Investigation of a Journalist

Harbored in Crow's Nest #5

by Danielle Grandinetti

A second chance to set the record straight, and rekindle a lost love.

Wisconsin, 1931—Buck Wilson refuses to accept failure as his reward for all he has sacrificed, but he’s kept secrets for too long to be believed. With his freedom on the line, there’s only one person he trusts to mine for the true the woman he left one month before their wedding.

All investigative journalist Caroline Wagoneer wants is to shine a light on the truth wherever darkness threatens to obscure it. Which is the only reason she agrees to help her ex-fiance when he begs for her to go undercover in Crow’s Nest. What she discovers paints Buck in a whole new light.

With lies and rumor hemming them in, Buck and Caroline realize their love may be doomed on the altar of altruism. Unless love can truly conquer all.

Welcome to Crow’s Nest, where danger and romance meet at the water’s edge.

269 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 19, 2024

About the author

Danielle Grandinetti writes both historical romantic suspense and contemporary sweet romance. She is an avid reader and her writing has won the University of Northwestern Distinguished Faith in Writing Award. Originally from the Chicagoland area, she now lives along Lake Michigan’s Wisconsin shoreline with her husband and their two young sons. Find her online at daniellegrandinetti.com.

Reviews

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 6th book in this series. It isn't necessary to read the previous books, but I recommend doing so in order to get all the background information about Buck Wilson's character. I really enjoyed this story! I was so happy it was about Buck, as I wanted him to have his own book. I don't know why, but I really love his character. This is a second chance story with Buck and Caroline being reunited while doing undercover work. Caroline is an investigation journalist, so she gets into some dangerous situations and this current case is no exception. As Buck and Caroline work side by side they reconnect, which was so nice to watch. I loved seeing characters from previous books as well. There is great Christian content throughout the book. It is the perfect blend of danger and romance. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I definitely recommend!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun book.I am recovering from surgery this week, so I needed an easy read that I could pick up and put down as I needed to. This one fit the bill. It was fast paced with likeable characters. I do feel like some things resolved too quickly. I wanted to see more of the struggle, but overall I enjoyed the book. It has a little scripture/ Biblical worldview mixed in and a satisfying ending filled with hope. It is a clean romance, although there is some suspense and a little violence, but I would say this is young adult reader appropriate as well.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Buck Wilson is a disgraced agent of the Treasury Department and Caroline Wagoneer is an investigative journalist. Buck enlists her aid in uncovering the diabolical plot that his Uncle Perry has set in motion against him, causing Buck to lose his reputation and his job, not to mention missing his wedding date with Caroline. He dares to hope that she will be willing to come to Crow’s Nest to expose his uncle and find the others working with him. This story is set in the 1930’s and the setting and time frame make the story work well. The characters are dependent on each other to share information and find clues since there is no such thing as technological advances. With a plan that puts them in danger, Buck and Caroline combine forces to find the truth and clear Buck, even if it means that they die in the process. The pace of the book is moderate, perfect for the detailed story being unraveled for the discerning, follow the clues kind of reader like me. The characters are realistically portrayed and dynamic, with compassion and hurt feelings showing forth along with the desire to forgive, even when forgiveness is not requested yet. This is s a story of persistence and redemption that is a must read for fans of historical romantic suspense. Although this book if the fifth one in the series, it is the first one I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters and the little town, and I had no problem getting immersed in the story. With its combined genres, this book appeals to readers who enjoy historical fiction, romantic fiction and fiction with mystery/suspense. It is a perfect combination of the three and tells a compelling story of good versus evil.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Betty Strohecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense, suspenseful, danger around every corner! Danielle Grandinetti wraps up her Harbored in Crow's Nest series with the truth about Buck Wilson. Shining light on the darkness in Crow's Nest brings new characters to this small Wisconsin town to uncover corruption that puts many at risk. This series ends with a bang, and I didn't want to say goodbye to the people, the town, nor the time period. To me, there was more to be told, but Grandinetti leaves her readers with the promise of another suspenseful series. A compelling read!

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The grotesque Halloween masks decorating the wall seemed to mock him. He’d been wearing a mask for so long, he didn’t know how to take it off.”

Finally! Buck and Caroline’s story is here in book 6 of Harbored in Crows Nest, Investigation of a Journalist. Ever since book one (so yes, it really helps to read these books in order ) Buck has been a stumbling block to the upright citizens of Crows Nest. David Martins, one of the first characters we learn to love, considers Buck a thorn in the flesh at best, an enemy of those who want to make an honest living.

As we finally meet Caroline (Carrie), the Chicago journalist who Buck dropped like a hotcake a month before their wedding, some blanks in Buck’s past begin to be filled in. (There will be some blanks in your understanding, too, if you skip this prologue!) What happened to the wonderful man Carrie thought Buck was, before he broke their engagement and disappeared to Crows Nest?

On procuring info of a counterfeiting ring and being asked for help by Buck himself, Carrie goes undercover in Crows Nest. What she and Buck uncover will either incriminate Buck and send him to prison or prove him innocent and uninvolved with the irregularities occurring in the Conglomerate.

This is a fast-paced, historical romantic suspense-mystery with faith nuggets and wisdom seamlessly woven in. There may be a few swoon-worthy moments as well. “You can count on me to fight for you. Forever.” [ Buck] *Le Sigh*

Will Carrie and Buck glean enough information to prove Buck innocent? Can they do so without sacrificing one or both of their lives? Get your copy of Investigation of a Journalist today!

I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher. I also bought both an ebook and a paperback for the keeper shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“tonight she’d gain entrance into the world that had destroyed her marriage before it had the chance to begin.”

“Fighting for truth, for justice, for good to prevail always has a cost.” Her words were quiet. “How can we expect not to pay a price when we follow a God willing to send His Son to vanquish evil with His life?”

“You must trust me. You must trust that God will protect me. And if He does not, if I do not make it, then He will be there
to catch you.”

“Hope was as fragile as a leaf. One day green and bright, the next it died, fell, and curled to a brittle paper to be crunched under a shoe.”

“Yeah, she had a heart condition, too. Broken, shattered, and still in love with the man who’d devastated it.”

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Investigation of a Journalist is the fifth book in the Harbored in Crow's Nest series. I had not personally read any of the previous books. While there were a few moments where I'd wondered if there was something that was mentioned in a previous book, I do think this read just fine as a standalone as well.

This book drew me in right away with its perfect blending of history, danger and romance. The author did such a great job of bringing readers back in time to 1931, the research that went into bringing the story to life was evident, which is something I always appreciate in a historical read. Both characters were captivating and drew me right into their story, and I found myself rooting for them to get their second chance at a happily every after... second chance romances happen to be one of my favorites, and this one truly was done very well. It kept me intrigued from start to finish and made me curious to know what I had missed in previous books in the series. If you enjoy historical romance, this is one to add to your TBR.

**Book received for consideration. All opinions are my own.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story setting is Wisconsin 1937. It held my attention from the beginning. I have read the previous book in the series, and this one was a good. The main characters, Buck Wilson and Caroline Wagoner, worked together to help investigate crime. Caroline, an investigative journalist, was determined to find out and print the truth.

There are unexpected situations, going undercover, and a second chance at romance. Everything that makes for a page-turned story. There are lots of twists, mystery, and intrigue. I simply couldn't put it down and finished it in one sitting. The ending wrapped everything up nicely. Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 5 out of 5]

The things I could say if I were to write a spoiler written review… But that’s not me. All I can say is whoooooeee, hold onto your hats. Put aside what you thought you had learned over this entire series and be ready for your world to be shaken up like a snow globe and turned upside down.

This Christian Historical Romantic Suspense is the conclusion to a series of interconnected stand-alones with mystery throughout them all. Things have built upon each other throughout the series and it lands us here at the culmination of the crime and suspense. Wisconsin, in the 1930s, we find a female investigative journalist getting a second chance with her ex-fiancé. Our hero has been both a villain and a help throughout this series and boy did I not see some things coming.

This was a thrilling ride - I highly recommend you read the entire series prior to this book - you won’t regret it. This sweet romance takes place in the fall and has many mentions of Halloween.

I’m excited to see what adventure Grandinetti takes us through next.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you have read the other books about Crow’s Nest, Wisconsin, you know that it is a small town but not without its problems such as corruption and people in power not trusting each other. Not many trust Buck Wilson, head of The Conglomerate. Now we get his story and why the Treasury Department is interested in this tiny hamlet in the North Woods.
The author has woven the history of the Secret Service, Al Capone, counterfeiting and innovative journalism with a story of second chance romance. Carrie Wagoneer is an investigarive reporter who was days away from marrying Buck in Chicago. She was bereft when he left but life goes on. Then surprise, he needs her expertise.
This complex story has danger and cunning criminals but also upright citizens who help uncover the evil minded person behind the shady deeds of the powerful. With a solid faith thread and realistic characters, this story resonated with me because I used to live in a small town in Wisconsin that was close to the supposed hideout of Al Capone.
This was a satisfying conclusion to the series and a great story about Wisconsin.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Connie Hill]

Investigation of a Journalist is book 6 in the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series that is written by Danielle Grandinetti. While they can all be read as stand alone the series has been pretty amazing. I’ve been on the ride since book one, and I’m sad to see the series end. However I’m super excited to see what comes from the author next.

Caroline Waggoner is an investigative journalist in Chicago. I love that she works for a female firm. The book is set in 1931 so it was fun to see a strong female profession. She had her heart broken a month before her wedding. So when her ex fiance, Buck Wilson shows up at her job she’s intrigued.

Buck has not made the most wise decisions. He trusts that Caroline will help cover the truth. He wants to uncover a plot that someone close to him has set in motion to see his demise.

Caroline agrees to go undercover in Crow’s Nest. It forces her to put her broken heart aside and see what she is able to uncover. Buck’s freedom depends on it.

This was my favorite book in the series. The author transports readers back in time. She’s paid attention to detail. I’m going to miss Crow’s nest.

Thank you to the author, publisher and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

[Tracy Fritts · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the final book in the Harbored in the Crow's Nest. I truly enjoyed this historical, second chance, clean and inspirational story.
I enjoyed the Buck and Caroline story. It's a romantic suspense between these to character. I enjoyed trying to figure out the mystery of this story.
It is a wonderful well written. It has a good storyline. It will leave you feeling like your in the book watching everything unfold. It's a page turner. Will keep your interest throughout the story. I think as you read this story you can relate to the characters.
You will be in the edge of your seat reading this book. I look forward to more stories from this author

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have thoroughly enjoyed each and every volume of Danielle Grandinetti’s Harbored in Crow’s Nest series. While the books can easily stand alone, when read in the proper order building blocks are put into place that lead up to the exciting and satisfying conclusion found in Investigation of a Journalist.

Buck Wilson holds the hero spot in this book. He is a fairly new resident of Crow’s Net who has taken over a local organization. Although he has helped residents on more than one occasion, many of the townspeople do not trust him and consider him secretive and suspicious. Readers will get to know the true Buck as the final story plays out in this thrilling novel. Desperate to get his life back, the undercover agent seeks help from Caroline Wagoneer, the woman he practically left standing at the alter. Together, Buck and Caroline continue a charade as they attempt to capture the dangerous criminals Buck must find in order to redeem his reputation.

The suspense filled plot moves along at a steady pace with danger at every turn. The question is, “Will Buck and Caroline reconcile and live happily ever after or will they go their own ways once the case is solved?” I’ll never tell. You need to read it for yourself. Better still get your hands on the entire series. I don’t think you will regret it.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

[Miss Pippi the Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome back to Crow’s Nest, where danger and romance meet at the water’s edge! I read book one, which I very much enjoyed and now I jumped to book five! It's quite a jump, but I enjoyed reading this as a standalone. Characters from previous books do appear, but you're understanding the story (or should I say journey) a the same time as character Caroline Wagoneer does her investigation.

Yes, this is a romance, but it's more of a historical fiction suspence story. I love that it takes place in Wisconsin and it's set in the early 1930's. I don't read many books set in Wisconsin or set in the early 1900's. It was refreshing and interesting.

Thanks for the book gift, Danielle and JustReadTours!
All opinions are my own.

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

“ Investigation of a Journalist” is the sixth book in the Harbored in Crows Nest series. I have read the fifth and sixth book, but not the others. This book could be read as a stand alone but probably would be better if read in order. I liked seeing the previous characters involved in this story and how their friendships impacted Buck and Caroline’s story. Buck and Caroline were so sweet by looking out for each other constantly. I love to see a second chance romance, and characters that are in love and trying to give their all so they can be back with another. I appreciate the author always keeping the books clean and emphasizing the importance of faith and God. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes sweet clean romance with mystery/suspense.

I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to write a review.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Investigation of a Journalist is the second book I have read written by Danielle Grandinetti.
After starting the book, I realized that this is not the first book in the series. After reading a review I decided I would be fine reading this as a stand-alone. Though I agree with the review that you could read it as a stand-alone, I felt like I was missing a piece. I have decided to go back and read through the series when I can find some time.

The character development was good. I enjoyed getting to know Caroline (Carrie) and Buck. Learning about their past and the full truth behind it all was fun. With lots of fun supporting characters.

The storyline and setting were good. I loved getting into the aspects of a journalist and going undercover. The small town of Crow’s Nest was a fun location for this story. It was the perfect suspense/mystery.

The rekindled romance between Buck and Carrie was great. Nothing too over the top, just the right amount to keep it sweet.

Danielle Grandinetti did a great job intertwining faith throughout the whole book. I really appreciate a good faith filled book.

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

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a sweet story, and I was so happy to be back in the Crows Nest for Bucks story. When I first met Buck in Sheltered by the Doctor, I wasn't sure how to feel about him. But by the end of the story, you realized there was more depth to his character, and I was more than ready to learn more about "the one that got away." Caroline and Buck have history, when they were so close to getting married, Buck left town and ended their relationship. Him leaving not only hurt her, but him... so when they both get a chance to help Buck clear his name, they work together. It's hard working together with the background and feelings they have, but it's the only way to even "try" for a second chance at love. Can Buck clear his name? Will Caroline ever forgive him? Who is behind all of this?!

This is the third book I read by Danielle, and they never disappoint. I loved both main characters in this story. Caroline for working past her hurt feelings to step up and be there for Buck. And Buck for being the great person he was, even when everyone was believing the worst of him. He also was always so deeply in love with Caroline, I liked seeing his emotions show through... which can be rare with men sometimes.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Investigation of a Journalist is a wonderful continuation of a historical fiction series that you are not going to want to miss! I’ve been loving this series and am so glad to have been able to read them!

Do you need to read all of the books in order before reading this sixth book in the series? No, you don’t. Should you? Yes! Because then you’ll get all of the backstory about one of our main characters. Buck. Buck has been working hard towards a goal and when it looks like he’s going to lose it all he reaches out to his ex-fiance. Yeah. That might not have been his smartest move. The failed engagement or reaching out to her, but she’s the only one he can think of who can help.

Caroline lives a dangerous life as an undercover investigative reporter. She’s often in danger so going undercover with Buck isn’t that big of a deal.

Except it is, because he is her ex-fiance.
As they work together they grow closer again and learn the whys and hows of their failed engagement. I loved seeing them both grow and learn and then come together as bigger and better people. Buck’s Uncle is powerful and pulls a lot of strings behind the scenes. Maybe he was even responsible for Buck not getting married?

This is a wonderful blend of romance and danger. I enjoyed reading it just as I’ve enjoyed reading all of the other books in this series. I truly hope you get the chance to read them all. Maybe there will even be a few more in the series. I love this author so I definitely would not turn down more of her books. This series is set in the 1930s and I’m beginning to really love that pre-war time frame.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical Romance with Suspense is a great genre to read. Investigation of a Journalist by Danielle Grandinetti is one that I recently had the honor to read. It is Book 6 in the Harbored in Crows Nest series. I have read a couple books in this series and have been anxiously awaiting the release of this book.

I was soo invested in the storyline from the first chapter. This is Buck and Caroline's story and takes place in 1931 in Crow's Nest, WI. I really LOVE that Caroline is an Investigative Journalist from Chicago. I am a Chicago girl myself! Buck has been in many of the previous books and he is definitely one of my favorite characters. He has lived a life of lies and now he needs the truth to be told. Caroline agreeing to help him with her investigative skills and journalism, is a miracle. Many years ago, Buck left Caroline one month before they were to marry, I was in awe of how Caroline was able to uncover the truth and help Buck. Buck and Caroline realizing that they still have a LOVE for another is amazing and beautiful! I am sad that this is the 6th and Final book in this series! I only had the opportunity to read the last 3 books in this series, but I do plan on going back and reading the entire series from beginning to end! The book is and definite Page Turner and filled with Twists and Turns. It is one of Second Chance Romance, Faith, History and more. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Romance with Suspense. AMAZING BOOK!

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a satisfying ending to one of my all-time favorite series! I have been eagerly anticipating the truth behind Buck Wilson, and it was worth the wait. So many lingering questions I’ve had throughout the series were finally answered, and my preconceived notions proved true in almost all of them.

Though each novel can be read as a standalone, I feel like reading the series as a whole enriches the experience. Investigation of a Journalist is a second-chance romance, and this is one of those stories that you can’t help but root for love. Caroline is Buck’s match in every sense of the word, and it was wonderful to see the entire series come full circle through their eyes.

As with the rest of the series, there is quite a bit of suspense and even more heart and spirit. Honestly, I am sad that this series is ending and can only hope to see Crow’s Nest and its inhabitants pop in from time to time in other Danielle Grandinetti books. Can you tell it’s hard for me to let go? I’ve bonded so much with this community and its inhabitants, and it truly is hard to say goodbye, but I eagerly anticipate more amazing work from this author and cannot recommend this novel and series enough.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Investigation of a Journalist
Harbored in Crow's Nest #6
By Danielle Grandinetti

This is the sixth book in the Harbored In Crow's Nest series, set in 1931 Wisconsin. I love the historical aspect of this series and the suspense thread running throughout it. This time, we finally get Buck Wilson's story.

Buck Wilson has been an intriguing person to get to know. In Crow's Nest, he is a bit of an enigma, hated or disliked by most. Yet he has moments where he comes across as a caring, good person. But his associations paint him in a different light. But the time has come for Buck to reveal the truth; to do so, he must reach out to the one person he never wanted to bring into this life.

Caroline Wagoneer last saw Buck over two years ago. He left one month before they were to be married, so when he shows up asking for her help, she is faced with a choice. Does she help him stop a dangerous foe? Or does she turn her back on his plea? But his plea touches her heart.

I enjoyed this book and feel this series is best read in order. Although this book can be read as a standalone title, you would be missing background information from the previous books. I love that Buck gets a second chance at the life he has had to leave behind. But a chance isn't a promise of tomorrow, and the people Buck is trying to stop won't go down quietly.

I really enjoy this kind of book and am willing to forego sleep for it. If you enjoy historical fiction, I highly recommend it. Danielle Grandinetti has a way of making history come alive with her gift of wordsmithing, and she is on my must-read list of authors.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord, help me shed Your light in these dark places.

Buck is tired of all the secrets. It is time to show the wonderful people of Crow’s Nest who he really is. But will they believe him? Caroline Wagoneer, also known as C.C. Wagner is his former fiancé - the one he left just one month before their wedding. She is an investigative journalist - perhaps she can get to the bottom of this mystery, if she is willing….

A story of second chances, this last book in the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series wraps up all those questions you have had regarding Buck and if he is or is not the person the local reporter is making him out to be. This is a wonderful series, one you really do not want to miss. Received through Hearth Spot Press, BookFunnel and JustRead Publicity Tours, these are my thoughts which were in no way solicited.

[Bonnie Fakhri · Rating 5 out of 5]

A satisfying series ending

I have enjoyed getting to know the residents of Crow's Nest, a charming town on the shores of Lake Michigan during the prohibition era years. This book tells the back story of Buck and ties up loose strings to bring the series to a satisfying end. I do think it needs to be read in the order written and doesn't function well as a stand-alone novel because of the interrelated characters and plots from the previous novels in the series. Christian themes of forgiveness, justice, and truth are woven throughout the novel.

[Chosengirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the last book of the Harbored in Crows Series and and we finally get Bucks story. This book Is so good. We get to meet newspaper writer Caroline who has come to find out where Buck has been. I love this town and all the people who live there. Danielle Grandinetti has a way of drawing you in from the 1st page to the last and puts in so much excitement and intrigue. This book was given to me by the author. I was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.

[Mary Mccauley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great conclusion

I am a Wisconsin girl so have especially enjoyed these stories. The characters are ones you can relate to. The setting is one you can imagine. Indeed there were some difficult times.
This story captures all of that history with love and faith. Hope lives in the pages of each book.
I highly recommend all of this series.

[Vicki Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Last Book in this Series

Again, Danielle Grandinetti wrote a great book! It is clean and inspirational and, like the other 5 books in this series, very uh add to out down! The only negative thing...is that this book ends this series! I really enjoy this author's books! I want read all of her books! So I have purchased another of her series! I'm off to start reading it!

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved this series and this finale was absolutely perfect! I don’t want to say too mych because the whole series builds to this, but I can’t recommend this series enough! A fantastic set of characters, an era you don’t see in a ton of stories(1930s!) and a mystery thread that was so incredibly intriguing. Don’t miss this series!

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great ending!!