Of Gold and Shadows

Time's Lost Treasures #1

by Michelle Griep

In 1888 Victorian England, Ami Dalton navigates a clandestine dual life. By day, she strives to establish herself as a respected Egyptologist, overcoming the gender biases that permeate academia. But with a heart for rescuing black-market artifacts, she is most often disguised as her alter ego, the Shadow Broker. After eight years in India, Oxford's most eligible bachelor, Edmund Price, has come out of the shadows to run for Parliament and is in search of an Egyptologist to value a newly acquired collection. Expecting a renowned Oxford professor, Edmund instead finds himself entangled with Ami, the professor's determined daughter. As they delve into the treasures, their connection deepens, but trouble emerges when a golden griffin--rumored to bear the curse of Amentuk--surfaces and they're left to wonder if the curse really is at play, or if something more nefarious is hiding among the shadows. . . . Award-winning author Michelle Griep weaves a tale of love, mystery, and intrigue set against the backdrop of the gaslit streets of Oxford, England.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Mystery, Historical, Fiction, Christian

368 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2024

About the author

I 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?

Reviews

[Lovely Day]

DNFd at 15% when a believer in Christ does palm reading….??? (To clarify, it wasn’t fortune telling per se, but something like ‘you are courageous and think critically based on this deep line’ etc…) *see Werner’s comment below for more insight*

Otherwise, the story was going good….aside from making the main female character ‘not-like-other-girls’ 🙄

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

“There’s a connection between teamwork and achievement, you know. Just like bees, people can accomplish so much more if they work together toward a common goal instead of insisting upon selfish ambitions.”

This book ticked all the boxes for me:
✔️Strong and intelligent female protagonist with just the right amount of sassy
“You will soon find I am not the average female. My head is turned by a finely wrapped, mummified corpse, not a flesh-and-blood pile of muscles.”
✔️captivating historical timeline with just the right amount of romance
✔️captivating mystery with dark secrets and legends
✔️Egypt - a great balance between cultural heritage and antiquities

I loved being prompted to Google:
Excelsior, bee skep, Lady Margaret Hall, and shadow brokering.

Themes I enjoyed:
✔️What we do when we find we’re missing out on recognition we feel we should have deserved
✔️What we do when we’ve got a commitment to honor, but it’s easier to quit and move on
✔️What we do when we find ourselves in a hazardous situation but we need to carry on with a noble cause
✔️Learning from bees
✔️Bearing emotional scars

I was gifted this copy by Bethany House and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been fascinated by archaeological digs and artifacts since I was given some fossils as a child. This story piqued my interest from the start.
I liked the strength Ami Dalton had as an educated woman who was immersed in Egyptology. She was adamant about returning the items to the country of origin. Our hero, Edmund Price, has returned to England from India and is surprised that Ami is not obsessed with him and his wealth as most other females are. Ami: “My head is turned by a finely wrapped mummified corpse, not a flesh and blood pile of muscles.”
As Ami catalogs and values the artifacts that Edmund has just purchased, Ami and Edmund help eachother grow and recognize that God is at work in their lives.
This complex tale was full of Victorian atmosphere, lots of danger, intrigue, secret identities and a few shady characters. Ms. Griep adds interesting details such as word blindness, prank playing by the servants,and the rumor of an ancient curse to round out the suspenseful twists and turns.
Fans of Victorian Gothic stories will be pleased with the start of a new series and the authentic voice of the author.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Cathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gothic mystery with true love and archeological artifacts! An enjoyable page-turner of an adventure. The opening scene in the graveyard totally hooked me. The two main characters were well developed. I immediately liked our main character Ami. She was strong, smart, confident…yet not. Being a woman in a man’s field, but masquerading as Shadow Broker. The hero, Edmund, is also fighting multiple issues from his past and present. There were fun side characters that added depth to the going-ons at Price House. I always appreciate how Michelle Griep incorporates faith into her stories. Trusting God and knowing your identity in Christ were what I took away. I felt vibes of Beauty and the Beast, Jane Eyre, and Princess Bride. Yes, the twist at the end got me. Clever indeed. I absolute loved this adventurous tale!

[Alysha (For The Love of Christian Fiction) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this story from start to finish!

I loved the characters, their interactions with each other, their maturity, their conversation AND their banter, their faith and prayers!

This was a fun read and I absolutely loved it!

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are author's whose books you will read if they're around but don't go out of your way to find them. This is not one of those authors for me. I must read all of the author's books, couldn't dare to miss one. They are filled with intrigue and action and keep me on my toes wondering how things will end up as the story progresses.
Danger is around every other corner and had me holding my breath as I was reading.
I enjoyed seeing a nontraditional role a woman had in this Victorian England taking pace regency style historical fiction book.
Growing up Ami Dalton has been impressed with the work her father does as an Egyptologist, hearing the talk and seeing the artifacts her father works with she became enamored with this type of thing as well. Getting the education to become one as a woman hasn't been easy and many don't take her seriously.
When she hears of precious artifacts falling into the wrong hands on the black market, she knows she must do everything in her power to save them and preserve them.
Edmund Price is looking for an Egyptologist to work with him to get a very valuable piece and he expects a renowned Oxford professor, a male to work with him. This is not what he gets.
A golden griffin rumored to bear the curse of Amentuk is found the danger starts. With danger abound can they escape with their lives intact? I loved learning about the Egyptian artifacts and the descriptions of the behind the scenes work of the Egyptologist is fascinating. A spellbinding read that has me anxiously awaiting the next in the series.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I, sir, am a rescuer of forgotten fragments, a story guardian of the past, a fervent believer in bringing history to life for the masses.“

Reading books recently like The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green (set in 1920s New York) and now Of Gold and Shadows by Michelle Griep (set in Victorian England) has got me wondering why we, as in the human race in general, are so fascinated with Egypt and its treasures? Perhaps it’s the massive pyramids and the Sphinx whose construction defies explanation for their time. Maybe it’s the mysterious nature of the mummies and our odd preoccupation with the macabre. Perhaps it’s just the treasures that were buried with their dead, artifacts which stir the Indiana Jones in us all. Or maybe it’s all of the above. Whatever the reason(s) for its existence, *I* am fascinated by Egyptomania. It’s not something I remember learning about in school so I really enjoyed this glimpse of it in Victorian England, thanks to the masterful storycrafting of author Michelle Griep.

First off, I must say how much I adored Ami and Edmund and the romance that builds between them as the story progresses. Ami Dalton is delightfully knowledgeable, big-hearted, and a little quirky (particularly in her wardrobe choices lol). She’s not afraid of things that would make most women of her day swoon into a dead faint, including ancient Egyptian curses, defying society’s expectations, or sneaking around in the dead of night as the infamous ‘Shadow Broker’ of antiquities… but sometimes that stubborn courage gets her into trouble. And then there’s Edmund Price, the swoony (and very eligible) society bachelor who entertainingly doesn’t quite know what to do with her. There is much more to Edmund than meets the eye, and I so loved getting to know his backstory, his strengths, and his struggles. Watching the two of them together made my heart smile – for their delicious romantic chemistry, yes, but first for their deep friendship that forms out of mutual respect and shared pain, despite their appearing to be polar opposites at first glance.

There’s also a fun thread of suspense and mystery that forms the framework for Of Gold and Shadows. From ne’er-do-wells skulking around in the shadows to strange occurrences that may or may not be attributed to a cursed relic, there’s a lovely vibe to the story that brings to mind Christie, Doyle, and even Poe from time to time. Victorian England lends itself perfectly to this type of story, and the spookiness contributed by the Egyptian artifacts fits it just as perfectly. Not to mention some unexpected turns that reminded me why I love historical mystery novels!

Bottom Line: Of Gold and Shadows by Michelle Griep is an entertaining adventure, a sweet love story, a homage to female trailblazers, and a layered suspense all rolled into one atmospheric tale with a meaningful faith thread, too. True to form, Griep has given readers a wonderful cast of characters to carry the plot from start to finish, including a few that are as easy to loathe as the rest are to adore. The mystery/suspense elements along with the moody Victorian setting make this the perfect choice for your first read of Fall, and the romance is everything swoony and tender. I thoroughly enjoyed this escape into fiction, and I think you will too!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Milena Bookish❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This perfectly charming Victorian mystery is filled with Gothic elements, true love, and archaeological artifacts. It’s an enjoyable page-turner that takes the reader on an adventurous journey. Ami and Edmund have personal obstacles to overcome—Edmund, who has dyslexia, hides it well, but his past hurts prevent him from forming close relationships. Meanwhile, Ami struggles to find her self-worth.

Ami and Edmund share amazing chemistry, and their witty banter is hilarious. Their romance is sweet, and I loved how it developed over time. Their playful exchanges were flirty and fun, and their kisses were simply perfect.

This is another fantastic historical novel by Michelle Griep! With a blend of intrigue, adventure, mystery, romance, and humor, it truly stands out as a great read!

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful adventure!! I LOVE digging into a new Michelle Griep story! I know I will be entertained, intrigued, and fall in love with her captivating characters. I loved this story of romance, danger, and adventure, with a lovely faith thread woven throughout. Sweet and funny amidst twists and surprises, I could not put it down!

Congenital word blindness (dyslexia), Egyptian artifacts, opium addiction, intrigue, and the love of God the Father are just some of the things the reader will encounter in Of Gold and Shadows.

Favorite quotes:
"That despite tribulation, God's goodness prevails."

"There has to be a balance between preserving the past while existing in the present, else are we truly living." (This line really resonated, I am trying to walk that fine line!)

"Did ye know bees are some o' the most consistent creatures around? They've a job to do and they do it without fail. I reckon that's a lesson fer all o' us, keepin' our commitments no matter what distractions come our way."

I highly recommend Of Gold And Shadows for all who love historical fiction. It's a fabulous tale!

Thank you to Bethany House and Michelle Griep for allowing me to read an early copy, all opinions are my own.

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michelle Griep is a favorite author of mine, writing worlds and characters into the imagination that I would like very much to know or visit. Her prose is magnificent and Of Gold and Shadows is no different. It’s the first book in her new Times Lost Treasures series. I’m waiting on bated breath for book 2!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, can we take a moment to appreciate this gorgeous cover? It's simply stunning, and I am in love with it.

I just finished this book, and words are failing me right now. While I am a HUGE fan of Michelle Griep, she may have outdone herself with this book. I have always been enthralled with archaeology, and especially Egyptian relics, so this story just spoke to me. Plus, one of our children has "word blindness" and its idiosyncrasies, so it became that much more personal.

And I also have to say that at one point, I actually covered my nose so I wouldn't smell what was being described. You know it's some descriptive writing when you have to protect yourself from the onslaught of odors being depicted!

Bosh! I think it's safe to say that I greatly fancy this book.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading Of Gold and Shadows was like uncovering a sacred relic hidden in the dust of time—a discovery that transcends the artifacts and whispers of the past to reveal something more precious than gold. Michelle Griep constructs an intricate narrative where history and faith are woven together, creating a story that pulls you deeper than any Egyptian tomb could. This isn’t simply a journey through Victorian London or Egyptology; it’s an excavation of the soul.

Ami Dalton captivated me from the first page. She’s a woman whose fierce intellect and passion for Egyptology ignite like a fire, yet it is her faith that fuels her, keeping her grounded amidst the shifting sands of superstition and societal pressure. She stands on the precipice of a male-dominated world, her ambition pushing against the walls of expectation. What makes her extraordinary, however, is not just her brilliance but her vulnerability—her faith acts as a steadying force, quietly bolstering her through each obstacle, each moment of doubt. Ami’s unwavering belief is an invitation to trust in God’s timing, to know that history, like faith, reveals its deepest truths when we are ready to receive them.

Edward Price, in contrast, is a man of shadow and substance. In him, Griep creates a figure who seems at odds with Ami—both in temperament and purpose—yet it’s precisely this contrast that makes their connection so compelling. Edward is an artifact in his own right—layered, mysterious, and sometimes broken. As his past is peeled back, we see his redemption arc unfold with subtle grace, showing that even the most fractured histories can be made whole. His journey mirrors the theme of restoration that runs through the novel: surrendering all to God can heal what appears irreparably lost. Through their shared faith, Ami and Edward navigate a labyrinth of personal struggles, each discovering that redemption is more than a one-time event; it is a continual choice to live in grace and obedience to Jesus, our Savior.

Griep’s prose is a treasure in itself. Her writing, laced with historical depth and spiritual insight, never feels heavy-handed or overly complex. There’s a richness in every sentence that invites reflection—her words are like the ancient relics Ami studies, offering more the longer you examine them. The humor woven through the narrative acts as a delicate counterbalance to the intensity of the themes, offering lightness in moments of darkness. The dialogue flows like a well-rehearsed dance—quick, sharp, and at times humorous—yet always resonating with the deeper truths that both Ami and Edward are learning to embrace.

The characters live and breathe their faith, allowing it to shape their decisions, their relationships, and their very identities. In a world where superstition looms and the shadows of the past threaten to drown them, their faith provides both strength and vulnerability. There are moments of doubt, yes, but also moments of quiet, powerful surrender, where faith isn’t just spoken—it’s embodied in action, in sacrifice, in love.

This book is a treasure trove of spiritual truths, nestled in a historical adventure that feels both timeless and immediate. The way Griep explores the intersection of the sacred and the secular is nothing short of masterful. The artifacts of Egypt—ancient, powerful, and mysterious—become metaphors for the healing power of God. Like the dust that settles on these relics, our sins may seem insurmountable, but faith in God’s redemption offers clarity and purpose, bringing light to the darkest corners of the soul.

Of Gold and Shadows doesn’t just stay with you because of the fascinating characters or the thrilling plot twists—it stays because it invites you to ponder deeper questions of faith, history, and redemption. It reminds you that the stories we uncover, whether in ancient tombs or our own lives, are imbued with meaning, waiting to be seen by a heavenly point of view. Griep’s ability to blend these elements so seamlessly is what makes this novel an unforgettable experience. When I finished this story, I felt as though I had unearthed something far more valuable than mere words on a page.

I received a paperback of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Angela Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swoony. Suspenseful. Spectacular. Michelle Griep has penned another five-star stunner!

Readers will relish Griep’s signature blend of heart-fluttering romance, witty banter, and Dickensian flair, enhanced in this new tome by the bergamoty flavor and papery aroma of dark academia.

I wholeheartedly shipped bookish poet Edmund and quirky Egyptologist Ami as they navigated a mystery rife with ancient curses, shadowy characters, and unexpected twists.

If you fancy the notion of exploring a Victorian manor house agleam with antiquities, "Of Gold and Shadows" is sure to be your cup of tea! 

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual rating: 4.5 stars

Of Gold and Shadows is a delight from start to finish. There’s something so magnetic and charming about Griep’s writing, and that was on full display here. I was immediately enchanted by her prose, her characters, and the world into which she placed them. The plot moves along at a steady clip, though the relationships being built are just as important as the story being told. This book was just exactly what I was hoping for when I reached for it.

In Victorian London, Egyptology is definitely a man’s game. Ami Dalton is determined to break into it anyway. The daughter of a renowned professor and archaeologist specializing in all things Egyptian, Ami was raised on stories that embedded within her heart a deep love for the region and its history. Her knowledge and expertise rival that of any man in her field. When Edward Price—business man, aspiring politician, and the most eligible bachelor in Oxford—needs someone to appraise a shipment of Egyptian artifacts, she jumps at the chance to prove herself. Both are determined to keep their relationship purely professional, but we all know how that story goes. But along their way to romance, nefarious villains, past hurts, and catty heiresses hinder their growth. Can they over come all of this hurdles—along with a potential Egyptian curse—and find happiness together?

My favorite aspects of this novel were the characters and the voice Griep adopted in the telling of her tale. Let’s start with the characters. Ami is an absolute delight. I love her spunk and her quick mind. I also love her complete lack of knowledge or care when it comes to fashion. She is a great balance of proper and scrappy, making her a really fun heroine who bucks against the cultural norms of her times while still maintaining a lovely sense of dignity. Ami is so passionate about history and artifacts and the preservation of both. She deeply loves her work. But even she is not entirely above superstition. However, she fights these brief lapses into superstition by leaning more firmly into her faith. Our male lead is Ami's polar opposite. Edmund is a well-to-do business owner and aspiring politician who attracts women like bees to honey. Which is unfortunate, as he seems to be allergic. I found him sweetly charming, and I was rooting for him as he battled the internal demons of his past, as well as a painful secret that impacted his everyday life.

There are similarities between the two that give them a deep bond, and differences between them that ensure interest and intrigue. Their banter is delightful right off the bat; it’s quippy and witty and pretty darn adorable. Both leads are ambitious in different ways, but those ambitions are largely for the benefit of others, not only themselves. They're each fighting imperialism in their own way, from inside the system. Even as they recognize their own privilege within it. They also share a strong sense of morality, both in their chosen fields and in their lives at large. That morality stems from a shared faith, which both parties take serious and which permeates their lives. Theirs is more than a Sunday faith. Much of the faith in the novel is expressed in the prayers of the central characters. Their prayers rang as heartfelt, especially those prayed in dire circumstances. There were also a few instances of discussion centered on faith that I found incredibly well presented.

And then there’s the writing. The voice and tone Griep chose to utilize perfectly suit the period. I found the telling of the story as charming and cozy as the story being told. I also appreciate the humor that courses through the narrative, and how it offsets some of the drama. The voice harkens back to the writings of the time period in which she set her story, but without ever feeling stuffy. I love that balance between historical and modern. At one point we are introduced to Ami’s hobby—the penning of short stories. The snippet of story within the story--Ami's writing--was beautifully written, in a far different voice than the main body. It really showcased Griep's skill.

I did have a couple of issues with the story, but they were very minor. There was a "twist" early on that I saw through immediately, and I was irritated that our main characters were blind to it for so long. The reveal for this was made in the last few pages of the book, and I thought that went on for far too long. I understand how it served the story, but it bothered me. My other small issues are some that I have with most historical romances. The romance itself was just a tad over the top. The crises around the 80% mark are also more than a touch overwrought. But this type of melodrama is par for the course with many--or even most--such period pieces. At least this was balanced by the sweetness and the humor, and didn't saturate the entire narrative.

Of Gold and Shadows is the second book I’ve read from Griep, and I can already tell that she’s going to be a new comfort author for me. I love her balance of humor and drama, of compelling plot and romance, and how faith courses through all of it. Of Gold and Shadows is the first installment in a loose duology, Time’s Lost Treasures, and I’m really looking forward to reading the second. In the meantime, I’m excited to dig into her back catalogue!

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading many books by this author, I had no doubt “Of Gold and Shadows” would be a great read!

I love a bit of mystery and intrigue in historical fiction, especially when the heroine isn’t typical for the time period. Ami is such a fun and unique character, and I liked her immediately. Edmund is just as interesting, and I enjoyed every moment of their journeys. Their romance is sweet, and their growth is evident and rewarding.

I don’t read a lot of Victorian-era novels, so the descriptions and period really stand out and paint a vivid picture. If you enjoy unique historical fiction stories with twists you didn’t see coming, lovely elements of faith and trust, believable and memorable characters, and threads of humor throughout, you won’t go wrong with this one!

First Line: Cemeteries always smelled of earthworms and damp dog fur, especially after a rain, and Brudge rather liked it that way.
Series: Time’s Lost Treasures
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Author: Michelle Griep
Page Count: 368

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
Opinions are 100% mine.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

1888 England

Delightful! Lovely start to a new Victorian series. Ami Dalton is far from the typical female. She's interested in mummies much more than live men.

Edmund Price is deemed Oxford's most eligible bachelor and he wants nothing to do with clinging females. His focus is a seat in Parliament.

When their paths cross, the fireworks begin.

[Carly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This had all of the usual banter, wit, and Gothic flair I've come to expect from Michelle's books! If you're someone who's fascinated by Egyptian history and well-researched books, this will be a very enjoyable read for you. The characters were delightful, but there were some things that I anticipated happening early on in the book, and I couldn't understand how the characters missed these things as they seemed so obvious to me! Other than a few things like that and what seemed to be a bit of a choppy romance, I really enjoyed this story, especially the faith elements of God's perfect will and power. I'm intrigued to see what the author will come up with to continue the series!

[Beauty in the Binding · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Of Gold and Shadows by Michelle Griep. Ami’s charming personality and her work as an Egyptologist drew me into the story. My interest continued to grow as the mystery/curse of the griffin appeared and created another layer. The author masterfully added in spiritual elements about God as a good, loving Father and finding one’s worth in the love of God rather than achievement. I also appreciated a theme about balancing preservation of the past with living in the present. A twist at the end surprised me and provided the happy ending for all. All-in-all, it was a beautiful story that held my attention throughout.

Of Gold and Shadows by Michelle Griep commences the Time’s Lost Treasures series, and I’m eager for the second installment. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy historical fiction with mystery, romance, and spiritual themes. Five stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ADORED this story! I absolutely love how quirky and different the heroine was. Ami is definitely a refreshing character--full of charm and independence that many in her time wouldn't have had. It's the whole (realistic) reason why she caught Edmund's eye.
And Edmund--he's the perfect cinnamon roll hero that was full of charm and charisma.
The plot was well-researched and extremely entertaining.
A great story, and lovely writing!

[Suzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for a captivating read this fall? Of Gold And Shadows is a must-read! This story is a perfect blend of adventure, intrigue, romance, and mystery, with a wonderful touch of faith and humor. The author's atmospheric writing transported me to another world, with villains, twists and turns, and cursed artifacts. It’s a page-turner that kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved it!

With excellent writing, fantastic character development, and a perfectly paced storyline, I highly recommend this book!

It’s the first book in the Times Lost Treasures series, and I can’t wait for book 2!

Thanks to Bethany House Publishing, NetGalley, and Austenprose PR for a copy!

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a Victorian mystery with Gothic elements then this is the book to add to those TBR lists! I really enjoyed the leading female character being an Egyptologist. Ami truly captures the quirkiness of the character and she is truly full of charm although utterly bright and extremely passionate in everything that she does. She just really wants to be seen for more than just a the daughter of an Egyptologist and professor and we see that develop throughout the story.

The male lead character is also quite charming. Edmund is not your typical socialite. He wants to sell these artifacts to help out a friend. He falls for Ami and their relationship blossoms throughout the story. I love how he is with her and truly sees her for who she is and dreams to be. He doesn't want to take away those dreams from her but rather see them to fruition.

Besides the romance which was super sweet and swoony at times, there is a bit of mystery that needs to be solved. Honestly I did not figure out the way the culprit came about until much later in the book. Which is good because it definitely kept the pages turning.

Overall I really enjoyed the story and can't wait to see if we see these characters once more in the second book of this duology. If you enjoy romance, mystery and faith threads then this is the book for you!

I received a copy of this book for review. All views expressed are my own.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun story! I love stuff about Egypt so it was cool that Amy is an Egyptologist. I loved how confident she was in her abilities. But she also goes into the danger of the Black Market. Edmund is a most eligible bachelor and is used to women throwing themselves at him so when he meets Amy it is refreshing to just have someone to talk to. Of course as they work together they grow closer. And then a mystery happens that they get to work on. There were a couple things I didn’t love, such as them reading each other’s palms and she seemed a little obsessed with his mouth haha. Overall I enjoyed this book, there was good Christian content as well as romance and a bit of mystery. I recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Content: palm reading, talk of curse

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Master storyteller Michelle Griep delivers another outstanding literary gift with Of Gold and Shadows. The captivating plot with unexpected, well-placed twists, mysterious happenings, and a surprising revelation kept me glued to the pages and “burning the midnight oil”! I was immersed in the “feels” of the story by the vividly sketched Victorian era settings. Whether cataloguing and pricing ancient Egyptian antiquities at Price Manor or shadow brokering in London’s menacing Angel Alley, danger and intrigue abound. The characters are well-crafted and believable. I love eccentric young heroine Ami and dashing hero Edmund. A bit of sweet romance and a gentle faith thread add interest and inspiration to the story. I totally enjoyed this well-researched, entertaining read and highly recommend it. The sneak peak of the next Time’s Lost Treasures offering is a pleasing bonus, and I look forward to reading Eva’s story.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publisher through Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Scott Rezer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although the female lead, Ami Dalton, is very reminiscent of Rachel Weisz’s character of Evelyn Carnahan in The Mummy—a movie I love— and Of Gold and Shadows was excellent, I still prefer Miss Griep’s Of Monsters and Men series. This one is fun and entertaining and very romantic. It was great read and I enjoyed it thoroughly. The poor bad guy comes across as more comical than sinister, and perhaps, that is intentional. An uproariously good read. Where is Of Silver and Secrets?!

[Dana Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

"If we are meant to be ”— she pulled back and collected his hand, pressing a kiss to his knuckles—“ then God’s will shall not be thwarted. He always makes a way.”

Michelle Griep's "Of Gold and Shadows" is a thrilling Victorian-era romance with hints of "The Mummy" and "Indiana Jones." The characters, storyline, and twists captivated me. This inspirational novel masterfully blends suspense and romance, ensuring an engaging read. I highly recommend it to historical romantic suspense enthusiasts, especially those who adore the Victorian era.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.

[Rachelle Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m blown away by how much I enjoyed this book and the snarky writing style. The twists and turns kept me turning pages (though I did guess about Gil!). Can’t wait for the sequel!

[Cait | GoodeyReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-3.75 stars

Thank you Bethany House for the gifted copy.

THOUGHTS.

BLOG || INSTAGRAM

I think this was a good book overall and it does have its audience. I do think that the audience isn’t quite me. Some aspects didn’t work for me, but some did.

I liked most of the scenes involving the two main leads, Ami and Edmund. There’s a lot of moments for them to get to know each other and when a book only has one main kissing scene you want it to deliver and it does. I thought they had wonderful chemistry. I also thought the historical aspects were interesting too.

It is a standalone and wraps up most things well. There was one plot point that threw me off about closing part of the story, the rest was good though. The faith elements were fairly well woven in too. It is a more moderate theme throughout.

Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Content Warnings: physical altercations, murder, weapons violence

[eyes.2c · Rating 4 out of 5]

Artefacts and dangerous acquisitiveness!

Ami Dalton moonlights as a Shadow Broker, dealing in Egyptian antiquities on the edges of places like convenient cemeteries. Out from that shadowy existence, Ami is the daughter of famed Oxford Professor, Archer Dalton, an archaeologist whose expertise is Egyptology. Under her father’s tutelage Ami too has become an expert in Egyptian artefacts. Not that that helps as Ami battles the prejudices against women of her very Victorian times. Ami’s passion is restoring plundered relics back to Egypt. If that’s not possible she brokers for smaller items to have them put in museums rather than private collections. Hence her work as the Shadow Broker.
Edmund Price is a successful business man returned from India to take charge of a shipment of Egyptian items that he wants catalogued and priced to sell to any interested collector at the highest price. He needs the money for an Indian friend to fight taxes the English parliament is about to place on Indian goods.
Edmund employs Ami to take charge of the process. He didn’t plan on being caught up in plans his English partner Gil Fletcher has for the collection. He didn’t plan on being manipulated into an engagement with Violet Bastion, the daughter of the influential Lord Bastion in exchange for a seat in parliament, and he definitely didn’t plan on being enthralled by the innocent, quick silvered, intelligent sprite of a woman that is Ami.
A lively read from Michelle Griep set in Victorian England amidst it’s flurry of desire for all things Egyptian. A love story hinting at the darker side of acquisitiveness, of addictions, of following mammon as a way to solve problems, and of the courage of listening to one’s heart’s direction.

A Bethany House ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.

[Scott County Library System · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review by librarian Christine Barth first appeared in the September 2024 issue of Library Journal.

Ami Dalton has been fired from her position at a finishing school in Victorian-era England for bringing a mummified cat to lessons. At least she still has her night job as the Shadow Broker, buying priceless Egyptian artifacts from criminals for the Ashmolean Museum.

A woman at odds with the Victorian ideal, Ami has little care for her appearance and even less care about finding a husband. Meanwhile, Edmund Price has returned from self-exile in India as one of the richest and most eligible bachelors in the empire. When a business deal goes bad, he is left with crates full of Egyptian artifacts to sell. Ami and Edmund find themselves allied against characters with nefarious motives even as a series of mysterious events at the Price mansion lend credence to the story of the curse of Anubis.

VERDICT Griep (The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane) delivers a romp that will leave a grin on readers' faces, especially those interested in archaeology. Read-alikes include The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green and Where We Belong by Lynn Austin.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK! No words. Michelle Griep is one of my favorite authors. I have loved every book of hers that I have read, but Of Gold and Shadows stole my heart in a way that I can't describe. Michelle Griep outdid herself with this unique story of history, faith, and romance.

Of Gold and Shadows is one of those books that will have you staring at the wall after you finish the last sentence, shocked by how beautiful the book truly was. Ever since I was little, I have always had a fascination with Egypt's history and archaeology. I don't know if I have ever read a book with a similar storyline, so this gem is one of the most well-written, unique books that I have ever read. Michelle Griep deserves a million awards for the vivid details she portrayed in this story. The details were so specific, so detailed that I felt like I was in the story myself.

Ami and Edmund. Their romance was the perfect blend of forced proximity and tension, which resulted in me not being able to put the book down because I couldn't wait to get to their next scene together. They can easily be in my top ten favorite book couples. I loved how Edmund cared and respected Ami for who she was from the first moment they met. Their relationship was wholesome. That is the best word to describe their sweet story.

I really want to write a review that is a mile (or five) long about my love for this book. Of Gold and Shadows brought me a sense of comfort that I have only had from a select number of books over the years. I won't forget this story of phenomenal beauty. If I can convince you to read any book, let it be this one. The next book in this series cannot release fast enough!