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    The Mayflower Bride: Daughters of the Mayflower (book 1)
    The Mayflower Bride: Daughters of the Mayflower (book 1)
    The Mayflower Bride: Daughters of the Mayflower (book 1)
    Ebook300 pages5 hours

    The Mayflower Bride: Daughters of the Mayflower (book 1)

    By Kimberley Woodhouse

    4/5

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    • Survival

    • Family

    • Friendship

    • Faith

    • Adventure

    • Fish Out of Water

    • Found Family

    • Power of Friendship

    • Star-Crossed Lovers

    • Friends to Lovers

    • Power of Faith

    • Love Triangle

    • Quest

    • Journey of Self-Discovery

    • Survival Against the Elements

    • Love

    • Courage

    • Faith & Religion

    • Trust

    • Perseverance

    About this ebook

    Can a religious separatist and an opportunistic spy make it in the New World?
    A brand new series for fans of all things related to history, romance, adventure, faith, and family trees.

    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?

    Join the adventure as the Daughters of the Mayflower series begins with The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse. 

    More to come in the Daughters of the Mayflower series:
    The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1620 Atlantic Ocean (February 2018)
    The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1725 New Orleans (April 2018)
    The Captured Bride by Michelle Griep – set 1760 during the French and Indian War (June 2018)
    The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1774 Philadelphia (August 2018)​
    The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1794 on the Wilderness Road (October 2018)
    The Liberty Bride by MaryLu Tyndall – set 1814 Baltimore (December 2018)
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherBarbour Publishing
    Release dateFeb 1, 2018
    ISBN9781683224211
    Author

    Kimberley Woodhouse

    Kimberley Woodhouse is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than 40 fiction and nonfiction books. Kim and her incredible husband of 30-plus years live in Colorado. You can connect with Kimberley on her website, KimberleyWoodhouse.com.

    Read more from Kimberley Woodhouse

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    Reviews for The Mayflower Bride

    4/5

    38 ratings14 reviews

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    • 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.
    • 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.
    • 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.”
    • 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.
    • 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.
    • 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 Woodhouse
      Series: Daughters of the Mayflower
      Narrator: Sarah Zimmerman
      Length: 7 hours, 15 minutes, Unabridged
      Publisher: Tantor Audio
    • 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.
    • 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.
    • 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.
    • 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.
    • 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.)
    • 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.
    • 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.
    • 5/5
      Title: The Mayflower Bride (Daughters of the Mayflower #1)
      Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
      Pages: 256
      Year: 2018
      Publisher: Barbour Books
      My 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.”

    Book preview

    The Mayflower Bride - Kimberley Woodhouse

    Plantation

    PROLOGUE

    Monday, 12 June 1620

    Leyden, Holland

    Asplinter of wood pierced Mary Elizabeth Chapman’s thumb as she crept behind her lifelong friend Dorothy Raynsford. Resisting the urge to cry out, she stuck the offending appendage in her mouth and tasted blood. Adults weren’t supposed to sneak around in the rafters. Why she ever agreed to follow her friend on this escapade, she’d never know.

    Well, she did know. She was as curious as Dorothy, just not as brave. The thought of the elders below hearing and catching them? It was enough to make Mary Elizabeth want to faint. But she pressed on behind her bold friend and crawled like a small child up in the attic of the meeting room. The smell of hay filled her nose as fear crept up her throat. This meeting would decide her people’s fate. And Mary Elizabeth wasn’t sure she was prepared to hear the answers.

    Dorothy stopped a few feet ahead of her and laid flat on her stomach, peeking over the edge of the rafters. Placing a finger over her lips, she waved to Mary Elizabeth.

    As Mary Elizabeth reached the lookout spot, voices from the room below became clearer.

    Pastor John Robinson spoke to a room full of their congregation’s elders. It’s clear that the time has come. With the patent from the Virginia Company for a colony, and with the investments of the Merchants and Adventurers, I believe a small contingent can go on ahead and begin the settlement. Within a few years, we should have our whole congregation there and our debts to the investors for the trip paid in full.

    Murmurs resounded throughout the room.

    Can these Strangers be trusted? A voice from the back put words to Mary Elizabeth’s own thoughts. She’d grown up with the stories of how their congregation had fled England and King James’ religious persecution. The first attempt had been thwarted by a ship’s captain who swindled all the passengers and turned them in to the King’s sheriffs. When they tried again, a number of families were separated for a year as one ship deserted them, leaving many behind.

    But that hadn’t deterred them. Eventually, they’d all made it to Holland.

    Labeled as Separatists because they wanted to separate themselves from the Church of England—which didn’t exactly please the King since he was the head of the church—everyone outside of their small group became known as Strangers. Their longing not to abide by the church produced persecution they endured and that was almost as bad as when Bloody Mary reigned.

    It was no wonder several folks voiced their concerns about trust this evening.

    Twelve years had passed, and here they were again. Discussing a way to leave. This time, not so much to flee persecution, but to secure a better future. The memories of dishonest people, though, were still fresh to all who remembered. No one wanted to go through those atrocities again. They’d lost everything.

    Pastor Robinson spoke in a soothing tone. While no man is without sin, I do believe we can trust them. The investment is sound, and the contracts are binding. We all know the worries that have arisen. It’s getting harder to make a living, and our children are being influenced too much by the culture around them. Sin and evil abound. If we stay, we risk losing the future generations to a dangerous course.

    Nods accompanied many affirmations.

    Mary Elizabeth tuned out the conversation. How would they even survive? Stories of tragedy abounded for those who had ventured across the ocean. And to start a whole new colony? There wouldn’t be stores or supplies or…anything.

    A shiver raced up her spine. Even though they were often looked down upon by the Dutch because they were outsiders and resolved to live out their faith in ways that went against the norm, she’d felt at home in Leyden. To be honest, it was the only home she remembered. But her people had worked menial jobs and longer hours to support their families, and times were getting tougher.

    A poke to her shoulder made her look at Dorothy.

    Her friend’s face lit up in an exuberant smile. She raised her eyebrows. Can you imagine the adventure? The words floated toward Mary Elizabeth in a soft whisper.

    What? Had she missed something important?

    Their pastor’s voice echoed through the room. It’s decided then. We have chosen the first group to go.

    As they waited for the room to clear, Dorothy filled her in on the families who would venture to the New World. Dorothy’s family—which made her even more animated than usual as she talked with her hands—and the Chapmans, Mary Elizabeth’s family, were part of the group.

    Mary Elizabeth went numb. She didn’t register anything more that Dorothy said. Even as they walked home, her heart couldn’t make any sense out of the jumble of words.

    Dorothy must have recognized something was wrong and followed Mary Elizabeth home. Mary Elizabeth. What is going on in that head of yours?

    Lifting the latch to the door of her home, Mary Elizabeth clamped her mouth shut.

    Don’t shut me out. Aren’t you excited about all this?

    She turned and stared at her friend’s eyes. Eyes that sparkled with excitement and joy. Why couldn’t she feel that way?

    Dorothy’s warm hand reached out and covered her own. Come. Let’s get some tea and discuss what you’re thinking. My parents aren’t expecting me home—I told them I was staying over with you—and as long as I am there to milk Polly in the morning and feed the chickens, I should be able to stay as long as you need me.

    All Mary Elizabeth could manage was a nod. They entered the door to the small rooms she called home. Familiar smells greeted her. Running a hand over a chair her father had carved, she let the feel of it seep into her soul. How could they leave all of this behind?

    Heavy footsteps sounded on the stairs, causing Mary Elizabeth to jump and put a hand to her chest. Father. Releasing a sigh, she looked down at the floor. He didn’t know where she had gone—did he?

    I need you to stay with David. His face was alight with anticipation. I have much to discuss with the elders.

    Is there anything I need to know?

    Not yet, my dear. But soon. Very soon. He kissed her cheek and strode out the door.

    Dorothy pulled out a chair and pointed to it. Sit. It’s time to destroy this fear and doubt that I see etched all over your face.

    Tears sprung to Mary Elizabeth’s eyes. They burned as they overflowed and ran down her cheeks.

    Dorothy stayed up with Mary Elizabeth in the kitchen, talking about the meeting until daylight crept in through the windows. While Dorothy’s voice held excitement and wonder, Mary Elizabeth felt only worry and fear. Her friend quoted scripture and hugged her. Told her it would all be all right. God was in control. This was a good thing.

    But what would become of them? Too many of their group were elderly and would have to stay behind, and the elders made it clear that only so many could make the journey. That meant only a small fraction of all the people she’d known the whole of her seventeen years would venture across the vast ocean to the unknown land of the New World.

    Mary Elizabeth? Dorothy placed her hand over Mary Elizabeth’s cold one. Mary Elizabeth, have you heard anything I’ve said?

    All she could manage was a nod. I just need some time.

    All right. I’d better get back home. The chores won’t get done by themselves. Her cheery voice did nothing to soothe Mary Elizabeth’s nerves.

    She doubted anything could.

    Mary Elizabeth, may I go play with Jonathan? Her little brother pleaded the same thing almost every day.

    And she always said the same thing in response: Have you finished your chores?

    He nodded and smiled.

    She tousled his hair and handed him his cap. Be home in an hour.

    I will.

    Brushing her hands on her apron, she watched him run down the street. He wouldn’t be a little boy much longer, but oh, how she adored him.

    Mary Elizabeth, Father called from the stairs, I need you to sit down with me for a moment.

    Of course. The flutters of her heart couldn’t be stopped, knowing all too well what he would say. She eased herself into a chair across the table from him.

    We’ve been chosen to go to the New World. Actually, I volunteered. The smile that lit his face was one she hadn’t seen since before her mother died. It will be good to have a fresh start and finally have land to call our own. His gaze went to the window as the smile disappeared. And there are too many sad memories here.

    He turned back to face her and shook his head. Forgive me. The smile returned. The journey is soon. It’s all very exciting, but we have much to prepare and I need your help.

    Odd how the body worked. She remembered forcing herself to nod, trying to look like she was interested in what he had to say, and tamping down all the fear and frustration inside. But she didn’t really hear a word after that. So many emotions erupted inside her that she didn’t know how to contain them. Before she knew it, Father stood, kissed her cheek, and walked out the door.

    A sob choked its way to the surface. Without thinking, she stood and raced out the door.

    Mary Elizabeth’s heart pounded as her feet thudded against the ground. Running for all she was worth, she didn’t care that it was unseemly for a young woman her age to run. How could Papa be so willing to volunteer?

    She reached the edge of the cemetery and slowed down. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she opened the gate, walked through, and quietly shut it behind her. There always seemed to be a hushed reverence in this small plot of graves surrounded by trees.

    Mary Elizabeth walked through a few rows and stopped in front of her mother’s grave. The fresh flowers she’d left yesterday were already wilting.

    Just like her heart.

    She fell to her knees in the grass and sobbed harder. Mother, I don’t know what to do! Father has agreed for us to go to the New World …. She couldn’t even finish her thoughts.

    This place—this hallowed ground—had been her sanctuary in the year since her mother had died. When she had no words to express her thoughts, she came here. And her heart spilled out.

    How could she leave behind her mother?

    Oh, she knew that her mother no longer resided in the body buried beneath the place where she knelt, but it still felt wrong.

    It meant she’d have no refuge. No place to come and hash out her thoughts and questions.

    Mother had been the only one to truly understand her. Dorothy was a dear friend, but she couldn’t fill the hole left by the woman who’d given Mary Elizabeth life. The one who’d kissed her head good night every evening and sung her awake every morning. No matter how scared Mary Elizabeth had been about trying something new, her mother had always been there to encourage her and tell her she could do it.

    Could she do this?

    No. It wasn’t possible.

    But the elders had decided. Father had readily agreed.

    The reality of the situation sank into her stomach like a rock.

    Leaning back on her heels, she cried like she had when her mother had died. Mother…I can’t do this. I can’t.

    CHAPTER 1

    Saturday, 22 July 1620

    Delfthaven, Holland

    Gentle waves rocked the Speedwell as the vessel left behind the only home Mary Elizabeth remembered. Salty air stung her nose, and the breeze tugged at wisps of her hair—threatening to loosen them from under her confining cornet.

    Standing as close to the stern of the ship as she could without bothering the crew on the poop deck, Mary Elizabeth inhaled deeply. If only the crisp air could clear her mind like it cleared her lungs. Breathing out a prayer for courage, she clung to the bulwark. Courage had never been her strength. The past few weeks had confirmed that indeed it was all happening. And here she stood. On a ship.

    Could she do this? Truly?

    She’d armed herself with her prized possessions: her mother’s red cape draped comfortingly around her shoulders; treasured receipts from generations prior sat safely tucked into the pockets tied around her waist; and the memory of the woman who loved her and modeled what it meant to be a godly wife and mother resided, always and forever, in her heart. Reaching her hand behind her apron, she slipped it through the slit in her skirt and found the string of pockets tied around her waist. The one with the receipts hung in the middle. She ran her fingers over the edges of the worn papers. Grandmother’s savory egg-and-spinach pie receipt, a boiled pudding receipt from her mother, and her favorite—Mother’s rye-and-barley bread—were among them.

    If only mother were still alive. Maybe this journey wouldn’t be so difficult.

    Even though their time in Holland had been full of difficult stretches, God had been good to Mary Elizabeth there. She’d had her family, her dear friend Dorothy, and plenty of work to keep her busy. Besides that, it was familiar. Safe.

    But no more. The land she knew had drifted out of her sight hours before. Never to be seen again.

    The Saints, as they preferred to call themselves, had left England twelve years before while under persecution from the King and the Church of England. When they left for Holland, they wished only to separate themselves from England’s church so they could study the scripture more and follow the state’s rules and taxations less. They believed only what the Bible told them, so they considered all the man-made rules and traditions of the Church of England to be wrong.

    She didn’t remember England. But Holland would remain forged in her mind for the rest of her days.

    Now it all seemed surreal. Listening in the rafters that night had been the beginning for her, but the group’s preparation had been going on for years.

    Correspondence to grant the Saints permission to start a colony in the New World had gone back and forth to England. And then John Carver and Robert Cushman were sent to London to negotiate an agreement.

    Finally, permission from the King had been granted. In fact, he seemed to bless the endeavor with his words, as long as they went peaceably.

    Memories of their departure from Leyden washed over her. The rest of the congregation that stayed behind and many of their Dutch neighbors had come to see them off. There had been shedding of tears aplenty. But when Pastor Robinson dropped to his knees, tears streaming down his face, Mary Elizabeth had lost control of her emotions, as well. As he prayed for the Lord’s blessing and commended the travelers on their journey, she wanted to gain strength from his words. But she’d only felt weaker and more inadequate.

    A spray of salt water hit her face and brought her back to the reality of where she stood. The planning was done. The packing was over. Goodbyes had been said. And now Holland had vanished from sight. She and the others on the ship would reach England soon, and after they met up with the Mayflower and her passengers—the other brave souls who would journey to the New World with the Separatists to establish a colony—they would be on their way.

    To what, she was unsure.

    Squinting, she gazed toward the horizon in the west. What would this New World hold? Papa had regaled her with stories of lush, fertile land. Land unclaimed by anyone else. Land supplying an abundance of food. Land that held no persecution for their faith.

    Her faith. It meant everything to her. And the thought of freedom to worship and learn and grow in God’s Word thrilled her beyond imagining. It was the one thing that helped her through the past weeks when she’d had to swallow the reality that yes, she was going to the New World. Dorothy helped her to focus on the positive, and Mary Elizabeth clung to the thought of her faith.

    Years ago, her father had spent almost a month of wages on a Bible so they could read it themselves. The first time she’d been allowed to hold the volume in her hands, she’d cried. She found it such a privilege to read the Bible, translated in its entirety to her own English language and printed in 1560, and understood why her people—the Saints—longed to separate themselves from England’s Church. Why didn’t everyone long to read the Word as she did? Why were they content to sit in church, pay homage to their country, and listen to passages read from the Book of Common Prayer and nothing else? Church was an obligation, a ceremony, a ritual to them. But followers of Christ were called to share the Gospel and be set apart. The difference in thinking didn’t make sense to Mary Elizabeth. Especially since so many had been persecuted for it.

    The New World held more than just release from persecution. Papa and the other men dreamed of working their own farms with land as far as the eye could see. In Holland, the hard labor they’d all put in for decades had given them nothing of their own.

    To think the New World could hold the answer to all their hopes and dreams.

    It sounded lovely.

    So why did her heart hesitate so? She’d shed enough tears to create a river the past few weeks, and she’d finally told the Lord that enough was enough. The only way she could make it through was with His help. Her new recitation became I can do this.

    Papa’s excitement rubbed off on her younger brother, David, but most of the time she’d had to force a smile. No matter. It wasn’t her place to go against Papa, and his mind was made up. They’d been chosen.

    Her father had kept himself busy with the plans to go. So much so, she’d hardly seen him in a fortnight. His absence made their departure that much more difficult to bear.

    It made her feel…alone.

    And now she stood on a ship. Going.

    She felt lonelier than ever.

    She shook her head. She could do this. Her mind just needed to stay off these thoughts of loneliness and instead keep occupied.

    Papa was engaged in excited conversations with the other men, which would probably be the daily activity for him the entirety of their voyage. So she must find something to keep her mind occupied and off these thoughts of loneliness.

    She could do this.

    But the recited phrase couldn’t keep the questions from filling her thoughts: Would the New World be as beautiful as Holland? Would she make friends? Would she find a God-fearing husband?

    Or would the savages kill them all in their sleep?

    Another tiny shiver raced up her spine. Such thoughts were not appropriate. Papa would have a fit if he knew she’d listened to the sailors’ stories. He’d scolded David for repeating the derogatory name savages. But what if that’s what they were? Were they sailing into their own demise?

    Mary Elizabeth!

    Dorothy’s voice drifted across the deck of the ship, and Mary Elizabeth waved and smiled at her friend. She must not allow her foolish doubts to dull Dorothy’s enthusiasm for every aspect of this new life.

    I had a feeling I would find you here. Fresh air is always your first choice. Dorothy smiled and leaned on the bulwark as the ship listed to the right. Your father is teaching David about Jamestown and the New World.

    David is thrilled, to be sure. Mary Elizabeth looked back to the water. She really must swallow this doubt and fear. Far better to grab hold of the thrill and joy she saw on her friend’s features.

    Dorothy laid a hand on Mary Elizabeth’s shoulder. I’ve been praying for you. I know this isn’t easy, leaving your dear mother behind and all.

    All Mary Elizabeth could manage was a nod as an image of the cemetery flitted through her mind.

    The gravestone with her mother’s name—Elizabeth Chapman—denoted the all-too-short span of the beloved woman’s life. It would lay bare now. No flowers. No one to visit.

    Even though Mother’s memory resided in Mary Elizabeth’s heart and mind, leaving behind the grave—the place she visited weekly to pour out her heart and soul—hurt more than the loss of any other physical object in Holland.

    Here. Her friend offered a brown-paper-wrapped package. I wanted to give it to you on your birthday, but I couldn’t wait.

    Mary Elizabeth smiled and took her time unwrapping the gift. The brown paper could be saved and used again, and they wouldn’t have access to such frivolities—or anything of the sort—for quite some time. As she turned it over in her hands, she found a deep brown leather book with a leather string tied around it. There weren’t any words on the cover or spine. What is it?

    It’s blank pages. For you to write down your thoughts. I thought it would help since you won’t be able to visit your mother’s grave anymore.

    Tears sprang to Mary Elizabeth’s eyes. Only Dorothy knew her heart and the lengthy visits to the cemetery and what she did there. She

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