A Duke's Promise

Forgotten Castles #3

by Jamie Carie

Award-winning writer Jamie Caries concludes her most epic storyline with a wonderful twist in A Duke’s Promise, the final Forgotten Castles novel.

From the Land of Fire and Ice back to England’s shores, Alexandria Featherstone finds herself the new Duchess of St. Easton. Her husband has promised a wedding trip to take them to the place where her imperiled parents were last seen -- Italy and the marble caves of Carrara -- but a powerful Italian duke plots against Alex and her treasure-hunting parents.

Hoping to save them, Alex and Gabriel travel to Italy by balloon. Fraught with danger on all sides and pressured by Gabriel’s affliction to the breaking point, they must learn to work and fight together. The mysterious key is within their grasp, but they have yet to recognize it. This journey will require steadfast faith in God and each other -- a risk that will win them everything they want or lose them everything they have.

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Christian, Regency, Historical Romance

320 pages, Paperback

First published August 8, 2012

About the author

Born and raised in Vincennes, Indiana, Jamie is a preacher’s daughter. Road trips with her dad—to and from Bible studies across Indiana—were filled with talks of things beyond earth’s bounds – creation and the fall, God and Jesus and the rapture, the earthly walk compared to the spiritual walk, and how we are born for more than what we can see or touch. The highlight of those nights was stopping at a truck stop in the middle of the night where her dad spent a little of the offering basket on two slices of pie and a couple of Cokes.

And nothing could stop the writing pouring out of her.

Piles of poems, short stories, skits and song lyrics later, Jamie grew up and married. When her eldest son turned five she decided to try her hand at novels. Eight years and lots of rejection letters later, Snow Angel was published and won ForeWord Magazine’s Romance Book of the Year, a USA Book News “Best Books 2007” Awards winner, and 2008 RITA® Awards Best First Book finalist. In 2010 Wind Dancer was a finalist in the Indiana State Library Best Books of Indiana. It was the beginning of her dream career.

With seven books currently in circulation and her first three book series coming in 2012, Jamie has made an impressive contribution to the inspirational, historical romance genre featuring heroines who are fierce in their beliefs and love. Romantic Times exclaimed, "Carie is a welcome new voice in the inspirational fiction market." And, "Carie writes with her heart on every page of her books." Jamie has a passion for history and believes in the power of love stories. She lives with her husband and three boys in Indianapolis, Indiana.

If she could only say one thing to her readers it would be, “Live the dreams God has destined you for!”

Books:

Snow Angel
The Duchess and the Dragon
Wind Dancer
Love's First Light
Angel's Den
Pirate of my Heart
The Snowflake (a Christmas novella)

Coming in 2012:
The Forgotten Castles Series (A continuous series to be read in order)
The Guardian Duke
The Forgiven Duke
A Duke's Promise

Contacting Jamie:

Jamie's website - http://www.jamiecarie.com
Jamie's blog - http://jamiecarie.com/blog
Jamie's Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/jamie.carie
Jamie's Twitter - https://twitter.com/#!/jamiecarie

Jamie's email: jamie@jamiecarie(dot)com

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 1 out of 5]

{This is not a clean book! If you’re under 17 please do not read this book, series or this review!}

**THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW; I’m not holding back my thoughts or opinions!

About this book:

“From the Land of Fire and Ice back to England’s shores, Alexandria Featherstone finds herself the new Duchess of St. Easton. Her husband has promised a wedding trip to take them to the place where her imperiled parents were last seen -- Italy and the marble caves of Carrara -- but a powerful Italian duke plots against Alex and her treasure-hunting parents.
Hoping to save them, Alex and Gabriel travel to Italy by balloon. Fraught with danger on all sides and pressured by Gabriel’s affliction to the breaking point, they must learn to work and fight together. The mysterious key is within their grasp, but they have yet to recognize it. This journey will require steadfast faith in God and each other -- a risk that will win them everything they want or lose them everything they have.”


Series: Book #3 in the “Forgotten Castles” series. {Book #2 wasn’t clean either, book #1 was decent but will lead into sexual content in book #2.}


Spiritual Content- Prayers; ‘H’s are capital; There’s a couple talks about God; A couple Scriptures are quoted; Mentions of Heaven; Katherine doesn’t trust/believe in God, Ian does however; a Mention of the city of Jericho, Adam & Isaac; The paperwork that Alexandria’s parents were/are hunting for it the blueprints to a weapon, that once they find it (the actual machine) turns out to be a giant music box that supposedly is a “glimpse of heaven’s music”.
*Note: a “pit of h*ll” and a “devilishly attractive”; saying “Thank God” flippantly


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘idiot’, two ‘wretched’ and two forms of ‘stupid’; Curses are said but not written (or they’re cut off); Mentions of drinking spirits and tobacco; Lots of fighting and killing (all the way up to detailed).


Sexual Content- GRAPHIC CONTENT- a ‘hot’ when referring to how someone looks; two ‘hoyden’; Staring and Noticing (semi-detailed); Many mentions of blood of wedding night (detailed and it happens, again, detailed); What happen in Book #2 and being a virgin (detailed); 9 detailed kisses; 10 semi-detailed kisses; Many Barely-above-not-detailed kisses; Wanting to kiss (semi-detailed); Actual s*x scenes (between a newly married couple and not as detailed as it could be but still pretty detailed!); Remember nighttime intimates and doing those in the daytime (semi-detailed); Mentions of what newlyweds do (semi-detailed); A Mention that Gabriel walks around “the room stark naked in daylight and thought nothing of it!”; Touches (very, very detailed); Mentions of two men that ruined a women (barely-above-not-detailed); Katherine conceived a baby out of wedlock, then was married to Ian (not the baby’s father) and the baby was stillborn; Katherine mentions losing her virginity (semi-detailed); Franco uses Katherine and it’s pretty, Ian is upset that Katherine would agree to be called on, but it’s revealed that Franco would use Alexandria if not Katherine(again it’s all very detailed and eww); Franco stares at Alexandria and Gabriel doesn’t like how he looks at her (semi-detailed); Alexandria was an “accident”; Love, a newly married couple & the emotions. (lots, lots, lots!)

-Alexandria Ravenwood
-Gabriel Ravenwood
P.O.V. switches between them, Ian, Katherine and another dude who’s name isn’t said (but I think it’s Franco).
Set in 1819 {Epilogue 1879}
320 pages

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Pre Teens- Less Than One Star
New Teens- Less Than One Star
Early High School Teens- Less Than One Star
Older High School Teens- Less Than One Star
My personal Rating- Less Than One Star
{I truly would like to rip this book to shreds in this review, but I’ll be somewhat nice.}
When I *finally* finished this book I was shaking my head muttering “I can’t even”. And not in a good way. I didn’t like this book and now it’s my job to convince you not to read this book or this series.
The romance and intimate scenes completely took over the plot and was there on every page. Talk about Ewwww! And then the pervert named Franco. Really!? Did the author really have to be detailed in those scenes?! I mean, it’s bad enough just saying it puts it in your mind but to actually have it detailed!
This book also messes with the Spirit world as far as I’m concerned! The machine they’re been hunting for is apparently a music box that sounds like heaven’s music (note it’s never said with a capital ‘H’) and all the way to the point where a man get burned when he touches it. I mean, what?! A giant box here on earth that creates music like heaven’s! That doesn’t even make sense! What is this, Fantasy?!

So, moral of this review: Stay away from this series, it leads to sexual details which you DON’T need in your head.




*BFCG does NOT recommend this book. Just don’t even bother with it.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars.
This was the weakest book in the series. The first half was good, as Alexandria finally began to mature and started out on her new marriage. I also loved the adventure by air balloon.
However, there was a great deal of objectionable content in here. The marriage bed parts pretty much stopped only right before the Act. As in, being naked, or mentioning "she didn't know it could be done in the daytime" and then it obviously being done at that time. And the whole part about the villain who wanted to ruin her mother.
After all this reading to get to her parents, I was really disappointed with the sort of people they turned out to be. They are unscrupulous and apparently not even that much in love with each other (I'd assumed they were some kind of lovebirds from a few comments in the first book, but obviously not so much.) The whole last half of the book felt shabby and unbelievable, especially when her mother's archenemy met the Duke. And the revealing of the treasure they sought fell flat to me.
I really, really wish it had lived up to the promise of the first book.

[Joanna · Rating 1 out of 5]

It wasn't clean. I figured since the last book left a bad taste in my mouth, this one wouldn't be any better. It was worse. I wasn't interested in this book at all anyway. I just wanted to read the end to find out if the heroine ever found her parents. So I basically read the end so I could know for sure.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is the third book in a series where the story continues over the entire series. I really enjoyed the first book and thought it had a great setup, even though the main characters don't meet. The second book however took a downturn for me, and I was hoping that it would recover in this third book when Alexandria and Gabriel are married, but things just got more melodramatic and my patience was completely gone. The scenes told from Alex's missing parents' points of view made it different from the previous books, and we also get the perspective from a lusty crazed Spanish duke who turns out to be a stalker of the Featherstone women as well as pursuing the manuscript. The sexual content of the book is borderline and I wouldn't consider it entirely clean. The vague descriptions of the machine the manuscript is about reduced the sense of the importance of their discovery.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

[Mummy Cat Claire · Rating 2 out of 5]

I might even lower this to 1.5.
This book starts out with the Duke and Duchess already married. The duchess was nervous about her "wedding night." The book was actually a clean read, or as close as you can get, without having full on sex in the book.
I realize this is the third book in a series, but several reviews posted that this book is a stand alone. I'm not really sure about that so all I can say is this book was quite confusing.
At first, I felt if I just continued on things would be answered. But no. I actually got more confused and from there I lost interest. There were so many questions in the book that were never answered for me. One is the history of the characters? Why did they love each other? I ask because the romance was almost non-existent for me. There just wasn't anything there to let me see their love for one another. The farther the book went, the more it was only about her parents.
The book is called A Duke's Promise because he promises to the Duchess that he will find her parents. The parents, have been captured and are being held by someone who wants what they have.
I really wasn't able to get far in this book. I told myself to go half way and if nothing changed then I give up. So I got half way and UGH! it was a struggle to get that far.
I was confused about the Duke's hearing. It seemed he was deaf but the author never really discussed his condition. Was he born that way? Was there an accident or was it unknown? Anything? Beuler? Beuler? Then his hearing just comes back. Waaa? Is it like being mute? it comes and goes(reference to Ever After).
Moving on...the Duke and Duchess go to France and Italy in search of her parents. While in France they find they are being followed by Spaniards and other enemies.
For whatever reason, Carie just wasn't able to create exciting characters or elements to the book to keep my interest. Especially when the main characters come up with a plan to have impersonators to trick their enemies. Really?
This is a Christian novel and the way it was done was quite cheesy. Bible verses would be put at the end of a chapter or italicized as part of a characters thought.
Overall, this book lacked substance. The characters were boring, the premise of the book was boring, or at least, delivered in a boring way. The biblical elements were somewhat annoying. Any time I saw italics, I just skipped over it. I wasn't able to get into the book and figure out what was going on. The author's writing was very vague and frustrating. I just wanted answers. Why was he deaf, how come he could read lips? That's a skill that comes over time. What were the issues behind her upbringing and their marriage? Who was John and why did he abuse her? On and on and on. Okay, so maybe there is a huge back story and I was just coming in way too late. *shrugs* I don't know. It all just didn't work for me. This book just didn't work for me.

Content: clean read (no sex scenes but you know what's being talked about) no language

Received by Netgalley in return for an honest review.

[Julie Graves]

Alexandria and Gabriel are now married. Facing her wedding night with trepidation Alexandria still does not know if she was violated by John, her former fiancé. Not a good way to start a marriage.

Gabriel has made Alexandria a promise to help her find her parents. The Featherstone’s are treasure hunters and have been missing for over a year now. With many people wanting what the Featherstone’s are seeking, life is very dangerous for Alexandria.

Gabriel is still afflicted with his hearing problem. He seems to lose it when he is seasick or at high altitudes, which doesn’t help him when he and Alexandria hire an aeronaut to take them in her hot air balloon to Italy. His hearing is also exacerbated by the floating colors he sees.

An evil Duke has taken the Featherstone’s captive. He has threatened to abuse Alexandria if they do not hand over the manuscript that they have been seeking. The manuscript supposedly contains the plans for a weapon that could be devastating for the countries that do not have it. Will Alex and Gabriel be able to find the Featherstone’s before this manuscript gets into the wrong hands?

I have to say I was disappointed in this last installment of The Forgotten Castles trilogy. The beginning scene of Gabriel and Alexandria’s wedding night was on the border of too much. Really the scene needed to stop at the bedroom door. I did enjoy all of the action that took place. The romance between Gabriel and Alexandria was special, but again the borderline sex scenes were a bit uncomfortable. I also had a problem with Gabriel’s seeing colors. It sounded too much of aura’s and the whole “new age” way of thinking. The ending with the big reveal of what the great weapon was not very satisfying and a bit over the top as far as the spiritual realm goes. I would have liked it better if the author had concentrated more on Alexandria’s relationship with her parents. There needed to be more resolution in that relationship. So yes, there was excitement in the story that keeps a person on the edge of their seat, but there were also scenes that I thought the author took too far.

[Abbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book three starts off right where book two leaves off. Alex and Gabriel’s wedding. We start with the wedding night and Alex’s deep secret comes to light and threatens to ruin the very new marriage. Once that issue is dealt with they head off on their honeymoon to Paris and then on to Italy to hopefully find Alex’s parents. Of course they are met with danger along the way. Once they get to Italy they find out that they are in more danger then they realize and must work together and against the clock to save her parents and themselves.

This book wraps up the story of Gabriel and Alex. I enjoyed it over all and was a little sad to see the adventure end but happy with the ending.

What I liked: I liked that Alex seemed to grow up a little more in this book. In book one and even in book two she seemed quite young and immature. In this book she seemed a little more like a lady but she still had her spunk. I also liked getting to know her parents a little after reading about them some in the first two books. Though they where not quite what I expected.

What I did not like: The main story line of this book had to do with finding Alex’s parents and finding the manuscript. I don’t want to give away the ending but it was a little weird. It was not so much what they found but what it did when they found it. I kind of scratched my head a little because I had trouble imagining what I was reading which made it harder for me to get. I also still feel the whole hearing loss that Gabriel had was weird and how it played into the final climax of this book was even weirder.

Over all though I enjoyed this book. I enjoyed seeing Alex and Gabriel as a couple and how they worked together. They where a little much in the romance department at times but they where newlyweds in the book. Definitely a series worth reading if you like historical fiction.

http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...

[J.C. Morrows · Rating 5 out of 5]

An ending has never been so bittersweet.

I’m not at all certain there are enough words to describe the emotions this powerful story has invoked within me!

In my review of book 2, I said that I hope they NEVER make it into a movie because they’ll just ruin it and I still feel that way. But I am amazed at the irony of that statement because there is a note about a certain part of the book only being shown properly on-screen. I simply can not explain it – except to say that it was an odd insight.


I also mentioned that I was quite happy about there was another book because it meant the adventure had not come to a close but now that it has, it is indeed bittersweet.

I love the way the story has ended and I am amazed at how Jamie Carie was able to leave the story with such a feeling of possibility. Even though this story has come to an end, there is such a feeling of what is still to come.

The third book in Jamie Carie’s Forgotten Castles series is a shining beacon of what God’s love is capable of accomplishing and even though the path of our heroes is not completely free of obstacles, their steps are clearly being led by God’s own hand.


The third book is certainly the most serious of the three but it is done so very well, the story simply flows from the second and I applaud Jamie’s talent once again.

Like me, you may not wish for the series to end, but you certainly do not want to miss this book. And don’t be surprised if you find your heart a little broken as you turn the last pages.

At least Jamie Carie has written stories of other adventures we can enjoy!

Thank you to B&H for providing me with this free review copy! The opinions above are my own.

[writer... · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Duke's Promise, book 3 and final in the Forgotten Castles series by Jame Carie
published by B&H Books

Fantastic story of creative imagination that captivated me through to its completion...

Alexandria has certainly matured from her beginnings in the series and now as a newlywed to the Duke of St Easton, she must learn to make her decisions and choices in partnership. It's a fantastic story of adventure, drama, intrigue, romance and an ending that dazzles. A brilliant book that introduces readers to inventions of the age that prove their use in furthering the adventures of our protagonists.

We are privy to meeting Alexandria's parents while on their treasure hunting expedition to find the lost manuscript,learning of their perspectives on parenting and relationship with their daughter. We're also present when they are re-united as family with deeper understanding of them as individuals. All the details we've been missing throughout the first 2 books in the series.

I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to read this concluding novel. The epilogue puts everything into perspective and leaves me with an unusual depth of satisfaction.

Thank you, Jamie, for offering your creative gift for our reading enjoyment.










Thank you to B&H Books for the opportunity to read and review without obligation.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed this conclusion to the Forgotten Castles series. It was really sweet to watch Alexendria and Gabriel working together to find and rescue her parents. And watch as they experienced their sweet honeymoon together---boy, were those two in love!

Full review to come.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A satisfying conclusion to an exciting, adventure-filled series. : )

[Ashley Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slightly disappointing end to this trilogy. It was very strange. I have no other words except strange...

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let me start off by saying it has been a while since I read the first two, but I really don't think that affected my rating or enjoyment. I was able to get into the story right away and pretty much pick up where I left off. I loved that part of the book.

I wasn't too happy with the romance, though. While I loved that the characters were married and how romantic they were to each other (that was really sweet to see!), I do wish some things wouldn't have been so detailed (the first scene, especially). It wasn't overtly graphic, per se, but it was a bit much in my opinion.

There were some fun scenes...the hot air balloon especially. I found that part of the story great and entertaining. The last couple chapters were slightly confusing to me, so I wish things would have been explained a little better.

All in all, though, I liked the book...just not as much as the others in the series.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

[Anastasia ｼ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full Review on NetGalley
The story was never boring and had me turning the pages until the very end.

[Abigail Harris]

Let's see where this review goes first...

[Anncleire · Rating 4 out of 5]

“A duke’s promise” è l’ultimo volume della fantastica trilogia creata dalla penna di Jamie Carie e vi posso assicurare che mi ha tenuta incollata alle pagine fin dall’inizio. Una storia davvero ben congeniata che mi ha risucchiata e resa incredula. Perché lo ammetto ci sono stati momenti in cui mi sono chiesta “Ma che diavolo succede?” ma ne vale la pena perché davvero il libro è meraviglioso.

Il duca di St.Easton Gabriel e Alexandra si sono appena sposati e sono pronti per partire per il loro viaggio di nozze. Quello che il principe reggente non sa è che non sono diretti a Parigi per una romantica figa d’amore ma addirittura in Italia per raggiungere e salvare i genitori di Alex. Molti sono i pericoli che si affastellano lungo la strada e molti i nemici che vogliono mettere le mani sul manoscritto di Augusto da Carrara. Per fortuna che Alex e Gabriel insieme sono un team perfetto, ma riusciranno a salvare se stessi e i due cercatori di tesori? E qual è l’arma ideata dal celebre scultore nei meandri delle cave di Carrara?

La particolarità di questa storia non è solo la sua ambientazione varia e particolareggiata che ci ha portati da un’isola sperduta nel cuore dell’Inghilterra, in Irlanda, sulle coste della Groenlandia per finire sulle colline della Toscana, ma l’intensità della vicenda e del rapporto che si sviluppa tra i due protagonisti. Mai come in questo ultimo volume pur trattandosi di una storia corale che si sviluppa a partire dal punto di vista di più personaggi, i protagonisti indiscussi sono Alex e Gabriel. Sono sempre loro eppure rafforzati nei pregi dei loro caratteri grazie all’unione santa che li accumuna. Molto forte è la componente sacra e cristiana nella storia, di cui la Carie si fa portavoce indiscussa, ma mai come in questo caso crea un’atmosfera quasi irreale, soprattutto nei passaggi fondamentali.
Gabriel continua ad avere problemi di udito e in qualche modo ne scopriamo la causa, perfettamente immaginabile, ma ormai si è fatto scudo della volontà di Dio e ha smesso di lamentarsi, ciò che lo interessa è rendere felice la donna al suo fianco e per il resto non si cura più di nulla, anche il suo udito è secondario. Sempre indomito, con il suo fisico da pantera, con i capelli scuri e gli occhi color smeraldo, induce rispetto e un giusto timore in quelli che lo circondano ma inevitabilmente anche sicurezza e senso di protezione perché è davvero un uomo eccezionale.
Alex è più calma e più consapevole, sa quello che vuole, ma è disposta ad ascoltare il consiglio di chi le è vicina, perché ora capisce che non è più sola. Sempre impulsiva, raccoglie alleanze come si farebbe con dei fiori di campo e si lancia in sfide emozionanti che la rendono estremamente avventuriera. Ma ha Gabriel al suo fianco, che la guida e la protegge.
I genitori di Alex di cui finalmente facciamo la conoscenza mi sono rimasti totalmente indifferenti e devo ammettere che mi aspettavo di più. Scopriamo però perché hanno lasciato Alex sola per gran parte della sua vita e non di può di certo biasimarli più di tanto.
I cattivi sono molti, irrinunciabili e tramano per far fallire i nostri adorati protagonisti, ma Alex e Gabriel sono sempre un passo avanti a loro.
Ma tra gli alleati dei due c’è anche una donna, Sophie, che li impressionerà con la sua mongolfiera e sarà importantissima per il loro viaggio.
E come non citare l’arma del manoscritto? Nulla di quello che mi aspettavo, ma sono rimasta incantata dal modo in cui la Carie ha chiuso il cerchio e ha dato un senso a tutto. Impressionante, realistico e sensato.

Il particolare da non dimenticare? Un diario trovato sotto un letto…perché? Leggete e scopritelo.

Uscito a settembre 2012 questa è la degna fine di una trilogia romantica, avventurosa, ricca di mistero e incredibilmente emozionante. Ho iniziato a leggerla per caso ma me ne sono letteralmente innamorata. Vi consiglio la lettura se vi piacciono i romanzi storici e pieni di pericoli e avventure. Non è semplice trovare una storia che sia degna di essere letta, ma vi assicuro che questa della Carie vale proprio la pena.
Buona lettura guys!


Ringrazio immensamente Netgalley e B&H Publishing Group per avermi dato l’opportunità di leggere questo libro in anteprima in cambio della mia opinione. Thanks a lot!



Recensione anche sul mio blog:
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[Jessica · Rating 1 out of 5]

I tried reading this book. I really did. I wanted to give both the Characters and the author a chance to win me over. They didn't.

I stuck with this series thinking that things would get better. They had to, right? Evidently not.

In book one and two, I found myself disappointed and in this third book, I couldn't even read through the whole first chapter. It starts out with Gabriel and Alexandria in the marriage bed. I had to skim. It was enough detail to make me very uncomfortable. Married women probably wouldn't be bothered by it, but as a single girl, it really wasn't something I wanted my mind focused on. I skimmed through the rest of the book after that, just to see if it was even worth me reading all the way through. I will admit that I was really interested in Gabriel's story but Alexandria was such an unlikeable character that I just didn't have the gumption to keep reading.

This book may have had some redeeming qualities. I'm not sure since I didn't read it past the first chapter. I like to think that Whether the Duke recovered his hearing or not... that Alexandria found redeeming Grace in a restored relationship with Christ. I also assume that they found Alexandria's parents.

I personally just couldn't bring myself to finish this series and I wouldn't recommend it to friends. It had too much filth in it and there weren't enough good things to make me look past that. From what I skimmed through, there didn't seem to be much of anything that stuck out as making it worth the read. The Duke was the only good part of this series and I have to say, I am only more disappointed with Alexandria's character after giving this book a chance.

Let me just add that I don't expect Characters in books (or people in life) to be perfect little Christians. But, if I'm going to read something like this where a character falls so far and makes so many huge mistakes and has such bad judgement, I want to see that, along the way, they are learning from all those mistakes and becoming a better, stronger, Christian - not sinless but aware of God's Grace and striving to live for HIM.

I didn't see that in Alexandria. Even to this last book, she failed to be honest with her, now husband, until after they had become completely man and wife. I hated to see that. I was rooting for her to make the right decision, to tell the duke the truth and be honest but that didn't happen and I have to say, that was probably the biggest reason I decided not to keep reading.

So overall, while I didn't finish this book, I wanted to give a short review of it to let, especially young women, know of the slightly too detailed marriage scene in the beginning and make them aware in case they are uncomortable with reading things like that too. To some, like me, these books may not have been worth the read by the time you get to the end of the series. I'm sure some wouldn't have any problem with the things I've pointed out, but I know that some would and so, for those people, I just wanted to give you a heads up so you could be aware of the issues within this series and final book and decide for yourself whether or not it's something you would be interested in and comfortable with reading..

Personally, I was really disappointed with this series and wished that Alexandria had shown more growth both in her character and in her faith. I won't be recommending this series to my friends.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Duke's Promise: A Forgotten Castles Novel (Forgotten Castles #3)

by Jamie Carie



Reviewed by: Angels

Format:Kindle

Published:B&H Books

Genre: Christian Romance



5 STAR READ

http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-...



Description

A medieval story of love and betrayal.

As a rebellion sweeps England, Lady Annabel finds her home overrun by rebels. Much to her relief, a dark knight comes to her rescue, claiming to have been sent to protect her by her uncle.

But Nicholas holds a secret about the job he was sent to do and it is a far cry from what Annabel believes it to be. As the attraction between them grows, Nicholas begins to question the dark life he has lived. But is it enough to change him and will Annabel ever trust again after learning the true nature of his sinful duty?

My Thoughts and Review

I really enjoyed this series and the conclusion couldn't have been better.I loved the story from beginning to end and the story had a few surprises that I was not expecting Annabel and the Duke to be riding in a hot air balloon to get to where they needed to be.Who would have thought two English gentry taking on such a dangerous adventure ?

This story was not only about finding Lady Annabel's treasure seeking parents but,also the Duke's self discovery and his belief in God and his faith whether he is worthy or not.The story took us on a grand adventure with tons of intrigue with a couple of titled gentry making a lifetime of friends that were considered peasants along there way and a couple working on there relationship that would bring them a lifetime of happiness.

For me I love the characters and there development throughout this story but, I have to say that Annabel was my favorite. She was truly a loving and giving and caring person with such a giving heart to her friends and also absolute strangers never seeking anything in return.She had brilliant mind for problem solving and adventure as It must been in that blood of hers that she must have gotten from her parents. I loved the way she took her Duke on a merry adventure with a bit of danger before she let him catch her !

A true love story.Believing that God put this couple in each others path as they were the Key to solving this mystery that only love for one another and there belief that God was there guiding them on there journey keeping them safe until they solved the mystery and to rescuing Annabel's parents.They needed each other to solve this mystery as both lend-ed a helping hand in saving mankind from destruction from the greedy men in power that this invention would bring.

I loved the whole 3 book series and the conclusion.The story was a page turner giving you love, adventure ,mystery a lots of Intrigue keeping you glued to the pages until you finished it with a smile on your face from time to time.

I recommend this story and its previous stories to this series but, also anything that Jamie Carie has written all of her books I have read have been fabulous reads.

[Kathleen E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thursday, March 28, 2013
A Duke's Promise ~ Book 3, A Forgotten Castles novel by Jamie Carie, ©2012

Award-winning writer Jamie Carie's trilogy comes to a close in this final novel in the Forgotten Castles series. It continues a love story filled with action-filled adventure, determining the trustworthiness of others met during their quest, and prominently, the importance of enduring faith to see them through.

“Revealing Secrets of the Kingdom one story at a time.”

From the Land of Fire and Ice back to England’s shores, Alexandria Featherstone finds herself the new Duchess of St. Easton. Her husband has promised a wedding trip to take them to the place where her imperiled parents were last seen — Italy and the marble caves of Carrara — but a powerful Italian duke plots against Alex and her treasure-hunting parents.
Hoping to save them, Alex and Gabriel travel to Italy by balloon. Fraught with danger on all sides and pressured by Gabriel’s affliction to the breaking point, they must learn to work and fight together. The mysterious key is within their grasp, but they have yet to recognize it. This journey will require steadfast faith in God and each other — a risk that will win them everything they want or lose them everything they have.

Following Books 1 and 2, The Guardian Duke and The Forgiven Duke, Book 3 continues the story of Alexandria and Gabriel as they now venture together to locate Alexandria's parents. A Duke's Promise may be read as a stand-alone novel, continuing their journey as newlyweds.

This fast-paced story takes you on a journey fraught with danger and excitement as this young couple set out together on their honeymoon. To any unsuspecting bystander, they appear just that. Excited to be together, exploring each day in their new surroundings. But it is further than that in their venture. More than one country is wanting the details of the findings of her parents' search for proof of Augusto de Carrara's manuscript, of value to each of them.

It is midsummer, 1819, as Alex and Gabriel leave London by ferry through the Strait of Dover, headed for Calais, France. After a scrimmage, they lose their guards and travel on by horseback to Paris. Their travel plans change as Madame Sophie Blanchard, a solo-flying balloonist, lands there. She agrees to fly them over the Swiss Alps to Italy, their destination in seeking Alex's parents. Arriving in Italy after being airborne, they are met once again by multiple seekers of this hoped for treasure for their country. It is necessary for Gabriel and Alex to learn to listen and work together, as they seek God's plan for them, individually and as a couple, for their journey.

***Thank you to author Jamie Carie for sending me a copy of A Duke's Promise to review in my own words. No other compensation was received.***

[Danica is Booked · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Disclaimers: I received an electronic copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I read the sequel can quickly became enraptured with the characters and the story. I hadn't read the first in the series, something that did bother me, but I didn't feel all that lost. Jamie did a great job at ensuring I always felt like I knew exactly what was going on.

And then she ended her second novel with such a cliff-hanger that I absolutely had to read the third one in the series. I was thrilled to get the chance to read the third and final novel in this series.

This novel picked up right where the second novel ended. Alexandria and Gabriel have just been married, but Alexandria's been keeping secrets from him. She doesn't know if she's a virgin or not, a fact she hasn't told Gabriel and she's terrified of his reaction. Not to mention, her parents are still missing and they have several people who would like nothing better than to have them in their hands.

Yes, definitely an intriguing plot that had me hooked from the beginning. And then there were the characters. I adored all of her characters, especially Alexandria and Gabriel. Yes at times, I wanted to strangle them for being so stupid and yet they were so lovable. Alexandria was so innocent in a cute way that had me laughing and rooting her from the very beginning. And then there was Gabriel. He was just so incredible, plus he put up with all of Alexandria's crazy antics.

They had their flaws and yet they were so cute together. I loved watching them interact with one another and I loved their determination to save Alexandria's parents.

The story was never boring and had me turning the pages until the very end. I loved everything about this book, but it lacked that extra something to make this one of my favorites. However, having said that, don't get me wrong. I thoroughly adored this novel. Carrie has a unique writing style that is incredible. Definitely recommend to fans of Christian fiction and historical fiction or to fans who love daring characters who aren't afraid to set out on amusing adventures.

An author that I will be keeping tabs on.

In Summary: Jamie Carrie's novel will not disappoint readers. Full of enough action, romance, and mystery to leave me thoroughly intrigued. This one will leave readers turning the pages faster and faster until the very end.

The Wrap-up: A beautiful book that I'm thrilled I read. Jamie Carrie crafted a brilliant novel with an all-star cast that left me thoroughly amused and entertained. Another strong showing for Carrie.

Love,

Danica Page

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jamie Carie in her new book, “A Duke’s Promise” Book Three in the Forgotten Castles series published by B&H Publishing Group takes us back to Medieval England in 1819.

From the back cover: From the Land of Fire and Ice back to England’s shores, Alexandria Featherstone finds herself the new Duchess of St. Easton. Her husband has promised a wedding trip to take them to the place where her imperiled parents were last seen — Italy and the marble caves of Carrara.

But a powerful Italian duke plots against Alex and her treasure-hunting parents.

Hoping to save them, Alex and Gabriel travel to Italy by balloon. Fraught with danger on all sides and pressured by Gabriel’s affliction to the breaking point, they must learn to work and fight together. The mysterious key is within their grasp, but they have yet to recognize it. This journey will require steadfast faith in God and each other.

It’s a risk that will lead them to win them everything they want or lose everything they have.

While it is possible to read this book first and Ms. Carie does an excellent job of getting you up to speed I really recommend reading the preceding books of this series, “The Guardian Duke” and “The Forgiven Duke”, first as there is quite a lot of story you will be missing. The quest is on and this time both Alexandria and Gabriel are hunting for her missing parents. In addition they are searching for a manuscript with instructions for a weapon to rule the world. There is a very powerful villain that wants to stop them permanently and acquire this manuscript for himself. A hot air balloon journey, and marble caves, this is the stuff of high adventure. ”A Duke’s Promise” is a thriller in that both Alexandria and Gabriel’s lives are in deadly danger practically from the first page. This book is a wonderful adventure filled with great characters that we have come to love and root for. I am sorry to see this series end but look forward to more from the pen of Jamie Carie.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from B&H Publishing Group. 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.”

[Christie Hagerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Duke's Promis is the third book in the Forgotten Castles series. We pick up right where the second one ends, just after the wedding of Gabriel, the wealthy duke of St. Easton, and the young lady he's been guarding for the past year, Alexandra. Alex is the daughter of the Featherstones, famous adventurers who neve returned from their latest treasure hunt and are now presumed dead. The duke, Gabriel, has promised that they will find and rescue her parents as soon as they can escape the watchful eye of the guards assigned to them by the throne.

The new couple find themselves further entangled in a web of competition between European powers for a manuscript that describes how to make a powerful war machine. They are being pursued at every turn, but must remain focused if they have any hope of finding this manuscript or Alex's missing parents. And if being hunted down by several different countries isn't enough, the newlyweds must also deal with Gabriel's deafness, Alex's issues over the years her parents abandoned her, and a powerful man who is obsessed with the Featherstone women.

I enjoyed the twists and turns in this romance, the mysteries and danger. Of course, the love story was pretty over-the-top at times, but looming secrets and trust issues between the lovebirds kept their relationship from being "too" perfect. Apart from the main story line, there were beautiful depictions of God's love, as well as interesting scientific information. An added section at the end makes the connection between historical facts and the treasure the fictional Featherstones sought. Without giving away too much of the book, let me add that some of the content was too mature for my teen daughters, especially as it pertained to an attack on Alex in the second book and the man obsessed with owning and "having his way" with the women. For that reason, this book won't be added to my girls' shelf, but I'd recommend it for more mature readers.

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

An epic ending to a loveable trilogy.

A Duke’s Promise is the third and final book in Jamie Carie’s Forgotten Castles series. If you have not read the first two books in the series then I would highly suggest that you do. Some series can get away with not being read in order (though I ALWAYS read series in order) but this series is definitely one that you will want to read in order so that you can better understand what is happening.

A Duke’s Promise begins right after Alex and Gabriel are married. Whoa, steamy wedding night! I think I found myself blushing a little.
Alex and Gabriel are happy to be married at last. Though Alex is still haunted by her parent’s disappearance and so when Alex and Gabriel set off for their honeymoon, they intend to search for her parents. Despite the danger that they continually run into, Alex and Gabriel persist in their quest.

Will Alex finally find her parents? Are her parents even still alive? Will Alex and Gabriel’s new love be tested already? All of these questions will be answered in the final chapter of this trilogy.
I have loved this series. I love the time period, the setting, the characters, the romance, the adventure. Each step of these books will bring you to the edge of your seat, quickly turning pages to see how everything will be resolved. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone looking for an enchanting romance filled with adventure.

I received a free ebook copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I received no compensation for this review nor was I required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.

Leah B.
Must Love Books
mustlovereading.wordpress.com

[I'd So Rather Be Reading {Nat} · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great series this has turned out to be! If you can read the three books in a row, I greatly recommend that. Book one, The Guardian Duke, has such an open ending that you will be left screaming in frustration if you don't have book two immediately available to you. Book two, The Forgiven Duke, has more closure but still some openness, setting things up perfectly for book three.

The Forgotten Castles series kept getting better and better with each book! I was totally in love with Gabriel by the beginning of book two, and by the end of the series, he is one of my favorite leading men. I love reading about a healthy, faith-based relationship like Gabriel and Alex's. They are so united in their quest to find Alex's parents, and I love how Gabriel makes the promise to her that he will not stop looking for them until they are found.

There was a lot of character growth in this book, which I love. I love watching characters grow personally and grow in their faith. The Christian element to this book is subtly handled, and should not be a deterrent to those who don't usually read Christian fiction.

I loved the ending, especially the epilogue. I absolutely adore getting a glimpse into favorite characters' happily ever afters and Carie provided this with aplomb. It was exactly the kind of ending I had hoped for, and it was so gratifying to see my hopes and dreams for Alex and Gabriel to come to pass.

I am so happy to have found Jamie Carie. Her writing is smart, emotional, and fast-paced. I love how she can create a powerful love story without a bunch of smut. I especially love the historical aspect to her work. Highly recommended!

[Rachelle Sperling · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Duke's Promise is book three in the Forgotten Castles series.

The first thing you need to know is that the books in this series do not stand alone. Book One: The Guardian Duke, is a to-be-continued cliffhanger. Book Two: The Forgiven Duke, won't be fully understood without reading the first book. And Book Three: A Duke's Promise, also enters into the middle of a story. While the author fills in the background information from the other novels I don't believe that the novel is compelling enough to stand on its own.

The Guardian Duke contains several interesting elements. The main characters continue to travel the world and introduce us to new settings. There is the continuing mystery of the treasure that they are seeking. There are some new quirky characters and you finally get to meet Alex's parents, but overall the book seemed to be mostly about tying up loose ends. The author tried to introduce new tension with a new villain, but the novel felt a bit like a downhill race. All of the tension and buildup occurred in the first two novels and in A Duke's Promise some of the character's struggles started to feel a bit repetitive. Also I, personally, did not appreciate the detail given to the villain's lust.

I would have been disappointed in this book if it stood alone, but A Duke's Promise, was a solid conclusion when considered in light of the whole series.

My overview of the series:

The Guardian Duke: 5 stars
The Forgiven Duke: 5 stars
A Duke's Promise: 3 stars

Overall series: 4 stars

I received a free digital galley of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion.

[My Book Addiction and More MBA · Rating 4 out of 5]

A DUKE’S PROMISE by Jamie Carie is an wonderful historical romance set which begins in England and continues throughout France and Italy. It is book #3 in the “A Forgotten Castles” series,but can be read as a stand alone. See,”The Guardian Duke”,and “The Forgiven Duke”. Follow Alex and Gabriel on the conclusion of the “Forgotten Castles” as they navigate from England,to France and Italy on what is supposed to be their honeymoon,but where they actually search for her missing parents. It is fast paced,adventure filled,with twists and turns you will not see coming. While England,Spain,and France all want Alex’s parents(treasure hunters) to discover what they believe to be a mass weapon of destruction,Alex and Gabriel must cross three countries,stay alive and out of harm’s way as they try to save the “Featherstone’s”. This has been an exciting series. It has faith,romance,love,forgiveness,danger,passion,discovery,healing, finding peace and contentment. A must read for anyone who enjoys historical romance,France,Italy,discoveries,and treasure hunting. A true treasure! Ms. Carie pulls her readers into her stories with engaging characters and intriguing plots. “A Duke’s Promise” is a wonderful conclusion to the fascinating and intriguing story of finding oneself,discovering true love,learning the true nature of one’s parents. Received for an honest review from Net Galley and the publisher. Details can be found at the author’s website,B & H Books,and My Book Addiction and More.

RATING: 4.5

HEAT RATING: SWEET

REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews

[Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this finish to the Forgotten Castles series! As always, I loved the contrasting yet totally complimentary personalities of Alexandria and Gabriel, and being able to read the novel hearing both of their perspectives.
My only caution is that this book particularly has quite a lot of the romance that I roll my eyes at and skip over, but so much so that it was a little too much at times, even for me at 17. I would suggest then that readers hold off on this until they're really ready for it.
Oh, I forgot to mention my favorite part! One thing that I have really enjoyed throughout the whole series is how wonderfully Christian the author is, and how she is so unafraid to infuse that deeply held belief in varying degrees into each of her characters! I absolutely agree and have loved pretty much everything that the characters have thought, reflected, felt, and said regarding faith and true Christianity. I also love that the author kept it traditional, and quoted from the King James Version of the Bible. Thank you so much, Mrs. Carie, for strengthening my faith in expressing your own!

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was not my favorite of the trilogy. I feel like this series could've easily been a long single novel or just a duo.

I never really grew to like Alex's mom. She was just too cold and hard and I wanted that to change. She was way to "Meh, whatever" about the situation with the Italian Duke. I wanted her to put up way more of a fight, at least for Ian's sake. I also kind of wanted a prolouge about her - did she soften? Did she find her Faith in God? Did she let Ian make her happy on Holy Island or did she make him feel guilty and horrible for the rest of their lives?

The wedding night scene was just a little too much for me. I prefer my lovin' a little bit more behind closed doors, if ya'know what I'm sayin'. I mean, it wasn't anything bodice ripper worthy, but it was more than I like to read. Call me a prude, but whatever. At least it was just the one scene.

I guess those were my two big beefs with this final book. I am glad I finished it though. It's nice to wrap things up nice and tidy-like.

Oh, one more thing. The "weapon"...totally cheesy. That's all.

[Tia · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a 3.5 read for me.

I skimmed a lot towards the end. There was so much of the smallest detail/description given. It became taxing. I felt let down. Waiting after two books for an outcome, I felt, was anticlimactic as well as uneventful. Also, I thought there would be more depth with the reuniting of Alex and her Mom. After reading how Alex felt that Mrs. Featherstone never bothered to be present.

However, the love and dedication the Duke and Duchess have for one another and Alex for her parents is admirable. I enjoyed the tender moments shared by Alex and Gabriel. Watching Gabriel deal with the loss of his sight, at times, was heart breaking but enlightening. Through this journey of searching for Mr. And Mrs. Featherstone, Alex and Gabriel had amassed many intriguing and unique friends that aided in the development of the story. All in all this third installment was an enjoyable read, not the conclusion I was hoping for, but a good story nonetheless .

I would like to thank Netgalley and B&H Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Melanie · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is the third and last book in the Forgotten Castles series; book one, ‘The Guardian Duke’ and book two, ‘The Forgiven Duke’ must be read before you read this third installment. None of the books are stand alone, unless you read the first one which ends in a cliffhanger.

I liked the first one very much, then I was very disappointed in the second one, and that disappointment extended to this third book as well.

I did find the character of Gabriel Ravenwood, Duke of St Easton well written and three-dimensional, but the heroine, Alexandria, I found to be only two-dimensional and not much likable.

Plot wise I found the first book somewhat believable and inspirational, while the second and the third I thought just too far-fetched and despite action, intrigue and lukewarm romance, I found it totally unbelievable.

These three books should have never offered to the readers as a series, but as one book. I believe it would have read better and wouldn’t feel forced and rushed.

I honestly wouldn’t recommend it or the series.

Melanie for b2b