This book has 3 different stories where a different female character is the focus in each. In the first, The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady - In 1815 England, when a parson becomes deathly ill, his daughter is summoned across the seas to tend him in his last days. Discovering that his “kind” caretaker and benefactor is the one and the same man who was smuggling items off of the ship at her port of arrival and subsequently manhandled her came as quite a shock. Furthermore, as she gets to know this man on a more personal level, she can’t help but see all of the good in him. She is drawn to him like no other and ultimately realizes that he fills a void that has been in her heart. This book is recommended for anyone who is a fan of 19th century England, and stories where the characters fall for each other quickly. The problems of smuggling in the plot seemed to lack some depth, leaving that problem/ solution portion of the story feeling too basic. This likely stemmed from it being a novella rather than a full-length novel. The romantic relationship had the same problem of seeming all of a sudden for the same reason. Because of this, I would rate this story at a 3/5.

The second story, The Doctor’s Woman- In 1863 Minnesota, a missionary’s daughter and a city doctor must join forces to treat officers and native captives over a cold winter at a military fort. It will take a shared knowledge of medicine and an openness to natural cures to heal the many illnesses challenging them over those months of working closely together. The progression of their romance flowed smoothly and naturally without being rushed. The storyline felt complete and worked well for a novella without needing to have more to the story. Overall, it was a pleasant read deserving of a 4/5 rating.

Finally, in House of Secrets- In 1890 St. Paul Minnesota, a mystery surrounds the ownership of a dilapidated old house. A city attorney and ladies aide society member, while making a lovely couple indeed, have differing views on how the home should be used at the present. The romantic points in this story were well written and delightful. It was a classic good overcomes evil type of ending, deserving of a 3.5/5 rating.

I noticed that although this 3 in 1 book of Novellas is touted as having a dash of mystery, House of Secrets appeared to be the only one of the three that, in my opinion, has any mystery element at all. Two of the three Novellas kept the plot moving along seamlessly, and the reader was less likely to want to put down the book before finishing story. I’d give it an overall 3.75 rating.

I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The title page grabbed me! LADIES OF INTRIGUE. Three amazing stories of romance and intrigue along with lively, unforgetable characters.

Our first story, The Gentleman's Smuggler's Lady, made me stop and think. This story is about smugglers, and a lady. But how will she become involved? The year is 1815, an historical year. That intrigued me too. Our story is also about an ailing father who happens to live in Cornwall, England, and a vessel named, Nancarrow. As the lady was about to disembark this vessel, one of the smugglers, holding a gun, grabbed up the lady while she was screaming, ran down the gangplank, jumped on his horse, and they were off before the captain could bat an eye. This part really excited me! Where was he taking her? Who is this man that had suddenly kidnapped her and took off with her? Was he trying to save her? If so, from whom? From what? As I read more the intrigue rose as the plot thickened. Will love bring them together,or tear them apart? What will happen next?

Our next intriguing story, THE DOCTOR'S WOMAN, made me think of a hospital and sick people. Especially when it opened up with so much sadness. That first sentence had me. Why so much sorrow? The year was 1862. Another historical story that took me back to the past. Back to another place and another time. This part touched my heart. To feel what this woman felt. To see what this woman saw.This story happened in Mendota, Minnesota, at Emmy Nelson's place of abode, and two people in her life that had slipped away. With a broken heart she didn't know how she would be able to move on and face the future. That part made me feel so sad for her in her greiving moments. Then Dr. James Clark showed up in her life. Could this be the death of a dream? Or was she about to embark on a new beginning? Only Michelle Griep, and her wonderful writing could take me on such a high adventure.

Our third intriguing story, A HOUSE OF SECRETS, gave me a lot to think about. What kind of secrets could this house hold? If it could talk, what could it tell us? And about whom? The year is 1890, another historical year. Our story takes place in St. Paul, Minnesota, and Maggie, while waiting for Joseph to get there for a dinner party, was contemplating on the new service project, and she being the new chairwoman of the Ladies' Aide Society. Plus; People say the house that she is interested in is in need of repair, and also haunted, and that some have actually heard things while inside the old house. What other secrets will the house reveal? How will this effect the project? Another blast into the past read!

I enjoyed the format of this book -- 3 historical fiction novellas. I also liked the skillful blend of mystery and romance. This is my first read by Michelle Griep, but I look forward to looking for more of her books.

If you haven’t read anything by Michelle yet, what are you waiting for? She is a brilliant writer and I have enjoyed every book I have read by her. This collection is no exceptions.

Each story is unique, engaging and full of action and of course intrigue 🙂

From the beginning of each story you will be tossed into the meat of the plot, there is no tip toeing around to get to the good stuff, you are there from page one.

If you are looking for some short and sweet historical romances look no further than this collection of stories.

A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.

Three separate stories. All intriguing. All involving ladies!

The Gentleman Smuggler's Lady

Set on the Cornish coast Helen returns home to look after her father who is dying. She is quite prim and seeing Isaac she cannot quite figure out whether he is a smuggler and an outcast or a respectable member of Irish society.

The Doctor's Woman

This was a woman who set about doing something extraordinary at a time when women were supposed to be quite submissive and work behind the scenes. Acting as a doctor in most circumstances, she took a lot of people by surprise and upset many at the same time. Set in 1862 she was a pioneer! Much to be admired.


A House of Secrets

Set in 1890 Minnesotta, women still are expected to live and behave within strict boundaries. Amanda's attempts to set things right within a section of society comes up against a lot of odds, surprisingly enough her fiancee. How does one balance love and your beliefs.

All three stories were about strong women who were willing to face social suici

Ladies of Intrigue (2019) is a good collection of novellas by Michelle Griep. This book is available in all forms including eBook, and is 288 pages in length. This collection reads as a stand-alone; it is not necessary to read any of Michelle’s full-length novels to understand the stories in this anthology. With a full-time job and an exceptionally precocious six-year old at home, this novella series took me three days to read. I received a copy of Ladies of Intrigue in eBook form from the publisher, Barbour Books, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give this novella collection 4 STARS. This collection is a Christian Historical Romance anthology.

Story #1
Helen Fletcher judges all by the actions of a few. She closes herself off from others by following a very strict code of self-made laws. A couple of times, Isaac, the hero of this story, explains to Helen that life is not strictly black and white. On this earth, humans live in various shades of gray, and Helen needs to be a little less judgmental and a bit more understanding of the plights of others. Yes, stealing is bad in and of itself and does break one of God’s commandments, but why is one stealing? Is the person stealing because he/she is pure evil and loves to get away with theft, or is the person down on his luck and responsible for a lot of mouths to feed? See — various shades of gray! I appreciate Isaac’s point. I can very much be a Helen who sees the world in stark black and white. But this story reminds me that I need to be more compassionate and more aware of others and their circumstances.

Story #2
Of the three stories in this anthology, I liked this one the best. I love Emmy and James, and I found their interactions to be the most relatable and endearing. What I appreciate the most about this fun story is its message on grace. Emmy is the daughter of a renowned doctor. She has followed her beloved father from patient to patient since she was a little girl. Although not formally educated in medicine, to say Emmy is a natural healer would be an understatement. James, however, is 1000% book smart. He is a city boy with a fancy degree. He knows everything there is to know about modern medicine. You can imagine how Emmy and James clash at first. Each character is sure his/her way is the best way to treat the patients. But over time, and by working side by side, Emmy and James realize that there is a lot to learn from one another. They show grace to one another, and realize just how valuable each one is. When we set ourselves aside for a moment, and pay attention to the God-given skills and talents of those God puts in our paths, we are able to see just how priceless others truly are. What a fantastic message for today!

Story #3
Of the three stories, “A House of Secrets” deals with a topic that resonated with me the most. Amanda, the heroine of this story, is so myopic it blinds her to the goodness and hard work of those around her. She becomes so self-focused on her good plans to help others that she loses sight of God. I am reminded of Matthew 7:21-23 where Jesus states, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’” We humans can get so caught up in our self-righteous plans that we push God away. We are positive that through our plans we are working towards God’s best interests. Then, when things don’t go our way, we self-righteously get mad at God and throw our fists in the air. It is imperative, as Amanda discovers, that we recognize that God is the One and only Boss, and we can only serve His purposes in His way. To know God is to follow His ways — what an excellent and timely message for today’s reader.

Overall, I very much enjoyed my time reading this anthology. Michelle Griep is a very talented story teller and author. I found the plots of each story to be engaging and fast-paced, the characters are unique and endearing, and the messages are timely and inspirational. If you are a fan of good short story anthologies, I highly recommend Ladies of Intrigue.

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 contains three stand along novellas with Michelle Griep's trademark of suspense and intrigue. The story lines vary but all are tension filled. I enjoyed all the stories but my favorite quote came from The Gentleman's Smuggler's Lady. "...Those who leave everything in God's hand will eventually see God's hand in everything..."
Very nicely done, Michelle Griep.