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Moonlight & Magnolia #2
Bride by Beguilement
Kirsten Macleod is in a bind. Her father’s last will and testament stipulates that she must either marry, lead the plantation into a first year profit, or forfeit it to her uncle. But marriage is proving no easy option. Every suitor seems more enamored with the land than with her. Until her handsome neighbor sweeps into her stable to the rescue… of her beloved horse.
Silas Westbrook’s last year at veterinary school ends abruptly when he is called home to care for his young orphaned sisters. Troubles compound when he finds an insurmountable lien on the only home they’ve ever known, and the unscrupulous banker is calling in the loan. The neighbor’s kind-hearted and beautiful stable girl, Krissy, provides the feminine influence the girls desperately need. If only he had a future to offer her. But to save his sisters from poverty, he should set his sights on Krissy’s wealthy relative Kirsten Macleod, the elusive new heiress. Surely this hard-working and unassuming young lady and the landowner could not be one and the same?
Silas Westbrook’s last year at veterinary school ends abruptly when he is called home to care for his young orphaned sisters. Troubles compound when he finds an insurmountable lien on the only home they’ve ever known, and the unscrupulous banker is calling in the loan. The neighbor’s kind-hearted and beautiful stable girl, Krissy, provides the feminine influence the girls desperately need. If only he had a future to offer her. But to save his sisters from poverty, he should set his sights on Krissy’s wealthy relative Kirsten Macleod, the elusive new heiress. Surely this hard-working and unassuming young lady and the landowner could not be one and the same?
- GenresInspirationalHistorical
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2023
1 person is currently reading
15 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 23, 2024
The conditions of a last will and testament must be followed. This means that Kirsten has a limited amount of time to show a profit with the plantation her father left behind, or she loses it to her uncle. What a dilemma for a young lady in 1881 in Sunset, Texas.
Learning to trust that the Lord has her life in His hands turns out to be a rather hard lesson. Accidents, thievery, fire and kidnapping will keep you wondering right up till the end. Will she make the right choices, or will she lose everything?
An early copy was received through Wakefield Press. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
Learning to trust that the Lord has her life in His hands turns out to be a rather hard lesson. Accidents, thievery, fire and kidnapping will keep you wondering right up till the end. Will she make the right choices, or will she lose everything?
An early copy was received through Wakefield Press. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
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October 20, 2023This is a well-crafted story with solid faith elements. I've never read any of Costello's books before. She is now on my find more by this author list. The unexpected twists added to my need to keep turning the pages and just read one more chapter. The Scottish words added to the realism of those characters. The misunderstandings between Krissy and Silas once resolved made their happily-ever-after even sweeter.
January 18, 2024
I am always glad when I get caught up with the story line and feet like I am present with the characters, events and all that transpire till the end. Costello did exactly that with Bride by Beguilement. This Christian historical set in Texas brings together an heiress and a local farmer who both faced struggles and deadlines to see their parents’ last will met.
This tale had intrigue, mystery, realistic characters, faith and romance. I admired the strength, compassion and love for others that Kirsten and Silas had for others. Kirsten did not consider herself above others in caring for the plantation she was trying to save. Silas had a lot on his plate but wasn’t afraid of work to accomplish what needed done for his father’s farm. The twists and turns as to who was behind all the lies, thievery, violent acts of pain gave way to reading till answers were found. Costello penned a gentle yet strong faith message in this lovely tale.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for the book tour with Celebrate Lit Bloggers. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own thoughts.
This tale had intrigue, mystery, realistic characters, faith and romance. I admired the strength, compassion and love for others that Kirsten and Silas had for others. Kirsten did not consider herself above others in caring for the plantation she was trying to save. Silas had a lot on his plate but wasn’t afraid of work to accomplish what needed done for his father’s farm. The twists and turns as to who was behind all the lies, thievery, violent acts of pain gave way to reading till answers were found. Costello penned a gentle yet strong faith message in this lovely tale.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for the book tour with Celebrate Lit Bloggers. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own thoughts.
November 2, 2023
This is a very enjoyable story and I was so happy to be able to read it and enjoy getting to know the characters, their shortcomings and their need to trust. Which in both the main characters, this was not so easy to do. The story has quite a few ups and downs that will hold your interest through the very end.
I am sure you will love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
I am sure you will love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
January 21, 2024
“If only forgiveness was enough. No anger remained, no bitterness, but no trust either. He had to believe in her, and he found it impossible.”
Preconceived notions almost caused me to miss this great historical fiction novel, Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynn Costello. I saw the cover, with a horse, a fence, a woman and a man with a “cowboy hat.” I thought, “Nope! Not really into cowboy stories!” But then I read the blurb. (Moral- look at book covers AND read blurbs!)
I really enjoyed this story about two young-adult neighbors, both left with the impossible task of managing their family’s land on their own, and turning a profit besides. Plus, Silas is left with two young siblings he hardly knows to rear on his own.
While I am not necessarily a horse lover, Costello is, and works her wordsmith magic weaving the romantic tension back and forth between Silas and Krissy while sprinkling her horse-loving fairy-dust over the reader as well. I personally cared about Briagha, Silas’s Arabians, and the land that seemed cursed, but was so valued. I did want to shake the two protagonists into better communication skills. And to give thirty lashes for their projection of their past relationships into their present. But perhaps I knew where the author was taking the story? Until… Costello presents some really great plot twists!
I highly recommend this book. The romance is great, I loved the little girls, and I had not one, or two, but four fave secondary characters when all was said and done. Read the book!
I was gifted a copy of the book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“I ken you have prayed aboot your troubles, and you gave them to the Lord. In a perfect world, that would be it, and you would never fash again. But we live in a fallen world. You have to work daily at giving up the desire to take every problem on yourself. Every morning you need to wake up and lay your burdens at the Lord’s feet.”
“A backup plan doesn’t take too much faith…”
“There was no comfort. She drew in a deep breath. Yes, there was. The Lord was her comfort. His Word promised her that.”
Preconceived notions almost caused me to miss this great historical fiction novel, Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynn Costello. I saw the cover, with a horse, a fence, a woman and a man with a “cowboy hat.” I thought, “Nope! Not really into cowboy stories!” But then I read the blurb. (Moral- look at book covers AND read blurbs!)
I really enjoyed this story about two young-adult neighbors, both left with the impossible task of managing their family’s land on their own, and turning a profit besides. Plus, Silas is left with two young siblings he hardly knows to rear on his own.
While I am not necessarily a horse lover, Costello is, and works her wordsmith magic weaving the romantic tension back and forth between Silas and Krissy while sprinkling her horse-loving fairy-dust over the reader as well. I personally cared about Briagha, Silas’s Arabians, and the land that seemed cursed, but was so valued. I did want to shake the two protagonists into better communication skills. And to give thirty lashes for their projection of their past relationships into their present. But perhaps I knew where the author was taking the story? Until… Costello presents some really great plot twists!
I highly recommend this book. The romance is great, I loved the little girls, and I had not one, or two, but four fave secondary characters when all was said and done. Read the book!
I was gifted a copy of the book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“I ken you have prayed aboot your troubles, and you gave them to the Lord. In a perfect world, that would be it, and you would never fash again. But we live in a fallen world. You have to work daily at giving up the desire to take every problem on yourself. Every morning you need to wake up and lay your burdens at the Lord’s feet.”
“A backup plan doesn’t take too much faith…”
“There was no comfort. She drew in a deep breath. Yes, there was. The Lord was her comfort. His Word promised her that.”
January 28, 2024
Silas and Kirsten were a good match for each other. It was clear that they both held similar values and were kind and honest people. Both had some big trust issues though. Their issues were understandable, but it definitely made it harder for both of them to get over the hurdle that came about when Silas misunderstood who Kirsten was when they first met.
There seemed to be a lot of shady dealings going on around their farms. Someone was definitely up to no good. It was hurting Silas as he was trying to pay off his father’s debts on the land. It also was hurting Kirsten as she was trying to turn a profit so that she would not be forced to marry to meet her father’s marriage requirement in his will.
This story dealt with learning to forgive and move forward, as well as slowing down and turning things over to God.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
There seemed to be a lot of shady dealings going on around their farms. Someone was definitely up to no good. It was hurting Silas as he was trying to pay off his father’s debts on the land. It also was hurting Kirsten as she was trying to turn a profit so that she would not be forced to marry to meet her father’s marriage requirement in his will.
This story dealt with learning to forgive and move forward, as well as slowing down and turning things over to God.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
January 20, 2024
I really liked this book. It really kept me turning the pages. It has lots of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. This story proves that we have to turn everything over to God because He really does have our best interests at heart. This is a story of forgiveness. If
you are reader that likes stories that has lots of tension within the pages, then I recommend “Bride By Beguilement”by Debbie Lynn Costello. This is a story that has the two main characters believing false assumptions about each other and other people. I really loved the ending. I hope this isn’t a spoiler alert but the wedding present from the groom to the bride was perfect.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
you are reader that likes stories that has lots of tension within the pages, then I recommend “Bride By Beguilement”by Debbie Lynn Costello. This is a story that has the two main characters believing false assumptions about each other and other people. I really loved the ending. I hope this isn’t a spoiler alert but the wedding present from the groom to the bride was perfect.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
January 29, 2024
I really enjoy Historical Christian Fiction books. Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynee Castello is the latest in this genre that I have read. It is Book 2 in the Moonlight and Magnolia Series. I have read Book 1 and have been anxiously anticipiting Book 2!
Kirsten Macleod's father recently passed away and he left VERY strict instructions for Kirsten in the Will. Kirsten must find a suitor to marry, make a profit for the Plantation within the first year. or her uncle gets the Plantation and all that was willed to Kirsten. She would love to marry but she feels the men who were suitors are only really interested in her land. Silas Westbrook is her neighbor and he has come back home from Veterinary School to care for his sisters. Silas is really worried about their future when he finds out that the home he has known all his life and wants his sisters to continue to live in, has a lein on it and he is in jeopardy of losing it. Silas meets Kirsten and discovers she is wealthy and he thinks this could be his way our of poverty. Will there be a relationship between Silas and Kirsten? Could a mutual relationship help solve problems for both of them?
WOW, this storyline is quite interesting and I was reeled into the story from the very first few pages. I LOVE that Kirsten is an independent woman who wants to fulifill her father's stipulations for his will. Silas is very admirable as he knows he wants what is best for his young sisters. The relationship between Kirsten and Silas grows slowly and they both had "baggage" to work through. I LOVE that the author has a strong Faith Based message in this book! The many twists and turns made the book very exciting. I highly recommend this book! FANTASTIC BOOK!
Kirsten Macleod's father recently passed away and he left VERY strict instructions for Kirsten in the Will. Kirsten must find a suitor to marry, make a profit for the Plantation within the first year. or her uncle gets the Plantation and all that was willed to Kirsten. She would love to marry but she feels the men who were suitors are only really interested in her land. Silas Westbrook is her neighbor and he has come back home from Veterinary School to care for his sisters. Silas is really worried about their future when he finds out that the home he has known all his life and wants his sisters to continue to live in, has a lein on it and he is in jeopardy of losing it. Silas meets Kirsten and discovers she is wealthy and he thinks this could be his way our of poverty. Will there be a relationship between Silas and Kirsten? Could a mutual relationship help solve problems for both of them?
WOW, this storyline is quite interesting and I was reeled into the story from the very first few pages. I LOVE that Kirsten is an independent woman who wants to fulifill her father's stipulations for his will. Silas is very admirable as he knows he wants what is best for his young sisters. The relationship between Kirsten and Silas grows slowly and they both had "baggage" to work through. I LOVE that the author has a strong Faith Based message in this book! The many twists and turns made the book very exciting. I highly recommend this book! FANTASTIC BOOK!
October 9, 2023
Book 2 in the Moonlight and Magnolia series offers another charming Scottish character amid a southern setting. This time the heroine, a cousin to the braw hero in Bride by Blackmail, takes center stage.
Kirsten Macleod will inherit her late parents’ beautiful plantation if she can turn a profit in the first year, or if she can find a suitable husband. If not, her uncle will take the land and all of her parents’ hard work.
She faces theft, an unscrupulous suitor, who wants her land more than he wants her, and the vanishing of her workforce, but when her beloved horse comes up sick, it might turn out to be a blessing in disguise.
Her handsome neighbor has just returned home from veterinary school due to the untimely death of his father, leaving him to raise his little sisters. Helping his new neighbor’s horse proves an answer to prayer to put food on the table. The lovely stable girl next door is so kind to him and his sisters. Too bad she doesn’t have the financial largess of her heiress cousin, the mysterious miss McLeod. It would help him settle his inherited debts and save the family horse farm.
If only they were one and the same person… But an unscrupulous banker lies between any happily ever afters for them. Unless they can forgive past betrayals and learn to trust— both the Lord and the people He places in their path.
This was a page turner with strong characters and plenty of conflict. Yes, you will be rooting for the hero and heroine when you don’t want to knock their stubborn heads together. A wonderful, romantic escape.
Kirsten Macleod will inherit her late parents’ beautiful plantation if she can turn a profit in the first year, or if she can find a suitable husband. If not, her uncle will take the land and all of her parents’ hard work.
She faces theft, an unscrupulous suitor, who wants her land more than he wants her, and the vanishing of her workforce, but when her beloved horse comes up sick, it might turn out to be a blessing in disguise.
Her handsome neighbor has just returned home from veterinary school due to the untimely death of his father, leaving him to raise his little sisters. Helping his new neighbor’s horse proves an answer to prayer to put food on the table. The lovely stable girl next door is so kind to him and his sisters. Too bad she doesn’t have the financial largess of her heiress cousin, the mysterious miss McLeod. It would help him settle his inherited debts and save the family horse farm.
If only they were one and the same person… But an unscrupulous banker lies between any happily ever afters for them. Unless they can forgive past betrayals and learn to trust— both the Lord and the people He places in their path.
This was a page turner with strong characters and plenty of conflict. Yes, you will be rooting for the hero and heroine when you don’t want to knock their stubborn heads together. A wonderful, romantic escape.
January 25, 2024
Bride by Beguilement by author Debbie Lynn Costello is a Christian historical romance novel. This is book two in the author’s Moonlight and Magnolias series. I had not read book one and was able to follow the story with no trouble. This could be read as a stand alone as well as part of the series.
This is the story of plantation heiress Kirsten Macleod. She is a delightful, caring, smart, hardworking, beautiful young woman. It is also the story of Silas, her handsome, hardworking neighbor. Both of these characters along with the secondary were extremely well thought and believable.
I enjoyed the author’s pleasant style of writing. It is easy to follow and provides enough details to sweep readers away to the time and place of the story. There were a few twists and turns, and some predictable things. I found a couple of situations a bit farfetched to be believable. The Christian message is woven throughout the entire book, which is refreshing.
This had mystery, intrigue, romance, as well as two adorable little girls and animals. I was invested in the story and characters immediately and found myself not wanting to put the book down until it was finished. For me, the end was a bit rushed.
I highly recommend this charming tale. It would be a delightful choice for a reading club. There is so much to discuss. It gets a 4 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by CelebrateLit, but these are my honest words.
This is the story of plantation heiress Kirsten Macleod. She is a delightful, caring, smart, hardworking, beautiful young woman. It is also the story of Silas, her handsome, hardworking neighbor. Both of these characters along with the secondary were extremely well thought and believable.
I enjoyed the author’s pleasant style of writing. It is easy to follow and provides enough details to sweep readers away to the time and place of the story. There were a few twists and turns, and some predictable things. I found a couple of situations a bit farfetched to be believable. The Christian message is woven throughout the entire book, which is refreshing.
This had mystery, intrigue, romance, as well as two adorable little girls and animals. I was invested in the story and characters immediately and found myself not wanting to put the book down until it was finished. For me, the end was a bit rushed.
I highly recommend this charming tale. It would be a delightful choice for a reading club. There is so much to discuss. It gets a 4 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by CelebrateLit, but these are my honest words.
January 22, 2024
Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynne Costello is a Christian historical romance novel. Imagine your father, your only living parent, dies and leaves a will that stipulates you have to marry, ensure that your plantation turns a profit, or forfeit the plantation to an uncle. This situation is exactly what happened to Kristen Macleod. Add in the fact that she believes her uncle is a horrible man, and the dynamics in this book keep you reading. Plus, all the men around her are only interested in her money, and one of them refuses to take “No!” for an answer.
On top of everything Kristen deals with, add Silas Westbrook and his young sisters; this book will truly keep you reading. Kristen Westbrook, also known as Krissy, encounters Silas, but he believes she is a poor relative. As the two get to know each other, they develop feelings for each other. With an unexpected mortgage on his property, missing horses, and more, the author provides an amazing story I could not put down. The twists and turns in this book provide the perfect setup for an amazing book.
So, if you are looking for a Christian historical romance, check out Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynne Costello for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
On top of everything Kristen deals with, add Silas Westbrook and his young sisters; this book will truly keep you reading. Kristen Westbrook, also known as Krissy, encounters Silas, but he believes she is a poor relative. As the two get to know each other, they develop feelings for each other. With an unexpected mortgage on his property, missing horses, and more, the author provides an amazing story I could not put down. The twists and turns in this book provide the perfect setup for an amazing book.
So, if you are looking for a Christian historical romance, check out Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynne Costello for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
January 30, 2024
I liked how the author brought Silas and Kirsten together. They both need each other to overcome some difficult situations. Kirsten has inherited the plantation. Now I would be thrilled if it was me. But there are a few problems with this windfall. In the will it clearly states that Kirsten has three choices. I don’t think she liked any of them, I wonder what her choice will be? She adores the plantation and her cherished horse but with her father making unfair decisions for her she doesn’t know what to do.
Silas has his own problems with raising his two young sisters alone, and trying to save the home and land before the bank takes it over. He has a big problem with no solutions. Looks like our two main characters have similar problems. Perhaps they should get together and help each other out.
There is a little misunderstanding between Silas and Kirsten when he thinks Kirsten is poor and he needs to find out who owns this wonderful plantation. The author crafts a good story of mystery, faith and misunderstandings in the story that will keep you glued to the book. It is a fun adventure and be sure to pay attention to who is behind the unexplained disappearing things that cause a little uncertainty between our two main characters.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion
Silas has his own problems with raising his two young sisters alone, and trying to save the home and land before the bank takes it over. He has a big problem with no solutions. Looks like our two main characters have similar problems. Perhaps they should get together and help each other out.
There is a little misunderstanding between Silas and Kirsten when he thinks Kirsten is poor and he needs to find out who owns this wonderful plantation. The author crafts a good story of mystery, faith and misunderstandings in the story that will keep you glued to the book. It is a fun adventure and be sure to pay attention to who is behind the unexplained disappearing things that cause a little uncertainty between our two main characters.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion
December 14, 2023
This novel hit all of the high points for why I love a book and rate it highly. Both the hero and heroine were very likable, humble and thoughtful of others which is even more astounding as she is an heiress, albeit an atypical one. There was plenty of activity on both home fronts, Silas’ farm and Kirsten’s plantation, as well as several mysterious happenings that needed to be addressed and solved. In addition to the page-turning action and dialogue the main characters possessed a strong Christian faith in the midst of their struggles with mentions of prayer that seemed as natural to them as breathing. The non-villainous secondary characters including Silas’ little sisters along with Jeremy and Calum added much to the story with their unique personalities. Add in a plot twist I didn’t guess and a strong and emotional conclusion and this was a book I had a hard time putting down! Definitely recommend this to readers of historical Christian romance and fiction.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed above are completely my own.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed above are completely my own.
February 1, 2024
Bride by Beguilement is a wonderful marriage of convenience type novel that you’re going to want to read quickly from start to finish! One girl has her inheritance tied up in a will. She can’t inherit unless she turns a profit or gets married. If she doesn’t do one or the other the plantation reverts to her uncle. Oh, and it’s the 1880s.
Things keep going wrong for Krissy on the farm. It’s like someone is sabotaging her. Could that be possible? Who can she turn to for help?
When her neighbor is also having trouble holding onto his land and supporting his sisters can they come up with a solution that will work for both of them? And is Krissy the same person as Kirsten?
The characters are amazing and I truly fell in love with them. I’m hoping to have more come from their story.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Things keep going wrong for Krissy on the farm. It’s like someone is sabotaging her. Could that be possible? Who can she turn to for help?
When her neighbor is also having trouble holding onto his land and supporting his sisters can they come up with a solution that will work for both of them? And is Krissy the same person as Kirsten?
The characters are amazing and I truly fell in love with them. I’m hoping to have more come from their story.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
January 31, 2024
What I think you should know:
Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynne Costello is the second book in the Moonlight and Magnolia series. It is set in Sunset, Texas in 1881. The book follows Heiress Kristen Macleod and veterinary student Silas Westbrook.
What you might need to know:
Kristen and Silas both lost their parents prior to the start of this book.
What I think about this book:
When a fortune is at stake mystery lies at every corner and danger abounds. Kristen has been thrust into the role of Heiress and doesn’t know who to trust. Silas has come home to find his father had to mortgage their farm and he is going to have to have a miracle to save it. When misunderstandings stop their budding relationship, love seems like the least of their worries. I really enjoyed this story. Costello did an amazing job creating characters and a story that kept me engaged from first page to last. I look forward to reading more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynne Costello is the second book in the Moonlight and Magnolia series. It is set in Sunset, Texas in 1881. The book follows Heiress Kristen Macleod and veterinary student Silas Westbrook.
What you might need to know:
Kristen and Silas both lost their parents prior to the start of this book.
What I think about this book:
When a fortune is at stake mystery lies at every corner and danger abounds. Kristen has been thrust into the role of Heiress and doesn’t know who to trust. Silas has come home to find his father had to mortgage their farm and he is going to have to have a miracle to save it. When misunderstandings stop their budding relationship, love seems like the least of their worries. I really enjoyed this story. Costello did an amazing job creating characters and a story that kept me engaged from first page to last. I look forward to reading more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
February 4, 2024
This sweet and clean Christian Historical novel has a little bit of everything in this intriguing storyline: mystery with a touch of suspense, action, romance, faith, and two adorable little girls who need a mother.
It was easy to immediately like the two main characters, Kirsten and Silas. Kirsten had just inherited a sizable estate and ranch from her father. The catch to Kirsten retaining her inheritance is that she must either make the ranch profitable or get married. Silas also has a problem. He’s just become the guardian of his two little sisters, and finds that his father’s ranch is scheduled foreclosure. It would seem that the ideal solution to both their problems would be for them to marry. That would have been the easy path for this storyline to take, but the author does a great job on allowing these characters to face obstacles that help them grow in faith, hope, and love. This is my first book to read by this author, and I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher.
It was easy to immediately like the two main characters, Kirsten and Silas. Kirsten had just inherited a sizable estate and ranch from her father. The catch to Kirsten retaining her inheritance is that she must either make the ranch profitable or get married. Silas also has a problem. He’s just become the guardian of his two little sisters, and finds that his father’s ranch is scheduled foreclosure. It would seem that the ideal solution to both their problems would be for them to marry. That would have been the easy path for this storyline to take, but the author does a great job on allowing these characters to face obstacles that help them grow in faith, hope, and love. This is my first book to read by this author, and I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher.
January 20, 2024
This intriguing historical novel contains a fun premise with a twist on the marriage of convenience trope along with a case of mistaken identity, horses, and young orphaned girls. I was swept right up into the compelling drama and surprised by the great plot twists. The endearing story has much to offer readers and can be enjoyed by those who like captivating love tales—whether modern or historical. Its characters seem so genuine and authentic, whether the good ones or the bad guys. I’m still not quite sure about the main character’s uncle, though . . . We witness growth in all the main characters as the drama progresses. I have not read the first book in the series, but this one can stand totally on its own. Bride by Beguilement would also make a great choice for book clubs to read and discuss. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
January 20, 2024
Bride by Beguilement, by Debbie Lynne Costello, is an enjoyable story to read. It is well written, easy to imagine and contains good characters. I found myself guessing who was causing issues at the Macleod plantation and why. I enjoyed the interaction between Kristen and Silas and his younger sisters. Both Kristen and Silas as are good strong characters that put others before themselves. It is enjoyable to see how down to earth and hard working they both are. I found the interaction between Silas and his sisters fun to read, especially the parts of how he dressed them. It is easy to see how much Sila's father cared for Silas and helping him reach his dreams. This is a fun story to read that will keep the readers guessing to the end of who is after Kristen's plantation and why.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
February 6, 2024
Two side by side farmers both face a dilemma. Kirsten must show a profit, or marry within a year or her whole estate will go to her uncle. Silas owes on his mortgage which is due very soon or he loses his horse farm. He faces being evicted along with his two young sisters that he is raising. The solution seems obvious to me, but you have pride, distrust and problems showing their ugly heads. Sometimes I just want to knock some of the characters in the head! But there wouldn’t be a good story or maybe a short novella if I had my way.
This was very heart grabbing at times as well as danger to face for some of the characters. The pages wouldn’t turn fast enough in some of the chapters. It was a throughly positive read for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.
This was very heart grabbing at times as well as danger to face for some of the characters. The pages wouldn’t turn fast enough in some of the chapters. It was a throughly positive read for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.
November 12, 2023
I loved Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynne Costello! A beloved horse, a Scottish heiress, a handsome neighbor, disappearing tools, mysterious happenings and darling little half sisters make this book one you can't put down! Kirsten MacLeod aka Krissy is an excellent female protagonist. Silas Westbrooke was a little dense but I loved him even though he put his sisters' dresses on them backwards! Silas and Kirsten learn to let God have control of their lives. You don't want to miss this new book by Debbie Lynne Costello. I received an complimentary advance e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.
September 28, 2023
This book is a wonderful mixture of complicated motives, family ties and commitments, mysterious dangers, and friendship becoming deeper.
I was excited to be part of the street team for this book as I love Debbie Lynne's writing. I was immediately involved in the story of Kirsten and Calum and their individual challenges. There were times I wished I could make them stop reacting to assumptions and be open with each other! I guess when you get that involved with a story, you know it's a good one!
I was excited to be part of the street team for this book as I love Debbie Lynne's writing. I was immediately involved in the story of Kirsten and Calum and their individual challenges. There were times I wished I could make them stop reacting to assumptions and be open with each other! I guess when you get that involved with a story, you know it's a good one!
January 19, 2024
Oh dear. What a lot of trouble was caused by both Kirsten and Silas assuming much about the other. If people would ask questions these conundrums wouldn’t happen. But then author Debbie Lynne Costello wouldn’t have had a story to write.
Christian historical fiction, this story has a lot going for it. Intrigue, suspense, lots of emotions, and a clean romance. Well developed main characters and two of the cutest little girls made this an enjoyable story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Christian historical fiction, this story has a lot going for it. Intrigue, suspense, lots of emotions, and a clean romance. Well developed main characters and two of the cutest little girls made this an enjoyable story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
January 25, 2024
I enjoyed this story. I liked how the story grabbed my attention from the first page and I wanted to keep reading. I also thought the characters were relatable and I liked seeing them grow through out the story. I also liked seeing Kirsten and Silas fall in love and learning how to heal from things from their past. I also liked seeing how the Lord helped them to forgive and grow. I thought this was a well written story.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
December 14, 2023
wonderful story
Rich with twists and turns, mystery, great plot and realistic period. I love horses and romance. This story is a great full ride. You will love how it plays out. Cute secondary characters. I love this author more familiar with her ancient historical. But her relationship with our Heavenly Father and scripture references are all here. More please
Rich with twists and turns, mystery, great plot and realistic period. I love horses and romance. This story is a great full ride. You will love how it plays out. Cute secondary characters. I love this author more familiar with her ancient historical. But her relationship with our Heavenly Father and scripture references are all here. More please
September 28, 2023
What a wonderful read! This book hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. It has just the right amount of drama, conflict and relying on God to get you through.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 28, 2023
Women didn't have too many rights and the terms of her father's will, wasn't what she expected. I enjoyed how far she would go to get control of her home and land and not have to marry. Loved the ending.
November 5, 2023
The characters brought out all kinds of emotions for me which made the story engaging. Costello is an excellent wordsmith and brings a unique dynamic to all of her historical novels. I’ve enjoyed all of her stories so far. Pick one up today!
July 28, 2025
I endorsed this excellent novel!
"With characters who will seem so real that you'll be rooting for them as if they are, this page-turner will pull you into a story world that captures you until the thrilling end."
You'll love it!!!
"With characters who will seem so real that you'll be rooting for them as if they are, this page-turner will pull you into a story world that captures you until the thrilling end."
You'll love it!!!
December 14, 2023
After reading Debbie Lynne Costello’s first book from her Moonlight and Magnolia series, Bride by Blackmail, I have been eagerly awaiting the second installment. Bride by Beguilement does not disappoint. I adored the main characters, Kirsten/ Krissy and Silas. I could understand her guarded demeanor. I could see myself in her. I love that she was able to be herself with Silas. I had to keep reading to find out how Silas would react once he finds out her secret. I loved the whole book.
Bride by Beguilement will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I would give it one hundred stars if I could. I highly recommend it for fans and lovers of clean and sweet romance. I am hoping Debbie Lynne Costello will be releasing a third addition to her Moonlight and Magnolia series.
I received a digital copy of Debbie Lynne Costello’s Bride by Beguilement from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion
Bride by Beguilement will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I would give it one hundred stars if I could. I highly recommend it for fans and lovers of clean and sweet romance. I am hoping Debbie Lynne Costello will be releasing a third addition to her Moonlight and Magnolia series.
I received a digital copy of Debbie Lynne Costello’s Bride by Beguilement from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion
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