Friday, November 22, 2019

ONCE UPON A DICKENS CHRISTMAS from Michelle Griep, Reviews by Winnie Thomas and Trixi Oberembt

Once Upon a Dickens Christmas by Michelle Griep
TRIXI'S REVIEW:

I've always enjoyed stories by Michelle Griep, so to have a three-in-one was like opening an extra special Christmas present! Which is exactly what these are based on, Christmas. Step back in time and walk in the Victorian era, Dickens classics come to life.

Each story has its unique blend of cast, characters, plot and a little mystery behind them. I like the recurrence of a “second chance coin” that blended these three together beautifully. I also loved how circumstances brought two people together and how by the end, they fell in love. If I had to choose a “favorite” among them, I'd have to go with “The Old Lace Shop” as it reminds me of “North and South”. My favorite four-part TV show made into full length movie in the history of movies! And let's not forget the unique dialogue Griep uses to tell these tales of old; all in her own writers voice that I know so well. I've never been disappointed by any of her novels and know I'm in for a treat with each story she pens!

If you're looking for those perfect Christmasy reads for the holidays, be sure to pick up “Once Upon a Dickens Christmas”!

“You see, my dear, real joy is not found in the best moments of life, but in trusting that God is making the best of every moment...” A Tale of Two Hearts.
*I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing through Netgalley and was not obligated to leave a review. *

12 Days at Bleakly Manor (2017) and A Tale of Two Hearts (2018) were released previously and now brought together as part of the three story collection with the addition of The Old Lace Shop to create the ONCE UPON A DICKENS  CHRISTMAS Collection!

12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep
WINNIE'S REVIEW:

Full of plot twists and turns, Michelle Griep’s take on Bleak House by Charles Dickens, and Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, kept me turning pages well into the night. The setting in England in 1850 and the fascinating characters added to my enjoyment of this intricate tale. The cover is charming and enhances the atmosphere of the story. 
I appreciated the explanation of Victorian Christmas Traditions in the back of the book, as it helped to understand some of the happenings. This is a perfect cozy mystery for Christmas. I would recommend this to those who enjoy clean historical fiction mysteries.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. 



A Tale of Two Hearts by Michelle Griep
WINNIE'S REVIEW:

Set in Victorian London and populated with colorful and engaging characters, A Tale of Two Hearts by Michelle Griep is a charming Christmas story. Mina is delightful with her love of books and her heart for helping others, and Will is kind and caring. They learn valuable lessons when they enter into a deception which digs a hole that gets deeper and deeper. Miss Whymsy was delightful and her observations showed great insight.

I enjoyed the Dickens quotes at the beginning of each chapter which added meaning and atmosphere to the story. The themes of second chances and faith are skillfully woven throughout and give an uplifting touch. Griep’s talents shine in this story, especially in the settings, the characters, and the rich imagery. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher/Net/Galley. All opinions are my own.


BackCover Blurb:
Three Delightful Christmas Tales from Beloved Storyteller Michelle Griep


Pour yourself a cuppa, get lost in the merriment of the season, and enjoy a Dickensian Christmas in three stories from fan favorite Michelle Griep:
12 Days at Bleakly Manor: Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they’ve been striving for isn’t what ultimately matters. What matters most is what Christmas is all about . . . love.
 
A Tale of Two Hearts: Pleasure seeker William Barlow needs a wife immediately to gain his uncle’s inheritance, and Mina Scott is just the girl to make him look respectable—too bad she turns him down. Ought he give her a second chance?
 
The Old Lace Shop: Recently widowed Bella White is finally freed from the domination of the overbearing men in her life, but when she enters into a business partnership with the handsome Edmund Archer, she begins to wonder if marriage is worth a second chance.
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:

Buy Once Upon a Dickens Christmas at Amazon
Buy Once Upon a Dickens Christmas at Christianbook.com


3 comments:

  1. Stories like this are my 'Hallmark Movie' replacement! I'm sure I'll go audio here, which I'm really looking forward to!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can't go wrong with a Griep Christmas tale! I hope you enjoy this Debra. I'm sure the audio version will be quite delightful.

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  2. I was trying to think of a Christmas tale to read this year and am so glad that I came upon this post. I believe this is the one that I'll be picking up.
    Michelle is such an amazing author

    ReplyDelete

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