3 Page-Turners Under One Cover from Reader Favorite Michelle Griep! Can truth and love prevail when no one is as they appear? The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady Cornish Coast, 1815 When a prim and proper governess returns to England from abroad, she expects to comfort her dying father–not fall in love with a smuggler. Will Helen Fletcher keep Isaac Seaton’s unusual secret? The Doctor’s Woman (A … unusual secret?
The Doctor’s Woman (A Carol Award Winner!)
Dakota Territory, 1862
Emmy Nelson, daughter of a missionary doctor, and Dr. James Clark, city doctor aspiring to teach, find themselves working side by side at Fort Snelling during the Dakota Uprising. That is when the real clash of ideals begins.
A House of Secrets
St. Paul, Minnesota, 1890
Ladies Aide Chairman, Amanda Carston resolves to clean up St. Paul’s ramshackle housing, starting with the worst of the worst: a “haunted” house that’s secretly owned by her beau–a home that’s his only means of helping brothel girls escape from the hands of the city’s most infamous madam.
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Three great stories in one book! Wow! You know you’re in for a treat when you see Michelle Griep’s name on the cover. Seriously. And this book fits in nicely will all her others.
Here’s my suggestion- start with the last story in the book and then go to the beginning and read through the middle. That way you start out great and it gets better and better. The Doctor’s Woman could have been twice as long and I’d still want to know more.
Can’t wait to see what Michelle comes up with next!
I was provided a copy by the publisher but as always, my opinions are my own.
Ladies of Intrigue (2019) is a good collection of novellas by Michelle Griep. This book is available in all forms including eBook, and is 288 pages in length. This collection reads as a stand-alone; it is not necessary to read any of Michelle’s full-length novels to understand the stories in this anthology. With a full-time job and an exceptionally precocious six-year old at home, this novella series took me three days to read. I received a copy of Ladies of Intrigue in eBook form from the publisher, Barbour Books, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give this novella collection 4 STARS. This collection is a Christian Historical Romance anthology.
Story #1
Helen Fletcher judges all by the actions of a few. She closes herself off from others by following a very strict code of self-made laws. A couple of times, Isaac, the hero of this story, explains to Helen that life is not strictly black and white. On this earth, humans live in various shades of gray, and Helen needs to be a little less judgmental and a bit more understanding of the plights of others. Yes, stealing is bad in and of itself and does break one of God’s commandments, but why is one stealing? Is the person stealing because he/she is pure evil and loves to get away with theft, or is the person down on his luck and responsible for a lot of mouths to feed? See — various shades of gray! I appreciate Isaac’s point. I can very much be a Helen who sees the world in stark black and white. But this story reminds me that I need to be more compassionate and more aware of others and their circumstances.
Story #2
Of the three stories in this anthology, I liked this one the best. I love Emmy and James, and I found their interactions to be the most relatable and endearing. What I appreciate the most about this fun story is its message on grace. Emmy is the daughter of a renowned doctor. She has followed her beloved father from patient to patient since she was a little girl. Although not formally educated in medicine, to say Emmy is a natural healer would be an understatement. James, however, is 1000% book smart. He is a city boy with a fancy degree. He knows everything there is to know about modern medicine. You can imagine how Emmy and James clash at first. Each character is sure his/her way is the best way to treat the patients. But over time, and by working side by side, Emmy and James realize that there is a lot to learn from one another. They show grace to one another, and realize just how valuable each one is. When we set ourselves aside for a moment, and pay attention to the God-given skills and talents of those God puts in our paths, we are able to see just how priceless others truly are. What a fantastic message for today!
Story #3
Of the three stories, “A House of Secrets” deals with a topic that resonated with me the most. Amanda, the heroine of this story, is so myopic it blinds her to the goodness and hard work of those around her. She becomes so self-focused on her good plans to help others that she loses sight of God. I am reminded of Matthew 7:21-23 where Jesus states, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’” We humans can get so caught up in our self-righteous plans that we push God away. We are positive that through our plans we are working towards God’s best interests. Then, when things don’t go our way, we self-righteously get mad at God and throw our fists in the air. It is imperative, as Amanda discovers, that we recognize that God is the One and only Boss, and we can only serve His purposes in His way. To know God is to follow His ways — what an excellent and timely message for today’s reader.
Overall, I very much enjoyed my time reading this anthology. Michelle Griep is a very talented story teller and author. I found the plots of each story to be engaging and fast-paced, the characters are unique and endearing, and the messages are timely and inspirational. If you are a fan of good short story anthologies, I highly recommend Ladies of Intrigue.
Danger looms for three Ladies Of Intrigue…
Over the last year or so I’ve really come to enjoy Michelle Griep’s historical romance so when I saw Ladies Of Intrigue it was a must read for me. I was curious to see if she could write novellas as well as she does her full length novels.
While the title indicates suspense I found that Ladies Of Intrigue was more historical romance with a healthy dash of adventure. What could be more adventurous than smugglers, a Native American uprising, and a haunted house with many secrets…?
One thing that I would like to note is that those who have difficulty with smaller print will not have that problem with this book. The font size is really nice and easy to read.
I found Michelle Griep’s novella collection to be a fairly quick and easy read. The settings, Cornwall, Dakota Territory, and St. Paul, Minnesota, were quite interesting. And I really liked the fact that the stories covered the length of the 1800s, 1815, 1862, and 1890. So, if you are looking for a trio of adventurous and romantic novellas from a talented author Ladies Of Intrigue would be a great choice.
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Pretend I am courageous.
Pretend my heart still beats.
Pretend all manner of blissful things…
And I shall find him alive.
So begins the first story in Michelle Griep’s three novella book, Ladies of Intrigue.
I enjoyed this collection of novellas. I sometimes prefer novellas with a common thread. However, Michelle Griep’s novels of three different locations and times were perfect.
Each story’s heroine has obstacles to overcome where she must rely on her faith in God, her wits and her intuition.
The stories are perfect for a quick read, especially as winter seems to be dragging on, for these stories are lively and well-paced.
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit through NetGalley. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
Oh, what fun! Three of Michelle Griep’s novellas in one book! I would have finished it in one sitting if I hadn’t started the book later in the evening and had to take a break to sleep. All of the author’s trademarks that makes her books delectable are in these novellas – smooth and easy-to-read writing, descriptive historical settings, strong and lovable characters, nicely laid-out plot, and a steady current of faith infused into the characters. If you enjoy well-written historical romance, you will enjoy this collection of novellas.
The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady takes place in 1815 England as Isaac works secretly as a smuggler to help his impoverished tenants and Helen accidentally discovers his identity. The Doctor’s Woman takes place in 1862 Minnesota as James starts a new position as the fort’s physician and Emmy helps as his assistant after her own physician father passes away. A House of Secrets also takes place in Minnesota but in 1890, as Joseph, the city counsel, works to covertly help women in need but the secrets become a bit too entangled when his fiancée Amanda unwittingly becomes involved in the situation. There is a bit of intrigue in each story with plenty of historical fare and sweet romance.
I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep contains three 19th century romance novellas. The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady takes us to the Cornish Coast in 1815. Helen Fletcher is rushing to Cornwall from Ireland to be by her ill father’s side. As Helen is preparing to depart the ship, a band of renegades’ attack and liberate a shipment of gunpowder. When Helen meets her father’s patron, Isaac Seaton, she is shocked when she is recognizes him as one of the smugglers. Seaton likes Helen’s fiery spirit, but he is afraid she will reveal his secret to the revenue man. Can Seaton persuade Helen to remain silent?
The Doctor’s Woman has readers journeying to Dakota Territory in November of 1862. Dr. Edrith Nelson has passed away and his daughter, Emmy is preparing to leave town when soldiers need assistance with a patient. Dr. James Clark is the new physician at Fort Snelling and, with the recent influx of Native Americans needing medical aide, can use a qualified assistant like Emmy. Emmy agrees to stay and soon clashes with Dr. Clark on their different treatment methods. Can they find a way to work together and where will it lead?
A House of Secrets takes us back to October 1890 in St. Paul, Minnesota. Amanda Carson is the chairwoman of the local Ladies Aide Society and has come up with a new project for their group. She wants to transform the dilapidated Grigg house into a school for the impoverished. Amanda’s search for the owner is met with resistance. She is unaware that her fiancé and city attorney, Joseph Blake uses the home as a safe house for woman who wish to escape from prostitution. If Joseph can just get Amanda to wait a couple of weeks, he will no longer have need of the home. Amanda, though, is a determined woman when she is on a mission. Joseph’s secret could cost him the woman he loves.
Ladies of Intrigue contains three Christian romance stories set in the 1800s. I like the three different locales and the couples in the stories. It is nice to watch the couples learn to trust each other, overcome their differences and fall in love. I thought Ladies of Intrigue was well-written with steady pacing. I did feel that The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady needed more fleshing out. The ending felt incomplete. There are smugglers, soldiers, a dedicated doctor, sick Native Americans, a haunted house, corrupt men, romance, society ladies and much more in Ladies of Intrigue. I enjoyed these three sweet romantic stories with Christian values. If you are looking for a diverting nineteenth century romantic tales, then pick up Ladies of Intrigue.
Ladies of Intrigue is another fascinating compilation of three novellas with calculating characters and all kinds of shenanigans going on. I was held captive by the words on the pages. How are these couples going to survive treachery, brutality, and danger? Will they continue to rely on God? Will they discover they can trust and depend on one another?
Griep is a master when it comes to creating realistic situations. I found each story came to a satisfying conclusion without being rushed. I highly recommend this novella collection to fans of suspense. The stories are appropriate for any age and quick to read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
I absolutely adored ALL of the stories in this set. You simply can’t go wrong with this clean, wholesome collection. These stories are packed with likable, interesting characters, romance, intrigue, mystery and suspense. Every single story is guaranteed to pique your interest and warm your heart.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley & Barbour Publishing, Inc. / Barbour Books in order to read and provide a voluntary and honest review, should I choose to do so.
#LadiesOfIntrigue #NetGalley
Ladies of Intrigue, by Michelle Griep, is a stunning collection of 3 terrific novellas. Abounding with surprises and unexpected twists, the novellas included within this collection offer thoroughly enjoyable stories. With its terrific blend of romance, history, faith, and mystery, Ladies of Intrigue is utterly compelling and entertaining. Exceptionally well-written, this book is truly a pleasure to read.
Well-crafted elements of plot, characterization, and setting come together artfully to create an alluring reading experience. With sumptuously intriguing plots, these novellas are extremely clever and character-driven. These 3 stories creatively explore the themes of loss, love, redemption, honor, purpose, and courage through a diverse cast of entertaining and compelling characters who are richly developed and truly likable. Their strength and determination in the face of trials is truly inspiring. Their motivations, fears, desires, convictions, and choices shine with meaning. Integral to the stories, the settings are as enjoyable and memorable as the characters themselves. Whether in England or America, the fully detailed surroundings provide fitting backdrops to the events that are so important to the unfolding stories.
Ladies of Intrigue is a novella collection that can easily be enjoyed again and again. The romance and mystery within these novellas are elements worthy of being savored. Ms. Griep’s richly descriptive style and attention to detail are deeply satisfying and memorable. This book is certainly a wonderful addition to any personal library, and I recommend it wholeheartedly to all readers.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Three most enjoyable stories in one cover – what a lovely way to spend an afternoon!
Set in the early 1800’s, we start out in a port village in Cornwall, England. I must admit that the idea of a gentleman smuggler brought several pictures to mind, most of which were quite correct. That coupled with a staid governess and a most interesting story emerges.
A doctor with a great deal of book knowledge arrives at Fort Snelling in Minnesota. How will he fare with frontier medicine, especially when dealing with the beautiful protege of a frontier doctor? Combine that with an epidemic and native cures to indulge in a tale that ends quite unexpectedly.
Mysteries always make for a good story….at least if you are the one knowing the secret behind it. A land title, a school for underprivileged children and a boiler explosion bring plenty of questions to this storyline.
I received this lovely anthology through Barbour Publishing, Netgalley and CelebrateLit. All impressions and opinions are my own.
Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep has three faith filled historical short stories. Each exciting story is set in a different time period and three very unique ladies. All the stories have a message of how God is present and working in a believer’s life. While this is a collection of short stories I felt all were complete and not too short. I especially liked the second story because of the frontier medicine. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book.
This book was a lifesaver for me. I have been staying up way too late every night of our three-week Christmas break because it’s impossible to go to sleep before finishing my book of the day. (Once you pop, you can’t stop, if you know what I mean…) But this book is actually three books, a collection of three novellas all set in the 19th century. Disconnected novellas. Novellas that can be read separately. I thoroughly enjoyed each one over the course of three days and was able to go to sleep by ten o’clock instead of staying up to midnight and beyond.
The first story, The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady, is set in Cornwall, a few decades after the renowned series Poldark begins. Helen is a governess, traveling to visit her dying father who is a well-loved vicar in a coastal village. As she disembarks, the ship is set upon by smugglers, one of whom whisks her out of the way, keeping her safe from a horde of drunk sailors. Later, when Helen meets Isaac Seaton, the young lord of the manor, she realizes that she’s seen him before and must make the difficult decision whether to keep his secret.
The second story, The Doctor’s Woman, is set during the American Civil War out on the frontier. After the death of her father, Emmy is supposed to go back east. But when the new doctor at the fort demands that she stay at the fort and assist him as a nurse, she finds that James Clark is a hard man to resist. Under the doctor’s protection, she ministers to sufferers of measles and smallpox, assisting the Sioux Indians when others would consign them to their fate.
The third story, A House of Secrets, is set at the end of the 19th century in St. Paul, Minnesota. Amanda is engaged to a city attorney known for trying to close down brothels. But when she tries to enlist his help in converting an old haunted house into an orphanage, her fiance proves singularly unhelpful. What secret is he hiding and why won’t he confide in her?
My favorite story of the bunch was The Doctor’s Woman. It is difficult to create a lush setting and fully rounded characters in the format of a short story or a novella, and for me, this one succeeded the best in this task. Michelle Griep is at home in describing the American frontier. (I greatly enjoyed her book released last summer, The Captured Bride, which was set during the French and Indian War.) In The Doctor’s Woman, James Clark jumped from the page as a determined physician, manly protector, and romantic protagonist. Emmy was just as appealing, making the decision to forgive the wrongs done to her by the native tribes and treat them as humans made in God’s image.
My second favorite in the collection was The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady. I loved the premise of this story! A gentleman forced to resort to smuggling to provide for his starving tenants…how noble! It didn’t feel fully fleshed out, however, and I think it would benefit from being expanded into a full-length novel.
All in all, this is a wonderful collection–excellent for when you need a quick bite of historical fiction instead of the full meal deal.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This a wonderful 3 short story book and is beautifully written with Michelle’s rich vocabulary and writing skills. It’s a winner!!
I read this in one afternoon because each story was so engaging. There are three charming stories of historical fiction with the right amount of romance and intrigue. Each story is full of detail and reads like a much longer book. I could turn around and read it again tomorrow it delighted me so much.
All sweet romances with strong characters and vibrant historical settings. Full review is at my website: lorainenunley(dot)com
I received this book complimentary in a giveaway. I was not required to give a review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are my own.
A great collection of of mysterious ladies!
This book was a fun read, all the stories flowed well and they were full of unique ladies with a dash of mystery tossed in. Michelle Griep really takes you all over the world in these stories, I loved it. I would definitely add this book to your reading list this summer.
I volunteered to read this book from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest feedback, the thoughts and opinions expressed with in are my own.Michelle Griep
I have to say I just love Michelle Grieps stories!
Her characters are deep and endearing, the plot captivating, interesting scenery, and always a dash of mystery and intrigue.
Well this was not the exception! I was not expecting well developed characters, because they were not full length novels, but I was wrong! In a short time I feel I knew this characters and was quickly rooting for them and their HEA’s!
I loved each story and especially the heroes and heroines! They are all strongminded, but kind and compassionate as well. Helen and Isaac, Emmy and James, and Amanda and Joseph. All of them ready to put their heart and life on the line for others.
My favorite of all was definitely “The Smugglers Lady”. I totally fell in love with Helen and Isaac. Seemed opposite but they were the perfect match, and I loved the adventurous part of the story!
I really enjoyed each one, and I have to say that I would love it if Michelle would expand them into full length novels. There’s awesome material there!
A definitely must read! Totally recommended!
I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via Netgalley. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Barbour Books through NetGalley allowed me to read and review this ebook, a compilation of the novellas. The opinions are my own and not required. The book is Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep.
I do not give a synopsis of a book in my reviews, you can read that in a lot of other places. I do give my honest opinion. In my opinion, this is a 3-star book. the reasons are below.
The main reason I give only 3 stars is that the first novella was very disorienting. I felt like I was plopped into the middle of a book, that the beginning and ending were missing. There was no reason given why the heroine’s father had moved to the location of the story. The ending wasn’t done well either, it just stopped. The other two novellas were better in explaining things, the stories seemed more complete.
This is a Christian book and that was very well done. It is not pushy but does show how a Christian lives. The characters were well developed also for a novella. Other than the first story, the plot flowed well also. The editing was fairly well done as well.
4.5 stars- Great, just short of spectacular
Yay for Michelle Griep for coming up with another new book. However, this one is not quite new, but a collection of three novellas that have appeared in other works. Thankfully, I found these, bundled together, whereas I missed them before.
1. The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady was the first story and my favorite. Taking place in Cornwall, England, Helen, the young adult daughter of a dying minister is thrown into the path of an unusual smuggler. Can Helen understand the world is more than black and white? Can Isaac give up his “rightful” revenge against Brannigan? Eventually, the truth comes out that God is sufficient. Sometimes I shake my head at what appears to be characters’ convoluted thinking- but then realize we all have our blind spots. I found lots of quotes to like in this part.
“‘You are all I have left.’ ‘No, child, there is always God.’”
“Those who leave everything in God’s hand will eventually see God’s hand in everything…”
“Sometimes what we see… and what is truth are two different things. The world is not as black and white as you seem to believe.”
“If one cannot trust in God’s provision, then perhaps one has no business professing a faith at all.”
2. The Doctor’s Woman – This was my second favorite. Taking place in 1862 Minnesota, Emmy Nelson arrives at Fort Snelling, where she is needed in her deceased father’s place. She ends up helping Dr. James Clark, there because he needs field experience. As the two get close, will Dr. Clark return east to Harvard? God is indeed watching over this pair, as He watches over all of us, and maps out our futures, too.
3. A House of Secrets- 1890 St. Paul, MN Amanda Carston and her attorney fiancé Joseph are at odds about the old Griggs House and its use. Why is Joseph suddenly secretive and refusing to support her very well-intentioned endeavors? While this wasn’t a favorite, the lessons are obvious: honesty, prejudging, considering one’s own motives better than others’, of self, assuming the worst of others. Pretty much the opposite of the love chapter in the Bible.
I received this book as a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review, and all opinions are solely my responsibility.
Michelle Griep writes wonderful Regency tales filled with history and intrigue. Her latest novel, Ladies of Intrigue, is actually comprised of three novellas. Personally, I don’t enjoy novellas because everything is so rushed, and the plot doesn’t feel complete. With Ladies of Intrigue, the novellas claim to have romance with a dash of mystery, but I did not discern any mystery in any of three novellas. The romance appeared rushed. BUT Griep does a fabulous job at bringing the Regency world to life. The setting shines on the page. As well as Griep’s ability to create characters worth getting to know. I just, personally, wished the novellas were full length novels, so Griep could spend more time developing the romance and the mystery. If you are a fan of novellas and Griep’s other writings or a fan of Sarah E. Ladd and Julie Klassen, then this might be the perfect book for you.
I received a complimentary copy of Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep from Barbour Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.