First, we would just like to say that we generally love Kristy Cambron's writing and really liked her novel, The Lost Castle. So we eagerly picked up Castle on the Rise, thinking it would captivate us just as well!

Unfortunately, it did not. We normally love a double/triple storyline to follow, but it seems just as we would get excited about one storyline, the next time we picked back up with it, a lot of time had passed, or the circumstances had changed and the thing we were excited about was over, or dealt with. Additionally, the Irish history was a bit hard to understand and follow, and some characters had similar names which thoroughly threw us off.

Kristy Cambron had her usual style of intelligent writing, historical depth and beautiful imagery, so we definitely look forward to reading more of her books in the future.

In the end, however - this is a shameful thing to admit! - we only made it through about 70% of the book and just couldn't waste any more time on it. It just didn't really grab us and draw us in.

This latest read from Kristy Cambron, "Castle on the Rise," is such a masterpiece! Kristy has done another incredible job with this book as she weaves together stories from various generations, melding together history and present day so seamlessly. I have never been to Ireland, but after reading this, I had a strong desire to go visit. Laine is such an amazing character (one of many in this story!) and I found her very relatable and loved being on this adventure with her. The mysterious castle was such a great backdrop to so many secrets and so many lives throughout the centuries and it was so vividly described that I felt as if I was there wandering the halls and uncovering the layers of stories housed within the walls. If you have not read a book by Kristy, run out and get all of her stories, but most definitely this one as it is a book you do not want to miss!

Castle on the Rise is a richly detailed and engaging story that unfolds over three different time periods with three unique women at the forefront of each timeline.

Laine has traveled to France to attend her best friend's wedding and is bringing along some additional baggage in terms of her failed marriage that she hasn't yet shared news of with her best friend. While she is trying to keep up the charade, she finds herself intrigued by and drawn to Cormac, the groom's brother. The setting of the novel shifts from the wedding in France to Ireland where Cormac and his family have inherited a mysterious castle. Laine and Cormac begin digging deeper into the castle's history and also unearth more about their interest in each other.

Issy loves to take photographs, whether her parents see the value of it or not, but also finds herself drawn into the uprising for Irish freedom in 1915. Her brother Rory and his friend Levi are in great danger and Issy soon finds out that Sean, whom her heart cannot forget, is equally in a precarious area of Ireland. She does the only thing she knows to do, which is venture into the fray with her camera at her side to capture the strife as it happens.

Maeve finds herself lady of the castle with her brother away and her father simply not acting to manage the estate. She discovers Eoin and believes him a traitor and enemy of her family, however he is gravely injured and she simply cannot refuse him care. Eion begins to earn her trust and she learns that those she trusted before may not have her best interests in mind. Maeve also finds herself embroiled in a battle between the English and Irish in 1797.

Each one of these narratives is so well told, with vivid details and interesting characters. I felt myself enjoying each woman's storyline so much that I could not pick a favorite among them. This is the second novel I have read by Kristy Cambron and I very much appreciate how well her novels are researched and the true readability of the books.

While this novel is listed as a sequel to The Lost Castle, I believe each book could be read independently. I received this book courtesy of Thomas Nelson through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A fictionalized view of Irish rebellion told across three time periods: the late 18th century, the 1916 Easter Rising, and present day. From fiery Maeve who fights to maintain peace on her family's Irish estate, to photographer Issy who records history during the Easter Rising, and finally to Laine who uncovers the trails Maeve and Issy left behind, this story highlights females caught in the midst of the violent conflicts between English and Irish over the years.

A pleasant, if quite predictable and saccharine, family saga. The three plot lines are uneven, which makes for a jarring read. Laine and Maeve's stories are more romance-driven sagas, while Issy's is a dramatic retelling of events inside a war zone.

I really like the premise of Castle on the Rise. I'm there for mysterious castles and romantic heroes. For the most part I enjoyed this book. I think all three of the plot lines are interesting. Unfortunately, I feel like each story isn't getting the time it deserves. Every time I feel like I'm getting comfortable with the characters and the plot, it's time to move on to the next one. I wish more time was spent on each time period or maybe one of the stories was told through letters. This is just my opinion, and like I said, it's a great premise. I recommend checking the book out for yourself.

I received this book from Netgalley for the purpose of review.

Set in Ireland over three time periods revolving around three generations of women and their devotion to the castle. As much as I wanted to I did not enjoy the story even though I read the first book in the series and enjoyed it much better. This did have a lot of history in it but the book itself really dragged.
Pub Date 05 Feb 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.

This was a period Irish romance told from three different points of view. The story was quite slow but engaging, lyrical and detailed. I found myself drawn into the book quickly and finished reading it in one session.
highly recommended

Castle on The Rise is book two of Kristy Cambron's Lost castle series. This book tells the tale of three women whose lives are linked by their devotion to the Castle. The setting is Ireland and the Book has 3 stories running simultaneously. Maeve lives in 1798 at the beginning of the Irish rebellion. Issy is a photographer during The Easter Rebellion of 1916. Laine lives in contemporary times. She travels to Ireland with a friend.

I loved all the details of Irish life. The descriptions of the countryside and castle, plus the local pub with it's snugs was quite satisfying. After I got used to who belonged to which time period, I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to reading the next book in the series which will be released later this year.

So brew up a pot of Irish Breakfast tea and settle into your snug for a thoroughly enjoyable read!

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

This was a romance set in Ireland over three time periods. In the present day, Laine Forrester and her daughter attend the wedding of Ellie and Quinn. When Quinn’s brother Cormac turns up Laine is attracted to him.
In 1915 and 1916 in Dublin, Issy gets caught up in a revolution and uses her camera to take snapshots of key people and events of the Irish revolution, all the while trying to help and protect her friends and family while her life is in danger.
Back in 1797 Maeve Ashford falls in love and is also involved with the Irish rebellion.
Throughout the novel is the backdrop of an old ruined castle and Ashford Manor and the mystery of a missing piano.
I loved the way the novel was woven around the three different time periods – 1790’s and mostly 1916 and the present time. Two different Irish rebellions and two strong women putting their life in danger to protect their families, friends and neighbors.
The backdrop of the ruined castle Chryn and the story of the people who once lived there kept me reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A time-slip novel about Irish rebellions, romance and family secrets all on the backdrop of a castle in Ireland, sign me up! This story spans over two centuries and effectively intertwines the lives of three independent women. The novel begins with Laine (the best friend of Ellie from book one of the series) traveling to Ireland to attend Ellie's wedding. I am happy that I did read book one first.
This book was well-researched and had a wealth of Irish history. I have seen this novel shelved as "Christian fiction" but I feel this was for the faith and hope themes. This was an excellent read, a must read for historical fiction fans! 4 stars!

This wasn't my favorite Kristy Cambron novel, mostly because the historical parts weren't that interesting to me. I also found the story was slow moving as it took place in three different eras and switches between the three POV characters every chapter. The switch to a different time period and a different POV every chapter at times I found it a little hard to transition my brain between them.

Usually, I am a huge fan of Kristy Cambron. I love also this novel is set in Ireland and spans three generations. However, I did not enjoy this one as much as the others because of the pacing and that nothing really happens in this novel. Still, Mrs. Cambron has strong writing that is filled with rich historical detail. I recommend this for fans of Melanie Dobson.

Well, for starters...this author...Kristy Cambron....is a favorite of mine! All of her books are on my MUST READ list. Well, I mean, the ones I haven't read yet...or her new ones as they come out. I've read all her other books.

I started with the ones she wrote about WWII and the horrors of the concentration camps. I was hooked.

I love her style. The way she takes two (or, in this case, three) different time lines and weaves them together into one heartwarming, soul-stirring story.

This one is no exception. As soon as I heard about it...way back before it was released, I knew I wanted to read it. And not only because of the author...but also...because, well CASTLES! In Ireland!!

I love the characters. (If you've read her previous castle book, The Lost Castle, you will be reunited with old friends). Now we get Laine's story.

The setting. I've already said it. I LOVE castles and have a dream of exploring some of these delightful old things someday....preferably in Europe somewhere... ;)

The times in history...well, I’ll be honest. At times these parts dragged a tiny bit. I had a hard time understanding and following all the details of the Irish Rebellion...or whatever it is officially called. But I did enjoy the meeting the characters in each time period.

The life lessons. Ms. Cambron has such a way with words. A way of weaving them together, giving a beautiful story, while making me think...about life...and so much more.

This story faces some of the difficult issues, including cancer. You learn about...Faith. Hope. Friendship and more.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

This intriguing historical spans several centuries. I would get caught up in the story of one period of Irish history, only to be swept a hundred years away. It would have been easier for me to follow and keep things straight if each was told in chronological order, but I realize that would have robbed this time-slip novel of the suspense as the modern-day characters discovered the past and uncovered some of the castle’s secrets. After I got into the tale, I enjoyed it and learned so much about Ireland’s stormy past. This book definitely evokes sympathy for the rebels. The characters all seemed quite real, and it felt like I was in their midst as the drama unfolded. The author does a good job developing the plot and action, climaxing with a fitting conclusion. I expected a different kind of castle tale, but this epic is certainly worth the read. Now I need to find time to read the first book of the series since this one piqued my curiosity. This book stands alone well, though. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

I actually love reading a book that sends me on a history quest. Not only were there three love stories to enjoy, I also learned so much about the Irish Rebellions of 1796 and 1916. Now to back track to book one.

Castle on the Rise weaves three narratives from three different time frames together to give readers a glimpse into Ireland’s storied past and exciting present. It’s an Inspirational tale about facing life’s challenges with vigor, hope and faith.

This is the second book in the Lost Castle series, and the hero and heroine from the previous book play supporting roles in this novel. Their story is continued here, so while book two can easily be read without reading book one, you should be warned that Castle on the Rise contains spoilers for that first novel.

Laine Forrester is attending her best friend’s wedding when she meets Cormac Foley. Brother to the groom, Cormac is a handsome, kindly man who works in the family pub back in Dublin. But he didn’t attend the festivities just to celebrate his brother’s nuptials, he brings news from home. One of their regular patrons has recently died and left them a castle in her will. They must decide how to deal with the ruins of Castle Chryn in Bray, County Wicklow, and the house which sits on the land, Ashford Manor.

In 1916, the manor is home to Lady Isolde (Issy) Byrne and her brother Rory. Issy is an amateur photographer who dreams of making a difference in the world. Rory dreams of freedom for the Irish people, and to that end he has joined the Irish Citizens Army, along with his friends Sean and Levi O’Connell. Sean, who has long had a crush on Issy, serves as a vicar, ministering to the needs of the rebels. While Issy begins the tale uncertain of her politics, Sean and Rory slowly pull her into the ICA.

In 1797, Maeve Ashford is mistress of Ashford Manor. Although her family is English and protestant, she is sympathetic to the Irish people and considers herself one of them. When she finds an injured Eoin O’Byrne on her family’s land land, she hides him in a tower room and nurses him back to health. She quickly falls in love with the Irish Catholic dissident but not everyone wishes the couple happy.

In the present, Laine, whose family once owned an antique shop, helps Cormac explore and catalog the history of Ashford Manor while in another time, Issy photographs the true story of the ICA uprising. Yet further in the past, Maeve and Eoin forge a love story for the ages against a backdrop of rebellion.

Issy and Maeve’s portions of the story aren’t so much rich in history as exorbitant in it. I found that difficult since I am not very interested in Ireland’s past and the characters were so much informed by the politics of their era that I couldn’t become interested in them, either, and unfortunately, the modern day story suffers by giving so much page space to the historical tales. While Laine and Cormac struck me as both interesting individuals and an interesting potential couple, so much of the small page-time they were allotted was devoted to their interactions with their various family members and friends that we don’t really get to know them. We learn details about their individual histories but knowledge of them as a couple or that deeper knowledge of who they are, deep in their inner soul is lacking.

The faith portion of the story is light, making vague references to a generic God who could apply to any Christian denomination. Some of the people who speak of their faith own a bar and are as comfortable in that environ as in a church and the tale makes no effort to distinguish between Protestatism and Catholicism. Those two factors are a bit unusual in inspirationals, so I thought they merited a mention.

Castle on the Rise simply lacked the depth and detail to convey in full the ambitious story it attempted to tell. If the author had focused on any one of her stories, or even any two of them, she would have been better able to weave together a fascinating book. As it stands, good prose and provocative history keep the novel from being bad but lack the power to raise it above an average read.

Review will be posted don 3/7/19
Laine travels to France to attend her best friend's vineyard wedding. She is expecting perfection. France? A vineyard? What is not to love? But she finds out some upsetting information from the bride, Ellie, and perhaps things aren't as perfect as she thought. After the wedding, she finds herself traveling to Ireland with Ellie in tow to help her out in her time of need. This works for Laine though as she is avoiding heading back home as she has her own issues that she is dealing. The story also jumps to two different time periods in Ireland all surrounding the castle that Ellie's family is refurbishing. The first time period featured are 1916 during the Rising and then there's also the 18th century. Kirsty Cambron's Castle on the Rise is a clean historical read for fans of Irish tales.

I really enjoyed the character of Laine and following her experience in Ireland in Castle on the Rise. She is on her own over there along with her young daughter and I loved her loyalty to her best friend. But when it comes down to it, Ireland helped Laine deal with the many issues she was avoiding back at home. Slowly, Cambron reveals to us more about Laine and the truth surrounding her past. I was really drawn to this current day plot line over the others, mostly because I wasn't sure how the other plot lines were really connected to the full story.

Once the various plot points in the other narratives started to come together, I enjoyed Castle on the Rise a bit more. But you have to stick with the first half of the story (it's slow moving) and trust that Cambron will bring everything together. Essentially, the three narratives focus on three women from different time periods, their experiences, love, and forgiveness.

The beautiful descriptions of Ireland were my favorite part of Castle on the Rise. The castle, the pubs, and the lush landscapes were all well done. It made me want to plan another trip to the beautiful Emerald Isle. The castle itself becomes an important character that ties the three narratives together beautifully.

During the month of March, I always make it a goal to read a book set in Ireland; so, if you are looking for a read that's perfect for St. Patrick's Day, check out Castle on the Rise. It is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone.

Castle on the Rise is the second book in the Lost Castle series. I'm sad to say that I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first book, The Lost Castle. I don't know if was the book or just my reading mood, but I had a hard time following all three timelines. I also wasn't fond of a few things that happened in the book.

I did like the setting. It was nice to read a book about Ireland, even if the storyline wasn't a happy one at times.

All in all, I liked Castle on the Rise but didn't love it.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

From Dublin to the shores of the Emerald Isle this story has mysteries, secrets and friendships that all together span two decades. I really enjoyed the stories of these three strong and determined women. . Yes, they all tied together, were wonderful stories and fascinating facts of Ireland that I enjoyed, but, I really didn’t like how often the stories jumped back and forth between the women’s lives. I was sometimes having to go back a few paragraphs to see who we had left and now we were into. I did really enjoy the story and if you enjoy history full of mysteries, secrets and strong friendships you should enjoy it.

I thought this book was good. It was a little hard to follow the different stories throughout the book. I would just get into the story and it would switch stories.I didn’t see the connection between the stories until the very end. I felt like the story wrapped up and ended very quickly. I did enjoy learning a little bit of Ireland’s history. I have visited there and could picture the present day scenes clearly. I enjoyed getting to know Issy, Laine and Maeve. I liked how they persevered throughout the trials they faced.

I recommend this book to my friends who love time slip novels.

I received this book from the publisher to read and give my honest opinion.