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Castle in the Wilde #3
A Castle from Ashes
His family was abased, and their castle destroyed. Now a hint of the king’s favor marks him for murder.
Saving the king’s life has lifted Thomas Kaituer from impoverished exile. It also earned him a title—without a scrap of authority or noble privilege. All Sir Thomas gains from his courtesy title are a few party invitations and contempt from the House of Maerton—the very rivals who drove his family from their ancestral land.
When a stranger points out the ruins of Kaituer Castle to Thomas, he cannot resist visiting the home from which his grandfather fled into exile. Now a desolate scene where all may tread—except Thomas. Was he lured here with deadly intent? Who shot that arrow at him? And why, since he is a nobody?
Hovering between the poverty he grew up with and the nobility he is denied, Thomas belongs to neither world. No land will be his, no bride will be suitable, no children will carry his name. Then the king pulls a will from the royal archives. Thomas’s great-grandmother left her descendants a small estate, also occupied by the Maerton clan. They suddenly relinquish it. Far too easy. Another trap, perhaps? But how can he decline it, when it could be the key to his future? Would it give him the right to join hands with a certain lady? If he lives long enough.
A Castle from Ashes is the final novel of the Castle in the Wilde series. If you enjoy a story where lies hide in plain sight and true freedom must be won, explore this fantastical world with medieval undertones and sparks of hope.
Saving the king’s life has lifted Thomas Kaituer from impoverished exile. It also earned him a title—without a scrap of authority or noble privilege. All Sir Thomas gains from his courtesy title are a few party invitations and contempt from the House of Maerton—the very rivals who drove his family from their ancestral land.
When a stranger points out the ruins of Kaituer Castle to Thomas, he cannot resist visiting the home from which his grandfather fled into exile. Now a desolate scene where all may tread—except Thomas. Was he lured here with deadly intent? Who shot that arrow at him? And why, since he is a nobody?
Hovering between the poverty he grew up with and the nobility he is denied, Thomas belongs to neither world. No land will be his, no bride will be suitable, no children will carry his name. Then the king pulls a will from the royal archives. Thomas’s great-grandmother left her descendants a small estate, also occupied by the Maerton clan. They suddenly relinquish it. Far too easy. Another trap, perhaps? But how can he decline it, when it could be the key to his future? Would it give him the right to join hands with a certain lady? If he lives long enough.
A Castle from Ashes is the final novel of the Castle in the Wilde series. If you enjoy a story where lies hide in plain sight and true freedom must be won, explore this fantastical world with medieval undertones and sparks of hope.
428 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2022
13 people are currently reading
1304 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Rose
24 books124 followersSharon Rose has been weaving stories since her second-grade masterpiece, titled My Life as a Flying Squirrel. No publisher snatched it up, but her classmates loved it.
After creating home and family, Sharon pursued her dream of creating stories for people like you. To date, she has published ten books, with more in the works. She writes fantasy and science fiction because they offer vast spaces to explore the realities that we all face. Her stories blend cultures and characters into adventures with mystery, romance, and hope.
When not writing or reading, Sharon may be traveling, enjoying gardens, or searching for unique coffee shops with her husband. She lives in Minnesota, USA, famed for its 10,000 lakes and vibrant seasons.
~~~
What’s in a name?
Way more than I expected. As in, more people. Of course, I knew I was not the only Sharon Rose in the world, but it turns out that some of them are authors, too. I’m the Sharon Rose who writes science fiction and fantasy for those who prefer a cleaner read.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
After creating home and family, Sharon pursued her dream of creating stories for people like you. To date, she has published ten books, with more in the works. She writes fantasy and science fiction because they offer vast spaces to explore the realities that we all face. Her stories blend cultures and characters into adventures with mystery, romance, and hope.
When not writing or reading, Sharon may be traveling, enjoying gardens, or searching for unique coffee shops with her husband. She lives in Minnesota, USA, famed for its 10,000 lakes and vibrant seasons.
~~~
What’s in a name?
Way more than I expected. As in, more people. Of course, I knew I was not the only Sharon Rose in the world, but it turns out that some of them are authors, too. I’m the Sharon Rose who writes science fiction and fantasy for those who prefer a cleaner read.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 22, 2022
What an intriguing story. The series get better and better. Sharon Rose is a great author. I felt I was knew the characters personally and envisioned myself in some of the scenes. I felt like I was there. I was completely immersed in this story, and invested in the realm this author created. The author's writing style painted such vivid scenes in my mind that I could envision myself as part of the scenes. Lord Thomas became a great leader and Lady Sareen became a woman of substance. You will be very pleased with the ending. Waiting for your next great book Sharon Rose. Highly recommend.
January 4, 2022
My thoughts about this book:
• I was completely immersed in this story, and invested in the realm this author created. The author's writing style painted such vivid scenes in my mind that I could envision myself as part of the scenes.
• I liked watching Lord Thomas develop and mature into a wonderful leader. I enjoyed the intrigue and politics of this storyline.
• I loved getting to see Lady Sareen become a women of substance.
• This book had a very satisfying ending and was a conclusion to the Castle in the Wilde series. I have read all of the books and have enjoyed them immensely.
I was given a free copy of this book by the author. My review was voluntary and my opinions were my own. I really liked this book and I can't wait to read more books by this author.
• I was completely immersed in this story, and invested in the realm this author created. The author's writing style painted such vivid scenes in my mind that I could envision myself as part of the scenes.
• I liked watching Lord Thomas develop and mature into a wonderful leader. I enjoyed the intrigue and politics of this storyline.
• I loved getting to see Lady Sareen become a women of substance.
• This book had a very satisfying ending and was a conclusion to the Castle in the Wilde series. I have read all of the books and have enjoyed them immensely.
I was given a free copy of this book by the author. My review was voluntary and my opinions were my own. I really liked this book and I can't wait to read more books by this author.
January 8, 2022
I like this! The author introduced a young character with loads of potential earlier in this series and now she brings all that potential to fruition, despite that character's doubts and fears. This is not a new story line - I've seen it in many other books - but the author apparently effortlessly takes this character on a growth journey that feels organic, feels natural, feels right to the reader as Thomas deals with the surprises of meeting the challenges dropped on him. I enjoyed following Thomas as he groped his way to being his grandfather's grandson. This was a worthy ending to this series, although I really wish it wasn't ending.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 14, 2022
Sir Thomas Kaituer is almost assassinated at the ruins of his family's castle. Lady Sareen visits her cousin Beth to ask for advice on how to avoid marrying Lord Ivan Maerton, where she finds herself starting to fall in love with Sir Thomas. Lord Ivan Maerton is determined to accomplish two things: destroy Kaituer and marry Lady Sareen.
Where the first two books in the Castle in the Wilde series, A Castle Awakened and A Castle Contended, focus on Tristan and Beth's story, this one focuses on Sir Thomas Kaituer. Thomas isn't a new character by any means - he's been a side character of increasing importance ever since the first one where he first stumbles upon the castle while searching for his missing brother. We've seen him grow from being an outcast living in fear for his life to being knighted by the king himself. (In fact, the recently released prequel, A Castle Lost, tells the story of the grandfather he was named after, and how that Thomas Kaituer lost his family, title, and castle all in one day; it might be helpful to read that first to see where the present Thomas is coming from and all the family baggage he is dealing with.)
A Castle from Ashes at its core is a story about integrity and (appropriate) belief in one's self. Thomas is coming into his own - yet he struggles with self-doubt and whether he is worthy of all the things that have been restored to him. It feels like everyone else around him, from the people of the woods to Tristan and the king, believes in his capabilities more than he does himself. I don't quite believe in this "noble blood" thing that makes it so that he has a right to rule because of his bloodline/ancestors, but it is evident from the way that Thomas carries himself and how he relates to others that he has great leadership qualities and a heart to help those under his care. Besides, he has a great role model-and practical help-in Tristan.
On the other hand, Ivan is so sure of his place in the realm and his utter right to everything he wants that he gets increasingly unhinged when things are denied him or events don't turn out the way he expects them to. Of course, his greatest enemy is Thomas, because how dare this little upstart outlaw claim any portion of his inheritance no matter what the law says? I kind of pity Duke Maerton because he has to deal with his son, but not really because it is somewhat his fault.
Of course, in between the clash of these two men, there has to be a woman. And Lady Sareen is stuck in a society where she has little to no say in what happens to her. But it's lovely to see how she learns to stand up for herself - and what she really wants - while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
All in all, A Castle from Ashes is an exciting read and a fitting end to the trilogy.
Note: I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Where the first two books in the Castle in the Wilde series, A Castle Awakened and A Castle Contended, focus on Tristan and Beth's story, this one focuses on Sir Thomas Kaituer. Thomas isn't a new character by any means - he's been a side character of increasing importance ever since the first one where he first stumbles upon the castle while searching for his missing brother. We've seen him grow from being an outcast living in fear for his life to being knighted by the king himself. (In fact, the recently released prequel, A Castle Lost, tells the story of the grandfather he was named after, and how that Thomas Kaituer lost his family, title, and castle all in one day; it might be helpful to read that first to see where the present Thomas is coming from and all the family baggage he is dealing with.)
A Castle from Ashes at its core is a story about integrity and (appropriate) belief in one's self. Thomas is coming into his own - yet he struggles with self-doubt and whether he is worthy of all the things that have been restored to him. It feels like everyone else around him, from the people of the woods to Tristan and the king, believes in his capabilities more than he does himself. I don't quite believe in this "noble blood" thing that makes it so that he has a right to rule because of his bloodline/ancestors, but it is evident from the way that Thomas carries himself and how he relates to others that he has great leadership qualities and a heart to help those under his care. Besides, he has a great role model-and practical help-in Tristan.
On the other hand, Ivan is so sure of his place in the realm and his utter right to everything he wants that he gets increasingly unhinged when things are denied him or events don't turn out the way he expects them to. Of course, his greatest enemy is Thomas, because how dare this little upstart outlaw claim any portion of his inheritance no matter what the law says? I kind of pity Duke Maerton because he has to deal with his son, but not really because it is somewhat his fault.
Of course, in between the clash of these two men, there has to be a woman. And Lady Sareen is stuck in a society where she has little to no say in what happens to her. But it's lovely to see how she learns to stand up for herself - and what she really wants - while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
All in all, A Castle from Ashes is an exciting read and a fitting end to the trilogy.
Note: I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 26, 2022
A Castle from Ashes is the third novel in Sharon Rose's Castle in the Wilde series.
It's a Kingdom fantasy in that it takes place in a fictional medieval world with no magic and similar technology to our own world's medieval period.
This book follows Sir Thomas as he rises from lowly commoner to the title of Lord. (It happens before the half way point so I don't consider this a spoiler.) The story takes a sharp turn once Thomas starts running his own estate. If the first half is a romance of manners then the second half is who-dun-it. Okay, it's really more of a how-dun-it. If you read the last book, Castle Contended, you already know who did it.
I really enjoyed this mystery aspect. It gave this book a different flavor from the previous two. Book one being largely about exploration and discovery, and book two being somewhat of a court intrigue and power struggle drama.
On reading order I feel like these books are best read in order, even though this third installment does feature a different main protagonist, Thomas did feature heavily in the previous two books so he is by no means a new character. Also past events are referenced heavily in this book. It is also worth reading the two prequel novellas in order to get the full back story that this novel so neatly completes and brings full circle.
I am sad to see the Castle in the Wilde series end. But I trust the author to have even more exciting worlds for readers to visit in the future.
*I was given an advanced copy of this book and attest that this review is my personal and honest assessment of the work provided.*
It's a Kingdom fantasy in that it takes place in a fictional medieval world with no magic and similar technology to our own world's medieval period.
This book follows Sir Thomas as he rises from lowly commoner to the title of Lord. (It happens before the half way point so I don't consider this a spoiler.) The story takes a sharp turn once Thomas starts running his own estate. If the first half is a romance of manners then the second half is who-dun-it. Okay, it's really more of a how-dun-it. If you read the last book, Castle Contended, you already know who did it.
I really enjoyed this mystery aspect. It gave this book a different flavor from the previous two. Book one being largely about exploration and discovery, and book two being somewhat of a court intrigue and power struggle drama.
On reading order I feel like these books are best read in order, even though this third installment does feature a different main protagonist, Thomas did feature heavily in the previous two books so he is by no means a new character. Also past events are referenced heavily in this book. It is also worth reading the two prequel novellas in order to get the full back story that this novel so neatly completes and brings full circle.
I am sad to see the Castle in the Wilde series end. But I trust the author to have even more exciting worlds for readers to visit in the future.
*I was given an advanced copy of this book and attest that this review is my personal and honest assessment of the work provided.*
January 23, 2022
'A Castle from Ashes' is a Christian Fantasy book about the journey of Sir Thomas who starts as a man lost to his past and someone who has felt he was given a title out of pity by the king. As the story progresses, he becomes someone more, something more. He didn't know much about his family history and where he came from. Sharon Rose has a way with creating lifetimes and scenery from words that makes you feel as if you are walking around the manor, watching as the lords and ladies get ready for the hunt, or trekking through the cemetery that hasn't been maintained in God knows how long. You feel the emotions, such as love, spite and anger, as they change throughout the story.
There haven't been many fantasy stories that have maintained my attention and I couldn't put this book down. It was a true page turner. So much so that I have purchased the first two books of the series to read it all over again! Although this story is stand alone and was easy to understand, I feel that the first two books could probably add some kind of depth to my understanding of this world that Sharon Rose created. (I received a free copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.)
There haven't been many fantasy stories that have maintained my attention and I couldn't put this book down. It was a true page turner. So much so that I have purchased the first two books of the series to read it all over again! Although this story is stand alone and was easy to understand, I feel that the first two books could probably add some kind of depth to my understanding of this world that Sharon Rose created. (I received a free copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.)
January 16, 2022
Oh, wow, I loved this book!!! What a wonderful way to end this series!! Thomas has come along way since becoming friends with Tristan, and now finds himself living at the Navayn Manor House. He finds that things aren't always as they seem, or as others would have you believe. He knows danger is lurking, but doesn't realize just how much until it's almost too late. Will he and his friend and squire, Jonathan, be able to protect their guests?? What else can go wrong when the King forbids him to court any woman? Will he lose Sareen before he can tell her of his love? You will want to read this series in order, or you'll lose a great reading experience!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
December 22, 2021
Loved this entire series! Can't wait for the "minor" novellas to come that will fill out some of the other characters and backstories from the people in the books.
Thomas and so many of the others became "real" during the reading of ACfA; I felt like I could see the people clearly and the surroundings so very well.
Oh, let's not forget that there is a truly hate-able villain. Rose does an amazing job of portraying how twisted he is without glorifying his wickedness.
Here are my favorite quotes or things to ponder:
“Schemes are of the mind, and wisdom is of the heart.”
"Whenever you pursue a worthy purpose, someone will always stand in your way. Ignore what has no power to stop you. Overcome real obstacles."
“Blindness may be caused in many ways, arrogance being one of them."
Thank you, Sharon Rose, for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Thomas and so many of the others became "real" during the reading of ACfA; I felt like I could see the people clearly and the surroundings so very well.
Oh, let's not forget that there is a truly hate-able villain. Rose does an amazing job of portraying how twisted he is without glorifying his wickedness.
Here are my favorite quotes or things to ponder:
“Schemes are of the mind, and wisdom is of the heart.”
"Whenever you pursue a worthy purpose, someone will always stand in your way. Ignore what has no power to stop you. Overcome real obstacles."
“Blindness may be caused in many ways, arrogance being one of them."
Thank you, Sharon Rose, for the ARC. This is my honest review.
February 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, and I plan to get the rest of the series. An inspiring, character driven story in a medieval fantasy world, this tale stuck with me. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series!
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November 3, 2022Author review here—an opportunity unique to Goodreads. This is where you discover why I loved writing the book instead of reading it.
This third and final novel in the series is Thomas’s story. I’ve had a soft spot for him ever since he found his brother’s body in A Castle Awakened. In the midst of a devastating situation, he did a brave, almost hopeless thing. I just had to explore what sort of man Thomas could become. Yes, I’m the author, but there is always a discovery aspect in writing. Watching Thomas face up to the contradictions of his life was a joy.
Sareen first appeared in the prequel as the sort of person who always takes the prescribed path. Early in my own life, I had a hard time bucking the system. Maybe that’s why I wanted to give Sareen a chance to shine. What would she do if society’s dictates became intolerable? Some paths should not be walked, but a better path can be hard to find.
And then there is Ivan. All I can say about him is that writing a villain is an entirely different matter. Especially a villain like him.
Add some favorite characters from earlier stories, a mischievous child, murder, and intrigue…it all rolls together into a story that was a pleasure to write. I hope you enjoy it too!
This third and final novel in the series is Thomas’s story. I’ve had a soft spot for him ever since he found his brother’s body in A Castle Awakened. In the midst of a devastating situation, he did a brave, almost hopeless thing. I just had to explore what sort of man Thomas could become. Yes, I’m the author, but there is always a discovery aspect in writing. Watching Thomas face up to the contradictions of his life was a joy.
Sareen first appeared in the prequel as the sort of person who always takes the prescribed path. Early in my own life, I had a hard time bucking the system. Maybe that’s why I wanted to give Sareen a chance to shine. What would she do if society’s dictates became intolerable? Some paths should not be walked, but a better path can be hard to find.
And then there is Ivan. All I can say about him is that writing a villain is an entirely different matter. Especially a villain like him.
Add some favorite characters from earlier stories, a mischievous child, murder, and intrigue…it all rolls together into a story that was a pleasure to write. I hope you enjoy it too!
January 13, 2023
Thomas is the sole remaining exiled descendant of a disinherited duke, and when a secret visit to the ruins of his ancestral castle nearly ends in his death, it's clear that some still have not forgiven his family. When an old will surfaces that gives him land in the middle of an enemy stronghold, refusing seems impossible but accepting may cause his death. At the same time, could this estate be the key that enables him to court the Lady Sareen, who has always felt too far above him for any chance of marriage? But if he's in danger, will that endanger her? Join Thomas as he navigates the sometimes treacherous waters of love, politics and intrigue in the search for his heart's desire.
This holds more of a 'mystery' thread than others in the series, which made for an interesting change of pace. While we know who's responsible for some murders/attempts, it is uncertain where the murderer will strike next and whether/how he will get caught in the end. Thomas has been a relatively prominent secondary character in the two previous books, so it's great to see him get his own story now that he's mature enough for it - and mature he clearly is. I enjoyed watching him grappling (successfully) with the difficulties of his new position and loved the way that he gradually won over those who had once despised him. With a satisfying ending to round off a thoroughly enjoyable book and series, what more could one ask? Recommended, and I'm looking forward to more by the author.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
This holds more of a 'mystery' thread than others in the series, which made for an interesting change of pace. While we know who's responsible for some murders/attempts, it is uncertain where the murderer will strike next and whether/how he will get caught in the end. Thomas has been a relatively prominent secondary character in the two previous books, so it's great to see him get his own story now that he's mature enough for it - and mature he clearly is. I enjoyed watching him grappling (successfully) with the difficulties of his new position and loved the way that he gradually won over those who had once despised him. With a satisfying ending to round off a thoroughly enjoyable book and series, what more could one ask? Recommended, and I'm looking forward to more by the author.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
January 19, 2022
I was given a free copy of this book and I decided to give it an honest review.
This is the third story in the Castle in the Wild series. It does not pick up where the last one ends; there is an approximate five year gap. The story follows Thomas and Sareen who have appeared in the previous stories, instead of Tristan and Beth though both make an appearance. I like Thomas. He is an earnest young man of humble means but noble origins. He has learned lessons from both his friends and enemies. He takes his good fortune seriously but does not neglect helping others, knowing that he lives in an interconnected community where many rise and fall together. Ivan, the villain of the story, is a fascinating character. Someone who is smart but cannot see his own flaws or where those flaws can lead. Once again the author has written a very entertaining book with a cast of great characters.
This is the third story in the Castle in the Wild series. It does not pick up where the last one ends; there is an approximate five year gap. The story follows Thomas and Sareen who have appeared in the previous stories, instead of Tristan and Beth though both make an appearance. I like Thomas. He is an earnest young man of humble means but noble origins. He has learned lessons from both his friends and enemies. He takes his good fortune seriously but does not neglect helping others, knowing that he lives in an interconnected community where many rise and fall together. Ivan, the villain of the story, is a fascinating character. Someone who is smart but cannot see his own flaws or where those flaws can lead. Once again the author has written a very entertaining book with a cast of great characters.
January 19, 2022
A Boring Fantasy🌈
Fantasy🌈 in a Medieval Historical Style Country with a Mystery and Romance💕
The saga of Sir Thomas🐺🔪 coming back home to claim his heritage and finds his family castle🏰 in ruins. He moves into a manor house but he's basically starting from scratch. However, someone is also trying to kill💀 him!
ARC Provided by Hidden 💎Gems.
I also got this ebook from Amazon 📚with KU.
This was a very long book with sporadic attempts on Thomas's life as he begins to rebuild his life and reclaim his title. This is another long book that rehashes the same story line over and over, like the author couldn't figure out how to end it.
I did not read the previous books in this series📚 and have not read anything else by this author that I know of. Much of this book was boring. I did like the unapologetic and evil villain, Ivan.
Fantasy🌈 in a Medieval Historical Style Country with a Mystery and Romance💕
The saga of Sir Thomas🐺🔪 coming back home to claim his heritage and finds his family castle🏰 in ruins. He moves into a manor house but he's basically starting from scratch. However, someone is also trying to kill💀 him!
ARC Provided by Hidden 💎Gems.
I also got this ebook from Amazon 📚with KU.
This was a very long book with sporadic attempts on Thomas's life as he begins to rebuild his life and reclaim his title. This is another long book that rehashes the same story line over and over, like the author couldn't figure out how to end it.
I did not read the previous books in this series📚 and have not read anything else by this author that I know of. Much of this book was boring. I did like the unapologetic and evil villain, Ivan.
January 23, 2022
Grand Finale
I have enjoyed reading this uplifting gorgeous tale by Sharon Rose!
Mystery ,romance and adventure with delightful descriptions of fabulous scenery,Royalty and characters you just have to love!
Follow Thomas to his well deserved finale.
I have enjoyed reading this uplifting gorgeous tale by Sharon Rose!
Mystery ,romance and adventure with delightful descriptions of fabulous scenery,Royalty and characters you just have to love!
Follow Thomas to his well deserved finale.
February 4, 2022
This was a beautiful Book
I have read all the books that Sharon has written. I must relate the the fact that she is so free to incorporate God in every one of her books brings me peace. Please keep writing with God at your side.
I have read all the books that Sharon has written. I must relate the the fact that she is so free to incorporate God in every one of her books brings me peace. Please keep writing with God at your side.
May 27, 2024
A wonderful conclusion to a great series!
I wish this could go on…add more installments!!! You really get invested in the characters and plot…so good!!! I am sorry this is at an end, but will look at more of her books!
I wish this could go on…add more installments!!! You really get invested in the characters and plot…so good!!! I am sorry this is at an end, but will look at more of her books!
January 22, 2022
Action, adventure, and romance
A wonderful tale that left me on the edge of my seat at times and with a smile on my face and in my heart at the end.
A wonderful tale that left me on the edge of my seat at times and with a smile on my face and in my heart at the end.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews