Spanning more than two centuries in Ireland, Castle on the Rise unites the legacy of three women who must risk mending their broken places for life, love, and the belief that even through the depths of our pain, a masterpiece of a story can emerge. When Laine Forrester travels overseas to attend her best friend’s vineyard wedding, she expects to find the bride on the brink of a fairy-tale life. … fairy-tale life. But after a series of unforeseen setbacks, it seems the storybook lives they’d imagined are suddenly ripping apart.
With hopes of resurrecting a happy ending, Laine agrees to accompany the newlyweds to the groom’s home in Ireland–never expecting she’d be the one drawn in by its wide-open moors, backroads bordering the Irish Sea, and a mysterious castle that dares to keep its secrets hidden.
From the storied streets of Dublin to the shores of the Emerald Isle, Laine is drawn in to the land and its rich history. The castle ruins whisper stories of Issy–a photojournalist battling through the 1916 Easter Rising, and Maeve–the castle’s lady of legend, fighting for survival through the 1798 rebellion that started it all.
Praise for Castle on the Rise:
“Enchanting and mesmerizing!” –PATTI CALLAHAN, New York Times bestselling author of Becoming Mrs. Lewis
“Castle on the Rise perfectly showcases rising star Kristy Cambron’s amazing talent! Perfect pacing, lovely prose, and an intricate plot blend together in a delightful novel I couldn’t put down. Highly recommended!” –Colleen Coble, USA TODAY bestselling author of Secrets at Cedar Cabin and the Rock Harbor series
“Cambron’s latest is one of her best. Gripping and epic, this intricately woven tale of three generations seeking truth and justice will stay with you long after the last page.” –Rachel Hauck, New York Times bestselling author
- Second in the Lost Castle series (The Lost Castle, Castle on the Rise, The Painted Castle)
- Can be read as a stand-alone, but best if read in order
- Sweet romance set in three time periods: present day, World War I/Easter Rising, and late 1700s
- Full-length novel (over 110,000 words)
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This second installment in Kristy Cambron’s Lost Castle series was stellar. I read it in two days. Her research is impeccable, which enables her to write true-to-life characters set against a lush background and exacting history.
There are books to be devoured and there are books to be savored. Like a deliciously rich dessert, this is a book to savor, reader friends. I often found myself lingering over the pages, contemplating the different time periods, and adoring the characters—modern-day Laine, 1916 Issy, and 1798 Maeve. I completely enjoyed each interlaced plot, every high and low, each historical fact and fictional embellishment. Although this book is part of a wonderful series it is also written to stand on its own. I highly recommend this series and eagerly anticipate the third installment!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
With a delicate, authentic writing hand, fine attention to detail and historical precision, enough creative license to keep the plot moving, and wonderful characters that I didn’t want to say goodbye to, Castle on the Rise has made a fan out of me.
Kristy Cambron has a gift. She writes stories that are SO beautiful and poignant they stick with readers LONG after the final pages have been read. I have loved every Cambron book that I’ve gotten my hands on, and I always look forward to reading her newest release. Castle on the Rise is a wonderful story. I was captivated from page one, had a seriously hard time putting the book down, and sobbed my eyes out in several places. This book wrecked my heart, yet left me feeling so hopeful. Castle on the Rise is another excellent example of Cambron’s brilliant, God-given storytelling talent.
Castle on the Rise is a story told in three unique parts. There is Laine’s story set in present-day Dublin, Issy’s war-torn story set in Dublin during the harrowing Easter Rising of 1916, and Maeve’s heartbreaking story set during the 1798 Irish rebellion. All three stories are expertly crafted, and I was captivated by all three, but Maeve and Eoin’s story is my favorite. I very much enjoyed how their relationship grew over time. At first there is distrust because they are from opposite sides of the rebellion, but then there is partnership as Eoin helps Maeve run her home and helps take care of the people who live on her land. This then turns into romance. I felt the relationship grew very realistically, born out of hard work, a gaining of trust, mutual respect, and true sacrificial love. Maeve and Eoin’s story wrecked my heart though, so much so I’m still emotional 24 hours after finishing the book. Maeve and Eoin’s story is beautiful and devastating, but a story that will stick with me for a long, long time.
Castle on the Rise is filled with seriously brave and courageous characters. Cambron’s characters are men and women who stand against oppression and evil with very little thought to their own person. They are men and women who are willing to put their lives on the line to fight for what is right. These characters do what they have to, when they have to, believing with their whole heart that they are honoring God’s will through their actions. While reading, I couldn’t help but ask the question, “What does it mean to be brave in 2019 America?” In 1798 and 1916, the Irish were fighting a very clear and present evil. The British were a very arrogant and cruel master. Wanting to break the bonds of slavery to a master who didn’t even live in their country makes sense. That’s a fight to fight valiantly. But in 2019 America, what are we valiantly fighting for or against?
So I put the question to my husband. He believes those who profess Christ as their Lord and Savior, and then live their lives as God commands, are the bravest people in America today. I agree with my husband completely. Christians who actually have a relationship with God, who study their Bible, and then live God’s Word as best as humanly possible are the bravest Americans today. Those who stand up against bad theology, secular activities being brought into the church, and refuse to stand with those who want to cut Israel out are those choosing to honor God’s will through their actions. One of the coolest things you learn about God when you really get into Bible study is that you don’t have to actually be a brave person to be brave. I would not consider myself a brave person, but that’s OK. The Holy Spirit lives inside of me, and He is brave for me. He opens my mouth when it’s God’s time for me to share my faith in Him with others. The Holy Spirit soothes the hurt when I get ridiculed or yelled at for my faith, especially when it’s friends or family who are doing the mocking and yelling. And, the Holy Spirit helps me continue to spread the Gospel even though sometimes the cruelty of this world makes me want to give up. I may never be a Maeve or Eoin, or an Issy or Sean, or a Laine or Cormac — the brave characters from Castle on the Rise — but I don’t have to be. I just have to continue to follow God’s path for me, and in 2019 America, that’s exceedingly brave!
Castle on the Rise is a stunning journey. I am different now, for the better, for having read this beautiful story. The setting is amazing — I truly felt like I was in Ireland the whole time I was reading this book. It was a fantastic vacation! I really love the characters and found them to be so brave, yet realistic at the same time. And the history — I learned so much about Ireland and its battle for independence. This story forced me to take pauses so I could Google search historical figures to learn more about them. I love when a book makes me want to research more! Castle on the Rise is an absolute gem that I highly recommend.
I received a review copy of this novel in paperback (ARC) form from the author via Celebrate Lit. I also purchased this book in eBook form from Amazon on February 15, 2019 to read and review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
“Live every moment. That’s what you said to me when I walked down the aisle, remember? I gift it back to you. Fix every second of this night in your heart. Protect it, and visit it often.”
Another stunning and absolutely captivating time-split novel by Kristy Cambron! I am not a novice to the author’s writing, yet am still astounded every time I read her books. This story takes place mostly in Ireland – in 1797 during an uprising against the English, in 1915 as Ireland struggles for freedom, and during present day. The past time periods are thoroughly researched and the writing and vernacular in speech also shift with the time periods to make the writing believable and extremely enjoyable. The three subplots in different time periods are intricately intertwined with details that hold the story cohesively together and bring enlightenment at the end of the novel. The writing is beautiful, the themes of bravery, inherent desire for freedom (even in rebellion), sacrifice, and love are so tender and heart-wrenching, and the characters – oh, the characters – are utterly unforgettable. This incredible story of Ireland’s past, present, and future all tucked away in one castle ruin, a manor, and three true loves is a story that is a must read for all historical romance fans! And if anyone wanted to make a movie of this book, I’ll be first in line to pre-order those tickets.
As for those characters…. Eoin, Sean, and Cormac all have such deep love for their country and those they call friends and family. They are loyal, honest, hard-working, loving, tender, and faithful till the end. Maeve, Issy, and Laine are strong women – strong in their opinions and actions, faithful and loyal in their love. I rarely connect with so many characters in one book, but I loved getting to know all six of these characters through their suffering, heartbreak, and triumph.
This book is second book in the Lost Castle series but can be read as a stand alone. I did not read the first book but was immersed in this storyline from page 1 and didn’t feel that I missed anything by not reading the backstory on Ellie (Laine’s best friend) and Quinn (Cormac’s brother) first in the previous book.
I was given a copy of the book by Thomas Nelson via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Castle on the Rise (A Lost Castle Novel, Book 2), by Kristy Cambron, is a captivating book from the first page to the last. Events in present day Ireland compliment events from one hundred and two hundred years ago to create a tri-timeline story that is simply riveting. Elements of mystery, history, and romance are thoughtfully intertwined in this well-researched novel. With excellent pacing and vibrant descriptions, important details are carefully revealed and hidden truths are uncovered as the story reaches its dramatic and satisfying conclusion.
In the face of dangerous circumstances and daunting secrets, the characters in this novel possess an inner strength and determination that is profoundly inspiring. As they struggle with fear, loss, threats, and uncertainty, the characters manage to cling to hope and to strive for purpose. As it both conceals and reveals its mysteries, the Irish castle setting itself also becomes an important character that adds to the strength, charm, and intrigue of the story. Furthermore, in the dim light of trials and broken dreams, profound themes of perseverance, justice, courage, sacrifice, and love shine brightly as beacons of hope and encouragement.
Castle on the Rise is an incredibly fascinating and moving novel. The intermingling timelines are truly compelling, and the enduring themes are intensely satisfying. It is certainly an emotionally-stirring and thought-provoking book. This novel is well-written, engaging, and memorable. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*I received a copy of this novel through Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Can I take a tour of castles all over the world please? Unfortunately my pocket book won’t allow that but I can at least Journey to Ireland in the pages of this book. The castle isn’t as focal in this book as the first but then setting descriptions are just as beautiful. Because of the three time periods, this book is best binge-read, in my opinion. Otherwise it can take a little while to get swept away in the stories. Looking forward to book three and curious to see where it will take us.
What a beautiful, splendid walk through Ireland and the legacies of our lives. An unforgettable book!
Castle on the Rise by Kristy Cambron is the second book in the series A Lost Castle. This book is well researched historical fiction heavy on Irish history but pleasantly romantic also. Her book tells the stories in three time periods, of three families and their lives in joy and in sorrow. Excellent characters and enjoyed learning about the conflicts between the Irish and British. Looking forward to her next book in this series The Painted Castle. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. My thanks to the author, the publisher and netgalley for making this book available for me to read, enjoy and review.
What a beautiful novel!
Kristy Cambron writes about lush settings, heart-tugging characters, and page-turning plots.
It was another great novel in the Lost Castle series, Castle on the Rise, which was filled with heart-stopping moments, newly discovered romance, and one gorgeous setting. All spanning three different storylines.
Make sure to read all of her novels, they are absolutely wonderful!!
I received this book from the author but was under no obligation to post nor write a review.
Freedom’s call is clearly heard within the pages of this captivating novel. I was immediately immersed in the lush Irish countryside. I so admired those who rose up against oppression and fought for what was right in the midst of overwhelming opposition. May we never stay silent when freedom is threatened.
Recommend to readers who enjoy captivating time-slip novels.
I won a copy. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
Have enjoyed the series but find keeping g up with three story lines set in three different times very confusing and hard to follow.
I really enjoyed this book. At first going back and forth in different time periods was a little hard but the author really developed the characters well.
Loved it! Masterfully written novel with three different storylines, all different time periods. Each story very compelling and satisfying plus important life lessons shine through in the characters’ lives. Also loved the vivid images author Kristy Cambron painted throughout. Highly recommend!
(I’ve had trouble before with three storylines and have had to look back for reminders of characters, etc. This time I wrote a cast of characters for each story as I went and it helped me so much. You might want to do it too!)
Cambron weaves together three stories throughout the history of Ireland. Each moving story is full of historical and cultural details leading to both a painful and beautiful look at the country’s history. The romances help demonstrate the meaning of love in action. It is evident that the author has done her research and that she has a place in her heart for Ireland. I won a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Once again, Kristy Cambron, with “Castle on the Rise”, has demonstrated why she is one of my top authors. I love reading her books not only for the plot but the research that goes into all her work. I fell in love with the characters, grieved with them, and wanted to meet them! I need to take a trip to Ireland soon. I am looking forward to reading the third book in the series. I am sure it will be just as wonderful as the first two.
Castle on the Rise started off slow for me, as I acclimated myself to a country (Ireland) and a culture I’ve not had the pleasure of visiting before. Because the book is divided into three different time periods it time for me to figure out which characters and which time period that particular chapter had sent me to. That is the ultimate charm of the book though! As I became familiar with the different story threads taking place each chapter would leave me hanging and dash me off to another time and another thread of the past. I found my heart beating in anxious anticipation of what was to come and frantically trying to read through a chapter to find out what happened. By the end of the book I was overcome by love and heartbreak experienced by the characters as Ireland went through such violence in it’s struggle for freedom. This book is heartwarming and heartbreaking in all the right ways. I found myself googling Ireland’s freedom struggle and the historical characters mentioned in the book. Historical fiction teaches you and, if done right, launches you into your own search about the time or place being discussed. This book did that for me. Well done!
After reading some of the negative reviews I had moved this down on my TBR pile and now I regret that I didn’t read it sooner, as I throughly enjoyed it. I was totally engrossed in the weaving of three time periods in Ireland to see the beautiful tapestry it created in the end. The descriptions of the castle drew me in and the uprising for freedom was so heart wrenching. The bravery that was shown and standing for your beliefs even when it meant going against parents was inspiring. The present day story deals with divorce and the aftermath when trying to keep it a secret. I look forward to reading the third book in this series. Kristy Cambron is outstanding in Split Time novels as she makes the story flow easily.
I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction Guild. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
“Ashford Manor was a time capsule hidden in the Irish countryside”. . . . . .”a castle overlooking a span of cliffs and exploding surf below”. It was a castle on the rise.
When a reclusive pub frequenter bequeaths her entire castle estate to a family broken apart by grief and misunderstanding, a father and his sons tiptoe around the questions that none of them want to ask or even answer. It takes a lovely wedding and its guests to begin the quest, spanning multiple generations of families torn apart by the atrocities of war, yet bonded forever by their hopes for the future. “One day Ireland would be free”. . . . and “some people don’ leave”.
Sink into the depths of Ireland’s rich history, lovingly cultivated with the blood, sweat and tears of those gone before; as love, courage and faithfulness win battles over the heart and heartland. Only a talented author could paint such a picture!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Kristy Cameron weaves three time periods (1798, 1916 and the present) in the telling of part of Ireland’s fight for freedom. Highly recommended!