Once Upon a Dickens Christmas is a compilation of three Christmas stories loosely based around tales by Charles Dickens, with cameo appearances by Dickens himself. They are also linked together by a gold second chance coin which can be used to grant the recipient a second chance. Michelle Griep is a master at creating historical fiction that engrosses me. Her characters are colorful, realistic, and true to the time period.

I had read the first two stories, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor and A Tale of Two Hearts, previously and enjoyed them. The Old Lace Shop is the most recent tale, and it is charming and well-crafted. I love the rich imagery that Griep paints and the inspiration and insight she infuses into her stories.
“November is a melancholy month, the gloomy space between summer past and Christmas future. Usually it drapes over me like a burial shroud. This year I laugh in its face.”
“Either your faith will move mountains, or your doubt will create them.”
Bella and Edmund are wonderful, fascinating characters and their courage and compassion make a compelling and uplifting story. The three tales included in the book are perfect for short Christmas reads.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher/NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Two common threads run through the stories. The “Second Chance Coin” which the bearers discover holds far more value than the gold used to fashion it. And Charles Dickens, which shouldn’t be a surprise based on the title. The first two books contained in Once Upon a Dickens Christmas were previously released as stand-alone books. I have previously reviewed A Tale of Two Hearts and so I will not repeat the review here.

Michelle Griep applies her signature tongue-in-cheek humor to create characters who are endearing, quirky, and memorable in these stories and makes Victorian England come alive.

In 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, an unknown host invites an eclectic group to a Christmas house party with an intriguing boon offered to those who stay the full twelve days. The strangers never meet their host and are appalled at the poor fare offered. Yet the bonus for staying, while different for each guest, has each one determined to remain. Until a robbery, a fire, and countless “accidents” have them rethinking their priorities.

I may have loved the clever names of the characters even more than the story. Let me introduce you to a few of them.

Mr. Minnow, an eely thin man
Miss Scurry, a timid older woman who carries a box containing her friends. Mice
Mademoiselle Pretents, the Frenchwoman who looks down her nose at everyone else
The puzzle of the strange occurrences had me wondering. I was surprised to find who was behind the trouble and even more surprised to discover the identity of the host. This was a fun mystery!

The Old Lace Shop offers second chances, and not only to Bella and Edward. Full of surprises, this delightful story revealed the tender heart of the widow who was left with no reason to mourn the death of her husband. Her compassion for the blind women who peopled the town she now considered her home had her determined to find them employment other than begging.

The stories had deep inspirational messages as the characters were reminded to trust God and to look to Him for their help.

If you enjoy Christmas stories and Victorian-era fiction, you won’t want to miss reading Once Upon a Dickens Christmas.

This book combines many things I love: novellas, Christmas stories, Victorian England, and Charles Dickens. What a treat to have it all in one place! Each story had a thread that was common to all three, a second chance coin, as well as some reference to or appearance from Dickens.

The first story “12 Days at Bleakly Manor” had such an unusual premise. I couldn’t figure out why such a mysterious gathering with unusual people was conceived or what purpose there was for it. It’s always nice to be surprised with an unknown direction to a story.

The second story “A Tale of Two Hearts” gave proof to the adage, “Oh what tangled webs we weave when first we practice to deceive.” A simple deception grows and becomes problematic as William strives to protect his uncle and provide for his mother. I really liked William and Mina. Mina has an uncommon strength and I enjoyed her quote quiz-offs with William’s uncle.

In “The Old Lace Shop” I liked that Bella went into a new situation and did what she did best. She saw ways to make improvements and to help others less fortunate in a way that maintained their dignity.

Throughout the stories, I enjoyed the writing. “Sucking in a breath, I package up regret, ignorance, and fear and stow it deep inside my heart to open later in a quiet–and very alone–moment with God” (location 4119).

Thank you to Barbour Publishing for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. I would recommend it. All opinions are my own.

#OnceUponADickensChristmas #Netgalley

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.