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A Bride Most BegrudgingDeeanne Gist

Christian historical romance

A Bride Most Begrudging

by Deeanne Gist

350 pages · First published 2005

In 1643, Lady Constance Morrow is kidnapped from England and transported to colonial Virginia, where she is sold as a tobacco bride. Educated, outspoken, and gifted with numbers, Constance has no intention of surrendering her independence to a stranger. But when circumstances force her into marriage with Drew O'Connor, a hardworking tobacco farmer who never wanted a wife, neither expects their arrangement to become anything more than a practical necessity. As Constance struggles to adapt to the harsh realities of frontier life, her unconventional ideas and determination repeatedly clash with Drew's expectations. Yet amid hardship, misunderstandings, and growing affection, the reluctant couple begins to discover that love may flourish in the most unexpected circumstances. Perfect for readers craving a spirited historical romance filled with marriage of convenience, clashing personalities, colonial adventures, and faith-tested love.

Paired for this story

New World Steamer + Hearthside Spiced Mead

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At a glance

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Spice2 of 5
Suspense1 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Kidnapping and forced transportation to colonial America · A woman being sold into marriage against her will · Coercive marriage circumstances and restricted female autonomy · Historical exploitation and servitude · Harsh colonial living conditions and physical hardship · Marital conflict and gender-based expectations · Romantic attraction, kissing, and marital intimacy · References to death, illness, and danger in a colonial settlement

Alcohol-Free Pour

New World Steamer

Warm milk, honey, and cinnamon offer a little comfort in the New World as Constance discovers that surviving colonial life—and living with her reluctant husband—requires more ingenuity than she ever imagined.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Warm the milk gently, whisk in sweetener and spices until steaming and lightly frothy, then pour into a mug.
  2. Garnish: Light dusting of spice, optional.
  3. Glassware: Mug.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Hearthside Spiced Mead

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

Warm honey mead and fragrant spices evoke the comforts of an English hearth as Constance struggles to build an unexpected new life—and an even more unexpected love—in colonial Virginia.

How to mix it

  1. Makes one serving.
  2. Combine the mead, cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat until gently steaming—do not simmer or boil. Keep over very low heat for 5–10 minutes, tasting occasionally for your preferred spice strength. Strain into a heatproof mug and sweeten with honey if desired.
  3. Garnish: Orange peel and a cinnamon stick.
  4. Glassware: Heatproof mug.

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