I have to be honest and admit I’m not a fan of the captive bride theme. I see nothing romantic about women being abused, no matter by whom or for what reason. I know treating women as property is part of Western history (and worse, an aspect of the present in too many countries). But it’s a part we should be ashamed of, like we should be ashamed of sexism, racism, and all other forms of hate (also all too prevalent in the modern world, and perhaps more prevalent in the prosperous West where we have the luxury of having opinions).
But I requested a review copy of The Captive Brides Collection because it had stories from some of my favourite authors, as well as a story from Australian author Lucy Thompson. Okay, so she’s not a Kiwi, but an Aussie is the next best thing. Unless we’re discussing rugby.
My favourite stories were:
The Suspect Bride by Susan Page Davis
Oregon, 1890
Susan Page Davis is a long-time favorite author, and The Suspect Bride didn’t disappoint. Five stars.
His Golden Treasure by Darlene Franklin
San Francisco, 1873
An uncomfortable read, in the same way as Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers is an uncomfortable read. I enjoyed The Suspect Bride more, but His Golden Treasure did a better job of focusing in on the depravity of man (and woman) and the saving grace of Jesus. Five stars.
Moira’s Quest by Cynthia Hickey
New York, 1869
Moira’s Quest starts with Moira being sold by her uncle—not a great start (and not legal, given the US abolished slavery in 1863. But we soon find out Uncle Liam is not one to bother by minor details like obeying the law, so it fits). I enjoyed this despite the dark subject matter because of the humour. Sean, Moira and Leah might not be trying to be funny, but they are and it’s a great way of lightening the story. Four stars.
Waltzing Matilda by Lucy Thompson
Sydney, 1821
Total cliche title for a story set in Australia, but it works. This was an enjoyable story set in one of Australia’s early prison colonies which managed the difficult task of balancing the need for an entertaining romance against the depravity and abuse rife in the setting. Four stars.
~ Iola (review of The Captive Brides Collection, which includes Susan’s novella, The Suspect Bride.”