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A Heart Deceived
Miri Brayden teeters on a razor's edge between placating and enraging her brother, whom she depends upon for support. Yet if his anger is unleashed, so is his madness. Miri must keep his descent into lunacy a secret, or he'll be committed to an asylum—and she'll be sent to the poorhouse.
Ethan Goodwin has been on the run all of his life—from family, from the law ... from God. After a heart-changing encounter with the gritty Reverend John Newton, Ethan would like nothing more than to become a man of integrity—an impossible feat for an opium addict charged with murder.
When Ethan shows up on Miri's doorstep, her balancing act falls to pieces. Both Ethan and Miri are caught in a web of lies and deceit—fallacies that land Ethan in prison and Miri in the asylum with her brother. Only the truth will set them free.
Ethan Goodwin has been on the run all of his life—from family, from the law ... from God. After a heart-changing encounter with the gritty Reverend John Newton, Ethan would like nothing more than to become a man of integrity—an impossible feat for an opium addict charged with murder.
When Ethan shows up on Miri's doorstep, her balancing act falls to pieces. Both Ethan and Miri are caught in a web of lies and deceit—fallacies that land Ethan in prison and Miri in the asylum with her brother. Only the truth will set them free.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2013
106 people are currently reading
1319 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Griep
42 books2,614 followersI hear voices. Loud. Incessant. And very real. Which basically gives me two options: choke back massive amounts of Prozac or write fiction. I chose the latter. Way cheaper. I've been writing since I discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. I seek to glorify God in all that I write...except for that graffiti phase I went through as a teenager. Oops. Did I say that out loud?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
May 8, 2013
Honestly, does any any author ever give their book less?
October 13, 2014
Whenever I pick up a book by Michelle Griep, I know I'm in for fantastic imagery, sensory-rich setting, metaphors I'll wish I'd thought of, plot twists and turns that keep me guessing--and last but not least--memorable characters. Can I say this without being weird? I loved the villain! I mean, yeah, Nigel was the bad guy, but he had personality plus, and a way of stealing the stage, I guess. He was humorous in his thoughts and interactions with others, and--I don't know--I just found myself smiling when his POV popped up. (Seriously, I'm not weird.)
I don't mean to imply that the hero and heroine weren't lovable and interesting. Miri maintains a quiet strength as she struggles to keep her brother's descent into madness a secret from the rectory workers and townspeople of Deverell Downs, and vacillates between love and hate for the man as he is overbearing and very cruel to her, and yet the only person standing in between her and a bleak future in the poor house. And the hero, Ethan, though he has good intentions and a desire for change, his battle with an opium addiction leads him into a nightmarish existence dependent on the one person who has every right to refuse to aid him, and would, if they knew his secrets. I loved his magic tricks!
A Heart Deceived is a time machine to the crossroad years between the 18th and 19th centuries, and I just grinned and soaked it in. Carriages splashing puddles, creaking ship masts, bed curtains. :-) It's hard to write 18th century speech without slipping into unoriginal and boring--come on, now, let's be real, it is--but the author proves that not only it can be easy to read, it can be colorful and unique to each character too. I've studied the 18th century extensively, and wondered if the portrayal of criminal prosecution leaned more toward the mid 19th century. But I'm no expert on the subject, and I believe the author did a fantastic job with her interpretation of the justice system.
It was a bit of work to get up to the quarter mark, but I expected it since I dived into this book with memories of reading slam, bang, time-travel beginnings by this author. ;-) In fact, I'm not sure why I wasn't grabbed from the first, since there is plenty going on Miri and Ethan's lives, but once I got momentum, I never lost interest and was completely delighted with the darker Charlotte Bronte style. The plot had an unknown, shrouded-in-mist feel to it, and that was part of its charm for me. Yes, I'm a big on structured plots, but I believe the author managed the best of both worlds in this one. I had a hunch of where she'd take the story as the plot points unfolded, but I wasn't completely sure, and had lots of fun guessing. Boy, did I get nervous toward the end, and kudos to the author for such a poignant scene at the hero's low point.
An engaging story that aptly demonstrates the difference between hearts sincere and humble toward God, and those deceived and blinded by pride. A treat to read, and I look forward to reading more by Michelle Griep.
I don't mean to imply that the hero and heroine weren't lovable and interesting. Miri maintains a quiet strength as she struggles to keep her brother's descent into madness a secret from the rectory workers and townspeople of Deverell Downs, and vacillates between love and hate for the man as he is overbearing and very cruel to her, and yet the only person standing in between her and a bleak future in the poor house. And the hero, Ethan, though he has good intentions and a desire for change, his battle with an opium addiction leads him into a nightmarish existence dependent on the one person who has every right to refuse to aid him, and would, if they knew his secrets. I loved his magic tricks!
A Heart Deceived is a time machine to the crossroad years between the 18th and 19th centuries, and I just grinned and soaked it in. Carriages splashing puddles, creaking ship masts, bed curtains. :-) It's hard to write 18th century speech without slipping into unoriginal and boring--come on, now, let's be real, it is--but the author proves that not only it can be easy to read, it can be colorful and unique to each character too. I've studied the 18th century extensively, and wondered if the portrayal of criminal prosecution leaned more toward the mid 19th century. But I'm no expert on the subject, and I believe the author did a fantastic job with her interpretation of the justice system.
It was a bit of work to get up to the quarter mark, but I expected it since I dived into this book with memories of reading slam, bang, time-travel beginnings by this author. ;-) In fact, I'm not sure why I wasn't grabbed from the first, since there is plenty going on Miri and Ethan's lives, but once I got momentum, I never lost interest and was completely delighted with the darker Charlotte Bronte style. The plot had an unknown, shrouded-in-mist feel to it, and that was part of its charm for me. Yes, I'm a big on structured plots, but I believe the author managed the best of both worlds in this one. I had a hunch of where she'd take the story as the plot points unfolded, but I wasn't completely sure, and had lots of fun guessing. Boy, did I get nervous toward the end, and kudos to the author for such a poignant scene at the hero's low point.
An engaging story that aptly demonstrates the difference between hearts sincere and humble toward God, and those deceived and blinded by pride. A treat to read, and I look forward to reading more by Michelle Griep.
Want to read
July 9, 202099 cents today! I'd read anything by this author, even though this book description sounds pretty dark. I'm telling myself that this may have a Jane Eyre feel.
August 28, 2017
This was so very different from other Christian romances that I find it hard to even put it in the same category. It addressed a much darker variety of topics than one might see in a Christian romance as well from murder to drugs and alcohol, violence and even physical desires (have no fear, it's a clean romance).
Miri and Ethan were also some of the most feeling and REAL characters I've met through Christian fiction as well and I loved both of them.
Miri is approaching spinsterhood and is tasked with the heavy burden of hiding her brother's ever failing sanity and often finds herself questioning her loyalty from one moment to the next but not without reason. I found nothing flighty in her at all.
The start of Ethan's story had me worried at the beginning that it was going to be an overbearing and over-exerted spiritual tale that I often find exhausting but it didn't turn out that way at all.
The book came to a staggering climax when I had only barely passed the half-way part of the book and that also concerned me but again, surprised me with a deepening of the story rather than a feeling of dragging it out.
It was equal parts passion and purity that I found refreshing. Wanting to do what's right and fighting that internal battle to give in to desire and revenge are something that every feeling person can relate to at one point or another in their life.
I would definitely read again a novel from this author.
Miri and Ethan were also some of the most feeling and REAL characters I've met through Christian fiction as well and I loved both of them.
Miri is approaching spinsterhood and is tasked with the heavy burden of hiding her brother's ever failing sanity and often finds herself questioning her loyalty from one moment to the next but not without reason. I found nothing flighty in her at all.
The start of Ethan's story had me worried at the beginning that it was going to be an overbearing and over-exerted spiritual tale that I often find exhausting but it didn't turn out that way at all.
The book came to a staggering climax when I had only barely passed the half-way part of the book and that also concerned me but again, surprised me with a deepening of the story rather than a feeling of dragging it out.
It was equal parts passion and purity that I found refreshing. Wanting to do what's right and fighting that internal battle to give in to desire and revenge are something that every feeling person can relate to at one point or another in their life.
I would definitely read again a novel from this author.
October 22, 2018
I have not met a Michelle Griep story that I haven't loved! A Heart Deceived was no exception. What stays with me are the main characters Miri and Ethan and their search for home, love and redemption, which included experiences of sad places like prisons and asylums in late 1700 London. Michelle Griep writes so well, that you can imagine what life must have been like. That is my favorite thing about well-written historical fiction, the story transports you to another time and place. Well done! My favorite line is: "Other than his madness, Will's death, and the vagabond in the garden shed, she didn't have a care in the world."
September 14, 2023
3.5 🌟
📖 initially I wasn't sure about this one. I felt like the dialogue was a little too modern and the older brothers descent into madness came across as... I don't know... awkward at first?
❤️ The main characters' development was great. Our hero especially grows significantly. I loved the cameo appearances of John Newton as his mentor and spiritual father.
✝️ I love the redemptive arc in the storyline. Both characters go through traumatic experiences in which they are completely stripped of their worth, their rights, and everything they are as people. They emerge from that death to self as stronger versions of themselves and in a much better place. I thought that aspect of the story was nicely done.
📖 initially I wasn't sure about this one. I felt like the dialogue was a little too modern and the older brothers descent into madness came across as... I don't know... awkward at first?
❤️ The main characters' development was great. Our hero especially grows significantly. I loved the cameo appearances of John Newton as his mentor and spiritual father.
✝️ I love the redemptive arc in the storyline. Both characters go through traumatic experiences in which they are completely stripped of their worth, their rights, and everything they are as people. They emerge from that death to self as stronger versions of themselves and in a much better place. I thought that aspect of the story was nicely done.
August 8, 2015
Reading "A Heart Deceived" was like embarking on a treasure hunt; finding gems hidden deep within its pages, precious nuggets of truth and inspiration where least expected, and discovering characters whose lasting value had been buried under layers of sediment after experiencing grotesque and unsavory experiences. When the lives of a redeemed reprobate and lovely sister of a deranged interim vicar coincide, a story erupts that exudes mystery, mayhem, and highly unlikely romance.
It is 1795 in Bedfordshire, England and Miriall Brayden is hideously trapped in a rectory with her brother Roland, whose sanity is precariously hanging by a thread . Mourning the whereabouts of her younger brother, she is surprised one evening when a total stranger, sick and near death arrives at the back door, knowing her name and that of her missing brother. While innocently bestowing kindness, refuge and nourishment, Miri is inextricably drawn to the man, whose speech and mannerisms are that of a gentleman, but whose appearance is likened to someone who has lived a cruel existence on city streets.
"God works powerfully lad, but for the most part gradually and gently"; the Reverend John Newton's prophetic words to Ethan Goodwin. After Ethan experiences tragedy and finds forgiveness through salvation, he flees London desperate to find Will Brayden's sister. Never mind that his friend failed to mention that Miri was breathtakingly beautiful, wore a head of riotous curls, had porcelain smooth skin, or spoke words of kindness like an angel. Over time however, nothing at this rectory is as it seems. When Ethan's past comes knocking at the door and Roland Brayden is accused of unmentionable acts, Miri finds herself caught in a tight web of mystery and deceit which threatens her very existence and that of her newfound faith.
"Sometimes faith is a moment-by-moment thing"; Ethan's words to Miri just before their love and their future is nearly extinguished. What will it take to bring all things into the light of discovery? Michelle Griep has written an extraordinary story which deserves to be savored and quite possibly read over and over and over again.
It is 1795 in Bedfordshire, England and Miriall Brayden is hideously trapped in a rectory with her brother Roland, whose sanity is precariously hanging by a thread . Mourning the whereabouts of her younger brother, she is surprised one evening when a total stranger, sick and near death arrives at the back door, knowing her name and that of her missing brother. While innocently bestowing kindness, refuge and nourishment, Miri is inextricably drawn to the man, whose speech and mannerisms are that of a gentleman, but whose appearance is likened to someone who has lived a cruel existence on city streets.
"God works powerfully lad, but for the most part gradually and gently"; the Reverend John Newton's prophetic words to Ethan Goodwin. After Ethan experiences tragedy and finds forgiveness through salvation, he flees London desperate to find Will Brayden's sister. Never mind that his friend failed to mention that Miri was breathtakingly beautiful, wore a head of riotous curls, had porcelain smooth skin, or spoke words of kindness like an angel. Over time however, nothing at this rectory is as it seems. When Ethan's past comes knocking at the door and Roland Brayden is accused of unmentionable acts, Miri finds herself caught in a tight web of mystery and deceit which threatens her very existence and that of her newfound faith.
"Sometimes faith is a moment-by-moment thing"; Ethan's words to Miri just before their love and their future is nearly extinguished. What will it take to bring all things into the light of discovery? Michelle Griep has written an extraordinary story which deserves to be savored and quite possibly read over and over and over again.
August 3, 2019
An Excellent. Heartwarming Read
The story is charming and endearing, the characters are well-defined and real, and the power of faith is a strong and encouraging message throughout the book. I am so very glad that I read this encouraging and beautifully written story.
The story is charming and endearing, the characters are well-defined and real, and the power of faith is a strong and encouraging message throughout the book. I am so very glad that I read this encouraging and beautifully written story.
August 3, 2016
16+ for adult and dark themes.
I received this book from the author a few years back. I've started it several times, but this is the first time I've managed to read it all the way through.
DARK is the word I'd use to describe A Heart Deceived. Think Charles Dickens. Think Bleak House, Nicholas Nickleby, and David Copperfield all rolled into one. Think of a time in English history that was very morbid, disease-ridden, superstitious, and godless. Think of all that, then add a touch of grace, John Newton, and a faint glimmer of hope.
The synopsis speaks for itself. There is no need to add to it. Read it, look at the cover, and you'll get the feel for the book.
This book gets four stars because of Michelle Griep's incredible attention to detail, historical accuracy, and tremendous ability to capture all of the senses in her word-weaving. You'll feel the pain, smell the filth, experience the darkness as you read. I was impressed by her knowledge of often little-known historical details.
The story in itself is a generally sad one, full of intrigue, a murder (?), all of the horrors of the time period, and the general ill effects of a godless society. Hope does break forth from time to time, but the light is far and few between the storm clouds. Expect to be intrigued and mystified, but still saddened and left moody or even depressed. 98% of the characters are downright creepy, unlovable, and wicked. The good ones are good, but understandable and very human (which I like).
I personally would have liked to see more focus on Christ and the gospel. Hope in God is there, but from a vague, almost ecumenical standpoint. This, perhaps, is perhaps because the author wishes to appeal to a wide variety of readers.
The bad do get their deserts, hope does shine forth to conquer, and the ending left me satisfied and warmed after the bleakness of the story. Warnings for sexual references (a nightmare, a man's callous remarks), violence, drugs (opium), and all of the godlessness that was known to that period in England's history.
Recommended for historical fiction fans.
I received this book from the author a few years back. I've started it several times, but this is the first time I've managed to read it all the way through.
DARK is the word I'd use to describe A Heart Deceived. Think Charles Dickens. Think Bleak House, Nicholas Nickleby, and David Copperfield all rolled into one. Think of a time in English history that was very morbid, disease-ridden, superstitious, and godless. Think of all that, then add a touch of grace, John Newton, and a faint glimmer of hope.
The synopsis speaks for itself. There is no need to add to it. Read it, look at the cover, and you'll get the feel for the book.
This book gets four stars because of Michelle Griep's incredible attention to detail, historical accuracy, and tremendous ability to capture all of the senses in her word-weaving. You'll feel the pain, smell the filth, experience the darkness as you read. I was impressed by her knowledge of often little-known historical details.
The story in itself is a generally sad one, full of intrigue, a murder (?), all of the horrors of the time period, and the general ill effects of a godless society. Hope does break forth from time to time, but the light is far and few between the storm clouds. Expect to be intrigued and mystified, but still saddened and left moody or even depressed. 98% of the characters are downright creepy, unlovable, and wicked. The good ones are good, but understandable and very human (which I like).
I personally would have liked to see more focus on Christ and the gospel. Hope in God is there, but from a vague, almost ecumenical standpoint. This, perhaps, is perhaps because the author wishes to appeal to a wide variety of readers.
The bad do get their deserts, hope does shine forth to conquer, and the ending left me satisfied and warmed after the bleakness of the story. Warnings for sexual references (a nightmare, a man's callous remarks), violence, drugs (opium), and all of the godlessness that was known to that period in England's history.
Recommended for historical fiction fans.
December 18, 2013
Miri, being an unmarried young woman, is at the mercy of her brother's care. But her brother, a rector responsible for a parish, is going insane. That makes Miri not only her brother's protector, but her own as well. Because if anyone learned about her brother's mental state, they'd be thrown out of the rectory with no place to go.
Ethan lives on the streets, addicted to opium and more. After meeting God, he sets out to change his ways, but a street scuffle leaves two men dead, one at his own hand. Ethan flees to the country to hide, and takes refuge at a rectory at the mercy of Miri, his friend's sister.
And there Miri and Ethan's lives meet.
Michelle Griep tells great stories. And while the genre of this one was different from her other books, I couldn't put it down. The story reminded me of a Dickens novel. She did an excellent job of showing real life in 1795 England. How little freedom women had, how easily a few people could sentence someone to live in an insane asylum, and how quickly an innocent man could be tried and convicted on the word of a dishonest officer of the law. I enjoyed the characters, how they struggled with sin and temptation, made mistakes, but came out on the other side of all that with hope for the future. Can't wait to read what this author writes next.
Ethan lives on the streets, addicted to opium and more. After meeting God, he sets out to change his ways, but a street scuffle leaves two men dead, one at his own hand. Ethan flees to the country to hide, and takes refuge at a rectory at the mercy of Miri, his friend's sister.
And there Miri and Ethan's lives meet.
Michelle Griep tells great stories. And while the genre of this one was different from her other books, I couldn't put it down. The story reminded me of a Dickens novel. She did an excellent job of showing real life in 1795 England. How little freedom women had, how easily a few people could sentence someone to live in an insane asylum, and how quickly an innocent man could be tried and convicted on the word of a dishonest officer of the law. I enjoyed the characters, how they struggled with sin and temptation, made mistakes, but came out on the other side of all that with hope for the future. Can't wait to read what this author writes next.
August 25, 2018
'When we're at our weakest, God's at His strongest.'
Miri Brayden lives with her brother, a preacher who is mad. She is constantly on her guard to protect that fact from others, for she knows he will be committed to an asylum if his madness is discovered. And he is her only source of income. Then one day she discovers a bedraggled beggar in the garden shed outside the rectory. Ethan Goodwin, a self proclaimed murderer, opium addict and criminal of all sorts is hiding to escape a false murder charge. But Ethan has had a run in with John Newton and is now a changed man.
Things progress at an alarming rate and Miri finds herself, along with her brother, held in the insane asylum, as Ethan is taken to Newgate prison on a murder charge. What will happen next? Michelle Griep has once again crafted some amazing characters and inserted them into her readers' hearts. Even the ones I hated, because they were mean, were real! I thought I had read all her books, but discovered this one hiding out on my kindle. I loved it! Griep is so very descriptive of absolutely everything in her books. I love it when an author manages to plop me down into the story and I don't want to leave. There is also a quite powerful spiritual thread running through this one. Highly recommended.
Miri Brayden lives with her brother, a preacher who is mad. She is constantly on her guard to protect that fact from others, for she knows he will be committed to an asylum if his madness is discovered. And he is her only source of income. Then one day she discovers a bedraggled beggar in the garden shed outside the rectory. Ethan Goodwin, a self proclaimed murderer, opium addict and criminal of all sorts is hiding to escape a false murder charge. But Ethan has had a run in with John Newton and is now a changed man.
Things progress at an alarming rate and Miri finds herself, along with her brother, held in the insane asylum, as Ethan is taken to Newgate prison on a murder charge. What will happen next? Michelle Griep has once again crafted some amazing characters and inserted them into her readers' hearts. Even the ones I hated, because they were mean, were real! I thought I had read all her books, but discovered this one hiding out on my kindle. I loved it! Griep is so very descriptive of absolutely everything in her books. I love it when an author manages to plop me down into the story and I don't want to leave. There is also a quite powerful spiritual thread running through this one. Highly recommended.
August 26, 2015
Michelle Griep has single-handedly renewed my love for Regency Romance. A Heart Deceived is no bodice ripper, something I tired of long ago. It's an intriguing tale of a young, unmarried woman who must keep her brother's growing insanity a secret--or he'd end up in an asylum, and she'd end up homeless.
Michelle's characters are as real and complex as her plot. She included a couple of men in there who I still want to smack upside the head. But her true gift as an author is in her ability to sink the reader in the setting. Of course, nothing enhances the ability to describe a scene better than life-long study and physically seeing the country. Michelle doesn't keep us in a pristine home with blooming flowers and birds chirping. She takes us out for a walk along the waterfront, where the danger lies and poverty abounds and the need to cover our noses with a lacy kerchief is overpowering.
This story illustrates the difference between God's saving grace, and man's pharisaic twisting of His laws. Definitely worth the read.
Michelle's characters are as real and complex as her plot. She included a couple of men in there who I still want to smack upside the head. But her true gift as an author is in her ability to sink the reader in the setting. Of course, nothing enhances the ability to describe a scene better than life-long study and physically seeing the country. Michelle doesn't keep us in a pristine home with blooming flowers and birds chirping. She takes us out for a walk along the waterfront, where the danger lies and poverty abounds and the need to cover our noses with a lacy kerchief is overpowering.
This story illustrates the difference between God's saving grace, and man's pharisaic twisting of His laws. Definitely worth the read.
June 8, 2020
This book felt incredibly real, took me on an interesting ride, and couldn’t have ended more beautifully! Highly recommend!
February 5, 2022
Recently I discovered some of Michelle Griep’s earlier books that I hadn’t read. A Heart Deceived is a gripping Gothic regency, much along with the style of her latest, Lost in Darkness. In fact, A Heart Deceived could easily be a part of Griep’s newest series, Of Monsters and Men. Maybe not the physical type of monster, but a monster, nonetheless.
I loved poor, conflicted Miri Brayden. She is torn between fearing and loving her brother, who alternates between treating her hatefully and regressing into partial insanity. Can she keep him safe and both of them housed and respected? What will the arrival of Ethan Goodwin do to her physical and emotional stability?
I loved Ethan because he is both despicable and charming. God gets ahold of his life through John Newton and transforms his desires. But will it be soon enough to salvage his character and keep him from reaping the whirlwind his wastrel life has sown?
Best supporting actor award goes to John Newton, whom we meet as an older, merciful clergy who understands depravity, grace, and faith. He is not afraid to present God to the basest of society. He does so with such humor, love, directness, and confidence that one can’t help but like him. If Griep portrays him correctly, what a transformation God made in his life! Newton’s goal is then to transform as many other lives for the kingdom as possible, but he is so winsome and positive about it!
“God believes in you. Your belief or lack of it doesn’t change His existence.” “When we are at our weakest, God’s at His strongest.”
Michelle Griep had me smiling so many times, even as she wrote about very serious topics. Her ability to turn a phrase at a precise moment gave comic relief to extremely suspenseful scenes. I love that! “‘Your brother treads in dangerous waters, Miss Brayden. Dangerous and deep. See if you can talk some sense into the man.’
Miri dipped a curtsy. She might more easily talk a chicken into giving milk. “And I chortled at, “Why did it never fail that her most wicked thoughts crept out in the holiest of places?”
Jails and insane asylums were horrible places in the regency era, and Griep provides an accurate, eerie look at both. You will think you are in either location with our hapless characters.
The climax and resolution of this wonderful novel are superb, just like the rest of the book. The action is very quick.
A Griep book is always full of “Notable Quotables,” treasures of words, often Biblically-based, that transcend the time into our present lives. How I love this feature of Griep’s books!
If you haven’t discovered this early Griep work, the time to change that omission is now! Most highly recommended!!
I loved poor, conflicted Miri Brayden. She is torn between fearing and loving her brother, who alternates between treating her hatefully and regressing into partial insanity. Can she keep him safe and both of them housed and respected? What will the arrival of Ethan Goodwin do to her physical and emotional stability?
I loved Ethan because he is both despicable and charming. God gets ahold of his life through John Newton and transforms his desires. But will it be soon enough to salvage his character and keep him from reaping the whirlwind his wastrel life has sown?
Best supporting actor award goes to John Newton, whom we meet as an older, merciful clergy who understands depravity, grace, and faith. He is not afraid to present God to the basest of society. He does so with such humor, love, directness, and confidence that one can’t help but like him. If Griep portrays him correctly, what a transformation God made in his life! Newton’s goal is then to transform as many other lives for the kingdom as possible, but he is so winsome and positive about it!
“God believes in you. Your belief or lack of it doesn’t change His existence.” “When we are at our weakest, God’s at His strongest.”
Michelle Griep had me smiling so many times, even as she wrote about very serious topics. Her ability to turn a phrase at a precise moment gave comic relief to extremely suspenseful scenes. I love that! “‘Your brother treads in dangerous waters, Miss Brayden. Dangerous and deep. See if you can talk some sense into the man.’
Miri dipped a curtsy. She might more easily talk a chicken into giving milk. “And I chortled at, “Why did it never fail that her most wicked thoughts crept out in the holiest of places?”
Jails and insane asylums were horrible places in the regency era, and Griep provides an accurate, eerie look at both. You will think you are in either location with our hapless characters.
The climax and resolution of this wonderful novel are superb, just like the rest of the book. The action is very quick.
A Griep book is always full of “Notable Quotables,” treasures of words, often Biblically-based, that transcend the time into our present lives. How I love this feature of Griep’s books!
If you haven’t discovered this early Griep work, the time to change that omission is now! Most highly recommended!!
dnf
May 21, 2018Dnf. I honestly wanted to finish reading this, but I couldn't find a good enough reason to do so. It's disappointing as the writing was decent, and the author tackled a number of important issues, such as domestic violence and mental health. But the plot was slow and dull, and I didn't really care about the characters.
August 11, 2020
While I am captivated by all of Michelle Griep's books that I've read so far, A Heart Deceived was particularly compelling. The characters were deep, imperfect, and relatable. The story had me on the edge of my seat. Can God be trusted even when life has fallen apart? Can there truly be peace in the storms? The answers to these questions did not come lightly. The truth--God is still there whether it be in an asylum, a jail cell, or an opulent manor house, and He still cares.
I couldn't put this book down. I wanted it to go on longer, to share more of the characters' lives. Highly recommended. I want to read everything Michelle Griep has penned.
I couldn't put this book down. I wanted it to go on longer, to share more of the characters' lives. Highly recommended. I want to read everything Michelle Griep has penned.
February 23, 2015
From bad to worse, that is the formula for a gripping tale. And that's what author Michelle Griep puts her characters through in this tension-filled historical novel. Set in London in the mid-1700s (I believe) against the backdrop of class distinction and social injustice, Miriall Brayden cares for her mad and abusive brother. If his madness is discovered, both of them will be cast our of their home. She has no idea how far his demented mind has driven him.
Meanwhile, Ethan Goodwin, a poverty-stricken thief whose conscience has begun to show itself, must run for his life when he is framed for murder. If not for his loyal friend, the Reverend John Newton, Ethan may not have survived even the first onslaught of troubles.
Ethan meets Miri and they form a strong attachment in spite of their differences in station, discovering hidden noble traits along with well-kept secrets.
Then the fragile routine of their days is destroyed by one dreadful occurrence after another. What will become of young Miri and Ethan and the love they are only beginning to realize?
I thought the characters in this novel were well-presented, three-dimensional and varied. The insertion of John Newton into the mix was excellent. His character is robust and encouraging.
The plot, as stated above, moved swiftly from difficulty to difficulty, until the last few pages, where the story threads were tied up.
I think the author managed the setting well, creating word pictures that anchored the characters in their diverse worlds.
Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, forgiveness and redemption filled the pages of this story, and I recommend it as a captivating read.
Meanwhile, Ethan Goodwin, a poverty-stricken thief whose conscience has begun to show itself, must run for his life when he is framed for murder. If not for his loyal friend, the Reverend John Newton, Ethan may not have survived even the first onslaught of troubles.
Ethan meets Miri and they form a strong attachment in spite of their differences in station, discovering hidden noble traits along with well-kept secrets.
Then the fragile routine of their days is destroyed by one dreadful occurrence after another. What will become of young Miri and Ethan and the love they are only beginning to realize?
I thought the characters in this novel were well-presented, three-dimensional and varied. The insertion of John Newton into the mix was excellent. His character is robust and encouraging.
The plot, as stated above, moved swiftly from difficulty to difficulty, until the last few pages, where the story threads were tied up.
I think the author managed the setting well, creating word pictures that anchored the characters in their diverse worlds.
Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, forgiveness and redemption filled the pages of this story, and I recommend it as a captivating read.
July 26, 2013
You want this book. Trust me when I tell you that I was not expecting this book to be as completely incredible as it actually is. It wasn't for any particular reason I thought this. I hadn't heard of the author before this and the romancey-feel to the description made me wonder if I would enjoy it. Wow!
This book has some of the most beautiful description I have seen in any novel. I actually had to try not to continually highlight passages every few paragraphs. There are some fantastic quotes in this book, such as "If men's heads were roses, she'd lop them all off." and "Better to have lunch with a madman than suffer dissection by the town."
Really, there is no particular thing that makes this such an amazing book, it is just an overall lovely experience. I struggle to find a single thing that I don't like about it, other than that I am finished with it and now the next book I read will have to work really hard to impress me this much.
I have certainly found a new author to add to my list of favourites.
This book has a lot of things to love. I will spare us all from me listing them individually. What I will say, is that the plot is compelling, the characters and setting are rich and lively and the ending is so well done there is a solemn feeling of having to leave this novel behind when you finish.
I would recommend this book to anyone. Love it.
This review is based on a digital ARC from the publisher and Netgalley.
This book has some of the most beautiful description I have seen in any novel. I actually had to try not to continually highlight passages every few paragraphs. There are some fantastic quotes in this book, such as "If men's heads were roses, she'd lop them all off." and "Better to have lunch with a madman than suffer dissection by the town."
Really, there is no particular thing that makes this such an amazing book, it is just an overall lovely experience. I struggle to find a single thing that I don't like about it, other than that I am finished with it and now the next book I read will have to work really hard to impress me this much.
I have certainly found a new author to add to my list of favourites.
This book has a lot of things to love. I will spare us all from me listing them individually. What I will say, is that the plot is compelling, the characters and setting are rich and lively and the ending is so well done there is a solemn feeling of having to leave this novel behind when you finish.
I would recommend this book to anyone. Love it.
This review is based on a digital ARC from the publisher and Netgalley.
July 19, 2013
Michelle Griep--until this book, I had never heard of her. In fact, I chose this novel on the recommendation of Julie Klassen, who writes books with plots similar to this one. I figured, I like Klassen, so I'll probably like Griep, too. This turned out to be a really good bet. Griep's tale is much darker than most Regency-era novels I've read, but in a way, that's a refreshing change. It means the opportunity for conflict increases, as does the need for realistic character actions and resolutions. Yet, this book also doesn't lose the essential elements of a good Regency novel--a strong heroine, a hero who will stand beside her and yet rescue her when needed, and in my case, redemption. Miri and Ethan provide tons of all this. Miri had my sympathy from the beginning, but I never saw her as a simpering victim. She's intelligent, faithful, and willing to sacrifice everything--quite literally--for not only those she loves, but those who abuse her, in a great Christ-like example. Ethan Goodwin, too, kept my pages turning, as I wondered what would happen to him and if he'd be able to cultivate his new life. The only weakness I saw was a lack of spiritual development on Ethan's part--it seemed he met Newton, converted, and for a long while, that was "it." Yet, the ending chapters more than compensated for this. I definitely want Griep to write more like this.
July 4, 2013
After reading Michelle’s previous book Undercurrent, I was expecting nothing less than a great read. Well, I was not disappointed. Michelle has definitely stepped it up a bit with this new release. A bit on the darker side, but so intriguing and well written. There is so much going on in A Heart Deceived, you may ask “Will I get lost?” The answer is no! Michelle does an excellent job bringing all the different aspects together and making a perfectly harmonious story…..Murder, addictions, insanity, uncertainty, heartbreak…..add to that, forgiveness, love, compassion and heroism. You will also get a close up look at what went on inside Asylums in those days….so sad.
Best of all, Michelle brings the power of God into her story in a way that will give you goosebumps. I truly think the story ended too soon. I would love to see a sequel to this book. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a story that stirs the soul and makes your heart pound.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, but was under no obligation to give a positive review.
Best of all, Michelle brings the power of God into her story in a way that will give you goosebumps. I truly think the story ended too soon. I would love to see a sequel to this book. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a story that stirs the soul and makes your heart pound.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, but was under no obligation to give a positive review.
July 31, 2013
This book is a story of flawed people who learn to put their faith in God, but not without going through many trials. Miri Braydon is dependent upon her older brother, who is seriously mentally ill. She must disguise his illness so that they will have a place to live, but his outbursts are becoming more noticeable. Ethan Goodwin is a drug abuser who lives on the streets in London. His best friend, Miri's younger brother, Will, is killed by jumping in front of the knife intended for him. Will dies telling Ethan to find Miri; that she will help him. This story tells of a woman's necessary dependance on her male relatives (due to the time period) and a man's struggle to change his life for the better. There are the added problems of a missing minister, Will's demise as well as the mental illness of Miri's brother, Roland. Though it is a Christian romance, it was not preachy. I have not been compensated in any way (other than being given a copy of this book to review) and my opinion on the book is entirely my own.
July 3, 2013
A new-to-me-author, this was my first introduction with Michelle Griep’s writing. This woman really can write! Usually I’m not so much into books with a sort of ‘dark’ setting and that’s why I looked at this book for at least three times and every time decided not to request it for review, but then I did it anyway—and boy, am I glad I did!
The author has a unique way with words that drew me into the story right away—on the first page I sat next to Miri in church and reluctantly had to let my new friend go on the last.
The descriptions are so rich and full, I could almost feel, hear, smell, and touch them. The emotions splattered from the pages—fear, despair, unfairness, hope, love, romance!
Extremely well written, excellent research, and a brilliant plot!!
*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley.*
The author has a unique way with words that drew me into the story right away—on the first page I sat next to Miri in church and reluctantly had to let my new friend go on the last.
The descriptions are so rich and full, I could almost feel, hear, smell, and touch them. The emotions splattered from the pages—fear, despair, unfairness, hope, love, romance!
Extremely well written, excellent research, and a brilliant plot!!
*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley.*
May 9, 2020
This was my first Michelle Griep book. Came on recommendation from another author I enjoy.
As noted by the four stars, I mostly enjoyed this book! Certainly more than the book I'd just finished.
Griep's story and style reminded me a bit of Dickens'. Well. What little Dickens I've read.
I also appreciated, but was a bit surprised by, the big...drama? part way through. It reminded me a bit of the scope of saga that Francine Rivers uses in her Mark of the Lion series.
Although I was a bit uncertain I could stomach much of the cruel elder brother, it was worth pushing through.
As noted by the four stars, I mostly enjoyed this book! Certainly more than the book I'd just finished.
Griep's story and style reminded me a bit of Dickens'. Well. What little Dickens I've read.
I also appreciated, but was a bit surprised by, the big...drama? part way through. It reminded me a bit of the scope of saga that Francine Rivers uses in her Mark of the Lion series.
Although I was a bit uncertain I could stomach much of the cruel elder brother, it was worth pushing through.
August 20, 2013
This is a terrific read. Reminded me of the gothic romances I loved to read when I was younger, but with a truly redemptive thread (not preachy). At times very gritty, yet eloquently written. This author knows how to open scenes with dynamic punch. And talk about making things worse and worse for her characters. I can't imagine things getting any worse for a hero and heroine. Read it, you'll love it. If you're a writer, study her style.
April 25, 2015
Michelle Griep is a new author for me, so I was thrilled to find another talented author to read from. A Heart Deceived shares a story of redemption in a powerful way. I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more from this author. Mrs. Griep didn't shy away from the realities and hardships that her characters faced. I believe she handled these situations very tastefully, but due to the heavy violent content, sensitive readers should beware.
April 15, 2020
Sad when I have to come back home after an adventure delivered by Michelle Griep’s “A Heart Deceived”.
Utterly captivating and beautiful descriptive imagery will promise an exciting ride for a few hours or days. This being my first Michelle Griep book, I look forward to diving into another and escaping for a while.
Utterly captivating and beautiful descriptive imagery will promise an exciting ride for a few hours or days. This being my first Michelle Griep book, I look forward to diving into another and escaping for a while.
March 3, 2024
The writing style and time period of this book took me a moment to get into. However once I had all the characters figured out and got into the writing style, I had troubles putting the this book down! I figured there would be more so a happy ending and I was thankful there was. What a horrible time to live when you could be so easily put in jail for a murder you didn’t commit or just thrown into an insane asylum simply for being born different or a woman who dared stand up for herself. Not that some of these things don’t happen now, but how easily it likely and did happen in the past. A good book worth the read! I do wish somehow the book included a moment where every single one of those men that condemned Miri to the asylum had karma happen to them and I got to soak up how ashamed they felt (I’m sure none of them are capable of feeling shame), but then again a book where God/grace is spoken of so much I suppose my heart shouldn’t seek karma and give grace (but sometimes it doesn’t hurt lol).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2018
Jane Austin would cheer Michelle Griep’s novels
Prepare yourself to read all night.
The protagonists, Miri Braydon and Ethan Goodwin, face life-altering struggles. Miri deals with a mentally unstable brother jeopardizing their good names and their livelihood. Ethan battles an opium addiction and guilt from his previous unsavory choices.
Between misunderstandings, madness, and a campaign of lies waged against them, the poorhouse, the madhouse, and jailhouse all loom in the characters’ futures.
Under dire pressure, will love and truth prevail?
The writer has once again accomplished her trademark--creating fallible characters we root for, despite their imperfections.
Michelle Griep’s novels never fail to capture the essence of God’s faithfulness in the midst of the darkest situations. Even when the characters battle the fiercest opposition, when their situations seem utterly hopeless, God is working behind the scenes, strengthening them, and working their tattered lives into a beauty far surpassing their wildest imaginations.
Spoiler alert:
I love happy endings. This book delivers a delightful one.
Prepare yourself to read all night.
The protagonists, Miri Braydon and Ethan Goodwin, face life-altering struggles. Miri deals with a mentally unstable brother jeopardizing their good names and their livelihood. Ethan battles an opium addiction and guilt from his previous unsavory choices.
Between misunderstandings, madness, and a campaign of lies waged against them, the poorhouse, the madhouse, and jailhouse all loom in the characters’ futures.
Under dire pressure, will love and truth prevail?
The writer has once again accomplished her trademark--creating fallible characters we root for, despite their imperfections.
Michelle Griep’s novels never fail to capture the essence of God’s faithfulness in the midst of the darkest situations. Even when the characters battle the fiercest opposition, when their situations seem utterly hopeless, God is working behind the scenes, strengthening them, and working their tattered lives into a beauty far surpassing their wildest imaginations.
Spoiler alert:
I love happy endings. This book delivers a delightful one.
May 20, 2017
“A Heart Deceived,” by Michelle Griep is a work of historical fiction. It is also a book of faithfulness, love and mental illness. Sometimes, when we work so hard to live a life of deceit everything falls apart.
This is what happens to Miri as she struggles to hide the truth about what is happening to her brother. After being brow-beaten, mistreated, and ridiculed by her brother for so long, Miri longs for some love and human kindness. That can’t be too much to ask for, can it? As her brother arranges her marriage to a man she abhors she tries to figure out if there can ever be an escape for her.
“A Heart Deceived” is an easy to read, clean novel. It is well written, full of God’s faithfulness, and it held my attention all the way through.
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
This is what happens to Miri as she struggles to hide the truth about what is happening to her brother. After being brow-beaten, mistreated, and ridiculed by her brother for so long, Miri longs for some love and human kindness. That can’t be too much to ask for, can it? As her brother arranges her marriage to a man she abhors she tries to figure out if there can ever be an escape for her.
“A Heart Deceived” is an easy to read, clean novel. It is well written, full of God’s faithfulness, and it held my attention all the way through.
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
September 27, 2019
Always a surprise!
Many authors are predictable. They have their style but along with quaint details and description, they also have patterns, making their stories somewhat similar. Not Michelle. In this story I think I see a redemption but then another crisis flips the outcome, and I wonder what will come next. And then I remembered, yes, that's life! Blessings, Michelle! Thanks again!
Many authors are predictable. They have their style but along with quaint details and description, they also have patterns, making their stories somewhat similar. Not Michelle. In this story I think I see a redemption but then another crisis flips the outcome, and I wonder what will come next. And then I remembered, yes, that's life! Blessings, Michelle! Thanks again!
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