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.

An EXCELLENT collection of Christmas stories by a favorite author!

Once Upon a Dickens Christmas is a wonderful collection of three Victorian novellas by Michelle Griep. The first two stories, “12 Days at Bleakly Manor” and “A Tale of Two Hearts” have been previously published but are definitely worth a re-read. The last tale, “The Old Lace Shop” is a new addition, and my favorite of the three. I love getting lost in a story, and Griep does such a masterful job of creating a plot that draws me in with characters that are memorable. Historical inspirational fiction is my favorite genre, but have a low tolerance for over-the-top, eye rolling romance or plot twists. Griep has become one of my favorite authors because she mixes the perfect amount of spiritual insight, intrigue, and character development to keep me turning pages well past my bedtime. You need to read this book!
Thanks so much to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me an advanced copy in order to supply my honest opinion.

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.

Three wonderful Christmas Tales! Each is filled with wonderful characters, second chances, and a wonderous feeling of love.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor has a mystery that drew me in from the first invitation.
A Tale of Two Hearts is a wonderful story of second chances for many of the characters. I loved Mina and Will.
The Old Lace Shop is a surprising second chance at life and maybe even love for Bella. I loved the story so much. I feel the need to warn other readers, grab a tissue or two before you read the last chapter and Epilogue.
I love the second chance coin and the meaning it holds.
Michelle Griep has become part of my Christmas tradition with her Dickens style Christmas tales. I highly recommend reading or listening to this collection! Nan McNamara does a wonderful job narrating.
*I own the first two books in this collection in e-book and Audible form. My thanks to the publisher for an ARC of this book via NetGalley. A review was not required. The opinion expressed is entirely my own.

Three delightful Victorian novellas bound together by a second chance coin, a twist of Dickens, a smidgen of suspense, and wonderful spiritual content.

12 Days at Bleakly Manor

This story reminded me of Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None but without the deaths. Put together a group of strangers each with an invitation to a 12 day get together at Christmas time each with a reward if they stay all 12 days. Place them in a mysterious old mansion in the county; but without much in the way of supplies, and then wait to see what things take place.

Our hero and heroine were once engaged, but Benjamin Lane left Clara Chapman standing at the alter and she doesn't know why. Will they both survive the 12 days and will love return as they learn to forgive and trust one another once again. A touch of romance, a hint of mystery, and a cast of quirky characters make this an enjoyable read.

A Tale of Two Hearts

This is book 2 in the Once Upon a Dickens' Christmas series, but it reads well as a standalone. This book is delightfully enchanting as you stroll through Dickens' era with Mina Scott and William Barlow. A topsy turvy tale as William embroils Mina in his attempt to appear married for his Uncle Barlow as Barlow decides which of his two nephews would become his heir. Even though William had good intentions to protect his uncle from his cad cousin Percy, the truth from the beginning would have probably saved William as well as Mina from the problems they encountered with Uncle Barlow and Mina's father. 

The Dickens' quotes at the beginning of each chapter were perfectly connected to whatever took place in the chapter, and Dickens cameo appearance at the fancy restaurant where William took Mina was a cute touch. The play on the title of the story to Dickens A Tale of Two Cities was clever as well. This was definitely an enjoyable Victorian read in which Michelle Griep kept me entertained from start to finish. 


The Old Lace Shop
This was my favorite novella of the series. After becoming a widow whose husband was very abusive, Arabella with no heirs, Arabella inherits her husband's many properties. She sells everything except his lace factory and moves to Nottingham. Little does she know that her only love, Edmund Archer, is managing the lace factory, and she is now a co-owner with him.

Bella is a very caring person and it shows in the way she reaches out to the elderly lace workers who have lost their sight and are reduced to begging. She also reaches out to Edmund's daughter, Flora, as she is crippled and Edmund has been very protective of her. Both Bella and Edmund grow in their faith and their determination as they work together to make the lace factory a growing and profitable concern even with spies and arsonists who are trying to put them out of business. With a HEA ending, and a twist of Dickens at the end, I want to see what happens next after the sweet epilogue.

Griep creates fantastic characters that you can't help but love and root for, even when they're in slightly odd situations. And don't even get me started on the spiritual takeaways. All of the stories are, of course, about second chances (hence the second-chance coin), but there are also other lessons. And these rich, fantastic storylines set in a distant period of history intersect so well with our current lives, that you can't help but take a lesson with you when you close the book. Overall, I highly recommend this book, especially if you need a stocking stuffer or two. These wonderful Christmas stories are filled with substance and food for thought as well as a nice reminder that the first Christmas was about the world's second chance.

A delightful collection of Victorian era novellas set at Christmas! Some of the best I have had the privilege to read.

All three animated tales are full of eccentric, charming and some dastardly characters, worthy of Dickens himself, who makes a cameo appearance in each one. Centered around the theme of 'second chances', with a bit of a connection between them, each of these unique tales gives a refreshing look at the gift of grace, forgiveness and redemption.

"Either your faith will move mountains, or your doubt will create them.”

The first two tales were a joy to read again, so packed full of story that it's easy to get lost in them and hard to believe that they are only novellas. The writing is excellent, including the newest addition--a second chance romance set against the industrial background of the lace market in Nottingham. A tough topic of abuse is carefully touched on as a young widow begins again, hoping for a better life. A kind heroine who reaches out to the unloved and unwanted, she was easy to root for. A few descriptions of factory life reminded me a bit of Gaskell's North and South. The peril and competitive business climate added tension to this one. Faith and hope are included to add a positive side to the story. This one could easily be stretched to make a full length novel.

Highly recommend to readers who enjoy historical Christian romances with a classic feel. A good collection to read and reread at Christmas time.

12 Days a Bleakly Manor: A most unlikely group of people are all invited to Bleakly Manor for Christmas - but the owner doesn't appear and things don't seem to make sense. Then there are the accidents that keep occurring... What is going on, and why? And can some good come of it all?

A Tale of Two Hearts: William and his cousin Percy are contending for a legacy from their elderly uncle - and unmarried William believes that Percy has an edge in the contest because he is married, and his uncle prefers that. So a pretend bride might help, and the barmaid is just the woman to do it. But the stakes are raised when it appears that Percy has nefarious plans for what to do if he is named heir, so that William must win at all costs - but will the cost be too high?

The Old Lace Shop: Widowed Bella has been left her husband's substantial holdings in various companies, and decides to keep her majority ownership in a lace-making company to give her some independence. Unfortunately, her partner turns out to be the man whose rejection forced her to marry her late abusive husband. Can she carve out a place for herself in a world she doesn't understand, and become a valued part not only of the company but also of his heart?

Three stories in one book, the middle of which I had read before but enjoyed reading again (okay, I enjoyed reading the other two for the first time too!). The writing is good, the plots unexpected, the characters interesting and the content clean. The theme of second chances runs through all of them, and it was a good reminder that we do need to be willing to give others second chances when things go wrong. Written in somewhat of a Dickensish style (though much shorter!) and with references to the author and his writings, but with their own plots that are not merely trying to retell another author's tale, I thoroughly enjoyed them all, and would happily recommend them.

Note that I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my opinion.

Three delightful tales that take place during Christmas in Victorian England! All three stories have a character being given a "second chance coin". And each of them have little appearance or mention of one the greatest storytellers, Charles Dickens.

The first story "12 Days at Bleakly Manor" is about a group of people from all walks of life gathering at a manor till the end of the Twelfth Night. Whomever is the last one remaining has their deepest wish come true. The reason why these people were gathered was quite a nice surprise; it brought a smile to my face lol.

The second story, "A Tale of Two Hearts", is about William trying to be named heir of his uncle's estate over his cousin Percival. William's unsavory is past is already against him but there is catch-he must be married. Then enters our heroine Mina who happens to be the innkeeper's daughter which William frequents. I really liked his uncle with whom Mina got along famously. At the beginning of each chapter there are quotes from books which I really liked.

The third story, "The Old Lace Shop" was my favorite! After recently becoming a widow of an abusive man Arabella White is selling all of his businesses besides one-an old lace shop in Nottingham. She decides to be a co-owner with her husband's partner, Edmund Archer, who happens to be her one and only love. Reaching there she sees poverty, hunger, and the competition side of business. Arabella tries to find an occupation for Helen, along with a few other women, who are left with no choice but to ask for alms after going blind due to straining their eyes in the lace factory. This story is the more darker and realistic of the three.

At the end of each story are historical notes about things or events during that time period pertaining to each story.

This was my first foray into Michelle Griep's writing which I very much liked. I'll be looking into her other books. Highly recommended especially during the Christmas season as these stories teach us about hope and forgiveness; and well they're also really enjoyable to read!

All my opinions are my own. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.

Three lovely stories, well written and heartwarming.
I appreciated the character development, the style of writing and the Christmas atmosphere.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

A note before I begin this review: Two of the stories in this collection, “Twelve Days at Bleakley Manor” and “ A Tale of Two Hearts” have been previously published. “The Old Lace Shop” is a new story published in this edition. I had read the first two stories, but I’m glad to have all three in one volume because they share common story elements.

These stories are all Victorian in their settings. (Think of “A Christmas Carol” for this time period.) There are small, but important, links that follow through each story: A “second chance” coin: a swift “glimpse’ of Charles Dickens; characters that make a cameo appearance in a story. “Bleakley Manor” is a Victorian mystery that sets the tone of second chances for the other two stories. “A Tale of Two Hearts” had characters that I loved. My favorite story was “The Old Lace Shop”. I loved the setting of this
story and several of the characters in this one touched my heart.

In all three stories, the themes of second chances, forgiveness, and hope are the guideposts for the reader, which make these perfect stories for the Christmas season.

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

Three Victorian themed Christmas stories. I thoroughly enjoyed these 3 stories of hope and second chances. I love the way Michelle Griep describes her characters and the places. You'd almost feel like you're there. From second chances at love to pretences to earn an inheritance and falling for old love turned business partners, these stories take you on an exciting journey with the message of hope and forgiveness. I love the appearance of the second chance coin in each story and the message it signifies.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this book.

I had read the first 2 stories previously so that’s important to note—these are not all new stories. I enjoyed this collection. Sweet romance with a bit of mystery and Dickens flare.

In the first story of this trio of tales, "12 Days at Bleakly Manor", an odd assortment of people are summoned to Bleakly Manor, and whoever stays through Twelfth Night will have his or her wish come true. This is an unusual story; it starts slowly and is quite wonderful by the end! The characters are great, from Miss Scurry and her mice to Mr. Tallgrass and his Cockney dialect. Clara Chapman and Ben Lane get a well-deserved second chance. For lack of a better word, the "puppetmaster's" identity and reasoning came as a surprise to me. 4.5 stars

"A Tale of Two Hearts" features innkeeper's daughter Mina Scott and law clerk William Barstow, who pretend to be a married couple so Will will be named the heir to his uncle's estate. This is not nearly as bad as it sounds, although problems quickly ensue. Another potential heir is Will's cousin Percy, who along with his wife Alice, plan to place Uncle Barstow in an asylum upon being named heir. While I have read stories with the pretend-marriage theme before, this is the most well-written. There are many Dickens quotes. Effie Gedge from the first novella plays a part, and the Lanes are mentioned. 5 stars

The third offering, "The Old Lace Shop" takes place in 1850s industrialized Nottingham, England. Arabella White, a new and GRATEFUL widow, decides to retain one of her deceased husband's businesses, a lace-making factory. As majority owner, she decides to be an active co-manager with the minority owner. She is shocked to discover the man is Edmund Archer, the only man she's ever loved. This is a more somber and gritty story, dealing realistically with poverty and hardships of people dealing with hunger, employment and sadly, violent business competition. Flora is a delight. Percival Barstow is a secondary character in this novella. 4 stars

All three stories are wonderful and have themes of hope and forgiveness. I love how the second chance coin plays an important role in each story. As always, Michelle Griep's prose is lovely, and her characters are well-drawn. Depiction of life in 1850s England is vivid.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this great collection.

Once Upon a Dickens Christmas is a good collection of Christmas stories. I enjoyed each selection and found them to be well written. I highly recommend this book. My thanks to the publisher for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.