Book 1 - 12 Days at Bleakly Manor - Once Upon a Dickens Christmas

Clue meets Survivor in this Victorian-era story in which seven invitees be the last person standing-so to speak-to gain their hearts’ desires (which if different for each character). I loved the descriptive way the author wrote which allowed me to visualize “ancient buildings with rheumy windows” and feel the fog “cold as an embrace from the grim reaper.” Clara and Hunter are well-written complex characters with real life struggles and insecurities. I enjoyed following their journey toward a deeper faith. Despite the large number of characters, each was unique with her or her own voice, and thus I was able to keep track of them. I was surprised at the solution of the mystery, but perhaps I missed some of the clues along the way. I love historical novels that educate me about the era in which they are written, and 12 Days didn’t disappoint. There were a couple of “laugh out loud” moments which lightened the tension. The good news is that this is the first in a series. Dickens fans will especially enjoy the book.

I received a free copy of this book from CelebrateLit Publicity, and a favorable review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.

This was such a fun book! It was very atmospheric, portraying a Victorian Christmas in a slightly creepy mansion. It had an "And then There were None" by Agatha Christie feel as several strangers are brought together under mysterious circumstances with dangers lurking around the corner. 
There were some very fun surprises that I didn't expect. The story is full of colorful, quirky characters, each with a very defined personality. 

I adore atmospheric books and the author was very gifted at creating the setting. I was in the story with the characters, walking the drafty halls of Bleakly Manor and trudging through the woods to gather the yule log. 

This book also explains some Victorian Christmas traditions that I hadn't known about...I found these very interesting, particularly the origins of The Coventry Carol. 

I highly recommend this book...it's a nice change from the typical Christmas stories that are out there.

My Rating: 
I received this book from Celebrate Lit to review. All opinions are my own. 

Written by the talented Michelle Griep, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor is the first book in the Once Upon a Dickens Christmas series. Set during a dreary winter in Victorian England, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor creatively explores the themes of loss, love, redemption, faith, and forgiveness through a diverse cast of entertaining and compelling characters. The well-paced plot, brimming with gothic mystery and eerie intrigue, deftly draws the reader fully into the story. As the mysteries unfold, heartwarming scenes provide a balance to those that are heavy with heartbreak.

Abounding with surprises and unexpected twists, this novel is genuinely captivating and satisfying. It is a well-crafted novel that is uniquely memorable for all the right reasons. Like a classic Christmas movie or a novel by Charles Dickens, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor is a book that should be revisited again and again. I will certainly be placing it on my shelf within easy reach so that I can savor it once again on a cold winter day sometime in the near future as I wait with great expectations for the release of the next book in the series.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review, whether positive or negative, are entirely my own.

12 Days at Bleakly Manor is being compared to Dickens but it felt more like an Agatha Christie mystery to me. A group of seemingly random people have been invited to spend the 12 days of Christmas at Bleakly Manor; a group that includes almost married couple, Clara and Ben. While some normal Christmas-time celebrations are had, mysterious accidents keep happening, leaving one less in the party. The reasoning behind this gathering isn't revealed until the end; and while you may understand the motives, why it was done in such a way was confusing. Why were there accidents where innocent bystanders could get hurt? I enjoyed the romance and atmosphere of the story but the mystery not so much. Overall, a short read that was different than the usual Christmas fiction fare.

The 12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep is a great Christmas read. I love reading books that are holiday themed, and I seek out stories by Michelle Griep, so I greatly enjoyed this book. The book takes place at Bleakly Manor where guests have been invited to the manor with the promise that if they stay the entire 12 days of Christmas, they will be offered something they desperately want. Among those in attendance are Clara and Ben. Clara and Ben know each other well since they were engaged to be married and very much in love. Unfortunately their lives were altered on their wedding day, though neither knows what happened to the other. They have to learn to trust each other again, and believe in second chances. The story weaves in themes of forgiveness, love, second chances, and trusting in God. There are some surprises and 11th hour saves. I highly recommend this enjoyable Christmas book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review.

This is an intriguing book. Set at Christmas time in 1850, we first meet Clara Chapman, a young woman who lives with her elderly aunt as a companion. Nine months earlier, she was left at the altar by her fiance, Ben Lane, and has not heard from him since. When we meet Ben, he is languishing in prison for a crime he did not commit. They both receive a curious invitation to Bleakly Manor, requiring them to stay for twelve nights. If they last, Clara would receive 500 pounds and Ben his freedom. So, unbeknownst to the other, they arrive at Bleakly Manor and meet the other curious guests who have all been promised different things. Clara and Ben are shocked to see each other and both must get past their initial anger, each believing the other betrayed them. The conditions at the manor are bleak and their host curiously absent. "Accidents" befall many of the guests and tensions rise. Ben faces an agonizing decision that affects his future. Who will survive the twelve days of Christmas?

This is a mystery romance with Christian theme lightly placed but not obvious. The mystery side along with sinister intent of one of the visitor takes a little too much of the stage and doesn't seem quite right when the novel ends i.e. why would the "master" of the house would allow the experience to continue given the dire consequences that could occur if the guilty one is let continue. No that did not make sense to me in a this particular novel setting although it would be logical in another setting where noone really is "in charge" or setting the stage. But the pace is fast; there are certainly enjoyable parts of the novel and one is mostly intrigued as to "who is doing it?"

If you received a strange invitation which promised to solve your greatest problem if you would simply attend, would you go?

What begins with a strange invitation only gets more bizarre as it goes. Quirky characters and intrigue make 12 Days at Bleakly Manor a unique tale.

I loved that, as the start of the Once Upon a Dickens Christmas series, the story has a similar feel to that of Charles Dickens’s stories. It’s not simply another heartwarming romance set during the holidays. It is heartwarming, and it is a romance, but in an unusually creative way.

If you’re looking for something different this Christmas, check out 12 Days at Bleakly Manor. It’s a fairly quick read sure to tickle your Dickens-loving heart!

(I received a complimentary copy of this book. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)

London - 1850

Clara Chapman, age 25, is stopping at her friend, Effie’s home to drop off a small Christmas gift for her. Effie had once been her maid but Clara had to let her go when her own circumstances became dire and she had no money. Now, Effie is reduced to working long hours in a factory.

Clara now lives with her ailing aunt Mitchell. Arriving back at her aunt’s, she is surprised to find a man waiting to see her. He gives her an invitation for a 12-day stay at Bleakley Manor. At the end of that time if she is still there, she will be given 500 pounds.

Benjamin Lane is in prison and Clara Chapman is responsible for putting him there. They had once been engaged. Before he could arrive at the church for the wedding, he had been abducted, thrown in prison and charged with stealing the Chapman’s money. He has been told that Clara Chapman filed charges against him. But guards come to take him to the warden who has a Christmas gift for him. There he receives an invitation to Bleakley Manor. Upon arrival, he is told that if he tries to leave before the end of the 12-day stay, he will be shot. But if he stays, he will be given his freedom.

As the other attendees arrive, they are quite a group of strange characters. The manor is cold and the food is very sparse and not tasty at all. As the days pass, things happen that make the people suspicious of each other. However, people are desperate to stick it out until the 12 days are over.

First of all, I have to say that I have not read much of Charles Dickens’ work that this story has been likened to. So, I can honestly say that I found it silly and just not enjoyable. However, I know other readers have enjoyed this book. So, if you are a Charles Dickens fan, I hope you will like this book.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

Reminiscent of an Agatha Christie book, this tale is a quick and moderately enjoyable read. Fans of the movies Murder by Death and Clue may enjoy it as well.

This book started out strong, but about half way through it some of the circumstances and character reasoning no longer worked for me. I didn't feel as strong a connection to the atmosphere or people in the second half of the book. Characters and situations became too predictable, and the ending was only moderately satisfying and believable. An interesting twist happens, but I never felt like that was fully fleshed out.

This was still a light and somewhat enjoyable read that I think others may enjoy. The cover design and packaging were beautifully appropriate to the genre of the book. Overall, I would give this story 3.5 stars.

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

Victorian themed mystery, romance set in a mysterious English mansion- what else could one want? Well-written, fast moving, this short novel with short chapters is fun and moving.

Clara invited by the promise of financial reward along with other guests to stay 12 days in Bleakly manor(shades of Bleak House?), finds herself face to face with the man she has come to hate- her past love who apparently was a thief and scoundrel, ruining her family. Recently release from horrid conditions in prison with the ultimatum that he remain at this house, he too, is bitter and hateful. Seeing her again brings out the worse and perhaps the best of his memories. but neither one wants to be with the other. As they 'celebrate' the Christmas holiday with different tasks, set up by their mysterious host, things start happening that threaten their safety, relationships and beliefs.

Written by a Christian, anglophile author, this book offers history into old, Christmas traditions while providing a captivating tale.

I have never read Charles Dickens before so I guess I was in for a little surprise. I have seen his books but had never really thought about reading one.
This book kept me interested in the story for sure. A little intrigue, mystery and romance kept the story moving right along.
Some of the characters were so funny sometimes and just plain dangerous at other times. I really felt the emotions of each character as they tried to win the contest. The ending at Bleakly Manor surprised me for sure. I couldn’t figure out “whodunnit”.
I really felt for Ben and Clara as they went through so much. Would they get to stay at the Manor the whole 12 Days? Who won? I encourage you to read this story to find out. I am recommending that you read this rare treat.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

I absolutely LOVE this book. I know, that is strong wording, but it's true. I was hooked as soon as met Miss Scurry and her pet mice. I love how she has them trained. This book is full of characters and they each have been summoned to stay for twelve days. The one who sticks it out wins. They were all offered different incentives, including Clara, and her ex-fiance. The man who stood her up at the altar, and until now, she had no idea why. The Christian themes are in place, but not in the forefront where it overrides the story. Instead, it supports characters and aids in the mystery that needs to be solved.

I really look forward to another book by this author and have followed Griep so that I get updates about future books.

My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My review is my own, left of my own free will.

I had never read anything by Michelle Griep, nor do I usually read mysteries and have never read anything by Charles Dickens. Having said that, I enjoyed everything about this book from the setting of Bleakly Manor to the unusual names of her quirky characters to the plot that kept me guessing and proved my guesses wrong with an ending that was a total surprise! In describing Michelle's writing style, I can honestly say I felt as if I too spent 12 Days at Bleakly Manor. I felt the chill of the dank, drafty manor and could almost taste the awful food. While it is more of a mystery than a Christmas book, it could be read and enjoyed at any time of the year. It was THE book that was able to pull me out of a l-o-n-g "reading funk." And I learned that it is the first book in a new series with others still to be written! The next book I pick up will be another Michelle Griep book!

This was an interesting book. It reminded me of a murder mystery dinner or a game of Clue. Or think of it as a Dickensian-era game of Survivor. A varied cast of characters is brought together to see who will win by staying for the duration of the Christmas season.

The book itself is pleasantly decorated. The chapters are short, and the story moves along briskly, yet is a full story and not rushed. The characters were certainly quirky, and not all were likable, which helped give the story its depth.

For those who love a setting at the time of Charles Dickens, or who love Christmas books, or both, this is a book you'll want to read!

I received a copy of this book from the author, through Celebrate Lit, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.

As a fan of both Christmas books and mysteries, I was excited to read this new book that fits both of these categories. 12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep can be called a Dickens-style cozy mystery set in 1851. A group of strangers are invited to stay at Bleakly Manor for 12 days. Mysteries abound, including who invited them all and where their host is. Clara Chapman is the main character, a young girl who recently lost everything, from her family’s money to her fiancé. She is surprised to find her fiancé among the manor’s guests. Things quickly become dangerous and Clara must join forces with her ex-fiancé to solve the mystery and stay safe. This book was a fun, engaging read and I look forward to reading more books from this author. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Everything about this book appealed to me when I first saw complimentary advanced reader copies of it being offered - I love the cover and I love a good historical mystery. I didn't even see the part about it being the first book in a new series, Once Upon a Dickens Christmas. I'm actually kind of glad I missed that part because I might have decided not to read it because I haven't actually read very many Dickens books, and none since high school which was a very long time ago! 

But I would have had nothing to worry about as this book stands alone perfectly well. The author has created amazing characters and a clever and mysterious plot line. I enjoyed reading it so much and had a very hard time putting it down because I just had to know what was going to happen!

This book brings a mystery set during the 12 days of Christmas at a somewhat enigmatic mansion where a group of people have been invited for a reward if they spend the 12 days there. Among them is Clara who was stood up at the altar and who now lives an impoverished life and also her ex fiancé who had been imprisoned on false charges.

Besides the inscrutability of the landlord there is the secrecy of who sent the invitation, why and the strange events that begin to occur.
It’s an engrossing mystery in the inimitable style of a Dicken Christmas story.

I absolutely loved everything about this book, even the cover and pages were made to draw you into the 1800's!
This Christmas book set in the 1800's, caught me right from the beginning as the characters are invited to stay for 12 days at Bleakly Manor by someone they do not know, and are promised a prize that is very enticing for each of them. The only problem is, only one of them can win the prize and to get to receive their prize, they must endure to the end. Set at Christmas with mystery, suspense, and a little romance, this story is a great addition to add to your Christmas reading this year.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest opinion of this book.

What a great, clever little read! Twelve Days at Bleakly Manor is best described as a mix between Charles Dickens and Agatha Christie. The story is told through the point of view of Clara and Ben, former lovers who were separated at the altar before taking their vows and each one blaming the other for being abandoned. They, and along with other fascinating and quirky characters, receive secret invitations to spend the twelve days of Christmas at Bleakly Manor with a reward for them if they are able to remain there the full twelve days. What transpires are mysterious happenings, life threatening accidents, and a great deal of intrigue and mystery.

A splendid whodunnit with plenty of surprises and a great love story intertwined! Definitely worth reading at any time of the year!

Okay, right off let me say this is different than any Christmas book I have read. And that’s not a bad thing! Full of twists and turns, it will keep you guessing to the end. Plus it includes a sweet romance.

The characters are fairly well developed. I would have liked to have gotten to know them a bit better, but Griep did very well considering it is a novella. She did give us a lot of description of the manor, and other places the characters went.

If you enjoy Victorian England, Agatha Christie, and Charles Dickens, you will enjoy 12 Days at Bleakly Manor. I appreciated the historical notes at the end and look forward to Book 2.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

This is a well written book that keeps the reader in suspense until the final few pages. The characters introduced in the first few chapters, are described in detail so that the reader knows who is who and a little about their desires. The story line poses a challenge to each character to stay 12 days in an old manor. At the end of the 12 days a reward would be given that fulfilled the one desire about everything else. Throughout the stay the visitors face numerous problems, including fire, thievery, murder, and mayhem. Who would survive and who would win the promised reward? Would the reward come in the expected manner? Who is behind the challenge? The reader will have all these questions, but have to wait until the end of the book for the surprising answers.

The cover made me think of Charles Dickens type of stories. So I was excited to read this Christmas tale of intrigue, love and murder. It was a delight to read and I was not disappointed. It left me guessing and surprised by the ending.

Things aren't always what they seem.
Clara and the guests of Bleakly Manor
all wanted something and they believed that staying at the Manor would grant them their wishes.

Christmas at Bleakly Manor gave them much more than what they wished for.

I loved taking a step back in time reading this book. Michelle Griep gave me an early Christmas gift.

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

Wow, what a refreshingly unique tale of mystery and romance set over the holidays in 1850's, England! I enjoyed following this group of colorful characters through the Twelve Days of Christmas in the manor house, each with their own motivation for being there. A bit of other classic tales cleverly mixed in gave it an authentic flavor; one slice Dickens, Christie and a bit of Dumas. Lyrical, descriptive writing, with quotable lines added to the reading pleasure, plus some action. A choice between seeking revenge and holding onto bitterness, versus choosing to love and forgive, was a prominent theme.

Recommend to readers who enjoy historical mystery and clean romance, with some faith.

(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)

This book was very interesting. It was full of mystery and intrigue and I never knew what was going to happen next. I had an immediate suspect for all the incidents at the manor, but I quickly shifted my suspicions and they turned out to be correct. I don't think it was easy to figure out, I just made a lucky guess. As all the pieces started to fall into place, I was excited to finally find out what was going on just like Ben and Clara. I liked the faith thread woven through the story and the growth that the main characters exhibited. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received.

I have not read many Dickens books nor Agatha Christy books. However, the title and cover intrigued me. This brings together a quaint and quirky cast of characters in a Victorian home without a host. Who sent the mysterious invitations? Who will last until the end? I will admit that I had a hard time getting into the book. Some of the quirks of the characters were hard to imagine. The story focuses on Clara and Ben. Clara has had a hard year in that she lost her family and her fortune and her fiancé. Ben lost his whole life by being locked up for a crime he didn't commit. Or did he? As the days before Christmas count down, we see these characters compete for the prize. I received a copy from Netgalley. The review was not required.

As a number of strangers receive invitations to spend the Twelve Days of Christmas at Bleakly Manor by an unknown host, Michelle Griep delivers a holiday-themed story full of cozy mystery, drama, and even romance. In some ways, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor reminded me of both Clue and And Then There Were None, and I so enjoyed guessing at what would happen next. It’s a well-plotted story with a distinctly classic feel, and any reader in need of a quick and enjoyable Christmas read will not be disappointed with this one. I recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of 12 Days at Bleakly Manor from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All the opinions I have expressed are my own.

Know that in reading this, you will find spoilers. I will try to keep the spoilers to one sections. First, I like the idea of the book. For the most part, I like the characters of the book. The book mostly centers around former to be married couple Clara and Ben and how they were wronged on their wedding day and the events that followed that wronging. Clara has pretty much been disowned by society and Ben has been in prison. These are not spoilers, they just set up the story. Offered redemption at a life once had, they must spend 12 days at Bleakly manor to receive their "prize". Here we meet the rest of the characters. It is here that I find some fault with this book. I will get into that in the spoiler section. The book zips along, possibly too fast, and we find ourselves at the end. There really isn't a cliff hanger but an opening to a possibility for further story telling. Okay, nitpicky things! BEWARE OF SPOILERS!!!!! Reading the book, I found myself questioning if the author was trying to interject religion in the story. Both Clara and Ben say several times "Why God" or thank God. I have no problem with this. Where I was left confused was if they were sincere in their talkings with God or if it was just a tick. Other characters had saying that were a tick, so it wasn't until I read the author thanks Jesus that I came to the conclusion that she in fact meant these callings to God as a fact, not just a saying. Speaking of sayings and word usage, some of the sayings and words drove me crazy. The constant comment about tummy (instead of stomach, gut, ect) was just weird to me, drove me crazy, and for some reason took me out of the story every time. The use of the La! as a sentence made sense when Pretents used it because she was French, but then everyone started saying. Though talking about Pretents, I liked her. She felt, to me, the most authentic of the supporting characters. Mr. Tallgrass constant "Oy me rumpus!" was beyond annoying. As far as the story itself, to me everything happened way too fast and not fleshed out enough. Ben and Clara make amends way too quickly. And though we have hints at Clara's suffering, it is more focused on Ben's suffering (even though that is short lived as well). You never really feel the hurt that Clara endured though the whole ordeal. Our supporting cast is never really given a true plot line in which to flourish. We know that they are all there with the promise of a prize and but we're never really given a thorough background as to why each character is the way each character is. We never really learn why Miss Scurry is in the state that she is in and why she has the pets she does. We never really learn Mr. Minnow's backstory at all. There are things that are hinted about Pretents, but never truly explored. We somewhat have a sense of Tallgrass' situation, but I wanted to know more about Jilly. And then there was Pocket. His plot twist was the most odd and out of nowhere part of the whole story. I still don't know what to make of it. And then in the end, we have our hero and heroine who will later be used for the final twist (an interesting twist as it is). So, yes, I liked the skeleton of this story but wanted more flesh on the bones. But it is worth reading. Enjoy!

When I first started reading this story, I was so excited to read a Christmas tale. Little did I realize how fun it would be to read. A story of love, laughs, and mystery all tangled into one. I do not normally read mysteries, but this one was so enjoyable! Each character in the story had an interesting background with their tale to tell. I loved Clara. Her story made it so I did not want to put the book down.

If you love the Victorian Era, love, mysteries, or just a cute fun story, I highly recommend this one. Once you get started, it captures you and the need to see what happens.

*Please note I received a copy of this book for an exchange for an honest review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

This is a short quick novella. I rarely thoroughly enjoy novellas as I did this one! There is so much mystery, suspense , intrigue, and romance packed into the pages of this enjoyable read. I’ve had it for a while, but I wanted to wait until closer to Christmas to read and review.

If you like novellas and shorter stories,I highly recommend this read. Great and interesting characters, much is hidden to be revealed at just the right time, and romance blossoms as well. Truly, this book is so well done considering the size...less than 200 pages. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable mystery read so go get it!!

I received this book from the publisher . All opinions are my own.

Michelle Griep spins an intriguing and very entertaining tale in 12 DAYS AT BLEAKLY MANOR. The English 1851 setting, and an unlikely small group of people spending twelve days at Christmas time together in an enormous mansion felt like one of Agatha Christie's trains of thought, as the mysterious story unfolds with many surprises along the way. The main two characters, Clara Chapman and Benjamin Lane find much more than they ever expected when they accepted their strange invitations. This is a super-interesting read with nary a dull page, and a rewarding conclusion. I loved it. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a 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.

This is Romance Suspense took place in the Victorian era 1800s in England. It is a fast paced historical fiction with so many twist and turns, false starts, who-done-it, and totally unexpected out-comes. This page turner takes place at Bleakly Manor over Christmas holidays with invited guest but no host. I rooted for Clara and Ben. Will they have a second chance at love or is the danger too great?

I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. 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.

Really well done! Michelle Griep is an author I'm familiar with and like, and this book didn't disappoint. It's a short book, but that's ok because it's not full of boring filler, the characters are good and well fleshed out, though having read her book before this heroine seems to be very similar to the last one she wrote, and I do wish she would make them a little stronger with less daddy issues, but that aside I really loved this book! It was well paced, cute, charming and had a lovely romance and a very satisfying ending! Also, she has lovely prose and paints descriptions, settings and mood very well so it is always a pleasure to read her work. Highly recommended!

12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep

This was the first book I’ve read by Michelle and I very much enjoyed it. Many characters to meet that all come together in Bleakly Manor for the 12 days of Christmas. The story keeps the suspense going as far as who the mysterious Manor owner is, and who could be behind the mishaps throughout the story. Well worth the read, with answers to tie up everything at the end. I spent the whole book trying to figure out who those answers, lol.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

What a delightful and intriguing story Michelle Griep brought to life! 12 Days at Bleakly Manor was a redemption, mystery, love, suspense, and humorous tale all rolled into one unique ball. I loved the characters- even the antagonists! Each were well rounded and given enough time to develop. I won't give away the mystery but I will say it was intriguing enough that I read the whole book in one sitting...couldn't put it down! And even though this was an advance copy with editing not finished, the writing and editing was superb! The only thing I wish was that the book was longer. I didn't want to give up the characters. I look forward to future work by Ms. Griep.

Christmas is nearly upon us…and yes, 4 months away means nearly in my book!!…and Michelle Griep is gifting her readers with a gloriously comedic Victorian theater dinner-esque novel wrapped with murder, mystery, and a hint of chocolate.

12 Days at Bleakly Manor is all sorts of intrigue and fun, with a dash of nefarious deeds and all the makings of a page turner. Lovers of Charles Dickinson and Agatha Christie will find themselves quite pleased with Griep’s homage to Bleak House and And Then There Were None with the unexpected twists, robust characters, and cheery Christmas celebrations. I highly recommend buying this book!

This book has a little something for everyone....romance, intrigue, mystery, humor. The author wrote such larger-than-life characters that will keep you turning the pages just to see what they do! I loved Bleak House, and this book pays it a great tribute. The circumstances that bring these individuals together are so intriguing, you have to know more. I also really enjoyed learning about the Christmas traditions back then, and the appendix of terms was really interesting!

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

This book was so fun!! It started off with getting to know they 2 main characters and then kinda went into this almost who done it story. No one was murdered but that wasn't for lack of someone trying.

I loved the mystery aspect of it....who invited them to bleakly manor and who was the one who was trying to slowly get people who were there to leave for one reason or another.

I do want to know where the other characters came from but maybe we will find out in the next book and if not it's not that big of a deal
I received a copy of this free in exchange for my honest review

This charming book is everything you want to read at Christmas. Michelle Griep spins a magical tale that draws you in the moment the book is open. Her characters are real and touch your heart with their stories. I love each of Michelle's books and am a huge fan of her writing. This book is just what I needed! It was romantic and mysterious and gave me a wonderful break from the hectic schedule of preparing for the holidays. I would definately recommend this book to anyone who loves a heart warming Christmas tale. "I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."

If you were promised one thousand pounds to stay at a Victorian mansion for 12 days, would you do it?

This was an enjoyable and heartwarming read for the holiday season. A bit of a mystery, a bit of romance, eccentric characters and a happy ending are in store for readers.

If you enjoy Agatha Christie novels, Charles Dickens, The 12 Days of Christmas and a good game of Clue, you will enjoy this short novel by Michelle Griep.

My thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. and Shiloh Run Press for allowing me to read an advance copy and give my honest review.

“12 Days at Bleakly Manor” is an entertaining tale with plenty of mystery, intrigue and love gone wrong, a story of second chances. Michelle Griep’s quick story launch from the first page grabbed my attention that remained to the end. 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, told in Charles Dickens’ style, is full of quirky characters, love & redemption, fraud & reconciliation. Character personalities are a hoot in themselves.
Great plot, great prose, I recommend this book and give it 5 stars. What a fantastic way to start a new series of fictional accounts of Charles Dickens’ famed books.
Thank you, Michelle Griep for providing me with a review copy of “12 Days at Bleakly Manor”. I was not required to write a positive review, I receive no compensation, and it was my choice to write this review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

I loved this story. A wonderful mystery with great characters. It reminded me a bit of Agatha Christie and also the movie Clue. I loved the glimpse of Christmas in the mid-1800s. It is a little hard to describe everything I liked about the book without giving away too much of the plot, but I loved the premise and thought it was very well written. There was a bit of surprise revelation at the end of the book, too. I would recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a short, but good read. 12 days at Bleakly Manor captured my attention from the first page. I love the mixture of mystery, romance, and history in the book. I loved the main character Clara. She is so realistic and likable. I highly recommend this book. You will be glad you read it. The book has a wonderful message of hope and second chances.

This would make a great Christmas gift too!

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

“I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.” Even though this was not my usual type of reading material the title caught my eye and sounded quite mysterious! “12 Days at Bleakly Manor” was just that mysterious!
An unusual mystery where the characters are required to stay in a mysterious cold manor, a mysterious lion head with eyes that are watching you, and the person who is able to stay all 12 days ends up with a reward they are wanting. Each character has their own hopes for their rewards.
Not only a story of mystery but of love, romance, danger, and patience. It was fun to see which character would last until the 12th day and receive their reward! Better yet it would be so much fun to read each day during Christmastide which begins Christmas Eve and ends January 5th and extend the suspense for those 12 long days!

What a totally charming book - full of twists and turns and interesting characters. Maybe I read too fast because it was hard to put down - but I found a few of the characters a bit hard to follow. But the author made up for it quite well with the story's ending. CONGRATULATIONS are due all the way around - to the author for excellent writing, to the editor (IF one was needed!); and especially to Barbour for giving the presentation to this delightful book that it deserves. I do believe I will cross-stitch the lovely saying on page 166 ❤️

12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep is set in the Dickensonian era and is full of mystery, mayhem and romance at every turn. The characters are delightful and at times quite quirky within a story that is engagingly delightful. All in all, an enjoyable Christmas time read!

I received this book for free. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own. Thank you to Ms. Griep, Shiloh Run Press, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Fans of historical mysteries should welcome this series. It's a realistic portrayal of Victorian England spiced with humor and intrigue. Some characters are quirky enough to almost go beyond believabity, but the two main characters - Clara and Ben - quickly work their way into the reader's heart. I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book! Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for overnight Ccess before publication.

Wonderful Christmas book! This is the first book I have read by this author and I can't wait for more! If you like a good mystery set in England this is the book for you! Clara's life has been hard. Starting with being left at the altar. She has to live with a relative because she has no money. She then receives an invitation to spend 12 days at an English manor and if she does she will receive 500 pounds. Money that she needs very badly.Enter the fiance that left her at the alter and has been through his own set of trial since he left her at the altar. I am not going to give away what happens! You will just have to read it yourself! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

12 Days at Bleakly Manor is an atmospheric tale that intrigues and entertains! I enjoyed the cast of characters with their myriad of eccentricities and delighted in the historical tidbits and Christmas traditions that were woven through the story. Griep’s writing is cleverly crafted and vividly descriptive, and I look forward to reading more!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

I loved the story . Great plot and well developed characters. was great cause I didn't guess who it was that done it. Love it when the author keeps me guessing and turning pages. This is book one in Once upon a Dickens Christmas series. I'm looking forward to book 2. What is Christmas really about I think the guest staying at the manor are about to find out! First book I have read by Michelle but looking forward to more.