This is the 3rd book I have read by Michelle Griep and I absolutely love her writing.. the way she weaves a story, just the right pace. Just the right details at the perfect moment makes you want to read more. I loved this book because all three stories were different but with a happy ending. I cannot wait to read more of her works.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing for this complimentary copy.

This is a very good book of three separate stories. Each story is a very enjoyable historical romance . My favorite of the three was A House of Secrets. These were my favorite characters. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit and Netgalley for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

From Dublin to the shores of the Emerald Isle this story has mysteries, secrets and friendships that all together span two decades. I really enjoyed the stories of these three strong and determined women. . Yes, they all tied together, were wonderful stories and fascinating facts of Ireland that I enjoyed, but, I really didn’t like how often the stories jumped back and forth between the women’s lives. I was sometimes having to go back a few paragraphs to see who we had left and now we were into. I did really enjoy the story and if you enjoy history full of mysteries, secrets and strong friendships you should enjoy this one.

Ladies of Intrigue is a collection of love stories set in the 1800s. The novella’s are cute and romantic and enjoyable. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and found each one to be brave in spite of difficulties. I like how Michelle Griep weaved the Lord’s truth throughout each story.

I recommend this book to my family and friends.
I received this book from the publisher to read and give my honest opinion.

I really enjoyed this book. The stories were excellent and I adored the writing as usual. I think my favorite of these was the final one. I could not put it down!

My first introduction to Michelle Griep was through one of her novellas, so it’s fitting that Ladies of Intrigue is a compilation of three formerly published novellas.

Each story features women who stand for what’s good and right as well as a man who, while it takes some time, come to admire that attribute about them. From an English governess to a healer in the wilds of Minnesota to a high-society ladies’ auxiliary chairwoman, Griep quickly immerses he r readers into each of her story settings while sweeping them away in the adventures of these three couples.

I had previously read a couple of these novellas, but it was sure fun to visit those people and places again. And that is the mark of a favorite author.

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.

This is a perfect weekend read collection! I loved each of the three stories and their characters. I could have seen Helen and Isaac’s story go on for much longer! It was engaging and well written with a fun meet between the two. Emmy and James had great chemistry with snappy dialogue. The danger of the fort and Indians was a perfect setting. Amanda and Joseph each have their honorable intentions towards people they want to help, but have quite the obstacles to overcome. Great intrigue and romance in this one! A truly lovely collection that I can see myself reading over and over again. I got this from Celebrate Lit Team and was not required to write a review.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Ms. Griep's style of writing and word usage just plops you right down in whatever setting the story takes place.
The romance happens quickly in the first two stories (in the third the characters are already engaged), but such is the nature of novellas.
I was confused by the title women of intrigue, I was expecting spy stories, they are not, but rather women of strength standing against all that life can throw at them. I love the lessons of first impressions are not always what they seem. I also loved the variety in the historical timeline. All three stories have elements of humor and adventure.
I’m not a novella fan, I always feel that the story should have been deeper and longer, but these were fun and quick. I did learn that these three stories are not new, but are repackaged from other novella collections. Since, I had not read them previously, this was not a problem for me.
My favorite story is the last one. It felt the most intriguing and kept my interest. Plus I preferred in such a short story to have to characters already "in love" than meeting for the first time.
And while the last story involves shutting down a brothel, everything is dealt with very tactfully, so I would recommend this book even for teenage readers. I think history lovers and those with only a short amount of reading time will love these novellas.

Michelle Griep is one of my favorite authors and I was excited to read Ladies of Intrigue. Although a repackaging of previously published stories, I had not read these novellas before and am glad that I took the time to do so now. Griep has a way with words and knows well how to tell a story. I enjoy the imagery that she uses to draw a reader into her characters' stories. One example that I especially liked is, "Most of the shameless maples had already disrobed for their coming marriage to winter, but a few discreet maidens refused to shed their orange and red leaves." These three stories were set in the 1800s and spanned the globe from Cornwall, England to Minnesota in the United States. Each of the novellas has strong, vibrant characters that are likable and realistic, and is a sweet romance that is fraught with tension, a little mystery and adventure and yet has a satisfactory happily ever after conclusion. Readers who enjoy sweet romances with a touch of mystery and adventure will not want to miss this collection of romance novellas. I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.

“Ladies of Intrigue: 3 Tales of 19th-Century Romance with a Dash of Mystery” by Michelle Griep has been a much anticipated read for me as I love Ms. Grieps’ books! This particular book is a collection of three of her novellas. Each novella can be read as a standalone, but you might as well read them all since each one is amazing!

The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady

Fans of “Poldark” will swoon over this novella that takes place on the Cornish Coast and deals with smuggling. I love the main character, Helen, and her spunk. She may seem like a fragile governess, but she quickly shows that she has another side to her personality. I appreciate the moral dilemma that Isaac (our hero) runs into concerning smuggling. Both characters learn about trusting in God’s provisions. Isaac needs to try to not enact his own justice but to leave it to God. Helen learns about surrendering instead of just pretending. This was my favorite of the novellas because I love the setting and time period.

The Doctor’s Woman

I like the hate-to-love story between the two main characters (Emmy and James) in this novella. Ms. Griep does a great job with the setting and time period (Dakota territory, 1862). Emmy and James both let emotion get the better of them at times and run ahead to help, instead of waiting for God to lead. This often leads to dangerous situations. The characters learn to believe that God is in control.

A House of Secrets

I really enjoyed the cute romance in this story. It also has a nice message that the only good opinion we need is God’s and that we are loved by Him.

Content: Overall, I give this collection a PG rating. Some examples of the content are: Mention of people cursing, but the word isn’t actually written; mention of ale and drunkards; the word “Sheol” is used; men sing bawdy drinking songs; the words “hell” and “devil” are used; some medical descriptions of blood and gore; Native Americans are referred to as “Injuns;” mention of harlots and brothels (in the 3rd novella).

Rating: I give this book 4 stars!

Genre: Christian fiction; Historical; Novellas; Romance

I want to thank Celebrate Lit, Michelle Griep and Barbour Books for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep contains three 19th century romance novellas. The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady takes us to the Cornish Coast in 1815. Helen Fletcher is rushing to Cornwall from Ireland to be by her ill father’s side. As Helen is preparing to depart the ship, a band of renegades’ attack and liberate a shipment of gunpowder. When Helen meets her father’s patron, Isaac Seaton, she is shocked when she is recognizes him as one of the smugglers. Seaton likes Helen’s fiery spirit, but he is afraid she will reveal his secret to the revenue man. Can Seaton persuade Helen to remain silent?

The Doctor’s Woman has readers journeying to Dakota Territory in November of 1862. Dr. Edrith Nelson has passed away and his daughter, Emmy is preparing to leave town when soldiers need assistance with a patient. Dr. James Clark is the new physician at Fort Snelling and, with the recent influx of Native Americans needing medical aide, can use a qualified assistant like Emmy. Emmy agrees to stay and soon clashes with Dr. Clark on their different treatment methods. Can they find a way to work together and where will it lead?

A House of Secrets takes us back to October 1890 in St. Paul, Minnesota. Amanda Carson is the chairwoman of the local Ladies Aide Society and has come up with a new project for their group. She wants to transform the dilapidated Grigg house into a school for the impoverished. Amanda’s search for the owner is met with resistance. She is unaware that her fiancé and city attorney, Joseph Blake uses the home as a safe house for woman who wish to escape from prostitution. If Joseph can just get Amanda to wait a couple of weeks, he will no longer have need of the home. Amanda, though, is a determined woman when she is on a mission. Joseph’s secret could cost him the woman he loves.

Ladies of Intrigue contains three Christian romance stories set in the 1800s. I like the three different locales and the couples in the stories. It is nice to watch the couples learn to trust each other, overcome their differences and fall in love. I thought Ladies of Intrigue was well-written with steady pacing. I did feel that The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady needed more fleshing out. The ending felt incomplete. There are smugglers, soldiers, a dedicated doctor, sick Native Americans, a haunted house, corrupt men, romance, society ladies and much more in Ladies of Intrigue. I enjoyed these three sweet romantic stories with Christian values. If you are looking for a diverting nineteenth century romantic tales, then pick up Ladies of Intrigue.

This volume contains three different stories, each featuring strong women. From the title, I expected suspense, as in other novels I’ve read by the author. However, that’s not the case for all three of these. Yet, the ladies are intriguing and captivate the readers’ interest. The first novella does fit the suspense category. Set in England about 200 years ago, a gentlewoman meets a smuggler as she travels home to care for her ailing father. Yet he is not exactly what he seems. Their tale offers a rollicking ride. The second is quite different—jumping to the American frontier in the mid-nineteenth century. A doctor’s daughter ventures to a fort and finds herself assisting with medical procedures there. Could she find a fulfilling life as a doctor’s wife serving both Indians and soldiers rather than going back to the cultured East? The final entry, set in 1890, does contain suspense—surrounding a deteriorating house, which may come between a woman and her fiancé. All the characters are strong and compelling, as are their stories. Enjoy uncovering the secrets. (Don’t read back cover copy since it reveals too much!) I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

I really enjoyed this novella collection and this cover is so stunning!  Each novella had a different time period and setting which really made each story stand apart.  They all had great characters and compelling plots.  The romance in each of theses stories was really prominent, which was great!  I really enjoyed the variety that this novella collection offers to a historical romance fan!  I would definitely recommend this novella collection to readers who love leading ladies and romance!

Whether through full-length novel or shorter novella format, Michelle Griep consistently delivers a highly entertaining read. All three stories in Ladies of Intrigue, previously published in other collections, are now easily enjoyed under one cover – also perfect for new readers. Although I try not to miss any of Griep’s writing, all three stories were new to me.

From England’s ruggedly beautiful Cornwall coast in 1815, to the Dakota Territories during the Civil War era, and then to St. Paul, Minnesota in 1890, each story features strong lead characters dealing with situations during a troubled time. The characters are fleshed out remarkably well for a novella, romantic chemistry feels real (this is Griep after all, right?), and the storylines pulled me right into the era. But my favorite part was delving into the historical detail of each story and the way the characters responded to their individual situations.

Griep gently weaves spiritual themes and insight into these stories, all reflecting on timeless themes, such as questioning why bad things happen and the need to simply trust in God’s provision and guidance. I couldn’t pick a favorite, for each story is different and moving. Recommended.

I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

This is such a great set of books. The women are so strong and loving. They know what they want and go for it. They are very unselfish and live to help others. The men they love are very protective and faithful. I totally recommend this box set.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book from Netgalley.

I  just finished reading Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep and here are the reasons why this novella is intriguing. 
It has interesting historical settings and details. Each of the three stories deals with some intriguing aspect of history, whether it be smuggling in England, doctoring in the Dakotah Territory, or government issues in St. Paul. While short in length, each story is packed with many fascinating details.
It has fun characters. While, the characters could be developed more if they had a longer story, you still feel as though you get to know them even with the brevity of the time spent with them.
It has some light mystery involved or "dash of mystery" as the subtitle states.  While not enough mystery to actually fit under the mystery genre, the mysteries that are involved add just a touch of adventure and makes you want to keep reading to find out the conclusions of each story.
Who would I recommend this book for? I would recommend it for someone who wants stories that while short are interesting, and for someone who just wants a little mystery but mostly historical romance. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Michelle Griep is one of my favorite authors. I love the way she weaves words together that draw me in so quickly and make me feel like part of the story. Each of these stories are novella length but felt well developed and full. I loved them all but I think that The Gentleman Smuggler's Lady might be my favorite. Helen and Issac's first meet was fantastic. It makes me smile just thinking about it.

You honestly cannot go wrong with this book. Read them all at once, or one at a time. Either way you will find a bit of happy for your day.

Content: mild peril, kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

I mistakenly downloaded this book not realizing it was 3 novellas. While I prefer a full length novel I found myself enjoying this gem. Each story was enjoyable with enough plot to make it interesting and as always the bit of romance adds to the story. Along with good editing and writing the book was a pleasant surprise.

As soon as I heard about Michelle Griep’s “Ladies of Intrigue”, I was drawn in, and I jumped at the chance to review it. Three stories from the nineteenth century, tinged with mystery? Sign me up! Despite the brevity of the stories, each one had a twisting denouement and a swift but satisfying conclusion. They could all have easily been novel-length, but as it was, the rapid pace assured that there was no lagging to the plot. “The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady”, set on the Cornish coast in 1815, reminded me of Abigail Wilson’s “In the Shadow of Croft Towers”, so readers of this short story may enjoy that novel and vice versa. From there Griep takes us to 1862 Minnesota in “The Doctor’s Lady”, which was the least mysterious of the three but full of other conflict, including that between the Indians and the United States during the Sioux Uprising and the dangers of being a single woman during that time. My favorite, however, was “A House of Secrets”, which differed from the previous two stories in both title format and writing style. This last tale was written more poetically and featured characters from the upper class in Minnesota in 1890, and it held the most secrets. Each narrative focused on the characters’ need to trust and rely on God and His provision. It was interesting to trace how women’s roles and societal expectations changed over the decades through the timeline arc of this collection. Historical fiction and romance fans will enjoy these stories, which combine love, the conventions of the past, and the necessity of faith—both then and now.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and CelebrateLit and was under no obligation to post a review.

I absolutely adored ALL of the stories in this set. You simply can’t go wrong with this clean, wholesome collection. These stories are packed with likable, interesting characters, romance, intrigue, mystery and suspense. Every single story is guaranteed to pique your interest and warm your heart.

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley & Barbour Publishing, Inc. / Barbour Books in order to read and provide a voluntary and honest review, should I choose to do so.

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