Lovely young Rosa works in the town library with her father in the 1800's where she is trying to save enough money to travel to America one day to study to become a secretary in New York. This has been a lifelong dream for Rosa since her parents consider it foolishness while they try to find a suitable husband to marry their daughter.
An ambitious and single young woman is quite frowned upon in those times so Rosa hope to teach more people to read while she tries to accomplish her goals and therefore refuses to be married off.

Mysterious James has just arrived from Transylvania to take care of family business while trying unsuccessfully to find a cure for his mother's terminal illness where most of the townspeople believe she and James are vampires due to their being afflicted from sunlight and the legends about Transylvania that have always plagued the family.
The people in the village of North Yorkshire are mostly uneducated with the true ways if the world and fall back on their history of old legends and folklore so they are very unkind and unruly around James who has always been a loner so he knows how to handle himself in most situations until the day he meets the lovely Rosa!


This was a lovely, gothic mystery and romance dealing with Dracula legends and the fear of small towns overcome by their superstition. The story was so very well-written and suspenseful at times. I had no idea this was Christian mystery although I feel it is suitable for everyone. The characters were fun and amazing with their personalities relating to those difficult times in history. How difficult to be an independent woman with dreams while being chastised for wanting to be different than the usual cookie cutter mold that was expected of young ladies during that period. I'm definitely glad as a woman to have been born in this century where we can make our own choices of how we wish to live our lives. The author "Michelle Griep" did a superb job with her research of the folklore and history of that era. The book was atmospheric, mystical, entertaining as well as humorous in spots.


There was also an unexpected and seriously fun shout-out and introduction to Bram Stoker as well which I really enjoyed and appreciated. This book was truly an unexpected delight to read. I would gladly read another book written by this author. I must say that the book was more romantic than a scary vampire story which could be disappointing to some if they had other expectations but for myself this book was a wonderful, historical, romantic and suspenseful treat which I highly recommend to all readers!


I want to thank the publisher "Barbour Publishing" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this novel and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!

I have given this book a rating of 4 1/2 STUNNING AND SUPERSTITIOUS 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠 STARS!!

I’m not usually a fan of this type of book which reminds me of Beauty and the Beast, but I was drawn in by the writing of Michelle Griep. Rosa Edwards and Sir James Morgan are the two main characters. Rosa works with her father in the town library, but her desire is to become a secretary. Sir James is cast aside by villagers as he is thought to be a vampire. Actually, he’s suffering from a skin disease called Porphyria and is constantly looking for a cure as his mother suffers also.

Albin Mallow is constantly after Rosa to become his wife, pushed on by his father who has ulterior motives. Rosa wants nothing to do with him, but her mother is constantly pushing her that way. I enjoyed how the author brings James and Rosa together and couldn’t wait to see how things would turn out.

Thank you NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for the advance copy of the book. I was under no obligation to provide a review.

Michelle Griep takes the reader on another adventure into historical England, where superstition and gossip make a deadly mix. This mesmerizing tale pulls the reader into a different world that thrives on "monster" tales and mob mentality to fix what they see as wrong. This Gothic story resurrects the Dracula tale, bringing a dark and mysterious hero into a young librarian's boring life. She daily fights to get people to learn and reject the silly superstitions that lead her small community. When her handsome new hero becomes a patron of the library, a new world opens before her, giving her a romance she feared lost. These memorable characters are masterfully written to leap off the page and pull the reader into their lives. History comes alive under Michelle Griep's pen, vivid descriptions paint a detailed picture of each moment in this thrilling story. Nothing is spared as Michelle Griep takes her hero and heroine to the very depths and testing their hope for a positive outcome. I couldn't put this book down! The hope and redemption woven through the entire story was amazing, shows a true look at humanity. Michelle Griep is always a must read for me, with such amazing stories that stay with me well after the last page has been flipped. This is another must that you will not regret spending your time on. But be ready, you will not want to put this book down for anything! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I was very intrigued by the book description. I was grateful for the Netgalley approval! This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I will continue following and reading her books. I really enjoyed this book. I loved the Beauty and the Beast vibes but it’s so much more than that. Rosa was wonderful! As was James. Everything about this book (settings, characters, plot) was so well done.

Set in Victorian England of 1890, Man of Shadow and Mist beautifully ties the gothic with romance and faith. What a fascinating historical romance! The swirling mystery and intrigue regarding a vampire kept the underlying tension taut as we discovered the character of Sir James, one page at a time. The rare but devasting medical condition called porphyria was interesting to read about. I loved the cameo appearance of Bram Stoker and the beginning of how his manuscript of Dracula may have come about, as well as some secondary characters in this book named after those in his book.

Sir James was a perfect Victorian hero - brooding, abrupt, and mysterious, yet loyal, noble, honorable, kind, and thoughtful. Rosa was a great heroine - a lover of books, spunky, and progressive in her thoughts. Their faith and surrender to God's will were profound. Albin Mallow was an interesting character that gave us a light-hearted break from the heaviness and sorrow in James' life (but he also made a choice that showed his growth and maturity in the end).

If you enjoy historical romance with a touch of gothic, you will absolutely love this book. I received the book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

Animals are being slaughtered in the countryside and people warn Rosa about riding her bike Heather and fro to deliver books because of the monster that’s killing them. James is back in England and when he gets invited to dinner at roses family home she is way past being over her mom‘s matchmaking attempts and despite the fact she’s almost middle-age for that time. She wants to go to school to learn how to be a secretary. She is also on a mission to thwart the beliefs of the town people in their superstitions and believes educating them through books is the way to go. As far as her not wanting to marry she truly believe that until James came along he is unlike any man she’s ever met and I first she blows a moth eventually for Rosa that will not be an option. Before reading this book I didn’t know this book series existed but now that I do I will be paying close attention and reading the first book. I love books with unconventional romances and I would say falling in love with a monster would be one of those. I found this book to be very interesting with a great plot and although I thought Rosa at 24 being a little older still want to go to school in 1890 that is a small thing compared to all the other greatness. I received this book from NetGalley and Barbara publishing but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

“She really ought to pedal onward and get back to the library, but there was such raw power in the way he moved that it mesmerized her like little else she had known. She watched his tall form until shadows and mist swallowed him whole, leaving her entirely unsettled.”

Absolutely loved this second book in the Of Monsters and Men series! I have to admit Dracula is one of my favorite “horror” stories and Michelle Griep brilliantly took the idea of a vampire and turned it on its head. She created a character so sympathetic and tortured that he instantly drew my compassion. It’s the story of a troubled man trying to find a cure for the life threatening illness he faces which also plagues his mother, all the while resisting love and warding off villagers bent on his destruction.

Sir James Morgan traveled to Whitby, England from his castle in Transylvania to care for his mother who suffers from porphyria. After rescuing a beautiful woman after a bicycle accident, he’s pleasantly surprised to find she works in her father’s library where he’s hoping to find medical texts. As he desperately searches for a cure, he can’t help but fall in love with Rosa. Knowing the outcome of the disease, he resists anything more than friendship and keeps himself shuttered away from others. The strange symptoms of the disease, the cattle found mutilated, and the superstitious nature of the townsfolk foster the idea that Sir James is indeed a dreaded vampire.

Rosa Edwards is a forward thinking librarian studying to be a secretary. She wants nothing more than to share books and knowledge with her small English village to help combat superstitions. Though many can’t afford the subscription, she finds ways to provide books. When she meets James, he has a profound effect on her. As she tries to discourage a persistent suitor, she wants nothing more than to get to know the mysterious stranger better. James is elusive, yet always seems to be there when she needs him. If she can only get him to trust her, and take a chance on love.

I loved everything about this story! The atmosphere was fantastic with an eerie manor, freakish thunderstorms, and fog shrouded streets. The romance between Rosa and James was electric with a passionate undercurrent throughout. Their first kiss was amazing! I loved how he tried to scare her off at times by playing the vampire role. I so sympathized with James. He wanted nothing more than what he felt was best for Rosa, yet he yearned for love and acceptance. I loved the kind rector who helped convince James he needed the companionship of others.

All the nods to Dracula were fabulous. I enjoyed the way the author weaved Bram Stoker into the story and the little Easter eggs pointing to the classic novel. I loved that James’ butler was named Renfield and chuckled every time I saw his name. It was fascinating learning more about porphyria and how the symptoms matched so well with the concept of a vampire.

It’s a fast paced, perfectly gothic romance, with a touch of inspiration and suspense. Highly recommend to gothic and historical romance fans as well as those who enjoy the classics. I can’t wait to see which “monster” she’ll tackle next, although I have a theory. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.

Where do I begin! Michelle does it again! She wrote a beautiful love story with a gothic twist. I was a bit hesitant to read it since I'm not really into gothic themed books. But once I started reading it I could not put it down. I loved the relationship between the main characters. The book is about Sir James the mysterious town "vampire" and Rosa Edwards the librarian's daughter. The way Michelle played out this story just left me in awe! I will definitely be rereading this book in the future!

I received an e-book copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
Thank you Barbour Publishing, Inc. and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this amazing book!

This is a cute story with likable characters and interesting historical details but there were times I struggled to reconcile the characters thoughts or feelings. In one chapter, one of the main characters debates what to do to the point that I thought, get on with it already! They make a decision, it goes as expected, they're surprised when everyone reacts the way they thought they might. There were other parts where I just didn't feel the reactions or feelings matched what a real person in that same situation would experience or feel. Those times generally felt like things were written that way to advance the storyline.

Top 3 reasons I loved this book:
1. It's by Michelle Griep
2. It's an "Of Monsters and Men" book
3. It's by Michelle Griep

The story-line grabbed me from the very start, and didn't let up until I stayed up WAY too late one night just so that I could finish. The characters are so well written that I feel like I'm losing some new friends by the end of the story. I also LOVE how the authors of the books that these are drawn from show up in cameos throughout the story. Now, breathlessly anticipating a hopefully 3rd book to this series. 😉

Thank you to NetGalley, Michelle, and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a great story! I really enjoyed the setting and the characters, even the gloomy, gothic vibe. James was dreamy, even when he was in one of his moods. I really liked the way faith was intertwined in the story. It felt natural. Overall, a great read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

5/5 stars.

This book was _excellent_!

I read (listened to, actually) _Dracula_ last year for the first time, and truly wondered where it had been all my life. (The audiobook full-cast production, btw--with the swoonworthy Simon Vance as Jonathan Harker--is fantastic.) Of course, never having been a vampire fan before (or since) that listen--that might have had something to do with it.

Count this book as #2 in my "vampire-esque novels to read" list. :) It's written, as are a majority of my reads, from a very bluntly Christian perspective--just how I like it--and is packed with theology, much like _Dracula_ itself. And I loved the incorporation of Bram Stoker as an actual character in the read, along with historical events; be sure to read the author's note about the true events incorporated into the story. Some familiar names, as well, I recognized from the _Dracula_ novel--fun Easter eggs other readers of the classic will enjoy too.

I liked this book better than the first, just as I enjoyed reading _Dracula_ over _Frankenstein_ (the subject of Book 1, Lost in Darkness)--but Book 1 is certainly quite good, and recommended as well. Both are particularly good fall/spooky/Halloween-time reads, for sure!

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

The world seems full of good men—even if there are monsters in it ~quote from Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”

I devoured Michelle’s book “Lost in Darkness” and knew I had to get my hands on this one! I’ve read many, if not most, of her books and this was a very different feel from her usual writing. Rest assured, that is said in a very complimentary way! Atmospheric in its depth, a bit shivery at times and definitely immerses the reader as manifested in the late nights I stayed up to read “just one more chapter”. You cannot go wrong with anything this author writes!

Is James Morgan indeed a vampire or is the town just bent on believing in superstition? And what of Rosa Edwards, can she prove there is no such thing before the town goes mad trying to rid itself of such evil? All these questions (and more) are masterfully answered as the reader delves into this satisfying Gothic tale. The nod to Bram Stoker’s novel “Dracula” with quotes before each chapter was clever in its design. Michelle’s ability to weave historical facts with fiction is beyond brilliant and it shows in this story as well as in “Lost in Darkness”. I loved every minute of it!

* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. *

A beautifully written Christian Fiction take on the Dracula legend replete with a mysterious nobleman who cannot suffer the sun, an innocent if headstrong young librarian who falls under his sway, a steadfast if aged servant, and a town fueled by superstition and a ready flame. Add a creepy mansion, stormy weather, and a woman dying of madness, and the gothic tone is firmly set. The story progresses with enough suspense to keep any reader happy while coming together at the end in a way that lets the characters share in the joy. I particularly liked the way the author wove Bram Stoker and his novel into the plot and her attention to the local history of Whitby. Well done, Michelle Griep!

Highly recommended for Christian Fiction readers and for general readers who are open to Christian perspective and content.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this book. It's my favorite of Griep's books. It was fun seeing Bram Stoker write a book even as rumors swirled around James Morgan potentially being a vampire. I loved Rosa's heart. She longed for the poor to be educated and to be able to move past superstitious fears. She was a faithful friend to James when he had none. I loved seeing how her compassion and caring affected James who had never known kindness or affection.

The book hooked my interest right from the start and never let up. It was a great, fascinating read and I'd highly recommend it. Thank you to Barbour Fiction for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I honestly don’t even know where to begin with this review. I have heard wonderful things about Michelle Griep’s books, but had never read one before. I was expecting it to be a good story, but I was blown away with this book. It is beyond good. It is an amazing, captivating, romantic, mysterious gothic-style story that you won’t want to put down.

I don’t know how she did it, but Michelle made me feel like I was in England. I could see and feel the fog and the smell of the water.

Rosa is a librarian who does not hold to superstitious beliefs, like many of the people in town. In fact, she wants to help them be more educated and not hold onto these wayward thoughts.

James, a very mysterious man, returns to his estate in England to take care of important matters, but his timing could not be worse. When bad things start happening, the superstitious townsfolk are quick to blame this peculiar man.

Rosa tries to befriend James and he tries to keep her at arms length.

I love how Rosa doesn’t just agree with what everyone else says. She truly wants to get to know James and form her own opinions of him.


Things I loved:
Dual POV
Gothic feel
Amazing chemistry
Rosa’s desire to help
Nod to Bram Stoker
Historical romance
The first kiss (swoon)

This is such a beautiful story of friendship, understanding, and acceptance. Both characters could have turned out differently. Rosa could have let others impact her thoughts of James without ever bothering to get to know him. James could have let his childhood turn him into an unkind and cruel person, yet he chooses time and time again to put others first.

I will definitely be reading more of Michelle Grieps
books!

Thank you @netgalley for a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Oh my! I love myself a good Victorian era gothic story and Michelle Griep delivered! This series, Of Monsters and Men, have featured two of my favorite classic novels and I've loved watching how the author weaves history of Bram Stoker and Mary Shelley into these stories. It's deliciously captivating!

From the beginning the tone is set to create the gothic feel and what the title denotes...Shadow and Mist. There is a lot of unknown from the villagers and townspeople and the way they feed off of the atmosphere of the weather, the mysterious deaths of animals and their fear keeps them a little ignorant and suspecting. And unfortunately, Sir James Morgan has a family history that doesn't shed too kindly a light on him or his past, or his future.

The first meeting of James and Rosa was wonderful! The mystery surrounding this large man in the swirling mist and shadows only brings Rosa a greater desire to come to know him and his kindness.

I loved the beauty and the beast vibes going on throughout the story! And I really liked how Rosa worked hard to help those around her become more educated and aware and less ignorant and casting judgement on things they don't know and understand. Rosa is definitely a fabulous heroine who wasn't going to let anyone else tell her what she should do in her story! I loved her spunk and goodness and desire to help everyone.

Great themes of hope and forgiveness and understanding and love!

Content: Clean. This is a christian fiction and the characters do think about God and how they can draw closer to Him as well as being like Him in serving and caring for others. This book deals with some sickness/disease and death. It was very well written and one I would share with my teenagers.

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

Happy Reading!!!

WOW!! What a great read! This book hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go! It's a love story full of twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Man of Shadow and Mist is the perfect title for this moody gothic romance. It isn’t my typical kind of read, shrouded in superstition, fear of a thought-to-be vampire, and misty twilight atmosphere, but perhaps that’s what makes it so alluring!

I’ve read several books by this author, and I’m always captured by her writing style. These characters become so familiar and their story plays like a movie in my head—vivid visuals that stay with me long after I close the book.

Wonderful historical suspense, sweet romance, and fabulous atmosphere, this is a keeper on my shelf. A fabulous opening line and a bookish heroine makes it even more unforgettable.

First Line: Books are joy.
Series: Of Monsters and Men book 2
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Author: Michelle Griep
Page Count: 320

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

When Sir James Morgan returns from Transylvania to England, his reclusive ways and strange behaviors give rise to rumors in the village. The man must be a vampire, and the mysterious deaths of sheep and cattle with their throats slit only confirms the matter. Rosa Edwards, daughter of the village librarian, is the only one open-minded enough to reject such superstitions. She appreciates the aloof but courteous Sir James and discovers that he is a kind and misunderstood soul. She makes an arrangement with him to deliver books daily to his secluded manor house. But what exactly are the mysterious screams coming from Sir James’ house? And why can he not bear to be outside in the sunlight?

Inspired by events in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, this story explores the beauty of believing in someone against the slings and arrows of public opinion. Rosa is a determined young woman, hoping to forge a life for herself as a secretary. She dreams of providing books and education for the poor and underprivileged and of purchasing a typewriter so she can pursue her secretarial dreams. Sir James is a devoted and driven individual, seeking to find a cure for that which threatens himself and those dear to him. Torn between his duties as a son and his duties to his estate back in Transylvania, he must also battle his attraction to the feisty librarian who refuses to let his reputation and life go up in flames.

The premise of this book was interesting, and I enjoyed the Bram Stoker cameo and the tie-ins with Dracula. The Christian elements of the story were woven in well to the characters’ lives. Some of the characters were a little too over the top to be fully believable, but all in all, it was a fun homage and an intriguing Victorian adventure.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.