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The House of the Witch
Now: When Adrianna arrives at the small, run-down cottage, near the sea in rural Norfolk, she can’t help but breathe a sigh of relief. Here she can forget her life in the city, and the problems she’s left behind there, at least for a while.
But – like Adrianna herself – the cottage holds secrets. And when Adrianna finds a mysterious bundle of notes hidden under a floorboard, she can’t shake the idea that they’ve been waiting for her. Especially when – in the rambling, overgrown garden – she then finds a strangely-carved stone, drawing her into a centuries-old mystery…
1646: Between her work as the village midwife and the medicines she sells from her cottage, Ursula has no need for a man. But this ideal leaves her unprotected in a world where just one accusation of witchcraft can mean certain death. So when she catches the eye of a powerful new local doctor, she must use every part of her cunning, or risk becoming his prisoner…
Can the two women – their paths bound by place and history – each find the keys to their own destiny?
But – like Adrianna herself – the cottage holds secrets. And when Adrianna finds a mysterious bundle of notes hidden under a floorboard, she can’t shake the idea that they’ve been waiting for her. Especially when – in the rambling, overgrown garden – she then finds a strangely-carved stone, drawing her into a centuries-old mystery…
1646: Between her work as the village midwife and the medicines she sells from her cottage, Ursula has no need for a man. But this ideal leaves her unprotected in a world where just one accusation of witchcraft can mean certain death. So when she catches the eye of a powerful new local doctor, she must use every part of her cunning, or risk becoming his prisoner…
Can the two women – their paths bound by place and history – each find the keys to their own destiny?
328 pages, Paperback
Published August 9, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 378 reviews
October 15, 2024
Poorly executed.
Absolutely in the minority it seems, other than the 2 ladies i buddy read this with... I am at a loss for words. I was really looking forward to this. It started strong and from about 40% it really fell apart.
Addie was one dimensional and never questioned anything Rick did. I think the message of domestic abuse really missed the mark here. There was no context of why Addie accepted how Rick was treating her or what either of them were like before their relationship or why Addie ended up with Rick. It could have been explored so much better and with depth. As readers we knew this was the case , but it was a guessing game.
I liked the story being told through Ursulas eyes, from her journals but again, this got repetitive and nothing was really built upon.
There was very little emotion and I felt barely any connection to either women. Other than the fear Ursula felt from Oliver, that was palpable at times.
This story could have been told in a much more nuanced way but unfortunately it missed the mark on many aspects.
Absolutely in the minority it seems, other than the 2 ladies i buddy read this with... I am at a loss for words. I was really looking forward to this. It started strong and from about 40% it really fell apart.
Addie was one dimensional and never questioned anything Rick did. I think the message of domestic abuse really missed the mark here. There was no context of why Addie accepted how Rick was treating her or what either of them were like before their relationship or why Addie ended up with Rick. It could have been explored so much better and with depth. As readers we knew this was the case , but it was a guessing game.
I liked the story being told through Ursulas eyes, from her journals but again, this got repetitive and nothing was really built upon.
There was very little emotion and I felt barely any connection to either women. Other than the fear Ursula felt from Oliver, that was palpable at times.
This story could have been told in a much more nuanced way but unfortunately it missed the mark on many aspects.
October 15, 2024
1.5 rounded up for Goodreads
The premise of this book had so much potential but the author completely missed the mark. It felt like a dollar store Weyward mixed with a little temu Birth House. It could have said so much about gendered abuse throughout time and at the start it seemed to be heading that way but a lack of character development, nuance, and context resulted in an infuriating read that made women seem as unstable and easily manipulated as the patriarchy would like us to believe. Ursula’s storyline from the 1600s was more engaging than the present timeline and it was why I kept reading but it eventually became so repetitive and underdeveloped. By the end I was so frustrated by both storylines and they seemed completely pointless with no clear message except for the author having to actually write out what her message is. I chalk this up to poor developmental editing coupled with weak writing skills.
The premise of this book had so much potential but the author completely missed the mark. It felt like a dollar store Weyward mixed with a little temu Birth House. It could have said so much about gendered abuse throughout time and at the start it seemed to be heading that way but a lack of character development, nuance, and context resulted in an infuriating read that made women seem as unstable and easily manipulated as the patriarchy would like us to believe. Ursula’s storyline from the 1600s was more engaging than the present timeline and it was why I kept reading but it eventually became so repetitive and underdeveloped. By the end I was so frustrated by both storylines and they seemed completely pointless with no clear message except for the author having to actually write out what her message is. I chalk this up to poor developmental editing coupled with weak writing skills.
August 8, 2024
A fabulous dual time-line story set in present day and back in 1646. Creepy House with strange markings in the fireplace and right next to a graveyard. I enjoyed this very much and was very interested in the olden Times. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
July 14, 2024
The House of the Witch by Clare Marchant is a finely crafted, captivating and enlightening novel set in two timelines: 1646 and 2024. Everything swirls around and is affected by the historical thread. This woman who worked with herbs, delivered babies and tried to live a quiet simple life gets classed as a witch because she refuses the advances of a married man. Her words reach into the future and make a big impact on another woman— also under the control of a nasty man.
Details are vivid and every moment crisp with amazing descriptions that pulled me in. There are many beautiful passages where I could feel every movement, hear every sound and watch events unfold. Some scenes made me cringe from the horrific treatment of these two women. The author paints a painful existence of abuse. One woman is made to feel inferior and even crazy. The other is labelled falsely as a witch for refusing to bend to a man’s desires. In both timelines, there are men who want to dominate and control women. The author has provided quite an intense and, at times, graphic picture of this behaviour that filled my eyes with tears. Although suffering is well depicted, we also see admirable courage of those who fought back. I won’t forget this novel any time soon as there are strong images now lodged in my mind!
Ursula of 1646 does not want a relationship because of what her mother experienced at the hands of her cruel father. She chooses to live alone a quiet life, tending to her herbs, delivering babies and helping the sick when needed. But no matter how hard she tries, that peaceful existence seems elusive, especially after she is seen and hunted down by a dreadful doctor who gets it in his head he must have her as a mistress. Ursula makes it clear on every occasion she is not interested and wishes he would return to his ill wife and children that he has left on their own. He claims he wants to do medical research and asks to compare notes with Ursula but it is not her expertise he seeks but her bed. He is a very creepy character that would make anyone shudder! He does not give up and employs a spy to watch her moves. And when that fails, he tries other tactics that include destroying her reputation and credibility. And soon she is labelled a witch. The next part of the story had me on the edge of my seat and watching in horror what was to come as a result.
In the 2024 timeline, we meet Adrianna who works in an important financial position in London but something happens that dwindles her confidence. One thing after another brings her undone so she takes a six month sabbatical and heads north to rural coastal Norfolk where she stays in an old cottage that was once the residence of a 1646 herbalist named Ursula. Adrianna discovers a hidden journal of this woman in the cottage and learns of her trials. Between this written account of Ursula’s life, some old stones with strange markings, plus another unexpected find, Adrianna is plunged into a centuries old mystery that begins to parallel her own life. There is a fascinating bird in this story, too, that bridges the gap of centuries and adds a nice paranormal touch! During Adrianna’s stay in the village, she learns a lot about herself but also her heart awakens to the type of man she has been living with. And it is not a pretty revelation!
I was taken with both timelines and although the historical is always most intriguing to me, the modern thread kept me on the edge as I hoped Adrianna would see what was in front of her. There are some magnificent twists in Ursula’s story and Adrianna’s, too, that made me happy as I wanted to see a positive outcome for them both. After taking a firm stand, justice is served on their behalf. Yes, all a bit cryptic I know but I don’t want to give anything away. It is quite a dramatic journey for these women that should be experienced by the reader. I will say I love that Ursula’s words from the ancient past help Adrianna with her dilemma in the present. For a moment in time, the centuries between them melt away.
I am glad to have read this gripping story of courage, resilience, history, triumph, discovery and hard fought freedom. These victim women, worlds apart, ultimately rise to the top. Finally, as champions of their own destinies. I highly recommend The House of the Witch! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a review copy.
Details are vivid and every moment crisp with amazing descriptions that pulled me in. There are many beautiful passages where I could feel every movement, hear every sound and watch events unfold. Some scenes made me cringe from the horrific treatment of these two women. The author paints a painful existence of abuse. One woman is made to feel inferior and even crazy. The other is labelled falsely as a witch for refusing to bend to a man’s desires. In both timelines, there are men who want to dominate and control women. The author has provided quite an intense and, at times, graphic picture of this behaviour that filled my eyes with tears. Although suffering is well depicted, we also see admirable courage of those who fought back. I won’t forget this novel any time soon as there are strong images now lodged in my mind!
Ursula of 1646 does not want a relationship because of what her mother experienced at the hands of her cruel father. She chooses to live alone a quiet life, tending to her herbs, delivering babies and helping the sick when needed. But no matter how hard she tries, that peaceful existence seems elusive, especially after she is seen and hunted down by a dreadful doctor who gets it in his head he must have her as a mistress. Ursula makes it clear on every occasion she is not interested and wishes he would return to his ill wife and children that he has left on their own. He claims he wants to do medical research and asks to compare notes with Ursula but it is not her expertise he seeks but her bed. He is a very creepy character that would make anyone shudder! He does not give up and employs a spy to watch her moves. And when that fails, he tries other tactics that include destroying her reputation and credibility. And soon she is labelled a witch. The next part of the story had me on the edge of my seat and watching in horror what was to come as a result.
In the 2024 timeline, we meet Adrianna who works in an important financial position in London but something happens that dwindles her confidence. One thing after another brings her undone so she takes a six month sabbatical and heads north to rural coastal Norfolk where she stays in an old cottage that was once the residence of a 1646 herbalist named Ursula. Adrianna discovers a hidden journal of this woman in the cottage and learns of her trials. Between this written account of Ursula’s life, some old stones with strange markings, plus another unexpected find, Adrianna is plunged into a centuries old mystery that begins to parallel her own life. There is a fascinating bird in this story, too, that bridges the gap of centuries and adds a nice paranormal touch! During Adrianna’s stay in the village, she learns a lot about herself but also her heart awakens to the type of man she has been living with. And it is not a pretty revelation!
I was taken with both timelines and although the historical is always most intriguing to me, the modern thread kept me on the edge as I hoped Adrianna would see what was in front of her. There are some magnificent twists in Ursula’s story and Adrianna’s, too, that made me happy as I wanted to see a positive outcome for them both. After taking a firm stand, justice is served on their behalf. Yes, all a bit cryptic I know but I don’t want to give anything away. It is quite a dramatic journey for these women that should be experienced by the reader. I will say I love that Ursula’s words from the ancient past help Adrianna with her dilemma in the present. For a moment in time, the centuries between them melt away.
I am glad to have read this gripping story of courage, resilience, history, triumph, discovery and hard fought freedom. These victim women, worlds apart, ultimately rise to the top. Finally, as champions of their own destinies. I highly recommend The House of the Witch! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a review copy.
October 24, 2024
Using two different time periods, author Clare Marchant compares and contrasts two women, Ursula in 1648, and Adriana in the present. She shows how cultural and institutional bigotry have corrosive effects on those it is used against, and how easily abuse can be normalized and condoned.
In the present, Adriana rents a cottage in rural Norfolk. She's there to lick her professional wounds and is on sabbatical from her demanding job as a project manager. Her boyfriend Rick isn't happy she won't be in London with him, and is a little peeved that she won't leave him her car. But she does remind him that he's living in her swanky apartment in London. Adriana soon finds Rick to be displeased that she's enjoying a country life, with him dismissing her new friendships and interest in gardening.
While puttering around, she finds a bundle of notes under a floorboard, and feels these are important. She begins reading, and is drawn into the life of Ursula, a midwife in the mid-17th century, who happened to live in the same cottage.
In 1648, Ursula helps the women of her village to birth their children, and also prepares herbal remedies for a variety of illnesses and complaints. As a single woman resistant to ever taking a husband (her immigrant mother was abused), Ursula is seen as an anomaly, and an oddity, and she knows that it's a quick hop and skip from that to someone labelling her a witch.
When a wealthy man arrives in town, he immediately decides that he wants Ursula, and tells her so. She resists, at which point he begins a campaign to discredit her, which is too successful, and Ursula knows she's on very dangerous ground; i.e. witch accusation….
Marchant switches back and forth between Adriana and Ursula, ratcheting up the tension and danger in Ursula's life, while dismantling the fictions Adriana has come to believe about herself and her life in London.
Ursula's chapters were particularly interesting, and I liked the idea that this lone woman, despite the increasing peril she's in, maintains her principles and refuses to give in to the increasingly nasty demands of her aggressor.
Adriana's chapters were interesting, but I knew what was going on from early in chapter one, and it was just a matter of time waiting for Adriana to catch up to what was obvious.
I liked the recurring motif in the form of the bird in both timelines, and though I enjoyed this book, wished that Adriana's story had been more complex.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Boldwood Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.
In the present, Adriana rents a cottage in rural Norfolk. She's there to lick her professional wounds and is on sabbatical from her demanding job as a project manager. Her boyfriend Rick isn't happy she won't be in London with him, and is a little peeved that she won't leave him her car. But she does remind him that he's living in her swanky apartment in London. Adriana soon finds Rick to be displeased that she's enjoying a country life, with him dismissing her new friendships and interest in gardening.
While puttering around, she finds a bundle of notes under a floorboard, and feels these are important. She begins reading, and is drawn into the life of Ursula, a midwife in the mid-17th century, who happened to live in the same cottage.
In 1648, Ursula helps the women of her village to birth their children, and also prepares herbal remedies for a variety of illnesses and complaints. As a single woman resistant to ever taking a husband (her immigrant mother was abused), Ursula is seen as an anomaly, and an oddity, and she knows that it's a quick hop and skip from that to someone labelling her a witch.
When a wealthy man arrives in town, he immediately decides that he wants Ursula, and tells her so. She resists, at which point he begins a campaign to discredit her, which is too successful, and Ursula knows she's on very dangerous ground; i.e. witch accusation….
Marchant switches back and forth between Adriana and Ursula, ratcheting up the tension and danger in Ursula's life, while dismantling the fictions Adriana has come to believe about herself and her life in London.
Ursula's chapters were particularly interesting, and I liked the idea that this lone woman, despite the increasing peril she's in, maintains her principles and refuses to give in to the increasingly nasty demands of her aggressor.
Adriana's chapters were interesting, but I knew what was going on from early in chapter one, and it was just a matter of time waiting for Adriana to catch up to what was obvious.
I liked the recurring motif in the form of the bird in both timelines, and though I enjoyed this book, wished that Adriana's story had been more complex.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Boldwood Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.
September 4, 2024
Another well researched and captivating Marchant book, set during the time of Mathew Hopkins. Parallel contemporary story drew me in. Fabulous read.
October 31, 2024
Another story that tells the fate of a woman healer whose community turns on them, I found this story atmospheric and perfect for Halloween.
A dual timeline, the story moves between Addie in present day as she takes up residence in a run-down cottage that holds mysterious papers; to Ursula in the seventeenth century as the paranoia of witchcraft starts to grip the country. Deciphering the ancient story, Addie starts to learn about Ursula’s life and similarly, readers are taken on this historical journey of female persecution.
I loved how atmospheric the story became: with chills, doors slamming and an unusually persistent gull. Not only that, the ambiguous dark stain on the hearth comes to bring the two women together who appear to have more in common than just the cottage that they live in. Furthermore, the control that men exert over both timelines was particularly haunting and I was desperate to see how Addie and Ursula would escape from this dominance.
Based on this, I sometimes found Addie’s behaviour a bit frustrating, especially concerning Rick. It was disappointing that she does not pick up on the warning signals, instead burying her head and explaining away all dubious actions. I wanted to see a bit of fire in Addie, a bit like what readers see in Ursula as she stands up to Oliver.
I found this another great portrayal of the witch-hunts in England during the seventeenth century, without it being too historical. The parallels established between past and present were particularly effective and I was gripped by both timelines, keen to see how the women would liberate themselves and what their conclusions would become.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A dual timeline, the story moves between Addie in present day as she takes up residence in a run-down cottage that holds mysterious papers; to Ursula in the seventeenth century as the paranoia of witchcraft starts to grip the country. Deciphering the ancient story, Addie starts to learn about Ursula’s life and similarly, readers are taken on this historical journey of female persecution.
I loved how atmospheric the story became: with chills, doors slamming and an unusually persistent gull. Not only that, the ambiguous dark stain on the hearth comes to bring the two women together who appear to have more in common than just the cottage that they live in. Furthermore, the control that men exert over both timelines was particularly haunting and I was desperate to see how Addie and Ursula would escape from this dominance.
Based on this, I sometimes found Addie’s behaviour a bit frustrating, especially concerning Rick. It was disappointing that she does not pick up on the warning signals, instead burying her head and explaining away all dubious actions. I wanted to see a bit of fire in Addie, a bit like what readers see in Ursula as she stands up to Oliver.
I found this another great portrayal of the witch-hunts in England during the seventeenth century, without it being too historical. The parallels established between past and present were particularly effective and I was gripped by both timelines, keen to see how the women would liberate themselves and what their conclusions would become.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2024
I found some of the dialogue and constant repetition of the patriarchy exhausting. As the reader you are treated as an idiot with the constant mention of “the power held by men” etc. This shouldn’t have to be mentioned with such a heavy hand and the reader should be granted some intelligence that they are already aware of some basic history or realisation of gender politics.
October 12, 2024
3.5⭐️ this was pretty good!!! I felt the ending was a touch rushed, otherwise would have given it 4⭐️
February 14, 2025
⭐️ 4.5 I really enjoyed this book lot. Easy to read & also enjoyed the writing ✍️ of the story. Did have a slight trigger warning ⚠️ . I enjoyed it 📖
January 6, 2025
This was good! I felt like I could figure out the ending but still very entertaining. I am woman hear me roar!
October 13, 2024
2.5 stars
i enjoyed the last couple chapters of the book and thought it was an incredibly wholesome ending. I also really liked the wondering how it would all play out.
I didn't particularly enjoy the writing and found it difficult to read. The dialogue was a bit clunky and it felt like it was all a bit TOO simple for the mc.
I also wish the 2 stories had been more connected? I enjoyed the moral, about not bending to anyone else's will, but I thought that aside from the ending and location there wasn't much linking them together.
i enjoyed the last couple chapters of the book and thought it was an incredibly wholesome ending. I also really liked the wondering how it would all play out.
I didn't particularly enjoy the writing and found it difficult to read. The dialogue was a bit clunky and it felt like it was all a bit TOO simple for the mc.
I also wish the 2 stories had been more connected? I enjoyed the moral, about not bending to anyone else's will, but I thought that aside from the ending and location there wasn't much linking them together.
October 5, 2024
This book is amazing right from the start to the very end. Without stating too much this is genuinely about the women’s rights and standing upto men! The ending made me very emotional. I’ve just finished this book and I cannot stop thinking about this. Yet again the author uses evidence about real life in the past. Absolute MUST read! You will not regret it!
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October 15, 2024Don’t waste your time on this book 🤦🏾♀️🤦🏾♀️🤦🏾♀️
March 18, 2025
Such an awesome book!! I think Clare Marchant is my new dual timeline author.
She is so eloquent when writing dual timelines and this mesmerizing story was proof.
The only part that flamed me that the protagonist did not dispose of what she needed to by chapter 3 or 4.
Such a meaty story with such significance in this day and time also. Don’t skip past this life’s lesson, soak it in and believe.
She is so eloquent when writing dual timelines and this mesmerizing story was proof.
The only part that flamed me that the protagonist did not dispose of what she needed to by chapter 3 or 4.
Such a meaty story with such significance in this day and time also. Don’t skip past this life’s lesson, soak it in and believe.
July 12, 2024
Firstly thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
Told with two timelines one past one present this is the story of Ursula and Adrianna women who were both being controlled by men and the outcomes in their lives .
I really enjoyed this story and certainly from the past POV it is so sad that women who just wanted to be on their own and were happy were accused of such terrible deeds with fatal outcomes in most cases . Have always been fascinated by the witch trials both here and in the US so this has been completely gripped from the start . Highly recommend 4.5 ⭐️
Told with two timelines one past one present this is the story of Ursula and Adrianna women who were both being controlled by men and the outcomes in their lives .
I really enjoyed this story and certainly from the past POV it is so sad that women who just wanted to be on their own and were happy were accused of such terrible deeds with fatal outcomes in most cases . Have always been fascinated by the witch trials both here and in the US so this has been completely gripped from the start . Highly recommend 4.5 ⭐️
November 22, 2024
Now, Adrianna needs some time to recuperate, a sabbatical from work. She rents a small cottage in rural Norfolk. She finds a bundle of notes under the floorboards and wants to know more. 1646, in the same cottage Ursula lives alone. She makes ends meet by making potions and lotions to help the sick and births babies. However this is a dangerous time for a woman such as Ursula.
This is the first time I've read a book by the author and I have to say I'm really impressed. I also enjoy dual timeline stories anyway but I really enjoyed this one.
Both women have things in common. Adrianna has a boyfriend Rick who is not what he seems. Ursula doesn't want a man in her life but has acquired the attention of Oliver Bruton and he won't take no for an answer.
I enjoyed both women's stories but I enjoyed reading about Ursula the most. Adrianna needed a good shake to see what was going on and I found her irritating at times. Ursula however was a lot stronger and I admired her. I also enjoyed the sections about how it was for a woman in the past especially at the time of witch trails.
This book was an interesting read and I really enjoyed it. I have read many books that are similar and no doubt will read more. I would read more by the author in the future.
This is the first time I've read a book by the author and I have to say I'm really impressed. I also enjoy dual timeline stories anyway but I really enjoyed this one.
Both women have things in common. Adrianna has a boyfriend Rick who is not what he seems. Ursula doesn't want a man in her life but has acquired the attention of Oliver Bruton and he won't take no for an answer.
I enjoyed both women's stories but I enjoyed reading about Ursula the most. Adrianna needed a good shake to see what was going on and I found her irritating at times. Ursula however was a lot stronger and I admired her. I also enjoyed the sections about how it was for a woman in the past especially at the time of witch trails.
This book was an interesting read and I really enjoyed it. I have read many books that are similar and no doubt will read more. I would read more by the author in the future.
September 27, 2024
The House of the Witch by Clare Marchant is an engaging blend of historical fiction and mystery, woven with elements of witchcraft and intrigue. Marchant’s storytelling captures two timelines—the present day and the 17th century—where the lives of women in both periods intertwine through secrets and a dark history. The vivid atmosphere and well-researched historical details make the past come alive, while the modern-day plot adds a layer of suspense. As a first-time reader of Marchant, her writing style and ability to craft immersive settings left a strong impression, and I’m excited to explore more of her works in the future!
August 12, 2024
Big thanks to Boldwood books, Clare Marchant and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion !
This was my first time reading this genre and it was such a lovely surprise. I was intrigued by the cover and the name of the book initially.
The fact that it was a dual timeline story was great. I’ve always wanted to read a book with the same setting in different eras and see where that connection would lead.
We start with Adrianna, who seems to be trying to get some rest after being completely burned out at work and Ursula a midwife and herbalist with the give of sight, and as the story develops we start to understand how the are linked and why their stories are told together.
I won’t spoil the rest of the story but it was such a page turner. I quickly got caught up with the both of them, and just had to know what would happen to them.
I will admit that I found Adrianna’s story a little bit too predictable compared to Ursula’s but I think having two more complex story could have lost some readers. I loved the ending, it felt good for once !
This isn’t a « fun » and light hearted read as it talks about violence, witch hunts and the role of women in our society but it did widen my horizons and make me want dig deeper into our history and the way independent women are and were treated and hunted.
February 12, 2025
Wow! Powerful and enthralling
This book simply had me hooked from the beginning between the story of much darker times when a woman could simply be accused of being a witch, tortured and tried for not doing what a man wanted to the parallels of domestic abuse in the form of emotional control in the present day. Hard subjects to cover yet the stories need to be told.
This book simply had me hooked from the beginning between the story of much darker times when a woman could simply be accused of being a witch, tortured and tried for not doing what a man wanted to the parallels of domestic abuse in the form of emotional control in the present day. Hard subjects to cover yet the stories need to be told.
August 24, 2024
3.5 (RTC)
December 23, 2024
Absolutely LOVED this book. I was hooked from the very beginning. I realized I really like the back and forth from prese t day to centuries before and how they correlate. Would 100% read again
August 10, 2024
This was a well written book. It’s told through dual timelines and moves effortlessly from past to present.,
I thought both stories were just as interesting. Two women from different times dealing with the same
issues. I was angry for both women and the unfairness of it. It’s a page turner! Definitely recommend
I thought both stories were just as interesting. Two women from different times dealing with the same
issues. I was angry for both women and the unfairness of it. It’s a page turner! Definitely recommend
June 25, 2024
Fabulous dual timeline novel. Times were hard enough for Ursula, a herbalist, in the 1630's without the unwanted attention from the new Dr Oliver Bruton. Resisting his wish to make her his mistress she puts herself in danger of being accused of witchcraft.
2024 and Adrianne moves into a cottage on the North Norfolk coast, she finds a journal hidden in the fireplace and sets about transcribing. She soon realises that her life is very similar to the author of the journal.
I love Clare Marchants books, she has the amazing ability to take her readers back in time and give a great overview in how life used to be. This novel is perfect for lovers of historical fiction and in a similar style to Barbara Erskine
2024 and Adrianne moves into a cottage on the North Norfolk coast, she finds a journal hidden in the fireplace and sets about transcribing. She soon realises that her life is very similar to the author of the journal.
I love Clare Marchants books, she has the amazing ability to take her readers back in time and give a great overview in how life used to be. This novel is perfect for lovers of historical fiction and in a similar style to Barbara Erskine
October 23, 2024
A 4.5 star read for me. This is a skilfully written, powerful and rather dark story of two women separated by the centuries and linked by a house.
21st century Adrianna has lost her confidence and takes a sabbatical in the countryside to recover her peace of mind. In the cottage, she finds evidence of an inhabitant from the 17th century.
Adrianna and Ursula are linked by more than just the cottage, as it turns out, and I enjoyed the modern character’s journey towards understanding. She has much to learn and at times I wanted to shout at her. The author cleverly helped to show how the kind of circumstance depicted can play out.
Ursula’s story was painful to read at times, but very well done and felt authentic in terms of historical period. The setting was beautifully rendered, too. I admired Ursula, who is stubborn and principled almost to a fault.
This was my first read by Clare Marchant but it won’t be my last… I've already got two of her other books on my Kindle and will look forward to reading them.
21st century Adrianna has lost her confidence and takes a sabbatical in the countryside to recover her peace of mind. In the cottage, she finds evidence of an inhabitant from the 17th century.
Adrianna and Ursula are linked by more than just the cottage, as it turns out, and I enjoyed the modern character’s journey towards understanding. She has much to learn and at times I wanted to shout at her. The author cleverly helped to show how the kind of circumstance depicted can play out.
Ursula’s story was painful to read at times, but very well done and felt authentic in terms of historical period. The setting was beautifully rendered, too. I admired Ursula, who is stubborn and principled almost to a fault.
This was my first read by Clare Marchant but it won’t be my last… I've already got two of her other books on my Kindle and will look forward to reading them.
January 9, 2025
The author said that she wrote this book really quickly and…I could tell.
Cool concept, poorly done. I usually love a dual timeline so this is a bummer.
Somehow both repetitive AND all over the place. One dimensional characters. From the beginning, the modern relationship devolving was completely predictable and the nuance of emotional abuse/manipulation was glossed over enough that I ended up being annoyed with the main character before I was sympathetic.
Was there a ghost? Was there magic? I don’t really know?
I’m also questioning the historical accuracy - love me a good herbalist/wise woman but I’m pretty sure in the 17th century even the most forward thinking healer wasn’t talking about disinfecting surfaces.
I never say this about books I don’t enjoy but I actually wanted it to be longer - more depth of characters, interactions between characters in the same timeline, exploration of the ghost and magic factor, better interaction with the bad guy/s, etc. The “twist” at the end was practically a brick wall.
Anyway. On to the next one!
Cool concept, poorly done. I usually love a dual timeline so this is a bummer.
Somehow both repetitive AND all over the place. One dimensional characters. From the beginning, the modern relationship devolving was completely predictable and the nuance of emotional abuse/manipulation was glossed over enough that I ended up being annoyed with the main character before I was sympathetic.
Was there a ghost? Was there magic? I don’t really know?
I’m also questioning the historical accuracy - love me a good herbalist/wise woman but I’m pretty sure in the 17th century even the most forward thinking healer wasn’t talking about disinfecting surfaces.
I never say this about books I don’t enjoy but I actually wanted it to be longer - more depth of characters, interactions between characters in the same timeline, exploration of the ghost and magic factor, better interaction with the bad guy/s, etc. The “twist” at the end was practically a brick wall.
Anyway. On to the next one!
August 16, 2024
I feel conflicted about this book. I loved Ursula’s story. It was gripping and compelling and really conveyed the vulnerability of her position in her time period. Adrianna’s story on the other hand was far less enjoyable. It was clear within the first two pages that her boyfriend was a terrible person (see the Range Rover saga). I get that she’s supposed to have this growth and realization for herself but as a reader, I find it incredibly annoying to read someone being mistreated so blatantly for most of the book. It detracted from every other aspect of the story. If Rick had been shown at the start as loving and carrying and then slowly we see the deception in time with Adriana’s realization, this could’ve been so good. Instead I just rolled my eyes every time he was mentioned. Unfortunately this book was a miss for me.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
dnf
August 8, 2024I would like to thank netgalley and Boldwood Books for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Poor writing.
Poor writing.
August 9, 2024
When it’s done well, dual time fiction is always rather a personal favourite – and you won’t find it done much better than this, two strong story threads, the historical one impeccably researched and delivered, the contemporary one entirely involving and emotional, both beautifully wrapped around each other with common themes and links. Beautifully written, this was a book I found completely impossible to put down, reading it in one wonderful sitting, furious at the many betrayals, shocked by the unexpected twists and turns, willing on both women as they fought for their lives in their different ways.
In 1646, Ursula has resolutely chosen to keep herself to herself – the bloodstain on the fireplace of her home a forcible reminder of the cruelty of men, in a world where women are treated as possessions with no agency or voices of their own. She quietly goes about her business – growing and gathering herbs, dispensing remedies, delivering babies – until she comes to the attention of the newly appointed local doctor, who initially shows interest in her remedies but becomes obsessed with making her his mistress. And when she makes it amply clear that he won’t have his way, he sets about destroying her reputation – at a time when the most innocent and well-meaning activities can all too easily be interpreted as witchcraft, with the most serious of consequences.
In the present day, Adrianna is taking a six month sabbatical from her high-powered job, staying in the same Norfolk cottage while she recovers from burn-out. Deciding to tackle the overgrown garden, she comes across some stones with strange markings – and indoors, after a few experiences with a touch of the supernatural, a hidden journal plainly written by a herbalist who once lived there. With the help of others in the community she slowly becomes part of, she sets out to find out more about whatever may have happened in the past – and uncovers Ursula’s story, with a number of surprising discoveries along the way. And her own life takes an equally unexpected turn, with parallels between past and present – and a real element of danger that makes the pages turn even faster.
Both stories are absolutely compelling. We witness every stage of the gross injustice of Ursula’s treatment, with exceptional historical authenticity and quite stunning emotional impact – she’s incredibly real in every way, tremendously sympathetic, and many of her horrific experiences moved me to tears. And as for Adrianna – she certainly proves to be considerably stronger than she ever believed she could be, facing every setback head on. And I really loved the resonances between the two stories – they’re both particularly strong women, both victims in their own way but drawing on unexpected reserves, both wonderfully drawn, their comparable stories spanning the centuries separating them. The supernatural elements are perfectly handled – yes, perhaps a touch disturbing at times if you’re sensitive to such things, but a wholly essential and intriguing part of the story. And the conclusion, drawing the stories together, was one of the best I could have possibly asked for – extraordinary bravery, resilience of the highest order, and an outcome that was so very satisfying and completely unexpected.
I really want to delve into the detail – the ways in which the evidence against Ursula began to mount through circumstances entirely outside her control, the small details that became increasingly damning, along with the detail about Adrianna’s life that drives her personal story. But I won’t – this is a book that everyone needs to read for themselves, to become as immersed in as I was, to become part of the individuals’ lives, to experience the heart-stopping twists and turns, to be moved by the depth of feeling that permeates the whole narrative. This really was an exceptional read, most definitely one of my books of the year, by a particularly special author whose every future book will be top of my “must read” list – I really loved it.
In 1646, Ursula has resolutely chosen to keep herself to herself – the bloodstain on the fireplace of her home a forcible reminder of the cruelty of men, in a world where women are treated as possessions with no agency or voices of their own. She quietly goes about her business – growing and gathering herbs, dispensing remedies, delivering babies – until she comes to the attention of the newly appointed local doctor, who initially shows interest in her remedies but becomes obsessed with making her his mistress. And when she makes it amply clear that he won’t have his way, he sets about destroying her reputation – at a time when the most innocent and well-meaning activities can all too easily be interpreted as witchcraft, with the most serious of consequences.
In the present day, Adrianna is taking a six month sabbatical from her high-powered job, staying in the same Norfolk cottage while she recovers from burn-out. Deciding to tackle the overgrown garden, she comes across some stones with strange markings – and indoors, after a few experiences with a touch of the supernatural, a hidden journal plainly written by a herbalist who once lived there. With the help of others in the community she slowly becomes part of, she sets out to find out more about whatever may have happened in the past – and uncovers Ursula’s story, with a number of surprising discoveries along the way. And her own life takes an equally unexpected turn, with parallels between past and present – and a real element of danger that makes the pages turn even faster.
Both stories are absolutely compelling. We witness every stage of the gross injustice of Ursula’s treatment, with exceptional historical authenticity and quite stunning emotional impact – she’s incredibly real in every way, tremendously sympathetic, and many of her horrific experiences moved me to tears. And as for Adrianna – she certainly proves to be considerably stronger than she ever believed she could be, facing every setback head on. And I really loved the resonances between the two stories – they’re both particularly strong women, both victims in their own way but drawing on unexpected reserves, both wonderfully drawn, their comparable stories spanning the centuries separating them. The supernatural elements are perfectly handled – yes, perhaps a touch disturbing at times if you’re sensitive to such things, but a wholly essential and intriguing part of the story. And the conclusion, drawing the stories together, was one of the best I could have possibly asked for – extraordinary bravery, resilience of the highest order, and an outcome that was so very satisfying and completely unexpected.
I really want to delve into the detail – the ways in which the evidence against Ursula began to mount through circumstances entirely outside her control, the small details that became increasingly damning, along with the detail about Adrianna’s life that drives her personal story. But I won’t – this is a book that everyone needs to read for themselves, to become as immersed in as I was, to become part of the individuals’ lives, to experience the heart-stopping twists and turns, to be moved by the depth of feeling that permeates the whole narrative. This really was an exceptional read, most definitely one of my books of the year, by a particularly special author whose every future book will be top of my “must read” list – I really loved it.
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