I enjoyed reading the first two books from Michelle Griep's Blackfriars Lane series and was excited to have the opportunity to read the third installment, The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane. Since this is a series, I advise others to read the books in order to have a better experience. It was great continuing Kit and Jackson's story. I once again found myself caught up on one of their adventures that, also, included some mystery and suspense. I loved it.


I am giving The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read clean historical fiction.
I am curious to see what other stories Michelle Griep has in store for her fans next.

I received a copy of Michelle Griep's The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Wife. Mother. Homemaker. Detective. Kit Forge wears many hats, and if that’s not enough, she’s partnered with her father to open a new detective agency. It’s hard to be all things to all people, but Kit never shies away from the impossible. Despite her hard work and good intentions, some things fall through the cracks. Namely, her husband. But Jackson barely notices. He’s too busy putting out his own fires. As the new chief inspector of a busy London station, he must salvage the disaster left behind by the former police chief—an obstacle made all the harder when the superintendent breathes an ultimatum down his neck. Against her father’s advice, Kit takes on a case involving a missing child, one in which she and Jackson become a little too emotionally involved. . .and end up endangering their own little girl in the process. Can Kit and Jackson learn that just because they can say yes doesn’t mean they should? (GoodReads synopsis)

I normally like this series, but I just cannot say this is one of my favorites. There is a big-time jump, it feels like, from how the second book ended and this one began. There are references to the time jump but there are also moments where even I forgot who Kit’s father was. I also wasn’t entirely sure whose job it was that Jackson had been promoted into.

I found it difficult to relate this Kit to previous novel Kit. She seemed to be lost, and I understand that she would be different in a sense, but there was also a hollowness to her. Like she knew to pray to God, but it was a gesture and not a leap of faith.

The mystery was fine, and I liked the additional romance.

Overall, I rate this novel 3 out of 5 stars.

I really enjoyed the first two books in this series, but this one fell flat for me.

Kit's "cussing like a sailor" (her own words) hadn't been used to describe her in previous books--why start now? In addition, her use of marital relations to get what she wanted felt over the top and also at odds with previous books; true, she and Jackson hadn't been married then, so I appreciate that that element wasn't there--but I also didn't really feel it fit now, even though they're married. Kit felt fundamentally changed as a character, and that is what really stands out to me as most problematic.

I did enjoy Charles and Martha's romance; that was a highlight and the redeeming factor of the read.

Gripe's "Of Monsters and Men" duology is my preferred series by her, and one I'd be glad to revisit next time round.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Why I chose this book: Michelle had me hooked on this series from the first book. Both my teen daughter and I have enjoyed the series and wait expectantly for the next book to come out.

Type of Book: Historical fiction, action

Overall: This was a pretty enjoyable read. Kit is as feisty as ever. There is such a cast of characters in this work and I found myself wondering how they were all going to tie together--it was masterfully done! I like the message Forge learns by the end of the story, and though a little obvious, it is a good message that is well displayed throughout.

I will say character descriptions are one of Michelle's greatest strengths. Take this one for example: "A round ball of a man rolled in, his spectacles so thick the eyes behind them popped like an owl's. 'Inspector Ira Harvey reporting for duty, sir.' He yanked out a handkerchief and swiped it across his sweaty brow--which did nothing to relieve the darkened circles of perspiration spreading out from his armpits. The man didn't look capable of finding a child's stolen lollipop, let alone hauling in a ruthless criminal."

And take this one describing little Frankie: "Martha's boy was at that awkward age between colt and stallion."

Michelle does a fantastic job of giving each character his/her own voice. I tell clients all the time that dialogue has to have purpose--even internal dialogue. Hearing something like: "Much could be gleaned when tossing up a statement and allowing the chaff to blow away," tells me about the character who speaks it. Again, Michelle is a master at character.

However, I dock a star because this story, while fine, wasn't gripping. Not every story is. Getting a four-star review is still exemplary. The editing could have caught a thing or two but that just gets missed sometimes when there have been so many rewrites (which every great book has!). For example, a conversation with Bellows in the beginning of the story is not fluid: Charles asks for a "brief" word with Bellows, and three pages later Bellows comments, "Brief, eh?" It took me a minute to figure out where that "brief" comment came from. I was so caught up in the dialogue and story that I didn't remember the one comment from three pages back. It is that kind of thing that editors are to catch and this one just slipped through. My rule to live by: never pop that fictive bubble we work so hard to pull our readers into.

Favorite Quotes/Characters: I love Kit. She's a fireball. And to watch her work through some things in the story made for a good plotline.

And again, the descriptions of this poor inspector Harvey! Cracks me up: Forge "shoved the file across the desk. 'Then shut it down.' 'Mmm...I cannot, sir.' The man shook his head, an amazing feat considering it didn't appear he had a neck."

Bookshelf worthy? If you have the others, you might as well add this one so you have the set. Because of the teenability score, I probably won't have it on my shelf although I did enjoy the story.

Teenability: I wouldn't recommend it for younger teens. And some of the things, while not showy, were just a little much even for me. For example: "Say it again.' His lips moved against the throbbing pulse just beneath her skin. 'Say my name and never stop saying it.' 'Charles.' She moaned. 'Oh, Charles.'" (me: gag)

**Side note: the audio version is very well done.**

I really wanted to love this book, but I just had the hardest time getting into it for some reason. While I loved Kit in the first book, she has gotten progressively more frustrating to me, and I don't know if that's me or her, but the decisions she makes kind of drive me crazy since she got together with Jackson. In the first book, she was really stubborn, but it seemed like it was always for the sake of others, but in this latest one, it seems more about satisfying her own wants and desires, and it made her stubbornness much less attractive. I did thoroughly enjoy the Baggett and Martha storyline though. That kind of saved the book for me.

I thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting with Jackson, Kit, and the rest of the crew in the final book of the Blackfriars Lane series! Michelle Griep wrote a funny, emotional, and action packed mystery that will have you turning pages to find out what kind of trouble pops up next. I really need to read her other books that have been on my TBR forever!

Thank you to Barbour Books and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Reasons to read:
-Romance, action, complex mystery, comedy, and faith elements
- Work/Life Balance
- General mayhem
- Dual POV
- Miss Scarlet and the Duke Vibes
- Series final

My Thoughts:
In the final installment to the Blackfriars Lane series, Jackson and Kit are happily married and raising their baby daughter, Bella. But between raising their daughter and trying to balance their demanding careers respectively, things can get messy. Add an investigation that impacts them all to the mix, and things go downright chaotic.

I loved every moment of this story. From the strong, and flirty, relationship between Kit and Jackson, to the mystery packed with twists and turns the Sleuh of Blackfriars Lane was an entertaining read. I loved the balance the author achieved, showing the realistic and happy life of Kit, Jackson, and Bella, and the darker, grittier scenes of a crime-plagued Victorian England. It was also so good to see the growth of Jackson and Kit from the first book, until now. The author did great work in showing the challenges and emotions Kit faced while being a working mother, especially during a time when it was uncommon.

The secondary characters added to the progression of the main plot, while also adding a second romance. This romance helped highlight the strength of the main couple's relationship, and both characters had their share in helping solve the final mystery. The mystery plot itself was well thought out, and while it seemed the cases taken on by Kit and Jackson would not be intercepted, I appreciated how the dots connected by the end. There was plenty of action and suspense, keeping the pages turning as they steadily built up to a dramatic climax. I knew there was to be a happy ending, but that didn’t stop my heart from hearting at the dangers the family faced. Through this all, there was a steady faith element that was weaved brilliantly into the pages. Loud enough to deliver a message, yet stubble as not to distract from the plot.

Kit and Jackson have become memorable characters for me. It is truly bittersweet to say goodbye to these characters, and the world Greip has created. I would gladly continue to read more books about them - yet I felt the ending was perfect. The good thing that can be found with a series ending is that now, I can wait patiently for Griep to deliver new stories, with the confidence that I will enjoy them just as much as I have with The Blackfriars Lane series.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭:
Clean Romance (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: Death, Suicide, Kidnapping,

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I have loved this series, and I highly suggest reading it in order to fully appreciate a d enjoy the series.

I love Kit, though at times I want to shake my finger at her and ask what she's thinking. Her heart is in the right place, but she can get herself in quite a fix sometimes. This series deals with some of the unsavory parts of the world, but love and God always triumph. I really enjoyed the journey and adventure this story took me on. I'm sad to see this journey end.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley, and this is my honest review.

This was a fun addition to the Blackfriars series! I enjoyed seeing how Kit and Jackson's lives had changed and how they adjusted to those changes. I also liked that Charles and Martha's relationship had some time in the spotlight. The mysterious plot was well done and kept me on the edge of my seat.

As this book brings the conclusion to the trilogy I would say well done. That being said I feel that the story was well developed but I had trouble with the lack of real communication and while the faith element was there the innuendo and sexual content was to much. Definitely not a favorite book by this author for me

The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane is the final book in the Blackfriars Lane series of which I highly recommend reading all three in order.
I have really enjoyed spending my time with Kit and Jackson in these past three books. There has been a lot of character development for both of them.
The series including this book takes place in Victorian England and it's so different from the books I have read taking place in modern day England.
For your convenience there are historical notes at the end of the book explaining a bit about the time period and the definition of some words. I know it helped me a lot.
The book was an adrenaline-soaked rush the whole way through. I think as I read some of the book I forgot to breathe. From the circus to the back-alleys will an emotional case from the heart be their last? Kit and Jackso love their new baby daughter with all their heart, but will they be able to maintain their quality work and the care of their daughter as well. A faith filled historical fiction balancing mystery, suspense and the importance of family.
Highly recommended!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Michelle Griep kept this series fresh and exciting with another suspenseful adventure for Kit, Jackson and friends. With the same detailed Victorian England background, the atmosphere was perfect for this new story to unfold. It was great fun to see familiar characters in a different stage of life as well as learn more about other characters from the previous books. The two couples at very different stages in their relationship have enjoyable romantic scenes. The added bits of humor that had me laughing out loud simply completed this wonderful tale. I can only hope that there will be another book in this series very soon. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane is a fast-paced story of Kit and Jackson's attempt to take down a smuggler. The chase becomes messy as dead bodies add up. Kit now a mother, finds continuing in her investigative duties more difficult.

Descriptions of underground London and characters kept me turning the pages. The story is full of emotion, danger, and various desirable and undesirable characters that keep you guessing. Will hope, love, and justice endure to the end? You'll have to read it to find out. A great conclusion to a well-written series.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Quite enjoyable. Plenty of humor and lighthearted moments. Plenty of intense, action packed moments. High faith content, filled with normal, everyday Christian living. Several twists that for me were unforeseen. Jovial banter between several of the characters. Often made me giggle snort out loud. Everything I love in an engaging book: suspense, mystery, fun, joy, high faith content, yet still a light read. I certainly became invested in the dilemmas the characters experienced. I was blessed with a free ARC, and I’m voluntarily leaving my review. Highly recommend. This is the third in a series and I hadn’t read the previous two. I do wish to go back and read them. I look forward to much more ny this author.

We finally got the series finale with Kit, Jackson, and little Bella! This story is set in Victorian England with plenty of action with mystery, suspense, and romance! The second half of the book kept me riveted and up late getting to the end. Which was a very satisfying happily ever after. Michelle Griep has such a great knowledge of that era, and it shows in her story. My thanks to @barbourbooks for the advance reader copy. This is my honest opinion.

Aw, Jackson and Kit! It is great to see them again as they are settling into married and now have an adorable baby daughter. Jackson has taken on more responsibilities with the police force and the busyness of the staff and his cases. Kit enthusiastically jumps into her role as a partner with her father in an enquiry agency. She has street smarts and a network of people who can help her with her first case.

I have loved the series, but I especially loved this story. This is not only a story with a mystery to solve that gets more complicated and more complicated, but you also get to see Kit and Jackson’s relationship continue to develop. Kit is a spitfire and you are not sure what she will do, but you can count on finding her taking risks to track down clues and see justice prevail. Jackson is the perfect balance for Kit. He’s patient, daily eats his burned breakfast without complaint, and wholeheartedly supports Kit’s decision to be a detective.

I enthusiastically recommend this book for many reasons, and here are just a few:

amazing side characters
baby Bella
the armadillo
circus mayhem
humor
faith-filled message
a complex mystery

Favorite Quote:
“Pursue love instead of dwelling in past failure. That path can only lead to a denial of the present and a forfeiture of the future.”

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by BarbourPublishing through Celebrate Lit and through NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.

I couldn't stop reading this book. I always wanted to see what was on the next page. I adore Kit and Jackson and their romance. In this novel, Kit uses her street smarts to try to root out a baby-napper who stole his own child away from his wife. As Kit takes on this heart wrenching task as the first case for her new detective agency with her father, Kit finds herself in dangerous situations more frequently than Jackson can rescue her. Another romance is developing between Jackson's trusted partner and Kit's friend who runs the soup kitchen. Will Baggett and Martha find a happily ever after or will their doubts and fears push them apart? And why does it appear Martha might be targeted when she isn't even involved in Kit's case? Could it be because she watches Kit's baby daughter Bella while Kit is working? Oh, look out. Kit can turn into Mama Bear faster than a real mama bear.
And all the while Kit tries desperately to solve this case and Jackson works under the burden of an impossible task set before him by his boss, is Kit plagued by mama-guilt and wife-guilt? Is she spending too much time away from her daughter and husband? Was it a mistake to partner with her father to do what she's always loved?
If you've read the first parts of this series, or even if you haven't, you are going to love this book. Superbly written with outstanding character development by Michelle Griep, sit back and share this adventure with Kit, Jackson and Bella. You won't soon forget it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

The Sleuth of Blackfriar’s Lane is a Victorian-era mystery featuring Kit, who has recently opened an Enquiry Agency with her father, and her husband, Jackson Forge, who is the new Chief Inspector over a London station. In addition to juggling their new roles, they are also adjusting to being parents. When a case comes to the Enquiry Agency involving a missing child, Kit can’t resist helping the mother find her child. But as she is drawn deeper and deeper into a conspiracy with dangerous consequences, Kit must enlist the help of both her father and her husband, which endangers her own daughter’s life. Can she unravel who is behind it all before those she loves get hurt?

This book is riveting, with a dangerous and action-packed case to solve, intertwined with humor and romance. Our heroine is very relatable in her doubts about juggling motherhood with a job that she loves. Jackson, our hero, is just as relatable as he’s balancing being a manager and boss, with his family life. The author uses historic details of Victorian London that will make a reader feel like they are really there. There is also a budding romance between Jackson’s best officer, Charles Baggett and Kit’s close friend Martha that is endearing and sweet, as they all get caught up in the case with Kit. This is the third book in a series, and though I hadn’t read the first two, I wasn’t lost with this one. The Sleuth of Blackfriar’s Lane is a memorable mystery, perfect for an afternoon of reading!

It's been about one and a half years since we were last treated to a story about Jackson and Kit Forge. Jackson is now an over-worked chief inspector, and Kit is trying to balance motherhood and opening a new detective agency with her father. All of Kit's growing maternal instincts and feelings make it impossible to turn down the first case that comes to the new detective agency, that of a missing child, in spite of her father's objections. This lively story has more than its own share of chaos and mayhem. Even Kit and Jackson's close friends and colleagues get pulled into the maelstrom. Readers will likely feel that they've been sucked in as well. As in real life, there are lessons to be learned in the storm. Griep allows us to learn alongside her characters from the safety of our favorite reading spots as her characters face danger head on.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. In my opinion this book is quite worth the time spent between its covers.

I uploaded my review to Goodreads. I will upload it to Amazon on release day.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Michelle Griep for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane coming out April 1, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I love this series! I always enjoy Michelle Griep’s books. Kit and Jackson are a fun couple and I love seeing the growth of their relationship over the series. I think a lot of the book centers around Kit trying to balance home and work life. The mystery was good, but I definitely think I enjoyed Kit and Jackson working together more.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romances!