First and foremost, I love when I get a chance to read a book in a time setting and period that I am not familiar with. I love that I get to experience a lesson all in one. I felt like I was placed in a time machine and transported back to simpler, intriguing times. This is a newer author to me, and I am so glad that I was able to read this story. I could not read fast enough. The author brings the characters to life through her carefully crafted storyline. I cannot wait to read more by this author. 

I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit Blogging program and Netgalley - all thoughts are my own.

4.5 stars

“God stamps His value on everyone – on you – by virtue of His grace.”

An undercover Bow Street Runner with a bit of rogue in him. A hardworking young woman with the weight of her family’s inn on her shoulders. A quirky puppeteer (quirky may be an understatement here). A mischievous young boy. A mother with a few secrets of her own. You will fall in love with each of these characters in turn, as well as the myriad of other eccentric and intriguing characters who cross your path on these pages. Griep is highly skilled at creating empathetic characters in whom you quickly become invested.

And then there’s the intrigue of spies and smugglers and not knowing for sure who to trust or what part they each ultimately play in this drama. Another skill Griep has mastered in weaving the setting with the plot until they become deeply intertwined. With shades of Dickens and Austen in turn, she draws you in and holds you captivated until the very last page. Listen closely and you can hear the creak of the rickety steps, the wind blowing through the badly-shingled roof, the swayback horse’s whinny, and the flapping of ship’s sails at the waterfront.

Bottom Line: In The Innkeeper’s Daughter, Michelle Griep has crafted a rich tale of suspense, romance, and faith. Layered characters and a vivid setting linger with you long after you’ve turned the final page. If you’re a fan of Brentwood’s Ward or even just the age of smugglers and spies and Bow Street Runners, then this book definitely needs to be at the top of your TBR list!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

I enjoy clean suspense of all types. This novel is not your typical one. It deals with lower-class people caught up in a difficult life and striving to survive. Mixed within the main storyline of catching a traitor are numerous threads winding their way with subplots and surprises, which is what I’ve come to expect from this talented author. This is the best book of hers I’ve read, but I did find it challenging to keep everything straight, especially since so many characters are not just whom they seem to be. But that makes the story even more compelling. The well-developed main characters, Johanna (of the title) and Alex, the undercover officer, are both drawn together and pitted against each other. Set in England more than 200 years ago, this historical’s wild ride is well worth pursuing. Only after reading the book did I learn that it’s not the first in the series. It definitely stands alone, but I thought there had to be more. And a third is in the making. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

She clasped her hands in front of her, a strange tension lurking behind her beautiful facade. He got the distinct impression that laughter was a friend who rarely came to call on her. What would it take to cause a genuine smile? How would it feel to be the recipient? A foreign urge ran through his veins to be the man – the only man – to make her laugh.

Don’t you just love the way the words in that paragraph were joined together?  This is typical of the prose you can expect throughout The Innkeeper’s Daughter. It is so beautifully written. It brought me to a different time and place, seeing and smelling and experiencing things in a new way. Though the author’s writing style is much easier to read than his, the descriptions, especially of the characters, reminded me of Charles Dickens’ novels.

There were so many fascinating characters in this story. Mr. Nutbrown and his puppet, Nixie, were so well developed! This simple-minded man who loved yellow stockings played a fairly large role in the book. Mr. Quail and his rag-tag musicians who were perhaps tone-deaf were some more of the colorful people who brought this story to life.

I really liked the way that Alex was so conflicted about having to tell lies in order to help protect his country. He would not have been such an honorable man if that came easily to him. The way that Alex treated Johanna’s little brother, Thomas, so kindly was endearing.

The story brings readers on a journey from the dining rooms and gaming parlors of the rich to the humblest of inns, to the gaol, and to places I won’t mention so I don’t spoil the story. With more of a focus on the humbler places instead of the aristocratic ones, the story made Dover and its environs come to life. This is a rich adventure that is a pleasure to read, with some surprises along the way.

A Regency spy novel? Yes, please! I’ve been wanting to read one of Michelle Griep’s novels for a while, but somehow, I’ve not managed to do so until now. And there were so many things I enjoyed about this novel, not least of which is the setting. I can’t tell you how much I loved having a rural, working-class setting. I mean, I love London ballrooms and country estates as much as the next Regency lover, but it’s such a small part of Regency England. It was great to get a glimpse into the grittier aspects of the time—although we do venture into the world of the upper classes on occasion, too.

This story is littered with colourful characters, from Johanna’s young brother Thomas, to the eccentric Mr Nutbrown and his puppet Nixie, to Mr. Quail and his rag-tag band of wandering musicians, and more. They all have a part to play in the development of the story, too, though I was kept guessing as to exactly what that role was until the latter part of the novel. And the plot! This is one of those stories that begins with a few seemingly unrelated strands that gradually get caught up in one another until you can’t pull on one without tightening the whole knot. And it gets hairy there at the end!

The other thing I loved about this story was Ms. Griep’s writing style. She handles words with finesse, and the random touches of droll humour that coloured the writing kept me thoroughly engaged.

My one slight disappointment was that the romance felt a little clichéd—particularly some of the romantic moments along the way. And there was one scene in particular that seemed completely out of character for Johanna, which of course happened at the worst possible time. But the other aspects of the story more than compensated for this, and I won’t be hesitating to pick up the next Michelle Griep novel that comes my way.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

The Innkeeper's Daughter holds interest with a mysterious and engaging plot.  Where it falters is in the relationship between its main characters.  The mystery is interesting and agreeable - but the lack of understanding of why the characters fall for each other ended up mildly glaring for this reader.  If you read it as a mystery, it's a good one.  If you read it as a romance, it's missing some details that would make it more emotional and believable.
The main characters are good individually -- detailed and likable.  The storytelling is a bit awkward when it steps into the shoes of a particular secondary character - but overall is a pleasing story that will keep readers engaged.

Suspense and intrigue in regency England. Bring it on!

You’ll meet Johanna, who is quite the gal. Innkeeper’s daughter at the lowly Blue Hedge Inn. Struggling to make ends meet, she is doing all she can to keep herself, along with her mother & little brother from losing their home. She’s feisty and independent, determined to survive.

Then, along comes Alex Morton. Big, strong, and handsome. She can’t quite figure him out. Is he who he says he is? What is he doing there?

This book involves captivating history-details, setting, events, etc. It also has mystery, intrigue, and danger. I feel like it offers a more realistic setting for this time period than so many books. I’m talking about the ones where all the characters do is get dressed (by their maids), eat elaborate meals, attend lavish events, and such. I do like those, too, to a certain point. But there’s got to be more to those days than the rich people! And I think the author did such a good job at capturing this from more of a lower-class view point.

I found the spy element in this story quite fascinating! I don’t know, I guess it just seems a bit unusual. And I love it. There is so much going on that I did have a bit of a time trying to keep track of all the lesser characters. And my mind was attempting to solve what was going on behind the scenes while I was reading, and I just didn’t quite accomplish it! 🙂 (which means a very well written suspense story!)

A quote that jumped out at me:

“Are you under the impression that what you have or have not done is what gives you worth? Because that is nothing but a vile lie. God stamps His value on everyone–on you–by virtue of His grace.”

Yes, I too am guilty of this; way too often! Trying to value myself or my worth by my actions. I am convinced this is one of the reasons this story resonated so much with me–because I found myself quite frequently identifying with the main character.

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

Carefully researched, Innkeeper's Daughter offers a wealth of period detail, expertly woven into the story. No lack of due diligence here! However... That historical detail was the best part. Much of the story dragged, and the MC's religious beliefs confused me. Although she professed her faith often, she never did 'let go and let God.' I didn't like her character much. She came across as perpetually set-sacrificing and a bit of a prude, even in the context of the era.

Pick this one up if you can catch it on sale.

*ARC via netgalley*

“The Innkeepers Daughter” by Michelle Griep is a novel set in the Regency period in England.  Johanna Langley, her mother and her brother Thomas are trying to keep their ramshackle inn and pub in business.  Johanna’s main worry is to keep the place afloat until she can gather the rent money and taxes that need to be paid.  If she cannot do that, she and her family will be transported to the poor house.

Enter Alex Morton, a handsome rogue with deep pockets who always seems to be where he is needed and at the right time.  As a Bow Street Runner, all he wants is to be the best Runner he can be.  For his latest assignment he is to go undercover to flush out those who would commit treason.  All indications point to a Viscount and his minions from Dover.  He is required to take a room at The Blue Hedge Inn, Johanna’s establishment.  He finds more than a dilapidated inn.  He is smitten with the lovely Johanna, but she has a wall around herself that will be very hard for him to crack.  With the secrets he knows, the lies he tells, and the company he keeps, it is difficult to woo the lady.  Mind you, all this subterfuge is necessary in order for him to keep himself alive.  No one can be trusted and the reader does not find out who the miscreants are until the very end.

I have read other books by Ms. Griep and have also enjoyed them.

The Inn Keeper's Daughter was an emotional, romantic, captivating and mysterious read. I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the balance between ridiculously funny to ridiculously captivating.

I loved all the elements in this book! A hardworking innkeeper, a British spy, smugglers, gamblers, musicians, puppets... the unique details made it stand out from others with a similar theme. Johanna's circumstances are desperate, and she keeps coming up with ideas to bring in more funds, only to find that when her plans fail, the Lord has things in hand. The spiritual message is to trust God even when there seems to be no hope left- especially then. Both Johanna and Alex find themselves in situations that definitely put that to the test, and the steady pace of the plot kept me glued to the pages. I was surprised by some of the more gritty descriptions, but I appreciated the reality it portrayed and the sense of danger and desperation was heightened. I felt like I got to know the cast of characters quickly, from Johanna's mother and brother to Alex's mysterious colleague to the troublesome Mr. Nutbrown. I loved seeing the different elements weave together as the action built toward the exciting climax which was anything but predictable. The sweet friendship that blossoms between the skeptical Johanna and the protective Alex was the icing on the cake and the yearning there for something more brought another level of tension that slowly builds throughout the book.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Well you could probably knock me down with a feather right now. You see I am always willing to try a new to me author for the first time. After all with the odds 50-50 I'll like them it's worth the effort to me. I've tried this author in novella form before but a full book no, not until now!
Michelle,I need to read more of your books! I have my new favorite author right here!
I am so impressed with the scenes in this book that I swear I was there seeing,hearing,tasting, all of my senses came alive in a sensory overload!
You need to read this book right now. It's a true historical treat!
Pub Date 01 Mar 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc.through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Innkeeper's Daughter by Michelle Griep tells a great regency romance story. Set in England in the early 1800s, there is action, intrigue, and romance enough to keep the pages turning quickly. Heroine Johanna is determinedly trying to hold her life together--a falling apart tavern/inn in a rough part of Dover, a young scamp of a brother to keep tabs on and a mam with physical limitations and secrets of her own to keep. Will Jo ever understand that trusting God may be the answer and that He places value on her, not for what she can do but by virtue of His grace? A new tenant comes to stay, Alex, a Bow Street Runner, with a secret mission to accomplish. Why is he taking such an interest in her family? What does he want in return? He begins to consume her thoughts and dreams and yet how can she trust a deceiver, a gambler, a rake, a rogue? And on his part, his heart was hers from the minute she fell into his arms and yet he was promised to another.  The author expertly brings a marvelous story to the written page as she tells this compelling tale of smugglers and gamblers, a ventriloquist and traveling musicians, and a desperate family. The colorful characters are believable and the reader quickly gets caught up in their story. Tension runs high as the villains are not revealed until the explosive ending! The Innkeeper's Daughter is an action-packed story with twists and turns and is a great read for those who love a good historical romance! 
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions are my own.

The author spins a tale of mystery, action, suspense in a Dickensian style, using mature vocabulary and writing style. As always, excellently written. Highly recommended.

Michelle Griep is without a doubt one of my new favorite authors. Her stories have it all - romance, intrigue, mystery... and I love the fact that she can write a compelling and swoon-worthy romance without resorting to smut. Her characters find strength in their faith in God, and their faith makes the characters complex and real.

Johanna works day-in-day-out to keep the family's run-down inn afloat, with as much help as her aging mother can give, and as much help as she can squeeze out of her baby brother, Thomas. She struggles with placing complete trust in God to provide for her family, and trying to rely on her own efforts and independence. Johanna's father is long-gone, and the memories of him leave her bitter toward men, but especially handsome men who gamble and lie.

Enter Alex Morton. Handsome as they come, a charmer of the worst sort, and a gambler to boot. Try as she might, Johanna cannot seem to escape the fact that Alex seems to just keep coming to her rescue, whether it's fighting off unruly patrons, removing squatters, or saving her from herself. But as Johanna finds herself falling for his charm, opening up to him and letting herself believe he might be more than meets the eye, Alex finds himself putting secret after secret between himself and the headstrong woman who could be just what he needs. I loved watching their story unfold.

I had not heard about Michelle Griep until I had the opportunity to review "12 Days at Bleakly Manor" a few months ago, but now I realize I actually have a couple of books by her! One of them was the first book in the series that goes with "The Innkeeper's Daughter". I wish I had known so I could read it first. The characters from that book are mentioned in this book, but I didn't feel totally lost. I just like to read books in order. "The Innkeeper's Daughter" kept me guessing what was going to happen and there were so many twists I didn't see coming. I liked the characters and how they grew in their relationships with the other characters and in their spiritual life, as well. Besides seeing things from the point of view of the main characters, we also get to see a secondary character's point of view through Mr. Nutbrown. He was a very quirky person. I look forward to reading more books by Michelle Griep. 

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

Johanna Langley lives in Dover, England with her mother and brother, and together they run an inn called the Blue Hedge. Her father has died, leaving them with a run-down building and debt they are having a hard time paying. Alex Moore is a Bow Street runner, and the magistrate in charge gives him a dangerous mission to intercept and prevent a plot against England. The magistrate orders him to go to Dover and stay at the Blue Hedge Inn in order to find the traitors. Alex clashes with Johanna as he seeks to fulfill his mission, but they soon find themselves falling in love with each other. Can Johanna learn to trust Alex in spite of the secrets he must keep? Will they both survive the dangerous circumstances swirling around them and find a happy ending?
I enjoyed this book very much. There was a good balance between danger and suspense and love and humor. I became invested in the characters and couldn't wait to find out what happened to them. The characters were complex and dynamic, and the plot was very well done. The content was clean and the romance was handled well. There was a bit of violence, especially toward the end, so I wouldn't give this to young children. Overall, I  liked this book and highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Innkeeper’s Daughter by Michelle Griep is a very gripping story of love, loss, intrigue, danger, suspense, and a great thread of the truth that the outcome is not up to a person but up to God.  I find that Michelle is an amazing author and her books are very hard to put down.  She has so many characters in this book that have me feeling all sorts of things, either frustration or oh no or ahhh love or whatever one must feel when reading about the special Mr. Nutbrown.  This is a great historical fiction I highly recommend set in the beautiful land of England.  
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and was under no obligation to post a review.

Alex and Johanna story is a wonderful read.   Johanna is so devoted to her family and the Inn.   She has put as much as she can to make life work for her mom and brother .   Then there is Alex walking in to her life.  He is on a mission and has to hide that fact .  They are surrounded by so many obstacles . Reading this book it has so much love, mystery, hope and understanding Gods plans are always as they should be.   Enjoyed this book .

Secrets, intrigue, and action abound in Michelle Griep’s newest release. Returning to The Bow Street Runners and their undercover assignments, The Innkeeper’s Daughter is one story not to miss out on.
Though their lives and personalities differ in many ways, Alex and Johanna struggle with the same root issue. They want to control every situation in their lives. It takes desperate circumstances for them to place their futures and lives in God’s hands.
With plenty of questionable characters to keep you guessing, continuous trials for Johanna and her family, and a slightly unhitched boarder, Griep weaves a tale with a little something for everyone—romance, suspense, history, adventure, and loads of entertainment.
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.