Of Silver and Secrets is a mix of historical mystery, romance, and Christian fiction genres.

🎩 The story was set in Victorian England, in a small town outside of Cambridge.
❤️ The romance is two childhood friends reunited. She holds anger towards him, though, so it's a bit of an enemies to lovers to start.
🔍There were several small mysteries in this story, with the most urgent one leading to some very tense moments.

The story for me was a little slow to start, but once I got about a third of the way in, it became truly captivating, and I didn't want to put it down.

Of Silver and Secrets is part of an interconnected series. You certainly don't need to read the first one to enjoy this one. But, I absolutely adored the connection between the two stories.

I have always been interested in archeology. Perhaps it was my love of Indiana Jones as a kid, so I enjoyed this aspect of the story. A dig on land in England that once held an ancient Roman civilization. I also enjoy a strong female lead in a story, especially during a time when women are seen as delicate and to be a proper lady were supposed to only be interested in past times deemed appropriate for ladies, needle work, music etc.

Overall, this was a beautifully written story, full of faith, love, and with some mystery and intrigue.

I loved this book! I had very high expectations because of how much I adored the first book in the series. I'm happy to say that this book exceeded all my expectations.

After her father’s death, Eva is struggling and overwhelmed as she tries to take care of the family’s estate and her younger sister. The financial situation is looking dire, and she’s getting anxious for a solution.

With his uncle’s job on the line, Bram is on a mission to help him find proof of a lost refuge for Christians who were persecuted by the Roman Empire. Could Eva’s land hold the key?

This book is full of so many wonderful and likeable characters. Eva had a lot on her plate, but I loved her determination and strength. I also loved the bond that she had with her sister Penny. Penny was so resilient and such a bright light.

It was easy to fall for Bram. He was quite the charmer but had a good heart. I loved his uncle and how he looked out for him.

Archaeology has always fascinated me, so I really enjoyed that aspect of this book. I also really enjoyed the Victorian setting. That’s one of my favorite time periods.

I was fully engaged with the story from beginning to end. I loved it! I highly recommend it to fans of sweet and intriguing historical romances.

I received a copy of this via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

Snuggle up tight and settle in because you won’t want to put this one down. Living on the edge of poverty Eva is desperate enough for money to dig up the haunted acres and put in an extra crop of wheat. What is unearthed could change everything. A silver relic could be the means of turning her fortunes around but when she goes for an evaluation of the artifact she finds more than she bargained for. The professor who’s to do the valuation is Bram, her schoolgirl crush and the one who abandoned her.

I love the personal interactions in this book with the enthusiastic students, Eva’s blind sister who defies the stereotypes, and the push pull attraction between Eva and Bram. Every relationship, action, and emotion added to the excellence of the writing and made me want to get to know each character as they struggle with their own fears, and faith walk. The environment was so seamlessly written I felt as though I was present in the manor house, and the fields. The descriptions of the dress of the day, the transportation, and the archaeological dig itself transported me back in time.

If you love a little romance with mystery and suspense in a historical setting this is the book for you. Filled with faith nuggets throughout the text not only do you get adventure but inspiration as well. I highly recommend this book which was given to me courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion of the book.

When the weight of the past presses in, can grace still rise?

Of Silver and Secrets pulled me into a world where ancient silver glints with promise, where secrets feel heavy as stone, and where God’s steady hand is the only compass worth trusting. In 1889 England, Eva and Bram’s story feels like a prayer answered slowly—a journey through guilt, wonder, and the quiet faith that holds everything together.

“God, I need answers… Jesus alone is our anchor.” Isn’t that the heart of every question we bring to God—Can grace really cover the ruins of my past? Will He see me even here? In these pages, I was reminded that His fingerprints never fade, even when life feels beyond repair. The shimmer of silver can’t outshine the quiet treasure of a soul held in His care.

Bram’s unwavering faith in the face of loss and Eva’s courage to see beyond fear spoke to me in such a gentle, powerful way. There’s something about Michelle Griep’s writing that beautifully entertains and tenderly invites you to breathe deeper and remember that no secret—whether spoken aloud or whispered only to ourselves—is too heavy for grace, and no heartbreak is beyond His care.

In the end, Of Silver and Secrets is a love story—yes, between a man and a woman, but even more so between a searching soul and the one and only sovereign God. It’s a story for those of us who need the reminder that faith, even in the smallest choices, can turn buried fears into the brightest kind of treasure.

Read it, savor it, and let it remind you that no secret is too heavy for grace.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

It is no secret that I am fascinated by historical artifacts and Of Silver and Secrets fed my love of history. Ms. Griep really put Eva and Bram in dire circumstances and did not shy away from putting obstacles in their way, whether it was evil people or a snowstorm. But there is hope within the pages and devotion to God is shown with right ultimately winning over machinations.
The characters are well depicted as flawed but striving for good. The descriptions put me right in the story. Along with the obvious draw of finding ancient relics, I was pleased by the love Eva and Bram had for books. And blind sister Penny was a force to be reckoned with despite her visual impairment. The author portrayed Eva as facing poverty but doing all she could to remedy the situation. The romance was a second chance story of meeting years later when Eva and Bram had matured and each has refined their faith, realizing: “God’s love and grace are constant whether we falter or not.”
Another wonderful historical offering by a favorite author.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

Of Silver and Secrets is a wonderful romp in Victorian England in 1889. Eva Inman cares for her twelve-year-old sister, who is blind, while trying to maintain the crumbling estate she recently inherited after her father's passing. Her taxes are due, and she lacks the funds to pay them. When Roman ancient antiquities are found on her property, she seeks the help of her childhood friend, Professor Bram Webb. This book has suspense, mystery, and sweet romance. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to all historical fiction readers. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.

I loved Of Silver and Secrets just as much as Of Gold and Shadows, the first book in the Time’s Lost Treasures series by Michelle Griep! Though it’s book two, you can absolutely read this as a standalone without missing anything. This Victorian era romance swept me away, and I just couldn’t put it down!

The characters and setting bring the story to life. For me, reading this was like watching it play out in real time! My heart just ached for the characters with their very real struggles. Eva had so much responsibility thrust on her as the sole caretaker of the Inman estate and for her blind sister, Penny. She struggled with guilt and her faith throughout much of the book, and it was very real. I think as Christians, most of us have gone through these same things. One quote that I loved from the book is this: “She would-she must-choose to believe God was not perpetually angry with her. That He had forgiven her for past mistakes, that there was grace for her in this nightmarish situation.” I felt this so deeply. I loved Bram, his uncle, Penny… I could go on and on about them, but it was Eva I felt the deepest connection to. Plus, you’ll discover your own love for them as you read!

I seriously loved everything about Of Silver and Secrets. The archeological dig was so intriguing as was learning more about this Roman Christian settlement in England. The author’s research brings life (and believability!) to the dig. There are some really tense moments and some twists that really stressed me out even though I knew there was going to be a happily ever after! I highly recommend this to all lovers of Christian historical fiction!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

THIS STORY WAS AMAZING 👏
It hit all the right notes I have come to expect of Griep's stories. Characters that are both intriguing and worthy of rooting for. Villains that are often unexpected. Mystery, Romance, Faith elements, redemption, and plot twists.
I have SO many quotes highlighted! I plan to create a whole post with my favorites.
I loved the sisterly moments between Eva and her sister Penny. It's so heartwarming how much Eva cares for her little sister.
All of Bram's parts were also very entertaining, I felt as though I was out there partaking in the expedition of digging up artifacts myself. LOVED ALL THE ELEMENTS OF THIS BOOK SO MUCH!
Do not take it lightly Michelle, when I say I loved Eva and Bram's story so much, that it is now my favorite story of yours. It has even topped "House at the End of the Moor," and that's saying something. Easily will make my top ten of the year. It was seriously that good!

Michelle Griep is a master of words, stringing them together to make an artful story. Of Silver and Secrets, the second book in her Time’s Lost Treasures series, is just another example of her brilliance. Archeology, mystery, skullduggery, romance, deception are among the themes in this book. I found myself angry and then woefully sad and happy the next. Emotions ran high in this beautiful tale with focus on God’s love. Loved it!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.

This is book two in the Time's Lost Treasure series, however it is a stand alone book. I have not read book one and had no issue keeping up, I might have missed a bit of history on some of the sub characters but this is still a great read. Eva Inman has a lot on her plate, and when her childhood friend Bram Webb come into her life, they are left to try to help each other out. I love the history, romance, friendship and theme of this book. I also enjoyed the personality of Bram and his influence on Eva. If you enjoy historical romance you will love this book. I was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion.

Attention historical fiction readers! Michelle Griep has written another fantastic story! Her new book, Of Silver and Secrets, filled with wonderful banter, secrets, mystery, intrigue, humor, and romance, will keep you thoroughly engaged and continuously turning the pages to read what happens next.

Griep with her extraordinary characters and exquisite, vivid prose transports us back in time to the Victorian era of 1889, England. Upon arrival we meet again Bram Webb, a professor and archeologist, who was first introduced in Of Gold and Shadows, the first book in this delightful Time’s Lost Treasures series. Bram is on the hunt for a legendary Christian Roman settlement to save his and his Uncle’s positions at Trinity College. 

Eva Inman, a once childhood friend of Bram’s, is overwhelmed as she tries to desperately keep her family’s crumbling estate going and take care of her blind sister Penny. Eva turns to Bram for help when an ancient silver ring is discovered while plowing the cursed acres. Together, will they save Bram’s and Uncle Pendleton’s jobs and the estate? Join them on their journey as they overcome obstacles, at every turn, while learning to work and grow together in love and faith. Learning to forgive yourself for things not in your control is the message threaded throughout this awesome story by Griep, which Eva struggled with.

Of Silver and Secrets, an unforgettable historical Christian mystery romance, which can be read as a standalone, was truly a joy to read. I highly recommend it to everyone who enjoys historical women’s fiction, romance, and mysteries.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley through Interviews & Reviews. I was not obligated to write a favorable review, and all opinions are my own.

I randomly stumbled upon Of Silver and Secrets, and when I opened the book to start reading, I discovered it was book 2. Therefore, I promptly ordered book 1 from the library and DEVOURED it. Therefore I had high expectations going into this book, and I was not disappointed.

The hint of mystery in the book was so well written, and the resolution had my jaw on the floor. I was surprised, to say the least!

Bram and Eva were hilarious, and I cackled my way through the book. Penny was a delight, as was Uncle Pendleton. The characterization was wonderful in this book!

Overall, easy five stars! Granted, it's pretty easy to get five stars out of me.

I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Another brilliant historical mystery by Michelle Griep! This one was a little less weighty on the mystery element as the first book, but did still have its fair share. The mystery was a bit more realistic however, in that you didn't know it was a mystery until it was being solved. Fans of the series will enjoy learning more about Bram Webb, who was a minor character in book 1, and getting to catch up briefly with Edmund and Ami. But if you haven't read the first book (or like me, it's been a hot minute), you won't be lost reading this one on its own. This story follows Bram Webb, a history professor at Trinity in Cambridge, whose job is on the line, along with his uncle's. It also follows Eva Inman, childhood friend of Bram's, who has found herself responsible for a failing estate. When their paths cross due to an artifact found in her field, no one could predict what all would happen next. Throw in a couple of age-old rivalries and you have the makings of a great tale!

This story, though filled with both romance and mystery read a lot like women's fiction, which I absolutely loved. Rather than focusing on the romance itself, the issues facing both of the main characters were their main focus and the romance happened in the background, which is how I like to see the romance happen. There was a solid faith thread as both main characters learned to trust in God's timing and God's view of their lives and I enjoyed how He worked in and through these characters who felt like friends. Bram's uncle Pendleton and Eva's sister Penny made delightful side characters as well and added depth to the story. I enjoyed the natural story arc and the way the mystery played out, coming to a head towards the end. All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and is one I can easily recommend to fans of historical romance, women's fiction, and mysteries. Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

This is a delightful sequel to Of Gold and Shadows, though it can be read as a standalone. Bram, introduced in book 1, is a professor of Roman history. Eva, who had her heart broken by Bram as a child, is desperately trying to save her home when Roman artifacts are found on her land.

Both characters face difficult circumstances. Eva is caring for her blind sister while Bram’s uncle, a fellow professor, has cognitive issues. Both also have secrets that severely burden their hearts. These are likable characters with great chemistry. The story is charming and filled with witty banter appropriate for the time period.

This is Christian fiction so you can expect prayer and discussions about faith, God, and His sovereignty.

I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone, especially lovers of historical fiction and archaeology.

Family friendly.

Thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Of Silver and Secrets is a gem of a book. I will admit I was a little iffy on if I would like this one because Of Gold and Shadows was just average for me. Of Silver and Secrets far exceeded my expectations. It wasn't moody like most of Griep's other novels are, but I appreciated that. This installment in the series has more archeological details that I felt were lacking in Of Gold and Shadows.

Eva and Bram struggled with the same issue, but it was written in different ways. I liked how Griep wrote this. The true highlight in this novel are the secondary characters. I adored Professor Pendleton and Penny. Professor Pendleton is eccentric. I couldn't quite tell the source of such eccentricity, but I think Griep leaves that up to the read. What an interesting (and somewhat heartbreaking) storyline Penny has with being blind, yet incredibly intelligent.

The mystery of this novel is much more captivating than in Of Gold and Shadows. That plot turn at the end left my mouth open. 5 stars for Of Silver and Secrets!

Thank you to NetGalley and Bethany House for this complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.

OF SILVER AND SECRETS is the second novel in the Time’s Lost Treasures series by MICHELLE GRIEP, but it can easily stand alone. The book has all you need for a most enjoyable read - delightful characters, a sweet romance, a couple of villains, treasure, superstition, a possible curse and a lovely message of hope in God and His wonderful mercy, all in the setting of an archeological dig at Inman Manor in Royston.
It is 1889 and Eva Inman has been left to cope with a crumbling manor house and her blind sister, Penny, with no money to pay her taxes. She also carries a heavy load of guilt…..
Bram Webb, a childhood friend, with his uncle Pemberton, are professors of history at Trinity College, Cambridge. Bram is determined to unearth a Caelum Academia, the proof of a Christian hideout during the time of Roman persecution, in order to save his beloved, brilliant and forgetful uncle’s reputation……
With Bram’s return to Royston to work on the dig on her land, not only artifacts are brought to the surface!
I don’t want to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
I cannot recommend this truly lovely book strongly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this revieware completely my own.

We briefly met Bram in the story of Edmund and Ami, but now we get Bram's story. Bram's story is a tale of childhood friends who fell out and moved away. Reunited by accident, they discover their pull for each other is stronger than ever. Just a lot more complicated.

I loved how as a reader you KNEW that the archaeology site was going to be exactly what they wanted, but wow. Talk about waiting until the very last moment and a LOT of ups and downs for everything to work out. Then the startling turn part way through the book with a new "villain" who may be worse than any of the others!

The message of forgiving oneself for things that were completely out of your control is big. To be able to move forward from past mistakes so they don't keep dragging the future down. And complete 100% trust in God as a good God who takes care of His children.

Personally, I preferred book #1, but this one was still good!

4 Stars
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGAlley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.

Of Silver and Secrets transported me to 1889 England. Eva, the owner of Inman Manor, along with her blind sister, Penny, gets re-acquainted with Eva's childhood friend, Bram, and his quirky and forgetful uncle. Bram is in charge of the archeological dig site on Inman Manor. The story has a lot of intrigue, suspense, villains, twists, and turns. I love stories that include archaeological sites, so this was a plus.

The author combines historical details and fiction woven at its finest. The story is filled with moments of sadness, fear, faith, and extreme joy, as I turned the pages, not knowing what to expect next. A twist in the story brought me to tears, while the ending was inspirational, filled with faith, and a beautiful romance.

I read the book in one sitting and hated for it to end. It left a lasting impression on me. Highly recommended.

This book was everything I wanted it to be! Michelle Griep masterfully weaves together romance, mystery, and history. The story of Eva Inman and Bram Webb pulled me in from the very first page and refused to let go! Eva and Bram’s childhood history added a layer to this story that I loved! It gave the reader glimpses of who they each were at their core. I loved that Bram slowly broke down Eva’s walls by just being himself. The mystery element was threaded into this story just enough to add intrigue without distracting from the romance. The conclusion was a bit nail biting, but the author definitely won’t leave you without a happily ever after!
If you love historical fiction with slow-burn romance, high emotional stakes, and a touch of mystery, this book is a must-read.

[Thank you to @netgally and to Bethany House Publishers for my gifted copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.]

Set in 1889 England, Of Silver and Secrets follows Eva Inman and Bram Web. Eva is struggling to hold onto her family’s home and take care of her sister who is blind. Bram is a professor and archeologist working to prove the existence of an ancient Roman Christian settlement and save he and his uncle’s careers. Eva and Bram have some past history together, but do they have a future?

I really enjoyed the first book of this series, Of Gold and Shadows, so I was really excited at the opportunity to read Of Silver and Secrets!

I enjoyed this second book just as much as the first and would recommend reading the first book first, though this second book could absolutely be read as a stand-alone. We do meet the characters from Of Gold and Shadows again but only briefly, and I wouldn’t say that there are any spoilers in that meeting.

Read this for:

-Christian faith themes
-Mystery
-Clean romance
-Victoria era England
-Archeology
-Plot twists
-Second-chance romance

Definitely recommend!