The lovely Victorian Christmas novella's, written with a Charles Dickens flare. A gold 'second chance' coin places a role in each of the three stories. While each of the stories have some similar themes between them, each story is unique. As with all of Michelle Griep's stories, this one also does not disappoint. A must have addition to any Christmas reading list.

Three great stories!

12 Days at Bleakly Manor:
This one is so good! How lucky am I to get an ARC! Thank you, Michelle and Barbour Publishing.
It gripped me from the first chapter. What happens when the person you loved and thought you knew turns out to be your biggest traitor? And then you come face to face with them and not everything as it seems to be.
I loved the backstory between Clara and Ben. There was so much hurt but also so much love.
And so many twists in this story! And there's even a little cameo appearance by Charles Dickens! How cool is that!
It's a story of second chances and redeemed love, delivered in Michelle Griep's gripping writing style that I've come to expect and love.
Highly recommend!

A Tale of Two Hearts:
What a charming story! I loved all the reference Dickensian references.
William and Mina didn't appear to me right for each other at the beginning. She has a crush on him, but he comes across as not paying attention to her as much as she does to him.
When William realizes that his uncle is more likely to choose him as heir if he's married, he asks Mina to pretend to be be his fiancée. She agrees and, of course, not everything goes smoothly.
The prose is fantastic, as usual, the imagery working as an extent of the setting and theme. The characters are expertly developed and even Charles Dickens himself is referenced throughout.
And can't forget to mention the Dickens quotes at the beginning of each chapter, of course.
Looking forward to #3.
It comes to mind that these short novels are like a nod to Dickens' serials. Maybe?

The Old Lace Shop:
This one has definite nods to North & South, as well as Dickens, of course. I liked how Charles himself had a cameo appearance as Edmund's uncle.
Bella's late husband was very domineering and she's now enjoying the freedom that comes with being a widow.
Bella and Edmund knew each other before, but it's been a while, and their lives are now different. Edmund is not excited to see Bella as the majority partner and he hides a lot from her.
Bella wants to do good and improve the conditions of those she can.
I really liked how their relationship rekindled and how they developed a new friendship and then grows into something more.
The setting is right on, with all the social problems of the time.
An excellent read!

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my opinion. (less)

Michelle Griep, self-proclaimed “author, blogger, and occasional super-hero when her cape is clean.” knows how to do heartwarming, wholesome historical fiction.

In her three-novella series, she provides a Dickensian-feel to bring on the Christmas cheer and leave you to feel like you’ve been sitting fireside – all warm and cheerful on the inside.

My favourite of the three novellas included was the first (12 Days at Bleakly Manor), but they were all appealing within their own right. These titles balance mystery with romance and a sprinkling of faith (but not in a heavy-handed obnoxious way.) The recipe leaves you with a delightful narrative that you’ll want to enjoy curled up in a cozy place with a tea – even better if there’s a Christmas tree illuminated in the corner.

Published September 1st, and available for purchase now.

My thanks to the author and publisher, Shiloh Run Press, an imprint of Barbour Books. I was provided with a complimentary title via NetGalley and all thoughts are my own.

Review scheduled to be published via my blog (https://lifelovelaughterlinds.home.blog/?p=849) September 16, 2019, 2pm EDT.

This is my new favorite Christmas inspired collection!! I knew that I would love it because I live anything that the author has written. I have read the first story in this collection but when I saw that there were the other 2 which I had not read I just had to request it. If you want a fun cozy read that will pull your heartstrings then settle down with your favorite beverage and read this collection. It’s never two early for Christmas

A charming trio of Victorian novellas with a Dickensian flair - and even the man himself! I loved the first two stories and had read them previously as individual books, but the third, The Old Lace Shop, was new to me, and quickly became my favorite. I’m a huge fan of the second chance at love stories, and this one was so sweet, without being too saccharine. Love and relationships are messy and not always easy, but these stories bring just the right amount of grace and forgiveness to keep the love alive.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Such a delightful collection of Christmas stories by Michelle Griep! The three stories are loosely tied together by Charles Dickens and a coin that is passed on from person to person reminding each of that “second chance” gifted by God, even in the direst of circumstances. It’s amazing that the author can move between vastly different settings during the Victorian era to bring forth these stories that fit so well as a package, brimming with hope, grace, forgiveness, and redemption. Each story is well-written with a seamless plot and lovable characters.

“12 Days at Bleakly Manor” carries mystery and intrigue as invited houseguests vie for “something special” if they can last through the twelfth night of Christmas celebration at Bleakly Manor. “A Tale of Two Hearts” showcases two cousins vying for inheritance from an old rich uncle but both become embroiled in lies and half-truths. “Old Lace Shop” features former sweethearts broken by cruelty in previous marriage and life circumstances who end up as partners in a lace factory. This story is told in first person present tense, which makes it quite unique. In all three stories, there are snippets of England’s history that provide the setting and events as well as spiritual truths.

If you’re a fan of historical romance, this collection of Dickensian Christmas stories will captive you. I received a copy of the book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

12 Days at Bleakly Manor
Imagine being invited to a strange manor or castle, if you will, for the 12 days of Christmas. You have no idea who else is invited, but your life is so messed up you figure you might as well check it out. Such is a little of the history urging our heroine, Clara, into this somewhat bizarre solicitation. Besides, who wouldn’t go to a house party if you’re going to receive 500 pounds just for staying all 12 days.

I absolutely loved the variety of players in this entertaining story. With embezzlement, prison, theft, something missing and other mysteries this tale keeps you wondering the whole time - who really will win it all? Is it possible each of the players will find what they can for? Will Clara finally find her real value by giving everything to the Lord?

A Tale of Two Hearts
What a delightful story! I loved all the detail and obvious research the author put into bringing us to Charles Dickens time. The smell of the kidney pie, the coolness of the air and even the snow made me feel like I had left for a world so different than mine. Woven into this lovely setting is the eternal knowledge that mercy is available for all, you need only be willing to ask. Second chances don't only happen in books - the choice is yours for the taking, something the characters in this story discover for themselves.

The Old Lace Shop
‘Either your faith will move mountains, or your doubt will create them.’

The author has done it again! A lovely book set in London and Nottingham in 1855. Mrs. Bella White has experienced the ugly side of marriage and has somewhat gratefully seen her husband laid to rest. What it has done for her is to give her a second chance at life and perhaps even love. Selling all but the Nottingham Lace and Hose company she leaves that unhappy life behind, totally unaware of what lies ahead.

I loved the courage, faith and love displayed by Bella. Would that we were all so generous with our time, money if available and caring for those less fortunate than ourselves. Her second change brought unexpected blessings which benefited those around her. Perhaps we all need to avail ourselves of that second chance!

I received this collection through NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. The impressions, opinions and five star rating are my own.

Once Upon a Dickens Christmas
By Michelle Griep
These three Christmas stories were so fun with a lively twist to the tales we are used to hearing each year. I thoroughly enjoyed this collection. There were mystery, intrigue, love and three-second chances to keep you glued to the pages.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

True confessions: I haven't read much Dickens. I read (and loved) A Tale of Two Cities in my youth. I think that is the only one I've actually read. I've seen movie adaptations for others but haven't read them. So I am at a disadvantage to know if anything besides the title is based on his books or if these novellas are just written to sound Dickensian. Is the second chance coin from Dickens? I need to read Dickens obviously.
These three novellas are tied together by a bit of Dickens himself, the use of a second chance coin and a second chance at love. I love second chance romance. Sigh...

12 Days at Bleakly Manor: This story in many ways was pretty bleak. It kind of reminded me of Clue except without the humor and murder. There was attempted murder though. The characters were a mix of quirky and sweet and the whole situation was rather creepy and a little dark. But most of the characters seemed to get what they came to the manor for even if it wasn't what it seemed at first. The two main characters were lovely people who deserved to be together despite the evils of men. Everything tied up pretty neatly in a bow for a happily ever after.

A Tale of Two Hearts: I also enjoy fake relationship stories so this was fun for me. I wondered through the whole thing how this would play out keeping Mina's reputation in tact, saving the uncle, and putting the inheritance right where it belonged. And it did all three though not how one might expect.

The Old Lace Shop: Talk about walking into your second chance at love. Too bad they both suffered years before they could get to their happily ever after. The epilogue took me by surprise and I kept expecting it would tie in more directly but I liked the way it ended.

Each story is laced with Christian themes (as is befitting Christmas tales).

Sex: no.
Language: no
Violence: yes

I have never read a book by Charles Dickens. Not even the famous A Christmas Carol. I am, however, familiar with some of his story titles, like Bleak House and a Tale of Two Cities. So the play on words in Once Upon a Christmas (12 Days at Bleakly Manor and A Tale of Two Hearts) appealed to me. I'm still not sure what Dickens story The Old Lace Shop was built around, but it doesn't matter because Michelle Griep created three delightful stories that swept me away and kept me reading until the wee hours of the morning.

While each story has its own unique characters, the central theme of having a second chance at life, love and redemption ran through them all - making the entire book seem like one big novel, with Charles Dickens (and one gold coin) making guest appearances (where needed), in each story. I loved it!

Best line in the book - "Either your faith will move mountains, or your doubt will create them." I will take this with me from now on as I found it encouraging and inspiring.

I cannot say which story was my favourite as they were all entertaining, with mystery, romance, and of course, a bit of Christmas cheer thrown in — making this book a "must-have" for the Christmas season!

I think the subheading of the book title says it all. All 3 of these tales are charming in a very Dickensian manner. While I can't say I'm keen on classic literature in general, that which I've read of Charles Dickens I've thoroughly enjoyed. For that reason, I was drawn to this collection. I'd also heard great things about this one and the author (this was my first book of Michelle Griep's. It won't be my last!). I was very glad I opted to check this one out!

All 3 of the stories contained within are stand-alone tales, but they are all connected by a mysterious "second chance coin" which brings a redemptive theme into each of the stories, as well as Charles Dickens himself, who is personally a part of each story. That was a particularly fun element for me (particularly in 12 Days at Bleakly Manor). Also, some of the minor characters weave in and out of the different stories and it's fun to see the stories connect with those characters and with the coin. The major characters in each tale drew along the solid faith thread of the stories and were immensely likeable. I'm pretty sure Mina Scott (A Tale of Two Hearts) and I would be great friends. I enjoyed the story lines and the characters, the faith and redemptive themes, as well as the realism and the heartaches included within. While I think I enjoyed the first story (12 Days at Bleakly Manor) overall the best, I liked the characters the best in the 2nd tale (A Tale of Two Hearts) and the third tale (The Old Lace Shop) had such a satisfying ending.

All in all, I would highly recommend this collection to fans of historical romance and those who enjoy Charles Dickens. Special thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for an ecopy of this book. I was in no way obligated to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

An unusual trio of stories that I enjoyed very much, each story was connected to the others in some way. Each included Charles Dickens in the story, and all were Christmas oriented. Fun reading! Good, clean Christian stories I will enjoy reading again!

Three lovely stories all connected by a gold second chance coin.
The stories are tied together by Charles Dickens, lots of his quotes from all his books are scattered throughout the tales and his character also appears in the story. Set during the Christmas in Victorian England. 1850s
Very quick and easy to read.
In the first tale - Trio of hearts a bunch of very different individuals are invited to stay at Bleakly Manor and the last person to be there on the twelve night will get his or her wish come true.

Mina Scott is the main character in A tale of two hearts. Mina is persuaded to pretend to be married to Will Barlow to help him become the heir to his uncles estate. She is a kind soul and wants nothing more than to make sure Uncle is safe and that those in need are helped.

The last tale The Old Lace Shop is set in Nottingham and features a lace making factory. When Bella’s abusive husband dies she inherits a half share in the factory and discovers her new partner is her old love Edmund. They have to deal with sabotage, poverty and sadness in this Victorian timed novel.

Recommended if you like historical fiction romances. Nice to read and reread at Christmas time.

All my thoughts are my own and thank you for an ARC from Net galley and Michelle Griep.

HAVING READ & REVIEWED THE PREVIOUS 2 BOOKS IN THIS TRILOGY, I WILL START WITH THE NEWEST, AND THEN COPY / PASTE THE OTHERS BELOW IT.

The Old Lace Shop – Once Upon A Dickens Christmas Book #3
•°o•:*:•. Interesting, but 1st Person Present Tense a Bit Odd .•:*:• o°•
This book was a bit hard for ME to read being told in 1st person, switching back and forth between the two lead characters. It was rather like reading someone’s diary.
“It may be a poor decision, but I’ve been told one too many times what to do, how to live, when to breathe and eat and walk. A scream wells in my throat, and I use its energy to lift my chin.”
The story was interesting and is set in 1855. Mrs. White is a recent widow after being married to an extremely brutal man (which is referenced frequently throughout the story) 50 years older than her. After selling nearly all his business, she decides to keep one; an old lace factory in Nottingham. “I have an occupation. Me. A woman who’s lived invisibly for twenty-seven years.” She has no idea the one man she ever loved is to be her business partner; Edmund Archer.
Edmund is fair and trying to run the lace factory as best he can, but unsure how he will manage to keep it running. There are machine problems, employee problems and competitors in the area or are keen to see him fail. In addition to this, he has a long-kept secret at home. He fully expects to take over as full owner now that his partner has passed away. The last thing he ever expected to see was Bella.
TEA MOMENT: “It is magical how a hot cup of tea on a brisk morning can calm the most savage of moods.”
FAITH QUOTE: “Perhaps God handed me this opportunity as a second chance to start life over, freed from the oppressive shadow of men.”
Another SURPRISE guest appears in this story in Edmund’s uncle which readers will enjoy.
I did not connect as much with the story, however, as it was wrapping up I enjoyed some special moments quite a bit. (3 Stars)

A Tale of Two Hearts – Once Upon A Dickens Christmas Book #2
•°o•:*:•. Book Lover’s Dream .•:*:• o°•
London, 1853 Miss Wilhelmina Scott, aka Mina, serves in her father’s inn, The Golden Egg. But, she much prefers to have her nose in a good book such as ‘David Copperfield’ or daydream of her ‘brown-haired hero’, William Barlow. Miss Whymsy is her former governess and co-conspirator in lending her books and enlisting her help with The Single Women’s Society of Social Reform. Effie is another dear friend who helps guide her in the story and added prayer, older wisdom, and grounding to her life.
William Barlow frequents her father’s taproom with his good friend and fellow law clerk, Mr. Fitzroy. Mina has been taken with him for the better part of a year and is shocked when he suddenly suggests she become his pretend bride. He is trying to overcome a besmirched past and to win the favor of his uncle while thwarting his scheming cousins, Percy and devious wife Alice.
Uncle Barlow is a dear, kind man who enjoys books as much as Mina and is trying to ascertain the best candidate to inherit his home and fortune before he formally names an heir.
TEA MOMENT: “He’s invited me to a tea of all things.” His voice smooth as fresh flowing honey, grew louder the closer she drew to his table. Can you imagine that Fitz? A tea. How awful.” A smile curved her mouth as she imagined taking tea with William. Just the two of them. Him in his finest frock coat with a snowy cravat. Her in a new gown. She’d pour a steaming cup for him, and he’d lift a choice little cake to her lips while speaking of his deepest affections. She sighed, warm and contented. “I should think a tea would be very pleasant she murmured.” Both men turned toward her.
SPECIAL QUOTE: “God’s children are never truly alone – especially in a world filled with books.” Miss Whymsy Ch.19
A SURPRISE guest happily appears at the end of the story that caused my mouth to fall open.
I truly enjoyed this story. (5 Stars)

12 Days at Bleakly Manor – Once Upon A Dickens Christmas Book #1
•°o•:*:•. Wow! Game of ‘Clue’ set in 1850 London .•:*:• o°•
This story had so many twists and turns and really kept me guessing. It very much reminded me of the game of Clue with its quirky characters and mysterious manor. It kept me guessing all the way through. Each person had received an invitation to celebrate the Twelve Days of Christmas (Dec 25 to Jan 5). Each guest received a cryptic invitation and would win a gift important only to them IF they could last the entire time. Kindhearted Clara and honorable Benjamin each received invitations, not knowing the other had as well. Each had suffered much, and finding their way back to each other was unexpected for both, but because of their faith and buried love for one another, it was not as difficult as they would have imagined. The big reason for the mystery was not one I would have guessed AT ALL! What a fun and unique surprise. A favorite supporting character was Miss Scurry and her box of “friends”. She was a kind hearted elderly lady who just wanted companionship.
I enjoyed this story very much, and the cover is gorgeous! (5 Stars)

I received an advance eCopy from NetGalley & the Publisher, in exchange for my honest opinion with no further compensation.
SERIES: Once Upon A Dickens Christmas
Book #1 - 12 Days at Bleakly Manor September 2017
Book #2 A Tale of Two Hearts is expected in September 2018
Book #3 The Old Lace Shop September 2019

When a new story from Michelle Griep shows up, I quickly snatch it up to read. And this collection of Christmas tales does not disappoint. The first two stories in the book, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor and A Tale of Two Hearts were released before and The Old Lace Shop is the newest addition to this series. Each tale is a stand-alone story and the three are loosely tied together by a second chance coin, often given to someone in dire circumstances and a cameo appearance by Charles Dickens. The characters are great--evocative, vibrant and likable. In each story, the hero and heroine have had difficult situations to work through in their past and for one reason or another are now in a situation where they must work together to make things work out for their future. And, of course, there is a villain! Each story gripped me right from the start and just got better and better with twists to the plot, topsy-turvy happenings that keep the reader's attention and a delightful romance. The author has a definite thread of faith in God woven throughout the story, reminding readers that He is a God who loves to give His children second chances. As each story comes to a dramatic conclusion, the reader, along with the characters wonder how in the world will God be able to straighten out the tangled situation. The author brings the Victorian age alive with delightfully descriptive prose and as she tells of traditions, lifestyles and even some recipes that were found during that time period. If you are a reader who loves charming stories set in Victorian England you will not want to miss this book.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

I am never disappointed with Michelle Griep and have been waiting awhile for her third Christmas installment. I was not disappointed, and the wait was worth every moment. Not many authors can capture such depth in a short novella, but in each of these three stories, you will meet and fall in love with the characters. The writing is genuine and complex, and I loved every moment. Were I asked to pick a favorite, I could not. The stories will transport you to the everyday life in the dark but redemptive realities of London’s streets. Life was hard for many, but love was able to overcome even the steepest barriers. The authenticity will keep you engaged and be watchful for the guest appearance of Dickens himself!

'I have long abhorred black. It is a great abyss, sucking in the colours of the rainbow and wringing the life out of them.'

Thus begins 'The Old Lace Shop', the final offering in this collection from Michelle Griep, whose books I absolutely never miss. With an opening line like that, you are drawn in and you don't let go until the last word. Griep knows how to fashion a story and wrap her readers around it in a wonderful way. I was excited to read this final installment in her series and I'm very glad I did. I enjoyed it so much! Recommended. Do not miss this one.

*My thanks to Barbour Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. All opinions stated here are entirely my own.

I love a good Victorian read, especially anything that is Dickensesque (Charles Dickens), and also especially if it's by Michelle Griep. She's become an instant must read author for me! Anytime I see that she has a new book out I can't wait to grab a copy and devour it! This collection has two books that were previously published in this series. The last book is the third book in this series and the new book. So if you have already read the first two books, you will be excited to have the next book available to read. And, I have to say that I think it's my favorite of the three! It was so good!

If you haven't read any of these books, then you're in for a treat! All three books in the series in one lovely book (I love the cover)! Click the links for my individual reviews if you're interested to know what is in store for you (no spoilers)!



~12 Days at Bleakly Manor~ 4*~

Ok, I LOVE Bleak House by Charles Dickens, as well as, And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie and I LOVED how Michelle Griep combined the two of these together. I loved the ending of the book and how everything came together and the hows and whys of it all. So much fun. If you've read either of the above books that I mentioned then you will have fun reading this book and seeing the similarities. If you haven't read either of those books, grab them now or snatch this one up and it will have you wanting to pick up either of those above mentioned stories to figure out the references.

There were several times when a character would make a comment and I would look over at my husband and say, you've got to hear what this character said. He would listen, smile and say "hey that's so and so from Bleak House". I read a few scenes out loud to him and we both really enjoyed it lots.

Clara and Ben are two great MCs. At the beginning there is the mystery of who are these people, why are they in these circumstances and why are they the ones chosen to attend this 12 Days of Christmas at Bleakly Manor? The accidents, incidents, intrigue, mystery and the feeling of constantly being watched definitely made this a great cozy mystery.

Oh, I want to tell you so much about this story but I don't want to spoil any of the surprises or outcomes. Typing this I'm going through all the characters in my head and thinking about their individual little nuances. I start to say that one is my favorite over the other but then I think about them in Bleak House and just smile and think, "I like them all". Well maybe saying I like them isn't quite right, because some of these characters are just despicable, but I will say I like the way that the author wrote the characters. So fun.

Yes this is a "Christmas" story. It is set at Christmas time but I think you would have fun reading this at any time of the year. Especially if you enjoy Dickens, Christie and Griep! I think this would make a fun movie...Masterpiece, if you're reading this grab the rights to it fast! I would watch it and love it! Grab yourself a copy, settle in with a cozy blanket, your favorite reading snack/drink and see how fast you can solve the mystery. My family loves watching Masterpiece Theatre, and the best part about watching it together is we all have to make a prediction about whodunnit within the first few minutes of the show. Can you do that with this book? Probably not within the first few minutes, but can you predict and be correct in your guess within the first 10 chapters? Or will it be a surprise to the end for you?

If you haven't read any books by this author, I highly recommend doing so. I've read a novella and this is my second novel by her. I am wanting to adjust my reading schedule to move her books up my list. Great writing, great storyline, loved the mystery and especially the characters. Here's my shoutout to the 'day of reckoning' and 'shake me up'. If those don't make sense, well just read the book and Bleak House as well. Loved it!

I didn't really mention anything about the sweet love story within this story. I loved the second chance given to the MCs. The love and trust that saves them all. I won't say anything past that except I loved watching that relationship unfold and grow. *happy contented sigh*

Content: Clean. A few moments of peril but nothing graphic. Christian aspects are throughout, characters do call out to God in their thoughts and ask for His guidance. Very well done and fits perfect with this time period and characters.



~A Tale of Two Hearts~ 5*~

Isn't it just a wonderful feeling when you read a book and while reading it you feel so happy and content? Then to finish it and you're still contemplating the story and characters that have left you changed and wanting to do better/be better? I sure love that feeling and that is definitely how I felt while reading Michelle Griep's latest book. I absolutely love Charles Dickens. Confession-I've read several of his books but not all, but I have watched and rewatched several different adaptions of most of his books and absolutely love his characters and his way of showing life and people, struggles and triumph. I loved his little cameo in one of the scenes of this book but I especially loved how much our heroine, Mina Scott, loved Dickens' works. Plus as readers we get a little bonus throughout this book, the beginning of every chapter has a quote from different books by Dickens and the quote fits perfect with the chapter and what is happening with the characters in the upcoming scenes.

I loved the title of this book and the play on Dickens' book title A Tale of Two Cities. I loved these two characters who are flawed, have past mistakes, struggles and yet there is hope and goodness in them. They have dreams and desires that are good and are trying to navigate life the best they can. Sometimes they don't make the best choices and problems ensue because of those choices. But, I loved watching the inner turmoil. Isn't that how we all are? We have to make choices constantly. Sometimes those choices lead us where we want to go, or where we think we should go. And sometimes those choices lead us down paths that we shouldn't go and we wish we could take back heading in that direction. Michelle Griep illustrates so beautifully this concept of choices, mistakes and redemption in this story. Second chances can mean the world of difference in a life. Are we willing to offer them so that we might receive them?

Mina is such a sweet character. I loved her hope, her character not dwelling on her past struggles as much as she could have. Her dreams are very real and she tries to reach for them as well as trying to be kind and helpful to those in need. She's not afraid to own up to her mistakes even though it is hard. Fabulous character and perfect for William Barlow who needs a little bit more patience, love and understanding than he sometimes might deserve. That said, I didn't quite know if I would like his character at the beginning. But as more was revealed, I grew to like him. I wasn't always impressed with his choices but I could see his intent and cheered him on when he finally started realizing the path that would lead him to happiness.

If you haven't read the first book in this Once upon a Dickens Christmas series, it isn't necessary for reading this second book. But it is also an enjoyable read and another fun tribute to Charles Dickens. Definitely two books that I would recommend. And it doesn't even have to be Christmas time to read them, although that would be a great time to read them.

Content: Clean. Nothing beyond kissing. Christian topics are discussed, especially redemption and second chances but was not preachy for those readers who don't necessarily like Christian fiction because of a lot of religious talk. I think most readers would enjoy this book, Christian fiction fans or not.



~ The Old Lace Shop~ 5*~

Oh my heavens! I started reading this last night thinking I'd only read a couple chapters. Ha! Hahaha! Hahahahaha! Silly me. I don't know why I always think that. Especially when it's a book from a favorite author written in a favorite genre. Let's just say that I read almost all of the book. It was that good.

I was instantly pulled into the world of Mrs. Arabella White. The emotions and imagery were very powerful. I ached for her. I cheered for her. She is a heroine that I adored and couldn't wait to see where her newfound strength took her.

Without giving away anything, I will tell you that she ends up in Nottingham as the majority shareholder of the Lace and Hose shop. She has no experience or understanding but feels that she must do this. When she comes face to face with the other owner, Edmund Archer, she is stopped dead in her tracks!

Bella and Edmund have a history together. Yet so much has happened in both their lives that they are different people than they were years before. They have both endured heartache and sorrow. They are both striving to be better and stronger than they were before. These two were very well written characters and ones that were easy to understand and cheer for in their endeavors.

If you are a fan of Victorian novels, Charles Dickens and Elizabeth Gaskell (think North and South-*happy sigh*) you will enjoy this lovely read. This is definitely my favorite of the three books in the series. I've really enjoyed them all, but this one, hands down, is my favorite! Probably because I am a huge fan of North and South. Like, I watch the miniseries regularly. I think I have it memorized. So yes, I loved this book!

There are some secrets and surprises, struggles and suspense, bad guys and blind ladies, friends and foes, and many, many more wonderful aspects scattered throughout this lovely read! Definitely I highly recommend for any Michelle Griep fan, and for any who haven't yet read her works. You can read any of these books as stand alone novels. If you've read the books, we did get to see Mr. Barlow and a couple other minor characters in this one.

Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Nothing more than a couple sweet kisses. This is a Christian fiction novel so the characters do mention God and have thoughts where they are talking to Him. Nothing preachy but well written. I felt it helped the story and flowed nicely with everything, as well as how the people living in that time would have acted and thought anyway.

I received a copy from the publisher, Shiloh Run Press, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

Lift your spirits at Christmas or anytime in this delightful collection of stories by talented author Michelle Griep! The three Victorian tales include 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, A Tale of Two Hearts, and The Old Lace Shop. While each novella is its own story, they are loosely connected by the mention of Charles Dickens and a special gold coin. I love the faith element woven seamlessly throughout each story, the ways Griep has incorporated Charles Dickens differently in each novella, and the themes of redemption and second chances. Read your way to Christmas cheer with these three sweet and heartwarming holiday romances! Highly recommend this collection!
#OnceUponADickensChristmas. #NetGalley

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.

I'm so delighted to see the entire Dickens trilogy in one volume. I had already read books one and two, so in reviewing this title I added book three, The Old Lace Shop. It was every bit as good as the first two stories.
The crossover of characters from one book to the next continues, each book having a main character that appears as a side note in other stories, and the Second Chance Coin continues to change hands as characters pay its significance forward. I love how this symbol of faith winds its way through all the stories spreading the message of forgiveness, faith, and the opportunity for new beginnings.
This installment finds Bella White a free woman following the death of her abusive husband, and eager to make her own way. Bella has vowed never be dependent on a man again and never to let another man crush her under his heel. In a spur of the moment decision she decides to keep one of her late husband's business holdings and move to a small town as majority owner of a lace manufacturing company. Bella knows she will be challenged as a woman taking over majority ownership of a business in a man's world, but nothing prepares her for finding that her new business partner is an old love...
Bella tries to figure out the lace industry while Edmund struggles to figure out Bella and his mixed feelings for her. Amidst their conflicting feelings for each other, the two are faced with a struggling business, corporate espionage, family secrets, and a host of elderly ladies who are cast-offs of the lace-making business. Their faith in God is the only way they'll be able to sort it all out.
I love passing on Michelle Griep's stories as gifts to my family and friends. This book is a perfect Christmas gift because although the stories are all full-length stories, they each check in at around 150 pages, making them perfect to enjoy over a holiday break. Griep's stories are always sweet, clean romance, and although I usually tear up at some point, they are not Hallmark-y stories. I'm no a fan of Nicholas Sparks or tear-jerker romances, but I love Griep's sweet stories. A fellow reader described them well as passing on a message of faith in God and God's redemption without being "preachy". They could easily be a gift to a lover of historical fiction and sweet romance who needs a nudge in their faith. This is a great time of year to pick up this collection and enjoy them as fall approaches and through the holiday season.