Publishers Weekly
11/02/2020
Griep (The House at the End of the Moor) delivers a charming story about a talented thief, a bumbling constable, and their reluctant partnership. Jackson Forge is rushing to start his first day as constable in 1885 London when he’s pickpocketed by Kit, who is nicknamed “Robin Hood in a Skirt” and lives to help the poor residents of Blackfriar’s Lane by stealing from rich Londoners. Later, Jackson seeks out Kit when he is given the assignment to find cabby Joe Card, who has gone missing. Joe, as it happens, had taken in Kit years before. Kit introduces Jackson to many characters of London’s underworld, who are all reluctant to speak at first but eventually open up under gun-toting Jackson’s strong-arm techniques. Jackson’s strong sense of ethics and deep faith, meanwhile, shatter the lies Kit has long believed about her noble life of thievery. While they may differ in their approach to finding and pursuing leads, the two develop a mutual respect that develops into a predictable yet pleasingly off-kilter romance. Jackson’s eagerness and Kit’s boldness prove to be a perfect match, allowing Griep to explore both the tribulations of Victorian poverty and the powers of salvation. Fans of Kristy Cambron should take a look. (Jan.)
Midwest Book Review - James A. Cox
An impressively original, exceptionally entertaining, deftly scripted, and simply riveting read from first page to last, in the pages of her novel, "The Thief of Blackfriars Lane", author Michelle Griep deftly blends elements of Mystery, Suspense, Romance, and Historical Fiction. Certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Thief of Blackfriars Lane" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.19) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Oasis Audio, 9781640914780, $14.99, CD).
From the Publisher
Griep is such a talent and she shines in The Thief of Blackfriars Lane. Well-told, romantic and clever, this is one you don't want to miss. It will delight you!” –Rachel Hauck, New York Time Bestselling author “The Thief of Blackfriars Lane will take you on a romp through Victorian London, from the black-as-night sewer tunnels to glittering parties at the Lord Mayor’s mansion. With Kit and Jackson as your guides, you’ll be breathless to keep up with their fast-paced wit and clever intrigues. This whip-smart duo sparkles on the page as they right wrongs, fight for the light, and pursue God-given purpose in every life. A vibrant and thoroughly enjoyable ride!” –Jocelyn Green, Christy Award winning author of Shadows of the White City “Come with me to Blackfriars Lane, run the underground rails and sewers, and if you’re the police, just try to keep up! Gosh, this book was a fun, feisty, and female-empowering story. I thoroughly enjoyed the spots of humor, the mystery, and the action. A little bit of Enola Holmes and a lotta fun! You won’t want to miss it!” –Jaime Jo Wright, author of Christy Award-Winning The House on Foster Hill, and Christy Award-Nominated Echoes Among the Stones “A Charles Dickens-like Victorian tale full of intrigue, adventure, and romance. Delightful!” –Morgan L. Busse, author of the award-winning Ravenwood Saga “If there is an it quality to writing Victorian fiction, Michelle Griep has it! Action? Check! Setting? Check! Snappy dialogue? Check, check! Meticulous research meets impeccable story crafting in this fast-paced, many-layered novel. I give it an A-plus!” –Erica Vetsch, author of the Serendipity & Secrets Regency series “An adventure and a half! I’ve never before rooted for a thief, but Michelle Griep has magical storytelling power that will convince you to join her in whatever escapade she’s thought up. Never one to settle for hitting the typical story beats, Griep takes readers on a twisting, turning ride that will surprise even the most avid reader. The unexpected plot and unlikely but dynamic leads pop with the color and life of a Dickens novel, but with a style that is uniquely—and delightfully—Griep’s own.” –Joanna Davidson Politano, author of The Love Note and other Victorian-era mysteries “Take one earnest and well-meaning but slightly bumbling hero matching wits with a smart, nefarious female villain—or is she our heroine in disguise?—and you have the perfect recipe for a delicious romp across (and underneath) Victorian London. I loved Jackson and Kit! A slightly different sort of story for Griep, but her voice is a natural for the setting and era. Too fun to miss!” –Shannon McNear, 2014 RITA® finalist and author of The Rebel Bride and The Blue Cloak “What an absolutely delightful mystery! A fast-paced adventure through the underbelly of Victorian London led by a smart heroine you can’t help but fall in love with. Exceptional research. Characters that sizzle off the page. Highly recommended!” –Abigail Wilson, author of Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey
