This is the third book in the series by Kristy Cambron, however it can be read as a standalone novel. I did not read the other two books in this series. I really like time-hop books and this was no exception. One of my favs in the genre. The book follows the history surrounding Parham Hill in England in 1840s (Elizabeth's Story), 1940s (Amelia's Story), and present time (Kiera's Story).. Sometimes it was hard to follow the plot, but it all worked out in the end. Amelia's story was my favorite. I didn't realize that was also a "christian" book - I don't tend to read christian fiction, but this book wasn't really focused on religion or anything like that (I guess it could be christian fiction because people do not kiss until they are basically engaged??).

Phenomenal!! I'm so glad Kristy Cambron decided to write this trilogy.
I loved how we followed up with characters from other books and just how she brings the three very different settings to life. Not to mention the castle!!!!

I can't pinpoint a favorite time. All characters bring out their own story and vulnerability, and you can't help but cheer for all of them!! They're all favorites.

This is the final book in the Lost Castle
Series and I loved it.
The characters are so Interesting and the development of the stories are so good.
If you haven’t read this series I recommend you do.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.

This split-time novel is set in the East Suffolk English countryside. Each of the three stories intertwines at the historic Framlingham Castle.

Modern day art historian Keira Foley leaves her native Ireland for what should have been a quick appraisal job on items uncovered during a home renovation. She had not intended to take any more art jobs for a while—not after the way the last one ended—but when approached by a suspected art thief who knows way too much about her history, she can't help but investigate further. Especially when the main piece Emory Scott wants appraised could be an unknown painting by Franz Xaver Winterhalter.

In 1944, Amelia Woods is trying to hold her late husband's estate together and also take in the children who have been sent to the countryside for shelter from the war. Things are turned on their head when the United States Army decides to quarter its officers on her property and in her manor house. Gentle Captain Stevens tries to make the intrusion have as little affect upon her or the children as possible, but there's no denying the friendship that quickly springs up between them.

In Victorian England, Lady Elizabeth Meade knows she's supposed to be hunting for a profitable marriage partner to save herself and her mother from financial ruin, but she's really only after one thing: finding the man who murdered her father. Elizabeth was there the night he was killed, and she's never forgotten the face of the young man in the alley. When her mother's top candidate for Elizabeth's marriage turns out to be that young man all grown up, she faces a choice about how to proceed.

Out of the three books in the Lost Castle series, this one was decidedly my favorite. I had suspected it would be, as I'm more familiar with England and its history than I am with France (The Lost Castle) or Ireland (Castle on the Rise). I actually enjoyed all three of the stories in this novel, though if pressed I might say my favorite belonged to Amelia.

Like the other books, I found juggling three sets of timelines and characters continued to rob each of development and the understanding of motivations. These issues were less noticeable this time, but still present. Split-time just isn't my favorite genre. However, many people enjoy it and this was a rather good sampling of it. It may be just what you're looking for!

I received my copy of the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Recently, I finished reading The Painted Castle. This is the final installment in The Lost Castle series by Kristy Cambron which I have thoroughly enjoyed and wrote about previously. This book is set in England and includes story lines from the present day, WW II, and the reign of Queen Victoria. The book moves between the three stories easily and provides clues throughout allowing the reader to glimpse how the stories are connected. Of course, the dots are not completely apparent until the end of the book. There are multiple twists and turns that certainly keep the reader guessing throughout the book. I did find a family tree to understand how the generations connected might have been useful.

Readers will most enjoy this book if they have read the previous titles although it is not absolutely necessary to understanding the story line. Individuals who watched the PBS series Victoria will enjoy this novel and recall a specific episode that includes this particular painting as well. Individuals who enjoy art or have knowledge of art history will also enjoy the sneak peak into the life of an art historian. All in all a wonderful , enjoyable book for a light, fun read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Painted Castle from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.

I think this one was my favorite out of the entire series! I loved each of the time periods and stories set in those times. The history of the painting was so amazing!

Third in the Lost Castle novels by Kristy Cambron. This one is my favorite so far. Art historian Keira Foley is hired to authenticate a painting at a centuries-old East Suffolk manor. 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? Through the process of authenticating the painting, Keira and Emory discover clues from the past that lead them to the truth. 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 unfolds a story of heartache and hope and unlocks secrets lost for generations just waiting to be found.

Kiera Foley, little sister to brothers Cormac and Quinn (heroes in two of Cambron’s other books), has come home to Dublin to nurse her broken heart at the home she left years ago. She has no plans to leave, until the enigmatic Emory Scott comes into her family’s pub one night with a mysterious job offer.

Emory offers her an astounding amount to just show up at Parham Hill estate and tantalizes her with hints he might have a portrait by the famous Franz Xaver Winterhalter. And despite her bruised emotions and stalled professional career, Kiera shows up. Although Cormac distrusts everything about Emory, Kiera feels a strange peace in his presence. Perhaps she can learn to trust again.

The mystery takes twists and turns that layer together stories from three generations—the mid-1800s, World War II, and present day. Cambron paints a rich portrait of family, faith, lost dreams, forgiveness, and second chances. The story glows from within with rich textures, mystery, historical details, and intrigue.

4.5 stars
When I read a time slip novel, I'm looking for a couple of things. I want all of the plot lines to be interesting and for each have their own unique contribution to the novel as a whole. When one plot line stands out above another, it just makes it harder to get through...I just want to skip to my favorite part. It's always nice, too, when each story line comes together in a clever way. The Painted Castle is the third book in The Lost Castle series by Kristy Cambron. In my opinion, each book in this series just gets better and better! Those things I look for...all of them were in this novel! Each story was very unique, had its own mysteries to unravel, and had an incredible amount of romantic tension..almost to the point of frustration ;-). This book did not feel like three novellas...you get what feels like a full novel in each time period, which I appreciated. I also loved how a singular painting of Queen Victoria connected all three stories. Kristy Cambron added so much rich detail, which always draws me in. I'm a visual person, so being able to create images in my mind is important to me as a reader, and I was certainly able to do that throughout this novel. If you haven't read any of this series, I would suggest starting at the beginning. Each book brings a unique set of stories all connected with the castle theme...which is, honestly, a big part of why I picked them up in the first place.

**I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in order to give an honest review, which I did.**

Kristy Cambron’s The Lost Castle series has been so great, I hate to see it end! But The Painted Castle is a great final chapter in the saga of the Foley family.

Summary

It’s hard to summarize this book, because there are really three stories here—which is my favorite aspect of this series. The story follows Keira Foley in the present day, Amelia Wood during WWII and Elizabeth Meade in Victorian England.

The story revolves around a library and a hidden painting. As you read, the story unfolds slowly, revealing the solutions a little at a time. While you have assume parts of the outcome, the true resolution remains a secret until the very end.

Art historian Keira has come to Parham Hill Estate to authenticate a painting of Queen Victoria. She's attracted to Emory Scott, the head of the restoration project. But he's a rumored art thief, and she's not sure if he can be trusted.

Amelia Wood is already a war widow with hidden wounds when a troop of American pilots come to stay at her estate. She's determined to stay away from them, and only protect the children in her care. But her heart--and one pilot in particular--have different ideas.

Elizabeth Meade witnessed her father's murder when she was just a child. She's been looking for his killer for years. When she and her mother are invited to Parham Hill for a birthday party for a viscount, she is surprised to find herself engaged. But what secrets does Viscount Huxley hold? Can she uncover them in time?


My opinion

This is the third book in a series about siblings who stumble upon castles in Europe. You might think it’s a bit far-fetched and unbelievable. I honestly did when I got to the final book.

However, when you start reading, it not unrealistic at all. The stories are written in such a way that it’s very plausible.

I also loved that The Painted Castle centered around books. It was such a sweet little touch in the story of Amelia and Wyatt.

I love dual-time stories, but Kristy goes a step further and makes this one a triple-time. It’s incredible to read. None of the stores feels lacking, but each is a complete story wound into the others.

Also read: Book Review: The Illusionist's Apprentice by Kristy Cambron
Recommendation

The whole The Lost Castle series is worth reading, but you don’t necessarily need to start at the beginning. (Although the first book is my personal favorite!) While you’ll get a lot of backstory if you read them all, you can read just one and still enjoy it.

Although I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley, I got super busy, and didn’t finish reading it before publishing time. Audiobooks to the rescue! I ended up listening to about half of this book as an audio version. (I borrowed it from my library’s digital service.) If you have an opportunity to listen to the audiobook, I highly recommend that version!

The narrator is amazing, and makes the book so much more real. The characters have so many different nationalities and languages, and it’s easy to miss that when you’re reading silently. Somehow the narrator jumps from British to Irish to American and back again—over and over! It made the book very enjoyable.

Kristy has been a favorite author of mine for a while, and I loved this book and the series.

A gripping story that winds through three different time periods. They are all linked by a painting of Queen Victoria and a charming castle, Parham Hill. Kristy Cambron takes three women, separated by time, and links them through stories of loss and then riveting renewal. All three women face tragic sorrows and lost loved ones in their pasts, trying to move forward with limited success.
Cambron skillfully moves the story between all three time lines. Questions in the present are slowly answered as each story unfolds. The library is bricked up, why? The Queen Victoria painting should have a famous signature on it and does not, who did it? Why is the cozy bee cottage so important? And can each woman put her trust in the man in front of her? I loved getting glimpses into the different time periods. This charming English castle shares it's history one brick and painting at a time. Stories of love, strength, and endurance show three women the path God has laid out for their lives, if they have the faith to take the first step. I look forward to more books by this author. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this reviews are completely my own.

Follow the threads across the centuries to solve the mystery:
Another captivating and intriguing book that was clearly well researched and written. It is set in 3 different time periods which I enjoyed getting glimpses into; however this did make the book feel a little disjointed. Just when I was getting into the characters and plot the book would switch to another time period and I found it a bit challenging keeping all of the timelines straight. It also meant that it was a bit difficult to really connect with the characters on an emotional level. I felt the most connected to the characters set during WWII but wished there had been more time exploring the relationship with the modern day characters especially. I also felt that the ending was a little rushed and the final connections between all of the time periods was just briefly mentioned so that I felt I was still trying to tie all of the threads up in order to make sense of it all. There is a light Christian theme of trusting in God's sovereignty however I would have preferred a greater Christian emphasis.
It was still however a beautiful novel that I enjoyed reading and I would certainly read more by this talented author, but would prefer these to be set in just 1 or perhaps 2 time periods at a time. It may be read as a standalone however reading them in order would probably enjoy the reading experience.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

It’s going to be hard to review The Painted Castle by Kristy Cambron as a stand-alone book because it completes the trilogy begun in The Lost Castle. This trilogy combines Christian fiction with historical fiction. The Painted Castle takes place through three separate story and timelines in East Suffolk, England. Of the three, the Painted Castle was my favorite and I was truly sorry to see this trilogy conclude.
What I loved about The Painted Castle: I loved the men in this book! I’m not sure who I loved more: Keeton, the 1840s viscount; Franz his painter friend; Wyatt Stevens, the American Airmen stationed at Parham Hill Manor during WWII; or Emory Scott, the American art dealer working to restore the Painted Castle in present day. And of course, we have Cormac and Quinn, the dashing Irish brothers from the previous two novels.
I also love the history throughout this book: Franz Winterhaler, and the “secret picture” of Queen Victoria. I actually googled this after I finished the book to see the picture (I didn’t while reading it because I couldn’t tear myself away from the story). The WWII airmen of the 390th Bombardment Group: these brave airmen who ran towards danger, and took care of those around them as well. Parham Hill’s inhabitants included children evacuated during the war, and I loved that the airmen came up with a plan to evacuate these children in the event of a Nazi bombing. And of course, in present day, I loved the art restoration that occurred and glimpses of the Winterhaler portrait, as well as the Klimt painting discussed throughout Emory and Keira’s storyline.
What I didn’t love about the Painted Castle: (I had this complaint about the other 2 books as well), I did not love the 3 storylines. For me, that is one too many storylines. And another personal issue I had with the story is the amount of detail throughout. I actually skipped a lot of the detail to get to the narrative because there was SO MUCH detail. I feel like the stories may have been a bit better if some of the detail had been omitted.
Overall, I loved this story. It was my favorite of the three stories in the Lost Castle trilogy. I hope we get at least one more story because, after all, Mr. Jack Foley needs a story. Please 😊😊
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advanced copy of The Painted Castle. #ThePaintedCastle #Netgalley

What I think you should know:
The Painted Castle is the third book in The Lost Castle Series, the modern story does include updates on characters in the previous books, but can be read as a stand alone. I personally enjoyed the previous books so much that I recommend you reading them prior to this. As in the previous book there are three stories, the first one is in the present day, the second story is set during WWII and the third starts in 1843. All three of the stories are centered around one estate.

What I enjoyed about this book:
Kristy Cambron, the author has written another captivating novel. I don’t know if I could choose a favorite story-line as I enjoyed each of them. While each of their stories is completely different Cambron writes heroines who are so strong and endearing, that I find myself caught up in their stories and cheering them one. I truly enjoyed this book and hope that there is another in the series after this one.

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own

I’m not sure quite how Kristy Cambron manages to weave stories set in three different time periods, but she does so beautifully. Not once was I confused about which story I was in, which time period I was in, or which characters belong to which time period. Each story on its own was captivating, but seeing how they intertwine was amazing. First, you have to give kudos to an author who can even dream up a story such as this one. And then her writing ability just pulls you right in. Her descriptions are vivid, her dialogue is engaging, and her research speaks volumes.

My favorite character was Amelia. She was strong willed, nurturing, and determined. The very first scene where the soldiers are essentially telling her they are going to staying on her property was delightfully funny, and I found myself drawn to Amelia’s character. I can’t even imagine hosting children near such a place as she did, and add in the soldiers that were taking base there – I couldn’t tear myself away from it.

Elizabeth’s story was just mesmerizing to me – trying to find her father’s murderer, and then coming face to face with him under unlikely circumstances. But her ability to sketch, and Cambron’s ability to bring that to life on paper, makes me wonder if Cambron has some artistic ability herself. Let me just say this – thanks to Cambron’s detailed descriptions, I felt like I was looking at the eyes of the murderer, and they were ingrained in my head throughout the story.

Present day Keira was just as wonderful a character as the others. The world of art fascinates me, mostly because I know nothing about it. But how can you tell a real from a fake? How do you know what time period a painting came from? This is a perfect example of how Cambron does her homework before writing a book. I may not be an art major, but Cambron makes it seem so easy and simple. In fact, she makes you feel as if you are the character, searching for clues and bringing it all together.

I’m always nervous about multiple time periods in a story, especially three. But Kristy Cambron never disappoints. Her uniquely written stories are a joy to read, and while I am sorry to see this series go, I know it just means she has something else great in store for us! The Painted Castle has something for everyone – history, art, romance, mystery, and adventure. Highly recommend this book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is a heartwarming story entwining three different generations in three different time periods, and at the heart of each is the same special library and the mysterious portrait it holds. The portrait mystery is based on a real portrait of a young Queen Victoria painted by Franz Winterhalter, known as "the secret picture," featuring Victoria in a more informal pose for her husband, Prince Albert, and the mystery of who painted the copy of it and how it came to be walled away in a secret library drives the present-day story.

It's rare that I enjoy all of the story lines equally in a multi-stranded story. I usually find myself drawn more to the past, but in this case I was hooked on all three. Three women trying to pick up the pieces of their lives after tragedy and heartache, trying to find themselves and their place in changing worlds. I was so engrossed and so anxious to see how each story would play out that I did not want to put the book down. The suspense, the anticipation, the romance--all struck a perfect balance. And it was an emotional read on many levels. This is inspirational fiction, but that theme is very light. It's practically nonexistent in the two past story lines but it's surprisingly more relevant in the present-day story, and I thought that a nice twist.

I'm tempted to rate this five stars just on all the feels alone, but I can't overlook how rushed the resolutions of each story line felt. Endings can make or break a book. The ending certainly doesn't break this one, but after so much delicious buildup, I would have liked a little more time spent on wrapping up each story. Some things took place off the page and I questioned why the reader wasn't made privy to those plot points as they happened. And I still have some questions, particularly about Viscount Huxley. It's still a satisfying ending; I just wanted a little more insight and closure to make it perfect.

I have not read the first two books in this series, and I did not feel this story suffered at all for not having read them as they are only loosely connected, but I definitely want to read them now! The Painted Castle is rich, emotional storytelling, weaving together three eras and illuminating how, though times change, the human experience doesn't. Highly recommended for romantic historical fiction lovers.

This is the third book in the Lost Castle series, I've loved each book in the series, but I think this one is my favorite. There were three stories included in this book, one from the 1800's, one from WWII and one from the present day. Each story kept me turning pages, I loved that the female characters were strong women, who found strength amidst adversity. I loved all three stories and how engaging they were, I couldn't wait to continue reading, to find out what would happen next. Keep reading past the end, I loved reading about how the author chose certain parts of the book, there are also some discussions questions if you want to read this as a book club read.

The Painted Castle is the third and final book in the Lost Castle series by Kristy Cambron. Such good reads--all three! But I think this is my favorite. Castles, heroines, art, mysteries to solve and, of course, romance. I enjoy historical romance and with this time-slip novel set in three different eras, (Victorian, WWII, and contemporary) there is a lot of 'historical' going on! One tidbit of history I found to be quite interesting has to do with a curious monkey and a man with a yellow hat and the authors who brought them to life. The author has a masterful way with words that puts the reader right into the scenes--she knows how to bring the story and her characters to life. The characters are realistic and their actions and emotions are reasonable and relatable. I especially liked the WWII story--the hero was quite the hero--I so wanted Amelia to move beyond her past and connect with him. I liked how the tie-in between the three stories is revealed layer by layer throughout the book and also the great cliff-hangers between the various sections of the stories. The Painted Castle is, as the title suggests, a story about a castle but it is so much more. There is courage, compassion, grief, and the message of faith in the ever-present God who is working in our lives to build stories that become our legacy to those who come after us. This is a book for readers who love historical romance. I am looking forward to reading more from this author. I received a complimentary copy of the book through CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and the opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.

Kristi Cambron has again produced a split time novel. The painted Castle is the third book in her Lost Castle series. While it takes a while to get into the book as you are skipping back and forth between 3 different times and 3 different sets of characters. As I gt into each story I began to appreciate the talent that it takes to write 3 separate storylines and then fit them together in a way that makes sense, and even better, entertains. Kristi is one talented lady! I love reading about castles and she does an excellent job with descriptions. Referring back to the series I really enjoyed the three distinct castles, one each in France, Ireland, and England. The Foley family is quite engrossing and protective of each other. So grab your favorite beverage and settle in for a great read.

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

It's that time of year when many people are looking for the best bargains whether it be  Christmas gifts, Black Friday sales, or just everyday BOGO deals. Are you one of them? Well, if you are and if you're looking for a book that has three absolutely amazing stories that are tied together, then you should definitely look for The Painted Castle by Kristy Cambron! It is a single story that tells three connected stories during three different time periods. The first story is about an artist in Victorian England, the second is about a widow in World War II and the third is about a modern day art historian who has to learn the stories about the other two ladies' lives for her new job. Which story was my favorite? That, my friend, is a very good question. I think my favorite was the story I was reading in the chapter I was on. I would get caught up in the story for the chapter or two and want to know more, and then the author would switch to a different story where I would pick up where the story left off before and I would start the process of getting caught up in the story all over again! I loved how Elizabeth's story had somewhat of a sinister mystery involved, how Amelia's story told about World War II and the challenges even the  British countryside faced, and how Keira's story was a mystery in figuring out the history of the manor. I also loved how each one included romance. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially time slip novels. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.