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.
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I have enjoyed all three tales in Once Upon a Dickens Christmas. They can each be read on their own, but why would you want to read just one of these charming novellas. 12 Days at Bleakly Manor is a well-crafted and entertaining novel. It is short, but it is packed full of action and intrigue. The mystery was delightful (see if you can figure out the culprit in this one) and the characters interesting. I like the Christian beliefs expressed in the story (compassion, prayer, faith, forgiveness, second chances, God is in control, trust, and hope). The Christian theme is light, but the point is gotten across. In A Tale of Two Hearts, Michelle Griep brought London in 1853 to life with her descriptions of the clothing, language, literature as well the architecture, cobbled streets, the inn and the insides of the buildings as well as the class stations of the characters. I especially loved the imagery of Purcell’s where they had tea with Uncle Barlow. A Tale of Two Hearts has delightful characters. I especially liked Uncle Barlow and Miss Whymsy. They are two charming people who have a touch of whimsy. There are some good life lessons included in the story. Second chances, forgiveness and Christian charity being the main themes. Every one of us has needed a second chance at one time or another. The book is told from William and Mina’s point-of-views giving us different perspectives. It is always fascinating to see how different men think from woman. There are references to Charles Dickens work scattered throughout the story. The Old Lace Shop is a well-crafted story with a good flow. I thought the characters were developed and realistic for the time period. Bella arrives in Nottingham and is surprised to see blind women outside begging for assistance. She soon learns that they lost their eyesight making lace. The kindhearted Bella wants to find a way to help them plus she has other improvements in mind for the factory much to Edmund’s dismay. We see the importance of faith and prayer. How we need to rely on God and turn our worries over to him. All three stories are captivating, but 12 Days at Bleakly Manor is my favorite. If you enjoy historical stories, you will not be disappointed with Once Upon a Dickens Christmas. It was interesting to see how Dickens came into play in each novella. I like how the author gave us three diverse yet complimentary tales. Once Upon a Dickens Christmas contains three engaging novellas that will put you in the mood for Christmas.
This is a wonderful set of three Christmas stories. Each of these stories are really good. All three have great characters and we learn some great lessons. The three tales are 12 Days of Bleakly Manor, A Tale of Two Hearts and The Old Lace Shop.i loved all three stories but I think my favorite was The Old Lace Shop. This story had the best characters and my favorite lesson. They all had some twists and turns. I did not like putting down the book when I got to The Old Lace Shop. I also loved to read a little about how these factories ran. I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
I loved this collection of three Dickens-inspired stories. They are very different stories but they are all linked by the thread of second chances and trusting God to make things right. The author created characters that came alive and made me care about them, both main characters and secondary ones. I love Christmas stories and these three were some special ones. I would recommend this collection.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
The author has offered us three stories to get lost in, we travel back in time to old England and Charles Dicken’s appears or is mentioned in each of the reads.
The time period of Dickens is what threads these stories together, and you will be quickly immersed in each read.
There is a common theme of forgiveness and giving a second chance, and you get to journey to how things are resolved. Be ready for danger, and you won’t know what is about to happen next, but also won’t be able to put this one down and once you finish one you will be moving to the next!
I received this book through the Publisher Barbour and was not required to give a positive review.
People who enjoy Victorian novels and Charles Dickens will be thrilled with this new release from Michelle Griep. Once Upon A Dickens Christmas is a collection of three of Griep’s novellas that allude to the works of Charles Dickens and her tales rival those penned by Dickens himself. All three of these stories are set in London in the 1850s and the characters and plots will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading them. I loved that Charles Dickens makes cameo appearances and that all three feature a gold coin, second chances, and the possibility of love and romance at different stages of life.
The romances are certainly what we’ve come to expect in Victorian romance novels and Griep’s descriptions of the London countryside and the Christmas traditions made me feel as though I was truly living during the era of Charles Dickens. Once Upon A Dickens Christmas promises to become a book that will be read and enjoyed each Christmas season!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas by Michelle Griep boasts a beautiful cover, deckled pages, and the pleasing thickness afforded by three novellas. Included in this collection are: 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, A Tale of Two Hearts, and The Old Lace Shop. Of the three, The Old Lace Shop was my favorite.
All three novellas had highly interesting plots, themes about second chances, and brief cameos by Charles Dickens. The mystery in 12 Days at Bleakly Manor was particularly well-done. I enjoyed the romantic tension in A Tale of Two Hearts. Nearly all the characters in The Old Lace Shop have an intriguing struggle to deal with. I think each of the stories would have made amazing full-length novels. However, as they were constrained by the novella length, the plots progressed quickly and offered limited character development.
Overall, the novellas were entertaining and I don’t regret giving them a try (which is actually a compliment given my dislike for most novellas). I’m a fan of Michelle Griep’s full-length novels and I’m happy to add this to my collection of her works even though it’s not my favorite from her. I recommend to readers who enjoy shorter historical romances with Christian themes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
12 Days at Bleakley Manor: This book takes place in 1850 at an English manor home. Clara is invited to spend the 12 days of Christmas at Bleakley Manor in exchange for a large sum of money. A strange assortment of people have also been invited but where is the host? Ben, Clara’s former fiance, is the strongest character in the book. If you enjoy humor in your reading, this book may be for you!
A Tale of Two Hearts: Mina Scott loves books but has to hide her reading from her father who owns the Golden Egg Inn in 1850s London. Mina shows lots of spunk when she agrees to pose as the bride of a handsome customer William Barlow! You’ll enjoy the older Miss Whymsy and William’s uncle, Charles Barlow.
The Old Lace Shop: You will admire Mrs. Bella White whose late husband was abusive. On his death, Bella determines to never be dependant on a man again! Thankfully she is now a wealthy woman and Bella decides to be an active partner in one of the businesses left to her! Imagine Edmund Archer’s shock when Bella shows up at the lace factory ready learn the business! Plus, Edmund and Bella were once in love before her father gave her to Mr. White. Bella has many ideas about changes to the factory! The Old Lace Shop was my favorite of the Once Upon a Dickens Christmas collection.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
A delightful trio of Victorian Christmas tales from the fabulous Michelle Griep. Styled after Charles Dickens’ tales, the author’s writing style, her vivid descriptions of historical settings, and wonderful characters in intriguing situations, will make you feel as if you are in the midst of the action. The book itself is beautiful, an apt presentation for the Christmas delights inside.
For it is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child himself.”
A Christmas Carol
12 Days at Bleakly Manor
This Christmas story, sure to one day be a classic, kept me intrigued right up until the end. What a great Christmas movie this would make with its blend of quirky characters! Names that almost seemed to be made up by the characters themselves had me chuckling. Names like Miss Scurry, Mr. Minnow, Inspector Pocket, Mademoiselle Pretents, and Mr. Tallgrass. Each were at Bleakly Manor by invitation and a promise of 500 pounds if they stuck it out for 12 days. After all were assembled including Clara Chapman and Ben Lane, the butler announced that only one would be receiving the monetary award, the last one left in the manor. Like on a game show almost, accidents kept happening, one by one numbers dwindled as some left. For such a fine manor, heat was scarce, and food was almost non-existent, and what little was served was very undesirable. The mystery of who the host was and the feeling of eyes staring wherever they went kept an eerie feeling about the rooms. I found myself holding my breath many times as strange and unexplained things began to happen. This was my kind of Christmas story!
A Tale of Two Hearts
We are in 1855 London and Mina Scott works with her father in his Inn serving ale and various other tasks. She tries to find a few minutes here and there in her dreary life to read from borrowed books loaned by a friend. She loves living in her made up dream world every chance she gets.
When her secret crush, William Barlow, offers her an opportunity, although only temporary to escape and “be a real lady”, she jumps at the chance. As she and William get more and more entangled in deception, they find it harder and harder to come clean.
The story was enjoyable and heartwarming. I was drawn to the characters almost immediately, except for a couple of “villains” that came into focus a few chapters in. This was a pleasant way to get into the holiday spirit and start celebrating the Lord’s Birthday a little early.
The Old Lace Shop
Bella White was a very lovable character. I felt for her eight years in an abusive marriage. She is a very compassionate woman for those less fortunate and downtrodden. She also vows to be independent of men after her husband passes away. She sells all her husband’s holdings except for one, Nottingham Lace and Hose. She has fifty one percent possession of this company and decides she wants to move, learn about the manufacturer of lace, and be an active partner. Edmund Archer, the other part owner, is struggling to keep the business going. He is shocked to learn of Mrs. White’s intentions. Women are just not seen working in such a position. How do they make this work?
One of the quotes from the book that caught my attention: “Either your faith will move mountains, or your doubt will create them.”
One item that shows up in each of these stories is a well worn second chance gold coin. I love the meaning of it and who and why it’s given to in these novellas.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas is a book with three wonderful stories taking place in Victorian England during the 1800’s. I say wonderful because I loved each one so much!
The first, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor is great mystery with hysterical characters. Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. The love interest was clean and refreshing. It was a true page-turner based in 1850. The characters had not only unusual names but also quirky personalities (except for the main characters). All the guests were invited to spend 12 days in a mansion and the only one who made it the whole time without leaving was given a reward of various kinds depending on that person. Many dangerous situations abounded with surprising results.This is a great book to escape into!
The second story is A Tale of Two Hearts with Mina who fills in as a pretend wife temporarily to help her friend William win an inheritance. As the lies unfold, oh, the problems that occur! I was on the edge of my seat as I read until the end!
The third story is The Old Lace Shop that we find Bella, recently widowed, that takes her on an adventure to find meaning in her new life alone. She travels to a small town as the majority held owner of a lace factory. She’s never worked at a job, let alone a factory with machines! Her business partnership with Edmund is quite the series of happenings!
This is totally a must read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Three Dickens-Esque tales set in Victorian England at Christmas in one collection? Written by Michelle Griep? Yes, please!
12 days at Bleakly Manor:
Speaking of tension, how about Clara and Ben? They both feel the other wronged them, but they are both good people deep down and spending time together reminds them of better times. Clara’s tenderhearted kindness not only impacts Ben but the other guests as well. And despite her betrayal of him, Ben is determined to protect Clara from whatever is going on in the strange manor house.
When cozy mystery, Clue, and a little Charles Dickens are brought together, what results is a fun read. As the weather starts to turn from summer to autumn, this is the perfect book to pull out with a cup of tea and keep you warm on one of those cooler evenings.
A Tale of Two Hearts:
Is there anything more discouraging than unrequited love? Mina Scott discovers that, yes, there is as she agrees to play the part of William Barlow’s wife. And that’s not all Mina has to deal with. There are plenty of secrets and questions about William’s family—and his past. Mina’s tender heart will not allow a good man to be hurt, so she finds herself agreeing to the charade much longer than she originally agreed upon. Can her heart survive the duplicity?
Michelle Griep delivers another fantastic holiday read with heart, hope, and plenty of Dickens. As Mina and William find, sometimes miracles come in the form of second chances.
The Old Lace Shop:
Second chances, a lace manufacturer, and subterfuge. Arabella and Edmund were young and in love when they separated. Years later, they come face to face at the Lace and Hose Shop. As expected, time has changed them both. Friends, second chances, a sweet little girl, and moments of danger all made this story one I could put down.
You are sure to find a favorite in this collection of Victorian Christmas tales.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Between the pages are stories that are exciting and breathtaking. Two of the stories have previously been published with the addition of a new story to complete this beautiful book. The author really captures the Victorian era and treats readers to a look at a time period that was intriguing and fun.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor
I enjoyed going to back in time to the late 1800s and finding very interesting historical facts scattered throughout the book. It definitely reads like a Charles Dickens story, but with a bit more flair of intrigue. The characters were quirky and somewhat hard to keep up with. I thought there was a lot going on in the book with so many characters.
I did like the idea of a group of people ascending upon a manor house to spend Christmas. Their task was to be the last person there and be rewarded handsomely. Clara is not sure about the invitation, but with a promise for money to help her family, she decides to go. I’m not sure I would go traipsing off to a strange place so quickly.
Ben is my favorite character. He has been wrongly accused of stealing from Clara’s family and sent to prison. It was no surprise to me that he would be one of the guests of the manor. There is friction between Clara and Ben when they first see each other. Clara believes Ben ruined her family business. Perhaps she was more upset by the fact that he had left her at the altar. It is a good story with emotions that run high at times , but overall a story that gives hope and peace to all.
A Tale of Two Hearts
It’s another charming tale from a very talented author that takes us back to London in 1853. I loved how the author did a great job describing the time period. You can feel yourself there looking on as Mina shares her love of reading. I found that to be very endearing and made me love the character even more. She is quite a lovely person with a heart of gold. She how a sweet disposition and wants so badly to help others in need. However, her father has ideas on what Mina should be doing and it certainly isn’t reading or lending a helping hand.
William Barlow seems to be a nice enough fellow but when he asks Mina to do something for him that is not really honest, I wasn’t sure if he had her best interest at heart. William is getting a bit ahead of himself as he tries to deceive his uncle. Uncle Barlow was the star in this story for me. I chuckled at the things he had William and Percy do to win him over. They are so desperate to be declared his heir that they scheme at some questionable ideas. I kept thinking how Uncle Barlow must be enjoying their silly notions.
The story is a wonderful journey through London as family members squabble over such meaningless treasures. Mina is torn between helping William because she has secretly loved him, and being honest and telling Uncle Barlow the truth. I loved how these characters experience forgiveness, being honest and remembering how important family is.
The Old Lace Shop
I really enjoyed this story because it takes an unlikely turn as Bella decides to keep one of her late husbands shops instead of selling it. The journey for her will be filled with resistance and an unexpected surprise waiting for her. What are the odds that Bella is now partnered with someone from her past? There is not a lot of joy when they meet again and this allows the author to explore a relationship that is fragile. The characters are easy to relate to and loved how they discover surprises, danger, and much more in this story that fills the pages with hope and forgiveness.
Edmund is none to pleased to see Bella. Thoughts from the past creep up and he quickly tries to bury them deep in his soul. He is in for changes as he learns that Bella will be working beside him to grow the business. I don’t think I would be overjoyed to see someone waltzing into to my shop with an air of ownership. There is friction as Bella stands her ground and assures Edmund she is there to stay. It is a wonderful story of a woman who takes on a leadership role and a man who is not quite sure what his feelings are as the shop starts to change .
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
This collection is a sweeping and captivating one that is set in the 1850’s in London. Each tale is around Christmastime with intrigue, mystery, romance, faith, a second chance gold coin and Charles Dickens’ quotes and appearance. Two of the novellas were released previously with The Old Lace Shop being new for this Christmas season. Each novella can be read as a standalone, although, characters from the prior short story are mentioned in the next release.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor found an odd assortment of individuals being commanded to go to the Bleakly Manor for 12 days starting on Christmas Eve. The manor was not what the guests expected since there was no host/hostess present. The hired hands were not to accommodating with a lack of nutritious meals with the guests assigned chores each day. When they were invited they had been promised a reward, only to find out only one would receive the large reward. Each day brought new adventures along with some leaving before the end of the 12 days. The mystery surrounding lives almost being lost and accusations against some gave way to tense moments. A must be read tale.
A Tale of Two Hearts explored the interactions of William Barlow and Mina Scott. Mina was a young lady working with her dad at the Golden Egg Inn. William frequented the inn often and made a proposition to Mina. William wanted the inheritance from his uncle, but the stipulations were high. His cousin Percy and spouse were just as deceitful in other ways against Uncle Barlow. This tale was fast paced with all the twists and turns along with more than one resolution and romance.
The Old Lace Shop brought Bella White and Edmund Archer together when Bella moved to Nottingham after the death of her abusive husband. Bella was determined that The Old Lace Shop could be renovated for those less fortunate who had lost their eye site from working in lace factories. She was not prepared for all the challenges she faced. This tale is filled with escapades that kept the pages turning from deceitful employees, business owners and others who wanted to ensure that Nottingham Lace and Hose did not succeed. The tenderness shown by Bella to all, especially Flora who was a special needs child brought tears. I loved this novella with new beginnings, renewed faith, romance and so much more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation t post a review. I have expressed my own opinion. I highly recommend this collection to fans of Victorian Era filled with Dickens, Christmas, faith, action and romance.
I’ve always enjoyed stories by Michelle Griep, so to have a three-in-one was like opening an extra special Christmas present! Which is exactly what these are based on, Christmas. Step back in time and walk in the Victorian era, Dickens classics come to life.
Each story has its unique blend of cast, characters, plot and a little mystery behind them. I like the recurrence of a “second chance coin” that blended these three together beautifully. I also loved how circumstances brought two people together and how by the end, they fell in love. If I had to choose a “favorite” among them, I’d have to go with “The Old Lace Shop” as it reminds me of “North & South”. My favorite four-part TV show made into full length movie in the history of movies! And let’s not forget the unique dialogue Griep uses to tell these tales of old; all in her own writers voice that I know so well. I’ve never been disappointed by any of her novels and know I’m in for a treat with each story she pens!
If you’re looking for those perfect Christmasy reads for the holidays, be sure to pick up “Once Upon a Dickens Christmas”!
“You see, my dear, real joy is not found in the best moments of life, but in trusting that God is making the best of every moment…” A Tale of Two Hearts.
*I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing through Netgalley and was not obligated to leave a review. *
This review will focus on the third tale, The Old Lace Shop, as I have previously read, enjoyed, and reviewed the first two titles included in this larger compilation, Once Upon a Dickens Christmas.
As with her longer works, Griep’s writing is beautiful—the prose creates word pictures that had me rereading passages to absorb everything they had to convey. The first several sentences are a prime example: “I have long abhorred black. It is a great abyss, sucking in the colours of the rainbow and wringing the life from them. The moniker of death.” Many passages captured my imagination in the same way.
Taking place in a lace factory, there are many historical details that help flesh-out the story for the reader, and not just about manufacturing. Caring for the poor, working conditions, child-labor, and wages are all addressed, but there are no easy answers within the pages. Everyone has to eat, and finding the balance between helping others and supporting oneself is difficult to find in Victorian times.
This is a sometimes-poignant story about the hope of second chances, especially when the first attempt ended in disaster and heartbreak. It’s not just in the arena of romance, however. The largest focus is that of life and what we do when our dreams are splintered so finely that even imagining a different outcome feels dangerous. The characters have each experienced such pain and loss that relating to them is natural.
But it is not all doom and gloom; the best part of this story is the hope that permeates the pages, that things can be better, that God has not abandoned us, that tomorrow can be better than yesterday, even when things look bleak.
This Christmas collection is perfect for the season and would make an excellent gift for a fan of Dickens or who enjoys stories set during the Victorian era. Those who like romance or perhaps something a little shorter during the busy holiday season will find excellent stories here, well-crafted and with compelling characters, despite their shorter length. I give it my highest recommendation.
I received a review copy of this book from the author but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
“I may be uneducated in the ways of business, but there is one thing I know. Either your faith will move mountains, or your doubt will create them.”
~Bella, The Old Lace Shop
Griep does a good job depicting Victorian era locales; homes, businesses, countryside. I could ‘see’ the finery and manners, or lack thereof, of each character. Scruffy and dirty and/or neat and tidy, they all came alive in my mind. Each story is full of drama, mystery, romance, and human condition. Grab a copy of this illuminating trio and settle in for a few hours of Dickensian delight!
I received a copy from the publisher and author. No review was required. No compensation received.
This book contained three stories that were sweet and clean and wonderful. Each story progressively wove a character or two from a previous story to tie the stories together. There is also a “second chance coin” that makes its way through each of the three stories, as well.
Each story reminded me of another victorian romance that I had read before. Each story was unique but subtly reminded me of those other stories.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a series of feel good stories that have happy endings. In each story, the main character has a difficult circumstances to overcome to find true happiness.
With Michelle Griep at the helm I know I will enjoy a good story and this one was just as delightful!
Each story has it’s own charm and I loved seeing the world through these characters’ lives!
I wanted to read each story one at a time but of course that didn’t happen at all!!! They were just begging to be read all at once!!
I enjoyed going back to the 12 days at Bleakly Manor but the other two I hadn’t read before.
Michelle has done a great job in her writing style by adding the Charles Dickens feel to these marvelous stories.
I think my favorite thing about these stories are the second chances and how each person benefits from it.
I quite agree with another reader about feeling the Christmas spirit all year round. It all has to do with what’s truly in our hearts y’all!!
This book will make a great gift for your friends, family. We need to spread the love readers!!
The cover y’all is just beautiful and yellow is my favorite color!! The story was just wow!! I can’t wait for y’all to read this awesome book!
I’m rereading it again at Christmas. This was just too good to pass up!
My thanks for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own
I have enjoyed each of the three stories in this charming Dickens Christmas collection. The first two stories, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor and A Tale of Two Hearts each were first printed on their own. The new story in this collection is The Old Lace Shop. Since I have previously reviewed (and loved) the first two stories on their own, I will focus my attention on this review primarily with the new story, The Old Lace Shop.
Right from the very first page our heroine, Bella captured my sympathies and my heart. She chose to rise above the situation she found herself in and grab life by the reigns. Unconventional and determined, Bella is a strong heroine. I enjoyed watching her grow in this story.
Edmund Archer kept me on my toes. One moment I liked him, and the next I wanted to purse-whomp him. He was full of surprises! He isn’t the picture-perfect hero, he has his flaws. But just maybe that is what makes him so endearing, and unforgettable.
The setting of the story, while industrial, and dreary in its drab corner of England, is lit by its vivacious characters that rise above the backdrop and add color and life into their surroundings. I appreciate the fact that the author invites us into a less seldom view of a Victorian Christmas.
This collection of stories makes the perfect gift for the book-lover on your list and it is sure to become your new favorite Christmas tradition!
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
“12 Days at Bleakly Manor”
I, personally, have never read anything by Michelle Griep. I do have a number of her books downloaded to my Kindle, but I haven’t had the time to read them yet. The book 12 Days at Bleakly Manor was my first introduction to Griep’s writing. With the setting being in London, I was interested in the plot right away. The story is a historical romance, so I was pretty sure the historical setting with the characters would be interesting.
Griep’s writing is top notch. I had no problem picturing Bleakly Manor at all. Griep sprinkled in just enough description to capture my attention as Clara and Ben moved through the house. I could feel the cold outside and imagine that I was belonged in the house during the twelve days of Christmas. She did a great job at inviting me into the Manor just like she did her characters.
The characters were interesting too. I loved the strange cast of characters that she used to tell her story. All of them were different, but each one of them had their own vices that made them stand out. I loved seeing Clara and Ben interact after so much trials and misunderstanding which had affected their relationship. They were a nice couple to watch as they loved blossomed after their misunderstanding came to light.
As for the plot, it did remind me of the 1980’s movie Clue, but with a British Christmas twist. I enjoy the mystery. The entire time I couldn’t wait to meet who the master of the house was. Griep did a great job at intertwining the mystery into the Christmas story. When I started the novel, I was drawn in right away to the plot. I had a hard time believing it was a novella. Most novellas feel short and not fully developed, but I didn’t feel this way with Griep’s novel. It felt complete, and I really can’t wait for the next addition. Next fall seems too far away.
Overall, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor captured my interest because of the mystery, London setting, and the Christmas time of the year. I highly recommend this book to fans of Charles Dickens and fans of a good mystery. I can’t wait to see what the next book entails.
I received a complimentary copy of 12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep from Barbour Books, but the opinions stated are all my own.
(A previous review of the individual novella.)
“A Tale of Two Hearts”
Christmas. London. Victorian era. What could be the better makings for a novel? Maybe some suspense. But Michelle Griep creates a wonderful short story that fits in with the makings of a true Dicken’s novel. I enjoyed the first book in the series entitled 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on A Tale of Two Heart too. Boy, am I glad I did. The story comes to life and brings the good feelings that Christmas brings only a couple of months earlier.
I really enjoy traveling to London during the Victorian age with Griep. She wove together a timeless love story filled with intrigue and romance. I loved how well-described Griep make London. I have never been there, but she did a wonderful job at bringing London from a long time ago to life. She dove into the characters personalities and allow me to see how the characters feel and perceive things.
The plot kept me spellbound. The top item on my bucket list is to visit London during the Christmas time. I loved how Griep created a story with a fake marriage to win an inheritance from an uncle. The competition between the two cousins captured my imagination. I couldn’t wait to see how the story ended. I finished the novel in under a day. It didn’t feel like a novella because Griep does a good job at diving into the characters and intermingling them with the plot.
The romance was not the typical Victorian romance. I mean, what girl allows herself to pretend to be someone marriage to help them earn an inheritance? What does she get out of it? Slowly, through all the conflicts and moments that could have blown their cover, the romance between Mina and William blossomed into true love.
The theme of second chances is created and fulfilled by the uncle and passed onto his nephews. What person does not need a second, or even a third or fourth chance from their past mistakes or encounters?
In conclusion, TheTale of Two Hearts is a wonderful, Christmas-type of feeling story. With a different type of plot, Griep captures my attention by creating another keeper for the shelf. I anxiously await the next installment in the story, which is teased at in the final pages of the book. Fans of Johanna Davidson Politano would enjoy this novel.
I received a complimentary copy of A Tale of Two Hearts by Michelle Griep from Barbour Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
(A previous review of the individual novella.)
“The Old Lace Shop”
“The Old Lace Shop” is a wonderful Christmas feel-good story telling the horrors of working conditions in Victorian London. I really enjoyed the inside look at the horrors of the tiny detailed work of Lace making and the old factories that used to produce them. The plus side to Griep’s story is that she didn’t just show the horrors inside the factory; she also showed us the horrors of the town surrounding the factory. The low wages and low hours affected the employees, the bosses, and the community. I enjoyed this glimpse into Victorian London’s life. I did enjoy the characters of Edmund and Ms. White. The romance between the two really didn’t sparkle on the pages. There were hints of their past love coming the surface, and enjoyed that. Edmund was more focused on working on orders for the factory while Ms. White wanted to make a better world for the less fornuate. This was a great story in favor of Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol, and I think it was a great addition to the collection and a wonderful story to read for Christmas.
I received a complimentary copy of Once Upon a Dickens Christmas by Michelle Griep from Barbour Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.