Three Delightful Christmas Tales from Beloved Storyteller Michelle Griep Pour yourself a cuppa, get lost in the merriment of the season, and enjoy a Dickensian Christmas in three stories from fan favorite Michelle Griep: 12 Days a Bleakly Manor: Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they’ve been striving for isn’t what ultimately matters. What matters … what ultimately matters. What matters most is what Christmas is all about . . . love.
A Tale of Two Hearts: Pleasure seeker William Barlow needs a wife immediately to gain his uncle’s inheritance, and Mina Scott is just the girl to make him look respectable—too bad she turns him down. Ought he give her a second chance?
The Old Lace Shop: Recently widowed Bella White is finally freed from the domination of the overbearing men in her life, but when she enters into a business partnership with the handsome Edmund Archer, she begins to wonder if marriage is worth a second chance.
more
One little coin changes lives at Christmastime…
12 Days a Bleakly Manor: What a story to start with! 12 Days At Bleakly Manor has it all: mystery, danger, romance, quirky characters, a house with secrets of its own, and a lovely holiday setting. I had a fun time reading this book and will definitely be looking for more from this author. I enjoyed trying to puzzle everything out and I was in for some real surprises along with hero and heroine.
A Tale of Two Hearts: A Tale Of Two Hearts was a little different than its predecessor in that there was less adventure and more about the motivations of the hero and heroine themselves. Will and Mina are two of the most delightfully flawed characters. They make mistakes and their relationship is mostly based on deceit as they do all of the wrong things for the right reasons.
The Old Lace Shop: My second favorite of the three, The Old Lace Shop truly is a tale of second chances as everyone in it is in need of a second or even a third chance. I couldn’t help but like the main characters, they’ve both been deeply hurt but they try so hard to rely on their faith to get them through. Toss in some suspense and you get quite the Christmas adventure!
Overall: Whether you are a Dickens fan or not Michelle Griep’s Once Upon A Dickens Christmas is a fun collection of stories. These tales of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances, in a historical romance setting are perfect for reading during the Christmas season or any time really…
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
ONCE UPON A DICKENS CHRISTMAS by Michelle Griep consist of three charming Christmas novellas set in Victorian England. Each of the novellas have similarities in that each one has the subtle reference to Charles Dickens and the use of the second chance coin.
12 DAYS OF BLEAKLLY MANOR is the wonderful story of Clara Chapman and Benjamin Lane and their adventures of the Twelve Days of Christmas.
Clara’s life took a horrible turn when the man she was to have wed, Benjamin, disappeared along with her family’s business’ money leaving them in ruin. Once rejected by her father and then her fiancé with nowhere else to turn, she went to live with her aunt while waiting on her brother to send for her in America.
Benjamin didn’t marry the woman of his dreams, but rather was thrown in jail the day he was to wed under false charges and with no way to get out. His days were spent in getting abused and beaten while trying to figure out who had done this to him and why. Will he ever find out?
Clara and Benjamin each got an invitation to Bleaklly Manor for the Twelve Days of Christmas with a promise attached if they stay for the entire 12 days. Clara is promised $500 which would help her survive since she has nothing. Benjamin is promised his freedom with a clean slate. Will their reunion bring them both the peace they desire? Will they each find out the real truth? Will the promised prize be what they each desire or do they want more? Can there be a second chance?
A TALE OF TWO HEARTS is the story of William Barlow and Mina Scott. Jasper Scott, Mina’s father, owns the Golden Egg Inn where Mina works and where she sees William, a customer and the man she fallen for. William finds himself in need of a wife to wedge out the competition of his cousin for his Uncle Barlow to name him the heir to his estate. Yes, the money would be nice but his motive isn’t for himself but rather to enable him to provide for his mother and pay for her medical bills. When he offhandedly asked Mina to accompany him to his uncle’s tea, surprisingly Mina said yes.
One trip turned into other and still Mina went along with it playing William’s wife. She has strong feelings for William even if they weren’t returned. Besides, being with him showed her father she had absolutely no interest in the man he had promised her to. William finds he likes Mina’s spunk. He likes her period. When they find out about the scheme to have his uncle put away just to get to his money, they both know they have to do whatever necessary to save the elderly man.
Will their scheming and lies save Uncle Barlow or will it turn him against them? Will they find that they have deeper feelings for each other or after the play acting will they part? Can the cousins make peace making it a Happy Christmas? Will the giving of a second chance coin give both William and them a second chance?
THE OLD LACE SHOP is the story of Bella White and Edmund Archer once romantically involved and now business partners.
The only bright spot in Bella’s life was the death of her husband, the man her father had married her off to when Edmund disappeared. He had been very cruel to Clara both physically and mentally. Having inherited his estate, she sells it all off except for one company – the Nottingham Lace and Hose. Feeling the need to prove she is worthy and can take control of her life, she decided to keep her 51% interest in the company moving there to live and work.
Edmund is determined to buy out Mrs. White’s shares and become sole owner. He needs this company to provide for his handicapped daughter. She is his world. His deceased wife thought she should have been put away, but he knows she’s a joy and brightens his world.
Although heads clash at first, they learn to work off each other using the best qualities of the other. Edmund is horrified at how Bella was treated by both her father and husband. Bella falls in love with Flora, Edmunds’ daughter, and finds herself falling for Edmund again.
Can the two of them save the company and make it better than before? In the process, can they make a difference in the life’s of many burdened by the hardships of the business? Both have been burnt before, can finding out the real truth about the past set them free? Is it possible for a second chance? Can they learn from the past to make the best future possible?
Michelle Griep does a fabulous job in writing three wonderful novellas to make up ONCE UPON A DICKENS CHRISTMAS. Each story is a delight to read in itself, but together they bring out the best of each of us making us want to experience Christmas in Victorian England all year long. Love the idea of the second chance coin! We can all use a second chance from time to time. Maybe it truly is better to give than receive because I can see where giving a second chance coin, brings back as much freedom and love as to the one you gifted it to. Really enjoyed the historical notes at the end of each novella.
Highly recommend this inspiring Christian book to everyone that loves well-crafted stories of second chances that will have you feeling the emotions of the characters, leave you happy and feeling a little bit better about your fellow man.
Written by the talented Michelle Griep, Once Upon a Dickens Christmas is a beautiful novella collection featuring three stories that are thoroughly engaging and wholly entertaining.
The collection begins with 12 Days at Bleakly Manor. Set during a dreary winter in Victorian England, this novella creatively explores the themes of loss, love, redemption, faith, and forgiveness through a diverse cast of entertaining and compelling characters. The well-paced plot, brimming with gothic mystery and eerie intrigue, deftly draws the reader fully into the story. As the mysteries unfold, heartwarming scenes provide a balance to those that are heavy with heartbreak. Abounding with surprises and unexpected twists, this novella is genuinely captivating and satisfying. It is a well-crafted story that is uniquely memorable for all the right reasons.
A Tale of Two Hearts, the second novella in the collection, is truly a delightful story. In this novella, Ms. Griep displays a remarkable talent for writing stunningly descriptive sentences that never fail to evoke emotional responses in the reader. The words she sows thoughtfully on the page are like seeds from which feelings, thoughts, and moods grow. Like deep, green vines, her descriptions take root and wind around the reader’s heart and imagination. A Tale of Two Hearts is lush with writing that makes the characters, setting, plot, and themes vibrant with life and authenticity.
The characters in this novella are exceptionally engaging and endearing. Within the span of just a few pages, the characters feel like old friends, and their concerns, hopes, and dreams become a shared experience with the reader. Furthermore, the intrigue, suspense, and romance within the pages, combined with the Victorian Christmas setting, ensure that this novella is utterly compelling and extremely enjoyable.
The final novella in the collection is The Old Lace Shop. Written in the first person perspectives of the two main characters, this story is touching and unforgettable. With meaningful themes of generosity and compassion, this novella is remarkably moving and edifying. Its gripping plot provides plenty of mystery and romance to ponder and savor, and its characters are authentically relatable and memorable. It certainly succeeds at providing a felicitous ending to a wonderful novella collection.
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas includes three stories of second glances and second chances. With new possibilities and new perspectives, they are stories of perseverance and forgiveness. This novella collection offers stories of reconciliation and renewed hope that beautifully depict the gift of God’s grace that is freely offered to all. Like a timeless Christmas tradition, Once Upon a Dickens Christmas is a book that should be revisited again and again. It is charming, inspiring, and immensely satisfying. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas
A delightful collection of three historical Christmas Romances by Christian Fiction author, Michelle Griep. Two of them are from earlier releases from Christmases past, but the last story The Lace Shop is new this year. Charles Dickenson makes brief appearances in all three stories. These stories take place in the mid 1800s in England.
I absolutely loved the cover. I enjoyed each story but the last one was definitely my favorite. I would even say it was edge of seat reading a time or two. I loved how the author ended most chapters with a situation that enticed readers to quickly dig into the next chapter. All three stories in one way or another involves an old gold coin. A few characters work their way from one story to another. Michelle Griep is a new to me writer and I was very impressed with this book. I will be reading more of her novels.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor
A small group of about eight people,strangers to one another, except two of them, get a formal invitation to spend the twelve days of Christmas at a beautiful English Manor in the country. Each one is promised a reward for completing the entire twelve day stay. Upon arrival the guests find a house without a host or hostess. Things are not as they thought it would be. Not Everyone will finish their stay at Bleakly Manor. In fact only one person will complete the stay and get the promised reward . Each morning of their stay the guests received an agenda they were to do that day. Can anything good come from staying in a large unfamiliar house without a host or hostess?
A Tale of Two Hearts
It always pays to be truthful and not lead people on with a lie. One Lie will often lead to more lies and one can find themselves in quite a predicament that’s hard to get out of. A young man hopes to win favor from an elderly rich Uncle , who can’t decide who he wants to leave his wealth to. The catch is that the inheritance depends on whether the receiver is married or not. The one nephew seeks help from a young bar maid and talks her into playing the role of his wife in order to deceive the elderly Uncle. What he doesn’t realize is that the young lady has had a crush on him for over a year. Will this lie blow up in their faces?
The Lace Shop
A widow of a very wealthy business man is left with a small fortune. Her marriage to her late husband has not been a happy one for he was very abusive towards her. Finally being free of him she decides to keep one of his many businesses and take it over herself. Trouble is that there is another owner of this business who hopes to buy out all of her husband’s shares of the business and become the sole owner. In the 1800s it’s a man’s world when it comes to business. The widow will be the majority owner and must stand up to her business partner and stand her ground. Can she do it and gain respect from her partner, who feels a woman’s place is in the home ?
All readers of historical English Romance will appreciate this book. Readers of Christian Fiction and fans of Michelle Griep will enjoy it. If I could have gave it six stars I would have because I thoroughly enjoyed each story. I hope that you will make it a part of your Christmas reading schedule this year.
I won a Kindle ebook copy of this book in a goodreads giveaway. A favorable review was not requested. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Author Michelle Griep is an incredible writer, who takes her reader straight to Old England in this compilation of Christmas stories. With quirky, lovable characters these Christmas stories are wonderful for reading at any time of the year.
I thoroughly enjoyed Griep’s descriptions of places and people Of course these stories show us what England was like in those days, which is fun to learn about. Woven throughout is the love of God and the reminder that He is here to help us.
If you enjoy “Dickensesque” stories with clean romance then this is the book for you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but I was not required to leave a review.
Once Upon A Dickens Christmas is absolutely wonderful! Each of the stories are so unique and have great characters! I love how each story has its own little twist. These stories are a very quick and enjoyable read. I loved it! I highly recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Three wonderful Christmas Tales! Each is filled with wonderful characters, second chances, and a wonderous feeling of love.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor has a mystery that drew me in from the first invitation.
A Tale of Two Hearts is a wonderful story of second chances for many of the characters. I loved Mina and Will.
The Old Lace Shop is a surprising second chance at life and maybe even love for Bella. I loved the story so much. I feel the need to warn other readers, grab a tissue or two before you read the last chapter and Epilogue.
I love the second chance coin and the meaning it holds.
Michelle Griep has become part of my Christmas tradition with her Dickens style Christmas tales. I highly recommend reading or listening to this collection!
Nan McNamara does a wonderful job narrating.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas is a collection of three stories set in Victorian England around–you guessed it–Christmas. The stories are connected by the mysterious second-chance coin which shows up unexpectedly in the characters’ lives. Griep creates fantastic characters that you can’t help but love and root for, even when they’re in slightly odd situations. And don’t even get me started on the spiritual takeaways. All of the stories are, of course, about second chances (hence the second-chance coin), but there are also other lessons. And these rich, fantastic storylines set in a distant period of history intersect so well with our current lives, that you can’t help but take a lesson with you when you close the book. Overall, I highly recommend this book, especially if you need a stocking stuffer or two. These wonderful Christmas stories are filled with substance and food for thought as well as a nice reminder that the first Christmas was about the world’s second chance.
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas was my first read by this author and I really enjoyed her writing style. I listened on audio, and each of the three stories were equally delightful. I loved the references to Charles Dickens and second chance coins, and how Griep wove a spiritual thread through the stories. If you love Historical Christmas Fiction, you’ll enjoy this offering.
I so enjoyed this charming Christmas collection with the Dickens twist! Set in Victorian England these stories will delight readers. I look forward to more stories from Ms. Griep!
Recommend to readers who enjoy Victorian Christmas stories.
I won a copy. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
This collection of Christmas novellas by Michelle Griep is a Dickensian delight!
This is my first book that I have read my Michelle Griep. I found it for a good deal at Ollie’s and it not only had an attractive cover, but if also has the pages I like that have uneven edges. Both of those things plus that it is a Christmas book drew me to wanting to read it. This novel is a collection of three novellas, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, A Tale of Two Hearts, and The Old Lace Shop, all by Michelle Griep. All three novellas are slightly related and all of them are excellent reads. You will not be disappointed if you pick this book to read not just at Christmas but anytime of the year. Each story reminds you that it is good to give people second chances. They all have romance in the story and some intrigue as well.
Not only does Once Upon a Dickens Christmas have a positively stunning cover, the three tales inside are captivating from beginning to end. Each tale is a standalone but they are connected in a rather unique way. I recommend this book if you like Victorian Era Christmas stories.
Three novellas. Rarely like novellas but liked these. Really start rooting for characters. Very unusual plots. Enjoyed.
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas by wordsmith extraordinaire Michelle Griep is a delightful collection of Christmas novellas. The first thing of notice is how thick this 450 page collection is. It has an eye-catching cover and old fashioned rough cut edges. This is a beautiful edition.
Author Griep does an excellent job drawing readers into her stories. Each one of these three tales grabbed my attention early and kept it throughout the entire story. I was invested within a few pages. Griep’s writing style is a pleasant prose that flows effortlessly in a smooth rhythm.
These three novellas are set in 1850’s Victorian England. They are tied together by a second chance coin, a twist of Charles Dickens, a bit of mystery, and inspirational spiritual content.
They are all so good!
I highly recommend this to lovers of historical fiction romances. It would make a lovely gift. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by the publisher but these are my honest thoughts.
Three novellas perfect for the Christmas season! With creative plots (mystery dinner ala the 12 days of Christmas, anyone?), quirky characters (ala Charles Dickens), romance, a little suspense, and second chances, all under a bough of mistletoe and holly–what’s there not to like?
Thank you Barbour Publishing for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Once Upon A Dickens Christmas:
Three Charming Christmas Tales
By: Michelle Griep
*REVIEW*
First, I have to remark about the beautiful cover and deckled edges of Once Upon A Dickens Christmas. It is really lovely. This book is a collection of three novellas set in Victorian England. These are clean Christian fiction stories. Obviously, they all share some aspects reminiscent of the works of Charles Dickens, as well as cameos of the writer himself.
~12 Days At Bleakly Manor~
In this story, a few strangers each receive an invitation to spend 12 days at Bleakly Manor. Anyone who stays the entire 12 days will receive a reward. This place, however, is no bed and breakfast. There is no host and few supplies. As it turns out, two of the strangers know one another. Benjamin and Clara have a history, and now, they have a second chance at love. Will they survive the 12 day stay and begin again once this adventure is done? It’s a mysterious and intriguing story with engaging characters, and I enjoyed reading it.
~A Tale Of Two Hearts~
Two cousins are competing for the chance of a great inheritance from their Uncle Barlow. The only condition is the receiver must be married. William is not married, but he persuades Mina to be his pretend wife. Mina has long held feelings for William, but does he reciprocate? Is he using her for personal gain only? Will their charade convince Uncle Barlow? This is a charming entertaining story. I always like the fake spouse trope, and this one is delightfully well done.
~The Old Lace Shop~
Recently widowed, Arabella is glad to be free of her late husband and his abusive ways. She sells most of his property and moves to the remaining lace factory in Nottingham. To her surprise, their is a co-owner, Edmund, who is actually Arabella’s true love. Perhaps fate has brought them back together for a second chance? Time will tell. Arabella is a warm and loving character who cares for others. She was my favorite of all three stories. Each story centers around the theme of second chances and a special gold coin appears in every one. They can be read in order or as standalones. I loved all of them, and this collection is perfect for the holiday season.
Three delightful stories. Perfect for the Season!
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas
By Michelle Griep
This book is actually a 3-in-1 book that includes the following stories: 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, A Tale of Two Hearts, and The Old Lace Shop. These stories are each complete in themselves but there is a link between them. First, they are set in the time when Charles Dickens’s works were new and popular. Second, there is a character who is secondary in nature who is in two stories. Third, there is a second chance coin that in all three stories and it passes through several hands as the stories progress.
Now to the individual stories themselves.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor finds Clara Chapman presented with an opportunity – the chance to obtain 500 pounds. Meanwhile, Ben Lane is presented with the chance to gain his freedom from the prison that has been his home these last 9 months. Both believe the other guilty of betrayal on the day that they were to wed when they are brought together at Bleakly Manor. They are not the only ones promised a long wanted desire. But to obtain it there are a few rules – only those who can last all twelve days will gain the promise. And staying is not going to be easy as it seems someone wants to be sure all others are out of the way.
A Tale of Two Hearts finds William Barlow in need of a wife. Will needs a wife to prove to his Uncle Barlow that he is a changed man and worthy of being named his heir. But Will’s cousin Percy is also in the running to be named heir. With the help of Mina Scott, Will hopes to convince his uncle that he is married. But when the expected announcement is pushed off to a later date Mina’s heart is in danger as she and Will have to play their role longer as they seek to save Uncle Barlow from a scheme that will see his life ruined. Can something more come out of this deception?
The Old Lace Shop finds Bella White determined to be a woman of independence – she never wants to be under the cruel thumb of another man. With her husband’s death, she is free to pursue the life she wants and she is going to assume his majority partnership in the Nottingham Lace and Hose. What she never expected was that she would become a business partner with Edmund Archer the man who broke her heart and left her behind. Can this business partnership be a second chance at love or will it be the ruination of all Bella’s plans?
These are enjoyable reads and those who prefer clean, gentle reads will love these three Christmas tales. It is interesting finding all the little Dickens tidbits scattered throughout the stories. Overall the book is 440 pages but is the total number for all 3 stories so each is approximately 130 to 160 pages long – perfect for a long afternoon of reading and enjoying tea. Each has historical notes at the end of the story to explain just what certain things were in relation to the historical period in which the story takes place.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own
Three unique Christmas stories. Each story brings the possibility of romance. Great to read at Christmas time and any time of the year. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.