Book Review: 12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep

12 Days at Bleakly Manor. Michelle Griep. Oasis Audio (2017). Genre: Historical Fiction, Christmas, Mystery.

Summary:  Nine months ago, Clara Chapman lost everything.  She was left standing at the altar by the man she loved.  He also stole her family's fortune.  As Christmas is approaching, Clara receives an invitation to spend the holiday at an English Manor.  She does not know who sent the letter, but it promises that if she stays for the twelve-day celebration she will receive 500 pounds.  She is hesitant as it is all so mysterious, but 500 pounds would go a long way toward helping her get back on her feet.

Benjamin Lane has been in prison for nine months.  On the way to his wedding, he was arrested for stealing the Chapman fortune and has been in prison since.  He didn't steal the fortune and doesn't understand why Clara hasn't been to see him or try to get him out of prison.  When he receives an invitation to spend the Christmas holiday at an English Manor he can't refuse.  The invitation promises that if he remains for the twelve-day celebration he will receive his freedom.  If he tries to leave the property he will be shot.

An invitation was sent to several other people as well.  Each promised something in return if they stay for the twelve-day celebration.  As they arrive at the manor, each thinks the other might be the host. Once they have all arrived, they discover that their host is not among them.  Clara and Ben are surprised to see one another and each is angry at the other.  Will they be able to reconcile?  Strange things begin happening at the manor that cause everyone to be on edge. Will they be able to discover who the host is and why he invited them?  

My thoughts: This was quite an intriguing story.  I listened to the audio book version and I found myself inventing more chores so that I could keep listening.

Clara was told that Ben stole her family's fortune.  It was hard for her to believe at first, but since she hadn't heard from him she was forced to believe it was true.  She has spent the time since losing her family's home living with and caring for her aunt.  She has been quite unhappy, but trying to go on the best that she can.  Ben is angry that Clara didn't believe in him and thought the worst.  It takes a day or two for them to warm up to one another after arriving at the manor.

The other guests that have been invited add interest to the story.  Each one is eccentric and had me laughing out loud at times.  

It is the mystery of who owns the manor, along with the mysterious occurrences that bring Ben and Clara together.  In the end, the reader learns the answer, but not all the characters do. 

This was an enjoyable Christmas read full of mystery and romance.