This book contains there historical romantic suspense novellas.
The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady – Helen is surprised to see the ship’s crew held at gun point by the smuggler, but nothing is going to stop her from coming home to her ill father. It’s not long before Helen meets Isaac in another setting With the revenue man in town, there is danger. This is the most suspenseful of the three stories.

The Doctor’s Woman – When Emily is called to help a wounded soldier, the new doctor arrives unexpectedly. James isn’t sure about Emily’s backwoods remedies, but he wants her to stay to help him care for the Native Americans staying there. This is my favorite of the three stories.

A House of Secrets;..Amanda wants to acquire an abandoned home for a charitable project so that her father will be proud of her. With a short deadline approaching to acquire the deed, she turns to her fiance for help. This is another good story.

I enjoyed reading this collection.

This collection of short stories were filled with sweet plots and sassy heroines. I didn't find it overly engaging, but it was easy to read and had no questionable content. It is a Christian pinlication and as such reflects the characters struggles and commitment to their faith. Some of the plot and characters could have been further developed, but this is a common complaint with novellas. Overall, I'd give it a mid-point rating - I didn't love it; I didn't hate it.

Thanks to thebounlisher for providing a copy via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

This was a nice collection of stories. I found myself vested in each story, wondering how it would all play out. I would definitely recommend this book to friends

Barbour Books through NetGalley allowed me to read and review this ebook, a compilation of the novellas. The opinions are my own and not required. The book is Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep.
I do not give a synopsis of a book in my reviews, you can read that in a lot of other places. I do give my honest opinion. In my opinion, this is a 3-star book. the reasons are below.
The main reason I give only 3 stars is that the first novella was very disorienting. I felt like I was plopped into the middle of a book, that the beginning and ending were missing. There was no reason given why the heroine's father had moved to the location of the story. The ending wasn't done well either, it just stopped. The other two novellas were better in explaining things, the stories seemed more complete.
This is a Christian book and that was very well done. It is not pushy but does show how a Christian lives. The characters were well developed also for a novella. Other than the first story, the plot flowed well also. The editing was fairly well done as well.

These are lovely - I really like this author. My rating for all three 4.75.

The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady
Helen is a Pastor’s daughter who has traveled to help her ill father. As she arrives in his community she is kidnapped by a local smuggler. Inadvertently she sees the face of the man who saves her. She is soon surprised to find out his identity. She has a dilemma as she is reluctant to turn in the man who has saved her and cared for her father so caringly.

Isaac has bent his own rules in the name of revenge. The staunch faith of Helen makes him question his motives and look for alternatives. Will he be able to make Helen see him as a reliable person rather than a scoundrel?

I fully loved both of these characters and how the story plays out. There is risk with a lascivious authority not only stalking the smuggler but also inappropriately pursuing Helen and/or Isaac’s single sister. The plot keeps it moving quickly while I was rooting for this couple to get together. I especially loved Helen’s reliance on God and willingness to look for the best in others. She also wasn’t afraid to speak her mind to rebuke inappropriate behavior. My rating 4.75.

The Doctor’s Woman
Emmy is the daughter of a missionary doctor who has recently died. She is preparing to leave the wilderness to return to her society Aunt when she is asked to help at the Fort Snelling while they await the new doctor. Emmy is about to tend a man with a seriously crushed leg when Dr. James Clark arrives. Dr. Clark is a city doctor seeking a coveted position at Harvard. To gain his recommendation he has been directed to show he is able to survive a tour of service in the wilds of the West.

Dr. Clark and Emmy meet with sparks flying. He asks her to stay to help him and the commander makes him responsible for her welfare in the rough environment. He is still set on strict old fashion doctoring techniques while Emmy tries to encourage using some natural remedies learned from the Indians – even those Indians who killed her fiancé. The doctor gains respect for Emmy’s dedication although her independence frustrates him. But when it comes time for him to return to the East will he be willing to part from Emmy?

These are two more engaging characters and another story with plenty of conflict and moments of danger. The description of the western hardships is well done. Their struggles through the circumstances and the decisions they face provide inspiring encouragement. My rating 5.0.

A House of Secrets
Young Amanda has secured the chairmanship of the Ladies Aide Society which she hopes will impress her standoff father. Amanda wants to obtain the title to a dilapidated house to turn it into a safe place for educating street children. A haughty Society member puts Amanda on a deadline to get the title or lose on her first project.

Amanda seeks the help of her fiancé, the city Attorney to find the owner of the land. He claims he is too busy with other issues to help right now but really he is hiding his involvement with the property. He has been using the house to help brothel girls escape from the hands of the city’s most infamous madam. He doesn’t want to let Amanda know his connection to the house, nor certain family secrets.

A powerful business man is thwarting Joseph’s efforts to close down the local brothel. The corrupt man is quick to comfort Amanda when she is devastated to learn of Joseph’s betrayal. Just as matters come to a head a life-threatening accident pushes Joseph to face his fears and Amanda to address her impulsive rejection.

I liked the interesting brothel and society history in this story. The story felt a little rushed and didn’t pull me in as much as the first two. Still, it was entertaining, and I appreciated the messages regarding the harm of secrets in a personal relationship. My rating 4.5.

I enjoyed a previous historical romance by this author, The Captive Heart. I highly recommend this author and this story to readers who like Christian and historical romance with real life danger and conflict.

Source: 2019 NetGalley.

This was a set of three short stories. The first was an ok story but it felt like a different version of the series Poldark. It was too similar and I was not interested. It was written ok but I was so put off by the similarities. The second story was well done and I enjoyed it. It had a clear beginning, end and the plot was done well. The last story felt like you were reading the end of a long book. It was so odd. I felt like I missed so much and started at the end of a book. It was a good story but really lacked a feel of a short story.

4.5 stars- Great, just short of spectacular

Yay for Michelle Griep for coming up with another new book. However, this one is not quite new, but a collection of three novellas that have appeared in other works. Thankfully, I found these, bundled together, whereas I missed them before.

1. The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady was the first story and my favorite. Taking place in Cornwall, England, Helen, the young adult daughter of a dying minister is thrown into the path of an unusual smuggler. Can Helen understand the world is more than black and white? Can Isaac give up his “rightful” revenge against Brannigan? Eventually, the truth comes out that God is sufficient. Sometimes I shake my head at what appears to be characters’ convoluted thinking- but then realize we all have our blind spots. I found lots of quotes to like in this part.

“‘You are all I have left.’ ‘No, child, there is always God.’”

“Those who leave everything in God’s hand will eventually see God’s hand in everything...”

“Sometimes what we see... and what is truth are two different things. The world is not as black and white as you seem to believe.”

“If one cannot trust in God’s provision, then perhaps one has no business professing a faith at all.”

2. The Doctor's Woman - This was my second favorite. Taking place in 1862 Minnesota, Emmy Nelson arrives at Fort Snelling, where she is needed in her deceased father’s place. She ends up helping Dr. James Clark, there because he needs field experience. As the two get close, will Dr. Clark return east to Harvard? God is indeed watching over this pair, as He watches over all of us, and maps out our futures, too.

3. A House of Secrets- 1890 St. Paul, MN Amanda Carston and her attorney fiancé Joseph are at odds about the old Griggs House and its use. Why is Joseph suddenly secretive and refusing to support her very well-intentioned endeavors? While this wasn’t a favorite, the lessons are obvious: honesty, prejudging, considering one’s own motives better than others’, of self, assuming the worst of others. Pretty much the opposite of the love chapter in the Bible.

I received this book as a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review, and all opinions are solely my responsibility.

Michelle Griep has a way of writing historical fiction that makes it feel as though you are there in the moment, experiencing the events with the characters.

I enjoyed this book and found it exceptional...in spite of the fact that I prefer longer stories over novellas... :)

And so...just a brief review about each of the three stories.

The first one, The Gentleman Smuggler's Lady. What a book! The title, even though a bit cumbersome, gives you a bit of a peek into what the story might be about...and it is action-packed from the first page! Think of an 1800s Robin Hood. That's what you've got here. I loved this guy, Isaac...in spite of the fact that he is the villain... or at least he appears that way at the beginning... But, he also is the hero, so there you have it... :) Helen meets him in an unfortunate circumstance....as he is pirating the ship she is aboard. And then...she is officially introduced to him shortly thereafter...can she keep his secret?! (sounds very intriguing, does it not?!!)

And then there's The Doctor's Woman

This is another interesting historical fiction novella...about Emmy...a young lady who has enough experience and knowledge to be a nurse, or maybe even a doctor...but this is back in those days where it was not an accepted occupation for a woman.

And last but not least A House of Secrets

Finally. This one is set in the late 19th century, St. Paul Minnesota. You meet Amanda, and her fiance Joseph. They are society people. But they are in the middle of trying to shut down houses of ill-repute. It's another interesting read.

My main issue with these stories is that they were too short! :) The story was almost over before I felt like I really got in to it.

But...for novellas...they were great. If you are looking for a quick read, and especially if you enjoy historical fiction, read these!

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

This was a quite enjoyable collection of novellas by Michelle Griep. Each storyline featured a strong young woman, but the similarities ended there. I can’t even say that I preferred one over the other. Each was a stand alone story and perfect for reading when I wake up at 3 or 4 am and don’t want to get out of bed.
I liked the fact that the author kept the stories clean even though there was romance involved. A great story without dirty language or sex can still be told. I would recommend this set of novellas to anyone wanting a good clean read.
I was provided an advance e- copy of this book from Net-Galley and the publisher Barbour Books.
Thank you.
Opinions are my own and hope you all enjoy this collection

Pretend I am courageous.
Pretend my heart still beats.
Pretend all manner of blissful things…
And I shall find him alive.

So begins the first story in Michelle Griep’s three novella book, Ladies of Intrigue.

I enjoyed this collection of novellas. I sometimes prefer novellas with a common thread. However, Michelle Griep’s novels of three different locations and times were perfect.

Each story’s heroine has obstacles to overcome where she must rely on her faith in God, her wits and her intuition.

The stories are perfect for a quick read, especially as winter seems to be dragging on, for these stories are lively and well-paced.

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit through NetGalley. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.

“Ladies of Intrigue” features three different stories about courageous and competent women. These ladies range from a governess to a physician to a society gal, each with her own special qualities of spunkiness and a desire to get things done. The Christian message comes across in each lady’s desire to serve God, rather than being overt and preachy. The title might lead some readers to think these are mysteries. However, I would classify them as historical novelettes with adventure and romance. Readers who desire a series of quick reads will enjoy hearing more about the ladies and their adventures.

I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

I enjoy anthology books because they give you a variety of stories. It's like getting bonus books all in one beautifully crafted work. Each story takes you right into the action and the author has done a great job of giving vivid descriptions. I loved each story and hated to see them end. It's time to travel back in time and be introduced to characters that jump off the pages with realism.

The Gentleman Smuggler's Lady

I was hooked right at the beginning as a band of thieves come aboard a ship to take the cargo the ship had been transporting. To their surprise is a lady that they didn't know was there. Helen has traveled a great distance to care for her ailing father. She is rescued by one of the thieves and taken to her father. It was easy to feel her uncertainty as Isaac became her knight in shining armor. After all he was robbing the ship she was on and that does send up red flags.

Isaac is one of those characters that may cross the line in some areas of the law, but he is doing it for the better good of people. I loved his charismatic charm and his need to help others. Will Helen be able to forget Isaac's past and trust him? Isaac is someone I would love to have as a friend. His heart is big when it comes to those who have less than he does. I loved how he provided whatever Helen needed to care for her father. The story is enchanting and I loved how expressive the author was in describing the hearts of two people who face danger and secrets.

" We must put our trust in God alone, not in our own feeble attempts to enact justice."



The Doctor's Woman

Emmy has just suffered a great loss and is preparing to leave to go stay with her aunt. Her father was a well respected doctor and his loss will be felt by many. The story jumps right into action when a doctor is needed and Emmy decides she will help. I loved when she encounters the wounded soldier and suddenly is pushed aside by Dr. James Clark. They certainly don't agree on the treatment of the soldier, but Emmy pushes her pride aside . Dr. Clark is a man who is demanding at times and very opinionated. I loved the time period and how the author blends, humor, faith and pride into a story that captures the essence of life in the late 1860s. They will encounter the Sioux Indians, soldiers and danger as they try to work together. The description of what they encounter at the internment camp overwhelmed me. Their primitive doctoring is hard to read about while thinking of our modern medicine today. I especially liked reading about the medical procedures and how dedicated they both were to saving people who others thought as animals. The relationship between Emmy and James is swoon worthy. This is one story that has everything you would expect from an author gifted in writing strong characters with a fierce determination to help others.

" Then I pray that God will bring to you a special someone. As long as you're still breathing, there's always hope."

A House of Secrets

With this story, we are rewarded with how gifted the author is by writing descriptions like, "half -burned timbers reached into the night sky, dark on dark, like blackened bones trying to escape a grave." Amanda is swept away by her fiance , Joseph to attend their engagement dinner. To her surprise the carriage doesn't turn towards the place where the dinner is being held. I chuckled as Joseph tells Amanda they are making a detour to Hannah's Crow, which is a brothel. Joseph has a strong determination to see this place closed down. Amanda has her eyes on a building to restore it as a school for the poor children in the area. I loved the intrigue in this story as Amanda tries to find out who owns the building she wants. What is Joseph hiding from his fiance? This story is filled with secrets, learning to trust and two people who must find their way to the truth.

" You are loved. Trust in that. Believe in that."

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

An enjoyable collection of stories about strong women who are treasured for their strength as well as their beauty.
I love reading about feisty women who break convention and do what is right. This collection doesn't disappoint.

Each story takes you back in history where women had a particular role to play with expected behavior. The main characters of these stories are not conventional.

I had a favorite one - The Doctor's Woman. I think it was because I love stories about the West and this fit the bill. It made me think of an old movie- Drums Along the Mohawk.

I received this free from Celebrate Lit to review.

Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep is three stories of intrigue and romance set in the 19th century.

The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady takes place on the Cornish Coast provides readers with glimpses of beauty and the particular peoples of the coast.

The Doctor’s Woman, set in Dakota Territory in 1862 is a harrowing tale of life in the territory with wild animals, blizzards, and grizzled untrustworthy men. And a young woman recently orphaned by a doctor father, hoping to avoid joining her snooty aunt in her home.

A House of Secrets takes place in St. Paul Minnesota in 1890 is my favorite of the three stories. Amanda Carlton is set to obtain an abandoned house to use as a school for the poor uneducated children in the city. When she discovers the owner of the abandoned property is her fiancé, she sets out to find out why he hid it from her. The answer just might be her complete undoing.

I highly recommend Ladies of Intrigue!

Three wonderful historical romance novellas.

Each of these stories is set in a different time period and setting. I thoroughly enjoyed this variety. The main characters are all fantastic and well developed. The plots are all great and kept my interest.

The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady - I found that this story really looks at the necessity of taking time to not jump to conclusions about a person’s character without getting to know their motives.

The Doctor’s Woman - I loved seeing how the doctor and the daughter of the missionary doctor learned to work together.

A House of Secrets - Trying to keep secrets is never a good way to treat the woman you are engaged to.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.

I love reading historical books, I love that these books are all set in different time period.



1. The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady
Cornish Coast, 1815 A very interesting story. Helen is definitely not a good horse rider. She does do a good job in caring for her dying father.

2. The Doctor’s Woman
Dakota Territory, 1862

I loved the way Emmy cared for the sick even though she wasn’t a doctor or nurse. She had assisted her father and after he passed she helped the new doctor. I really enjoyed these kind of stories.

3. A House of Secrets

St Paul, Minnesota, 1890

Amanda is in search of who owns the brothel but she is definitely in for a surprise. I loved how determined she was.

Three different stories, they were all really good. I did have a favorite one but will not say which one it was. My favorite could be different from someone else’s. Read the book and see what you think.

I received an complimentary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.

Michelle Griep is an author that transports her reader into the time period of the story. Once again, she took me on a journey. I got to meet new friends and learn about myself through them. I love this about any book. Ms. Griep does it with such ease. The stories are entertaining and fun. Normally I don't like short stories. I feel like they're rushed and missing something. Such was NOT the case with these stories. They were well balanced and crafted to be perfect bites. I'm sure she could have elongated each story into a full book but I got just enough in the short form it didn't leave me feeling like I missed out. I loved how the stories connected through the book. I didn't feel jarred when I went from one story to the next. It's a great read for a lazy summer afternoon, a cold winter night, or any other time when you just want to escape for a little bit. I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from CelebrateLit and the publisher. I was in no way required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

I was an immediate fan of Michelle Griep after reading my very first novel of hers. Since that day, it has been my intent to read everything she writes so I was quite happy to be given a chance to review her most recent collection Ladies of Intrigue. This particular book includes three vastly different novellas with different settings and time frames. The one thing each has in common is that at least one of the primary characters hides one or more secrets from the other. With so many secrets, how can true love overcome them?

I enjoyed all three of the distinct stories and find it difficult to choose a favorite. The dark and mysterious Cornish coast with its smuggler hero had its appeal but so did the western Fort Snelling and its city doctor. Then there was the young society lady determined to prove herself by providing a home for underprivileged children whose love interest held a few secrets of his own. Each story was a delight to read and held my interest until the end. Although I usually enjoy shorter format novellas such as these, I found myself not quite ready to let them go when I reached the last page of each one. I would say that is a testament to the excellent talent of Ms. Griep. I loved this book and would recommend it to all who enjoy historical fiction with a touch of intrigue.

Oh, what fun! Three of Michelle Griep’s novellas in one book! I would have finished it in one sitting if I hadn’t started the book later in the evening and had to take a break to sleep. All of the author’s trademarks that makes her books delectable are in these novellas - smooth and easy-to-read writing, descriptive historical settings, strong and lovable characters, nicely laid-out plot, and a steady current of faith infused into the characters. If you enjoy well-written historical romance, you will enjoy this collection of novellas.

The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady takes place in 1815 England as Isaac works secretly as a smuggler to help his impoverished tenants and Helen accidentally discovers his identity. The Doctor’s Woman takes place in 1862 Minnesota as James starts a new position as the fort’s physician and Emmy helps as his assistant after her own physician father passes away. A House of Secrets also takes place in Minnesota but in 1890, as Joseph, the city counsel, works to covertly help women in need but the secrets become a bit too entangled when his fiancée Amanda unwittingly becomes involved in the situation. There is a bit of intrigue in each story with plenty of historical fare and sweet romance.

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

Ladies of Intrigue is a wonderful read by Michelle Griep. It features three separate stories set in the 19th century. Each story has fascinating characters and tons of mystery and romance. I really enjoyed each story, which came as no surprise coming from this amazing storyteller. I highly recommend it! I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.