A Cross-Country Trip through Regency England Brings Intrigue, Rogues, and High Adventure The must-read conclusion to Michelle Griep’s Bow Street Runners Trilogy: Life couldn’t be better for Abigail Gilbert—but it’s been a long time in coming. Having lived with a family who hated her, it’s finally her time for love. Abby sets off on a journey across England to marry one of the most prestigious … of the most prestigious gentlemen in the land—until highwaymen upset her plans and threaten her life.
Horse patrol captain Daniel Thatcher arrives just in time to save Abby. But she’s simply another victim in a job he’s come to despise. Tired of the dark side of humanity, he intends to buy land and retire.
Abby pleads with him to escort her for the rest of her journey. He refuses—until she offers him something he desperately needs to achieve his goal. . .money. Delivering her safely will give him more than enough to buy property.
So begins an impossible trek for the cynical lawman and the proper lady. Each will be indelibly changed by the time they reach her betrothed, if they don’t kill one another first—or fall in love.
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Oh, I love this book! I could have easily devoured it in one sitting if life had not gotten in the way. Samuel Thatcher is definitely my favorite Bow Street Runner. I hated to see the series end but I can’t wait to see what’s next for Michelle Griep.
My copy of this book was provided by the publisher, but as always, my opinions are my own.
‘Staring at death was nothing new. It was a way of life. A companion Samuel frequently clasped hands with.’
At last! Michelle Griep gives us Samuel Thatcher’s story in her Bow Street Runners trilogy. When I first met this man in previous books, I knew he had a story to tell and knew it would be a good one. I was wrong. It was a great one. When I saw the cover some time back, that feeling was simply reinforced.
Abigail Gilbert has been betrothed to a baronet, but must travel a long journey to his ancestral home to marry him. She is more than ready to leave a family who has no use for her. A family that can’t even be bothered to give her a manservant to travel with her on a dangerous journey. And danger does indeed come, in the form of highwaymen.
Captain Samuel Thatcher arrives just in time to save Abby from said highwaymen. He despises his job and is hoping to retire and buy land and become a farmer, far away from crime and death. Abby asks him to escort her on her journey and he agrees only when she offers him a great deal of money. He can buy his property and retire from pursuing criminals. However, one of those criminals, the most vicious sort, is after him and nothing will stop this man from seeing Thatcher die. But Samuel has promised to keep Abby safe and he intends to keep that promise. He will be tested down to his last nerve in doing so, though.
Michelle Griep is a huge favorite of mine. Her books just get devoured here. When I open one and begin to read, I lose track of time and everything around me until I finish it. But … I want to race toward the end and I also want to slow down and savor every moment. So….I end up rereading many passages again and again, highlighting and writing in the margins. Griep manages somehow to capture each character in so much detail that they feel as if you’re riding along in the coach with them in the storms, battling the highwaymen and feeling every emotion in their hearts. And her spiritual themes are what some might call simple and direct, but they are very, very profound. I loved every moment of it and now I wish I could read it all over again. Samuel Thatcher is the epitome of a noble guardian and a mighty fine hero! Highly recommended.
My thanks to Barbour Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
The Noble Guardian by Michelle Griep is a FANTASTIC page-turner. I loved every minute of this book. The settings are vivid, the characters are tremendously endearing, and the action is non-stop. I truly could not put this book down!
Watch out ladies, Samuel Thatcher has arrived, and what a swoon-worthy hero he is! Nothing is sexier than a man who does all he mentally and physically can to protect others. Everyone knows Ephesians 5:25: Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her. In The Noble Guardian, Samuel is Ephesians 5:25 personified. He literally puts his life on the line for others day in and day out. Watching Samuel do all he could to protect Abby and sweet little Emma truly made my heartstrings zing!
Both Abby and Samuel make reference to Esther 4:14 (ESV): For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this? At different moments in the story, Abby and Samuel ponder this question that Mordecai poses to Esther. Have Abby’s and Samuel’s paths crossed because of God’s Will? I fully believe that God purposely puts people into our paths for a reason. Some of these divine appointments are obvious — we know why our husbands, wives, children, co-workers, and friends meet us on our paths daily. But what about the strangers we come across every day? The man you pass on the sidewalk, the mail carrier you said hello to as she dropped off your mail, the kid you saw in the aisle at the grocery store — are these people who randomly happened to cross your path, or did God put them in your path for a reason? Abby and Samuel have plans. They really work very hard to achieve their plans, but the more they spend time together, the more they struggle with the paths they thought they were supposed to travel. Did God put them together for a purpose? The fun in this story is breathlessly waiting for both of them to realize God’s true purpose for their meeting. God does not bring them together in a conventional way, but God’s purpose is perfect no matter what. And what a great reminder for me — God’s purpose truly is perfect no matter what!
The Noble Guardian is an excellent story. I had so much fun reading this book. If you are looking for a novel full of edge-of-your-seat adventure, well written and endearing characters, and timely themes then I highly recommend The Noble Guardian.
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Abigail “Abby” Gilbert hopes to one day marry “the love of her life.” She believes her chance is at hand when her cruel stepmother tosses her out, along with her maid, telling her to go to Sir Jonathan at Brakewell Hall. Even though her father arranged the marriage, Abby believed the marriage was one of love and not for money or convenience.
Captain Samuel Thatcher, requisitioned to protect travelers from highwaymen, doesn’t need to care for someone he initially believed to be an aristocratic, head in the clouds girl. However, circumstances dictate otherwise!
Griep integrates historical characters under a fictional umbrella, creating a suspenseful, hair-raising escapade for our hero and heroine. Also, she seamlessly blends her faith, illustrated through the main characters, into the story naturally and logically.
I enjoy all of Michelle Griep’s novels, and this one, like the others in the trilogy, along with her other books, didn’t disappoint!
The Bow Street Runners Trilogy concludes with The Noble Guardian by Michelle Griep.
I received the book from NetGalley through Celebrate Lit. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
The Noble Guardian is full to the brim with rich details, delightful romance, and page-turning intrigue. Readers who enjoy Regency novels will fall in love with the strong but wounded hero, Samuel Thatcher, and the charming and spirited heroine, Abby Gilbert. The extra touch of suspense will keep readers up late turning pages until the satisfying ending.
Packed with heart and hope, The Noble Guardian is sure to take historical romance fans on a journey they won’t want to end. Endearing characters, a page-turning plot, vivid prose, and timeless truths make this novel a true pleasure to read.
Samuel Thatcher, a cynical lawman and Abigail Gilbert, a victim of her step-mother’s intense dislike.
Abigail is put on a coach to be delivered to the man her father has chosen as her future husband.
Samuel, an honorable detective is paid to see her safely to her future husband’s home.
What happens on the journey I won’t reveal. But I couldn’t put the book down. Michelle Griep is an imaginative and exciting writer. Thanks Michelle. Now, on to your next book.
This was my favorite book of The Bow Street Runners series. It was a captivating tale that really made me feel like I was right there experiencing the dangers that Samuel, Abby, and Emma faced as they traveled across England. The romance was beautifully written and I loved the epilogue!
This is the first book that I have read in the Bow Street Runners series by Michelle Griep but the book could be read as a stand-alone. I loved being introduced to Samuel and Abby. Abby is sent off to marry a baronet after her family does not need to have her around. Times are hard as many carriages are robbed by highwaymen during travels and Abby is sent without a manservant during the journey. Samuel’s life has not been easy. He does not want to get straddled with anything or anyone. When life’s circumstances bring Abby and Samuel together, Samuel is struggling with his feelings. He is supposed to be delivering Abby to the baronet but, now with a baby in tow along with Abby, things change. I loved reading about Samuel and Abby’s journey and how they finally realize their feelings. Great historical fiction and I love the fact that Ms. Griep includes the history part in the back of the book. I will definitely be reading more of Ms. Griep’s books.
Can they each find the peace they both desire?
Now that I’ve read a few of Michelle Griep’s books I’ve come to expect a lot from her. Her trademark is historical romance with flawed but likable characters and a nice healthy dash of suspense.
The Noble Guardian started out a little slow for me, more historical romancy at first, but then, boy, howdy did it take off and I was totally immersed in the story. This book really has it all, lots of atmosphere on the wild roads of Regency England, danger, mystery, and, of course, romance between two polar opposite characters that you can’t help but love. There are also some surprising secondary characters, both the wonderful and the menacing.
One of my favorite parts of the book was getting to learn so much about travel and accommodations in Regency era England. Do you know what a postilion was? I didn’t until I read The Noble Guardian.
I really enjoyed my foray into history with The Bow Street Runners and now that I’ve finished The Noble Guardian I can’t wait for Michelle Griep’s next exciting novel…
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
The Noble Guardian, by Michelle Griep, is an utterly thrilling book brimming with action, suspense, adventure, faith, and a touch of romance! From the stunning first sentence to the satisfying final paragraph, this historical fiction story does not disappoint. With riveting twists and bold turns, The Noble Guardian thoroughly entertains with immersive settings, unforgettable characters, and compelling threads of hope and redemption.
From lace to homespun, from kidney pie to pottage, and from porcelain to mud, Ms. Griep excels at weaving words into an intricate tapestry of storytelling that reveals the grit and grime as well as the polish and shine of Regency England. Her descriptive, gripping style of writing successfully envelops the reader in rich historical and sensory details.
Displaying great skill and thoughtfulness, Ms. Griep also crafts complex main characters that are resilient, believable, and truly likable. Though they often make terrible decisions and let the traumas of their past guide them in their futures, they still manage to hold on to a hope and a longing for love and goodness.
As the characters endeavor to find acceptance and a place to belong, a meaningful message of love and redemption springs forth from the pages. Even while bearing the weight of hurts they do not deserve, they persevere and act with honor, courage, humility, and self-sacrifice enabling them to discover their own value and worth. Their hearts then grow receptive to the truth that they are indeed loveable, valuable, and worthy.
Though it is the final book in the Bow Street Runners Trilogy, The Noble Guardian can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone novel. It is wholly captivating, memorable, and inspiring. It is a remarkable book that deserves to be savored and shared. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*I was given a copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
With her signature spice, Michelle Griep takes us on a rollicking ride across Regency England in The Noble Guardian. But beware! Just when you think you’ve met her most dashing hero yet, Captain Thatcher steals your heart. Add an endearing heroine who is equally adventurous and the wee gem that’s been entrusted to their care, and you have all the makings of a fabulous finale to The Bow Street Runners series.
Griep puts a surprisingly fresh twist on the third installment of her Dickens-esque stories. Don’t miss this charming tale of lost-and-found love!
4.5 STARS!!!
Talk about tall, dark, and dangerous…Samuel Thatcher deserves his own hashtag! Years of hunting down marauders have left indelible marks on Samuel, literally and figuratively. His goal is to earn enough to leave the Bow Street Runners and buy a piece of farmland, retiring to a life of solitude. He’s seen and done too many horrible things to ever hope for love.
Abigail Gilbert lives a pitiful life among a step mother and step sisters who despise her, and a father who is only looking to wed her off so he can go about his business with his ‘new’ family. He sends Abby away to join her fiancé, the supposedly upstanding and wealthy Sir Jonathan Aberley of Brakewell Hall. With no protection provided by her father, Abby, her maid, and driver must cross through dangerous territory, rife with thieves and the murderous Shankhart Robbins.
Due to unexpected circumstances, Samuel agrees to protect and deliver Abby to Sir Jonathan. Along the way they face much adversity and danger, bringing a level of complexity to their relationship neither one expected and opening each to the heart of the other. This story delves deep into restoration through Christ alone and offers hope to the most bone weary and burdened soul.
With an assemblage of some pretty amazing supporting characters, The Noble Guardian is a fine finish to Griep’s Bow Street Runners series. This is one for the keeper shelf that I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Oh how I loved this book! I didn’t want to put it down! This is probably the best book by Michelle Griep so far! There was so much adventure, danger, love, and hope in this! I’m pretty sure Samuel still has a piece of my heart. This is one of those books that I want to read again! I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Oh my! This book by author Michelle Griep has it all!. Mystery, danger, good guys and bad guys, adventure, and mild romance. An extremely skilled storyteller, Griep has included something for everyone!
The characters are well developed and with all the descriptions you’ll feel as if you’re going along on the journey, too. Seriously, Griep did an incredible job of pulling the reader into the story. Samuel Thatcher is an enigma. Dark and brooding, yet very protective of the people in his life even as he tries to keep everyone at arm’s reach. Abigail Gilbert is determined to keep her word, even when doubt tries to come in. Soft hearted, she wants to be loved. I really enjoyed both of them and their walk with God.
Griep continues to give us great books to read. If you enjoy historical fiction that is sometimes raw and gripping, and sometimes full of tender poignancy, then I suggest you get a copy of this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
“Even half-dead, Samuel could tell a lot about a man by the way he handled three things: old age, trousers that wouldn’t stay up, and strangers.”
Ah, Michelle Griep. Such captivating Regency novels does she write. I have high expectations whenever I pick up this author’s book and she has never disappointed. This newest offering, which is book 3 in the Bow Street Runners series, will surely capture your heart and mind with a beautifully written plot and wonderfully engaging characters. Reading the first two books, Brentwood’s Ward and Innkeeper’s Daughter, prior to this book will enrich the enjoyment of the story and appreciation of the secondary characters, but is not absolutely necessary. With clever and witty prose and dialogue, a dash of danger and suspense, several plot twists, a damsel in distress, and a rugged and protective but emotionally broken hero, the story has every ingredient blended perfectly together to create a delectable treat you won’t be able to put down.
Samuel is a wearied lawman who can only see the darkness and evil in his fellow man and desperately wants to leave Bow Street for solitude on a farm. Yet his sense of justice, loyalty, and need to right the wrongs of others constantly pull him into danger. Abby is a woman whose only goal in life is to be loved and cherished. She leaves the home where she’s unwanted and sets out to marry a baronet but meets unexpected trouble with highwaymen and needs the protection that Samuel can provide. As Samuel reluctantly escorts Abby to her betrothed, they are threatened by a crazed gang of bandits bent on revenge and murder, loved by an adorable infant who isn’t related to either of them, crushed by witnessing the sorrow brought on by poverty and alcohol, and drawn irresistibly together.
It’s a memorable journey as Samuel and Abby both learn about faith, hope, and love.
I received a copy of the book from Barbour Publishing/Shiloh Run Press via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Captain Samuel Thatcher is the best!!! I truly fell in love with the people in this story. They do not feel fictional, though I know they are. This book is more than a 5 star read!
My heart hurt for Abigail. Unloved by her father and mistreated by her step-mother, she still has hope. Hope for a better life with her betrothed Sir Jonathan. She only met him once but he asked for her hand and her father gladly gave it. She has an inner strength I’m not sure she was aware of, and she is very persistent.
Captain Thatcher is longing to retire from Bow Street, buy some property and live a simpler life. He only needs a bit more money. My goodness, the man is the most swoon-worthy hero. Strong, rugged, handsome (despite his scars), loyal, caring, gentle, and always does the right thing. I love the way he says “thunder and turf” when he is upset.
He is after one of the worst men around, Shankhart Robbins, an evil demon. Shankhart is after Thatcher too, for reasons I can’t say without spoilers.
When Captain Thatcher meets Miss Gilbert, well let me just say he’s met his match. She is stubborn about doing things her way and she convinces him to help her. The adventure begins!
The journey is fraught with danger and a few unexpected moments of light-heartedness. But it is a journey well worth taking. I highly recommend this book! I am so glad Michelle Griep wrote Thatcher’s story.
*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher. A review was not required. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Full disclosure: I haven’t read the first two books in this series. This novel is good, but it didn’t blow me away like the author’s “The Captured Bride” did. It really felt like it needed a good editing job, lots of repeat words and phrases that kept jumping out at me, and the characters were a little too predictable, a little too perfect. I may have enjoyed it more if I’d started with the first book in the series. That said, it’s still worth reading for the trip back in time and place.
I am always amazed at the way Michelle Griep can completely sweep me up in a story and make me feel as if I’ve actually been in the setting she’s chosen as the backdrop to her story. Her characters have such depth to them. From the very first page, I felt Abigail’s emotion of wanting to find true love and acceptance into a family, and felt the sting of rejection from her own parents. Samuel Thatcher is the almost-ideal hero throughout this story. “Noble” is certainly the word that describes him, and he proves time and again that he’s a person Abigail can completely trust. He’s a man of faith, and he has to draw strength from that as he faces a threat that can come at him silently from almost any direction. As Abigail also faces uncertainty and adversity all throughout this story, she finds that the “true love” and acceptance she’s really needing can only come from God.
This is a well-researched book and the author incorporates those details to give this story an authentic feel. Michelle Griep is master at writing Regency mystery/ suspense. This is a clean story and there’s no foul language or inappropriate scenes to mar the reading. I have loved this “Bow Street Runner” series. Even if you haven’t read the other books in this series, you can enjoy this one on its own. can’t wait to see where the author takes us in her next series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.