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The Mayflower Bride
The Mayflower Bride
The Mayflower Bride
Audiobook7 hours

The Mayflower Bride

Written by Kimberley Woodhouse

Narrated by Sarah Zimmerman

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

4.5/5

()

About this audiobook

Can a religious separatist and an opportunistic spy make it in the New World?

Mary Elizabeth Chapman boards the Speedwell in 1620 as a Separatist seeking a better life in the New World.

William Lytton embarks on the Mayflower as a carpenter looking for opportunities to succeed-and he may have found one when a man from the Virginia Company offers William a hefty sum to keep a stealth eye on company interests in the new colony.

The season is far too late for good sailing and storms rage, but reaching land is no better as food is scarce and the people are weak.

Will Mary Elizabeth survive to face the spring planting and unknown natives?

Will William be branded a traitor and expelled?
LanguageEnglish
Release dateMay 29, 2018
ISBN9781977382290
Author

Kimberley Woodhouse

Kimberley Woodhouse (KimberleyWoodhouse.com) is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than forty fiction and nonfiction books. Kim and her incredible husband of thirty-plus years live in Colorado, where they play golf together, spend time with their kids and grandbaby, and research all the history around them.

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Reviews for The Mayflower Bride

Rating: 4.278688524590164 out of 5 stars
4.5/5

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  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Narrator cannot pronounce many standard English, like August, it does ruin the story which is good
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Parts of this story reminded me of the Colonial House series that ran on PBS several years ago. I love this period of history and it was really neat to have a first-hand perspective of what it may have been like on the Mayflower as it sailed to America in 1620.It took great faith and perseverance to make the journey to the New World. I'm not sure that I'd have been able to do something that BIG. The 100+ passengers were crammed on the small-ish boat, where it was most often dark and smelly, and most certainly there were sick passengers all over the place. Mary Elizabeth and William-the main characters-are fictional, but the author included many real people from the Mayflower and Plymouth Colony in this story (William Bradford, for example).I also learned about the Saints and the Strangers-I had never heard these terms before. "Saints" was the name given to the Protestant Separatists seeking religious freedom in the New World. The "Strangers" were the others aboard the Mayflower that were outside this particular community of faith. There was distrust between these groups to begin with, but they quickly learned that they would have go work together and be kind to one another if any of them were to find success in making a new community in the New World.This story is the first in the Daughters of the Mayflower series, where the stories follow one family tree, beginning with Mary Elizabeth from the Mayflower. Each installment is written by a different author. The Mayflower Bride was a simple, quick read and I liked it, so I'll be continuing with the series. (I already own most of them!)Audiobook Notes: I added the audio so I could listen while I did chores around my house. Sarah Zimmerman was a wonderful narrator and she has a lovely accent. She was believable in her role as Mary Elizabeth.Title: The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley WoodhouseSeries: Daughters of the MayflowerNarrator: Sarah ZimmermanLength: 7 hours, 15 minutes, UnabridgedPublisher: Tantor Audio
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This is a good book, but probably not one that I would read again. There's nothing wrong with the story, but I just felt that the dialogue wasn't grabbing me enough and at times, the pace felt too slow.

    But the author took the time to provide some wonderful historical information in the back of the book. I can't imagine being one of five women to survive the first winter in the New World. Think about how big the country has grown since then and the number of people who can trace their lineage back to the Mayflower. All because of these five women!

    On a more serious note, I remember reading the story of the Mayflower in the history books. It always felt like another "Once Upon A Time" story: A mean king persecuted the Separatists for their Christian beliefs. They left England for the New World just so they could worship freely. The Indians befriended them and helped them fish and plant corn. They lived happily ever after. The End. Admit it, we like that story, but the reality is different from the story. Kimberley Woodhouse does a dynamite job in showing that this historic voyage was a living nightmare. Ship leaking, storms tossing the ship to and fro, people getting seasick or dying of serious maladies. If someone died, your body was wrapped up and tossed overseas to be seafood for marine life because you can't keep diseased bodies on a ship because of the stench and there's no place to bury a body properly. And I can't imagine birthing a baby in these traumatic conditions either. Having said all this, I do thank Ms. Woodhouse for bringing these facts to life because I felt sorry for what these people endured. There were times in this book that I was tearing up because it's so heartbreaking.

    But back to the story! Mary Elizabeth is a good woman. I felt at times she underestimated her own strength and faith. David is a boy on the cusp of manhood. He still has his moments where he just wants to be a kid (and I don't blame him). Being cooped up on a ship would drive a person nearly crazy. Losing both parents in a short time span is tough.

    William Lytton is a good character. He adds to the strength of the story. His willingness to help others is admirable. His newfound faith is wonderful. His love for Mary is beautiful.

    All in all, it's a great story and one that you'll probably enjoy. I hope to find the second book of the series soon.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I love fictional stories that incorporate actual historical events. They take me on a journey to the past and not only entertain me, but educate me.The Mayflower Bride has a different feel from most books I read. I’m glad the author chose to use modern language, making it easier for me to read and understand. The glossary of terms and the list of characters in the front of the book proved helpful.This is a fast read, and flows well. I only wish I was pulled deeper into the characters emotions. I learned from this book, and look forward to the others in the Daughters of the Mayflower series.I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Putting faces to the story that we have known about forever, or at least we thought we did, this sure was not an easy ride, and from the beginning with three tries to leave England, we commence on the long journey,When I first considered reading this book, I remembered that Priscilla Mullens and John Alden are my children’s ancestors from my husband’s side of the family. So, I tried to make this personal as to what it felt like on that life changing move.Such struggles, and with so much death, you realize how very brave these people were, they struggled before they got on the ship because of their strong Christian beliefs, and then suffered immensely on the voyage.There is a sweet romance here, along with a bit of espionage, but these people live their faith, and I found myself walking in their shoes. I loved putting faces to these historical people and walking in their shoes through the eyes of author.Once I started the pages flew, and when finished I am now waiting for the next book in this series.I received this book through the Barbour Reviewer Program, and was not required to give a positive review.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    The Daughters of the Mayflower series begins aptly with “The Mayflower Bride” by Kimberley Woodhouse. A few months ago I read Rebecca Fraser’s “The Mayflower: The Families, the Voyage, and the Founding of America”, which provided a detailed, if rather dry, account. While the hero and heroine are fictional, “The Mayflower Bride” draws upon true events and sticks mostly to the historic timeline of occurrences. It offers a very good glimpse into the lives of the Separatists and the faith and beliefs that led them to venture to the New World, and their interactions with the Strangers (those outside their beliefs) further exemplifies their code of conduct. A poignant love story blossoms amidst the manifold hardships and tragedies that afflict the voyagers, with most of the narrative taking place aboard the Mayflower. Enough particulars about the decisions leading up to the journey and the arrival in the New World are given to flesh out the story, however, adding to the element of faith. This is a very well-written, clean book that explores America’s colonial beginnings from a Christian viewpoint.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I love historical fiction and this was wonderful. There was a little romance and a bit of intrigue. I did not know some of what happened to the people on the Mayflower. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters that made me laugh and cry. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Set in 1620, A group of Separatists are sailing to the New World. Their first ship SPEEDWELL has mechanical issues and has to turn back. They get on the MAYFLOWER and set sail. The sailing is hard on most of the people on board, there is continuous seasickness and other illnesses. Many people die.Mary Elizabeth Chapman is sailing with her brother and father. Her best friend Dorothy is on the ship as well. Mary Elizabeth and Dorothy nurse many of the patients, since they are young and able bodied. Illness strike their families as well.William Lytton is a carpenter who is hoping for a new life in the New World (this is modern day USA). He likes what the Separatists stand for and when he falls in love with one of the women, he asks to be allowed to convert over to the Separatist religion and way of life.There is a man who is bent on causing problems wherever he goes. He tries to get William into trouble with the other Separatists.The book holds your attention and you can imagine what it was like for these early people. Highly recommend.I received a free copy from Barbour Publishing, I was under no obligation to write a review. My review is my own opinion.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    For fans of historical fiction featuring the early years of America, The Mayflower Bride by Kimberly Woodhouse is the perfect choice! This well-researched novel provides a view into the hardships that accompanied the colonists of Plymouth Plantation as they attempted to establish new lives in the New World. Fictional characters and historical figures mix seamlessly in this story of courage, perseverance and trust in God. This one is a recommended read.The Mayflower Bride follows the fictional journeys of Mary Elizabeth Chapman, a young Separatist woman and William Lytton a London carpenter. These two endearing characters must learn to trust God as they seek to put the past aside and find a future and hope in America. Their romance adds a sweetness to the rich historical account. In addition to these characters, I loved how the author included some of the stories from the real passengers and crew of the Mayflower. Readers will recognize John Alden, Priscilla Mullins, and Miles Standish from their elementary school history lessons. But I found other lesser known characters fascinating. You’ll read about John Howland, an indentured servant who survives being washed overboard in the midst of the sea voyage and about Oceanus Hopkins, the first baby born while at sea. I found myself googling over and over to find out the rest of the story for the brave men and women that Woodhouse shares. And that’s what makes this novel unique — this book allows the reader to experience what our forefathers (and mothers ) faced as they sought religious freedom and a chance to create new lives. Woodhouse presents an inspiring message of trusting God in the midst of heartache and hardship — especially meaningful because this is a true story! If your book club loves historical novels with some added romance, then this one is a good choice.So if you are a fan of early American history, make sure to check out The Mayflower Bride. This book is just the first in the Daughters of The Mayflower series written by a variety of authors — I’m looking forward to more great reading!Recommended.Great for Book Clubs.Audience: older teens to adults.(Thank you to Barbour Publishing for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Many of us have heard about the people who boarded ships to travel to new land. They had hopes of a better life and dreams of owning their own land. The book was a big eye opener for me. I never realized how much the people went through as they traveled on treacherous waters at times. I can’t imagine seeing water seeping up to a point where you fear you may drown. The author has done an exceptional job of making this story so accurate with historical facts. I was mesmerized by the dangers everyone was willing to take a to find a new beginning. Mary Elizabeth was my favorite character. She was someone you could rely on and pitched in when needed. After having to depart from one ship that kept sinking to board the Mayflower was a daunting task. I was so emotional as I read of all the sickness these people endured. The accommodations were crowded and supplies were dwindling. I know Mary Elizabeth was happy to be traveling with her family, but will they be able to get to their destination as storms thrash the ship with waves that could cause devastation? I loved knowing that Mary Elizabeth had her best friend with her. They were abłe to gather strength from each other when times were almost hopeless as sickness and death surrounded them. William was a delight to read about. He is so kind to Mary Elizabeth and helps her as much as he can when so many people become ill. The story is filled with tragedy, hope, trust and a dream of a bright future. Grab a copy of this book and travel with a group that were willing to risk their life for a better future. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing abs was under no obligation to post a review.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Title: The Mayflower Bride (Daughters of the Mayflower #1)Author: Kimberley WoodhousePages: 256Year: 2018Publisher: Barbour BooksMy rating 5 out of 5 stars.When I start a story, it sometimes takes me a minute or two to find myself engaged in the book. It doesn’t matter what type of book I am reading. After I finished this book, I took time to contemplate and consider my review before I began writing. Kimberley Woodhouse is a favorite author of mine. I have read most of her stories, including those with Traci Peterson. One of the strongest points of Kim as an author is her attention to research and detail, which then carries over into her books.I understand by reading other reviews that some didn’t care for the book or thought the hype of the book didn’t live up to the reality. Each person has an opinion, but what I don’t get is how or why reviews are downgraded simply because of marketing techniques used or it didn’t live up to a person’s expectations. Well, even if to you think the book was not worth a 5-star rating, it most certainly wasn’t worth a 3-star one. Appreciate the hard work authors do in telling a story the next time you write a review. They know not every book will be a blockbuster, but understand the work they do is time consuming and they give it their best.For me, this book was a stark reminder of the price people paid for crossing an ocean to start a colony to worship freely. The lack of medical knowledge at that time or even privacy for months on a ship was really a humbling picture to me. I felt the heart of the main character, Mary Elizabeth, break every time she lost a loved one. In a time when there were so many uncertainties and daily life was dangerous, it was simply inspiring as the characters faced their trials. I loved seeing the holding onto God, prayer, and trusting in Him was a moment by moment choice at times.This book and those that follow in the series will be well worth reading just to be reminded of the price people paid for religious freedom. The history, fighting the elements, and clinging to their faith was so captivating to my heart! Each day people faced was fraught with danger. They never knew if they would see their dreams or hopes become a reality and that should cause us all to thank God that He brought them safely across the ocean. Their faith, fighting to live, desire to bring glory to God in everything, gathering together to worship and pray are truths I won’t forget anytime soon!So, thank you Kim for all your hard work in reminding the audience of the past so that we can be thankful for life today, and be actively living our faith for God’s glory! Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Having been to Plimouth Plantation and seen the replica of the Mayflower II, I was quite interested in reading The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse. Woodhouse has done a great job with the history and setting of this story. The reader feels like they are right there in the middle of the scenes. The mix of fictional characters with historical figures makes the story interesting and authentic. The sweet romance between Mary Elizabeth and William is engaging and delightful to watch unfold despite secrets and differences. The characters are vivid and lovable and their growth and maturity throughout the story is realistic. The Mayflower Bride is replete with information about the history of our nation and the struggles the passengers of the Mayflower endured. The author makes the story intriguing with some suspense as to the outcome of the passengers and to William in particular. And with a strong thread of faith in God throughout, the book is also inspirational as the reader can see how God's hand is at work in the lives of the individuals. I'm looking forward to reading more in this Daughters of the Mayflower series.I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions are my own.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Sadly, this is a book that did not live up to the great hype that preceded it. I am usually a fan of prologues and glossaries and such in the front of a book, but I thought this book was never going to start. There was just too much extraneous information, and I was tired before it began.Mary Elizabeth Chapman,17, travels across the ocean with her father and her younger brother, David. She is fortunate enough to have her good friend, Dorothy along on the adventure as well.Mary Elizabeth finds herself attracted to William Lytton, well-known for his carpentry skills. Unfortunately, Lytton is a Stranger. Thus we have a romance with obstacles. Many trials await the Mayflower travelers. These were portrayed accurately if not compellingly. Woodhouse goes to great lengths to be sure her account is factual. She has done extensive research and it shows.Surprisingly, there was more added material at the end. By this time, I felt like I had read a thinly disguised textbook. I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. I also bought a copy. All opinions are solely my own and no positive review was required.