Cover Image: The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane

The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane

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Member Reviews

Michelle is such an excellent story teller. The mystery and adventure are top notch.

The banter is excellent.
I loved having both Kit and Jackson’s continuing (married) romance and the side character romance. Married love is so under utilized in the story world and Michelle knocked it out of the park. “I’m just keeping you on your toes…” 🤣

Also, I felt so seen in Kit’s character: wanting to support her family, live out her passion, and fulfill her calling as mother and wife. I loved that dynamic being wrestled with throughout the book.

I loved it so much. I will always look forward to Michelle’s next book.

If you love Scarlett and the Duke, you’ll love this.

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This is a good historical fiction that keeps you wanting more. It is a good mix of faith, action and a good plot. Unique in that you have a woman Detective which is unheard of in this period of history and makes it more interesting. If I had any complaints it would be that it does move slow at times and gets kind of wordy. The book is a good read and I really like Kit the woman detective.
I like spunky characters and Kit sure fits the bill. She knows how to push people's buttons and also how to get in trouble while being a Detective with her father. I enjoyed the book.

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A great finale to the Blackfriars Lane series!

I think this has been my favorite Michelle Griep series so far. Kit and Jackson are such relatable, well-developed characters, and I've really enjoyed following along on their adventures and "seeing" them grow over the course of three books. I thought the side plot of Charles and Martha's developing romance was sweet, but Charles's POV was my least favorite (just because I wanted more of Kit and Jackson).

The plot had plenty of action, suspenseful moments, and high stakes. As far as the romance went, there were a few suggestive comments I could've done without, but I wasn't terribly offended or anything. There may have been a less-than-respectful use of God's name, and of course, there was the requisite British slang.

Overall, I found The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane to be an exciting read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and historical romance. I'm looking forward to reading what Michelle Griep writes next!

Disclosure: I received this book free from the author/publisher through Celebrate Lit. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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I have really been enjoying this series and I am so glad that we get a whole book about Kit and Jackson and their baby girl, Bella, and how they are managing their lives. Especially now that Kit and her father have opened their own detective agency and along with this new venture, they do have some growing and trusting to do as father and daughter. Not only that, but Kit is especially wrestling with her role as a mother and a detective. The author shows Kit's feelings, doubts, and wavering's as most mothers are faced with these choices. Kit's first case is not helping matters in the self-doubt she is struggling with at all either.

Jackson is not having a real easy time of it either. His job is being threatened if he does not figure out the mess that the former police chief left. Paperwork upon paperwork needs to be sorted in two weeks' time, and the crime in the city will not slow down for even that. I did really like how supportive and protective Jackson was of Kit's endeavor outside the home, but he also was not going to put up with her endangering herself. It was a good balance of character for him, supportive yet reasonable.

We do get another love story with Inspector Charles Baggett and the widow Martha Jones and her seven children. I enjoyed their caring and banter with one another. If only they will open their eyes and see just how perfect they are for one another.

This story has is all, mystery, danger, family love, romance, and firm resolves and unbreakable wills. This one of my favorite series.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

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I loved this book and entire series. Michelle Griep is an excellent author! I really wish this series could continue.

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This was book #3 in the series, but I do not believe it impacted my read at all. If I had read the other two, it may have given additional background on the characters, but the story was easy enough to follow. I struggled with the first half of the book and didn't know if I wanted to finish, but once the pace and action picked up in the second half of the book, I became invested as a reader. Otherwise, this would have only gotten 3 stars from me.

At first, I did not enjoy the main character Kit Forge. She was overbearing and full of herself, which I did not enjoy. I enjoyed her much more once the action ramped up, then her personality seemed to match the situation. Also, I had qualms early on with her crime solving abilities. For example, at one point, she was willing to entertain a strange idea that she described as "a leap of faith" that deserved consideration, but she wasn't even questioning some of the original facts of the case.... I was like, really?

The story was full of humor, adventure, and suspense -- at least in the second half. There were many interesting and colorful characters. Some more integral to the story than others. I particularly enjoyed the developing relationship between Martha and Charlie, which was the best part about the first half of the book!

Overall, this story was slow to pull me in, but once it did I was in it for the long haul! However, I don't think I will be reading any of the other installments in this series, this one was enough. But, I would be game to give this author another try.

**Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review**

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I've really enjoyed this entire series of books about Kit and Jackson. This newest is such a good conclusion. (I guess it's the conclusion...?) Now that Kit is a mother, things look different. But....she's still determined to continue being a detective and investigator. But it's hard to leave her little girl behind daily.
And, when she decides to accept Mrs. Coleman's case, it all becomes very personal.
This story was captivating. Bits of humor mixed in here and there. Lots of action. I did wish Kit wouldn't be quite so adventurous, but it makes for an intriguing story!

Also. Jackson and Kit are now married, so there isn't a lot of romance going on. Well, not like what you would normally see in a romantic suspense novel. But, there is still some married romance going on. And then... there are also some secondary characters experiencing romance. So....never fear, it is not just a mystery!

This story will keep you reading until the very end. There are so many unexpected things, action, and just lots going on.

I highly recommend!



Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

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Set in London during the 1800s, The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane has lots of mystery and intrigue! Kit Forge and her father open a detective agency while her husband, Jackson Forge, is the new chief inspector of a London precinct! They end up working together both to apprehend a criminal and to protect their young daughter. I found the story a bit hard to believe but it was interesting to see what life may have been like in London at that time. I received a complimentary copy of The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane through Barbour Publishing and Net Galley. This is my honest opinion.

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I've been in love with this series since book one (which admittedly I did chuck across the room as soon as I finished reading it... I had big feelings on that one, lol). Book three was absolutely lovely. The humor I've come to expect, the danger to give me a thrill, and the sweetest romance ever. Not to mention the addition of some new characters that I actually adore, such as Bella and Harvey and Catchpole. And while of course, Jackson and Kit are the main attraction, let's not forget Charles and Martha, Kit and Greybone, Frankie and literally everyone, Greybone and Bella, Kit and Brooks, Jackson and Harvey, Catchpole and Jackson... literally just everyone with everyone, tbh. I laughed out loud, I screeched in horror, and felt all the feels. Definitely recommend this one, and don't forget... #respectthearmadillo

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I enjoyed this historical adventure. Griep excels in creating an authentic atmosphere of Victorian London and the police activities of the time. The historical note at the end indicates a novel that adheres to the conditions of the era. The plot contains a good balance of action and personal information. Kit, now a mother, did not seem as astute as in earlier novels. While she is still adventurous, such as running over roof tops, she does have a real sensitivity to the safety of her child. But that sentimentality could also be her downfall, being fooled into taking a case that turns disastrous.

There is a good faith message woven into the story reminding us of the impact a deed done or words spoken in love might have on another. It could be life changing.

I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a good historical setting, intriguing characters, and an adventurous journey.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

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This book was a great read! It has mystery, drama, suspense and just enough twists and turns to make it a book you can't put down. I would recommend that you start with book 1 and read them in order to get the most enjoyment out of this series. I loved it and highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Christian Historical Fiction.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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As the third and final book in the series, The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane did not disappoint! Michelle Griep is a masterful storyteller who brilliantly weaves together elements of family, faith, romance, history, mystery, and good and evil.

I have adored Jackson and Kit from the very beginning and in book three I enjoyed seeing them grow not only in their marriage and faith, but also in trying to balance their new roles with being new parents. I also liked seeing more of Graybone and his softer side, the growing love and affection between Charles and Martha, and the introduction of two characters, who either because of their quirkiness or eccentric ways, remind us of the wisdom in not being quick to judge but rather slow to listen.

In many ways, book three read much more like book one than book two in that it was well-paced and kept my interest throughout. The only reason why this isn’t a five-star read for me is because of some of the content. And because of the content, I do believe some may need to read this more as Fiction with elements of faith than Christian Fiction.

Star Rating: 4.5 stars, rounded down.

Thank you, NetGalley and Barbour Publishing, for the eARC in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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What an exhilarating, adventurous conclusion to Michelle Griep’s Blackfriars Lane series! I fell in love with Kit and Jackson from book one, and it’s been so wonderful to see their story continue all the way through The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane. This story kept me on my toes and holding my breath from the first pages. It’s a tale that will suck readers in and keep them guessing. Definitely add this series to your TBR! 4/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Another exciting adventure with Kit & Jackson Forge! Michelle Griep knows how to write a compelling series. I’ve loved each book in the Blackfriars Lane series and highly recommend starting with book 1! The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane is book 3 and I’ve loved watching Kit & Jackson fall in love, marry, and now experience parenthood all while solving crimes and bringing ne'er-do-wells to justice.

In this story, Kit experiences the conflicts of balancing motherhood with her desire to be a private investigator. She and her father have opened up a detective agency while her husband works as the new Chief Inspector of one of London’s busy police stations. While Jackson’s under pressure to meet the demands of his superiors, Kit’s struggling with whether or not she should stay home with their darling one year old daughter Bella. When she’s presented with a case of a missing husband and child, the mother’s plight tugs on Kit’s heartstrings. Though her father’s suspicious, Kit vows to locate the missing child. But, all is not as it seems and as Kit & Jackson unravel the mystery, they find more than they bargained for, putting many lives in danger including their own daughter.

Kit & Jackson are such a fantastic team. It was fun seeing their domestic life mixed in with solving crimes. Kit’s a terrible cook though she tries, but her sweet affection for her husband more than makes up for it. They’ve acquired a pet armadillo whose antics provide some funny, lighthearted moments. Bella’s adorable and both Kit & Jackson are in a competition to get her to say mama & papa. The secondary characters bring another fun dynamic to the story. I enjoyed the budding romance between Martha & Inspector Baggett. I also liked the quirky characters in the police station including Mr. Catchpole & Harvey.

The mystery was complex with several twists and turns. It kept me on the edge of my seat and the ending was especially intense. It’s very much a Dickens-like story that doesn’t shy away from Society’s gritty aspects. I loved the way faith was naturally woven in and the lessons learned such as paying attention to the talents of those around you and recognizing you can’t do it all.

This is definitely a must read series for historical mystery/romance fans! Though I think this is the last book, I’m not ready to let these characters go. I’m hoping there’re more mysteries and adventures in store I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.

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The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane is the 3rd in a series. And it is extremely important that you read the first two books first. I did not realize how connected these books would be and feel I did myself (and Michelle Griep) a disservice by not reading them first.
This was a story of intrigue and suspense. Twists and turns around every corner. It had me guessing and wondering what was going to happen next. I did enjoy the book. But know that it would have been even better if I had read the others first. I look forward to reading more by Griep in the future.

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Kit Turner, the street smart young woman is now married to the police of chief, Jackson Forge, but she has not given up her street wits and wiles. Even though she is now a mother of a little girl who has her and Jackson's love completely and they are very possessive and protective of her. Kit and her father have joined forces and have formed an investigation agency. On her very first case she is distracted and led astray and almost loses her life. And of course Jackson is brought into the foray and his life is in danger also and it seems any one that Kit has connections with is in danger. Hold on to your seats as you read this exciting book one that you will not want to put down. I was gifted an early E-copy of this delightful book by the publisher and the author and I am delighted to leave my positive review.

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The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane by Michelle Griep was a fun read in her Blackfriars Lane series. Book 3 follow Kit Forge, her husband, Jackson, and a myriad of other friends and family as she sets off on an adventure to solve a case for the detective agency she runs with her father. In typical Kit fashion she can’t do anything simple or without a bit of turmoil. Will she be able to juggle all the roles in her life…wife, mother, detective? And more importantly, will the people she loves survive the danger involved with her case? I guess you’ll have to read it and find out. (Thank you NetGalley & Barbour Fiction for letting me preview this book. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review & all opinions are my own.)

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I was unfamiliar with Michelle Griep and stumbled upon this book because it was residing among my favorite genre. Also unaware that this was the final book of a series. It didn’t disappoint because the author makes you comfortable with the characters from the very beginning. I was drawn into the story from the very beginning. Kit and her father are opening a detective agency. Main character Kit is spunky and is undeterred by knowing the underbelly of London’s citizens, she has made connections to the right people to have her share of informants. Her father, a retired Chief inspector, has plenty of his own and believes Kit should concentrate more on being more domestic for Jackson’s sake He has been made Chief Inspector. They have an almost toddler, Bella, whostays with Kit’s best friend, Martha, at her soup kitchen during the day. Fortunately, Martha has daughters who can keep a close watch on Bella when Martha gets very busy.. We watch the beginning of a romance between Martha and Charles, Jackson’s best friend. We also see how a give and take relationship works with a young couple just finding their way around a marriage and work. Jackson could starve since his wife can’t cook at all. Has to get his coffee and food from the street vendors. On his way to work. Kit worries their advertisements we’re’nt working because they didn’t have any clients their first morning.her dad is relaxed and says it will happen all in God’s time. To relax. Then comes in a woman in desperate need of help finding her scoundrel of a husband who had kidnapped their daughter. Kit couldn’t wait. and wanted to take the case because it pulled on her heartstrings. They placated the woman enough to get rid of her. Father told Kit absolute no, they didn’t have all the facts. Kit didn’t take no for an answer and took it upon herself to solve. Every time she met with the mother she felt as if she had seen her eyes beforebut couldn’t place where she had seen her. Then the story really takes off it merges with Jackson’s investigations. The one thing that disturbed me was using Martha’s son for recon information on a high risk info gathering mission. Lots of humor throughout. So many characters with unique personalities. Special thanks to the following for giving me an unedited copy to read and give my own honest opinion. #NetGalley,MichelleGriep, #TheSleuthsOfBlackfriarLane. Yes, I will definitely be recommending.this book. Available now.

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Michelle Griep concludes the Blackfriars Lane trilogy with a bang!

In "The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane," sparks fly as Kit and Jackson attempt to balance married life, a babe in arms, and perilous investigations into Victorian London's criminal underworld. Fans of “Miss Scarlet and the Duke” will love this jaunty story's action-packed blend of mystery and romance.

If you're in the mood for a rollicking adventure with Dickensian flair, “The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane” is sure to be your cup of tea!

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Heart-pounding action and heartwarming romance abound in this third adventure for Kit and Jackson! I adored seeing Jackson progress as a loving and protective husband and father, and seeing Kit be a spunky detective who grows wiser as a mother and wife is a wonderful character arc for her in this series. Seeing Kit strike a balance in her life that didn’t compromise one dream at the expense of another was extremely satisfying. Seeing two other series characters find love was another wonderful addition to this romantic tale! The entire cast of side characters was so well constructed, multidimensional, interesting, and throughly entertaining! Best of all, the mystery and action was SO compelling! There were so many twists and turns that kept me guessing (and audibly gasping!) until the sweet happy ending! It was a hard won happily ever after for Jackson and Kit, and the very best conclusion to a wonderful series.

I received a copy of this book for review purposes, but my opinion is my own. I really did ADORE it!

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