Review: "The Mayflower Bride" by Kimberley Woodhouse

I am always looking for exceptional historical fiction in time periods that I have read about previously so The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse caught my eye. I was not disappointed. This is the story of the Saints and the Separatist that came over on the Mayflower to start a colony in the New World. It centers on the fictional Chapman family and the trials and tribulations they suffered on the journey. It highlights how everyone lived on board the ship and the difficulties that had to be overcome. Although the Chapman family is fictional, the book is based on historical people and events.

What I enjoyed about this book was the tremendous amount of historical facts that are included for both the voyage and settling of Plymouth. You get a glimpse into life aboard the ship when the passengers are assailed with continuous storms and sickness. You feel the grief and helplessness as friends and family die. You are also witness to the joys as they finally reach land and the peace that they find in their religion and faith.

This book can be read and enjoyed by all ages who enjoy Christian historical fiction. The author does a marvelous job of weaving an engaging story thru the facts that will keep you turning pages. It has many wonderful examples of the characters’ faith and their beliefs in God, including many uplifting Bible verses.