Set in three time periods–the rapid change of Victorian England, the peak of England’s home-front tensions at the end of WWII, and modern day–The Painted Castle unlocks secrets lost for generations just waiting to be found. A lost painting of Queen Victoria. A library bricked off from the world. And three women, separated by time, whose lives are irrevocably changed. In Victorian England, … Victorian England, talented sketch artist Elizabeth Meade is engaged to Viscount Huxley, owner of Parham Hill. However, Elizabeth’s real motive for being at Parham Hill has nothing to do with art or marriage. She’s determined to avenge her father’s brutal murder–even if it means a betrothal to the very man she believes committed the crime.
A century later, Amelia Woods–a World War II widow who has turned Parham Hill and its beloved library into a boarding school for refugee children–receives military orders to house a troop of American pilots. She is determined the children in her care will remain untouched by the war, but the task is proving difficult with officers taking up every square inch of their world . . . and one in particular vying for a space in Amelia’s long-shut up heart.
When art historian Keira Foley is hired to authenticate a painting, she hopes this is just the thing to get her career and life back on track. But from the time she arrives at Parham Hill Estate and begins working alongside rumored art thief Emory Scott, she’s left with far more questions than answers. Could this lost painting of Queen Victoria be a duplicate of the original Winterhalter masterpiece, and if so, who is the artist?
Praise for The Painted Castle:
“A gripping tale of secrets hidden behind the walls of an ancient English castle.” –KATE BRESLIN, bestselling author of Far Side of the Sea
- A Sweet Historical Split-time Romance
- The third and final book in the Lost Castle series
- Books do not have to be read in order
- Full-length novel with three woman each finding her own happily ever after
more
Author Kristy Cambron has written another page turner! I thoroughly enjoyed this gripping tale of three uniquely troubled women from different centuries, yet linked by secrets hidden behind the walls of an ancient English castle. The author uses her trademark skill to peel away the mystery surrounding East Suffolk’s Parham Hill Estate, and the answer to each woman’s heart, one tantalizing layer at a time.
The Painted Castle is a story compelling and beautifully written, and will appeal to a broad range of historical fiction fans.
A Painted Castle by Kristy Cambron is one of the best books I’ve ever read. Cambron is the queen of time-slip storytelling. A Painted Castle tells the story of three very unique, very strong, and very capable women from three very different time periods: 1843, 1944, and present-day. Each story is expertly crafted, so much so they could be excellent standalone stories, but in Cambron’s hands, these three stories weave into one poignant and gripping tale that has definitely left its mark on this reader’s heart. I loved every single second of this novel. I smiled, I sobbed, I cheered. I cried out in frustration and I had my heart shattered. This book ran me through the gamut of emotions! OH! And, the romance!!! Superbly written. Not one relationship felt forced or fake or trite. A Painted Castle is truly an exquisite read.
A predominant theme that runs through each storyline is the power of redemption — how no one is ever too far gone to be redeemed and made new. Elizabeth, Amelia, and Keira all go through points in their respective stories where they feel like they can’t overcome. They do all eventually realize the truth, redemption is capable for everyone who goes to Jesus Christ — but what struck me about their redemption stories is that redemption does not happen until each woman STOPS and LISTENS. Knee-jerk, emotional reactions seem to be par for humanity. It is in these highly charged moments where we make the BIG mistakes and we often say the worst things. It is only after we have removed ourselves from the situation that we realize what we said or did, and can see our part in the situation for what it really was. At this moment, we are ready to listen — to the other person in our story, to our hearts, and to God. We can see where apologies need to be made and forgiveness given or received. When we pause and take stock, when we respect the others in our stories enough to really listen to them and be heard by them, we are at a place where we can separate the wheat from the chaff so to speak and get to a real place of redemption. I love this lesson so much, and I pray that the next time I’m in a situation that has made me a little hotheaded I remember to STOP and LISTEN.
A Painted Castle is a brilliant story that I could continue to gush over for days and days. The words in this review just are not good enough to convey how amazing this novel truly is. Suffice to say, it’s superb, it’s masterful, and it’s heartbreaking. A Painted Castle is a novel I will not soon forget. I implore you to purchase a copy for yourself today. You will not be disappointed that you did!
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
A mysterious painting, a hidden history, and three lives entwined in an English manor. This story had everything you expect from a Kristy Cambron novel. Romance, mystery, and stories that span the ages. Beautifully written with endearing characters!
Sometimes with timeslip novels, I find one storyline more interesting than another, which makes for sort of uneven reading experience. Not so with The Painted Castle! Each of the three different stories (set in Victorian, World War 2, and Present Day eras) kept me enthralled from page one to the end. How does Kristy do this? All three settings, plots, and sets of characters were so richly drawn, I felt like I was getting three novels in one, all connected to each other. And the writing itself arrested me throughout. This author is an artist, from the broad strokes of story theme to the detail work of choosing pitch-perfect words. All three well-paced stories in this novel combine into a gorgeous portrait of hope and light. Spiritual insights are there, but not heavy-handed. This series conclusion is a captivating, joy to read. (It does work as a stand-alone, too, but why not read all three?) I’m thoroughly impressed with Kristy Cambron’s skill and heart.
Book Review–The Painted Castle by Kristy Cambron
Book #3 of the Lost Castle series
I must say that this book was interesting because of its historical aspect and realistic romantic characters.
The story though intriguing with a mixture of romance and mystery kept my interest enough to keep me reading, yet being as I had not read the previous two books in this series, nor had ever read a time-slip novel before, I have to admit I was quite confused in the beginning.
There are three different time periods and three main female characters portrayed in this novel, modern day is Keira in Dublin, Ireland–mid-1940s World War II is Amelia at Parham Hill Estate in Framlingham,England, and mid-1840s is Elizabeth at Parham Hill Estate in Framlingham, England.
The main focal point is an intimate portrait that was painted of Queen Victoria in the 1800’s.
After I sorted out times and places and got used to the chapter transitions I really enjoyed reading each character’s story and how they all ended up fitting together in the end.
If you enjoy historical time-slip novels that are filled with mystery, suspense, romance then you will surely enjoy this book but you will most likely will want to begin with Book 1 in the series to help you set the stage more fully.
I received this book for free from Celebrate Lit in exchange for an honest review. This does not in anyway influence my opinion of the book or the content of my review, all comments are my own.
–Leona J. Atkinson
The Painted Castle (A Lost Castle Novel, Book 3), by Kristy Cambron, is a thoroughly compelling book from beginning to end. Exceptionally well-written, this novel connects intriguing events from the present with powerful events of the past to create a triple-timeline story that is very captivating. Ms. Cambron’s gift for storytelling is phenomenal. Excellent pacing and beautiful descriptions ensure this novel is a pleasure to read. With plenty of mystery, history, and romance, this book is certainly difficult to put down!
A significant setting, remarkable characters, and relevant themes, elevate and enhance this novel. The British castle setting plays a pivotal role in all three timelines, and becomes more than a mere location. It harbors truths waiting to be uncovered, adding to the romance, allure, and mystery of the story.
Though they must grapple with daunting secrets, peril, and uncertainty, the characters in this novel display a strength and determination that is profoundly inspiring. As they cope with loss, fear, and wariness, the characters manage to endure and hold fast to their purpose. Furthermore, in the midst of danger and heartache, fundamental themes of perseverance, justice, courage, sacrifice, and love offer encouragement and hope.
The Painted Castle is an utterly meaningful and moving novel. The interwoven timelines are wholly fascinating and truly memorable. This novel is engaging, inspiring, and extremely satisfying. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*I received a copy of this novel through the publisher and CelebrateLit. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
“I’m sort of living here. Thought it was for the time being, but this place grows on you after a while, doesn’t it? All of a sudden you look up and you’re standing in a place that starts to whisper, ‘You’re home.’ And what’s funny is, you believe it without question.”
What a fantastic conclusion to the Lost Castle series! Kristy Cambron truly has a gift for storytelling and she has woven yet another well-crafted time slip novel that will pull you in from the first page. Balancing three time lines, three subplots, and three sets of main characters is tough and yet the author does it flawlessly and then brings all of them together at the end. Each time period has a fully developed plot and beautifully sketched characters who will pull at your heartstrings. Reading The Painted Castle is like going on a thrilling scavenger hunt to discover the treasure and story within objects from the past.
The Victorian world of 1843 is fascinating in its shrouded mystery as Elizabeth vows to avenge her father’s death and we learn of the origins of the Queen Victoria portrait that the book centers around. 1944 brings a world of heartache as WWII rages on in England and yet Amelia discovers hope as she tends Perham Manor and the home’s own story comes forth. Present day finds Keira, the youngest of the Foleys, unearthing joy, pain, love, and second chances in Perham Manor’s history and hidden treasures. If you have followed the series, you will appreciate the Foley brothers’ role in the book but it can definitely be read as a stand alone.
If you enjoy delightful time slip novels full of history, romance, charm and redemption, you must read this book! I received a copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
What an imaginative adventure through three historical times, each adding a layer of mystery and clues to answer questions about an impressive painting of Queen Victoria. I’ve read the first two Lost Castle novels by Kristy Cambron and loved them. This one is as mysterious and entertaining.
As a reader, I try to figure out the strings attaching the different periods, but Cambron does such an excellent job of adding a few bits at a time, that I find I don’t want to put the book down. Even if I didn’t know the reputation the author has for historic detail, I would pick up the book because of the word “castle.” Yes, I’m that enamored with anything to do with castles—famous ones, ruins, forgotten, various countries. The history draws me to them and the people who lived there.
The author is able to sustain romance, art, history, family drama, and “odd” personalities in order to complete a riveting novel. I don’t know if there is a book four, oh but I hope so.
The Painted Castle by Kristy Cambron is the third A Lost Castle Novel. I was not aware of this when I picked up the book. It did not hinder my enjoyment of the story until I reached the epilogue which made references the earlier books. I thought the story contained good writing with thoughtful pacing. The Painted Castle moves back-and-forth between three time periods which are 1843, 1944 and present day. The characters are developed and suit each era. My favorite was Amelia Woods, a widow, who is running the estate and caring for children who need a safe haven during the war. Then a group of fly boys descend on the estate led by Captain Wyatt Stevens. I liked the inclusion of the story about the creators of Curious George. Kiera Foley has an impressive resume and is hired to authenticate a painting discovered in Parham Hall Estate. She is distrustful of Emory Scott, but the painting draws her in along with a charming beekeeper’s cottage that needs restoration. Elizabeth Meade saw her father murdered and she sketched a man who witnessed the event. She grows up determined to get justice for her father while raised under her mother’s domineering thumb. Eleanor Meade needs Elizabeth to marry well and Viscount Huxley who owns Parham Hall Estate is her choice. As Kiera researches the painting secrets of the past are revealed. The Painted Castle is an intriguing story, but it is hard to get engrossed in the story with all the back-and-forth. I wish there had been a better flow to this multi-faceted story. I enjoyed Kristy Cambron’s descriptive writing which brought the scenes alive for me. The romance is plagued with miscommunication and misunderstandings (our poor couples). The Painted Castle is a dramatic and intriguing tale with stolen artwork, protective brothers, a hidden library, a famed artist, a discovered painting, and a regal queen.
I fell into this book, and I didn’t want to leave! I loved every moment I spent in the pages of this captivating book! Resplendent with vivid imagery, witty dialogue, and dynamic characters all brought this story to life in my imagination. I equally enjoyed all three of the story-lines and thought that Kristy Cambron tied them together quite brilliantly!
These characters pulled me in and invited me along the journey. I felt every heart-pounding moment right along with them. The mystery, the tender romance, and even the heart-breaking moments that had me reaching for the tissue box. A Christmas dance in stocking feet to the sound of a crackling fire, and many other tender moments that had me holding my breath in anticipation of what would be said next. Intense, and searing the story held me in its grip.
Each of the three time-lines equally captivated my imagination and griped my heart in unexpected ways. Each left indelible marks on my heart that shall stay with me long into the future. I give this book 5-enthusiastic stars and encourage you to enjoy this story yourself at your earliest convenience!
(I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Prepare for excessive gushing because I absolutely loved The Painted Castle by Kristy Cambron. First of all, I was amazed, impressed, entranced and every other fabulous adjective you can think of at the three-yes, three!- storylines. (One was contemporary, another was set during WWII, and the last was Victorian.) I thought for sure I would have difficulty following along, but no! All three settings were unique with each character engaging in their own way. And the story as a whole just flowed so seamlessly. I found myself intrigued and wondering how it all would unfold. The layered depth in this story is a credit to Ms. Cambron’s masterful storytelling skills. So entertaining, yet moving. I sighed. Gasped. Got teary-eyed. From chapter one to the powerful ‘The End’ there was All. The. Emotions.
And the way the author tied all three plots together was fascinating. Can you tell I love this story? Novels like this makes my little reading heart so happy. I can’t recommend The Painted Castle enough. And I will definitely be on the lookout for more from this talented author.
*I received a copy through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
The Painted Castle (A Lost Castle Novel Book 3) by Kristy Cambron is Split Time Christian Historical Mystery Fiction. The Split Times are in 1843,1944 and present day in an English Castle. Secrets, a mysterious death, an unusual book, art work linked to a queen and a famous artist. The characters experience the reality of life with trials but God is always present changing and fulfilling their lives. Interesting actual historical details of each time period are woven into the story. This book is a part of a series that may be enjoyed alone or read in order. The similarities in the books are Split Time, Historical, Castles and Mysteries. The differences are in the time periods, characters, places and stories. I have thoroughly enjoyed each book by Kristy Cambron because of various historical subjects, the storylines and her writing style.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book.
Overall I’ve really enjoyed this series. The times one story is set in was a challenging time in history so I was slow to start since there’s so much animosity and uncertaintity currently but the writing & story pulls me in & I’m hooked. The author does great in connecting the stories together. Strong characters in all the stories I genuienly can root for. I enjoyed the bit of mystery. In each book of the series I’ve had questions about some of the stories that are left unanswered for a time. However, Kristy Cambron wraps up loose ends, questions and ties the stories together very well. I had all the emotions listening to this through audiobook! The narraraor does fabulous.
The Painted Castle is a captivating conclusion to the series. I’ve enjoyed traveling the European countryside with the Foley family. The whisper of Father’s love is softly heard throughout the journey. Three time periods show us how our intricately our lives are intertwined. I love this trilogy!
Recommend to readers who enjoy inspirational split-time novels.
I purchased a copy. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
This third book in the “lost castle” series has been my favorite. I love the triple timeline story that weaves itself into a beautiful portrait of love, loss, trust, pain, and healing. The author has such a gift of drawing the reader into the pages and making you care about the characters.
I am going to miss the people I’ve met as I explored various periods in history through this series. The characters were well developed and the depth of emotions the reader is exposed to makes these books a must read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
I loved the 3 time periods and how they all weave together! I did take some more brain power to switch from story to story… but it was definitely worth it!!! The weaving between stories and time periods are masterfully done as the tell a tale of a castle (different in each book) and it’s history with romance and adventure along the way!
It made me really long to go visit castles and unlock their stories. It really makes you wonder about what stories lie in your family past and how it all weaves together!
I’ve been a huge fan of Kristy Cambron ever since I first read The Lost Castle a couple years ago. Imagine my delight when I realized that she saved the best in the series for last!
The Painted Castle has three timelines that could’ve all had standalone novels. Each story is woven around a mysterious painting of Queen Victoria, and the mystery unfolds throughout Victorian England, WWII and present day. As far as time periods go, it doesn’t get much better than that!
You do not need to have read the first two books in the series before diving into this one, but it certainly helps you understand some of the background behind the present day heroine, Keira.
Highly recommended to all lovers of historical and contemporary fiction alike. It’s also a well deserved Christy Award winner. The Painted Castle is a book I’ll be rereading multiple times I’m sure.
The third installment of this trilogy is every bit as lovely as the first two books.
What a fantastic conclusion to Kristy’s Lost Castle series!! I adore England so give me a manor house and cottage and dashing WWII soldiers and Queen Victoria and a female artist…need I say more!
I’ve heard a lot of good things about this book so I decided to pick it up. After I did, I realized it was a time slip/dual timeline book — I wasn’t sure if I should keep reading it because I haven’t had good luck with time slip novels in the past and I wasn’t sure if it was just the books or the genre.
I’m pretty sure it’s the genre.
The book actually had three timelines, which made it hard for me to engage with the characters and their stories. Because there were three stories, I had to wait two chapters before I could get back to a plot, and that was just too much time for me to wait. I made it about halfway through the book, but it dragged for me because I couldn’t get into it so I skimmed to the end to make sure it was happy.
If you enjoy historical fiction and time slip novels, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this book. I think I’m going to avoid time slips in the future though.
Rated PG for thematic elements.