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The Curse of the Templars #4
Immortal Sacrifice
In the wake of an Italian mobster’s death, the archangels charge Immortal Templar Knight Caradoc of Asterleigh with protecting a necklace that contains Christ’s tears. He vows to bring the relic home, never imagining he’ll have to battle Isabelle Speranza, the only woman he’s ever loved and whom he left in a futile attempt to protect her heart. Discovering she’s his fated seraph changes everything. For the dark lord Azazel is hunting the Templar mates.
Isabelle lost her heart to Caradoc in a whirlwind affair abroad, only to be abandoned in the middle of the night. When she encounters Caradoc in Sicily three years later, her buried anger fuels desire that won’t be denied. Yet a dark shadow threatens their reunion. Azazel has discovered her greatest weakness, and her dreams promise unspeakable horrors if she fails to procure the sacred necklace.
As danger stalks her, Isabelle reveals an unbelievable secret. To save them both, Caradoc must accept her truths, even if it means turning from everything he’s sworn to uphold.
Isabelle lost her heart to Caradoc in a whirlwind affair abroad, only to be abandoned in the middle of the night. When she encounters Caradoc in Sicily three years later, her buried anger fuels desire that won’t be denied. Yet a dark shadow threatens their reunion. Azazel has discovered her greatest weakness, and her dreams promise unspeakable horrors if she fails to procure the sacred necklace.
As danger stalks her, Isabelle reveals an unbelievable secret. To save them both, Caradoc must accept her truths, even if it means turning from everything he’s sworn to uphold.
- GenresParanormal Romance
280 pages, ebook
First published January 20, 2014
About the author
Claire Ashgrove
39 books125 followersClaire Ashgrove has been writing since her early teens and maintained the hobby for twenty years before deciding to leap into the professional world. Her first contemporary novel, Seduction's Stakes, sold to The Wild Rose Press in 2008, where she continues to write steamy, sexy stories for the Champagne and Black Rose lines. Adding to these critically acclaimed contemporaries, Claire’s paranormal romance series, The Curse of the Templars, will debut with Tor in January 2012. For those who prefer the more erotic side of romance, she also writes for Berkley Heat under the pen name Tori St. Claire.
Claire lives on a small farm in Missouri with her two toddler sons, fifteen horses, four cats, and five dogs. In her “free” time, she enjoys cooking, winning at rummy, studying ancient civilizations, and spending quiet moments with her family, including the critters. She credits her success to her family's constant support and endless patience.
To learn more about Claire, visit her on the web at www.ClaireAshgrove.com, or www.ToriStClaire.com
Claire lives on a small farm in Missouri with her two toddler sons, fifteen horses, four cats, and five dogs. In her “free” time, she enjoys cooking, winning at rummy, studying ancient civilizations, and spending quiet moments with her family, including the critters. She credits her success to her family's constant support and endless patience.
To learn more about Claire, visit her on the web at www.ClaireAshgrove.com, or www.ToriStClaire.com
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 22, 2014
An ongoing saga of cursed Templar Knights, the women who can bring them salvation from their curse, the growing evil they battle and the hope of one lone prophecy just makes for some of the best reading I can find. It was so hard to be patient for this latest installment after the ending on that last one.
Each book has charged off in a different direction it seems shattering even the possibility of a dreary formulaic plot. Yes, there is the race to recover the relics, there is the knight, there is his seraph, and there is the clash with evil, but- yes but- there is a whole lot more going on. Each knight and seraph's struggle is different and each time evil is confronted no matter how much I try to anticipate the end, I still get a surprise.
Speaking of all the books, this is not a series that can be read out of order. Each book links to the one before it with less and less worldbuilding in the newer ones since the assumption is made that the reader has read what went on before. There are also spoilers to the previous romances and plots that would probably just leave the reader confused and out in left field if they jumped the gun. So yeah, moral of the story...read in order.
In this story which is Caradoc's turn, he is given a reunion romance. Caradoc spent three weeks in the arms of the woman he loved and she loved him, but he left her without a word or note. He knew she was not his seraph so he could not be with her. Three years later on a mission with Tane and Gareth, he is in Sicily at an auction to recover a necklace that contains Christ's Tears. The Templars must retrieve it before Azazael at all costs. He turns around when he smells a familiar scent and is confronted by the woman he never stopped loving even after he left her. Her eyes are full of pain and hate.
Isobel can barely keep it together when she stands before Caradoc for the first time since he walked away from her. He broke her heart and never looked back. Her dreams of the future revealed that they would eventually meet again so she prepared a speech that would tell him of all that she felt for what he had done. Unfortunately, being confronted by the reality and the honest expression of remorse and pain in his eyes leaves her without words. She is angry and she is hurting, but she is there for a purpose- bidding on the unusual diamond necklace that her buyer wants at all costs and her child's freedom hinges on her success. Eventually, she will have to deal with Caradoc who is relentless in pursuing her so they can talk and they need to, but not now. Besides, this time she plans to be the one to walk away.
And I'm going to stop there with the summary because I don't want to spoil even one of the plot twists and reveals. Truthfully, most of the secrets are out on the table early, but the people holding the secrets clutch them close so the reader is the only one who sees it as a whole. And let me tell you, that is a twitchy situation to be in. I was guilty of muttering 'tell him' or 'tell her' or 'tell them' quite a bit of the time and figuratively biting my nails to see how it was all going to play out with the hero and heroine in the dark, but the evil guy kept completely apprised of all the pertinent intel.
Caradoc and Isobel had to work through all the pain he caused when he left her plus they both had secrets they needed to reveal. It was a slow and agonizing path at first and it needed to be to be believable. I loved that he owned to it all and accepted her hate, hurt and doubt in him while working hard to prove that he deserved forgiveness. Isobel was fiercely angry at first and had to let all that out, but through it all she never stopped loving Caradoc. I felt so badly for both of them and not once did I get impatient with the process because the pace of things was actually slow by fictional standards and for that level of hurt it takes time. This being said, the passion was still there. Dealing with the physical side was no solution to matters, but it gave them time to set the hard stuff aside and take it up after.
I was relieved when after some time, Caradoc looked her in the eye and asked her, "Have you ever made a mistake?" For me this was 'put up or shut up' time. Caradoc messed up and he knew it and was trying to show with action and word that he wanted a final chance, but ultimately it was on Isobel if she could look toward the future instead of the past. There was a very hard scene where she throws a lot of stuff at him that as the reader I knew wasn't true and he didn't deserve. I hated it, but was glad for it because I got to see her- after realizing the truth and knowing she had just spewed all sorts of awful- vulnerable and open just like Caradoc had been to her all along. It meant that if they could get past it; they would start on equal footing in a future together.
This one left things in an interesting place. Not a cliffhanger, just a nice little bit of tension to keep me wanting the next book. I enjoyed the brief peek-ins with the other characters and got the biggest grin on my face over the surprise of Merrick and Anne.
This series is for those who would enjoy spicy and exciting paranormal romance involving angels and demons along with brave Knights and their ladies in modern times.
My thanks to the author for providing the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Each book has charged off in a different direction it seems shattering even the possibility of a dreary formulaic plot. Yes, there is the race to recover the relics, there is the knight, there is his seraph, and there is the clash with evil, but- yes but- there is a whole lot more going on. Each knight and seraph's struggle is different and each time evil is confronted no matter how much I try to anticipate the end, I still get a surprise.
Speaking of all the books, this is not a series that can be read out of order. Each book links to the one before it with less and less worldbuilding in the newer ones since the assumption is made that the reader has read what went on before. There are also spoilers to the previous romances and plots that would probably just leave the reader confused and out in left field if they jumped the gun. So yeah, moral of the story...read in order.
In this story which is Caradoc's turn, he is given a reunion romance. Caradoc spent three weeks in the arms of the woman he loved and she loved him, but he left her without a word or note. He knew she was not his seraph so he could not be with her. Three years later on a mission with Tane and Gareth, he is in Sicily at an auction to recover a necklace that contains Christ's Tears. The Templars must retrieve it before Azazael at all costs. He turns around when he smells a familiar scent and is confronted by the woman he never stopped loving even after he left her. Her eyes are full of pain and hate.
Isobel can barely keep it together when she stands before Caradoc for the first time since he walked away from her. He broke her heart and never looked back. Her dreams of the future revealed that they would eventually meet again so she prepared a speech that would tell him of all that she felt for what he had done. Unfortunately, being confronted by the reality and the honest expression of remorse and pain in his eyes leaves her without words. She is angry and she is hurting, but she is there for a purpose- bidding on the unusual diamond necklace that her buyer wants at all costs and her child's freedom hinges on her success. Eventually, she will have to deal with Caradoc who is relentless in pursuing her so they can talk and they need to, but not now. Besides, this time she plans to be the one to walk away.
And I'm going to stop there with the summary because I don't want to spoil even one of the plot twists and reveals. Truthfully, most of the secrets are out on the table early, but the people holding the secrets clutch them close so the reader is the only one who sees it as a whole. And let me tell you, that is a twitchy situation to be in. I was guilty of muttering 'tell him' or 'tell her' or 'tell them' quite a bit of the time and figuratively biting my nails to see how it was all going to play out with the hero and heroine in the dark, but the evil guy kept completely apprised of all the pertinent intel.
Caradoc and Isobel had to work through all the pain he caused when he left her plus they both had secrets they needed to reveal. It was a slow and agonizing path at first and it needed to be to be believable. I loved that he owned to it all and accepted her hate, hurt and doubt in him while working hard to prove that he deserved forgiveness. Isobel was fiercely angry at first and had to let all that out, but through it all she never stopped loving Caradoc. I felt so badly for both of them and not once did I get impatient with the process because the pace of things was actually slow by fictional standards and for that level of hurt it takes time. This being said, the passion was still there. Dealing with the physical side was no solution to matters, but it gave them time to set the hard stuff aside and take it up after.
I was relieved when after some time, Caradoc looked her in the eye and asked her, "Have you ever made a mistake?" For me this was 'put up or shut up' time. Caradoc messed up and he knew it and was trying to show with action and word that he wanted a final chance, but ultimately it was on Isobel if she could look toward the future instead of the past. There was a very hard scene where she throws a lot of stuff at him that as the reader I knew wasn't true and he didn't deserve. I hated it, but was glad for it because I got to see her- after realizing the truth and knowing she had just spewed all sorts of awful- vulnerable and open just like Caradoc had been to her all along. It meant that if they could get past it; they would start on equal footing in a future together.
This one left things in an interesting place. Not a cliffhanger, just a nice little bit of tension to keep me wanting the next book. I enjoyed the brief peek-ins with the other characters and got the biggest grin on my face over the surprise of Merrick and Anne.
This series is for those who would enjoy spicy and exciting paranormal romance involving angels and demons along with brave Knights and their ladies in modern times.
My thanks to the author for providing the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2014
This is actually the 5th installment of the Templar story. There are three novels before this and a Novella Before I go any further with this review, I would recommend that they all be read, in the correct order, so that you get the most from this ongoing story.
The Knights Templar fought in the holy land, with their leader Hughes De Payens. 9 Templars followed Hughes, and dug beneath the Temple Mount, unearthing something that the Almighty forces felt man did not need to see. These knights were cursed to fight Azazel and darkness eternally, until they succumbed to that very darkness, and became evil. BUT, they may see salvation, yet.
The prophecy is that the 6 Templars who were the original ones to go to the Temple Mount with Hughes De Payens would receive their Seraphs first. ( A Seraph is a reincarnation of the Nephilim, angels who chose to become human). They will be the salvation of the rest of the Templars. Caradoc was one of those remaining 6.
Isabelle and Caradoc met three/four years ago, when Caradoc went back to Europe to say a final goodbye to his beloved home Asterleigh ( or what was left of it). They had a whirlwind affair, and Isabelle was in love with Caradoc. But Caradoc knew that it would not be fair to Isabelle to lead her on, especially if his Seraph was out there, somewhere. So he left her, without a proper goodbye.
The Tears of Christ, hidden in an exquisite diamond gemstone necklace, are up for auction. Mikhail has decreed that Caradoc, and Tane go to Europe, along with Gareth, and bid on the necklace, along with other minor relics. But they must get the necklace, at all costs. Imagine Caradoc's surprise to find that he is bidding against Isabelle. The Templars must get this relic, because if Azazel gets it, he can activate the spear from the crucifiction with the tears. Without really spoiling anything, yes, she is Caradoc's Seraph. But can they get over the fact that Isabelle has a secret, that she has kept from Caradoc for 3 long years? And it is a big secret. And can the Tears be kept from Azazel? Each time a Seraph has been found, a relic has been involved. And they ended up losing the Relic that they fought so hard to save.
The book was well-written, and the plot was really good. Tane has been given a chance to redeem himself, and the other Seraphs are finally getting to see a little action with their men. There is mention of Sophie, Anne's sister in the book, and the fact that she is finally ready to be presented as a Seraph.
If you are looking for a historical accounting of the Knights Templar, don't look here. This is a fictional account of what happened to them. Again, I would highly recommend that these books be read in order. The series order is: Immortal Hope, Immortal Surrender, Immortal Protector ( a novella), and Immortal Trust.
The Knights Templar fought in the holy land, with their leader Hughes De Payens. 9 Templars followed Hughes, and dug beneath the Temple Mount, unearthing something that the Almighty forces felt man did not need to see. These knights were cursed to fight Azazel and darkness eternally, until they succumbed to that very darkness, and became evil. BUT, they may see salvation, yet.
The prophecy is that the 6 Templars who were the original ones to go to the Temple Mount with Hughes De Payens would receive their Seraphs first. ( A Seraph is a reincarnation of the Nephilim, angels who chose to become human). They will be the salvation of the rest of the Templars. Caradoc was one of those remaining 6.
Isabelle and Caradoc met three/four years ago, when Caradoc went back to Europe to say a final goodbye to his beloved home Asterleigh ( or what was left of it). They had a whirlwind affair, and Isabelle was in love with Caradoc. But Caradoc knew that it would not be fair to Isabelle to lead her on, especially if his Seraph was out there, somewhere. So he left her, without a proper goodbye.
The Tears of Christ, hidden in an exquisite diamond gemstone necklace, are up for auction. Mikhail has decreed that Caradoc, and Tane go to Europe, along with Gareth, and bid on the necklace, along with other minor relics. But they must get the necklace, at all costs. Imagine Caradoc's surprise to find that he is bidding against Isabelle. The Templars must get this relic, because if Azazel gets it, he can activate the spear from the crucifiction with the tears. Without really spoiling anything, yes, she is Caradoc's Seraph. But can they get over the fact that Isabelle has a secret, that she has kept from Caradoc for 3 long years? And it is a big secret. And can the Tears be kept from Azazel? Each time a Seraph has been found, a relic has been involved. And they ended up losing the Relic that they fought so hard to save.
The book was well-written, and the plot was really good. Tane has been given a chance to redeem himself, and the other Seraphs are finally getting to see a little action with their men. There is mention of Sophie, Anne's sister in the book, and the fact that she is finally ready to be presented as a Seraph.
If you are looking for a historical accounting of the Knights Templar, don't look here. This is a fictional account of what happened to them. Again, I would highly recommend that these books be read in order. The series order is: Immortal Hope, Immortal Surrender, Immortal Protector ( a novella), and Immortal Trust.
January 20, 2014
My Rating: 4.5-5
Traveling to Sicily to obtain a rare relic that the Order needs, Caradoc never thought he would run into Isabelle, a lover from his past. Caradoc and Isabelle spent almost a month together three years ago loving and learning each other. Isabelle wakes one morning to an empty bed with no note or anything from Caradoc. For three long years she has nursed a broken heart but she did have one bright spot in her life, their daughter, who Caradoc knows nothing about. With help from two of his brothers, Caradoc does what he can to win over Isabelle and get her forgiveness. Explaining why he had to leave her all those years ago is not easy, but due to their daughter's gifts she believes what he tells her, even though when she tells him of their child he denies he could ever be her father. Caradoc has no idea that the mated Knights can father children, yet he is her father.
When the truth comes out about who Isabelle is working for to get the same relic as Caradoc, they both do anything in their means to save their daughter. Azazel wants to take over the world and needs the necklace that Caradoc and Isabelle have. This necklace holds the tears of Christ. Knights and their mates come to help fight against Azazel and Caradoc learns the truth about his daughter.
I love this series, I can't pinpoint one thing about it that I can say is "that,... that right there is why I love this series", it's everything combined. Complete emotions come off the pages for me, I feel the heartache and love while reading this series.
Traveling to Sicily to obtain a rare relic that the Order needs, Caradoc never thought he would run into Isabelle, a lover from his past. Caradoc and Isabelle spent almost a month together three years ago loving and learning each other. Isabelle wakes one morning to an empty bed with no note or anything from Caradoc. For three long years she has nursed a broken heart but she did have one bright spot in her life, their daughter, who Caradoc knows nothing about. With help from two of his brothers, Caradoc does what he can to win over Isabelle and get her forgiveness. Explaining why he had to leave her all those years ago is not easy, but due to their daughter's gifts she believes what he tells her, even though when she tells him of their child he denies he could ever be her father. Caradoc has no idea that the mated Knights can father children, yet he is her father.
When the truth comes out about who Isabelle is working for to get the same relic as Caradoc, they both do anything in their means to save their daughter. Azazel wants to take over the world and needs the necklace that Caradoc and Isabelle have. This necklace holds the tears of Christ. Knights and their mates come to help fight against Azazel and Caradoc learns the truth about his daughter.
I love this series, I can't pinpoint one thing about it that I can say is "that,... that right there is why I love this series", it's everything combined. Complete emotions come off the pages for me, I feel the heartache and love while reading this series.
January 24, 2014
If you are already a fan of Claire Ashgrove's Templars, this story won't disappoint you! This time focusing on Caradoc of Asterleigh. Caradoc is given the task of acquiring and protecting a diamond necklace, that contains the tears of Christ. What Caradoc doesn't know is that also charged with this task, but for a totally different reason is Isabelle Speranza. As an added bonus, Caradoc and Isabelle have a bit of, shall we say--history! Both of them have their secrets, which they will need to share with each other, if there is any hope at all of preventing Azazel from succeeding in his mission!
In Caradoc and Isabelle, Claire has given us a wonderful story full of secrets,and more than a few misunderstandings between this Knight and his Seraph, which makes the story even better in my eyes!
In Caradoc and Isabelle, Claire has given us a wonderful story full of secrets,and more than a few misunderstandings between this Knight and his Seraph, which makes the story even better in my eyes!
January 27, 2014
Bravo! Best one in the series so far Claire Ashgrove! Caradoc has rocked my world in the Templar Knights series. The truths told to the Knights when they were recruited for their mission was needed at that time. Now that the seraphs are being found and mated with their knights, truths are starting to come out. Can't wait for the next!
January 19, 2014
5*s
review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Even though I have loved each and every book in this series, Immortal Sacrifice is in a class of its own, the best yet and definitely my favourite. If you are a fan of the series then you will have been waiting for this Knight to find his Seraph and be saved……..because Carodoc is about to find his jewel
Whence comes the teacher, she who is blind shall follow.
The one who digs in dust precedes the finding of the jewel.
And she who understands the sword precludes the greatest loyalty.
When darkness rapes the land, the seraphs shall purify the Templar
and lead the sacred swords to victory.
- Ancient Prophecy of the Knights Templar
Three years ago, before the seraphs arrived, Carodoc of Asterleigh spent a blissful three weeks with a woman that he thought would always hold his heart. With the arrival of the seraphs came the knowledge that one day, his would come and he would have to give up this lady – Isabelle Speranza – and rather than drag out the inevitable, with a heavy heart, he chose to leave her. Little did he know, that she wasn’t all he left behind….
Fast forward three years and along with Gareth & Tane, Caradoc is in Sicily to attend an auction event that holds many holy relics that the church wants back in its possession and none more so important that a diamond necklace that holds the tears of Christ. He isn’t the only one interested however; Isabelle Speranza is in Sicily on business too, acquiring antiques for buyers is her livelihood and knowing she has unlimited funds for one specific purchase is going to make this a piece of cake…..until the phone call that changes everything, until the dreams that have been plaguing her for months, until she casts eyes on him again…..Caradoc, the man who broke her heart.
Carodoc is stunned to see Isabelle again, not a day goes by that he doesn’t think of her and he’s about to find out why…. Because Isabelle is his Seraph….but will this revelation change things when Isabelle can’t let go of the past or reveal the secrets closest to her heart?
As I mentioned above, I seriously loved this instalment, it’s like Claire Ashgrove actually went in my head and plucked some of my favourite plot details and stuck them in this book. At the prologue - I was interested…chapter one - I was amused….chapter two – I was hooked! In a big way because what happens is one of my favourite plot lines EVER and guaranteed to be a page turner, I can’t even mention it because it would spoil the surprise but let’s just say, something very special has been kept from someone & is put at risk as Azazel ups the stakes again and proves why he holds his crown as evil incarnate. It was great to finally get to Carodoc’s book, he has made an impression from book one and was on my list of favourites so when I saw his name, I read it with a smile and that just got bigger as the story went on especially when we meet Isabelle and find out that he knew her and they had already had a relationship. It brought something new to the book that hadn’t been done in previous books and there was no awkwardness about getting the lady to love the Knight because the history was already there so it was just a matter of discovering each other again and reconnecting, not that that came without complications because Carodoc did a lot of damage when he left. I always love the clash of old fashioned views & modern ways but I didn’t even feel it this time, Carodoc came across as well adjusted to women of the modern world with only minor problems. They made a lovely couple though, it was so easy to connect to their characters, particularly Isabelle because of the turmoil she was going through and as always, I was routing for them at every turn.
The storyline was awesome! Yes, it was about protecting the relic from reaching Azazel’s hands and yes, it was about the pairing of a Knight & his Seraph to save his soul but the getting there was fraught with a rollercoaster of danger, risk & emotion that made one hell of a ride. It’s so hard not to spoil it for anyone because this plot is very much based upon one huge secret, so to give that away would really spoil it. I will tell you that I loved that the danger became more sinister, that the stakes were more personal, I loved that our couple had history, I loved Isabelle’s gift and how that played into the story and even though she had some huge skeletons in her closet, I loved that too because they were the best kind of secrets and she wasn’t the only one keeping them. We are even kept up to date with all of our favourite Knights & Seraphs, revealing some happy insights and some startling insights which will definitely be felt throughout the whole order and we even get to see the Knights & Seraphs working together in the field, which I had been hoping for since the Seraphs arrived. It definitely had a different feel to it, like things are changing, it feels like the Knights are ‘finding their feet’ and gaining ground against evil – tentatively - but at the same time, evil is upping the stakes and you can feel it all heading towards a critical point where the prophecy becomes real and Azazel’s power play is thwarted and I personally cannot wait! 5*s
Ps - It always amuses me how all of the Knights retain their original accents and even though it’s centuries later I can personally attest to the fact that people still do talk similarly, particularly when Caradoc says ‘aye’ for yes because that’s what I say where I’m from and also Declan, a lot of his broad Scottish words are still used today so for all it may seem old, it has stood the test of time.
review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Even though I have loved each and every book in this series, Immortal Sacrifice is in a class of its own, the best yet and definitely my favourite. If you are a fan of the series then you will have been waiting for this Knight to find his Seraph and be saved……..because Carodoc is about to find his jewel
Whence comes the teacher, she who is blind shall follow.
The one who digs in dust precedes the finding of the jewel.
And she who understands the sword precludes the greatest loyalty.
When darkness rapes the land, the seraphs shall purify the Templar
and lead the sacred swords to victory.
- Ancient Prophecy of the Knights Templar
Three years ago, before the seraphs arrived, Carodoc of Asterleigh spent a blissful three weeks with a woman that he thought would always hold his heart. With the arrival of the seraphs came the knowledge that one day, his would come and he would have to give up this lady – Isabelle Speranza – and rather than drag out the inevitable, with a heavy heart, he chose to leave her. Little did he know, that she wasn’t all he left behind….
Fast forward three years and along with Gareth & Tane, Caradoc is in Sicily to attend an auction event that holds many holy relics that the church wants back in its possession and none more so important that a diamond necklace that holds the tears of Christ. He isn’t the only one interested however; Isabelle Speranza is in Sicily on business too, acquiring antiques for buyers is her livelihood and knowing she has unlimited funds for one specific purchase is going to make this a piece of cake…..until the phone call that changes everything, until the dreams that have been plaguing her for months, until she casts eyes on him again…..Caradoc, the man who broke her heart.
Carodoc is stunned to see Isabelle again, not a day goes by that he doesn’t think of her and he’s about to find out why…. Because Isabelle is his Seraph….but will this revelation change things when Isabelle can’t let go of the past or reveal the secrets closest to her heart?
As I mentioned above, I seriously loved this instalment, it’s like Claire Ashgrove actually went in my head and plucked some of my favourite plot details and stuck them in this book. At the prologue - I was interested…chapter one - I was amused….chapter two – I was hooked! In a big way because what happens is one of my favourite plot lines EVER and guaranteed to be a page turner, I can’t even mention it because it would spoil the surprise but let’s just say, something very special has been kept from someone & is put at risk as Azazel ups the stakes again and proves why he holds his crown as evil incarnate. It was great to finally get to Carodoc’s book, he has made an impression from book one and was on my list of favourites so when I saw his name, I read it with a smile and that just got bigger as the story went on especially when we meet Isabelle and find out that he knew her and they had already had a relationship. It brought something new to the book that hadn’t been done in previous books and there was no awkwardness about getting the lady to love the Knight because the history was already there so it was just a matter of discovering each other again and reconnecting, not that that came without complications because Carodoc did a lot of damage when he left. I always love the clash of old fashioned views & modern ways but I didn’t even feel it this time, Carodoc came across as well adjusted to women of the modern world with only minor problems. They made a lovely couple though, it was so easy to connect to their characters, particularly Isabelle because of the turmoil she was going through and as always, I was routing for them at every turn.
The storyline was awesome! Yes, it was about protecting the relic from reaching Azazel’s hands and yes, it was about the pairing of a Knight & his Seraph to save his soul but the getting there was fraught with a rollercoaster of danger, risk & emotion that made one hell of a ride. It’s so hard not to spoil it for anyone because this plot is very much based upon one huge secret, so to give that away would really spoil it. I will tell you that I loved that the danger became more sinister, that the stakes were more personal, I loved that our couple had history, I loved Isabelle’s gift and how that played into the story and even though she had some huge skeletons in her closet, I loved that too because they were the best kind of secrets and she wasn’t the only one keeping them. We are even kept up to date with all of our favourite Knights & Seraphs, revealing some happy insights and some startling insights which will definitely be felt throughout the whole order and we even get to see the Knights & Seraphs working together in the field, which I had been hoping for since the Seraphs arrived. It definitely had a different feel to it, like things are changing, it feels like the Knights are ‘finding their feet’ and gaining ground against evil – tentatively - but at the same time, evil is upping the stakes and you can feel it all heading towards a critical point where the prophecy becomes real and Azazel’s power play is thwarted and I personally cannot wait! 5*s
Ps - It always amuses me how all of the Knights retain their original accents and even though it’s centuries later I can personally attest to the fact that people still do talk similarly, particularly when Caradoc says ‘aye’ for yes because that’s what I say where I’m from and also Declan, a lot of his broad Scottish words are still used today so for all it may seem old, it has stood the test of time.
June 19, 2017
Caradoc and Isabelle are faced with some hardship that will take belief and trust to heal the wounds in this relationship. It's been three years since they were last together and an impossible situation turned possible will rock the foundation on what their purpose stands. The darkness is getting stronger with each new step the Templars find themselves tasked with and Caradoc finds himself having to make a choice that could doom them all.
Again, Claire Ashgrove takes us deeper into this madness of light and dark where I find myself squirming in the midst of suspense. By far a series that needs to be read by anyone who loves anything to do with the Templar knights. There is SO much out there unknown about them and leaves the reader wide open for suspended disbelief.
Again, Claire Ashgrove takes us deeper into this madness of light and dark where I find myself squirming in the midst of suspense. By far a series that needs to be read by anyone who loves anything to do with the Templar knights. There is SO much out there unknown about them and leaves the reader wide open for suspended disbelief.
May 28, 2019
The stories just keep getting better!
If you think you have a grasp on the rules of the curse you're wrong. This story brings on a whole new level of suprise!
If you think you have a grasp on the rules of the curse you're wrong. This story brings on a whole new level of suprise!
January 26, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
--Actual Rating 4.5 Skulls
Claire Ashgrove's THE CURSE OF THE TEMPLARS series quickly became one of my favorites after I discovered it some time back. What's not to love... real history molded to fit a paranormal shell (yet with fabulous attention to detail where the history IS accurate), all melded with romance and set off by some mystery and intrigue. Fabulous!
When this book (which is actually the 5th story of the series) came out, I was upset that I couldn't start it immediately. I made time for it though, and boy am I glad that I did!
You don't get as much backstory with Immortal Sacrifice, so I highly suggest reading the books in order before jumping into this one to get its full awesome effect. For the sake of my review, I will give you some nonspoilery history to set things up...
Back when Caradoc was still mortal, he was a lord in Asterleigh. After taking his vows to become a knight - chastity, poverty, etc - he found that he was missing it too much, and that it wasn't helping his battle against the darkness that was destined to overtake him. In an effort to get closure on that part of his life and concentrate on his mission, he traveled to Europe to say goodbye to what was left of his beloved homeland and met Isabelle, a mob boss's daughter and antiquities dealer. They had a whirlwind affair in a quaint English cottage and both fell in love. Unfortunately, Caradoc knew that he could only be with the woman who was destined to be his, his Seraph, so to avoid any further heartache, he left. Without so much as a goodbye.
Fast forward 3 1/2 years into the future where Immortal Sacrifice begins... As the Templars continue their quest to obtain all of the holy relics that the dark lord Azazel could use to overthrow the Almighty, Caradoc and Isabelle run into each other once again at an antiquities auction in Sicily where The Tears of Christ, which are hidden in an exquisite flawless diamond necklace, are up for grabs, along with an urn and some other things that are made from the Cross. Both Caradoc and Isabelle are there to bid on the necklace and fireworks ensue. There's unresolved history, unfulfilled love and desire, need, determination, stubborness and more, and to make matters more interesting...secrets galore (I would love to tell you more, but I don't do spoilers. Sorry!).
Suffice it to say that the book was very well-written with a fast moving plot, side stories that will eventually segue into other Templars' tales (yes!!), and enough romance and action to keep all the different sides of us book addicts and paranormal junkies happy!
If you're looking for a fun, fresh and unique paranormal romance, this is an amazing book for it! However, again, I do suggest reading the series in order: Immortal Hope, Immortal Surrender, Immortal Protector ( a novella), Immortal Trust and Immortal Sacrifice.
--Actual Rating 4.5 Skulls
Claire Ashgrove's THE CURSE OF THE TEMPLARS series quickly became one of my favorites after I discovered it some time back. What's not to love... real history molded to fit a paranormal shell (yet with fabulous attention to detail where the history IS accurate), all melded with romance and set off by some mystery and intrigue. Fabulous!
When this book (which is actually the 5th story of the series) came out, I was upset that I couldn't start it immediately. I made time for it though, and boy am I glad that I did!
You don't get as much backstory with Immortal Sacrifice, so I highly suggest reading the books in order before jumping into this one to get its full awesome effect. For the sake of my review, I will give you some nonspoilery history to set things up...
Back when Caradoc was still mortal, he was a lord in Asterleigh. After taking his vows to become a knight - chastity, poverty, etc - he found that he was missing it too much, and that it wasn't helping his battle against the darkness that was destined to overtake him. In an effort to get closure on that part of his life and concentrate on his mission, he traveled to Europe to say goodbye to what was left of his beloved homeland and met Isabelle, a mob boss's daughter and antiquities dealer. They had a whirlwind affair in a quaint English cottage and both fell in love. Unfortunately, Caradoc knew that he could only be with the woman who was destined to be his, his Seraph, so to avoid any further heartache, he left. Without so much as a goodbye.
Fast forward 3 1/2 years into the future where Immortal Sacrifice begins... As the Templars continue their quest to obtain all of the holy relics that the dark lord Azazel could use to overthrow the Almighty, Caradoc and Isabelle run into each other once again at an antiquities auction in Sicily where The Tears of Christ, which are hidden in an exquisite flawless diamond necklace, are up for grabs, along with an urn and some other things that are made from the Cross. Both Caradoc and Isabelle are there to bid on the necklace and fireworks ensue. There's unresolved history, unfulfilled love and desire, need, determination, stubborness and more, and to make matters more interesting...secrets galore (I would love to tell you more, but I don't do spoilers. Sorry!).
Suffice it to say that the book was very well-written with a fast moving plot, side stories that will eventually segue into other Templars' tales (yes!!), and enough romance and action to keep all the different sides of us book addicts and paranormal junkies happy!
If you're looking for a fun, fresh and unique paranormal romance, this is an amazing book for it! However, again, I do suggest reading the series in order: Immortal Hope, Immortal Surrender, Immortal Protector ( a novella), Immortal Trust and Immortal Sacrifice.
January 27, 2014
Claire Ashgrove has done it again! This is the fifth instalment of her very popular Curse of the Templars series and has all of the elements that make her books so good. If you are already a fan then this will surely be an auto buy but if new to these books then I have to recommend that you get the others as you are truly missing out if you don't! Fabulous sexy fun with a paranormal twist and of course those gorgeous Knights, so what's not to like?
This book features Caradoc a Knight who has already met the woman he's meant to be with but unfortunately has realised too late and now lost her. He's in Sicily three years after he left Isabelle without telling her who or what he really is. He's bound to earth to fight the forces of Azazel and evil but has always hoped to be saved by a Seraph ( reincarnated angel) and has no idea how close he came.
Isabelle has been tricked and finds herself being cruelly blackmailed to win in an auction an antique diamond necklace but has no idea that it is a receptacle for the tears of Christ . It's a necklace that Caradoc must retrieve but meeting Isabelle is an unexpected development that he hadn't bargained for. As if his feelings for Isabelle weren't enough of a distraction finding out that she's equally determined to claim the necklace just rocks his world. If Azazel gets his hands on it it would be a catastrophe but the stubborn Isabelle is hiding something and it will be a complete game changer!
The Knights have lost relics before will this time be any different? Caradoc has already sacrificed so much but he's not sure that this time he can walk away from Isabelle but unfortunately the choice may not be his!
These books are marvellous fun but perhaps not aimed at those looking for historical fiction. Written with a great plot that moves quickly I really enjoyed this book. Caradoc has made mistakes but he truly tries to redeem himself even though at times he's just so pig headed! Isabelle has had her heart broken but had to find strength to keep going and is a loyal, strong protective woman who deserves to embrace love.
As for the rest of the Templars well rest assured that the author does not disappoint and we get to see more from these interesting characters which will hopefully lead on to the next book in the series.
So in conclusion this was quite an emotional journey that exposed secrets with more than a few surprise turns. Templars and Seraphs work together in what is fast becoming the ultimate fight against evil and it would be criminal to miss this wonderful instalment . Get this book, get this series and settle down for a fantastic action packed ride because you won't regret it!
A big fat five stars from me
This book features Caradoc a Knight who has already met the woman he's meant to be with but unfortunately has realised too late and now lost her. He's in Sicily three years after he left Isabelle without telling her who or what he really is. He's bound to earth to fight the forces of Azazel and evil but has always hoped to be saved by a Seraph ( reincarnated angel) and has no idea how close he came.
Isabelle has been tricked and finds herself being cruelly blackmailed to win in an auction an antique diamond necklace but has no idea that it is a receptacle for the tears of Christ . It's a necklace that Caradoc must retrieve but meeting Isabelle is an unexpected development that he hadn't bargained for. As if his feelings for Isabelle weren't enough of a distraction finding out that she's equally determined to claim the necklace just rocks his world. If Azazel gets his hands on it it would be a catastrophe but the stubborn Isabelle is hiding something and it will be a complete game changer!
The Knights have lost relics before will this time be any different? Caradoc has already sacrificed so much but he's not sure that this time he can walk away from Isabelle but unfortunately the choice may not be his!
These books are marvellous fun but perhaps not aimed at those looking for historical fiction. Written with a great plot that moves quickly I really enjoyed this book. Caradoc has made mistakes but he truly tries to redeem himself even though at times he's just so pig headed! Isabelle has had her heart broken but had to find strength to keep going and is a loyal, strong protective woman who deserves to embrace love.
As for the rest of the Templars well rest assured that the author does not disappoint and we get to see more from these interesting characters which will hopefully lead on to the next book in the series.
So in conclusion this was quite an emotional journey that exposed secrets with more than a few surprise turns. Templars and Seraphs work together in what is fast becoming the ultimate fight against evil and it would be criminal to miss this wonderful instalment . Get this book, get this series and settle down for a fantastic action packed ride because you won't regret it!
A big fat five stars from me
January 27, 2014
Claire Ashgrove is back into her flow with the latest of the Templar books. I hate to admit it but the book before this one (Immortal Trust) left me a little disappointed after her previous two fantastic reads in this series (haven't got my hands on the Immortal Protector yet). Not that it was bad, but I just didn't feel as close to the characters as I had in the previous books.
No such problem with Immortal Sacrifice. Caradoc and Isabelles story definitely had me turning the pages on my kindle as quickly as I could, submerging into their world totally. Espionage, kidnappings, murder, the mob and troubled love!! What more do you need in a storyline?
Caradoc is, I think, what I would want in my very own knight. He is loyal, caring, and so utterly understanding, even when being verbally hauled over the coals by the woman he loves. He makes a duff choice part way through the story, but that was an understandable decision considering the information he had at the time.
Isabelle is gutsy and stalwart, trying her best to manage on her own and stay strong in order to do whatever needs to be done to secure her daughters safety, however there were points in the story where I thought I could happily smack Isabelle in the ribs, but then I was playing with the full deck of cards, and she only had half (not that she is crazy, but that our lovely leading man had not given all the info she needed to make the right decisions). I really enjoyed her character :)
If you haven't picked up the series yet (if not why not???) I would recommend that you read them in order, otherwise it can spoil story lines a little, although it has to be said each book can be read as a stand alone.
Most definitely a great read.
No such problem with Immortal Sacrifice. Caradoc and Isabelles story definitely had me turning the pages on my kindle as quickly as I could, submerging into their world totally. Espionage, kidnappings, murder, the mob and troubled love!! What more do you need in a storyline?
Caradoc is, I think, what I would want in my very own knight. He is loyal, caring, and so utterly understanding, even when being verbally hauled over the coals by the woman he loves. He makes a duff choice part way through the story, but that was an understandable decision considering the information he had at the time.
Isabelle is gutsy and stalwart, trying her best to manage on her own and stay strong in order to do whatever needs to be done to secure her daughters safety, however there were points in the story where I thought I could happily smack Isabelle in the ribs, but then I was playing with the full deck of cards, and she only had half (not that she is crazy, but that our lovely leading man had not given all the info she needed to make the right decisions). I really enjoyed her character :)
If you haven't picked up the series yet (if not why not???) I would recommend that you read them in order, otherwise it can spoil story lines a little, although it has to be said each book can be read as a stand alone.
Most definitely a great read.
April 7, 2014
Review from Backchatting Books
Templar Knight, Caradoc of Asterleigh, is given the job of acquiring a necklace that contains Christ's tears at an auction in Sicily. It ought to be relatively straightforward but Isabella, the woman he loved (and abandoned) turns up with the same purpose. When he realises that she is his seraph, he tries to atone for his past behaviour. She has no time for romance though as she is being blackmailed by the dark Lord Azazel.
I liked this book but didn't love as much as the others. I didn't connect with the two lead characters as much as they were so unwilling to compromise. Isabella couldn't get past Caradoc leaving her and Caradoc wouldn't believe what Isabella eventually told him about her child. Neither really tried to see things from the other's point of view or even rely on each other when things got dangerous. There were a few sweet moments when they connected which were great but unfortunately there weren't enough of them as they were both so determined to keep their secrets bottled up.
I enjoyed finding out what the other Templar Knights were up to and how we seem to be moving even closer to the big showdown with Azazel. A solid entry in the series but not the best.
Templar Knight, Caradoc of Asterleigh, is given the job of acquiring a necklace that contains Christ's tears at an auction in Sicily. It ought to be relatively straightforward but Isabella, the woman he loved (and abandoned) turns up with the same purpose. When he realises that she is his seraph, he tries to atone for his past behaviour. She has no time for romance though as she is being blackmailed by the dark Lord Azazel.
I liked this book but didn't love as much as the others. I didn't connect with the two lead characters as much as they were so unwilling to compromise. Isabella couldn't get past Caradoc leaving her and Caradoc wouldn't believe what Isabella eventually told him about her child. Neither really tried to see things from the other's point of view or even rely on each other when things got dangerous. There were a few sweet moments when they connected which were great but unfortunately there weren't enough of them as they were both so determined to keep their secrets bottled up.
I enjoyed finding out what the other Templar Knights were up to and how we seem to be moving even closer to the big showdown with Azazel. A solid entry in the series but not the best.
July 20, 2014
Book 5 (there are four books and one novella)in the Curse of the Templars series (One of my favorite series).
The knights are immortal and fighting the dark lord who wants to overthrow God. However, everytime a knight kills part of the evil seeps into them. If they are unable to find their serph (their soul mate) they become evil and will fight for the dark lord.
The men are very hot alpha males.
Book 5:
Templar Knight, Cardoc, must acquire a historical necklace to keep it away from the dark lord (the necklace contains the tears of Christ). During this process he runs into a woman from his past that he left in order to keep her safe (she believes he used and abandoned her).
This book is very well written and moves fast. If you haven't read this series, you need to start at book 1 to fully understand what is going on with the Templar Knights.
I love this series and can't wait for book 6.
The knights are immortal and fighting the dark lord who wants to overthrow God. However, everytime a knight kills part of the evil seeps into them. If they are unable to find their serph (their soul mate) they become evil and will fight for the dark lord.
The men are very hot alpha males.
Book 5:
Templar Knight, Cardoc, must acquire a historical necklace to keep it away from the dark lord (the necklace contains the tears of Christ). During this process he runs into a woman from his past that he left in order to keep her safe (she believes he used and abandoned her).
This book is very well written and moves fast. If you haven't read this series, you need to start at book 1 to fully understand what is going on with the Templar Knights.
I love this series and can't wait for book 6.
January 22, 2014
Solid follow up in a strong series mixing traditional fantasy, urban fantasy, and paranormal romance elements.
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