The House at the End of the Moor was an interesting historical read.

I love Jane Eyre and when I heard that this book had a comparison to that I knew I wanted to read it. Michelle Griep did a great job describing the scenes she set, from the prison to London, the vivid descriptions helped me feel like I was there. I think my favorite scene described was the moor, I have never seen one in person, but Michelle Griep brought the look, feel, and smell of it to life for me.

I enjoyed the characters, I thought they had good personalities. I did not particularly care for how some of the characters switched from first-person to second-person point of view throughout the book. However, it did not distract from the storyline too much. The mystery was easy to follow, and I enjoyed the connections made through the characters.

I give this book 4 out of 5 stars for the creative storyline, the interesting characters, and the great scene descriptions.

*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.

The House at the End of the Moor by author Michelle Griep is a Christian Historical Fiction that is so interesting from the very beginning. It is a Regency England story with mystery, intrigue and romance. I loved its message of faith.

This is the story of Maggie Lee. She is an opera singer that has run away from her glamorous life because of threats. Her life now is in the moors unbeknownst to others.
It is also the tale of Oliver Ward. He is a wrongly accused incarcerated man. Their lives collide, and it appears they have something in common.

Author Grief is a fabulous storyteller. This is a page turning, sometimes gritty tale that keeps readers guessing. The characters are well described and memorable, even the secondary ones. Villains are plentiful and so easy to detest. The dialog is period appropriate and character revealing.

Through her vivid descriptive words the author took me back in time to a Moor. I was able to learn some things, which is always a bonus when reading. The jail scenes were a bit horrific to imagine. There is also some violence.

The life lessons and messages of faith are what make this book beautiful. I love reading a story that has a character growing in faith. Lessons of redemption, hope, justice, faith, and love shine brightly throughout this novel.

Expect surprises, twists, turns, intrigue, romance, and a trip to the English Moors in the wonderful story. I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys historical fiction, especially Regency. It might be too much for younger teens so I would limit it to older ones. I rated it 4 out of 5 stars. A copy from Celebrate Lit was provided, but these are my honest words.

#netgalley #thehouseattheendofthemoor
I love Michelle Griep's books, they never disappoint me. This one had a les miserables feel to it and I am a huge fan!! I loved the scenery, the plot twists, the adventures, the suspense. I was loving each page and can't wait to read it again. Definitely a 5 star book for me!

Michelle Griep’s latest book takes us to the harsh, yet beautiful moors of Devon, England. Oliver Ward is wrongly imprisoned and trying to survive the horrific conditions. He must escape to survive and even more importantly to seek justice and clear his name.
Maggie Lee lives a reclusive life in a cottage at the edge of the moors. Her only companions are her maid and hired man, and that’s the way she wants it. When she and Oliver cross paths, she must chose between helping him or risking losing her anonymity which could cost her everything.
Follow Maggie and Oliver as they both seek to undo the wrongs of the past while only staying a step ahead of the sinister men pursuing them. Can their newfound trust develop into something more?
I have yet to be disappointed by a Michelle Griep novel! Her writing is superb, musing mystery, wit, and romance is a lovely historical setting. This book is another winner!

This intriguing story begins in 1861 at Dartmoor Prison, located in Devon, England. Oliver Ward has been there for 9 months. He is angry because he is innocent and he is unhappy with his father for not attending the hearing.

The reader gets a glimpse early on of his true character by some things that happen almost immediately in the story. Likewise, the actions of one man who oversees the inmates also clue us in to his character and demeanor.

Oliver’s journey after escaping the prison, quite by accident, leads him to Mrs. Dosett’s home. She is a fine woman who is wearing widow’s weeds. And though it seems unlikely, the two people discover that they have like interests and a like goal.

Though Mrs. Dosett has lived quietly for the last few months, she and Oliver immediately begin making plans to rectify some wrongs. Plans that are bold and anything but quiet and safe.

My Thoughts

To be honest, the very beginning of the book caught me off guard. I wondered what type of book I was reading? It wasn't what I expected. But in no time it captured my interest and I realized it was truly the type of book I was looking for, and am accustomed to reading. So, if you too are taken a bit aback, just hold on to your hat, the journey is about to begin.

Though it opens with a prison scene, hold tight and know that it’s important to the story. Especially, the relationship between the prison guard and Oliver. I’m purposefully not relating much of the story, perhaps because I’m one who rarely reads bout a book before starting it. I want the story to surprise me along the way. So, I’m just going to tell you that if you like historical fiction, mystery, and a touch of romance, you’re sure to like this.

The characters felt believable and their actions became understandable, or at least more so, as we grew to know each one. Of course, the Christian element intertwines but never distracts. It, too, felt believable and appropriate for each character.

My Concerns
My first inclination is to say that I had no concerns, but if I think a little deeper, I guess I would have liked to have heard a bit more about Dartmoor and what historically was happening during the 1860s. However, there is information at the back of the book regarding the prison.

What I Liked Most
I liked that the story moved along. It didn’t feel bogged down anywhere with too much description, and even when I thought it was obvious where it might be headed, Griep threw in a twist. And most importantly, a believable twist.

This is my first book by Michelle Griep, but I can assure you that it won’t be my last.

“It is a precipice upon which I stand, toes over the edge. Either I step back now or commit to falling headlong into what might be danger, for me and for Papa. But truly, there is only one choice to be made. I lift my chin to meet Mr. Ward’s gaze. “What is our plan?”’

With a delightfully brave heroine and an endearingly charismatic hero fighting for what is right no matter the cost, and strengthening their faith and bond along the way, Michelle Griep’s newest tale of suspense, courage, and faith is not to be missed.

I will admit it took a little while for the story to grab me, since I was unprepared for the abrupt change to present tense and first person for Maggie’s narration. However, I was soon captivated by the story and I absolutely could not put it down. Every aspect of the story, from the setting to the characters to the dialogue, is rich with historical detail, but it never reads like a textbook. Griep is able to seamlessly weave intricate detail with story in a way that entrances the reader.

Oliver is one of my new favorite book heroes of all time. His devotion, thoughtfulness, and spiritual journey is humbling and astoundingly inspirational. I realized a few pages in that he shares the same name, first and last, as my kindergarten boyfriend, which definitely made me laugh a few times, but Griep’s hero is so captivating he pushed out all other thought. Her characters are truly magical in that way.

Another beautiful aspect of this story for me was the redemption of the antagonist. I truly treasure this, as it is rare to see true redemption for a villain. Griep’s portrayal of his struggles and misguided beliefs about true justice was so profoundly moving, the reader cannot help but feel a strong sense of hope and contentment.

“The House at the End of the Moor” is a story you absolutely cannot miss. Griep’s writing will intrigue you and have you on the edge of your seat. It is a vital addition to any reader’s bookshelf.

4.5/5 stars

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

I had a hard time getting into this story. It didn't capture my attention like i hoped. It had a definite gothic romance feel to the story. I liked how I could visual the scenes clearly. I really liked the character development in this story. I felt like I really got to know Maggie and Oliver as the story went along. Their relationship was fun to watch. I definitely liked some characters more then then others. There were a couple people I definitely did not like at all.

Even though it wasn't my favorite, I recommend you give this book a chance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

This book takes us on an exhilarating trip across the English moor, with some serious Jane Eyre kind of vibes going on.

As a fan of the Opera, this book really caught my attention. Although the opera part was down played – it was there but not. Mystery, Romance, a broody atmosphere, throw in some really creepy bad guys, and a message of mercy and redemption – this gothic tale has a bit of everything going on.

I had a hard time putting this book down. The rich historical details and intriguing story line kept me wanting to see what was coming next.

I love Michelle Griep and have read most of her books, so I was really excited for this one. Honestly, it really surprised me. I had a different feel than her other books -- it was almost more sophisticated. Not that that made me love it more or less than her other books...it was just different. However, like her other books, Griep weaved a beautiful story that gently yet powerfully demonstrated the power of God, love, and forgiveness. This was a beautiful book, and it had me hooked from the first couple sentences.

I an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. My thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for this opportunity.

I think The House at the End of the Moor by Michelle Griep is my favorite by this author so far and I have read most of her books. This one had some great suspense that drew me in and kept me reading. I just couldn’t put the book down. Her need to stay unseen was a wonderful theme in this one. I enjoyed seeing the story ties come to light and it is full of romance. I recommend this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.


***Also posted on Amazon, CBD, B&N

This novel was full of suspenseful moments, with one main character hiding in order to stay away from notice and the other willing to risk escaping prison to clear his name. There was plenty of intrigue and danger as Oliver and Maggie made a harrowing attempt to stay one step ahead of those who were after them, while also laying a trap that would hopefully offer the freedom that both of them desired.

The villains were particularly cruel, with warped ideas of justice. The main characters were both likable, yet had their faults, making them relatable. Oliver struggled with forgiveness toward his father, which impacted how he viewed things around him, too. I enjoyed the way the romance built between the two characters. This novel is a good choice for historical fiction fans who enjoy suspenseful drama.

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

First I want to issue a warning – Michelle Griep did it again! This book is almost impossible to put down, especially at the beginning when the two main character’s meet.This book is not part of a series, but oh I wish that it was! This was one of those books that I really didn’t want to finish, because I didn’t want the story to end. This story is the perfect blend of history, romance, humor and a touch of suspense. One of my favorite things about the book was the characters.My heart broke when I read about how Maggie had to run away from everything that was familiar to her because someone was trying to manipulate her by threatnening her family. I also was amazed when I found out that the same event that ruined Maggie’s life also ruined Oliver’s. Seriously, it was no wonder that Oliver was upset and suspicious when he found out that she was connected to the very reason he was thrown in jail. Finally, I just have to say that I LOVE the ending. I won’t say much because I don’t want to ruin the story for you, but I will tell you, that God works all things out for good to those who love Him {Romans 8:28). Overall, this is definitely a Must Read and I would rate this book five out of five stars! *****

>>Special thanks to Michelle Griep, The CelebrateLit Publicity Team and NetGalley for letting me read and review this book – all opinions are my own.

"True justice starts with repentance. How can we ask God to show justice in the world while willfully nursing our own hidden prejudices, selfishness, lusts, greed...our own broken relationships?"

Another home-run for Michelle Griep! Set in Victorian England of 1861, this story follows two unlikely pair - an opera singer hiding away and a runaway convict - in a tale of justice sought, forgiveness received, redemption embraced, and renewal begun. Wrapped in intense intrigue and mystery, the story combines the best of suspense and historical romance to bring a tantalizing read that you won't be able to put down.

Maggie, the opera singer, has a present-tense first person voice in the story which pairs extremely well with past-tense third person voice of Oliver, the runaway convict. Their unique perspectives emphasize the shroud of intrigue as they join forces to bring to light the lies that wrongly put Oliver in jail and forced Maggie to flee into anonymity. The plot has plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing as to what will happen next. Oliver is such a swoony hero - a champion of the poor and downtrodden, loyal, clever, and intelligent with a sense of humor. Maggie is sweet, gifted, and brave even when grief threatens to overwhelm her. Redemption and forgiveness that can be ours for the asking are portrayed clearly in the characters' journey through the book.

If you are a fan of historical romance, you will love this book. It reminded me a little of Les Miserables, especially with a constable doggedly hunting Oliver down after his escape from prison. I received a copy of the book from Barbour Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

I’m a fan of Michelle Griep’s books and House at the End of the Moor did not disappoint. I like to think of her books as historical adventure romance. Like The Princess Bride, but realistic. I loved how she twisted and bound the two main characters lives together in unexpected ways. Each chapter revealed something new. There are several villains in the book, and I intrigued me how each of them met with a different end. The ending was unusual, but perfect. I don’t want to give anything away, so I won’t mention what happened, but I cried. There is some violence, but most of it happens off page. The description of the prison where it all begins will probably make your skin crawl. I know it did for me. It’s difficult to believe that people were subjected to such vileness, but it’s based on historical fact. The chapters switch between first person point of view for the main character, Maggie, and third person for everyone else. I’m not a huge fan of first person. It took me a little bit to get into the rhythm of Maggie’s chapters. I loved how the accents of each person came through in the writing. I could “hear” each character in my head. The villains are extra villainy, the ugliness in their hearts comes out in their words and actions. One of them even believes he is doing God’s work.
I recommend this book for those who love historical adventures, tales from regency England, and villains who get their comeuppance. Some of the elements may be too much for those readers under the age of 16.

While the book starts and ends with “Jane Eyre” references, it reminded me more of “Les Miserable.” Oliver has similarities to Jean Valjean, and Barrow, his jailer, to Javert. The setting of the house out on the moor gave things a haunted, lonely feel, which reminded me of “Wuthering Heights.” These reminders of other books I love added to my enjoyment of this book. I was gripped by the mystery and the pursuit of justice, as well as the attempts to set things right.

As with her other books, Griep has an amazing way with words. “Words stagger around on my tongue like little drunkards” (location 862). What perfect imagery. “The written word taught me that I was not alone, that hardship comes to all, and connected me to the heroes and heroines who conquered those hardships, ultimately giving me courage” (location 2923). Oh, the power of books…I agree with Maggie’s view.

I really liked both Maggie and Oliver, as well as his dad. It would be fun to encounter them in another book. Oliver’s desire to better conditions for the poor and the way Maggie helps the hurting are beautiful qualities.

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

#TheHouseAtTheEndOfTheMoor #Netgalley

Missing jewels, an escaped convict, and an opera singer in hiding. Who wouldn't want to read that?

This played so much like a movie in my head through the vivid imagery and great story telling. I've never read a book with first person and third person POV's. I quite like it to my surprise.

Maggie and Oliver's stories collide and their individual character growth is perfectly written. There's a definite nod to the Gothic style of Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre.

Thank you, Barbour Publishing and @netgalley for the advanced copy! All thoughts in this review are my own.

#amreading #idratherbereading #shereads #bookreview #netgalley #barbourpublishing #thehouseattheendofthemoor #michellegriep #christianfiction #cleanromance #victorisnromance #bookish #bookstagram

3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sorry.....I came late to the party and I do apologize. I’ve read so many great books over the last 5 weeks and I keep getting more and more! This is like my 5th book, maybe 4th? By Michelle Griep.
The story was fluid, real and richly detailed. I thought the main characters were very likable and the both had a strong faith in God. There was adventure, romance and a HEA that always makes me happy.
Some parts dragged for me but overall I thought it good for “Christian fiction” and would recommend it to my friends.

This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own. Thanks for reading my honest review.

The House at the End of the Moor by Michelle Griep has Mrs. Margaret Dosett (aka Maggie Lee) finding escaped convict, Oliver Ward out on the moors near Morden Hall in March of 1861. When Oliver is hiding from the determined Constable Barrow in a small closet, he discovers the jewels that he was convicted of stealing. The pair come up with a plan to return the ruby necklace and get justice for them both. The House at the End of the Moor is a compelling historical novel that is well-written and moves along at a gentle pace. I enjoyed Michelle Griep’s detailed writing that captured the era. The author brought the moors alive with her vivid word imagery. I could just imagine Maggie out walking on the moors with her dog, Malcolm at her side. Maggie Lee and Oliver Ward are developed and realistic characters with a deep faith. I like how they work together to get justice and redemption. I thought it was unique that Michelle Griep made Maggie Lee an opera singer. I enjoyed the references to some beautiful operas. The treachery that had taken place was terrible and there were some truly evil individuals in this story. The violence did have me cringing, but it was realistic. Prisoners were treated terribly unless they had money to grease palms. Forgiveness, second chances and redemption were some of the Christian themes in the story. I enjoyed the Jayne Eyre references especially the one at the end. I was especially pleased with how one character made a complete life change. I like how The House at the End of the Moor combined mystery, intrigue, romance, suspense, history and faith into one fascinating novel. The House at the End of the Moor is an appealing novel that reminds you that no matter how dark the situation, He is always with you.

This book had a fantastic first chapter - one of the best hooks I have read in a while! And I normally love Michelle Griep's writing, so I thought for sure after the way the book started that I would be in for a great read. However, over time, I just became more bored with the story. There wasn't anything particularly bad about the book, I just didn't find myself excited to read further. Oliver was a nice man, but I'm not sure I saw "hero" material in him. Now Margaret was definitely intriguing, a heroine that I really wanted to read more about, but Oliver almost dragged her character down in his...blandness. I wanted to see more of a personality from him, and I just did not. The mute servant was more interesting to me. If she gets a book next, I'm all in!

A woman hiding on the moors, imprisoned by fear. A man in jail, doubly imprisoned by a false accusation of theft and a burning desire to revenge himself on his accuser. A jailer, driven to brutality towards all those under him by an imprisoning fear of having to make things right with God.

Oliver is grateful when, following his escape from jail and resulting injury, Maggie takes him into her home, doctors him and hides him from the jailer who is hunting for him. But the discovery that she has hiding in a closet the very necklace he was jailed for having stolen sets in motion a plan to simultaneously vindicate him from the charge of theft and take vengeance on the man who has injured them both. Their plan does not go as smoothly as they had hoped, though, when both his jailer and her former manager pick up their trail...

I read this a nearly month ago but have taken a while to review because I have struggled to work out how to express it. The fact that it still stands out in my memory after that long, despite having read many books in the meantime, stands as a testimony to how memorable this book is. I've read and enjoyed other books by the author, but this is perhaps my favourite to date - strangely enough, at least partly because of the jailer's part of the story, which I would never have guessed at the start. Though there is some brutality and violence, it's not excessive and does generally feel necessary/appropriate to the era, and does not override the story itself. It's not a light read but it is clean - and I love the ending. All in all, this is a highly memorable tale of redemption that I would very much recommend.

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