The Noble Guardian by Michelle Griep

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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Story Notes

Michelle Griep concludes her Bow Street Runners Trilogy with a well written, high action story that will leave readers wishing they could be rescued by such an wonderful hero.

What a good story! This was the thought that ran through my head as I read this book. I love historical fiction and especially those based in England so this was a good choice for a review book. However, I was very glad to see all the unexpected action/adventure that was included in this book, too. Abigail Gilbert has left her childhood home with only her companion to travel to her fiance’s home to prepare for her marriage. While she has only met her fiance once, she was smitten with his looks and his treatment of her. Now, if only she can make it to her new home. But those plans will be thrown over entirely with the attack of a much feared highwayman intent on taking more than just Abby’s possessions. Samuel Thatcher successfully interrupts the attack, killing the leader and severely wounding his accomplice. But the dead man has a more violent brother who will stop at nothing to avenge his brother’s death. Unwilling to let Abby continue on without a guard, Samuel offers to take her to her new home. His price is more than money, however, as he needs help to take the daughter of a good friend to her aunt in a nearby town. Thus, Abby and Samuel agree to help each other make the journey. Making their way proves troublesome as they try to move with speed and care for the infant they are transporting. And when little Emma becomes ill, more time is required before they can move on. As they both find ways to help the other on the journey, they will discover that there is much more to like about the other than meets the eye. And they will need the strength, courage and grace they find in each other when they finally arrive at Abby’s new home. Nothing is as she hoped and she will have to decide what she really wants out of life and love. As I said before, this book had much to like. From the well written characters to the witty dialogue, this book will definitely be one that readers will come back to more than once. I’m always a fan of very strong, heroic men in stories who are trying to find a way to move beyond the rough life they have led thus far. They are always in need of a gentling hand of a lady who can come alongside to lend strength and courage when needed. I was really glad to see that Ms. Griep gave both main characters a strong personality that worked well off the other. The developing relationship between Samuel and Abby was very natural and expected. The danger and intrigue they experienced was also well done without being over the top. And the journey of faith that each experienced was very good as well. Nothing seemed out of place nor was a thread of the story left hanging at the end. I will certainly be recommending this book to others and know they will find it very good. I’m very glad to see that Ms. Griep is continuing to write such enjoyable stories.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing/Shiloh Run Press via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

I have not visited England, although my children have. I enjoy reading books about places I may never visit - The Noble Guardian provided that field trip for me.

Set in 1815 at a time of arranged marriages and highway robbers, The Noble Guardian, contains both danger and romance. Michelle Griep has given the reader characters to hate as well as characters to love. Watching the relationship grow between Abby and her guardian leaves the reader with speculation as to how this developing love will be resolved once Abby has been delivered to her betrothed.

I always appreciate it when authors provide some historical background for their novels. Michelle Griep does that with historical notes at the end of the book. She includes information about highwayman, the magistrates of Bow Street, physicians vs. surgeons vs. apothecaries, coaching inns, and about two health ailments mentioned in the story: croup and putrid throat. She also includes a bibliography which would be helpful for readers who want to do some research of their own.

I would not hesitate to add The Noble Guardian to my K-12 Christian School library. The book is appropriate for high schoolers and maybe some middle schoolers.

I received a complimentary e-copy through Net Galley.

This is the first book that I have read in the Bow Street Runners series by Michelle Griep but the book could be read as a stand-alone. I loved being introduced to Samuel and Abby. Abby is sent off to marry a baronet after her family does not need to have her around. Times are hard as many carriages are robbed by highwaymen during travels and Abby is sent without a manservant during the journey. Samuel's life has not been easy. He does not want to get straddled with anything or anyone. When life's circumstances bring Abby and Samuel together, Samuel is struggling with his feelings. He is supposed to be delivering Abby to the baronet but, now with a baby in tow along with Abby, things change. I loved reading about Samuel and Abby's journey and how they finally realize their feelings. Great historical fiction and I love the fact that Ms. Griep includes the history part in the back of the book. I will definitely be reading more of Ms. Griep's books.

This was an all right book. Definitely not my favorite by Michelle Griep, an author I love. Fun plot and engaging characters. Good for Christian historical fiction fans that like adventurous novels.

I read a lot of historical Christian fiction, and for a few years now, my absolute number one, favorite book has been The Captive Heart, by Michelle Griep. Well, I have a new favorite -- The Noble Guardian. Such a romp! What fun characters -- a quiet, jaded lawman thrown together with a spunky, optimistic lady on her way to marry someone else. Somehow, even though you know exactly where this journey will end, the ride is so great, you don't mind. Ms. Griep's writing style shines with vivid scenes and compelling characters. So quit scrolling through reviews and get this book :)
Thanks so much to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me an advanced copy in order to supply my honest opinion.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Noble Guardian is a well written, captivating novel which follows the story of a young damsel in distress searching for freedom and pining to be wanted. Escaping, for lack of a more appropriate word, from the clutches of an evil stepmother, she lets nothing hinder her in her quest to get to her fiance whom she has met and believed to have fallen in love with at a ball. Ofcourse, with any damsel in distress story, we are introduced to her knight in shining armour. This is a beautifully written story with an equally beautiful and fitting ending.

A fairly predictable installment that finishes her series nicely, A Noble Guardian offers much for those seeking faith-filled romantic historical fiction. Emphasis on the faith-filled romance. If you're looking for that, you'll find a pleasant few hours reading this novel.

"The Noble Guardian" tells the story of the very harrowing trip of a young woman. As she travels to her arranged marriage, the heroine encounters storms, accidents, highwaymen, and illness, among other trials and tribulations. She finds her escort and protector in a police officer who is involved in hunting down a notorious highwayman. In the process of traveling to her destination, Abby also acquires guardianship of a baby girl, whom she comes to adore. Upon reaching her final destination, Abby also finds a surprise is in store when she meets her intended spouse!

This book is filled with adventure, suspense, both evil and good people, fights, and romance. The Christian aspect is covert for most of the book, with a few overt scenes that deal with people who are seeking peace and God's way for their lives. This aspect of the story adds to the plot interest. Readers who enjoy action and suspense along with their romance reading will find this book intriguing.

I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

Can they each find the peace they both desire?

Now that I've read a few of Michelle Griep's books I've come to expect a lot from her. Her trademark is historical romance with flawed but likable characters and a nice healthy dash of suspense.

The Noble Guardian started out a little slow for me, more historical romancy at first, but then, boy, howdy did it take off and I was totally immersed in the story. This book really has it all, lots of atmosphere on the wild roads of Regency England, danger, mystery, and, of course, romance between two polar opposite characters that you can't help but love. There are also some surprising secondary characters, both the wonderful and the menacing.

One of my favorite parts of the book was getting to learn so much about travel and accommodations in Regency era England. Do you know what a postilion was? I didn't until I read The Noble Guardian.

I really enjoyed my foray into history with The Bow Street Runners and now that I've finished The Noble Guardian I can't wait for Michelle Griep's next exciting novel...

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Abigail (Abby) Gilbert has been raised by an indifferent father and a hateful stepmother and stepsisters. Now her father has betrothed her to a baronet. She is being sent off with only her maid and an inexperienced coachman to make her way through the English highlands that are currently plagued with highwaymen. Samuel Thatcher, a Bow Street runner, encounters Abigail when she is stopped by highwaymen and her coachmen is killed.

Filled with action, danger, and romantic adventure, Michelle Griep has penned another wonderful historical romantic suspense novel. Each of the books in this series reads well as a stand alone even though there are a few connections in each because the heroes of each are Bow Street Runners. Abby is filled with caring sweetness; yet at the same time, she is a fighter. Samuel is a dark, brooding, appealing hero who is loyal, protective, caring, and honorable. And, of course, baby Emma steals the limelight every time she appears.

Michelle Griep excels at bringing this time period to life and creates memorable characters that fill the story with life and adventure. Her historical notes at the end added interesting information regarding this time period.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

I've come to appreciate and enjoy Michelle Griep's historical fiction.

My initial thoughts as I began the book was that it felt like a Cinderella retelling- a beautiful young lady, hated by her two stepsisters and stepmother. Abby is betrothed to a gentleman, and needs to leave to go marry him, but none of her family can be bothered to accompany her on the difficult journey, or even come to her wedding. So she's sent off with only her maid to travel with her. Then they encounter all kinds of difficulties.

This of course is where the hero comes in. Captain Thatcher. At first, Abby mistakenly assumed him for a highwayman. But that's because they'd already been chased after by some of those bad guys.

Folks, This is just the beginning! Well-written, lovely setting, and much, much more.

If you enjoy historical fiction, read it! This is the final book in a series, but can also be read as a stand alone.

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

The Noble Guardian is another exceptional read by author Griep. First off, the cover is one of my favorites of a gentleman prominently displayed. It also represents the story and sets the mood very well. The story inside is packed with love, romance, action, adventure, and highwaymen nobody in their right minds would want to come across.
Abigail Gilbert had a bit of a Cinderella vibe going on with her family history and I felt her desperation and hope as she travels toward the man that she believes is her prince. However, along the way some really bad men decide to throw a wrench into her plans and her destination is delayed many times over.
Enter Officer Samuel Thatcher who is tired of the inhumanity of lawless men and women and just wants to retire to a nice farm someplace off the beaten path. Unfortunately a very evil man has set his revenge and sights on doing away with Samuel and all those he may care about.
Thrown together quite by accident, Samuel and Abigail along with a precocious baby girl must travel through a dangerous trek of land fighting not only weather and men’s evil but their growing attraction to one another. Gruff Samuel and tender Abigail may have set their hopes on all the wrong things.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

WOW!! This is my first book by Michelle Griep, but it won't be my last. It's 1815 and Abigail Gilbert (Abby) is leaving home to travel across England to the man she's to marry. It's just her and her maid--no footman or manservant to protect them on such a long journey. Abigail turns down the offer to hire a sharpshooter which she later regrets, and she and her maid (who's quite outspoken for a maid) are saved from attackers by Samuel Thatcher, who's growing tired of his job. Captain Thatcher agrees to guard Abby the rest of her journey because the money she offers will allow him to quit his job and buy some land, if they can make it to her destination.

Abby's treatment by her stepmother and half-sisters reminded me of Cinderella. It's obvious her stepmother hates her and Abby's the one who put forth the effort to be friends with her half-sisters. I often wondered why her father allowed her to be treated that way, as it's not explained except to say "Father had been too preoccupied with his new wife, and her stepmother truly had only space for one love in heart--herself." Her stepmother ridiculed her up to the time she left her her journey and she was the only one around to see her off--if that's what you want to call it. Her father was not home as they were all going abroad to visit her brother. Abby's also quite naive as to how the world works and the dangers out there facing her in such a long journey. She also built up what her intended, Sir Johnathon Aberley baronet, would be like. She only met him once at a ball but is so sure he's good and kind she promises Samuel that Johnathon will pay him when she arrives safely.

Captain Samuel Thatcher is a man who's seen a lot in his years as a Runner. He's ready to buy a piece of property and have a quiet life. Money to be able to do that is the sole reason he escorts Abby's carriage across the heath and to her betrothed, Sir Johnathon Aberley baronet. Samuel can come across at times like a hard man, but when he agrees to take his friend's baby girl to her Aunt, it seems to soften his edges.

There's a lot of adventure in this story--bandits, a baby to deliver, a fair, so this is far from a boring read. I enjoyed seeing how Samuel and Abby had less conflicts and started to get along as their journey progressed. By the time she got to her destination they had started having feelings for each other and baby Emma. I love how this story ended. This is the third in the Bow Street Runners series, but the first I've read. I wasn't lost or confused by not reading the previous books, but now I really want to read them.

This is a clean read (just kissing) as far as romance. There is some violence, and perilous situations.

Thanks to Barbour Publishing, Inc. and NetGalley for my copy. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.

3.5 Stars

Since I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in Michelle Griep’s Bow Street Runners series, I’ve been looking forward to the final book in the trilogy. Griep’s deep dives the middle class during the Regency era gives her writing a unique spin.
But in The Noble Guardian, I didn’t feel like I got that aspect as much as I did in the first couple books. Sure, the main character is going to marry a baronet, but it’s such a small part of the story, it doesn’t give the reader much of a look into the every-day life.

Abby’s character seemed a bit inconsistent to me too. She’s naïve then she’s strong and courageous then she’s naïve again. There’s a disconnect between the person she is while traveling with Samuel through three quarters of the book than she is when she finally gets to the home of her betrothed. Through all of her trials, did she not learn to question everything?

I did like Samuel Thatcher. The many is gruff and puts on a mask of hardness and uncaring, but beneath it all is a good heart, despite his occupation of chasing down the worst of criminals and all that involves. The actual journey across England was another aspect I enjoyed about this book. There was plenty to keep my interest, including sweet little Emma who will most likely steal every reader’s heart.

The romance was another plus in this book as it was not an insta-love kind. Abby’s on her way to get married, Samuel is somewhat put out on having to take her there, yet over the course of the journey, these two come to see and understand each other on a deeper level which leads to respect and then more.

All in all, this particular book by Griep hovers just over the line of average for me as it did not quite meet my expectations.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books 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.

This one gives you all the romantic, swoon worthy sighs mixed with witty and refreshing dialogue between two wonderfully flawed and hard headed characters! Samuel faces danger every day and it is all he can do to keep Abby out of it and keep her safe. Abby just wants her happy ever after! Along the way so much danger abounds and throw in a little surprise! A wonderfully deep and page turning story. I loved this!
Thank you to Netgalley for this. These are my own opinions.

I loved this one! I have read the other books in the trilogy, but you can definitely read this book as a standalone.

Abby Gilbert leaves her tumultuous life at home on journey to her intended's house for her wedding. However, on the way to marry a man she has only met once, she runs into danger and realizes that she needs protection. As it just so happens, the only person that is suitable to offer protection is the mysterious and alluring Captain Samuel Thatcher.

This book combines a captivating plot with a beautiful romance. Abby and Captain Thatcher begin as strangers who can barely tolerate each other, progress to a tentative friendship, and finally form a strong relationship. I loved the romance in this book because it evolved slowly, and the characters became friends first. A romantic relationship has to have a strong foundation, and Abby and Samuel definitely have that.

I had been waiting for this book for a while, and I was not disappointed! I could not put this book down!

Abby has an arranged marriage with one of the most prestigious gentleman bachelors in the land—until highwaymen attack and horse patrol captain Samuel Thatcher arrives just in time. He ends up taking her the rest of the way to her betrothed with a stop along the way to pick up a child he has agreed to deliver to a friends family. A lot of action, excitement, thieves and just the right amount of romance. I may have to read this one again! I was gifted a copy, no review was required. My review is voluntary.

A Cross-Country Trip through Regency England Brings Intrigue, Rogues, and High Adventure

The must-read conclusion to Michelle Griep’s Bow Street Runners Trilogy: Life couldn’t be better for Abigail Gilbert—but it’s been a long time in coming. Having lived with a family who hated her, it’s finally her time for love. Abby sets off on a journey across England to marry one of the most prestigious gentlemen in the land—until highwaymen upset her plans and threaten her life. Horse patrol captain Samuel Thatcher arrives just in time to save Abby. But she’s simply another victim in a job he’s come to despise. Tired of the dark side of humanity, he intends to buy land and retire. Abby pleads with him to escort her for the rest of her journey. He refuses—until she offers him something he desperately needs to achieve his goal. . .money. Delivering her safely will give him more than enough to buy property. So begins an impossible trek for the cynical lawman and the proper lady. Each will be indelibly changed by the time they reach her betrothed, if they don’t kill one another first—or fall in love.



My Thoughts: This was an interesting and well-researched book. Author Michelle Griep once again brings to her readers an exciting read! The storyline is interesting; written in the time period when women did not travel alone, much less in dangerous territory. Abby is a strong character, which has been built by years of abuse from her stepmother. This makes her a very intriguing character for this novel. I enjoyed her character and felt empathy for her in many ways. All the characters make up for a good story in this novel and are not far fetched at all. For those who like historical romances, this is the one for you. It's full of action, romance and real to life instances that make up the storyline in this novel.


Michelle Griep has written another winner.

Loved the story of Abigail and Samuel. He is traveling with her to keep her safe while she is going to her future husband. A lot of danger along the way. Before being hired to travel with her he had found a baby. So they have Emma to care for also.

I love reading historical books. This one is set in early 1800. Things were different but feelings and concerns are the same. How to get from one place to another. How to determine what was wrong and how to treat it.

Loved how both the characters cared so much for the baby. How much they bonded. Read the book to see if they all get to stay together.

I received an advanced copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review. This is my own opinion.

I was immediately sucked into the story. The story has a bit of a Cinderella vibe, as Abigail is leaving her mean stepmother to marry her prince, Sir Jonathan. Along the way, Abigail and Samuel are thrown together. Abigail needs a protector through her journey and the funds she promises would help him retire from his dangerous life. By agreeing to help her on her journey, they end up on a crazy adventure with wonderful twist to the story.