"A Noble Groom" by Jody Hedlund

I have heard nothing but good things about Jody Hedlund's novels, and "A Noble Groom" has been receiving spectacular reviews everywhere. I was excited when I received the offer to review it, and was definitely captivated once I started reading. I didn't set the book down after I reached Chapter 11, reading the last half in one sitting! Very rarely do I allow myself, or have time for, such luxuries, but I enjoy it when I do. :-)

The story revolves around young widow Annalisa, whose harsh and unloving husband has left her one little girl, another baby on the way, and a farm which is close to being lost to the bank. Annalisa's father decides the solution is to write to their German homeland and have his brother send a hard-working man to marry Annalisa and try to save the farm.

While waiting for her new groom to arrive, a stranger shows up at the farm. It's not her groom, but another man her uncle has sent to help her until the man he's selected can come. Carl isn't exactly what he appears, though. A rich and pampered nobleman who was falsely accused of murder, Carl fled Germany and the authories who wanted to execute him. He has changed his name and conveniently leaves out certain things when getting to know his new acquaintances. Annalisa and the German immigrant community can tell he's not experienced at farmwork, but he's willing to try and give it his best, especially when he sees ways that he can make their hard and often-deprived lives a little better.

As the months pass, Annalisa wonders how she could marry another man when Carl has so captured her heart. She's never known such kindness or care. But Carl has plans to leave as soon as Annalisa's future is secured, even though he is drawn to her as well. Plus there's his background to contend with, should his real identity be discovered.

This book was heavy on the romantic side of historical romance, but there were plenty of good plot elements and minor characters, too. I especially enjoyed the community pastor and his wife, and how their wisdom and relationship wound through the story. Carl's scientific approach to everything also entertained me. I am definitely interested in reading more of Hedlund's books and seeing more of her writing style. Some of her previous books are now on my wishlist, so be watching this space for reviews of them in the future.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.