A Tale of Two Hearts (Once Upon A Dickens Christmas #2) by Michelle Griep | Christmas Book Review

A Tale of Two Hearts

Once Upon A Dickens Christmas #2

Michelle Griep

Historical Romance

London, 1853: Innkeeper’s daughter Mina Scott will do anything to escape the drudgery of her life, for there’s nothing more mundane than serving customers day after day. Every minute she can, she reads and dreams of someday becoming a real lady—and catch the eye of William Barlow, a frequent guest at the inn.

William is a gentleman’s son, a charming but penniless rogue. However, his bachelor uncle will soon name an heir—either him or his scheming cousin. In an effort to secure the inheritance, William gives his uncle the impression he’s married, which works until he’s invited to bring his wife for a visit.

William asks Mina to be his pretend bride, only until his uncle names an heir on Christmas Day. Mina is flattered and frustrated by the offer, for she wants a true relationship with William. Yet, she agrees. . .then wishes she hadn’t. So does William. Deceiving the old man breaks both their hearts. When the truth is finally discovered, more than just money is lost.

Can two hearts survive such deception?

My Thoughts

I have been looking forward to reading this book for a year now. It was worth the wait! Last year I read the first book in the series and knew that if it was any indication of what was to come I wouldn't be disappointed. I wasn't. This book shifts the story to an unlikely couple. William Barlow seems to be the perpetual bachelor and Mina Scott is a server at her father's tavern. Mina has had a crush on William since she first set eyes on William but he's not really paid that much attention. But when a family situation arrises Mina becomes the perfect person to help William.

This charming story takes a few twists and turns but on the whole stays pretty much as you would expect. It really is the perfect read for a cozy night in front of the fire. The characters are lively (just wait until you meet Uncle Barlow) and the romance is warm and fuzzy. If you've been binge watching Christmas movies then this will be a nice change of pace. The little shout outs to the wonderful works of Dickens are the perfect accompaniment to this delightful story.

I am eagerly anticipating the third book in this series which is slated to come out next year. I hope that this will become a nice little Christmas tradition from Michelle Griep for years to come.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.