The Recluse's Vindication: Rumors, Monsters, and Second Chances at Our House on Heather Wynd

by Danielle Grandinetti

The Loch Ness Monster isn't the only recluse seeking a Scottish haven.

If you love pre-WWII historical romantic suspense, you'll be sure to enjoy The Recluse's Vindication.Bieldfell. Scotland, 1933—Falsely accused of murder sixteen years ago, American cowboy Benjamin Ford has chosen to hide out in the Scottish Highlands. Reclusive and not afraid to die, he rescues children out of an increasingly dangerous Germany. When his childhood best friend appears at his door, he's not the boy she remembers.

Eleanor Finch's life ended sixteen years ago. In one horrible day, she lost her dreams, her reputation, and her heart. However, she never gives up the hope of finding her friend, so when she learns of Ben's whereabouts, she leaves all that is familiar to convince him to return home.

But Eleanor isn't the only person searching for Ben. Hunters follow her trail. The thin veil of gossip and rumor may be their only chance of a future ... unless the Loch Ness Monster is real after all.


Fans of Danielle Grandinetti’s 1930s historical romances will recognize the hero’s grandparents from Heart of Beauty, spot familiar faces from the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series, and follow the continuing Resistance story from The Italian Musician’s Sanctuary.


Our House on Heather Wynd
Our House on Heather Wynd is the second series in the multi-author, multi-genre Our House collection. Set along the shore of Loch Ness in the rugged Highlands of Scotland, the village of Bieldfell welcomes all. With stories of redemption and salvation behind every door, you’re sure to find a new tale of romance, intrigue, humour or heart. All you have to do is knock!

Other books can be read in any
The Lady’s Companion by Anna Jensen
The Constant Pray-er by Caryl McAdoo
The Highlander's Secret by Rena Groot Oord
The Lover's Bridge by Lynn Dean
The Nessie Hunter's Diaries by Lori Soard
The Freelancers's Hope by Claire Lagerwall
The Recluse's Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti
The Nanny's Lost Legend by Patti Wolf
The Widow's Choice by Francine Beaton
The Sister's Tour by Amy Walsh
The Carer's Conundrum by Anna Jensen
The Baker's Pickle by Vida Li Sik
The Tea Maker's Blend by Caroline Johnston
The Executive's Dilemma by Allyson Koekhoven

Genres: Romance, Historical, Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction

266 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 12, 2025

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

[theliterateleprechaun]

I enjoyed the journey to vindication for this reluctant hero. His champion, Eleanor, was determined to get Ben to step out from the shadows and claim the life he was meant to live. It was good to be reminded that there are emotional consequences of running away from our problems. We think we’ve fooled ourselves and those around us, but it only brings temporary relief. We’ve all wanted to escape our challenges at times, and Grandinetti explores whether the lure of escape ever outweighs the weight of our problems.

If you enjoy second-chance romance, wartime fiction, a Scottish brogue, a focus on forgiveness, and a light faith thread, this is worth considering.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoy second chance romance, friends to lovers, suspense, and lots of pining, this book is for you!

Ben and Eleanor grew up together, always close and maybe even more, but everything changes when Eleanor is attacked one day. Ben rushes in to protect her, ends up killing a man, and has to go on the run. Feeling guilty and thinking Eleanor would be better off without him, he leaves. He starts a new life fighting for the innocent, far from her.

Sixteen years later, Eleanor finds him, determined to bring him back. But is Ben still the man she remembers? Can she convince him to come home, or has too much changed? Their reunion puts everyone in danger, and they may have to separate again to stay safe.

This was a quick and emotional read. I loved how Eleanor never gave up on Ben and was determined to show him that he didn’t murder, even though he killed, and there was a difference. He was a hero, even if he struggled to accept it.Watching them rebuild their future together was probably my favorite part.

I received a complimentary copy, and this is my honest review.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It’s been sixteen years, Eleanor. Are you ready for who we'll find?”- Hiram

First of all, let me say The Recluse’s Vindication has joined my short list of books I definitely plan to reread! I thought Danielle Grandinetti couldn’t come up with a hero I would like more than Gio from another of her books, but Benjamin Ford certainly gives Gio competition! Le Sigh!

I was thrilled to open the book to find a readable on kindle! color map at the front. Very often, when ARC copies are in ebook form, maps are unreadable, and that’s just that.

I loved the tie-ins of this novella with two others of Grandinetti’s, Heart of Beauty and The Italian Musician’s Sanctuary. However, it’s not necessary to have read these books or even others in this series to enjoy this one.

As Eleanor travels from Montana to Scotland in 1933 to find a man who had once been her closest friend and bring him home, she is unprepared for who and what she discovers. What will she do with her new knowledge? Will she fight for the friendship, get involved in something that requires her facing yet another monster, or will she go home to live in fear and loneliness?

A beautiful story of learning to forgive oneself. Of wrestling with the hard questions. When does doing the wrong thing become right? Is a person obligated to help others at risk of their own life? What promises are so important that, no matter what, one refuses to break them? Does heredity determine character? “The grandson of a beast, the son of a monster, a man who had already killed with his bare hands. He would accept the mantle God laid on him and trade his soul so the innocent could live.”

Amelie totally stole my heart, just as she did Ben’s and Eleanor’s. And baby Max? The children part of the book nearly broke my heart. But I questioned myself- like Eleanor did herself- was her heart ( or is mine) broken enough to take action?

I enjoyed the inclusion of the legend of Nessie, including the real person who was rumored to have seen the Loch Ness Monster.

I received a copy of the book from the author and JustRead Tours. I also bought my own copy.

Notable Quotables:

“I think people vilify what they don’t understand. What they think is different, alien. Outside of what they consider normal.”- Ben

“There was no limit to what else he’d give up for them, including his heart, his soul, and even his life.”- Ben

“He knew clouds could not hide him from God or hide God from him, but at the moment, they felt like an iron shield. Or perhaps that was merely his conscience. Yet God felt as far away as home.” - Ben

”As soon as she asked the question, she wished to take it back. It bled with all the hope she’d packed into her luggage for the trip to Scotland.” - Eleanor

“We all must make sacrifices, or cruelty wins.”-Heda

It wasn’t just reasonable, it was heroic. You’re a hero. You’re my hero.”

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben is carrying around a lot of guilt. He has had to kill men defensively, militarily and in protecting others. But he thinks he is a bad man for this. He fled from his town and girl, Eleanor after he protected her in an attack. 16 years later they meet again. I felt so bad for Ben and the guilt he carried. Eleanor has a sad story too but I’m glad they get a happy ending together. I really liked this characters. I thought it was cool to have the Loch Ness Monster in the story as well. Good Christian Content. “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Overall, a good story and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars.

The Recluse’s Vindication is a short novella written by Danielle Grandinetti, part of a multi-author series: Our House on Heather Wynd. It can be read as a standalone, but it does have crossover characters from some of Danielle Grandinetti’s other books. This pre-World War II novella explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, rumors, myths, and second chances.

The character development was good. Ben is struggling to overcome the guilt of killing people to save others. Struggling with this and the burden he feels God has placed on him, Ben has become a recluse to try to hide from his past and help those in need, as hatred for the Jews and the disabled grows. Eleanor has also become an outcast since Ben left their town 16 years ago. However, Eleanor is struggling with other issues. Watching them lean into each other and heal and open their hearts to one another was touching.

The setting was perfect. I loved the little Scottish town, thick with myths and rumors. During a time in history when countries were in great turmoil, on the verge of war. The storyline was great. With mystery and myths of the Loch Ness Monster, rescuing children from Germany, second-chance romance, and forgiveness, this story will pull at your heart.

This second-chance romance was sweet with kisses only.

Danielle Grandinetti did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the book.

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

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This soon to be released novella is a quick read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction! It takes place in the 1930's in Scotland and there is a a lot of civil unrest what with the beginning of the Nazi takeover in Germany. The plot is very wonderful and the characters are very likeable.

One character of interest is a young American man named Benjamin. He came to Scotland years ago to hide out after being accused of a crime he didn't commit. He mostly keeps to himself and helps children who are in dangerous situations. However, things in his life are thrown into a whirlwind when someone from his past who has good intentions shows up on his doorstep. Will he be able to reconnect with his friend Eleanor and create a fresh start or will the past continue to wreck him?

I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions are of my own.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

In The Recluse’s Vindication, Ben and Eleanor must work through past mistakes and misunderstandings to rekindle their love and survive the revenge of a madman. I really enjoyed this historical, second chance romance. I loved the setting of the Scottish highlands and the incorporation of the Loch Ness legend. I felt the conflicts were realistic, and I rejoiced when Ben and Eleanor bridged the gap between them and reconciled. I also enjoyed the side characters; I appreciated the wisdom of Hiram and Agnes, and Amelie was adorable. The message that real love is doing the hard thing and putting others first was done well. The second chance romance, which is my favorite type, was well done, and I was thrilled for Ben and Eleanor to rekindle their love. This is a good book for anyone who loves historical romance full of second chances. Thank you to the, publisher for my review copy; I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts above are my own.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Recluse’s Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti is a heart-stirring novella that beautifully blends historical romance, suspense, and faith.

From the very first page, I was swept into Ben and Eleanor’s world. Childhood sweethearts torn apart by tragedy, they’re reunited sixteen years later on the misty shores of Loch Ness. Ben carries the crushing guilt of a man who has taken lives—always in defense of others, yet unable to see himself as anything but broken. Eleanor, on the other hand, refuses to give up on him. Her determination to find him and remind him of who he really is—her friend, her protector, and her love—was one of my favorite parts of the story.

The setting adds so much atmosphere. Pre-WWII Scotland, complete with whispers of the Loch Ness Monster, creates a moody and mysterious backdrop. And while myths swirl around the loch, real danger lurks in the growing shadow of Nazi Germany. Ben’s work rescuing endangered children from across the border added both urgency and depth to the story.

This novella may be short, but it is full of heart. Themes of forgiveness, second chances, and unconditional love are threaded throughout, leaving me both encouraged and deeply moved. Watching Ben and Eleanor confront the past, embrace the present, and lean into hope for the future was so satisfying.

If you love romance with substance—stories where faith is quietly but powerfully woven in—this is one to pick up. It’s a reminder that guilt doesn’t have to define us, and that sometimes love really can carry us home.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ben unintentionally killed a man sixteen years ago to protect Eleanor - then fled to save them both. Unfortunately, little though he knew it, it didn't save her at all, but only stole her sole support. Since then, he's killed many more, and though only in war or to protect others, he considers himself unfit for marriage - not to mention the old murder charge still hanging over his head. So when Eleanor turns up on his doorstep, he all but turns her away. But it soon becomes clear that she was followed and his hiding place is no longer safe. Can they keep him safe or will he have to run again? And can Eleanor convince him of the possibility of second chances?

An enjoyable and inspiring read that kept me guessing. I loved having the kids involved - it really added to the story. And the element of danger added to the interest - though I'd have to say that it didn't really feel like he was ever truly vindicated, which was disappointing. I did appreciate the response of the hunter to hearing the truth - not blind acceptance, but willingness to hear and weigh the truth, and then go from there. I enjoyed getting to know both Ben and Eleanor and was glad to see them get a long-awaited happy ending, after so many unpleasant years - hoping to see them in future books somewhere, because their new life sounds like it has the potential to be very interesting. 4.5 stars.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Recluse’s Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti is a wonderful novella set during one of my favorite time periods and in a place I would love to visit! The author writes novels set during the 1930s, and this one takes place in 1933 when Hitler ruled the Nazi party and was chancellor of Germany. The Jews, as well as others the Nazis deemed imperfect for their new world order, were beginning to be persecuted.

Ben Ford left America 16 years ago when he was accused of murdering a prominent man’s son. He settled in the Scottish Highlands and became a reclusive shepherd. However, he didn’t leave his heroic side behind. Now he is helping to smuggle children from Nazi Germany. Of course, no one from his home has known what’s become of him until someone finds information on where he is. When Eleanor Finch hears this news she heads to Scotland to find him.

I adored this love story. I easily read it in one sitting since I was anxious to see how Ben and Eleanor would overcome their broken past.

Ben’s bravery was so admirable. I wish I knew that I would have been brave enough to help the Jews escape Nazi occupied territories. You read so many stories about these heroes, yet each one is unique. This one certainly wasn’t like any I’ve read since it happened before the war. Amelie, the little girl that Ben rescued, was such a delight! I loved how she bonded with everyone and how concerned she was about others. The characters in this book were very well-written, and I cared about what happened in their lives.

The inclusion of the Loch Ness monster was an added bonus. I’ve watched so many documentaries about Loch Ness and Nessie. It’s definitely a legend that is fun to think about, and I’d love to visit the loch and try to spot her!

I highly recommend The Recluse’s Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti! This second chance historical romance has a mix of unique characters, a picturesque setting, an enthralling plot, and a beautiful message of bravery, faith, and forgiveness. 5 stars!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eleanor Finch has had a difficult life, and the only bright spot in it was her best friend Ben Ford, the man who defended her and then disappeared from her life. When the story begins, Eleanor is on a quest to find Ben and to have a chance to reestablish their friendship. Traveling with an elderly man named Hiram who had also known Ben, Eleanor is surprised by what she finds when she gets to Scotland. This book if historical fiction combined with romantic suspense and all woven together seamlessly into the tapestry of an engaging and compelling story. With a theme of sacrifice and forgiveness, this story is one that held me enthralled with the past insults suffered by Eleanor and the way that Ben has created a new life for himself, rescuing others. The characters are relatable and realistic and the plot rolls along at a fast pace. I enjoyed the entire story, especially the surprise at the end.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Recluse's Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti is the seventh book in the Our House On Heather Wynd. This is a series of book written by different authors This is a pre-WWII story that takes place along the shore of Loch Ness in the rugged Highlands of Scotland, the village of Bieldfell. Ben was falsely accused of murder in Montana 16 years earlier and fled to Scotland. Now Eleanor is in Scotland looking for Ben. Her life also changed drastically following the terrible event 16 years earlier.

This is a good pre-WWII story that gives a look into the dangers that were happening in Europe during that time. It shows the secrecy the people had to hold tight when they stepped out to help those in danger. I enjoyed the characters in this story. I enjoyed how caring they are and how helpful to each other. I especially enjoyed how quickly the orphaned girl and Eleanor became connected to each other. I enjoyed how Ben and Eleanor feel for each other even after so many years and how they are able to talk to each other about what happened. This is an enjoyable story that has bits of suspense and romance.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this story, this is my honest review.

[Lee Anne Womack · Rating 4 out of 5]

Keeps me reading to the very last word

I loved the history packed into this story and the twist of adding the Loch Ness Monster. It’s definitely worth the read.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful pre-WWII novella. The Recluse's Vindication is set on the shores of Loch Ness, in the fictional neighborhood of Heather Wynd. Ms. Grandinetti's story in this series is a second chance at romance story in the early 1930's.

The author allows the backstory of Ben and Eleanor's friendship and separation from 16 years prior due to a tragedy to slowly weave through the 1933 story. Eleanor unexpectedly arrives on Ben's doorstep after years of separation, but the consequences of a tragic event still haunt them. With misunderstandings surrounding the hazy details of an event long ago, they must put aside past hurt in order to face an enemy together.

This is a marvelous story of the growing unrest in Germany and the beginnings of resistance against a dictator. I love the hero, A Montana mountain man, hiding in the wilds of Scotland, fighting the monsters that prey on the innocent.

Ben has a lot of guilt on his plate, as he views himself as a monster of sorts, instead of as the hero. One who kills to save others, not for the sake of murder, but as the only alternative to halt the death of the innocent.

I found this to be a quick read as I eagerly turned the pages to read Ben and Eleanor's HEA. . A wonderful blend of historical detail, excellent plot pacing and heartwarming characters.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Danielle has quickly become one of my must read authors over the last couple of years. I loved how she blends romance, mystery and fabulous characters to become stories I love. I have been waiting for Ben to get his story since reading “Heart of Beauty” earlier this year. I even messaged Danielle after finishing Beauty to ask if Ben was going to get a story of his own, that’s how much I was looking forward to this book! I’m happy to say it was well worth the wait. I really enjoyed how Danielle involved Ben in the fight against Germany and Hitler in the years before WW2 started. I also loved Agnes and the other characters we meet in Bieldfell. The redemption thread for both Ben and Eleanor was another favorite element for me. Basically I am a fan of anything Danielle writes and as someone who reads a LOT and loves a lot of different authors, she is one of my absolute favorites!

I received a copy of this book from JustRead and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was engaged in the story from the beginning. The setting in Scotland and the discussion of the Loch Ness Monster were a nice addition as a backdrop. The story takes place as the Nazi's in Germany make it difficult for certain classes to leave. Ben, being a recluse in Scotland, because of his past, decides to work to free the children in Germany.

Parts of the story are heartbreaking. The complicated relationship between Ben and Eleanor creates a lot of tension but produces an inspirational, faith-based romantic outcome that weaves another unexpected situation. There were some twists I didn't see coming. I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. The characters were interesting with many layers.

I loved the ending, which had some surprises and was not what I expected, but wrapped up everything nicely—a great story and one I highly recommend.

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

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben left home 16 years ago because he was accused of murder. All he was doing was defending his friend, Eleanor. But ever since, he has been working with government intelligence in Europe. This story is based in the 30s which is a new era genre for me but I loved it.


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

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I inhaled this novel so fast that I felt like it was over before it began. The heart of this story is evident, and I felt all the feels with this second-chance romance. Instantly absorbed, I was quickly thrust into the narrative and drank in each scene with fervor. The time period in which this story is set is such a time of unease that was felt by the world, and this same unease is transferred into this story.

Seeing familiar names at the beginning of the story got me excited about the mysterious story that unfolds as a family who has been looking for a long-lost relative has found him after years of searching and wondering. The banter between Hiram and Agnes was so stinkin’ cute!! The cantankerous Hiram has nothing on Agnes, and I enjoyed their back-and-forth so much! It reminded me so much of how my grandparents used to interact, and it continuously brought a smile to my face with every scene they were in together. Sweet, young Amalie was another bright spot in this story. She was a ray of sunshine and exuded hope in what seems to be a hopeless situation. No matter who she’s around, she seems to be a source of comfort and support despite her young age.

The ending was pretty intense, and I loved that there was a guest appearance from Nessi! This novel is perfection as it ties in characters from other stories, interweaving a beautiful tapestry of love, forgiveness, and second chances. It doesn’t get much better than this!

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

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Part of the Our House on Heather Wynd series, The Recluse’s Vindication by Gabrielle Grandietti is a quick, sweet read that is a stand-alone novel. Set in pre-WWII Scotland, the book primarily follows Benjamin Ford and Eleanor Finch, childhood sweethearts who are reunited on the shores of Loch Ness sixteen years after Ben fled home.

Major themes in The Recluse’s Vindication include forgiveness (Does God’s forgiveness really cover all?) and revenge, love, and the fact that looks can often be deceiving.

Some notable quotes:

“What was love, really? … Love was hard. It was a choice to seek the best for the object of one’s love. It was not selfish nor did it involve believing the worst of that someone.”

“This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously.” — FDR, Inaugural Address, 1933

“[P]eople vilify what they don’t understand. What they think is different, alien. Outside of what they consider normal.”

The story, though engaging, felt rushed, and I found the supporting cast of characters to be more memorable than Ben and Eleanor. Described by the author as a Christian “historical romantic suspense novel,” The Recluse’s Vindication is not what I would consider to be suspense; and overall, the writing lacked the depth—of history, characterization, and story—that I, personally, prefer in these types of novels.

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this second chance romantic suspense novel set in 1930's Scotland on the shores of Loch Ness. Yes...the famous Loch Ness with the monster myths surrounding it! This story touches on happenings before WWII so has some suspenseful mystery surrounding the main character stemming from events that happened 16 years earlier still haunting him and newer mystery and intrigue working to get children at risk from the Nazis from pre-WWII Germany.

This is a shorter story - novella length which is very refreshing to have a short, complete story. I was able to read this one pretty quickly. It's well written and the story flows quickly from beginning to end at a fast pace. I hope the author does a second installment for the "after" story because I feel there is more there (don't want to elaborate since I don't like to give spoilers).

The romance is kisses only. This is a Christian fiction book with bible references in it so readers looking for Clean Christian Historical fiction with some light mystery and suspense may enjoy this one. There is some violence in the story that may affect some sensitive readers but it's done in a way that protects the character as much as possible and is a central part of the plot. I really liked the book and hope you do too if you've gotten to this point in my review.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an Advanced Release Copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own without influence from reading the ARC.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical Romantic Suspense books are are always an interesting read. The Recluse's Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti is the latest in this genre that I have read. The books is part of a series written by various authors, Our House on Heather Wynd.

I dove right into the book as I have been excited about the release. The setting is 1933 in Bieldfell. Scotland. The main characters are American cowboy Benjamin Ford and Eleanor Finch. Ben has been living in Scotland for 16 years, having fled from American after killing a man in self defense. Eleanor has always had hope she would eventually find Ben, her friend and cares for him deeply, even after many years. Ben is quite surprised when Eleanor shows up in Scotland after 16 years of him hiding out there. Unfortunately, Eleanor isn't the only one who came to Scotland to find Ben, as hunters also discovered his whereabouts and followed Eleanor. I really enjoyed reading Ben and Eleanor's story and how they reunited. Eleanor never stopped thinking of Ben and their reunion gives them a chance to rekindle their friendship and express their true feelings after all these years. I also like that the author incorporates Faith into the book. The story has so many twists and turns, which kept me captivated and focused on the story. The book is Action Packed Suspense and Romance. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romantic Suspense. FANTASTIC BOOK!

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

4.5 stars

This was a really good Christian historical romance novella with some tension and suspense. Set in Scotland, on the edge of the Loch Ness, in the 1930s, Ben has been hiding out for 16 years after he killed a man to protect his best friend / sweetheart. He works to smuggle children out of Nazi Germany. Eleanor has been search for Ben for those same 16 years. Life has been difficult as rumors flew about her and she found herself ostracized. However, their reunion was anything but expected. They have to navigate their unmet expectations and seek to work together to hear the truth and figure things out. There are also a couple children involved in the story, which definitely adds to things. As a relative of the boy killed long ago still wants revenge, they start looking over their shoulders as danger lurks. But danger is also rumored to lurk in the Loch Ness. I love that the Loch Ness Monster was included in this tale. I’ve come to think that perhaps the Loch Ness Monster was an Elasmosaur, or some other type of water dinosaur, so this was a really fun aspect to imagine. At the end, I couldn’t put the book down! This is a just kisses romance, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

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

[Jean Volk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Danielle Grandinetti delivers a deeply moving tale set in the haunting beauty of 1930s Scotland. The Recluse’s Vindication follows Benjamin Ford, a reclusive American cowboy hiding from a painful past, and Eleanor Finch, the childhood friend who refuses to give up on him. Their reunion is tender, raw, and full of emotional depth.

I was drawn in by the suspense, the historical backdrop, and the quiet strength of both characters. Ben’s mission to rescue children from Nazi Germany added urgency and heart, while Eleanor’s unwavering hope brought light to the shadows he carried. The Loch Ness setting, layered with myth and mystery, was the perfect touch.

This story is more than romance—it’s about healing, forgiveness, and finding courage when the world feels broken. If you love historical fiction with faith woven in and characters who fight for love and truth, this one will stay with you long after the last page.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle Grandinetti is a fabulously talented author and I immensely enjoyed reading her new book The Recluse’s Vindication. It is an absolutely fantastic historical novel set in Scotland but also featuring America and Germany. A beautiful second chance romance and the chance to become a family, despite the dangers lurking, amidst the dreadful horrors of war and the secretive plans of whisking away those in danger. It is also a story of redemption and second chances with God and those we care most about in this life. The descriptiveness of the scenery and the comparisons between the beauty of Blue Spruce, Montana and Bieldfell, Scotland just adds to the romantic and familial aspects of the story. I received a complimentary copy of this book and am not required to write a positive review. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.

[Bethany Aich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical fiction almost always sucks me in. This book was no exception. Thankfully, it is novella-length, as I read it in basically a day.

The MC has a lot of death on his hands, and I found the mentions of that to be a bit repetitive (where the four stars comes in), but the story as a whole was one that warmed my heart, even as I wondered how everything would work out.

The cameos from other books were fun, but this still works great as a standalone.

Romance: a couple of kisses that were thankfully without description

Violence: we hear of it but don’t actually see much. There is a brief gunfight, but no on-page deaths

Thanks to Miss Grandinetti for an early copy of this book. I enjoyed my trip back through time.

[Betti · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus.

Ben left home under a cloud 16 years earlier. Since then, he has been working with government intelligence in Europe, as 1933 is bringing many changes - for Europe and those who are unwanted. His handler and friend, Agnes Blair, gives him his assignments.

Eleanor still hopes and waits for Ben to return. Given the chance to go and find him, she leaves for Scotland with Hiram, Ben’s old friend. Will they find him and will he welcome them if and when they do? Can his actions many years earlier be forgiven and vindicated? Time will tell.

An early copy was received through Hearth Spot Press and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a unique story, since the hero has been on the run for over a decade for killing a man in self defense. When he and Eleanor, the girl he defended, are re-united, she tries to show him that he is not defined by what he considers his lowest point.

I thought that the author did a wonderful job of tackling some difficult subjects with this story, as well as a difficult situation. The characters are well written and I enjoyed exploring some of the themes in it. The story gave me something to think on of the changes that can happen in 16 years and how people don't stay the same. I look forward to reading more of the books in this series.

I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.

[Chosengirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eleanor is going to find her childhood friend who's is in Scotland. Ben has left everything and everyone behind. Something happened when he was younger and he felt he needed to leave. One of the people he left was Eleanor. When she shows up in the town he is living in he is not prepared to see her. The two of them are happy to see each other but much has changed. This is another great book by Danielle Grandinettti that will keep you turning the pages till the end. Love, intrigue and mystery are all part of this amazing book. I was given a copy of this book by the author. All thoughts are my own.

[Caroline Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another page-turning read from Danielle Grandinetti. Set in 1930s Scotland, this novel brings us cowboys, spies, romance, second chances and… the Loch Ness Monster! Falsely accused of murder sixteen years ago, Benjamin Ford fled to Europe, ending up in Bieldfell. Now Eleanor Finch has travelled thousands of miles to find him. But will history repeat itself, or will events offer them a new beginning? Danielle weaves a wonderful story, and while this is a stand-alone novel, she has incorporated favourite characters from her Harboured in Crow’s Nest series and The Italian Musician’s Sanctuary.

[Dienece Darling · Rating 4 out of 5]

A page turner

I really enjoyed reading this book. So many things kept me turning the page from a hurt, gruff hero to his faithful girl, a cute little orphan, and so much more. I really liked the side characters (especially that they get a happily ever after too). I even enjoyed the loch ness monster part and I had been sceptical of that part. Oh, and I loved that the author ended up including Gretna Green! That's usually a Regency thing and I liked it in this Depression Era, Christian, historical suspense romance.