The Perfect Bride

Winds of Change

by Debbie Lynne Costello

Avice Touchet has always dreamed of marrying for love and that love would be her best friend, Philip Greslet. She’s waited five years for him to see her as the woman she’s become but when a visiting lord arrives with secrets that could put her father in prison, Avice must consider a sacrificial marriage.

Philip Greslet has worked his whole life for one thing—to be a castellan—and now it is finally in his grasp. But when Avice rebuffs his new lord’s attentions, Philip must convince his best friend to marry the lord against his heart’s inclination to have her as his own.

Genres: Historical

141 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 1, 2018

Reviews

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed Debbie Lynne Costello's work before, both in full-length novels and in her shorter work. Even knowing this, I was a bit surprised at how fully this novella really captured my imagination from the beginning. I found myself relating to Avice and her frustrations as she dealt with Philip's often thick-headedness.

Costello writes in a way that really draws me into the time, not just the dialogue, but also the narration, descriptions, and word choice--like her use of the word "hairsbreadth," for example. It isn't so different that I couldn't understand it, but it also isn't commonly used in my daily vocabulary.

I read with a smile on my face most of the time, all except for when Philip was at his most thick-headed! I highly recommend this novella for those who enjoy historical romance, especially medieval ones, or those who enjoy a friends-to-more kind of story.

I received a review copy of this novella from the author. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are both honest and my own.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Perfect Bride is an immensely enjoyable read. The setting was described in such intricate detail I had no trouble imagining myself walking the dusty roads along with Avice or watching Philip practice sword fighting. I was hooked on the characters and their story, laughing at times and even talking to them (okay, to Philip mostly) a time or two. Lots of sweet moments between them but frustrating ones as well. Philip is a little blind to Avice's love for him, so much so at times I wanted to bonk him! :-)

I highly recommend this well-written long novella to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I was gifted an electronic copy from the author with no requirement to write a review. No compensation has been received.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

"He knew her desire. To marry for love."

Then why does the man who fulfills her every dream for the future still think of her as his "little bird"? It would be infuriating, if it wasn't so sad. Philip Greslet has been Avice's best friend since childhood, but perhaps his dream of becoming a castellan has clouded his thinking to the point of fortifying his heart.

Will Phillip endure watching Avice Touchet marry another, as she determines to protect those whom she loves the most? Enjoy this simple, touching story of an happily-ever-after that nearly ran astray.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Bride is another Medieval Era story by Debbie Lynne Costello. I have read just about everything she has written and she has never disappointed. This one is no exception. I was captivated with Avice and Philip’s story from the start. I had no problem reading the whole novella in just a couple of hours.
I give The Perfect Bride a well deserved 5 plus stars. I highly recommend it! It is definitely money well spent.

[English · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read the full review tomorrow on my website for my Blog Tour post.

[Carrie Pagels · Rating 5 out of 5]

I endorsed this book. Debbie Lynne Costello has a lovely author's voice that comes through in this novella. This book is an engrossing read and a great addition to the series!

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a quick, entertaining read then look no farther. This is a long novella and captures time and place so well. I loved that it had a glossary at the beginning for words from the time period, 1399 England, that might not be recognized readily. The twist at the end was done so well that you didn’t see it coming. Kudos to the author for making this book go so smoothly in so few pages, as it is complete and leaves you smiling.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Karen Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was so cute and sweet! I love any friends turned lovers story, and this one really set apart. Avice and Philip have great chemistry, even if she’s head over heels in love and he’s completely oblivious. They’re so fun to watch, bantering about and goofing off, even in the sweeter moments. But, when a visiting lord has taken note of Avice, could she find herself the wife of such a man, or will Philip finally figure out that the woman he’s been waiting for could be right beside him the entire time? It’s funny and sweet, hopeful and heart-wrenching, and I can’t wait to read more.

[Debbie Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished in a flash!

The Perfect Bride is such a sweet story.
Take a trip into the past and meet Avice and Philip, who have been best friends since childhood. All Avice wants is to marry for love. All Philip wants is to procure a position that would allow him to take care of a wife and family someday.
These two characters play off of each other so well. I truly enjoyed this entire story. And without going into detail, I was totally surprised and amused by a twist at the end. I highly recommend this book! 5 stars to author Debbie Lynne Costello!

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good story. I am not used to reading a lot of these words, so for me reading was a little slower going. But she included a glossary in the front of the book. Oh, that helped so much. I felt like I was Avice. I just connected with her. And her secret love for Philip was delightful and so romantic. And then Philip, was a young man who like many young men, are going after what they perceive is important in life. But I don’t want to spoil what happens. It is a short story and a must read. Took me on a journey and held me there until the end.

[Caryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Costello has crafted a beautiful masterpiece in this novella. Who doesn't enjoy reading about handsome knights and lovely maidens? The medieval era is one of my favorites.

Avice longs to marry for love. Her childhood friend, Philip dreams of becoming castellan. I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. It's nicely paced for a novella with plenty of sparks. I also appreciate the spiritual truths woven into this story.

I recommend this novella to those who enjoy clean, medieval romances.

I won a copy from the author. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short story set in the same castle as book two.

Our heroine is a peasant in love with a knight. The knight is her best friend and she has loved him for a long time, but he only sees her like a little sister (hmmm?). When a nobleman starts to pay attention to her, her knight realizes that he is jealous, but wanting to do what he believes is best for her he encourages her to accept the proposal. Wanting to protect her father and allow her love to have the life he's always dreamed of, she agrees. Oh what a tangled web! But the ending is a bit surprising.

This is a clean read!

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely story with a little suspense thrown in. The ways and traditions of many years ago seem very foreign to us. This novella is set in Medieval times where moving up in your career meant leaving all you knew and pledging allegiance to a new Lord. A noble ambition, to be sure, but was it worth leaving the one you really loved? Would reaching that goal really be worth all that was left behind?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of the book.

[Joan Arning · Rating 4 out of 5]

An unexpected ending at the castle! Avice and Philip are great main characters who have been friends since childhood but Avice realizes she loves Philip! I usually think of life in a medieval castle as being rather serious but the secondary characters of Lord Bryce and Lord Prescott have a great sense of humor! I recommend The Perfect Bride to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I received a complimentary e-book from the author, Debbie Lynne Costello. This is my honest opinion.

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great little read connected to the Winds of Change series, but stands alone and can be read anytime you want a quick, entertaining, medieval story. The well-written novella includes relatable characters, romance, a bit of suspense and even some great humor. Don’t miss reading The Perfect Bride.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful medieval love story. Well written and most engaging. There was a twist of an ending that I truly did not see coming. Highly recommend. I received an Advance Reader Copy from the author. Opinions are my own.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed all of Debbie Lynne's books. This one had some real twists and turns, and as soon as I thought I had it all figured out, it took another turn altogether. A great story, and a really fun read. Highly recommend!

[Deanna Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this romantic medieval love story. Best friends in love but not telling how they feel.. A little suspense, another wanting her hand in marriage and a romantic ending! Love how this author tells a tale! I was gifted a copy and my review is voluntary..

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Debbie Costello for another intriguing novella set in 1399 England. I always feel like I am there in the midst of the turmoil of the middle Ages.

[Karen Hadley · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best in this series

I totally loved this book. The characters personalities were awesome. The story line with a huge surprise at the end that was sooooo good!

[Alanna Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matchmakers applenty

A wonderful story woven in a medieval castle! DebbieLynne once again masterfully pulled me in the story from page one. Couldn't put it down.

[Deon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this on #KindleUnlimited

[unknown · Rating 1 out of 5]

Feel good

The more I read Debbie Lynne Costellos books the more enthralled I become.
The stories are good not only in content but the Faith and love for our Heavenly Father.
The Author shows love in many ways...the beautiful lovebirds man and woman and the offensive of Christ.
Thank you Debbie your books give me a feel good attitude.