsaken these people through harsh and significantly difficult times, but their faith remains strong, and hope prevails. The attention to detail in this book is magnificent! Jody Hedlund is an extremely talented and masterful author who creates a deeply moving and emotionally consuming story of struggle, survival, faith and love. Impressive!
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was provided by Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 10 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Reviewing A NOBLE GROOM by Jody Hedlund
Date:May 6, 2013
BevK
Location:WI
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Reviewing A NOBLE GROOM by Jody Hedlund
Besides being a great story, I enjoyed this book because of a
theme contained in the story that you do not often find in "Christian" fiction. This story, while about German immigrants to Michigan in the late 1800's which a lot of us didn't know about, struggles with typhoid fever etc, it also reveals somethng that "Christians" often do not want to admit or talk about. What is that you say? The emotional and romance side to a courtship and marriage.
This story reveals in a considerate and non-graphical way, the issues of spousal abuse, whether verbal or physical, and describes a relationship kin to Song of Solomon and other Biblical themes. In the author's own words, to "expect love and joy from marriage rather than mere survival...that she could find so much pleasure in the kisses and touches of a man was altogether new, but not unpleasant. Was it possible to actually desire intimacy with a man?" These are things mostly not discussed in Christian circles, but like she states in the story, the 'heroine' was "glad her daughter could see the blazing affection between a man and a woman [parents]..."
She did an excellent job of showing how/when to draw the line and not fall into sin; she explains in many different ways that 'tradition' taught by different cultures is not precisely what the Bible intended. She shows the woman's "submission" in a correct light and how the husband should also 'love' his wife.
One of the beliefs was "women and eggs, the more you beat them, the better they get"... they were taught that true love and the hope in the 'happily ever-after' was only in fairy-tales... not real life. She makes the reader question "why is doing the right thing sometimes the hardest" ...
All in all, I enjoyed the book and highly recommend it. I think that young women should read it before they become involved with anyone. Sometimes Christianity puts a damper on the 'romance' and that is not what God intended for a married couple. The difference is in 'marriage' but the attraction should be there before. Enough said!
I received this book free from Bethany Publishers, to review with my own opinion. No limits.
IBELIEVE2
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 11 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
A Book to Love
Date:May 5, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Fans of Jody Hedlund will love A Noble Groom and new Hedlund readers will rush to buy the rest of her books. A Noble Groom takes place in Forestville, Michigan, in 1881. The characters are in the German immigrant farming community that began after the logging industry finished clearing the area, where life is all about hard work and acceptance. Hedlund draws on a knowledge of Michigan history, keeping the story true to the facts.
Annalisa Werner becomes a young widow in the beginning of the book. Faced with the need to pay off the farm loan or lose the farm, Annalisa cannot possibly raise crops, tend animals, cook, keep house and care for her little daughter alone. Her father makes the patriarchal decision to write to a relative in Germany to send a suitable man to marry Annalisa. Having experienced one loveless marriage of necessity, Annalisa has no desire for another, but accepts her fate.
Before the new groom comes, another German man arrives in the community. Carl Richards is a nobleman, scientist and teacher who has fled Germany after being wrongly convicted of a murder. Carl has no farming experience, but agrees to help Annalisa with her work until her new husband arrives. Annalisa is surprised to learn that Carl is nothing like her late husband and her feelings of gratitude grow into something more. Carl is kind to her daughter and his feelings change, too. Carl has a secret, however, and it is one that could change everything.
Hedlund allows readers a look inside her characters’ hearts, so they know more than Annalisa or Carl. All of the characters are authentic and well developed. The descriptions of the hardship of poor immigrant farm life are so sensitive and dramatic that readers will feel the emotions of the characters. As with all the best stories, readers will dread finishing this book and saying goodbye to these wonderful friends. Readers, be warned that this book is compelling and very hard to put down, so allow plenty of time to read it straight through. A Noble Groom is a book to love.
I was given a free copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of review. I highly recommend it for adult and teenage readers who enjoy historical fiction,
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 12 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
A taste of Germany
Date:May 5, 2013
Gringa93
Location:Minneapolis, MN
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
A Nobel Groom is a story about a German immigrant settlement in Michigan in 1881. A young widow, Annalisa Werner, has a daughter to care for another baby on the way and six months to raise the funds to pay off her land debt. These are overwhelming tasks for someone so young. Annalisa's father knows that she needs a husband, so he sends for a distant cousin from the old country to come and marry his daughter. When Carl shows up with a letter in hand, people think she is the long awaited cousin. Carl has to scramble to avoid being forced into marriage. The community finds out that he isn't the long awaited cousin, but someone from the "Old Country" that is willing to help out until the cousin arrives. Carl carries a secret that he is not a poor teacher, but a nobleman. He had to leave his homeland after escaping from prison. He was falsely accused of murder. After a life of ease, the life of an immigrant proves there are many things to learn and some secrets to keep. Will the crops get in on time, will the land go to the evil man, Ward, who threatens Annalisa on different occasions?
This book captured my attention from the beginning. I wanted to find out about Annalisa and her little girl. Could they survive alone in the frontier on their own? The book has some german sprinkled throughout the book that add to the flavor of the story. I only wish I knew German to understand the words. The struggle of farming in the 1880s came alive under Hedlund's pen. I found myself holding my breath--- hoping the next page would bring the long awaited rain for the crops. The murder mystery brought about a surprising resolution. I am so glad that Hedlund continued the story after the murder was solved. It was a complete story that comes full circle and ends with a satisfying resolution.
Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for this free e-book to read.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 13 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Date:May 5, 2013
xxxx
Location:Huntsville, Ontario
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The characters in this novel pull you into their experience quickly and you empathize with their situations. You find yourself pulling for them as "underdogs" and anticipate the final outcome. Style is easy to read. As nice story to curl up with.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 14 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Historical Christian Fiction
Date:May 5, 2013
tickmenot
Location:Kansas City
Gender:female
Young German-born Annalisa lives in a bleak world in 1880′s America. Men control every part of her life. In Annalisa’s world the men were served food first, the women got the leftovers–if there were any. If a man mistreated his wife, it was his right. Women counted for very little. Before marriage, her austere father controlled every part of her life including who she should marry. Her husband took over that role after marriage. In addition, he gambled and lost all their money, including the hard-earned money he stole from Annalisa. The death of Annalisa’s husband gave her no freedom. On the day of his death, her father made arrangements for a distant cousin to come from Germany to be her next spouse. Pregnant Annalisa and her young daughter Gretchen have no say in the matter.
Into Annalisa’s life comes Carl, and he is unlike any man Annalisa has ever seen. Carl acknowledges women, in particular Annalisa, as humans on the same level as men. Carl invites Annalisa to sit and eat with him, he has conversation with her, and he asks what she actually thinks. He tells everyone he is a teacher on the run, who was falsely accused of a crime he didn’t commit. He left Germany to hide out in America. Annalisa’s uncle sent him to her family. However, Carl has a secret past, one that Annalisa and her family must never find out. It would destroy them, and Carl would be thrown out.
It is decided that Carl will work Annalisa’s farm until her new husband arrives. Carl admits he knows nothing about farm work, but he actually doesn’t know anything about work of any kind. He applies himself though. There is added pressure because Annalisa only has until the end of the harvest to pay off her farm loan, or she will lose it. Plus the local lumber mill owner desires her land for himself–and has been trying to force her to sign her land over to him. In fact, everyone believes her husband’s death was the result of his refusal to sell his land.
For the first time in her life, Annalisa is around a man who treats her and daughter Gretchen with kindness. Annalisa finds herself loving Carl. Although Carl is very nice to her in return, Annalisa isn’t sure if it is love–and Carl isn’t either. Also, even though months have passed without his appearance, Annalisa is promised by her father to marry her German cousin.
Will love grow between Annalisa and Carl? Will Annalisa be in a marriage that will give her true happiness, or will she be destined to another loveless marriage her father arranges with her unknown cousin?
This book was hard to read because Annalisa, and all the women of her community, have such hard and hopeless lives, and it appears life is destined to continue that way for them. The author did a good job bringing all the characters to life, and researching this people group, and their history. The story had a fairly good ending. However, there was much sadness and death before reaching the end. The life of Annalisa’s sister is especially difficult to read about. This is not a happily ever after story. Carl does have faith in God, but Annalisa struggles to believe God could care for her, in her words, a lowly woman. The pastor and his wife are the only bright spots in this community, but don’t seem to have much influence to change things. This is a story of many struggles. If you enjoy historical tales that contain hardships and heartache, this is the story for you. I give this book four stars.
The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 15 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
A sweet romance with great character growth
Date:May 3, 2013
An Old Fashioned Girl
Location:Minnesota
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
"A Noble Groom," Jody Hedlund's latest novel, is an insightful look into German immigration to Michigan in the 1880's, as well as a sweet romance. Accurate in the mindset and tradition of the immigrants, the story also allows the characters to expand in character and conviction as they learn to adapt to a new land.
Hedlund focuses on God's love for the insignificant, for the unloved, for the abandoned. Matthew 6:26 says, "Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?" In learning to be cherished by Carl, her soft-hearted, child-loving field hand, Annalisa also learns that God cares for her too, that He wants to provide for her, and that He wants to save her - she is a valuable daughter of the Most High. She can accept no less than to love and be loved in return.
I felt that I knew the main characters very well by the end of the story; though they stretched and grew, their voices remained true to character. In my middle class righteousness, I was a bit annoyed with Carl's whining early on, but it was understandable for who he was, and besides, he got over himself fairly quickly. I could relate to Annalisa; as an obedient daughter, I would have a very difficult time going against my father's wishes. Thankfully, I have been blessed with a dad who allowed me to make my own decisions and respected them. The message of God's love for the insignificant was something of which, especially in this world where production and corporations are more important than people, I think everyone needs a reminder, including myself. It is so easy to feel lost and forgotten in all our busyness.
I received a free copy from Bethany House Publishing in exchange for an honest review; the opinions are my own, and I was not obligated to write a positive review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 16 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
I love, love, love this book!
Date:May 3, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Amid terrible sickness, hardships almost too much for us to imagine blossoms a tender love story that was borne from tragedy or was it really? As difficult as marriage is, it is horrifying to think of a time when women were treated as an afterthought as if they were no better than farm animals and treated as insignificant.
Annalisa Werner's family had suffered hardship all of her young life, first living under the oppresion of an often cruel duke then moving to a better but still hard life in America. Work was hard but they were free. They could actually own land. Annalissa dreamed of love but knew in her heart it did not exist outside of fairy tales.
Then Carl Richards appeared seemingly out of nowhere. He was handsome, charming and actually seemed to think a woman was worth more than cattle. Was he too good to be true? And even if he were, her new husband to be was due to arrive any day.
I received a review copy of this book from Bethany House
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 17 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Date:May 2, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
A spellbinding read from Hedlund!
It feels like just yesterday I was posting my review of Unending Devotion and now here we are with Hedlund's latest release, The Noble Groom! Right off the bat, I was sucked into Annalisa's dilemma and found myself quickly attached to her and her daughter, Gretchen.
I was also particularly intrigued about how Hedlund would go about spilling Carl's secrets. It certainly went better than I expected, which is a good thing. Secrets and whatnot can easily become clichéd, but in this case it worked well. Carl turned into a great hero after farming smoothed out his rough edges.
Annalisa, despite her age of nineteen, is such an amazing woman and mother. I wanted to applaud her hard work and effort to keep her family afloat. She made such sacrifices; all I wanted was to see her get something for her work, something to make it all worthwhile. All in all, she was a great heroine and perfect for the story.
Hedlund fashions an amazing cast, a realistic setting, and a plot that will make you hold on tight to the book. If you've enjoyed any of her previous novels, then you are sure to enjoy this one.
I received this book from the publisher via Litfuse in return for an honest review of my opinions. Thanks!
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 18 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Fantastic!
Date:May 2, 2013
Lindsay
Location:Sunbury, PA
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Set in Michigan in the late 1800s, this historical romance novel by Jody Hedlund focuses on German immigrants. Many of my own ancestors were German immigrants also, so it immediately struck a chord with me for that reason. In the opening pages, the main character, Annalisa is widowed (talk about grabbing the reader's attention!) Her marriage had been unhappy and her husband a failure to her in every way, leaving Annalisa and their young daughter on their own to try to save their farm. Annalisa's father decides to send a letter to a relative in their home country asking for a new groom to be sent for her. She is prepared to enter into another marriage of necessity as she believes love only exists in the fairy tales she often tells to entertain her daughter.
The man who arrives is not a distant relative, but instead a German scientist and nobleman. The charming "Carl Richards" conceals his true identity because he had been wrongly convicted and is fleeing a death sentence. He agrees to stay and help Annalisa until another groom arrives, but in the process he learns a lot about the hard life of the lower class, family, and love. Over time, Annalisa's heart begins to soften to this kind and gentle man, unlike any she has ever known, but her new groom may arrive any day.
This book was fantastic! The characters were dynamic and their interactions were enjoyable to read. The plot had twists, turns, surprises, and suspense. The romance aspect was very well done, while still keeping it clean. One word of caution, however: don't start to read this book unless you have the time to finish it right away! :)
(I received this book as a gift from the publisher, Bethany House, for the purpose of writing a review. The opinions are my own.)
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 19 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
Loved this story!
Date:April 29, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This was a really enthralling story that kept me reading to the end. It held my interest for a number of reasons, and honestly, Carl was a pretty spectacular hero. I totally loved him because his personality was a big draw for me. Yeah, he was a bit snobbish at first, but that was pretty minor. Overall he was a nice guy pretty much from the beginning. I totally adored him.
The heroine, Annalisa, was precious, too. The author made her very likable and you couldn't help feeling sorry for her many struggles. She wasn't ridiculously stubborn like some heroines are made out to be. She had a balanced attitude and I loved that she didn't believe in fairy tale love at all and thought marriage was mainly for practical reasons. But the more she got to know Carl and saw how he exemplified sacrificial love, the more she saw that true love was possible in marriage.
The way Carl was with the Annalisa's children was simply heart-warming and the tenderness there made me want to sigh several times. I loved how he introduced a whole new level of respect and self-respect to Annalisa by his example. He helped her realize she was worthy of love and should be cherished. How can you not love a guy like that? I could see the temptation Carl would have to do something involving his education that was less physically taxing, but I liked how the author showed that hard work builds character. Carl learned to respect the hard working people whose back-breaking labor was how the wealthy made their money. He learned that they were not lazy but were actually tough and quite strong.
I think my favorite part of this book was the developing love between the characters and how Annalisa came to realize that her opinion mattered, that she was worth listening to, and more than that, that she was worth loving. I thought it was touching how Carl helped her deliver her baby, how he saved the dog and a ton of other things he did that were genuine and sensitive. He was simply the most emotionally attractive hero I've read about in a long time because of his tender heart. Great story!
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 20 for A Noble Groom
Overall Rating:
A Heart Touching Novel
Date:April 28, 2013
Pamela Jo
Location:Bucks County, PA
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
"A Noble Groom" by Jody Hedlund
Published by Bethany House
Published by Bethany House
"A Noble Groom" tells the tale of German immigrants who settled in Michigan in the 1800's. The focus is on Annalisa Werner, a young woman married to an uncaring and cold man. She tells fairytales to her young daughter, yet lives with the reality that hers is not a fairytale life. Then her husband dies...or was he murdered?
Needing to save her farm, she agrees to allow her father to write to his brother in Germany, asking him to send a groom for Annalisa. Carl Richards arrives. A schoolteacher from Germany. That is the story he tells, but is he being deceptive?
Carl helps Annalisa on the farm until her "real" groom arrives. Annalisa is drawn to Carl, yet she has learned not to trust any man. Can she trust Carl? Will he betray her as her husband did? Carl proves to be a gentle soul who shows Annalisa nothing but kindness. However, the secret he harbors about his identity does not allow him to form a long term commitment to Annalisa.
Add to all of the plot twists an evil man intent on having Annalisa's farm, the terrible destruction of natural disasters (very well researched, by the way), a typhoid epidemic, and you will find a book you won't be able to put down. There is suspense, romance, heartbreak, and a theme of abiding faith within the pages of "A Noble Groom." I cheered, I cried, and I was sad when the story ended.
I was graciously provided with a review copy of this book from Bethany House. It arrived on Saturday morning and I finished reading it by Sunday afternoon! "A Noble Groom" is a heart touching story. Will this tale have a happy ending and find Annalisa finally marrying for love, or will "happily ever after" continue to elude Annalisa? Read this wonderful book and discover the answer. You will not regret it!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.