RATING: 5 Stars
Denise Hunter really knows how to write a romance story that will move your heart, as evident in her novel The Accidental Bride. Hunter wrote so that the story feels like reality and that the chemistry in Shay and Travis relationship feels tangible, no matter the tension.
Shay Brandenberger has lived through a crazy childhood, a failed marriage, single parenthood and deep humiliation, thanks to the man who takes her breath away, Travis McCoy, her childhood sweetheart. Travis McCoy is back in Moose Creek, after many years on the rodeo circuit. It is a decision he deeply regrets as the act broke Shay’s heart, causing her profound humiliation. Therefore the purpose of his return is to claim her back, although it is definitely going to test his patience. However it defiantly did not occur the way he (or Shay) expected. So when their Founders Day “marriage” re-enactment is accidentally made official, Travis seizes the day. Can Shay put aside her pride to let Travis help her, or will their accidental marriage to dissolve before it can begin?
What I love most about this story is that Hunter goes straight into the plot line and keeps the story rolling. Not only that, but the intimate description of the relationship between Shay and Travis is one that will keep you hooked, giving the story a deeper meaning.
However I did learn a valuable lesson that is found in Galatians 1:10- “Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God?” (NIV) Most females in our secular society are so caught up in trying to please society that they get so caught up in it and lose sight of reality. This is especially evident in Shay’s world, for she struggles with society’s perception of her, until her friend tells her that the only opinion of importance is God’s. I found this a really valuable lesson for I too sometimes care too much of what others think of me.
The Accidental Bride is definitely a romance novel not to be missed, due to the ability it has to stir your heart. The personalities of the characters are well crafted so Hunter translates the exact feelings she intended. The Accidental Bride is unquestionably a novel that illustrates Hunter’s ability to write deeply moving romances that grip the heart, which she is well known for.
