I'll just start out by saying that I definitely recommend Jody Hedlund. I read Unending Devotion last year and became a follower. You can read that review here. A Noble Groom centers the lives of German settlers in the late 1800s. It starts with the surprising death of Annalisa Werner's husband. With his death took her meager chances at a future. She needs to pay off the loan on her land or lose it. Her father requests a suitable husband for her from his brother, who still lives in "Old country." Carl Richards answers the letter, but is not her groom. He does agree to help, although he has no idea how to do it.

The rich history of the time period, immigration and the battle of the classes provides the perfect backdrop for this story. I was immediately drawn into it. The story flows well. The characters are three-dimensional with wonderful growth. There is a strong Christian theme. This is a great book by a talented author. I did receive my copy free in exchange for my honest review.

There's a reason people say to save the best for last. The Noble Guardian is absolutely the best in this series and I'm thrilled it ended on such a high note. Once again Griep pulled me into the world of her characters and didn't let go. Abby and Samuel were perfect!

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Noble Guardian is a wonderful mysterious read. I highly enjoyed it. I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.

This volume is the second in a series, but can be read as a standalone. Samuel, a captain and Bow Street runner becomes a guardian for a woman named Abby and a baby. The baby is going to a relative and Abby is going to the home of her intended ( who she does not know well). This novel has a lot of adventure, some fight scenes (sometimes to the death), and moments of despair. This is countered by the love of the baby, Emma, and the developing feelings of Abby and the captain.

Faith is present in prayers and conversation. There are more than a few villains and even some scandalous going-ons. Those who dislike love triangles will be pleased. There is the expected “happily ever after” ending, but a lot of peril before they get there.

I read the e-galley for most of the book and listened to the last third via audiobook.

Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the e-galley. My ratings and reviews are my own.

TW and CW:





violence; blood and gore; sexual harassment, both physical and verbal

Excellent story! Probably my favorite of the series. I really liked the hints towards Cinderella. I love how the circumstances brought learning, growth, love and forgiveness. Wonderful story!

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Noble Guardian is Michelle's third book in The Bow Street Runners Trilogy. Fun, witty and light! You will enjoy reading as the Regency Era comes to life in her distinct and playful writing. If you want to see some of Michelle's personality, check out our two epic face-offs! I'll post the links below. Also, is a link to her website, should you want to check it out. Now, on to the story!

Abigail must leave the home of her evil step-mother and step-sisters to...Wait, this sounds familiar. Okay, double-checked and it's not Cinderella. Nope. She's heading out to meet her betrothed! Of course, it can't be as easy as all that! She has already met her true love and is betrothed when the book starts?!

Of course not. Of course he's not the one! Trying to avoid the fierce bandits taking liberties with travelers, she hires a handsome lawman to escort her. I don't see anything here that would make her life more difficult to navigate... It's totally NOT confusing to have a handsome protector, that completely gets on your nerves, travels with you and help you through many terrible dangers. *sigh* What a nightmare.

Well, as you can guess, there are a lot of fun adventures here. I definitely recommend picking up a copy and checking it out! You won't regret it if you are looking for something sweet and fun. Again, it's the third book in a trilogy, but it can be read on it's own. I have been wanting to get to it for a while and I'm glad I finally did!

Of course, this book was given to me for the purpose of reviewing and, as always, this is my honest opinion. Here's to many more!

Such a satisfying end to this trilogy! I loved reading Samuel and Abby's story and especially fell in love with the little one who joined their journey. I did grow frustrated with Abby's naivety and Samuel's stubbornness, but I think I was supposed to, and it was so well-written and engaging, I found this book impossible to put down. Michelle Griep is swiftly becoming one of those authors that I'll read any book she writes regardless of genre because, at this point, I already know I'll love it!

I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from NetGalley.

Wanting nothing more than to purchase a piece of land to call his own and retire from the his position with the horse patrol of the Bow Street Runners, Captain Daniel Thatcher's life quickly becomes more complicated. Stalked by a dangerous criminal, he refuses the offer of employment as an escort across a dangerous stretch of English countryside.

Abigail Gilbert is in danger, in denial, and just wants to be loved. Determined to travel to her fiancé's estate, she hires Daniel despite his reluctance. And all too soon, there is also the transport of a baby to complicate matters further.

Last in the Bow Street Runners trilogy, The Noble Guardian is a delightful Regency romance that traverses dangerous territory with risks from highwaymen and danger to their hearts. Author Michelle Griep's writing never disappoints, and this particular entry in the trilogy was a mix of familiar and surprising plot developments along with lead characters that the reader can cheer for. With at least passing mention of previous characters, including one Mister Lucius Nutbrown, it can be read as a standalone. No surprise that I rate The Noble Guardian as "highly recommended" for fans of Historical Fiction, Regencies, and/or Inspirational Romance. I adored Abigail, Daniel, and every bit - despite the lack of comeuppance for her family - of their journey towards their happily ever after.

This review refers to a temporary digital galley I voluntarily read via NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. A positive review was not required and these are only my own, honest opinions.

This story was nothing short of delightful! Samuel finds his perfect solitary existence broken by Abby, a proper lady em route to her betrothed. She has been sent defenseless into the journey by a callous, calculating stepmother (isn’t it ALWAYS the stepmother though?) and a father who could only be bothered to put a dollar amount on her value. Abby works very hard to overcome her insecurities and learn that she has merit far above her dowry, and has a very meaningful development to enrich her faith and personal beliefs. Poor Samuel just doesn’t stand a chance against Abby’s charms, and she can’t resist her handsome, noble captain. Together they travel, adopting an adorable toddler along the way, fighting brigands and blackguards at every turn, including some that should be on their side. I haven’t read the other Bow Street Runners books, but I’m looking forward to working my way backward! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a review.

"She [the heroine]… kicked like a wild donkey. A heel caught Samuel's jaw, jerking his face sideways. Pain shot to his temple. Sweet blessed heavens! Must every person he tried to help lash out at him?"

"The Noble Guardian" (2019, Shiloh Run Press), third in "The Bow Street Runners" series by Michelle Griep, is a clean Regency romance set in 1815 Southampton and Hounslow Heath, England. The novel is a standalone story, connected to the previous stories by brief appearances of characters Officer Alexander Moore (book two) and Nicholas Brentwood (book one) from preceding books. I loved the first two and really was looking forward to this one. I'm sad to see this series end, and that's really saying something for me! I generally feel that three is just the right number of books for a series and am perfectly content to move on to something else.

Rating: 5 stars

The heroine: Abigail Gilbert is a sort of a Cinderella figure. She feels unwanted and unloved at home, and her stepmother rules the roost. Her father is never even seen in this story. With a dowry, she's shipped off to Sir Jonathan Aberley, a baronet, for an arranged marriage with only a maid to accompany her. It doesn't take long for Abby to decide that she needs more adequate protection on her journey.

The hero: Samuel Thatcher, 31, is ready to leave the Bow Street Runners. He's had enough. "After ten years on the force, with five in the Nineteenth Dragoons before that, Samuel Thatcher's soul was more than singed. It was seared to a crisp." He plans to continue working just long enough to enable him to buy a parcel of land and retire. "That was exactly what he wished - to be left alone.</i> But for now, Samuel Thatcher is still in the business of helping people. And he soon encounters Abby, who is in definite need of help. " 'I am a Principal Officer operating out of Bow Street. Now get in the carriage. You're safe as long as I'm with you.' Safe? She trapped a retort behind her teeth. He may be an officer of the crown, but there was nothing safe about him."

Historical background: Ms. Griep includes some really nice historical notes at the end of the novel, including some information about the difference between a physician and a surgeon during the Regency period. I always appreciate a few pages of historical notes selected by the author.

Christian elements: There are occasional prayers to God and mentions of faith. "One more piece of his [Samuel's] charred heart crumbled loose, leaving his faith more jagged than before. It wasn't fair, such suffering for a little one - and he knew that better than most. Though both Samuel and Abigail have gone through trials, her faith is stronger than Samuel's. "...she purposely tuned her thoughts to memorized portions of the Psalms, losing herself in still waters and green pastures… one of her favorite ways to drift into sleep.

Is it clean/chaste? Yes.

Other content issues: There is some violence, but at a level that I would be comfortable with sharing with my teens. I did notice a substitute phrase for a swear. I do count that as swearing and that I would choose as an author not to do it. It doesn't bother me, technically, but I thought it was worth mentioning. "Why the flippity-flam can you not warn me when you come through the door? There's swearing mentioned but not written out by someone who isn't a main character. I didn't really count substitute-swears and mentions of swearing, but I think the numbers would be pretty low if I had.

What I liked:

*Both the heroine and hero are admirable - and likable - people. My ideal set-up.

What I didn’t like:

*See mentions of swearing in the "Other content issues" section.
***********

Other Recommendations:

Book 1: Brentwood's Ward

Book 2: The Innkeeper's Daughter

The bottom line: This was another worthwhile romantic adventure in the "Bow Street Runner" series. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys clean or Christian Regency romance. I really loved this series. I try to keep up with this author - at my own pace, which is too slow - and am about to read "The Thief of Blackfriar's Lane."

A great conclusion to the Bow Street Runners series! I really liked Samuel and Abigail and their developing relationship and Emma was a sweetie. The story is exciting and I enjoyed it. This was definitely my favorite of the series and I am sorry to see the series end.

Another really great book from Michelle Griep. I wish is could give it more than 5 stars. You can read this as a stand alone or in the series!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.!!

Synopsis:
Miss Isadora Delafield may be an heiress, but her life is far from carefree. When her mother begins pressuring her to marry an elderly and uncouth duke, she escapes from the high society world she's always known and finds herself to be an unlikely candidate for a housekeeper position in rural Pennsylvania.

Mr. Ian MacKenzie is known for his savvy business sense and has built his reputation and fortune completely on his own merits. But when his adopted parents are in need of a new housekeeper and Isadora is thrown into his path, he's unexpectedly charmed by her unconventional manner.

Neither Isadora nor Ian expected to find the other so intriguing, but when mysterious incidents on the farm and the truth of Isadora's secret threaten those they love, they'll have to set aside everything they thought they wanted for a chance at happy-ever-after.

Michelle Griep does it again. The Noble Guardian is another fabulous historical story, and I absolutely loved it.

When highwaymen disrupt her trip to meet her fiancé, Abigail Gilbert meets Samuel Thatcher, a horse patrol captain, just in time. Each has something the other needs, so they embark on the remainder of Abby’s journey with a tenuous agreement. Only, it’s a far more obstacle-laden adventure than they anticipated, leading to a few interesting—and delightful—twists and turns.

If you love historical fiction, definitely do not hesitate to pick up The Noble Guardian. I highly recommend it.

I had not read all the first books in this series but Michelle Griep created some terrific characters. The gruff lawman had just the right touches of humanity. His opposite was found in the proper lady he set off to protect. I am not as inclined to like a romance as the historical setting or this could have been a 4 or 5 star. Looking forward to her next book.

I loved this book! The adventure, intrigue, and drama keep you on your toes. That’s what happens when you throw a proper young lady, a Bow Street Runner and a toddler together. Come join Abigail, the Captain and little Emma as they journey across the English country side facing danger, and learn to trust and pray for God to help them through their journey. They even find a new home and romance along the way!

Did I Like Michelle Griep’s Latest Regency Novel?
Nope. Why would I like a book with a sweet, fun, and sometimes feisty heroine, a principled and courageous hero, and lovely lessons in trust, faith, and reliance on the Lord? Who likes books where even 99.9% of the word choices are perfect? How could I possibly appreciate lovely writing or excellent story structure?

Tongue. Check. Cheek… check, check!

Griep took the sort of plot that might have been in a cheesy Regency romance and turned it on its head. The result: a believable story full of adventure, danger, hope, and faith.

My understanding of Scripture requires I do point out my one problem with The Noble Guardian.

Ms. Griep chose to have the Lord speaking to the hearts of the main characters, telling them what to do, what would come to pass, etc. While those words were mostly vague and generic I need to point them out for those who don’t agree with extra-Biblical conversations from the Lord with us.

It did not, however, detract from the story or cross into anything that I felt uncomfortable reading.

Who do I recommend the book for?
Lovers of historical fiction, strong but feminine women, books with realistic faith exhibited, or engaging stories will love this book. I knew I wouldn’t regret requesting a review copy, and I was right. It’s so great the rare times I get to be right! 😀

I read and reviewed the first book Brentwood's Ward in 2016. I enjoyed Nicholas and Emily's story. I purchased, but hadn't read The Innkeeper's daughter which is the second book in the trilogy. However, when I discovered that the third book in the trilogy was being released I was eager to read it. The Noble Guardian was very reminiscent of the first book. Michelle Griep knows how to write a swoon worthy heroine. Samuel has little to lose. He just wants some land and to be left alone. Abigail has been treated poorly by her family. Her needs and feelings have been neglected and disregarded. Unknowingly, both need each other and will discover that just because you make your own plans God may have other plans for you. This was a fantastic read that I highly recommend.

I was given this ARC by the publisher via Netgalley

Griep's unparalleled sense of gothic atmosphere is matched by a dishy, brooding hero and a lady who deserves better than the lot cast her.

I love the Heyer-esque use of journeying and the travails and triumphs therein that recalled favourite reads by Carla Kelly and even Angela Hunt. And as we swiftly move from place to place--at turns dangerous and tranquil-- Griep's competent pen and exceptional world building are put to great use.


I also would like to spare a moment for the cover .... wonderful to see a man on the front of a CBA historical--- and a bit anomalous at that :)


also shared on instagram/ twitter

Back in the day, it was unsafe for a woman to travel alone. Yet this young woman, left her family because of a step family who didn’t like her, set off to find the prestigious gentleman she was to marry. However, it seems there’s highwaymen who are determined to ruin Abigail Gilbert’s journey.

Early on, Abigail comes across a man named Samuel , who is a horse patrol captain. She doesn’t care much for him, but she knows she can’t travel alone. He winds up escorting her to Abigail’s betrothed. Samuel is very skilled and knowledgeable in traveling during these parts and also knows there’s a criminal leader looking for Samuel’s head.

Traveling by stagecoach is not always easy. There’s so much to be concerned about. As they pull up to various towns or homes, Samuel goes over what to do and not to do with Abigail. in the end it seems Samuel knows what he’s talking about and he seems to know a lot that happens in these parts.

The Noble Guardian by Michelle Griep was provided complimentary in exchange for an honest review. I give this book five out of five tiaras. I recommend it to readers who enjoy a quick read with action and a twinkle of romance. #bookslattesandtiaras

I’m so so sorry to see this series end!
Hopefully, Michelle Griep will bless us with a new series soon…
Anyway, about the finale of the The Bow Street Runners Trilogy, it couldn’t have been any better! I totally loved it! And I think Samuel Tatcher is my new favorite hero. I watched him through out the previous books, and he was a truly misterious man: few words, dark and brooding… So I was eager to get to know him better when his turn was due. And I totally fell in love with him! And I loved the cover, as it gave me the perfect image of him, it fitted his personality just perfectly.
Samuel Thatcher, one of England’s Bow Street Runners, is weary of his job and ready to retire. He has seen enough of life’s injustice and sorrow, and all he wishes for is a quiet life for himself. He just needs a little bit of more money so he can finally buy a land he has on mind and then his dream will finally come true. So, he keeps on, hoping the end is almost near, until he meets his match: charming, headstrong and spirited Abigail, during one of his stops at a fateful inn.
Abigail Gilbert is about to reach her dream: to get away from her family that seems to despise her and marry one of the most eligible bachelors she could hope for. She only has to get to his estate which she will have to do by her own means and only her maid to accompany her. She should be able to accomplish that, right? It will be so much worth it. That is, until they are attacked by highway men and Samuel comes to their rescue. Samuel just wants to take them to the next inn and leave them be, but Abby asks him to escort her on her journey. Samuel fights his compassionate heart and rejects her, but her offer is just too tempting: a retribution that will finally let him purchase his land and let him and enjoy some peace…
What he never expects is what the journey will ensue. Danger and adventure along the way and an attraction he immediately denies to himself (he is taking her to her betrothed isn't he?). Add a sweet babe to the mix who they have to deliver to her aunt and you have a beautiful, sweet, fun, dangerous and gripping story that will keep you wanting for more!
I loved the plot of this story, but I especially loved the characters. Samuel won my heart from the start: his cool, weary and dettached appeareance only hid a soft heart that will show itself when the ones he’s responsable for and growing to love are in need to protection. It was touching to see him be so protective of his charges, and I particularly loved the ironical humor that characterizes him. The banters between him and Abby were a delight to read. And I loved how Abby grows through out the story, from being naive and used to commodities to being a strong woman who will face the challenges life throws her.
The romance was really sweet. And the dangers, the pending marriage which she had idealized, all of it made a truly page Turner of this story.
I definitely reccomend it, as I do with every one of Michelle’s books. But this one in particular is now my new favorite of hers. Can't wait for her next story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher vía NetGalley and this is my honest and unbiased review.