Man of Shadow and Mist by Michelle Griep
Series: Of Monsters and Men (Book 1 of 2)
Publisher: Barbour Fiction
Publication Date: June 1, 2023
Review by Mae Clair
A shout-out to Kelly J. Goshorn who’s review of Of Gold and Shadows led me to discover this book.
The time period and setting drew me immediately, but it’s the author’s skill that kept me glued to each page. Not only did she bring the surroundings vividly to life, but her grasp of social etiquette and dialogue for the era made me feel like I was breathing each scene. Her characterizations are exquisite. Both hero and heroine are people a reader can get behind, cheer for when things go right, and ache for when circumstances take upsetting turns.
Rosa Edwards is a fish out of water, a career-minded worker in her father’s library during an era when women are expected to make a good match, marry, and raise a family, content to follow a path predetermined by societal norms.
Sir James Morgan is a baronet from Transylvania, a man with a shadowy lineage who inspires whispers and rumors of vampires the moment he arrives to reclaim his ancestral manor. His mother—a woman shunned and feared by locals—is dying. James has returned with hopes of finding a cure for her, knowing her affliction will one day claim him as well.
In addition to the two main characters, there are plenty of secondary people who move in and out of their orbits, contributing to the obstacles they face. Some grated like nails on a chalkboard, others were a welcome breeze, and one completely surprised me. Bram Stoker even makes several appearances!
The romance between Rosa and James unfurls like a slowly blossoming flower. I loved the pace and how realistically in unfolded. Although there were times I grew frustrated with Rosa’s actions, I understood her motives. I also loved that James held tight to his belief in God despite how others viewed and treated him. His faith is a net that underlies many scenes and chapters, but Rosa is not without her own trust and understanding (as in this exchange with James).
“I see.” Rosa’s face folded. “So Many troubles beset you, my friend, that mine pale in comparison.”
He pushed to his feet, a smirk twitching his lips as he rose. “I suppose standing next to a Job has a way of putting things into perspective, eh?”
Man of Shadow and Mist by Michelle Griep
This is a deliciously immersive novel with strong characters and an edifying message of faith that is woven intricately throughout without being intrusive.
I give Man of Shadow and Mist five wonderful fish!
I purchased the Kindle version of Man of Shadow and Mist.
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