Deirdre Mackenzie has spent her life hiding from her father and hating the English. However, when she is caught stealing from an English laird, his unexpected kindness begins to melt away her hatred and strums lonely heartstrings longing for love. Bryce Warwick discovers the “boy” caught with his livestock is actually a young woman. After several attempts to lure the truth from her, he determines she is as deceitful as his late fiancée who nearly cost him his life. But the woman is the least of his worries with the turbulence brought on by threats of another border war and by King Richard's distrust of the nobles. With old wounds in need of healing and adversaries who would ruin their chances at true love, both must learn to trust in a way they never knew possible. The stakes are high, secrets prevail, and treason is just a kiss away.
'It was a frightening thing to leave everything in God's hands.'
I absolutely love a tale set in medieval times and Debbie Lynne Costello has done this one well. She has populated her story with wonderful, believable characters and a plot that had me boning up on my British history! Set during the reign of King Richard II, and then some, Costello keeps her readers on the edge of their seats as we watch the border fractions and the cutthroat actions common during that time period.
'Did God really put evil men in high places to rule over innocent people?'
I love it when an author writes in such a way that I feel connected to their characters and I did here. Very well. Even secondary characters. And pets, one a very unusual one, but you'll have to read the book to find out how unusual. Well done! Highly recommended.
My thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book. I was not compensated and the opinion in this review is my own.
What an incredible treat to read! I found myself setting it aside for a few moments just to gather my thoughts - and perhaps because I was a little worried about how some of the characters were going to survive to tell the tale. The author has a masterful way of drawing you into the story, so much so, that you most certainly champion some of these unforgettable characters over others.
There was much conflict between Scotland and England in 1399, especially along the border between the two countries. This led to forays into the other’s country to steal what could be taken, which also precipitated a feeling of general distrust between many. Deirdre Mackenzie had been removed from those she loved as a small child and thus did not trust anyone. Bryce Warwick, Lord of Rosen Craig had been taken in by an untrustworthy woman, resulting in the deaths of those important to him. Circumstances have thrown them together. Can they learn to leave things in the Lord’s timing and learn to trust against all odds?
This ARC of Winds of Change #2 was received through Wakefield Press and CelebrateLit. The comments and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
The book was the long- awaited sequel to Sword of Forgiveness, set in the closing years of the 14th century. Honestly, I loved every minute of it. The romance was unsual and developed slowly, and the author wove historical and cultural details seamlessly into to the story. It is set during a turblulent time in English history when one King was deposed by his cousin, and some of these events provide the backdrop of the story. I confess, I actually helped the author with some of these details, and she used them well. Also, what I did appreciate is that the author avoided the bias which is common to books set in Medieval England and Scotland. She does not vilify either side, but shows the good and bad people on both sides, reflecting real life.
The title reflects, the theme. Both Royce and Deidre had been hurt terribly by people that they loved, and with trauma and trust. Both are realistiically flawed. Although Deirdre dresses as a boy and fights, she avoided being the cliche of a "warrior woman" actually had a realistic reason for her actions, and didn't eschew femininity altogether.
Honestly, I think this is one of the best historical novels I have read all year, and would hightly recommend it to anyone. Although it is the second in a series, it can be read as a standalone. I woudl also recommend the two novellas that accompany this series. The Perfect Bride and Sword of the Matchmaker which explore the lives of some of the secondary characters.
There comes a point when a man must stand up for what he knows is right regardless of whether it goes against his king.
Sword of Trust is the long-awaited second book in the Winds of Change series and it was worth the wait! Medieval is not my era of expertise but I was completely and utterly fascinated by the landscape, characters, and history displayed. It was an age of inconceivable brutality and Costello does not shrink back from that reality, yet with subtle words engaged this reader to the point that I was rather antsy when I had to put the book down.
The fighting…she’d heard the clang of swords not far from her. Why hadn’t she fled in the opposite direction? Why had she stolen back to see who warred against each other? Because in her optimism, she’d hoped someone had come to rescue her. That someone cared enough that she was missing to come find her. That someone was willing to fight for her.
I found much depth to Bryce and Deirdre and many others, loving them each for their unique qualities. Faith struggles are on prominent display as well, and hope brought about in a natural way that was quite encouraging. There is one character that stands out robustly in my mind and I sure hope he gets his story someday because what a story it would be. *whispers to the author “Michael, Michael” LOL
If you have not read book one, Sword of Forgiveness, I recommend doing so as I think it will add context and depth to this one. I highly recommend Sword of Trust! I received an ARC from the author and also purchased a personal copy. No compensation received.
An enthralling read, full of intrigue, romantic tension, action and twists. You cannot put this one down. Love the chivalry and history of medieval setting. Love the political tension. Great hero, amazing secondary characters and an unforgettable heroine. Phenomenal sequel to author’s breakout debut.
This exciting story is aptly titled, as it is definitely a tale that is all about trust. The main characters, Bryce and Deirdre, have trust issues because of things that have happened in their pasts. These events have helped to shape them into the people they are, but also tend to lead them to make decisions from a position of fear.
I thought that the chemistry between Bryce and Deirdre was very strong and realistically written. It was easy to see that there would be much distrust between the two for a long time and I liked that when they began to get to know each other better, they began to see things that they liked about each other. But a bit of distrust seemed to linger.
I read the first book in this series years earlier and as I began reading this novel, I tried to remember details about book one. I began remembering the plot of that story, Sword of Forgiveness, as the author mentioned some key points about it in this novel. It is nice to have read book one, however, I believe that Sword of Trust could be enjoyed on its own, as well.
Sword of Trust was a pleasure to read, full of action, adventure, faith, and romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I love, love, love this book! So worth the wait. I'm not doing a full review as it was a fun read but I do recommend "Sword of Truth" to Christian fiction lovers.
Many girls dream of knights in shining armor, and Lord Bryce Warwick would certainly seem to fit that description, unless....you're a Scottish lass named Deirdre, who dresses like a boy and has a deep hatred. for anything English. Deep hurts from the past have caused both of them to doubt the intentions of others, so is it any wonder that they are leery when they meet? Bryce values honesty and it's apparent that this 'boy' is hiding something!
Author Debbie Lynne Costello captured my interest immediately with this medieval tale set in 1399 during King Richard's reign, and she kept me enthralled until the very end. Sword of Trust is a thrilling, exciting adventure,with numerous twists and turns, and several secondary characters who add interest and intrigue. It is, however, the fascinating relationship between Deirdre and Bryce that is so captivating! I loved watching their personal relationship blossom, along with their deepening trust in God.
Sword of Trust is filled with the knights, castles, and rivalries that are synonymous with medieval times and I highly recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
A magnificent, enthralling story that was hard to put down. This medieval romance is filled with descriptive picturesque scenes, dialogue and events that had me in the moment with the characters. The dimensional characters came to life that added more originality to all they were enduring during good and difficult times. Deirdre is a strong heroine that had plenty of hardships but her fortitude gave way to more than she had anticipated. A great read and highly recommended if you like historical romance that places you in the place and time with characters that are realistic and lovable.
I received a complimentary e-book copy from the author and was under no obligation to write a review. I have shared my own thoughts.
Knights, chivalry, sword battles, and true love, that is the kind of story that can take me away on quite an adventure. I was delighted to read another medieval story from the pen of author Costello. This is the second in her Winds of Change series, which does well as a stand-alone, but why miss the adventure and romance of the first book?
Deirdre has lived a life pretending to be a boy on her Uncle's land since she was a young child. She was cared for by an old woman as she had been told how cruel her father is and her mother hid her away. She would give anything to be with her mother again, but she keeps up the ruse and almost kills herself as she helps her Scottish kin raid an English lord's land.
Bryce has had enough of the raiding. He is a fair man but the raiding must stop. Then he catches a young woman who is pretending to be a man. He has no idea who she is trying to fool, because he can see right through her charade.
Bryce and Deirdre, are enemies, one Scottish the other English, who have two different viewpoints and opinions of who is in the wrong and who is not. With traitors all around and an English king who only cares for himself, these two become unwilling partners on the same side. There is plenty of action, political intrigue, and a lot of secrets and family drama that come to light. There are plenty of trust issues these two must muddle through as well especially as you root for these two just to forgive and make up. If you want a good medieval tale, pick up this series.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Debbie Lynne Costello writes about medieval times in a way that makes them feel contemporary. This book is the second full length novel in this series with two novellas adding to the story. Here the author is fleshing out one of the supporting cast of the last book, Royce's brother Bryce. While each book can be read alone I think this one will make you want to go back and catch what has happened previously. One of the primary themes running in this story is that of trust. When you have been hurt or mistreated in the past it's very difficult to trust others. You may try hard to give the benefit of the doubt but there's always a part of yourself that you've learned not to share. Bryce and Deidre's stories both deal with trust issues. But far from being a somber tale, there are elements of unexpected humor here too that make it engaging. I really enjoyed this book. I received a copy of the ARC from the publisher and author but I was not under any obligation nor did I receive any compensation. It was my pleasure to give this review, as I do for most of the books I read.
Sword of Trust" by Debbie Lynne Costello is a wonderful book based on the countries of Scotland and England during a time of upheaval and shaky relations between the two countries. This book has lots of surprises within the pages and it is the second book in the series.
The characters are people with struggles and doubts just like readers, which in my opinion makes this book more enjoyable. While reading, I could feel the character's fear and at times, their anger. This book is truly a novel of learning to trust others and learning that everything the characters have been told is not always true.
I even liked the pet squirrel.
This novel would make another great movie that I would set down and watch with my husband, I know I am saying that about a lot of books lately, but only because it is true.
I have read the first book in the series awhile back and while I always say read the series in order, I believe this book would be enjoyable without reading the first book.
I received a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I’m thankful the author continued this series. Among the harsh reality of the feuding borderlands between Scotland and England in 1399, there are souls to cherish and save. No one is beyond redemption in God’s eyes.
The vein of trust runs through the book, snagging the characters, confronting them with the daring questions: Can I trust you? Can I trust God? Trust is a knot that secures people; whereas, the lack of trust imprisons them, turning their lives into internal battles. I’ve thought about the areas or times in my life when trust was a real problem. I do know I don’t want to remain tied to those flimsy relationships. Earning trust is greatly linked at times to forgiveness. A firm foundation of trust and forgiveness conquers many of life’s imminent hardships. Add a few feuding families, swords, castles, kings, and knights, then life takes an exciting turn almost daily.
Sword of Trust is the second installment from Debbie Lynne Costello’s Winds of Change series. I adored the first book, Sword of Forgiveness, and this one does not disappoint. Even it is part of a series, it can still be read as a stand alone. Though I would not want to miss out on either one. In this addition, I loved getting to know Deirdre and the chemistry between her and Bryce was perfect. I did not want to put the book down. There was a lot of action, adventure, twists, turns and sweet romance. I loved every single page.
I am giving Sword of Trust a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. I am hoping there will be another addition to the Winds of Change series in the future.
I received a paperback copy of Sword of Trust from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
This is my first Medieval period read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was drawn into the story right away. The characters are engaging and the storyline brings forth a wonderful combination of English and Scottish tradition. Some of the characters were uplifting and had a strong Christian faith, while others are lead by darkness.
I loved the charm of the time period and the vivid details of their surroundings. An unusual union between two people who had to learn a valuable lesson of trust and forgiveness before love could blossom.
Highly recommended. A charming and well-written story that will leave you on the edge of your seat. I couldn't put it down.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it. All opinions are my own.
Castles, knights, horses... Set in medieval times where loyalty and trust are highly valued, there are secrets and a plot of treason where it seems no one can be trusted. The characters were likeable and found a lot of reasons to search out truths. Loved it!
The book is a wonderful adventure where we find knights, kings and a look at a battle for freedom. I loved Deirdre right away. Her past has not been filled with love and I think she longed for that. She sure is independent and that gets her in a bit of trouble. The author does a great job of making readers feel like they are in the castle as there is much chaos going on preparing for the king to arrive.
Bryce is a great leader but does not trust many people. It could be because he has much to look after. Keeping Deirdre against her will at times can cause him to get frustrated. He knows she is hiding something but she will not tell him the truth. The word truth is something we all struggle with at times. We justify why we lie but God always has a way for truth to be revealed.
The book is an enjoyable journey as we witness struggles for land, peace and the truth that will set many free. Deirdre finds herself in danger when she does something that makes Bryce realize she has been withholding information. I liked how the author makes the story come alive with characters that are vividly described. Will trust be found? Can Bryce and Deirdre work together or become enemies? All these questions will be answered as you read this exciting medieval tale.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Sword of Trust by Debbie Lynne Costello is the long awaited Second book in the Winds of Change series. I had the pleasure of reading Book 1 in the series and have been anxiously waiting for Book 2. It is FINALLY here and I had the opportunity to read it.
The setting and time period is Scotland and England in the 1390's Medieval time period. Deirdre Mackenzie has always had a sour relationship with her father and she has never been fond of the English. She has grown up amongst boys and enjoys the life of a "lad". She seems to have a "hardened" heart. Well, all that changes when she is caught stealing and the kindness of the Lord Bryce Warwick just might soften her heart. Trouble arises when there is a threat of war at the border. Bryce Warwick brings someone to his castle, unaware it is Deirdre's father, the one she is hiding from. Will Deirdre stay hidden from her father? Will Bryce and Deirdre become close and begin a relationship?
WOW, just WOW! The twists and turns in this book really make it an exciting read. I am not one who normally enjoys Medieval Time Period, but Debbie Lynne Costello really writes in style that makes the time period and storyline EXCEEDINGLY interesting. I LOVE how the characters really click and their individual personalities are wonderful. I HIGHLY recommend this book for those who enjoy Christian Historical Romance Fiction!
Sword of Trust By Debbie Lynne Costello is a Christian Fiction Romance Medieval Story. I have read several books by this author and have always enjoyed everyone. This is part of the Winds of Change series. I have not read the other books in the series, but I did not have a problem following along. While the medieval time period is not my favorite to read, the author kept me engaged throughout the whole story. In this story we meet Deirdre Mackenzie. She has grown up not a fan of English people. Bryce Warwick has been hurt in the past. Both have trust issues from hurt and damage in the past. Bryce is very surprised when he finds out that the boy that his men caught is actually a woman in disguise. Deirdre is very fearful at first - and I really enjoyed how the author wrote their relationship. They got to know each other and walls started to come down. Trust is the overall theme of the book - and the author tied this medieval romance in with biblical truth seamlessly.
This book is full of adventures, knights, suspense, action and romance. Well written characters, and full of rich history. I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program - all thoughts are my own.
I love traveling back in time in books. This one takes you back to Medieval times. Sword of Trust is the second book in a series. While this is the second book in the series there are also two other books coming in between them that are fun reads too. I have read the rest of the series but really don’t think you absolutely have to read them in order.
This book focuses on a Lord and the boy his men caught. Well, umm, that boy was actually a girl and she has quite the family history. Anyway, it’s when Scotland and England are at war. Neither Lord Bryce nor Diedre are going to be trusting anyone or anything easily and from lack of communication they each unintentionally set out to hurt the other.
But once the damage is done can it be undone? Can they ever trust again? Will one or both of them have to die to fix this mess?
I recommend you read this book. It’s a fun one and reads quickly. Definitely, one I might read again as well.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through 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.
Forgiveness. I have not read the 1st book. I was able to read this as a standalone but felt that I did miss some in-depth context from not reading the first one.
I have to admit that I love the medieval era but, I don’t read many books in that genre as they get a bit weird. I felt that the author did an amazing job depicting the era as it was in a way that was tasteful and yet gave you the reality of the era. Just as you would expect you have knights, kings, Lords, hardships, and battles.
Debbie Lynne Costello is a new author for me and I really enjoyed her style of writing. The plot is interesting. The description of the era and places was enjoyable.
The characters have a lot of depth to them. The thread that weaves its way through the story is “trust”. Both characters have had some horrible things happen to them. I was captivated by Deirdre Mackenzie and Bryce Warwick.
A very good story and I’m getting ready to order the first book in the series.
Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.
What I think you should know: Sword of Trust by Debbie Lynn Costello is a historical fiction set in 1399 on the English Scottish border. It is the second book in the Winds of Change series, however it can be read as a standalone novel.
What I think about this book: If you love Medieval fiction look no further! This is a delightful story with robbers, hidden identities and treason. Costello has a gift for transporting the reader into the story, using a mix of modern English and period appropriate terminology. Deirdre is such a fascinating character, Although she was born a Lady she was raised alongside the boys of her village. Proficient with a bow and a knife she feels a responsibility for helping the people of her village. I loved her spunk and determination. Bryce is struggling with the betrayals of his past and trying to be a good leader. I loved every page of this story and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
This involved medieval tale offers intrigue and danger, excitement, and surprises. Will the secrets and deceit from the past ruin the future of the main characters? Deirdre Mackenzie grew up estranged from her family and in fear of her father. She has disguised herself as a lad for much of her life and isn’t above breaking the law to help her poor Scottish friends. How will she fare in the custody of the English laird she doesn’t trust or respect? Bryce Warwick tries to treat his servants and those he meets kindly, but Deidre challenges him in ways he never imagined. The twists and intensities of their story make a powerful drama unfold on the page. The characters seem realistic, and they must learn lessons and grow through their tough and sometimes tragic experiences. This book can definitely stand alone, but the story does continue from the first book in the series. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. all opinions are my own.
This was such enthralling book. I absolutely connected with this book. I felt like I was right there in the woods, in the castle, in the village. This book does that to you. Ms. Costello has a definite talent for bringing the reader right into the center of her story. You become a part of it. The story is so well written and the events come together so perfectly. The author has a wonderful command of medieval history and terminology. This was a well written book which keep you guessing as to what happens next. I highly recommend this excellent book.
Complete with all the medieval details, charm and wonderfully strong characters, this book has it all. Secrets, betrayal, forgiveness and trust… It’s a book you want to read to the end, but yet, never want it to end!
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
Bravo Ms. Costello! This is a really good read, kept me wanting to not stop. Even though life gets in the way and one must stop reading at times, my mind was never far from this tale. I absolutely adore these characters and the strength they behold. I was totally captivated by Bryce Warwick, the way he ran his estate and the way he treated his people was wonderful. And in comes Deirdre, strong and brave beyond measure. They truly compliment one another. If you're looking for some clean, fun adventure featuring knights, castles and romance, look no further. I highly recommend this 2nd book in the Winds of Change series. And one more thing, that last line was perfect!
I was given a copy of this book by the author and I was under no obligation to give a positive review. My opinions are my own.
My heart raced in rhythm to the horse's hooves as they dashed in and out of danger. Debbie held me captive 'til the very end of this medieval novel where mistrust abides with every clang of a sword.
Deirdre & Bryce would have avoided so much heartache if they hadn't been so skeptical of each other from the beginning but both had a valid reason for looking upon the other as the enemy creating a bigger battle that encircled both British and Scottish soil. They relied on their abilities that only dug up deeper holes. How often we find ourselves in messy situations for not trusting in the One and Only Almighty? A lesson Deirdre & Bryce learn almost too late at the cost of lives and nearly losing their own. If you love medieval novels you won't want to miss this!!
I enjoyed this medieval tale of Deirdre who dressed as a lad and was caught taking cattle across the border from England to Scotland and held at Rosen Craig. Deirdre turns out to be a feisty, beautiful lass who everyone likes but she is determined to escape. I am fascinated by life on the borders of England and Scotland. I admired how Lord Bryce cared for his people. Deirdre has secrets she shares with no one. If you enjoy reading about that time period, you will enjoy the well-written Sword of Trust by Debbie Lynne Costello. This is the second book in the Winds of Change series but can be read as a stand alone book. I received an advance e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.
Oh this was such a great book to read. I love medieval times and books set there that are written well are some of my favorites. The author did a great job with this one. I loved the characters that were really well fleshed out and developed.
I was just drawn in to the story and didn't want to put it down at all. There were some suspenseful moments and it was just an overall good story. I can relate to trust issues and this book shows some doozies and how they can be overcome. Yep, I'm keeping this one and looking for more from this author.
5/5.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Reading through the pages of this book, the scenes were taking shape in my head like a movie.
The author writes well and I am so glad I am on the blog tour for this book.
The suspense, the intrigue, the action, the words and even the style of writing were just too perfect!
You can’t help falling in love with Lord Bryce. The characters in this book are likeable.
I love historical fiction and this book has the perfect balance of fiction and Christian themes.
I highly recommend this book for fans of historical fiction especially the middle ages. You will go back in time to history of knights, Lords and a damsel in distress.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are mine.
Sword of Trust is the second book in the Winds of Change series. This book explores learning to trust. Sometimes, those closest to a person destroy the ability to trust. Outside forces and circumstances often manipulate things to where people have to learn to trust in order to find love. This book sets the stage for such an event for Deidre and Bryce. Deidre’s father adds drama to the story, along with other events of the time.
Set in Medieval times, the book examines the violence and turbulence of the time. Yet the author masterfully tells the story in a way that kept me interested. So if you enjoy Medieval stories, check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.