The Hermitage

by Richard Taylor

The Hermitage In 16th century Spain a religious artifact was stolen by English privateers from the body of St James, the apostle. Over the centuries it has been hidden in a Cornish village and protected by a devout order of nuns. Under torture the last surviving nun reveals that the priceless article is hidden at a hermitage in an adjacent village. A London couple, Simon and Louisa, who are recent benefactors of the hermitage have no idea what is hidden within the walls of their new home. Strange things start happening but with the help of a local historian they discover why violent people are searching for something that only they know the whereabouts of. Due to Simon having an affair with a local girl the couple split, and it is left to Louisa to resolve the mystery of a religious artifact believed to have been actually carved by the hands of Jesus Christ.

416 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 22, 2025

Reviews

[Danny · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was a compelling mystery & thriller set within the picturesque region of Cornwall, specifically the Tamar Valley and its adjacent areas, which resulted in a unique sense of place that I really liked. as it jumped back and forth between this main location and London, with Spain in the final third act climax. The mystery surrounding what exactly this religious artifact that acts as the main macguffin the novel is - and why the antagonists want it so much - centres around was well-executed. The latter half of the book was a tense, suspenseful cat & mouse chase between the main character and the antagonists, an mysterious organization who are shown to be willing to resort to violent, ruthless tactics in order acquire this artifact. The fact that the main character was a middle-aged older woman was something that I do not see often in fiction, and made for a refreshing change compared to most books which often default to younger woman protagonists. We see her dealing with her increasingly unhappy and dysfunctional marriage with her husband, which made me want to sympathise and root for her as a protagonist as she is put through some very unpleasant trauma and ordeals by the main antagonists as the narrative progresses.

My only sole criticism is that the pacing of the beginning portion was a bit slow to get going. I would have liked it to get into the meat of the plot a bit sooner, even though it does do vital work to set up the central mysteries of the artifact. The plot pacing overall gets better and better as it progresses into the more tense second act and fast-paced third act so it is forgivable enough.

I highly recommend giving this a read if you love mystery & thrillers.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was captivated by The Hermitage because it delivers so much more than just a historical mystery. Richard Taylor gives us a story that is layered with themes of faith, betrayal, human resilience, and the enduring power of history. The stolen relic at the center of the story, hidden away for centuries, is an incredible hook, but what makes the book special is how the present-day characters are impacted by its existence.

Simon and Louisa’s journey is filled with emotional complexity. Simon’s affair was a tough element to read about because it felt so real, It was heartbreaking but also grounded the story in human imperfection. Louisa, however, rises above her pain with such strength that she became my favorite character. Her role in uncovering the artifact’s secrets was both thrilling and inspiring.

The pacing of the story was ideal: never rushed, but always with a sense of forward motion. Every chapter seemed to add another piece to the puzzle, whether historical or personal. The inclusion of the local historian was brilliant, giving readers insight into the past while keeping the story anchored in the present.

I recommend The Hermitage to readers who enjoy intelligent mysteries with a historical backbone, and to writers who want to see how character flaws and emotional stakes can make a suspenseful story even more compelling.

[Roxanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading The Hermitage was like unwrapping a carefully layered mystery where every detail mattered. The historical theft of the relic was fascinating on its own, but what made this book memorable was how those events tied into Simon and Louisa’s modern-day story. The danger they face felt real, and the mystery surrounding the hermitage gave the novel an eerie yet sacred tone. Simon’s mistakes were frustrating, but they allowed Louisa to shine as a strong, independent heroine who refuses to back down. I found myself admiring her courage throughout the book. The inclusion of the local historian was brilliant, He helped the story feel authentic while adding an extra layer of suspense. Taylor’s writing style is descriptive without being heavy, which made the pacing flow naturally. I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy historical thrillers with heart, and to writers who want to study how emotional conflict can enrich a mystery.

[Noble · Rating 5 out of 5]

The suspense in The Hermitage was relentless. I loved how Taylor didn’t reveal too much too soon, Every chapter seemed to hold back just enough to keep me reading. The mystery surrounding the hermitage and its hidden artifact built like a slow-burning fire until I couldn’t put the book down. I often found myself wondering who could be trusted and who might betray Louisa. The scenes of danger were particularly well crafted, never overdone but always enough to quicken my pulse. This book proves that suspense doesn’t need to rely on cheap tricks; it can be built naturally through atmosphere, secrets, and human fear.

[SOFIA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Louisa was, hands down, the reason I loved this book. In many thrillers, women are often portrayed as side characters, but here, she carried the weight of the story with grace and determination. After Simon’s betrayal, she could have easily been written as broken, but instead, Taylor gave her resilience. She wasn’t perfect, which made her feel even more real, but she was courageous enough to face both emotional pain and physical danger. Louisa represents strength born from hardship, and I found her incredibly inspiring. Readers who love strong female leads will definitely connect with her journey.

[Drake Phyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a history student, I was completely captivated by this book. The level of historical detail about St. James, 16th-century Spain, and the secretive order of nuns was remarkable, It felt meticulously researched and authentic. The story made me want to dive deeper into that period of history. What I appreciated most was how the author balanced education and entertainment: I never felt like I was being lectured, yet I came away knowing more about religious relics and the historical tensions between Spain and England. I will be recommending this to my fellow classmates, as it’s a brilliant example of how historical fiction can be both gripping and educational.

[Abraham Jude · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The shifting focus between past events and present dangers was smooth and engaging. Taylor has a great eye for detail, and his descriptions made Cornwall come alive. The tension built up gradually but effectively, and I was eager to see how the story would unfold. Louisa’s role in resolving the mystery was inspiring, especially after the personal challenges she faced. This is a book I’d gladly recommend to fellow book lovers, especially those who appreciate history driven mysteries.

[Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

What impressed me most about The Hermitage was the way it balanced suspense and history. The backstory of the artifact was captivating, and the idea that it might have been carved by Jesus gave the novel real emotional power. I also appreciated the way the personal relationships shaped the story, Simon’s choices made the stakes higher, and Louisa’s bravery carried the book beautifully. Readers who enjoy both intelligent mysteries and human drama will definitely enjoy this. Writers can also take notes on how well Richard uses setting to enhance the story.

[Melvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hermitage instantly drew me in with its blend of history and suspense. The stolen relic from St. James added so much depth, and the way it resurfaced centuries later in Cornwall felt believable and intriguing. Louisa’s character especially stood out, Her strength after Simon’s betrayal made the mystery even more powerful. I would happily recommend this novel to other readers who enjoy intelligent historical thrillers and to writers who want to study how to balance character drama with gripping suspense.

[Rousey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciated how Richard Taylor didn’t shy away from portraying Simon’s weaknesses. His affair with a local girl was painful to read, but it made the story human. People make bad choices, and Simon’s flaws gave the novel authenticity. His betrayal raised the emotional stakes and shifted the focus to Louisa’s strength. Instead of being a simple hero, Simon was a reminder of how personal failings can impact not just relationships but also larger, unexpected events. For me, that realism set this book apart. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy flawed, three-dimensional characters.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cornwall itself felt like a character in this story. The rugged cliffs, the quiet villages, the sea air-it all created an atmosphere that was both beautiful and haunting. Taylor’s descriptions were so vivid that I could almost picture the hermitage standing on the edge of a stormy landscape, holding its secrets within. The contrast between such a peaceful place and the violent search for the relic made the tension even stronger. I think this book would appeal to readers who love immersive settings. For writers, it’s a wonderful example of how to use place to amplify mood and suspense.

[Jadolita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard prose in The Hermitage was one of the highlights for me. The writing is descriptive without dragging, and elegant without being pretentious. I admired how he could describe a storm over the Cornish coast in just a few sentences yet make it feel cinematic. His dialogue felt natural, never forced, and the pacing of the narrative was masterful. As someone who appreciates good writing craft, I found myself pausing more than once to admire how smoothly the sentences flowed. This book isn’t just a good story, It’s well written, and that makes it stand out.

[The Myth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book left me with a mix of emotions: tension, sadness, admiration, and hope. Simon’s betrayal broke my heart, but Louisa’s strength rebuilt it. The relic’s history fascinated me, but the danger surrounding it scared me. Few novels manage to balance history, mystery, and raw emotion as well as this one. I finished the last chapter feeling both satisfied and thoughtful. To me, that’s the sign of a great read. I would recommend The Hermitage to readers who want more than just thrills-they want to feel something, too.

[Hayley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found the antagonists in The Hermitage particularly well drawn. They weren’t just faceless “bad guys” after a treasure; their obsession felt believable, even frightening. The violence they were willing to commit over a centuries-old relic was chilling, and it showed just how much power history can hold over the present. The conflict never felt exaggerated, It felt like something that could genuinely happen, which made the stakes even higher. For readers who enjoy thrillers with grounded, credible villains, this book will not disappoint.

[GIOVANNI · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing that stood out to me in The Hermitage was the pacing. Taylor builds the story like a crescendo, starting with historical intrigue before gradually layering in suspense, betrayal, and danger. Nothing felt rushed, but it also never dragged. Every chapter revealed just enough to keep me curious, yet still hungry for more. By the time Louisa was left to face the mystery on her own, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. This book is a perfect example of how to keep readers hooked from beginning to end without overwhelming them.

[Worre · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I appreciated most about this book was how real the relationships felt. Simon’s affair was hurtful, but also believable, It showed how human weakness can ripple outward, complicating lives far beyond a private mistake. Louisa’s hurt and eventual independence felt raw and authentic. Their dynamic wasn’t sugarcoated, and that gave the story a grounded quality even amidst its larger-than-life mystery. For me, that realism made the stakes feel even higher. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy emotional depth as much as action.

[Eleanor Seth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. Richard Taylor has done something rare, He has managed to make centuries-old history feel alive and relevant. The idea of an artifact possibly carved by the hands of Christ was so compelling, and the way the mystery was revealed through the historian’s help gave it such authenticity. I was hooked not only by the plot but also by the very human struggles between Simon and Louisa. It’s a story of betrayal, resilience, and faith. I will gladly recommend The Hermitage to any reader who enjoys a historical thriller with heart and substance.

[Avery Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Few books manage to balance history and fiction as beautifully as The Hermitage. From the opening chapters, I was drawn into the atmosphere of secrets, religious devotion, and hidden relics. The transitions between past and present were done smoothly, never pulling me out of the story. I particularly admired how Louisa’s character grew after Simon’s affair, Her courage and determination made her the true hero of the novel. For those who enjoy historical intrigue with a strong emotional core, I would definitely recommend this book to my friends.

[Valentina Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hermitage is a novel that lingers in your thoughts long after you finish reading. The haunting atmosphere of Cornwall, the tension around the artifact, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters all made for a deeply satisfying read. I admired the nuns’ devotion and sacrifice, which gave the book a spiritual weight beyond just the mystery. Richard Taylor’s storytelling is layered and elegant, pulling you into every scene. If you’re a book lover who values both suspense and substance, this book deserves a spot on your shelf.

[Kelly Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a marvelous book. Richard Taylor’s descriptive writing brought the Cornish village and the hermitage vividly to life. I could feel the damp stone walls, hear the whispers of history, and sense the danger lurking around every corner. The plot unfolded like a puzzle, each piece snapping into place with perfect timing. Louisa’s transformation from a betrayed wife into a determined heroine was the highlight for me. I would happily recommend The Hermitage to anyone who enjoys well-crafted historical thrillers with complex characters.

[Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard Taylor masterfully wove history and modern tension together. The Cornish setting was atmospheric, and I could almost feel the ancient stones of the hermitage holding their secrets. Louisa’s bravery made the second half of the book unforgettable. This is a story that lingers with you after the final page. I would recommend it to book lovers who enjoy mysteries with heart, and also to authors who want to learn how to build atmosphere and suspense.

[Divine Being · Rating 5 out of 5]

The mystery in The Hermitage was beautifully constructed. I liked how it didn’t rely on random twists, but instead unfolded naturally. The clues were there if you paid attention, and yet the final picture only revealed itself when all the pieces came together. Louisa’s gradual discoveries mirrored my own as a reader, I felt like I was solving the puzzle right alongside her. This is the kind of mystery that rewards careful reading while still delivering an exciting, satisfying conclusion.

[Jonna Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

The hermitage itself was one of the most memorable parts of this story. Richard wrote it with such detail that it felt alive like a silent witness to centuries of secrets. I could picture the cold stone walls, the echoes of footsteps, the hidden spaces where danger might lurk. It carried an eerie, almost sacred weight that added layers of tension to every scene set within it. The setting wasn’t just a backdrop; it was a living presence that made the entire story more compelling.

[Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hermitage raises fascinating moral questions. How far should people go to protect something sacred? What makes a relic valuable-its material worth, or the faith it inspires? And what happens when greed collides with devotion? These questions stayed with me long after I closed the book. Taylor doesn’t force answers on the reader, but instead invites reflection. For me, that made the story more than just a thriller, It became a meditation on history, morality, and belief.

[David Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I loved most about The Hermitage was the atmosphere, It’s moody, layered, and deeply immersive. The slow unraveling of the artifact’s mystery kept me reading late into the night. The blend of real history with fictional suspense is perfectly balanced. A must-read for lovers of historical fiction and for writers who want to see how to build tension naturally.

[Linda Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hermitage was gripping from the first page. Non stop page turning, intelligent entertainment. Once through all the twists and turns of an international chase, just when you thought everything was in place the epilogue takes the reader into a different dimension leaving me wanting to read more of Taylor's work. The book is excellent and recommended.

[Neil Wrigglesworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent factual adventure romp through the Devon/ Cornwall borderlands with a Spanish twist at the end. Believable visceral mob type action throughout the book. A must for anyone living around Plymouth and its environs as local villages and landmarks are brought to life. The local dialects are extremely well handled in the narrative. An all round excellent read based on actual history.

[Chris Hadlington · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping story. love how it's set in Cornwall but linked to London. a great read.

[James Statton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tense book with plenty of intrigue presented through an interesting religious lens. Well worth checking out.