Not Quite Mr. Knightley

Not Quite #3

by Kim Griffin

A runaway bride
A marriage of convenience
A love worth fighting forWhile interning at the U.S. Embassy in London, Nancy Wilson, a spirited Southerner from Greenville, South Carolina, thought she’d found her very own Mr. Knightley—straight from the pages of Emma.

Yet on the eve of her wedding day, a devastating letter from her future father-in-law shatters her dreams, leaving her with a heart-wrenching decision. Opting to leave London, Nancy returns to the familiarity of Greenville, only to be haunted by regret and a longing to reclaim her lost love. After attempting reconciliation and facing an unexpected rejection, she questions everything she once believed.

Back home, Nancy must grapple with newfound challenges, testing her resilience and faith. Amidst her broken heart, she encounters a surprising proposal that could change her life forever—a marriage of convenience that may hold the key to finding her true Mr. Knightley. This tale of love, loss, and self-discovery will resonate with anyone who has ever yearned for a love story worth fighting for.

Set in 1970, Not Quite Mr. Knightley is the third book of the Not Quite Series and can be read as a standalone, though it’s best enjoyed after reading Not Quite Colonel Brandon. While not a retelling of Emma, this story contains elements Austen fans will appreciate.

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 8, 2025

About the author

Kim Griffin is a former interior designer and homeschool mom who has been leading Bible studies for over 35 years and working in Women's Ministry for over 25.  Several years ago, God led her to begin writing words of hope.  She writes Christian women's fiction with clean romance and devotionals/Bible studies. Her desire is that her books will draw readers closer to the God who sees all of their imperfections and loves them still. 

Reviews

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Quiet Mr. Knightley is the second book I have read by Kim Griffin, and it was great. Once again, she has written a book in which I connected with the characters on such a deep level that when I got to the end, I had to pause for a moment to say goodbye.

The character development was great. Nancy goes through quite the refiner’s fire. I love watching God work in her life as she goes through heartache and overcoming the consequences of her sin. Walt is such a caring guy. I loved watching him grow as a husband and faith.

The storyline was great. I loved that though Nancy's sin was more evident, Walt shared his past with his wife. Even though they had some hurdles to overcome, they were able to make things work.

The romance was good. Very low spice, the marriage of convenience, boy/girl next door trope was a slow burn, but I loved seeing it all work out.

Once again, Kim Griffin did such a great job intertwining faith throughout the whole novel. I came away refreshed and encouraged in my faith.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

[Carlee Nichole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book actually ended up surprising me. I didn't expect the storyline. I enjoyed the love story between Walt and Nancy. It was sweet and also interesting. This author does a wonderful job at putting scripture into her stories and she does it well. The Bible studies and conversations people have about scripture are great and realistic to what it would like in real life.

This part of the review may have spoilers!

I didn't realize that this book was going to be a pro life book or about pregnancy, it was unexpected. I feel like she did a good job at being pro life without it coming across as in your face. I was glad that they chose life.

I was glad that the author had the characters realize that they needed to protect their marriage and have boundaries with the opposite sex. Some people may find it overboard, but as a married woman whose experienced the issues of not having boundaries and the damage it does in a marriage, I found it refreshing that the characters stopped and didn't continue down a bad path.

It was a sweet read and well written, with a happy ending.

[Jennifer Hunt]

This was a sweet story about a new marriage that started out pretty troubled. By looking to Jesus instead of one another, the husband and wife were able to find healing for themselves and their relationship. I appreciated the pro-life themes throughout this novel. Griffin uses lots of Scripture throughout, making this book a great choice for a book club or Bible study. Loved how everything came full circle in the epilogue.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With each book that Kim Griffin writes, I can see God’s Hand in her writing, with each story better than the last, being Full of Boldness regarding God’s Truth and is unashamed to tell it! Ms. Griffin’s latest release Not Quite Mr. Knightley is the third book in Ms. Griffin’s Not Quite Series. Set in the 1970s, Not Quite Mr. Knightley takes pieces from the second book in the Not Quite Series, Not Quite Colonel Brandon, by telling the story of Nancy, a young woman who has a job with US Embassy in London. A few months after starting her job, Nancy abandons her post after learning that the Family of Henry, the man she intends on marrying, wants nothing to do with her. Soon after retuning back to the United State, Nancy realizes she is pregnant with Henry’s child. Believing that Henry wants nothing to do with her or their child, Nancy is given the offer of a lifetime when her childhood crush and next door neighbor, Walt, asks Nancy to marry him, wanting to raise Nancy’s baby as his own. With the world already stacked against them, Nancy and Walt are determined to base their marriage on a Foundation in the Lord, Trusting in God’s Will despite things looking different than He intended and showing Nancy and Walt God truly does use everything for His good.

I love Not Quite Mr. Knightley from beginning to end! Having read all of Kim Griffin’s fiction books, I have seen through her writing how much Ms. Griffin has grown not only as a writer, but in the Lord. Having read all of the books in the Not Quite Series, I love how Ms. Griffin incorporated characters from the previous books in the series into Not Quite Mr. Knightley. I also love that Ms. Griffin branched out into a historical novel by having Not Quite Mr. Knightley set in the 1970s and I believe she did a beautiful job. In the 1970s sense, it was reminiscent of books by Jennifer Lynn Cary, which I loved! I love meeting Nancy! I love the Grace that was extended to Nancy by those who Love her most, not holding her mistakes and sins against Nancy or her Child. I love the way pregnancy was approached in the book, making a child a blessing and not a choice. I love how Nancy accepted the gift that Walt was giving her of Marriage and her Child a Father. I love Walt’s character and integrity! I believe Walt showed Nancy Jesus in an unbelievable way and, at the same time, was transparent with his own humanity and transgressions, wanting to lead the family God entrusted him with, God’s Way. Seeing the way Walt and other Seasoned Christians approach their Relationship with Christ with hunger and excitement, inspired Nancy to want and actually do the same. I love how Walt and Nancy worked on their Marriage together, having nightly Devotions and praying together in everything. I loved reading those scenes and gleaned a lot from how Nancy and Walt each saw Scriptures. I’m also thankful that Ms. Griffin continues to standup for Godly Truths in regards to how God expects us to handle our relationships with one another. I am confident when I read a book by Kim Griffin that it will be soaked in God’s Truth and give me encouragement to be better in Christ and still give me an escape that I need. I highly recommend Not Quite Mr. Knightley by Kim Griffin!

Have you read Not Quite Mr. Knightley? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank Kim Griffin for giving me a copy of Not Quite Mr. Knightley to review, for giving me the information I needed for this post, and for letting me be on the ARC Team. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My review is also on my blog Leslie's Library Escape.

[Oruare Ojimadu · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I realized that Not Quite Mr Knightley by Kim Griffin was part of a series, I decided to read the previous books first and I was glad I did. It definitely made Nancy and Walt's story more robust.
The author took issues that cause great concern even today and weaved a story of hope, love, forgiveness and a new beginning. The way Walt came through for Nancy, the strength of character is simply amazing. A marriage of convenience, supportive parents, genuine friendly neighbors made the journey to love and a beautiful home easy.
The gradual way Nancy learnt to forgive herself, work on her insecurities and drew closer to God made this book worth reading. Even when it seemed some challenges came to threaten the stability of their new home, the maturity with which Walt and Nancy handled it is a lesson learnt.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am super glad Nancy's story got to be told and Henry got closure. The beautiful way the author interwove the past with the future is a reminder to us that the past, present and future is interwoven. The prayer of Nancy was answered many years later. No matter how long, there is an answer to a heartfelt prayer.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Heidi Sjostrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is definitely my favorite in the Not Quite series by Kim Griffin. I adored this tender marriage of convenience set in 1970. Not Quite Mr. Knightley covers the themes of unplanned pregnancy, sanctity of life and marriage, and the forgiveness and restoration Christ offers.

Nancy has returned from London running from her whirlwind romance only to discover she’s pregnant. Next door neighbor and childhood crush, Walt, steps up to help with an offer of marriage. I fell in love with Walt from the moment he showed up on the page. His spiritual maturity helped ground and strengthen Nancy’s shaky faith after her sin. Loved the tender message and example of those in her life that displayed Christ’s love and forgiveness - embracing and restoring her without judgment. Because of the unconventional start, Walt and Nancy had to really work to make their marriage successful. I appreciated the example of a husband and wife working to extend understanding and grace to the other and working to build a solid foundation in Christ. I especially loved Fanny Butler as a spiritual mentor for Nancy. She came alongside Nancy and helped her in those early days of marriage. A very sweet romance. Definitely recommend.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC from the author. No positive review was required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tabitha Birtch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book of redemption, mercy and the grace of Jesus through people. My heart is sad to see the story end, I want to know everything about these characters and family and the journey through life’s challenges. Of course my heart swoons at the Emma inspiration and delights in the twists and differences too! Absolutely recommend this one!

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not quite Mr Knightley is a satisfying read, looking at the complexities of love and failings and redemption.

Another well written story by author Kim Griffin, with ups and downs and paths you don’t always see coming.

Kim writes characters and storylines with Biblical truth. She doesn’t make God out to be a magic genie who grants wishes, and she gets her salvation theology spot on. This is vital and rare.
Kim’s books always help the reader learn about life and God, guiding them in Biblical wisdom. There are moments in this book where you feel the characters are going down the wrong path but they learn and grow and end up in a better place in their relationships, esp with God.

Sometimes the language comes across stilted, not how people would talk in real life. ‘Yes, you are that woman’.

And Walt oscillates between being too good to be true and a little controlling. And it feels a little like the characters are perceiving marriage threats at every juncture.

The declaration of love is very satisfying and long awaited.

I think I would have liked a little more on the life stance, like Nancy realising that the baby is a life and she doesn’t have the right to take life simply because it doesn’t suit her to have a child.

I really like the resolution and didn’t expect it.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nancy was living her dream. An internship at the U.S. Embassy in London, and a handsome My. Knightley fiance.
But when she reads a letter from her future father-in-law, her house of cards comes crumbling down. She packs up and runs, but once home realizes she didn't leave it all behind her. A quick proposal from the boy next door has her life turning in unexpected directions.
This book is wonderful at showing how to set boundaries to protect a marriage, how important respect and honor are inside the marriage, and how important life itself is.
Kim Griffin is one of the best Christian authors I read. She always puts true scriptural lessons in the pages, and not just superficially. We can all learn from Nancy's beautiful story, about repentance and faith and God's love, as well as how love should be lived out towards others. It truly was a wonderful book to get wrapped up in.

[Lisa Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story of love, finding grace, and finding God’s unending forgiveness. Nancy and Walt’s story was born from years of friendship and unknown reciprocal feelings. I absolutely loved how their story unfolded and Griffin made the Gospel and the Bible a constant throughout the whole book.


I received this book as an ARC. I was not required to write a positive review, all thoughts are my own.

[Ellen Dominguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sweet romance which looked at people who made some mistakes but still found redemption and love. This book deals with unplanned pregnancies and abortion from a compassionate, Christian perspective. I give this book 5 stars. I receive a review copy of this book from the author.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story of watching Nancy and Walt work through some difficult situations, protecting their marriage and having Christ at the center of their relationship. Kim has a great way of weaving a lot of scripture, prayer and real life situations into her books.

[Mary Watson · Rating 2 out of 5]

2⭐️ ARC Review: This book was not what I was expecting. It’s not a bad book. It’s well written. It’s mature. It just was not for me.

I just felt like this book was a bit strange. The conversations between the main characters were stiff and unrealistic. Not very organic.

I also had issues with the MMC Walt. Pretty bossy guy. Almost a bit manipulative. I didn’t like him. I thought he was going to be sweet. And he was at times, but some of the things he said and did were extremely off-putting.

For example. I did not love the fact that Walt talked to Nancy’s dad about their physical relationship. And then the dad convinced Walt to abstain and sleep in a separate bedroom from his wife. That was so so strange to me. Parents should NOT be involved or influence you when it comes to your marriage. It is between you, your spouse, and God.

He also kept so many secrets from her and would then get angry and “disappointed” when she didn’t share things with him. Ugh. Also, his need to “talk to God first” before he shared things with her also bugged me. You have a spouse. Talk together and pray to God together.

I want to preface by saying I am a Christian. I enjoy books with soft Christianity themes. There is a time and place. But this one felt, honestly, like I was just reading scripture. There was so much prayer. They prayed over everything. And lots of bible study sessions. It was a lot. I knew this book was a Christian romance when I applied for the ARC, but I think it ended up being too much for me.

I also didn’t like the ending. The ending for Walt and Nancy was fine, but I think that epilogue was completely unnecessary, and honestly heartbreaking. I know that’s an unpopular opinion for those who have read this, but I don’t know. Not a fan.

I know I said so many negative things. There are some redeeming qualities. I liked the overarching theme of being forgiven for your sins and not being too far from God’s Grace. I just think the author and I believe different things when it comes to religion and being Christian.

I didn’t enjoy this like I’d hoped. The whole story, the plot, the characters, it all just didn’t work for me. But if you like Christian romance, heavy on the Christian aspects, this would definitely be for you.

*Thank you to the author, Kim Griffin, for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read if you enjoy:
- Accidental pregnancy
- Marriage of convenience
- Friends to lovers
- Single POV (FMC)
- Christian romance

Content 💋:
- Kisses only (They are married, so sex is implied, but it isn’t fade to black or explicit)
- No language

[Hannah Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was very thought provoking and deep, while telling a sweet love story.

It is 1970 and Nancy runs away from England and her groom. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Nancy’s child hood crush and neighbor offers a marriage of convenience. Will jealousy and insecurities come between them or can Nancy and Walt build a marriage that will last?

Highlights:
Proposal is sweet
Decorating the Christmas tree
The value of prayer

I love Nancy because she is sweet and wants to help others.

I love Walt for being gentle and patient. I love that he is honorable and very decisive.

“You can’t say sweet things like I’m your queen and not expect me to kiss you,”

Disclosures: kisses, discussion of ab0rtion, implied marital relations (straight to black)
This is an ARC, all thoughts and feelings are my own.

[Myra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping tale of enduring love from the depths of some of the harsh realities of life. Through it all, a runaway bride, a marriage of convenience, and discovering a love worth fighting for, Griffin weaves an awesome picture of Christ’s love for each of us. The book both encourages and convicts the heart, prepare yourselves for the journey, it is totally worth it!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet marriage of convenience story that avoids all the pitfalls of that trope (miscommunication is the worst!). These characters are friends and build their relationship to more piece by piece in a believable way. They are kind and caring towards each other and I really enjoyed watching their story unfold.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a heartwarming, tender, Christ-centred, and wonderful depiction of a Christian marriage between Nancy and Walt, with some twists and turns. I hadn’t read many books set in this time period before so it was interesting to see the difference in opinion and societal views on things such as unwed pregnancy. As always this book was filled with Jesus and Scripture which is what I love in Kim Griffin’s books. Walt was not perfect but he was so wonderful to Nancy, and Nancy showed realistic character growth and a realistic faith arc. Thanks to the author for my ARC; all opinions are mine.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not Quite Mr. Knightley was such a beautiful surprise. While I have always loved the marriage of convenience trope, this story went far deeper than most. It did not stay on the surface but instead explored faith with honesty and depth, showing what it looks like when two imperfect people strive to honor God in their marriage. I found myself both encouraged and inspired, and I am very excited to read more from this author. I truly feel blessed to have discovered her work.

[Cadence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Quite Mr. Knightley is a Christian fiction/ romance that takes place in the 1970s. We have a young woman who is trying to reconcile some recent choices that lead to her life completely changing, and a young man who steps up to offer his help in a way most wouldn't even consider.

I really love Kim Griffin's writing. This book is beautifully written, just like the last one I read by her. She knows how to write a story with some pain and hardships while still leaving hope for the reader. This book is an amazing example of the grace and compassion we should show others on a daily basis. Instead of giving our judgement we should offer our love and help where we can.

Not Quite Mr.Knightley shows us about the importance of not only forgiving others but also forgiving ourselves. If you are a fan of Christian fiction I would definitely recommend checking this one out, as well as Kim's other works.

4.5 stars rounded up

I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts.