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The Bird of Bedford Manor

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Bedfordshire, England, 1820: Ruined by the sins of her father, Juliet Finch is cast into a life of self-reliance. Survival is a harsh taskmaster, but she is a quick learner and excels at tracking and snaring wild game to feed herself. Juliet embraces her new identity until the day Henry Russell catches her poaching on his land—a crime punishable by death. Henry, however, has other offenses on his namely, the troublesome stalker who’s making a misery of his sister’s life. To try to put a stop to her torment, Henry charges Juliet with tracking the elusive villain so he can be brought to justice. Using her skills, Juliet hunts down the rogue. . .but may just become the prey herself.
 
Reader favorite Michelle Griep has penned yet another masterpiece with this page-turning adventure that has it romanceclever turn-of-phrasecolorfully memorable characterscharming British setting

354 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2026

23 people are currently reading
1902 people want to read

About the author

Michelle Griep

43 books2,724 followers
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?

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5 stars
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21 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
Profile Image for Jenelle Hovde.
Author 13 books522 followers
February 20, 2026
I won a Goodreads giveaway!!! Woohoo!! I'm off to read, friends :).
Profile Image for Gracie Schlabach .
360 reviews10 followers
February 16, 2026
Reread via audiobook on 2-15-26: Remains 5 stars, so well done!
5 stars, such a well done story! I think every book I read by Griep gets better and better, I know I say it every single time, but nobody writes characters needing redemption like Griep does. Even the villains have a heart it seems that needs mending and you truly hope they mend, instead of mere justice. The faith content was well done, seeing the characters growing in their faith as they realize life cannot be done without God and only God can rule the day and the night seasons so who are we to yank the reigns away so often?! Loved it loved it loved it! I so look foward to owning this one on my shelfs when it releases, I already had my husband promise he would buy it for my birthday which is close to the release date of Feb 2026.
Thank you netgalley and barbour for my ARC ebook, this is truly my honest rating. LOVED it. In case you didn't catch that before. 😉
Profile Image for Sarita.
1,549 reviews655 followers
February 6, 2026
“She smelled of the air just before a rain, hinting at storms and life and promise.”

Michelle Griep penned another regency mystery which grabbed and held my attention with her beautiful descriptive writing, interesting characters and mystery to solve.

Juliet grabbed my heartstrings from the start with her fighting spirit and doing what she needed to survive. Even when she found herself in a destitute situation, she fought to survive. Henry’s battle to prove to himself that he can protect and solve problems created high expectations, stress and anxiety.

I loved the scene between Henry and his father and how a proper conversation eased the weight on his shoulders.

There was a diversified cast of characters which all brought their own uniqueness and suspicions to the story. I did suspect the person behind everything, but enjoyed the journey to see how Juliet had to climb to the top for the person behind everything had to be captured.

This story will entertain readers while making one remember to look deeper than face value and to dig deeper.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Profile Image for Becky Lewis.
1,083 reviews63 followers
February 8, 2026
Oh, my stars! It’s amazed I am. The story, the twists, the villians, the red herrings, the faith nuggets plainly on display.
Michelle Griep’s singular gripping storytelling abilities, married with her ability to authentically transport us back in time to Regency England had me salivating at the first sentences. I had trouble getting through the book, but probably not why you might think. Not only are the characters relatable and endearing, but the linguistic paintbrush Griep employs so beautifully caused me to stop and reread many a sentence. “She was like a caged falcon, barely restrained, her sharp green eyes always moving, calculating, waiting for the right moment to fly away.” Or “The place was naught but a collection of boards leaning against one another like drunkards, each seeming to hold up the other by sheer accident.” I just had to sit for a while and take in the beauty of that carefully formulated prose!

The story itself is a great one. Caught poaching on manor land, Juliet is offered a solution other than the hangman’s noose. Her benefactor, Henry Russell, pardons her on the condition she hunt for him. He wants Juliet to discover who is terrorizing his sister, Charity. “Who better to hunt for a man than a hunter? And a female one at that?”

Several characters in the novel totally surprised me. I love a mystery that is twisted enough I can’t figure it out, and the personalities involved seem to perform out of character. However, in the end, it all makes sense, even though my deduction skills weren’t equal to the task. Bravo, Ms. Griep! It was such an exciting, fun journey, I don’t think I can read another book because of the hangover from this one! Definitely my fave Griep novel yet!!

Could I ever relate to Henry in his understanding of a childhood event. I wonder how many adults look back at some childhood event with completely different eyes, sometimes not until someone shows us another perspective.

Don’t miss this fantastic book! I look forward to it to be a 2026 fave of mine.

I received a copy of the book from Barbour Books and NetGalley. I also bought my own copy, because…the Keeper Shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“…tell me why you cannot trust me.”
“Because you have the power to undo me.” - Juliet, Henry

“I am sure you suffer more from my filthy state than I do.” - Juliet -[such well-placed humor!]

“Many a lie is garbled as truism.”- Henry

“Your past- no matter how tragic- does not define who you are.” Henry

“A bull in a china shop only alerts every teacup to its doom.” - Juliet

“Anything good in me—any strength or virtue—comes from God alone. Without Him, I would not even try to do what is right. And that is the thing…“The truth is none of us are good on our own. Every last one of us falls short.”- Henry
Profile Image for Laur.
743 reviews126 followers
December 4, 2025
Juliet Finch is in survival mood. Literally! Poor, hungry, and taking care of a sickly Aunt, she is forced to track and snare wild game to keep from starvation. Only problem is poaching on someone else’s land is viewed as a terrible crime in 1820 England, punishable by death. In an unfortunate circumstance one night, she is eventually caught and brought before the land’s owner, Henry Russell.

Henry has met Juliet once before having eluded him. Secretly he admires her tracking skills and wants to use it to his advantage, so bargains with her. The bargain? To stay in his household (leaving her Aunt on her own) where she will work for him for how ever long it takes to tract down a villain who is terrifying his sister., or get turned into the constables where the law will surely condemn her. She again is in survival mode for what other choice does she have?

The Bird of Bedford Manor is a well written mystery with solid adventure, vivid characters, and unexpected romance - all set to an ideal pace.

4 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️

My thanks to NetGalley,, Michelle Grier, and Barbour Fiction for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee).
856 reviews381 followers
February 21, 2026
4.5 stars!

This was a great story! I loved how strong the faith content was. These characters go through some tough situations. Juliet has fallen on hard times and is poaching on Henry’s land for survival. When they meet, instead of having her arrested he asks for her help to track down who is tormenting his sister. It’s definitely dangerous because they don’t know who they are dealing with. I liked Henry and Juliet together. I felt bad for Juliet being falsely accused. I figured out who was behind it all very quickly but I’m sure not everyone will and it doesn’t ruin the story in the least. I really enjoyed it and recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Jeanne Alfveby Crea.
996 reviews108 followers
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
January 19, 2026
I absolutely loved The Bird of Bedford Manor by Michelle Griep. I read until I finished at 430 am if that tells you how I couldn't put it down. ❤️

O Henry, what a sweet hero, who is entirely too hard on himself and very protective to those he loves.

"Juliet Finch wondered how much longer the stretch of wood and field beyond their mean cottage would sustain her and Aunt Margaret." Juliet's life of ease abruptly changed when her father was convicted of fraud and put in jail, and she hasn't been able to shake the betrayal and her bitterness. To keep herself and her ailing aunt alive she poaches on a neighboring estate, a crime punishable by death.

Henry Russell has been put in charge of the estate while his father is away on an extended trip. His groundskeeper has not been able to catch the poacher on his land, and his sister is being terrorized by someone leaving her threatening notes, flowers, and even taking something out of her room! No wonder she feels threatened. After finally catching the poacher, Henry has an unconventional idea and enlists Juliet in tracking down the person terrorizing his sister.

I loved the twists and turns, and surprises. What a delightful tale of mystery, connection, family, an inconveniently timed, but such a sweet romance, and heroic efforts for a loved one. I absolutely couldn't put it down.

Lovers of historical fiction and historical romance will love this one! I highly recommend it!

Thank you also to the author, Net Galley, and Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own!
Profile Image for Alicia.
116 reviews3 followers
March 6, 2026
The Bird of Bedford Manor is my first Michelle Griep book, and I will now add all her books to my reading list.

“She was reborn that day of dust and wind, and with tangles in her hair and a hard-cracked soul.”

Juliet Finch is desperate to feed herself and her aunt who is unwell. After falling on hard times, she takes a risk and begins poaching game to feed them both from a neighboring manor.

Henry Russell is managing the estate while his father is away. He is determined to catch whoever is tormenting his sister and the poacher on his land.

Set in 1820, the story is a perfect mix of mystery, romance and faith that drew me in from the beginning and kept me turning pages. I loved the twists and turns, as well as the way the romance developed throughout the story. I will say I had high suspicions of who the stalker was in the first part of the story –but even with that, I was able to enjoy the book thoroughly.

Many thanks to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Alicia (aliciasbooksanctuary).
367 reviews71 followers
March 3, 2026
OVERALL STAR RATING: 4/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5

Right from the start you’re going to be amazed at the strong FMC in this regency novel! Juliet Finch is in survival mode and will stop at no cost to keep herself and her beloved aunt from starvation. Realizing and understanding the story of Juliet’s past and how she fell into such poverty and desperation is heartbreaking, but she refuses to go down without fighting for her life. There are so many unexpected twists and turns in this beautiful book – full of mystery and intrigue – this story is anything but boring. You’ll be wowed by this author’s ability to pen an adventurous novel full of suspense and equal amounts of swoon.

Juliet is caught poaching on Henry Russell’s property of Bedford Manor. She knows this is illegal, but catching wild game is the only way she’s going to keep her and her aunt alive. It’s a risk she’s willing to take. She is masterful at the catch but still winds up caught herself. Henry shows mercy to Juliet and offers her the opportunity to remain free from the authorities and death penalty if she agrees to help him hunt down the stalker who seems bent on destroying his sister Charity’s life.

Trying to figure out who can and can’t be trusted in this story makes for an incredible reading experience. The twists, the faith, the redemption, the hope and romance are all perfectly layered. Don’t hesitate to get this one onto your TBR if you’re a fan of Regency. A wonderful work of fiction and I look forward to reading more from Michelle in the near future.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Kelly Bridgewater.
1,217 reviews63 followers
February 25, 2026
The Bird of Bedford Manor by Michelle Griep is a mystery that keeps readers guessing. I love how Griep takes the heroine and makes her strong, independent, yet resilent in being able to survive. The plot takes a different approach when the hero captures her poaching on his land. Majority of the plot focuses on a mystery that draws the heroine and the hero into the throws of romance. The romance is sweet, yet enduring. I adore how Griep makes her heroes realize the worth of a woman, especially in the ages that she puts her characters into. Most woman were not seen as intelligent characters, but Griep allows bright and intelligent woman characters to shine on the pages of the story. I love the setting with the Regency era. Griep does a wonderful job at describing the setting and placing the characters into this world. So well that as a reader we will feel like we are walking the halls of this estate and watching the events unfold. Overall, The Bird of Bedford Manor by Michelle Griep will delight readers who enjoy mysteries in their Regency stories.

I received a complimentary copy of The Bird of Bedford Manor by Michelle Griep by Barbour Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Profile Image for Aline Guedes.
59 reviews4 followers
February 7, 2026
Michelle Griep beautifully brings the 19th century to life, especially highlighting the challenges faced by the lower class—and even more so by women during that time. The historical setting feels rich and immersive, making it easy to step into the world she created.

What stood out most to me was how faith was woven into the story. The book gently reminds us of the danger of trying to handle everything on our own and the importance of letting go and trusting God, especially in moments of fear and uncertainty. That message felt both timely and encouraging.

And then there’s the mystery—so well done! It kept me fully engaged, and the reveal truly surprised me. The culprit was not who I expected, which made the ending even more satisfying.

Thank you to Barbour Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to leave a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Profile Image for Karen R.
755 reviews96 followers
December 2, 2025
A Regency era tale with a mystery to solve and a sweet, clean romance. Set in 1820 England, the story begins in a dark wood and finally ends in the sunlight after a few plot twists and turns along the way.

"Your past--no matter how tragic--does not define who you are."

Michelle Griep writes with a flare all her own--a little bit of Dickens, Austen and a touch of Bronte. Unusual characters pop in and out adding color to the village life. The main characters struggle through difficult and dangerous situations, overcoming with help from above, family and community. It kept me wondering where their paths would end up after the mystery was solved.

Juliet's dilemma was especially heart-wrenching at times. She bore it well considering all she had lost, but ultimately the hardship broke down the wall of unforgiveness that held her back, restoring her faith in God and peace. Henry also had some hard lessons to learn about pride and control. The author does a good job showing their different perspectives.

Thorough notes and a bibliography are included to back up the history behind the story. It was interesting to read about the apothecaries and their role in medicine at the time.
Recommend to readers who enjoy historical fiction with inspiration, mystery and clean romance. 4.5 stars

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)


Profile Image for DevotedToHope.
707 reviews102 followers
March 9, 2026
Michelle Griep’s storytelling draws readers into a world filled with mystery, danger, and unexpected alliances. Bedford Manor itself seems to hold secrets within its walls while lives intersect in ways none of the characters could have anticipated. Through the twists of the story runs a deeper thread of faith and redemption, reminding us that strength, virtue, and the desire to do what is right grow through the work God does within a willing heart.

Those drawn to historical fiction that explores redemption, faith, and the quiet work God does within wounded hearts will appreciate this story.

Every so often a story reaches into the quiet places of the heart where old wounds and unanswered longings have been resting far too long. The Bird of Bedford Manor carried me into that space. The countryside surrounding Bedford Manor holds both beauty and shadow—rolling fields and watchful woods shaped by choices that cannot easily be undone. Beneath it all rests the sense of a soul pressed down by circumstances and memory, like a bird aware of the sky yet confined within the narrow limits of a damaged cage.

Juliet Finch’s struggle begins long before the walls close around her. A father’s betrayal, years of hardship, and the constant fight to survive have shaped her into someone resilient and watchful. The story slowly reveals the deeper burdens she carries within her heart.

Juliet thought the prison walls defined her captivity, yet the deeper struggle unfolding in that cell becomes the quiet surrender of a heart finally willing to face the truth before God. Sitting in the dimness of the prison cell, surrounded by damp stone and the weight of her past, Juliet’s thoughts wander to Scripture:

“Three days in the belly of a fish. Three in a cold stone tomb… Who was she fooling? She was not a prophet or a saviour. She was just a girl in a cage awaiting a fate she was powerless to stop.” In that moment Juliet sees herself plainly—a young woman who has carried pain, disappointment, and questions for years. The honesty of that realization opens the door to something deeper.

“I forgive you, Father… I forgive all of it. The betrayal. The lies. Everything… Oh, Lord, pardon my own transgressions.”
The prison door does not swing open. The cold air remains. The walls stand exactly where they stood before.
Yet something inside Juliet changes.

“The door did not magically swing open… But despite all that… the tightness in her chest loosened… Peace.”
The cell door did not open that night. Yet when Juliet finally spoke the truth before God and released what she had been carrying, something inside her did. That quiet freedom carried more weight than any escape.

Repentance often begins in the stillness—in the hidden places where a heart speaks honestly before the Lord. Grace meets a soul there. The tightness begins to loosen. Breath returns. Peace follows close behind.

A heart once pressed down by its burdens begins to feel something new stirring within it… like a bird remembering the open sky after far too long inside a dilapidated cage.

Sometimes the first true freedom begins the moment a soul finally turns toward God.

I received a paperback of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. 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.
Profile Image for Cover Lover Book Review.
1,533 reviews89 followers
February 17, 2026
The Bird of Bedford Manor starts with an unforgettable first sentence and quickly moves into an exciting story of romance and adventure set in lively 1800s England.

Juliet is brave, strong and determined, making it easy to relate to her. I was drawn into her life, empathized with her feelings, and loved witnessing her change. Henry is another compelling character who is motivated and sometimes feels a bit severe. Yet their smoldering romance, tough challenges, and building faith makes this journey shows you how people can grow and be redeemed.

Not only is this a wonderful story, but the writing is beautiful too. Many lines made me pause and sigh…

“She was reborn that day of dust and wind, with tangles in her hair and a hard-cracked soul.”

“She was like a caged falcon, barely restrained, her sharp green eyes always moving, calculating, waiting for the right moment to fly away.”

“How exactly did one navigate the delicate balance between being a houseguest and a disgraced poacher.”

“Your past—no matter how tragic—does not define who you are.”


Griep writes in a clear and beautiful way, which is why I never pass up on one of her books. With themes of strength, faith, survival, and finding hope again, this story offers a satisfying end.

First Line: She was reborn that day of dust and wind, with tangles in her hair and a hard-cracked soul.
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Author: Michelle Griep
Page Count: 320

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Christy.
1,325 reviews69 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
January 15, 2026
I utterly adored The Bird of Bedford Manor! I’ve loved every Michelle Griep book I’ve read, and now that I’ve finished this one, I’m ready for her to write her next one so I can read it!

What would you be willing to do to keep a loved one, and yourself, from starving. Well, if you lived in 1820, the year in which this is set, you’d probably be tempted to try poaching even though you knew the punishment could be death. When Juliet is caught poaching on Henry Russell’s land, she’s met with leniency…with a caveat. Henry asks for her help in finding his sister’s stalker. This leads to the beginning of a friendship developed through working in close proximity with Juliet as they try to solve the mystery. And that friendship develops into more as time passes. Juliet is truly Henry’s match in every way. She’s smart, witty, clever, and kind. She puts others’ needs ahead of her own. Henry is all kinds of swoon-worthy. He is very protective of his sister and of their manor while their father is away. He’s charming and kind. Henry’s sister, Juliet’s aunt, and several other side characters are just as layered as Juliet and Henry. None is perfect by any means, and it’s their flaws that make them real.

Juliet has struggled in her faith since being betrayed by those closest to her in her “former” life. She holds on to bitterness, and oh, don’t we love to hold our grudges. However, we’re commanded to forgive and receive the blessing of peace that comes with that. I loved how this played out in Juliet’s life.

If you’re a fan of inspirational Regency romance, The Bird of Bedford Manor by Michelle Griep is a must-read for you. I highly recommend it for its Regency England setting, wonderful characters, mystery, strong inspirational themes, and its lovely romance!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Charity.
633 reviews85 followers
March 16, 2026
What can I say except I loved it? Every time I read a book by Michelle Griep, I get lost in the story. Not lost like I'm confused, but lost to real life. It grips me and sucks me in each time.

I'm the one who ended up broke and nearly alone, struggling for survival. I'm the one who was discovered. I'm the one who has to do the tracking. And yet, I'm also somehow Henry, needing to protect those under his roof.

See? She drags me right into the middle of the story, though I'm not exactly kicking and screaming.

And Henry's sister? Yeah, I adored her too. How could I not? 😉
Profile Image for Kailey.
798 reviews95 followers
February 5, 2026
This was such a fun mix of Faith, romance, and suspense. I always adore Michelle Griep’s characters. I love her spunky heroine and realistic heroes. I enjoyed this book so much that I read the whole thing in a weekend. I would highly recommend this one!


I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Profile Image for Courtney Pityer.
870 reviews55 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 29, 2026
The Bird of Bedford Manor is a historical fiction novel set in 1820. I will say that this novel was very intriguing and full of mystery. Not the mention the characters were very well drawn out! Michelle Griep does not disappoint readers with her well crafted stories. You have to admit the survival methods people used to get by were very well thought out.

We are introduced to Juliet who lives with her aunt and is trying to get by when it comes to food. However, her methods include poaching which is actually illegal. When she is caught on the land of a well to do land owner Henry who is quite amazed by her tracking abilities he offers a proposition to help find the rogue who is terrorizing his sister.

It isn't a easy task but it is something that needs to be done. Will this task bring new opportunities for Juliet to make a better life for herself?
Profile Image for Brandi.
1,431 reviews37 followers
February 17, 2026
This may be Bedfordshire, England, 1820, where a great many stories have taken place and captured the heart of many reading fans, but this is not your average story. Juliet is definitely not your typical heroine, and it works! I love her steel resolve and willingness to do what it takes to provider her aunt. Even when caught by Henry, she is willing to do what needs to be done because she cares well for others. She is a forward thinker who is willing to stand up for justice. She is kind, caring, and very intelligent. I loved seeing her win over Henry and his family. It was even more powerful when class lines are crossed and true love trumps. The mystery is well written and easily kept me turning the pages. While I may have been able to guess the villain early on, it was the story development that was so enjoyable. It was delightful to watch the dynamic shift to mutual respect, to friendship, then on to love. I appreciated the way Juliet and Henry balanced and complimented each other. A captivating story with a delightful conclusion. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
Profile Image for Sophia.
Author 5 books407 followers
Read
January 28, 2026
To survive and look after her aunt, Juliet Finch poaches for food, but is caught in this deadly crime and given an unusual alternative to being turned in- find who’s stalking the estate owner’s sister. Michelle Griep’s inspirational historical romantic suspenses have been on my radar for some time. Finally, I had the chance to give her work a go and, yes, I waited far too long for the treat that was her writing.

My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 3.18.26.
Profile Image for Diane Estrella.
344 reviews110 followers
February 2, 2026
Can I give this book six stars??? Pretty please!!!

Amazing from start to finish. The storyline. The main characters. The drama. And most importantly, showcasing the God of the Universe doing what He does best. Saving, Healing, and Redeeming lives!

I love that the copyright page of this book states: "YOU are the reason we do what we do here at Barbour Publishing. We promise that we will always use our God-given talents to produce content with you in mind-- and that we will remain biblically faithful. No matter what."

And yes, this book delivers all that and more. THANK YOU!!!

With books like these, there is always a point about 2/3 of the way through where you think, I can't go on. The suspense, the build up is too real. How much more sadness and drama can the heroine take?? But, of course, we must push through and it was brilliant. I've been there. I know the feeling of bitterness and unforgiveness that can bind a human body and soul to the point of no hope. And then, what God leads us through to find real deliverance and FREEDOM!!! Yes, the freedom and lightness the author spoke of in this book is REAL and available to anyone who cries out to God in their darkest hour... because that's usually what it takes to break our stubborn proud hearts. So yes....

I loved it.

Then after the pain, comes the sweetest most romantic moments. The swoony-ness and completeness both characters are able to embrace while embracing each other. Loved it from start to finish.

End note... the author threw in a few red herrings that left me wondering. I appreciated the twists and turns in the mystery as well.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Profile Image for Lisa M..
1,047 reviews42 followers
January 1, 2026
Who doesn't love a great gothic tale?
Michelle Griep brings another one to the collection with her newest novel The Bird of Bedford Manor. The story starts off with a poacher risking their life to find food in the neighboring manor land...a female poacher that is. Juliet feels she's been left with no choice in her fall from society in order to feed her ailing aunt--the sole family member she has left. So she risks imprisonment and death even to capture a simple bird.

Then one night it all changes.

Henry, Lord of Bedford Manor is desperate to protect his sister from a mysterious stalker. Someone has been on the grounds and he wants to know who.

One night, his groundskeeper catches a poacher...and Juliet and Henry are thrust together. Henry's merciful heart doesn't feel right charging Juliet with the crime--but he thinks he can use her to his benefit. And so he has her agree to help him find the mysterious stalker and he'll take care of her needs--including her aunt.

I liked how the story really explored two things that many Christians deal with--1. hating God for everything that has happened to you and feeling like He's punishing you intentionally, and 2. acting like God by taking on responsibilities that you have actually no control of and aren't yours to begin with.

Both Juliet and Henry have great spiritual growth through the story. And I must say--I figured out the stalker by about halfway in the story. ;)

4 Stars

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this novel. All opinions are 100% my own.
Profile Image for Marguerite Gray.
Author 27 books641 followers
February 3, 2026
History is laced with devastating situations that can turn a stable, flourishing life into one of poverty, illness, and danger. Welcome to Regency England where wealth and honor hang by a thread. How far can one go to make it to the next meal or the next season?

Placed in the same circumstances, I wonder at my own level of cleverness and determination to secure food and comfort for a loved one. At times like these, God shows His power and love. Juliet must use all her strength and intelligence to survive, pushing aside pride and reputation. It’s up to others to accept and interpret her choices.

Enjoy the Regency world where poaching and compromise become a necessity. Bravo, Michelle!
Profile Image for Sydney Schmied .
114 reviews8 followers
February 26, 2026
This was such a unique regency romance! I loved that it was set at a countryside estate and the heroine had a rather unusual “profession.” I loved the strong faith storyline and growth in characters. I did feel like the plot twist ending was not as unique as I hoped for, but it was still a satisfying book!
I do highly recommend any of Michelle Griep’s regency stories! They are well researched, well spoken, and strongly rooted in good storytelling!
I read a copy of this book early on NetGalley.
Profile Image for Jorie.
68 reviews
January 27, 2026
4.5 ⭐️

“She was reborn that day of dust and wind, with tangles in her hair and a hard-cracked soul.”

With an opening line like THAT you *know* it’s going to be good!

“The Bird of Bedford Manor” was such an enjoyable read! Michelle Griep is an extremely talented author who pulls you right in and doesn’t let go until the last page! The pace was good, the character growth was superb, and the world she created was beautiful!

I felt like the mystery was plotted well and played out really well. I honestly didn’t have a good solid suspicion until fairly far into the book. I suspected who it *wasn’t* quite quickly but it honestly kept me guessing on who it actually was! The romance is clean and so sweet. 🥹 It is integral to the storyline, but does not overpower the story and is woven in really well. And the faith aspect was SO good ~ Michelle did such a wonderful job giving her characters “real life” struggles and showing the beauty of the Gospel message and God’s love & the importance of forgiveness. It was very well done.

All in all, this was an exceptional read and I’m so glad I was able to read it! I am quickly becoming a big fan of Michelle Griep’s and can see why so many people love her writing!

If you enjoy Regency time period, with romance, a mystery and a good solid faith aspect then you definitely need to give this a read when it releases on February 1st!

*Thank you to Barbour Books for my ARC copy. All opinions are my own and have not been influenced in any way*
Profile Image for Tammie.
1,622 reviews176 followers
March 25, 2026
3.5 stars

This is the first book I've read by this author and I enjoyed it. I felt like there were probably some things that weren't very historically accurate but overall it was entertaining. I liked both the main female and main male characters. I liked that the main female character was written as an intelligent, resourceful woman, although swallowing her pride and asking for help seems like it would have been the easier route compared to poaching. I enjoyed the way the relationship blossomed between the two characters.

The biggest weakness of the book is that I thought it was pretty obvious, almost from the beginning, who the perpetrator was, and what this person was doing. I didn't feel like this character was written very consistently throughout with the way they went from seemingly calculated and purposeful to crazy by the end. I do feel like the positives outweighed the negatives, so I would probably try another book by this author in the future.

Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book.



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Profile Image for Tabitha Short.
73 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
January 21, 2026
Oh Wow! This story pulled me in and wouldn't let go. I read this in two sittings, (only breaking for work😝)! But this was such a good book!! Everything that Juliet had to go through and then to have to keep herself and her Aunt alive. She is so strong and brave, but it was hard to see her struggle with her bitterness towards her father, but I also get it. I was so happy when she finally let all that go. And then we have Henry and Charity, I love these siblings! And Henry was amazing, but I did want to throttle him a time or two, it is okay to ask for help sometimes. But I loved seeing him and Juliet work together to keep his sister safe!! I had my suspicion of who the tormentor was and ended up being right, I just wasn't fully sure who else was involved, there were several suspicious characters to choose from.
But again, I really, really enjoyed this book!!!

I have loved everything I've read by Michelle Griep and this one did not disappoint!!

Thank you to the Author/Publisher for the advanced copy!
Profile Image for Joan Grejtak.
157 reviews1 follower
January 27, 2026
Very enjoyable read

One of my favorite eras to read. I so enjoyed this authors writing, which has just enough detail. The characters were realistic and well thought out. It was a page turner and fast read for me that kept me very interested. Loved that it was Christian. Good clean read that was christian, but not preachy.
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