Teresa S. Mathews Reviews "THE NOBLE SERVANT" by Melanie Dickerson

The Noble Servant by Melanie Dickerson 

Thomas Nelson Publishers

 

Reviewed by Teresa S. Mathews 

5 Stars***** 

Once again the beautiful Queen of fairly tale retellings, Melanie Dickerson, has breathed new life into an old classic by the Brothers Grimm, The Goose Girl. 

Magdalen of Mallin, can’t believe she has been chosen by the handsome Duke of Wolfberg to become his bride, after all it has been two years since their brief meeting and she wasn't sure he even remembered her. She, the daughter of a poor baron, whose own mother has nothing good to say to her, is finally going to be able to save her country from the poverty and starvation that has threatened them since her father's passing. 

On the way to meet her charming husband-to-be, Magdalen is betrayed by an evil servant who makes Magdalen trade places with his daughter. Arriving at Wolfberg, Magdalen hopes the Duke will realize the deception and rescue her, but as soon as she arrives at Wolfberg Magdalen is forced to tend the geese. With her identity stolen and no hope in sight of a rescue, Magdalen’s sadness is lifted somewhat by the friendship of a handsome shepherd who tugs at her memory as someone she should know. When Magdalen glimpses the Duke of Wolfberg, something seems amiss, why does the shepherd look more like the Duke she was to marry than the man claiming to be the Duke?  

 This story was enchanting from the beginning to the end, with lots of intriguing characters, including quite a few that were nefarious, but what’s a good fairy tale without a few miscreants? Reading fairy tales as a kid was always a favorite for me. Dreaming of happy ever afters with my own special prince would always bring joy to my heart and now as an adult rereading these stories brought to life again from the imagination of Ms. Dickerson is even more thrilling. I cannot wait to see where her next adventure leads me. You can never be too old to yearn for a happy ever after! 

***Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers and NetGalley for providing a copy 

of this in exchange for my honest opinion.***

GIVEAWAY: Please leave a comment and your email address and you could be the blessed winner of a copy of this exciting tale that Melanie has graciously offered for our weekly giveaway! US RESIDENTS ONLY PLEASE!!


I was going through some funny old pictures and found my own version of Magdalen and her sweet shepherd; myself and my husband Carlton. I had to share them!  :-) 

Noela reviews THE SILENT SONGBIRD by Melanie Dickerson

The Silent Songbird

The Silent Songbird

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (November 8, 2016)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

An Enchanting Happily Ever After

There’s just something about Melanie Dickerson’s fairy-tale inspired tales that without fail sweeps me far, far away on a fanciful journey of the imagination and heart. Each and every book is a cherished must-read in which I long to visit and lose myself in! The Silent Songbird being no different, flew me back to 1834 to Hertfordshire, England, where an enchanting journey was just beginning..

The beautiful songstress Evangeline is ward to King Richard and spends much of life sequestered away within Berkhamsted Castle for her own protection. When the King demands she marry his advisor, the predatory Earl of Shively, the red-haired beauty escapes the castle’s confines in disguise and joins up with Westley le Wyse and his party of travelers setting out for their village.

Evangeline discovers a whole new world outside the castle—one of freedom and beauty, hardship, and toil. How will the once-sheltered maiden endure the taxing work of a maid in Westley’s village? There are many amusing and tense moments when one wonders if and when all will fall apart. 

Having easily fallen for the handsome, kind, and courageous Westley, Evangeline is burdened… for part of her disguise is a pretense to be mute. If her secrets are revealed, not only will she have betrayed Westley with her lies but she might be hauled back to the castle, for who would want to defy the King knowing he was searching for her? Evangeline’s new world however, is about to become even more fraught with dangers as revenge, murder, and a sinister plot comes to light. Will there be songs again in this brave but gentle maiden’s future?

Author Melanie Dickerson knows how to bring to life some of the most enchanting characters, like the sigh-worthy, compassionate hero with sky-blue eyes and the plucky, perceptive, and innocent heroine. Together, the sparks fly in this sweet as molasses, toe-curling, romantic medieval adventure! Faith threads such as trusting in God’s loving-kindness and forgiveness, are deftly interwoven within this beautiful and memorable happily-ever-after tale!

*Thank to the Publisher and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

Berkhamsted Castle Where The Lovely Evangeline Spent Most Of Her Years Growing Up Inside The Castle Walls

You may find this book for purchase at these and other places: AMAZON; CBD; B&N; BAM

GIVEAWAY: We have a hardcover copy of Melanie Dickerson's 'The Silent Songbird' for giveaway!! (US only) Leave a comment on this review to enter, and please include your email using (at) and (dot) to protect against spammers.

Teresa S. Mathews Reviews SHE WALKS IN POWER by MaryLu Tyndall.

She Walks in Power, (Protector of the Spear, Vol 1) by MaryLu Tyndall 

Published by Ransom Press, 2016

Reviewed by Teresa S. Mathews 

5 Stars*****

Once again MaryLu Tyndall has me in awe of the power of her mighty pen. This latest novel by Ms. Tyndall will take you back to a time of Knights and Castles and Fair Maidens. Some of those maidens are in distress but the heroine in this story is a warrior that has been appointed the Guardian of the Spear of Destiny. 

Alexia D'Clere, at the age of eight, didn’t understand what God had called her to do when her dying mother pressed a small iron object in her hand and told her she was to protect it with her life. Neither did she understand why someone would want to kill her shortly thereafter but thankfully a godly friar was prepared for such a time. He quickly whisked Alexia away from the evil but at the cost of leaving behind her beloved sister, Cristiana. Friar Josef taught Alexia the skills that she would require to protect the Spear; the most important being a love for the holy scriptures and a skill of archery that no one could surpass. Alexia also was given the gift of spiritual discernment, where she can see the good or evil surrounding her.

Ronar LePeine, is one of the King’s elite guard, a Knight like no other. Haunted by past sins, and seeking to pay penance, he has sworn his allegiance to God and King. While on a mission to Castle Luxley, Ronar encounters an arrow sent by Alexia, better known in the area as The Falcon of Emerald Forest. Alexia shocked that her arrow missed it’s mark, is caught off guard and caught by the handsome knight. Ronar, himself is shocked that the young archer was not a boy, but a very beautiful woman. Ronar is also caught off guard when the Falcon uses a well-placed kick that leaves him groaning in pain as he watches her escape. This will not be the last the two see of each other.

There is much evil lurking in Castle Luxley, from the family friend that is the steward of Luxley, to a mysterious sickness that leaves Alexia’s sister bedridden most of the time. Worst of all Ronar has brought a Bishop that’s on a quest to find the Spear, who will do anything to find it. Will Alexia be able to fight all the powers of darkness that she will face or does God have a different plan in mind?

I have been reading MaryLu Tyndall’s books for years, whether it be about pirates, escaped slaves, mermaids, a brand new colony in Brazil, or a time-traveler, and I have never been disappointed. One of her many writing talents is the ability to pull you right into the story and make you feel as though you are a part of it, but the one that I most admire is how she uses her stories to portray God’s love for his children. No matter the circumstances her characters may be in, MaryLu Tyndall shows us that they can turn to a loving Father and receive forgiveness, mercy, and help in their time of need. I cannot wait to read the next tale in this series, as I know it will be just as intriguing as all her others!

*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/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thought and opinions expressed are my own and 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.*

You may purchase this and other books by MaryLu at Amazon, Kobo and Barnes and Noble 

GIVEAWAY: I will be giving away an e-book of this treasure to one blessed commenter. Please leave your email address written (at) and (dot) to protect against spammers.

Bonnie Roof Reviews SHE WALKS IN POWER By MaryLu Tyndall

She Walks in Power (Protectors of the Spear)
By MaryLu Tyndall
Ransom Press, Sept. 2016

Reviewed By Bonnie Roof
~5 stars!~

England - the Middle Ages:

Eighteen-year-old Alexia D'Clere has work to do for God. Known as the Falcon of the Emerald Forest for her excellent archery skills, she is the Protector of the Spear - a spear tip which stabbed Christ and known for it's powers of wisdom and discernment. The equivalent of a female Robin Hood, she risks the penalty of hanging from a noose - her hunting game in the most lush of the king's forests and giving it to the underprivileged peasants of the village Luxley considered theft from the king.

Orphaned, and with rumors of a plot on her life, she has lived in hiding in the forest with father figure, friar Josef, for 10 years. Now believed to be deceased, Alexia poses as Mistress Bregley - herb gardener, maid, and minstrel to her seventeen-year-old sister Lady Christiana D'Clere, who resides in the family castle, Luxley Manor. Alexia's true purpose: uncovering the source behind the plot on her life, as well as determining the cause of her sister's health issues and night horrors, which have continually increased for two years. Friar Josef frequently reminds emotional, impatient Alexia to control her emotions, concentrate, hear the Spirit within, let patience prevail, and seek the light in others.

Feeling threatened while hunting, Alexia's archery wounds Sir Ronar Le Peine, a knight and member of the  Kings Guard, en route with the king's special confidant, Bishop Godfrey, and other members of the guard. Hiding life secrets of his own, Ronar is on a mission from the king to find and recover the Spear of Destiny, for use in fighting the king's enemies and rumored to be at Luxley Manor. Now striving to make his life count, he feels his lack of faith and pride have led to his downfall through God's punishment for his past sins, including straying from the teachings of the church and society.

Attracted to each other - Ronar seeks to discover the mystery of Alexia, she feeling Ronar belongs to God but doesn't know his own heart. They follow separate teachings - he the teachings of the church and the laws of man, she the teachings of God. Possessing the loving spirit of God, friar Josef has taught Alexia to follow God's leading and blind herself to the temporary world, while opening her eyes to the real world of the Spirit.

Although not a huge fan of medieval novels, I read 'She Walks in Power' due to the unusual storyline and my knowledge of the writing gift MaryLu Tyndall possesses to draw the reader in - no matter the setting, genre, or storyline. Her books hold something for every reader - vivid realistic characters, accurate historical content, beautifully detailed descriptions, romance, mystery, humor, adventure, forgiveness and redemption, hope, and a strong thread of faith. Keeping me totally enthralled and engrossed, the beautiful storyline of 'She Walks in Power' left me with a sigh of contentment and a re-confirmation of God's love and protection. 

*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/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thought and opinions expressed are my own and 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.*

This book may be purchased through Amazon, B&N, and Kobo.

GIVEAWAY: MaryLu Tyndall is generously giving away a paperback copy to one blessed commenter! (US only) E-book copy for international entrants. Please leave your email address written (at) and (dot) to protect against spammers.

Noela reviews SHE WALKS IN POWER by MaryLu Tyndall

She Walks in Power

She Walks in Power (Protector of the Spear)

by MaryLu Tyndall

Ransom Press (September 2, 2016)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

Ransom Press (September 2, 2016)

Huzzah! Another winner from MaryLu Tyndall!

Venture if you dare, back into medieval England to encounter valiant and roguishly handsome knights atop their Destriers, with weapons at the ready as they go about the King’s business. Beware however, of the deep, dark shadows hovering among the forest trees and castle walls where even the most accomplished of knights will need to learn a new way of fighting.

Hidden in the Emerald forest since she was twelve for her own safety, Alexia D’Clere has been under the tutelage and guidance of a godly Friar— studying the Holy Scriptures, honing her ability to see and move in the spiritual realm, and mastering the bow and arrow. For upon Alexia, was the crucial task of protecting the Spear of Destiny—a powerful, holy relic, that was entrusted to Alexia for safekeeping. Her striking archery skills and agile ability to fly through the King’s forest to hunt and provide food for the hungry villagers, has her branded a thief and named the Falcon of the Emerald Forest. When an important Bishop arrives at Luxley Castle on a mission to find the Spear, the evil permeating the Castle darkens. Her life and others are in grave danger, and Alexia must learn to rise above her fear to allow the Spirit of God to work.

Three of the King’s elite knights, including the perfectly heroic Sir Ronar LePeine, first happened upon the mysterious and beautiful flame-haired warrior and her particularly pointy arrows in the forest, while accompanying the Bishop to Luxley Castle. Ronar is then surprised to see the enchanting outlaw disguised as a servant girl, at the Castle later. Why would she risk her freedom to be discovered, and as he soon finds out—to look after the sick Lady of Luxley Castle? Ronar is torn between exposing Alexia and gaining penance for the guilt of his many sins, or finding out more about this intriguing and captivating woman. His fascination with Alexia is set to overturn his world and he may just find himself in a spiritual battle of epic forces!

Wow, what a journey! Transcending not only back through the ages but also unveiling a spiritual realm we too often forget about. The vivid descriptions positioned me amidst the stone walls of the castle and within the mossy, verdant forest; the inspirational message reminds me to seek God’s wise counsel instead of allowing emotions to guide me; and the excitement had me holding my breath and then almost had me shouting aloud “Huzzah!” A highly recommended not-to-be missed experience!

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the book mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and 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.* 

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You can find this amazing book for purchase here: Amazon, B&N 

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GIVEAWAY: MaryLu Tyndall is very kindly giving away a PAPERBACK of her new release (USA only) for one blessed commenter below!! An E-BOOK is available for international entrants! Be sure to leave your email address written (at) and (dot) to protect against spammers.

Noela reviews THE BEAUTIFUL PRETENDER by Melanie Dickerson

The Beautiful Pretender

The Beautiful Pretender

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (May 17, 2016)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

A Medieval Fairy-tale Retelling - The Princess and the Pea meets Beauty and the Beast

Imposing stone castles, wolf-infested forests, and immensely gripping characters—together with treachery, sacrifice, and love, ensures this medieval tale emerging from 1363 in the Holy Roman Empire—is one that seizes the reader instantly from the breathtaking beginning!

Avelina, the beautiful maid-servant to Lady Dorothea of Plimmwald Castle, is forced to go in Dorothea’s stead to the Margrave of Thornbeck’s two-week party—from whence the Margrave will choose a bride from the invited noblewomen. Dorothea’s father, the Earl of Plimmwald, insists Avelina impersonate his daughter to attend the gathering after Dorothea ran away with one of his knights. The Earl fears an attack on his castle from a threatening neighbor and must find favor and an ally with the powerful Margrave. Upon fear of banishment for herself and her family, along with the burden that many lives may be lost upon Plimmwald being defeated, Avelina goes along with the masquerade with no small lack of trepidation.

Avelina is a simple and pure-of-heart maiden, but possesses spunk and is opinionated when it comes to injustice and the downtrodden. I couldn’t help but champion for her. Though she’s meant to merely stay in the background and above all avoid the Margrave choosing her as his wife; the scheme falters as the Margrave becomes captivated with her. Avelina attempts to direct his attentions elsewhere but this becomes increasingly heart-rending when her feelings deepen for this austere but kind-hearted man. She knows a union between a maid and Lord would never be permitted, but even so there is too much at stake for Avelina to even contemplate the possibility. Before the fortnight is spent, a much direr situation than her deception begins to emerge. Can this beautiful pretender help truth and justice to triumph or will all be lost?

Truly, I devoured this medieval feast of treachery and love so gluttonously I’m sure I must have burped at the conclusion! Masterful storyteller Melanie Dickerson, once again delivers upon a feasting platter, an intriguing, original tale with phenomenal characters, exhilarating suspense, and a sigh-worthy romance. Enriching ‘The Beautiful Pretender’ is a meaningful reminder of God’s enduring love and faithfulness. Highly recommended! 

*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Thomas Nelson for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given. 

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This book may be purchased from these and other places: Amazon; CBD; B&N; BAM

GIVEAWAY: Melanie Dickerson is generously offering a giveaway of a signed paperback or e-book to someone who leaves a comment below! (US entrants only) 
To be eligible please leave your email address for contact purposes should you win. Using (at) and (dot) will protect you against spammers.

Giveaway Melanie Dickerson's The Golden Braid Audiobook - Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

The Golden Braid

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (November, 2015)

This audiobook will be on my list of Audiobooks of the Year for 2015.

Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

5 Stars *****

A Beautifully Woven Story!!!

The Golden Braid on audiobook at first put me off because the narrator sounded depressed. I really didn't care for her voice. And if you've ever met Melanie Dickerson you know she has the sweetest voice in the world! So that narrator just seemed so wrong! BUT, I really wanted to listen to the book because Melanie is a talented author and a friend plus Noela had done such a stellar review here on OWG blog that I pushed past the initial reaction to the narrator. I turned the speed up on her and soon I was ENGROSSED in the story!  It was a GREAT book and it is so hard to find a wonderful audiobook to listen to for Christian readers!

This is a Rapunzel story with many twists. I loved how Melanie fleshed out the wicked "mother" in the story. She does a great job of making the evil woman's behaviors understandable. And I love how instead of the knight, Sir Gerek, being completely heroic, he was a bit of a jerk at first. Again, the author does her job of helping us understand his behavior. I was impressed by the weaving together of the story threads.


Giveaway: Hardcover copy of The Golden Braid. Question: Have you read any of Melanie's books and which one is your favorite? (I think this one may be my favorite!) 

Noela reviews The Golden Braid by Melanie Dickerson

The Golden Braid

The Golden Braid

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (November 17, 2015)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

‘The Golden Braid’ delivers a sublimely executed retelling of the classic tale Rapunzel ~ flourishing with chivalrous and daring deeds, burgeoning faith, and a beautifully enchanting though conflicted romance. Taking place during the 15^th century in a world so vastly contrasting to ours; we visit imposing castles and encounter heroic knights engaging in clanging swordfights. In reality, our worlds are not so dissimilar in the fact that evil and jealousies still reside in the heart of man. But the beauty of the author’s gifted and mesmerizing story-telling, is that we may escape with our imagination to an exquisitely inspiring and unforgettable, happy-ever-after!

Naïve and innocent, the fair maiden Rapunzel with golden, flowing hair, is once more torn from a village as her oppressive mother moves them on, after a young farmer asks for Rapunzel’s hand in marriage. Again, her mother cites the evils and deception of men. Though uninterested in this man, Rapunzel is disheartened to be uprooted repeatedly, never having a chance to belong, to make friends, or especially to learn to read. She hopes that with this next move to the larger city of Hagenheim, she may yet fulfill her yearning to read at least. When along the road, they are set upon by some brigands; her mother’s dire warnings of men seem to be proving true.

In the wake of being rescued by the gallant knight, Sir Gerek, everything that is instilled in Rapunzel by her mother regarding men, has her questioning its validity. Though her knight protector seems arrogant, he also proves to be honourable and curiously pleasant to look at and be with, which greatly perplexes Rapunzel. In Hagenheim, she grows fonder of this gruff though kindly knight despite knowing he has vowed to marry only for riches and rank. Here though in this city of secrets, Rapunzel’s life is turned on its head as mysteries and betrayals uncovered will change her life forever. Will the poor, peasant maiden ever find liberty and love or stay chained to lies and deception?

It was almost dungeon-worthy torture having to set the book down, but then neither did I want to make it to the last page! There was also a wonderful anointing on this tale that lifted my spirit as well as imagination, illustrating the scriptural admonition of ‘not leaning unto your own understanding’. The Golden Braid is a truly charming book, and a top favorite of mine for 2015!

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Available to purchase at these places: Amazon; CBD; Barnes & Noble; BAM; and others!

GIVEAWAY: (CFP) We have a copy of the book for one blessed winner!  Answer this question--what aspect of Noela's review has you yearning to read The Golden Braid?
(Remember to leave your email for contact purposes should you win. Using (at) and (dot) will protect you against spammers.)

Teresa S. Mathews Reviews CHIVALROUS by Dina Sleiman

CHIVALROUS by Dina Sleiman
Bethany House Publishers 2015

Reviewed by Teresa S. Mathews
5 Stars*****

If you love tales from the Knights of the Round Table, or if you just love a tale where chivalry is alive and well, then you are going to love this book! Author Dina Sleiman sweeps us away to a time alive with thrilling jousting tournaments, strong, brave knights and subdued, fair maidens.

From the first page, you are quickly drawn into the story with a personal account of what a courageous knight is thinking while facing the opponent. The excitement builds as the two began to gallop full-force at each other with lances at the ready; anyone witnessing this would never know the secret well hidden within the chain mail and armor; the brave well-trained knight is a WOMAN and her opponent, her maid!

Gwendolyn Barnes is not your typical lady in waiting, she is certainly not one to wait on life to pass her by. From climbing trees to sword playing with her two older brothers who are knights, Gwen is always out looking for excitement. There is no need for her to learn the quiet things a lady should know, she is too tall to be a simpering little lady at home waiting for her brave knight to show up; she wants to be that brave knight!! Until Gwen falls under the spell of Allen of Ellsworth, one of the former Ghosts of Farthingale Forest. Could Allen be the one man that could tame Gwen’s restlessness or will he be the one that sets her free to follow her dream?

What an exciting story this is, in my opinion, when Dina Sleiman decided to write the Valiant Hearts Series it was pure genius. The first story in the series, Dauntless was wonderful, but this one is by far my favorite. It may be listed under the young adult genre, but it is just perfect for anyone that loves excitement regardless of age. The characters are endearing and certainly courageous and brave despite being young. Even though it is set in the medieval times they face some of the same challenges young adults face today.  If you are looking for an enjoyable time away from the mundane, grab a copy of this and be prepared to be swept away to an adventure of a lifetime! 

For an explanation of how Ms. Sleiman came up with the idea for this exciting series click on this link; Valiant Heart Series to be taken to the Valiant Heart Series Blog.


You can purchase this amazing treasure and other books by Ms. Sleiman at AMAZON, CBD, and BAM.

GIVEAWAY: Ms. Sleiman has graciously offered a "Valiant Hearts Swag Giveaway" to one blessed commenter. We're also giving away an ebook copy of Chivalrous! *Please leave your email address using (at) or (dot) to protect yourself from spammers - so we can contact you if you are our blessed winner!* 
 

Teresa S. Mathews Reviews Sword of Forgiveness by Debbie Lynne Costello

Sword of Forgiveness

Winds of Change Book 1

Debbie Lynne Costello

Published by Wakefield Press

With this enchanting story Debbie Lynne Costello leads us back to 1398 England where the land was under the rule of the powerful King Richard, and chivalrous knights helped keep order.

Since childhood Brithwin longed for her father's love but all she ever received from him was cruelty and torture. Thankfully she did have a protector in Thomas, the captain of her guard, and a spiritual father in Pater, the man who taught her of Christ. On the day her father died, she felt no sorrow, only relief that he could no longer torment her. Finally free, Brithwin vows she will take care of Hawkwood and never be under the rule of a man again. That vow was soon to be broken when the missive from the King arrives with the name of her soon to be husband; Sir Royce of Rosen Craig.

When Royce returns home from a skirmish to Rosen Craig he is expecting to be greeted by his beloved family, but the only greeting he receives is his servant telling him his parents and brother are dead; supposedly killed by men from Hawkwood. When Royce hears this news, he is angered that his future bride could have something to do with his family being killed.

When Lord Royce arrives to take possession of Hawkwood and his bride to be, Brithwin defies him at every turn, which makes Royce more determined than ever to tame her. Even though Thomas assures Brithwin Lord Royce is an honorable man, she fears he is a man like her father, only seeing her as chattel, not someone to cherish or love. Will Royce and Brithwin be able to overcome the misgivings they have for each other?

Debbie Lynne Costello has hit the mark when it comes to storytelling; I literally could not put this book down until I had devoured it. I must confess I have a soft spot for stories about fair maidens and the handsome knights that save them; this story was that and so much more. There are thrilling twists and a few surprises that will keep you enthralled. The storyline between Royce and Brithwin was quite breathtaking and exasperating at times as these flawed people seek to find a never ending love. So if you want to spend a few hours in an enchanted time, be sure to grab a copy of this book!

You may purchase this at Amazon. 

GIVEAWAY: One of our commenters this week will receive a copy of Debbie Lynne's stunning new book!!! Available in ebook or paperback (ebook only for foreign winners.)

Sword of Forgiveness by Debbie Lynne Costello - Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Sword of Forgiveness by Debbie Lynne Costello

Sword of Forgiveness by Debbie Lynne Costello
Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Five Stars *****

This is Debbie Lynne's debut full length novel! What a page turner!!! It was hard to turn off my Kindle each night as I was reading Sword of Forgiveness. Set in medieval times, our heroine, Lady Brithwin (isn't that a pretty name?) has known much sorrow in her life. Her abusive father has died and now she can avoid the tortures he inflicted on her. She's being forced into a marriage with a man she doesn't know - Royce. Meanwhile our hero, Royce, returns from a horrific battle to find his entire family dead. The evidence is said to point evil-doers from Brithwin's castle as having done the deed. And now, Royce learns he is to marry her! He's not too happy about that and seeks to get to the bottom of his family's murders. In the meanwhile, his uncle, as well as his brother's fiance, Clarice, stir up trouble. And someone is trying to cause damage to both Royce and Brithwin.

This book reminded me very much of Julie Garwood's Scottish books, but is a Christian historical romance not secular and is clean reading.  Wonderful writing throughout although I did get a little upset with both Royce and Brithwin for being rather clueless about one of the antagonists in the story. This story should make the Christian bestseller list for historical romance!  I expect it to be on my Best of 2015 list next December!!!

Highly recommend!

You can purchase a copy at Amazon.

Giveaway: One of our commenters will receive a copy of Debbie Lynne's stunning new book!!! Available in ebook or paperback (ebook only for foreign winners.)