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Scuttler's Cove
The sea never forgets. The sea never forgives… Scuttler’s Cove is a working village, nestling in dramatic coastal scenery in Cornwall, where life has gone on uninterrupted for centuries… until this seaside idyll was discovered by the rich.
Now the quaint harbour-front cottages have been snapped up by second-homers and rental companies, and the locals can barely afford to live in their own town.
It is a very different place for Merrin Moon, who left for university at the age of eighteen and never looked back. Now in her thirties, she returns to the Cove for the first time since, after the death of her mother.
She soon discovers that there are forces at play in the village that she could never have imagined. Is someone trying to drive out the second homers? And has their arrival started a chain of events none of them will be able to stop?
For something old and terrible is awakening beneath the town’s hallowed ground. And with it comes a horror that the residents have fought for generations to keep a secret.
A dark and mysterious folk horror of the sea, and a timely exploration of the displacement of our modern moment, with a twist that will leave you reeling.
Now the quaint harbour-front cottages have been snapped up by second-homers and rental companies, and the locals can barely afford to live in their own town.
It is a very different place for Merrin Moon, who left for university at the age of eighteen and never looked back. Now in her thirties, she returns to the Cove for the first time since, after the death of her mother.
She soon discovers that there are forces at play in the village that she could never have imagined. Is someone trying to drive out the second homers? And has their arrival started a chain of events none of them will be able to stop?
For something old and terrible is awakening beneath the town’s hallowed ground. And with it comes a horror that the residents have fought for generations to keep a secret.
A dark and mysterious folk horror of the sea, and a timely exploration of the displacement of our modern moment, with a twist that will leave you reeling.
296 pages, Paperback
First published February 13, 2025
149 people are currently reading
3026 people want to read
About the author
David Barnett
150 books112 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
April 28, 2025
We All Have Our Sacrifices to Make...
SCUTTLER'S COVE:
A Chilling Folk Horror Thriller
by David Barnett
4 stars. School children said the ancient apple tree in a clearing at Scuttler's Cove on the Cornish coast was haunted...
And...
If you went there at night, you'd be eaten by a monster...
Long ago...
Men respected the land and the sea equally. It was a more harmonious time...
But, this is not that time...
The god of Scuttler's Cove had slept so long, like a catfish with one eye open, keeping a weather watch on its world...
But...
It had slept too long. The land and seas had become polluted. Now, he was awake, and his fury untethered...
It had all been set in motion...
Avallen, Lord of the Land and the Orchard, was a god, but men had turned him into a monster...
And, what of Endellion, The Lady of the Sea? Endellion, too, is awakened...
We all have our sacrifices to make, and everything has been set in motion...
This is an atmospheric mystery that I categorized as folklore. Just like this author's WITHERED HILL, this story is engrossing until the very end.
Speaking of WITHERED HILL, that novel and (I think an upcoming novel), SCRATCH MOSS are both mentioned briefly in this story.
This is a good book if you're looking to settle into a story centering around the Cornish coast and its ancient beliefs.
Note to my GR friend Lisa: That thing that you feared most is all throughout this book.
SCUTTLER'S COVE:
A Chilling Folk Horror Thriller
by David Barnett
4 stars. School children said the ancient apple tree in a clearing at Scuttler's Cove on the Cornish coast was haunted...
And...
If you went there at night, you'd be eaten by a monster...
Long ago...
Men respected the land and the sea equally. It was a more harmonious time...
But, this is not that time...
The god of Scuttler's Cove had slept so long, like a catfish with one eye open, keeping a weather watch on its world...
But...
It had slept too long. The land and seas had become polluted. Now, he was awake, and his fury untethered...
It had all been set in motion...
Avallen, Lord of the Land and the Orchard, was a god, but men had turned him into a monster...
And, what of Endellion, The Lady of the Sea? Endellion, too, is awakened...
We all have our sacrifices to make, and everything has been set in motion...
This is an atmospheric mystery that I categorized as folklore. Just like this author's WITHERED HILL, this story is engrossing until the very end.
Speaking of WITHERED HILL, that novel and (I think an upcoming novel), SCRATCH MOSS are both mentioned briefly in this story.
This is a good book if you're looking to settle into a story centering around the Cornish coast and its ancient beliefs.
Note to my GR friend Lisa: That thing that you feared most is all throughout this book.
December 11, 2024
Dark, eerie, chilling, horrific, and oozing with unease, Scuttler's Cove is a wonderfully creepy folk horror book! I enjoyed the mystery, the tension, the dark secrets, the mounting danger! The sea, the land, the towns people, and an apple tree hold a centuries old secret. I do not read a lot of folk horror, but if David Barnett writes it, I will read it!
In the coastal town of Cornwell, an apple tree grows. Every so often the apples come early. The townspeople know what it means and what they must do. To ensure their way of life remains balanced, certain things need to happen. They follow the ancient ways, beliefs, gods, and traditions. They are an isolated and tight-knit community where, like Cheers, everyone knows your name. But outsiders have discovered the beautiful setting and town and are buying up homes as the townspeople struggle.
When Merrin Moon left town for college, she never imagined she would come back to Scutter's Cove. But her mother has passed away and Merrin returned to take care of her mother's funeral. Back in Scutter's cove, Merrin has been reacquainted with old friends, her mother's old friends, and those she knew growing up. Things she has forgotten are beginning to come back to her as the days progress.
Jen is a young widow whose husband died in a horrific accident. She is in town with her deceased husband's friends and has formed a friendship with Merrin. Jen is drawn to the town, the apple tree.
Holy Moly! This was a great fast read that both enticed and spooked me! As I mentioned, I loved the atmosphere, the unease, the isolation, the tension, the creepy vibe of the book. The ancient ways, the history, the characters, and the sea made for a thrilling reading experience. I had no idea where this book was going to take me, but I enjoyed the twist filled creepy ride! David Barnett nailed writing vivid descriptions. I could see everything playing out in my mind as I read. I enjoyed the writing, the well thought out plot, and the characters. While I rooted for some, there were others who gave me the creeps. I could see this being made into a movie.
Dark, horrific, eerie, and hard to put down!
Thank you to Canelo Horror and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
In the coastal town of Cornwell, an apple tree grows. Every so often the apples come early. The townspeople know what it means and what they must do. To ensure their way of life remains balanced, certain things need to happen. They follow the ancient ways, beliefs, gods, and traditions. They are an isolated and tight-knit community where, like Cheers, everyone knows your name. But outsiders have discovered the beautiful setting and town and are buying up homes as the townspeople struggle.
When Merrin Moon left town for college, she never imagined she would come back to Scutter's Cove. But her mother has passed away and Merrin returned to take care of her mother's funeral. Back in Scutter's cove, Merrin has been reacquainted with old friends, her mother's old friends, and those she knew growing up. Things she has forgotten are beginning to come back to her as the days progress.
Jen is a young widow whose husband died in a horrific accident. She is in town with her deceased husband's friends and has formed a friendship with Merrin. Jen is drawn to the town, the apple tree.
Holy Moly! This was a great fast read that both enticed and spooked me! As I mentioned, I loved the atmosphere, the unease, the isolation, the tension, the creepy vibe of the book. The ancient ways, the history, the characters, and the sea made for a thrilling reading experience. I had no idea where this book was going to take me, but I enjoyed the twist filled creepy ride! David Barnett nailed writing vivid descriptions. I could see everything playing out in my mind as I read. I enjoyed the writing, the well thought out plot, and the characters. While I rooted for some, there were others who gave me the creeps. I could see this being made into a movie.
Dark, horrific, eerie, and hard to put down!
Thank you to Canelo Horror and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
November 18, 2024
I came for the crab on the cover, stayed for the folk horror that meets the moment. This book really is really timely in its commentary but also a very effective atmospheric horror tale (in other words; the commentary isn't so blunt that people who read for escapism will not be able to enjoy it).
It didn't feel nearly as long as the 273 pages long my reading app says it was, this is a testament to how well paced the story was, especially as it was kind of slow burn with a sense of unease that builds up one fragment at a time from the very beginning. Normally slow burn and atmospheric are 2 words that I wouldn't use to describe anything I enjoy (except maybe atmospheric death metal which I apparently enjoy) thanks to my lack of a functioning attention span but Barnett's writing style was so compelling and smooth that I never even stopped to think about it.
The imagery was great and unobtrusive in its introduction in the story.
Merrin and Jen were really easy to root for and to get invested in.
I received an eARC of this book through Netalley.
It didn't feel nearly as long as the 273 pages long my reading app says it was, this is a testament to how well paced the story was, especially as it was kind of slow burn with a sense of unease that builds up one fragment at a time from the very beginning. Normally slow burn and atmospheric are 2 words that I wouldn't use to describe anything I enjoy (except maybe atmospheric death metal which I apparently enjoy) thanks to my lack of a functioning attention span but Barnett's writing style was so compelling and smooth that I never even stopped to think about it.
The imagery was great and unobtrusive in its introduction in the story.
Merrin and Jen were really easy to root for and to get invested in.
I received an eARC of this book through Netalley.
September 29, 2025
3.5 Stars
Upon learning of her mother’s death, Merrin returns to her childhood home, Scuttler’s Cove. What used to be a small quaint fishing village has now become a second home to rich city people. Upon spending more time there she realizes she has forgotten a lot of the traditions and folklore the town was built upon. Around the same time Merrin arrived back in town, recently widowed Jen and her late husband’s friends have moved into a group of new homes overlooking the ocean. Both Jen and Merrin begin to have strange dreams and feel a special connection that draws them together.
This novel focuses very heavily on the folklore of Scuttler’s Cove. So much so, that it kinda went OTT at the end and ultimately led me to drop it from a 4 star rating. However, up until that point I was super invested in the plot and curious where it was going. It does appear this could be part of the same “universe” as Withered Hill which makes me very excited to see if there will be another novel.
Upon learning of her mother’s death, Merrin returns to her childhood home, Scuttler’s Cove. What used to be a small quaint fishing village has now become a second home to rich city people. Upon spending more time there she realizes she has forgotten a lot of the traditions and folklore the town was built upon. Around the same time Merrin arrived back in town, recently widowed Jen and her late husband’s friends have moved into a group of new homes overlooking the ocean. Both Jen and Merrin begin to have strange dreams and feel a special connection that draws them together.
This novel focuses very heavily on the folklore of Scuttler’s Cove. So much so, that it kinda went OTT at the end and ultimately led me to drop it from a 4 star rating. However, up until that point I was super invested in the plot and curious where it was going. It does appear this could be part of the same “universe” as Withered Hill which makes me very excited to see if there will be another novel.
February 9, 2025
3.5 stars! Rounded up for Goodreads
Title/Author: David Barnett
Page Count: 337 pages
Publisher: Canelo Horror (thank you for the early review copy!)
Format Paperback
Other Books I Enjoyed by This Author: Withered Hill (loved it!)
*didn't see this book on Bookshop.org
Release Date: February 13th, 2025
General Genre: Folk Horror
Sub-Genre/Themes: Death of a parent, moving back home, death of a spouse, rural small towns, renting a vacation home, folklore & legend, cults/rituals, occult practices, old ways vs. new ways, *animal death
Writing Style: Multiple POV
What You Need to Know: "A dark and mysterious folk horror of the sea, and a timely exploration of the displacement of our modern moment, with a twist that will leave you reeling."
My Reading Experience: David Barnett has done it again, crafting the perfect folk horror book for the Fall/Winter season. Like Withered Hill, Scuttler’s Cove is steeped in tension and dread, weaving traditional folk horror tropes into a unique, modern story. Eerie, rural small village vibes with hidden secrets are exposed slowly as the story progresses.
Once again, Barnett masterfully plays with the outsider dynamic: newcomers to this insular community stumble into what appears to be an idyllic coastal town, only to realize that something is very, very wrong beneath the surface in one POV with the MC, Jen, suffering from grief.
The other POV, Merrin Moon, has also lost someone but the death of her mother seems almost a relief. Merrin straddles the line between longtime resident and newcomer since she was born and raised in Scuttler's Cove but moved away as soon as she could. Now she's back.
The town’s residents know more than they let on, their secrets lurking in the shadows, waiting to be uncovered—but at what cost?
While the creeping tension is deliciously unsettling, the pacing does drag in certain sections. Some moments feel overly drawn out, making the build-up more frustrating than suspenseful. Still, when Scuttler’s Cove picks up speed, it delivers in all the ways folk horror fans crave--atmosphere, strange traditions, and a lingering sense of unease.
Final Recommendation: If Withered Hill was your jam, Scuttler’s Cove would scratch that same itch. Just be prepared for a slow burn that takes its time unraveling its mysteries.
Comps: Withered Hill, Devil's Day by Andrew Michael Hurley, Residents of Honeysuckle Cottage by Elizabeth Davidson, Hot Fuzz (movie!)
Title/Author: David Barnett
Page Count: 337 pages
Publisher: Canelo Horror (thank you for the early review copy!)
Format Paperback
Other Books I Enjoyed by This Author: Withered Hill (loved it!)
*didn't see this book on Bookshop.org
Release Date: February 13th, 2025
General Genre: Folk Horror
Sub-Genre/Themes: Death of a parent, moving back home, death of a spouse, rural small towns, renting a vacation home, folklore & legend, cults/rituals, occult practices, old ways vs. new ways, *animal death
Writing Style: Multiple POV
What You Need to Know: "A dark and mysterious folk horror of the sea, and a timely exploration of the displacement of our modern moment, with a twist that will leave you reeling."
My Reading Experience: David Barnett has done it again, crafting the perfect folk horror book for the Fall/Winter season. Like Withered Hill, Scuttler’s Cove is steeped in tension and dread, weaving traditional folk horror tropes into a unique, modern story. Eerie, rural small village vibes with hidden secrets are exposed slowly as the story progresses.
Once again, Barnett masterfully plays with the outsider dynamic: newcomers to this insular community stumble into what appears to be an idyllic coastal town, only to realize that something is very, very wrong beneath the surface in one POV with the MC, Jen, suffering from grief.
The other POV, Merrin Moon, has also lost someone but the death of her mother seems almost a relief. Merrin straddles the line between longtime resident and newcomer since she was born and raised in Scuttler's Cove but moved away as soon as she could. Now she's back.
The town’s residents know more than they let on, their secrets lurking in the shadows, waiting to be uncovered—but at what cost?
While the creeping tension is deliciously unsettling, the pacing does drag in certain sections. Some moments feel overly drawn out, making the build-up more frustrating than suspenseful. Still, when Scuttler’s Cove picks up speed, it delivers in all the ways folk horror fans crave--atmosphere, strange traditions, and a lingering sense of unease.
Final Recommendation: If Withered Hill was your jam, Scuttler’s Cove would scratch that same itch. Just be prepared for a slow burn that takes its time unraveling its mysteries.
Comps: Withered Hill, Devil's Day by Andrew Michael Hurley, Residents of Honeysuckle Cottage by Elizabeth Davidson, Hot Fuzz (movie!)
April 23, 2025
What a frustrating book. I was enjoying it for the most part and was invested, and then the end went completely off the rails in multiple ways. Full review to follow.
December 19, 2024
ARC for review. To be published February 13, 2025.
3 stars
This is by the author of the recent folk horror book WITHERED HILL, which I quite liked, so I was looking forward to this.
Merrin Moon returns to her home town of Scuttler’s Cove (why doesn’t anyone ever remark on what a truly hideous name this is, I wonder?) on the coast of Cornwall after the death of her mother. She hasn’t been back since her high school graduation and it seems she has forgotten much about growing up there and the town’s weird traditions (though she and her mother were not estranged.) So, yeah, none of that bodes well. If you see a big wicker effigy, I would suggest running, is all I’m saying.
Sue is a young woman who has just lost her brand new husband to a car accident. The couple and a group of his friends had all just purchased vacation houses in Scuttler’s Cove and they are all there to spend the summer.
But it seems like old haunts have also returned to Scuttler’s Cove. You have to come to this with a big ol’ helping of suspension of disbelief because, you know, OF COURSE toddlers have tattoos, and, yeah, it’s no big deal not to see your mom for 13 YEARS when you go to college a couple of hours away. I do enjoy folk horror like this but there were some problem here, plus there seemed to be a great big plot hole, unless I somehow missed something, which is certainly possible.
I really wanted to like it more. I’ll try another book by the author, but he really needs to tighten things up a bit.
3 stars
This is by the author of the recent folk horror book WITHERED HILL, which I quite liked, so I was looking forward to this.
Merrin Moon returns to her home town of Scuttler’s Cove (why doesn’t anyone ever remark on what a truly hideous name this is, I wonder?) on the coast of Cornwall after the death of her mother. She hasn’t been back since her high school graduation and it seems she has forgotten much about growing up there and the town’s weird traditions (though she and her mother were not estranged.) So, yeah, none of that bodes well. If you see a big wicker effigy, I would suggest running, is all I’m saying.
Sue is a young woman who has just lost her brand new husband to a car accident. The couple and a group of his friends had all just purchased vacation houses in Scuttler’s Cove and they are all there to spend the summer.
But it seems like old haunts have also returned to Scuttler’s Cove. You have to come to this with a big ol’ helping of suspension of disbelief because, you know, OF COURSE toddlers have tattoos, and, yeah, it’s no big deal not to see your mom for 13 YEARS when you go to college a couple of hours away. I do enjoy folk horror like this but there were some problem here, plus there seemed to be a great big plot hole, unless I somehow missed something, which is certainly possible.
I really wanted to like it more. I’ll try another book by the author, but he really needs to tighten things up a bit.
November 11, 2024
"There was something in Scuttler’s Cove you couldn’t quite put your finger on. Even the name sounded a bit… creepy-crawly. Put her in mind of things scuttling. Of course, she knew the reason the town was named that, and it was the same reason , probably, that the townsfolk would never really take a copper to their hearts."
⚠️Triggers⚠️
Animal death, murder
⚠️Possible spoiler⚠️
‘Reconcile Endellion and Avallen,’ said Taran. ‘Thee lord of the land and the lady of the sea. As it should always have been, before man interfered. Restore the balance. End the cycle of sacrifice.’
💭
Endellion's fury is unbound because of men's greed and meddling. Yes to feminine rage!
The cover blurb says "A seaside idyll with horror at its heart." and I'm sold. I knew I had to request it though I didn't have high hopes it will be granted. So suffice to say I was pretty excited when I got approved for this ARC. I have seen mostly good reviews about Withered Hill and although I haven't read that one yet, I surely will after this. This is just right up my alley and it is very well-written and sprinkled with what makes a good folk horror - typical elements including a rural setting, isolation, themes of superstition or supernatural entity, folk religion, rituals, sacrifice and the dark aspects of nature. Moral ambiguity of the genre is also to be expected. I'm still curious as to what happened to one of the key characters and his mysterious disappearance. I was left thirsting for more! Withered Hill and Scratch Moss were mentioned at the end so I'm guessing that Scratch Moss is a possible sequel or could be another book entirely. 🤔🤔🤔 Really enjoyed this one. Dark, compelling and atmospheric. Def recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo publishing 🖤
⚠️Triggers⚠️
Animal death, murder
⚠️Possible spoiler⚠️
‘Reconcile Endellion and Avallen,’ said Taran. ‘Thee lord of the land and the lady of the sea. As it should always have been, before man interfered. Restore the balance. End the cycle of sacrifice.’
💭
Endellion's fury is unbound because of men's greed and meddling. Yes to feminine rage!
The cover blurb says "A seaside idyll with horror at its heart." and I'm sold. I knew I had to request it though I didn't have high hopes it will be granted. So suffice to say I was pretty excited when I got approved for this ARC. I have seen mostly good reviews about Withered Hill and although I haven't read that one yet, I surely will after this. This is just right up my alley and it is very well-written and sprinkled with what makes a good folk horror - typical elements including a rural setting, isolation, themes of superstition or supernatural entity, folk religion, rituals, sacrifice and the dark aspects of nature. Moral ambiguity of the genre is also to be expected. I'm still curious as to what happened to one of the key characters and his mysterious disappearance. I was left thirsting for more! Withered Hill and Scratch Moss were mentioned at the end so I'm guessing that Scratch Moss is a possible sequel or could be another book entirely. 🤔🤔🤔 Really enjoyed this one. Dark, compelling and atmospheric. Def recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo publishing 🖤
August 18, 2025
“The sea is good to us, because we are good to the sea. We honor it. In ways that only we can. In ways that only we remember…”
After decades away from home, Merrin moves back to her small, seaside, Cornish village of Scuttler’s Cove after receiving abrupt news that her mother has passed away. Meanwhile, Jen, a wealthy widow suffering a devastating loss, has become a second-homer in the same village. Unbeknownst to both of them, something has awakened beneath the earth where they dwell, an ancient chain of events is slowly converging their paths, and the villagers might be in on it.
This was a fun one! The seaside setting, the lore, the commentary on gentrification by the wealthy. *chef's kiss* Loved it! David Barnett, I am a fan!
After decades away from home, Merrin moves back to her small, seaside, Cornish village of Scuttler’s Cove after receiving abrupt news that her mother has passed away. Meanwhile, Jen, a wealthy widow suffering a devastating loss, has become a second-homer in the same village. Unbeknownst to both of them, something has awakened beneath the earth where they dwell, an ancient chain of events is slowly converging their paths, and the villagers might be in on it.
This was a fun one! The seaside setting, the lore, the commentary on gentrification by the wealthy. *chef's kiss* Loved it! David Barnett, I am a fan!
August 17, 2025
"She's named for a saint, so some say, but that's not the case. The saint was named for her, because she's older than the saints, older than the people, older than the land, for did not the seas come first when the world was created"
God damn - I didn't really know it was my thing, but apparently I am hopelessly addicted to folk horror tales set in obscure, seaside British towns. Additionally, without any prior knowledge, this is the second one I've read(and loved) that centered around supernatural apples with healing properties...what are the chances lmao?
Scuttler's Cove is set, unsurprisingly, in Scuttler's Cove, an insular fishing village in a remote corner of Corning in the UK. They, like many other seaside towns, have been touched by tourism, and much of their economy and collective livelihoods are centered around the high tourist season. Our main protagonists are Merrin Moon, the proverbial 'daughter of the soil', who was born in Scuttler's Cove, and ventured out to find herself in London, only to come back to the Cove(for better or worse) when tragedy strikes. Additionally, we follow Jen, reeling from a recent personal loss, having recently purchased a second home in Scuttler's Cove, giving us the tourist's perspective, despite her humble upbringings.
I've gotta say, until quasi-recently, I didn't really know what folk horror was, specifically at least. But talk about a great niche to have fallen into. This book is a wonderful example of an atmospheric read...you feel like you know the colorful characters at the small town pub, the tourists are appropriately annoying, the slow burn keeps you asking questions and wanting more as things build up, etc.
The town itself is the center of the novel, and it has strange traditions, oddities, and an ethereal apple tree, that might have a God buried underneath...also, there might be a former human sacrifice wandering around the woods with a creepy fish mask covering his head? The oddities and idiosyncrasies of the setting really set us in the town, and add to the impending sense of 'oh shit, what is happening'. Also, as someone who has grown up in a touristy town in California, it is interesting to hear about/see a perspective on gentrification and tourist culture from halfway around the planet.
As mentioned, I randomly read another book with 'magic apples' and folk horror elements, Black River Orchard by Chuck Wendig. Shameless plug here, but it's the best book I've read in years, I recommend both highly!!
There was a great balance between the two main characters, Merrin and Jen, and other perspectives are thrown in as this book progresses, which keeps the plot moving. Honestly, it did the whole slow burn thing perfectly, and it was a great balance of creepiness, horror, and folklore - if I had a slight criticism, things got a little bit wonky when the drama hits and everything is crescendo-ing at the end, but I feel like that isn't the most uncommon things in this style of novel.
Overall, this was a 5/5 for me, easily. Creepy, dark, isolated, mysterious, it hit pretty much all of the superlatives I like whilst in my little folk-horror era - a wonderful read!
God damn - I didn't really know it was my thing, but apparently I am hopelessly addicted to folk horror tales set in obscure, seaside British towns. Additionally, without any prior knowledge, this is the second one I've read(and loved) that centered around supernatural apples with healing properties...what are the chances lmao?
Scuttler's Cove is set, unsurprisingly, in Scuttler's Cove, an insular fishing village in a remote corner of Corning in the UK. They, like many other seaside towns, have been touched by tourism, and much of their economy and collective livelihoods are centered around the high tourist season. Our main protagonists are Merrin Moon, the proverbial 'daughter of the soil', who was born in Scuttler's Cove, and ventured out to find herself in London, only to come back to the Cove(for better or worse) when tragedy strikes. Additionally, we follow Jen, reeling from a recent personal loss, having recently purchased a second home in Scuttler's Cove, giving us the tourist's perspective, despite her humble upbringings.
I've gotta say, until quasi-recently, I didn't really know what folk horror was, specifically at least. But talk about a great niche to have fallen into. This book is a wonderful example of an atmospheric read...you feel like you know the colorful characters at the small town pub, the tourists are appropriately annoying, the slow burn keeps you asking questions and wanting more as things build up, etc.
The town itself is the center of the novel, and it has strange traditions, oddities, and an ethereal apple tree, that might have a God buried underneath...also, there might be a former human sacrifice wandering around the woods with a creepy fish mask covering his head? The oddities and idiosyncrasies of the setting really set us in the town, and add to the impending sense of 'oh shit, what is happening'. Also, as someone who has grown up in a touristy town in California, it is interesting to hear about/see a perspective on gentrification and tourist culture from halfway around the planet.
As mentioned, I randomly read another book with 'magic apples' and folk horror elements, Black River Orchard by Chuck Wendig. Shameless plug here, but it's the best book I've read in years, I recommend both highly!!
There was a great balance between the two main characters, Merrin and Jen, and other perspectives are thrown in as this book progresses, which keeps the plot moving. Honestly, it did the whole slow burn thing perfectly, and it was a great balance of creepiness, horror, and folklore - if I had a slight criticism, things got a little bit wonky when the drama hits and everything is crescendo-ing at the end, but I feel like that isn't the most uncommon things in this style of novel.
Overall, this was a 5/5 for me, easily. Creepy, dark, isolated, mysterious, it hit pretty much all of the superlatives I like whilst in my little folk-horror era - a wonderful read!
December 31, 2024
Old gods and new monsters are buried at the heart of this inventive folk horror story. Barnett managed to craft a contemporary folk horror tale that still feels rooted to the old ways, even as those old ways are slipping away, or at the least changing. The story is a refreshingly dark tale that explores human greed and avarice, and, similar to most folk horror stories, how the new interceding or encroaching on the old is not always the right way of things.
This story jumps across multiple points of view, which was delightful. For the first two chapters we only followed two characters, alternating between them, and I was happy with that, and yet even happier when a new POV joined the mix in the fifth chapter. While we mostly stay in the present a few storylines take place in the past, in different times in the past, and moving across the various times and POVs was really skillful, dealing out enough information to keep you hooked while building more mystery. The two central characters were exciting and interesting, and for the most part they felt genuine. The ancillary characters were fun enough, though they all, from the townspeople to the Londoners, were a little one-note. This was fine, though, they all served their roles in the story, and they had enough going on that they were never boring, you just didn’t get as robust an interiority on many of them. Still, the whole cast of characters worked well together, and made the story more dynamic. The atmosphere was wonderful, as well as the world-building, capturing the small, tourist-town-that-resents-being-a-tourist-town vibes really well, reminding you the town is a character in this whole affair.
The writing itself was strong and consistent, pulling you into the narrative. It wasn’t colorful or purple, but rather direct prose that had convincing dialogue. The writing tone and style didn’t really change across the various characters, and it would have been nice to see the writing and tone be a little more reflective of the diverse POVs as we moved around, but even absent that it was consistently good. The plotting is the one place I had a little difficulty. Yes, there were some red herrings along with some forecasting, a lot of loose threads to wrap this mystery in. For the most part that was fine, though one particular thread didn’t feel necessary to me, but that’s fine, it seemed like an addendum, almost, a device to inject tension and sow doubt throughout the first two acts, as opposed to feeling like a natural occurrence in the world. More importantly, though, the plot just felt a little bit drawn out. It isn’t a long novel, and I was never bored with it, but the middle section did feel more drawn out than it needed to be. This is in part because it is building numerous layers onto its central mysteries, which I understand and appreciate, but still, it dragged a little. I wasn’t particularly surprised by any of the twists and reveals, but for the most part they felt earned and worked for the story. Even though I anticipated them I enjoyed the way they developed and were revealed.
Colorful characters, strong writing, and a unique and interesting idea that occasionally has too much plot to contend with but still manages to wrestle it all into a pretty tight story… This is a wonderful addition to the contemporary folk horror canon, it was a joy to read, and I look forward to reading more from the author!
I want to thank the author, the publisher Canelo, and Net Galley, who provided a complimentary eARC for review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 22, 2025
4.5 stars
Another fantastic entry in the English folk horror genre by the talented David Barnett, in the same world but separate from Withered Hill.
Instead of the bucolic Northern setting of Lancashire, we move South to Cornwall to the fictional seaside village of Scuttler’s Cove. Wealthy tourists and second homers from London flood the picturesque village with money, but also put pressure on the locals and the traditional life that has made the village so desirable.
Scuttler's Cove explores the same underlying theme of how modern life has unbalanced the essential nature of a place, but this time there are some competing ideas within the village, and even from some outsiders, about how to appease the great forces of land and sea that are becoming increasingly restless.
Barnett has a third entry on the horizon, Scratch Moss, due out in March 2026. I already have it on my TBR for that month!
Another fantastic entry in the English folk horror genre by the talented David Barnett, in the same world but separate from Withered Hill.
Instead of the bucolic Northern setting of Lancashire, we move South to Cornwall to the fictional seaside village of Scuttler’s Cove. Wealthy tourists and second homers from London flood the picturesque village with money, but also put pressure on the locals and the traditional life that has made the village so desirable.
Scuttler's Cove explores the same underlying theme of how modern life has unbalanced the essential nature of a place, but this time there are some competing ideas within the village, and even from some outsiders, about how to appease the great forces of land and sea that are becoming increasingly restless.
Barnett has a third entry on the horizon, Scratch Moss, due out in March 2026. I already have it on my TBR for that month!
November 7, 2024
Scuttler's Cove is an absolutely creepy folk horror novel set in Cornwall. A story of old gods, class wars, and sacrifices, this book has secrets galore and, if you like folk horror as much as me, will definitely be among your favorites in the genre.
A woman moves back to the titular small town after the death of her mother. She's been gone for many years and finds the town is a haven for wealthy summer people, while pricing out locals. There's a tension present, rich vs. poor, and it's palpable throughout the story.
But there are things older than the town, living in the ocean and under the soil. Things which require sacrifice for the town to thrive. Old rituals and bloodshed in exchange for prosperity.
And our protagonist is going to find herself in the middle as a returned "daughter" of the town, even if she's not willing.
Filled with great characters, a downright creepy unsettling narrative, and surprises in store which you won't see coming, this is a must read folk horror novel. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
A woman moves back to the titular small town after the death of her mother. She's been gone for many years and finds the town is a haven for wealthy summer people, while pricing out locals. There's a tension present, rich vs. poor, and it's palpable throughout the story.
But there are things older than the town, living in the ocean and under the soil. Things which require sacrifice for the town to thrive. Old rituals and bloodshed in exchange for prosperity.
And our protagonist is going to find herself in the middle as a returned "daughter" of the town, even if she's not willing.
Filled with great characters, a downright creepy unsettling narrative, and surprises in store which you won't see coming, this is a must read folk horror novel. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
April 22, 2025
Barnett is really knocking it out with his folk horror stories! There’s even a third one in the works (Scratchmoss I believe). Each one is standalone with a few clues that tie in to an overarching agency/conspiracy.
Scuttler’s Cove combined mythological figures and rituals from land and sea, a twisted plot and mixed bag of characters. I really liked Merrin and Jen, the snotty rich folks and creepy locals not so much.
Fantastic cover with an engaging story full of eerie moments, crabs, and spiders.
Scuttler’s Cove combined mythological figures and rituals from land and sea, a twisted plot and mixed bag of characters. I really liked Merrin and Jen, the snotty rich folks and creepy locals not so much.
Fantastic cover with an engaging story full of eerie moments, crabs, and spiders.
March 4, 2025
Well, aside from the catchy title, this fails on so many fronts.
Firstly, it is a horror novel which isn’t scary. Secondly, every character has that glossy TV show quality to them. They speak in ways regular people do not. They have 2D personalities and are so similar that it is hard to detect who to like and dislike.
The whole novel just seems so flat, like an idea almost capitalised upon. The story meanders and moves so slowly that it is hard to maintain momentum. The setting is so flat too, just rain and trees.
The twists are so obvious and not at all engaging. Avoid.
Firstly, it is a horror novel which isn’t scary. Secondly, every character has that glossy TV show quality to them. They speak in ways regular people do not. They have 2D personalities and are so similar that it is hard to detect who to like and dislike.
The whole novel just seems so flat, like an idea almost capitalised upon. The story meanders and moves so slowly that it is hard to maintain momentum. The setting is so flat too, just rain and trees.
The twists are so obvious and not at all engaging. Avoid.
June 23, 2025
3.5 rounded down
this would’ve been better if merrin and jen had kissed
this would’ve been better if merrin and jen had kissed
July 16, 2025
She really under reacted to the townspeople throwing dirt on her and chanting. And during one of her first nights back in her childhood hometown. Really, chanting should have been the first clue.
Loved the vibes of this spooky ‘magic as old as dirt’ tale:
- coastal town (I started this as a vacation beach read!)
- secret magic and rituals
- small towns with dark secrets
- unsettling folk magic
- fishing, coins, boats, apples, painting
- rich people in towns they shouldn’t be in
I wouldn’t say this was horror, more of a mystery, as the history of the town is revealed over the course of the book. I was never scared or overly tense for the characters. It’s much more about the history of the town and less about character development. But I did find it to be a book that I didn’t want to put down. I wanted to know more and more about Scuttler’s Cove.
Loved the vibes of this spooky ‘magic as old as dirt’ tale:
- coastal town (I started this as a vacation beach read!)
- secret magic and rituals
- small towns with dark secrets
- unsettling folk magic
- fishing, coins, boats, apples, painting
- rich people in towns they shouldn’t be in
I wouldn’t say this was horror, more of a mystery, as the history of the town is revealed over the course of the book. I was never scared or overly tense for the characters. It’s much more about the history of the town and less about character development. But I did find it to be a book that I didn’t want to put down. I wanted to know more and more about Scuttler’s Cove.
August 9, 2025
thanks yv i loved this one
February 24, 2025
3.75⭐️
Entertaining folk horror set in Cornwall. I must admit that there were a few draggy bits and the out of towners are (necessarily)OTT 2D stereotypes, but the last 30-40 pages where it went full on Paperbacks from Hell more than made up for those little niggles. Very interesting ending,as well.
Entertaining folk horror set in Cornwall. I must admit that there were a few draggy bits and the out of towners are (necessarily)OTT 2D stereotypes, but the last 30-40 pages where it went full on Paperbacks from Hell more than made up for those little niggles. Very interesting ending,as well.
December 24, 2025
My first David Barnett and probably my last. On a sentence-to-sentence level, this is an almost competently written book that zips along with too-quick efficiency. It’s a brisk, easy, rather silly read – but that’s to its detriment, because I don’t think that’s what it’s meant to be. I think it’s meant to be a chillingly dark horror with an incisive social conscience at its centre. However, Barnett writes his characters and themes like he heard Garth Marenghi say “I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards” and didn’t realise it was a joke.
The social commentary of Scuttler’s Cove is so plain and pat that it’s distracting, almost comical. One of the main characters has a rich Tesla-driving boyfriend who brags about the Cornwall holiday home he’s just bought and grumbles about the nearby social housing in the next breath. A fisherman laments that entitled Londoners are pricing locals out of the property market, then, not two sentences later, a family of Waitrose-shopping poshos screeches up in a Range Rover to complain about how the locals are savages. It’s so artless that it becomes eye-rolling, more suitable for a moralising YA book or a daft satirical cartoon. And that isn’t even as stupid as the book gets. It’s a shame, because the issues in question are real ones that deserve a much better, more grown-up treatment than this book gives them.
It’s funny that the author, in the acknowledgements, notes folk horror’s moral ambiguity as one of the genre’s interesting qualities, having just failed to write any moral ambiguity whatsoever. The book feels symptomatic of the modern genre writer’s mortal fear of subtlety – just crushingly obvious, literal, and skin-deep in its intentions and execution, with nothing left to subtext or symbolism. I couldn’t work out if the book was meant to be firmly tongue-in-cheek or if it was just a bit stupid in earnest. I’m leaning towards the latter, because it lacks polish in many other ways, but I’m still not 100% sure.
The story is intriguing but not at all scary. The language is too bland to evoke much folkish atmosphere. The dialogue ranges from unconvincing to pure garbage. The characterisation in general is quite flat and samey, just about serviceable enough to keep you reading. The text is overly preoccupied with how much or little cosmetic work all the female characters have had, which starts to feel prurient and silly after the first few mentions of their breasts. There’s much to be said about the grim industrial complex of modern beauty, and how beauty standards are governed by capitalism, wealth, and class, but this feels like neither the right story nor the right author to tell it. The result just comes off as fucking odd. (Even odder when, at the eleventh hour, the book tries to turn itself into a girl-power story that doesn’t feel at all earned.)
Overall, I found Scuttler’s Cove below average. It’s fast-paced, visual, generic – it reads like the rushed novelisation of a horror movie, rather than a book truly interested in exploring its own world and characters. There’s nothing really worth hating about it, but neither is it notably good at anything. It does have a page-turning easiness, the premise is interesting, and there’s a hunky fisherman, but I wanted much more from it. I wanted less strawman and more Wicker Man.
The social commentary of Scuttler’s Cove is so plain and pat that it’s distracting, almost comical. One of the main characters has a rich Tesla-driving boyfriend who brags about the Cornwall holiday home he’s just bought and grumbles about the nearby social housing in the next breath. A fisherman laments that entitled Londoners are pricing locals out of the property market, then, not two sentences later, a family of Waitrose-shopping poshos screeches up in a Range Rover to complain about how the locals are savages. It’s so artless that it becomes eye-rolling, more suitable for a moralising YA book or a daft satirical cartoon. And that isn’t even as stupid as the book gets. It’s a shame, because the issues in question are real ones that deserve a much better, more grown-up treatment than this book gives them.
It’s funny that the author, in the acknowledgements, notes folk horror’s moral ambiguity as one of the genre’s interesting qualities, having just failed to write any moral ambiguity whatsoever. The book feels symptomatic of the modern genre writer’s mortal fear of subtlety – just crushingly obvious, literal, and skin-deep in its intentions and execution, with nothing left to subtext or symbolism. I couldn’t work out if the book was meant to be firmly tongue-in-cheek or if it was just a bit stupid in earnest. I’m leaning towards the latter, because it lacks polish in many other ways, but I’m still not 100% sure.
The story is intriguing but not at all scary. The language is too bland to evoke much folkish atmosphere. The dialogue ranges from unconvincing to pure garbage. The characterisation in general is quite flat and samey, just about serviceable enough to keep you reading. The text is overly preoccupied with how much or little cosmetic work all the female characters have had, which starts to feel prurient and silly after the first few mentions of their breasts. There’s much to be said about the grim industrial complex of modern beauty, and how beauty standards are governed by capitalism, wealth, and class, but this feels like neither the right story nor the right author to tell it. The result just comes off as fucking odd. (Even odder when, at the eleventh hour, the book tries to turn itself into a girl-power story that doesn’t feel at all earned.)
Overall, I found Scuttler’s Cove below average. It’s fast-paced, visual, generic – it reads like the rushed novelisation of a horror movie, rather than a book truly interested in exploring its own world and characters. There’s nothing really worth hating about it, but neither is it notably good at anything. It does have a page-turning easiness, the premise is interesting, and there’s a hunky fisherman, but I wanted much more from it. I wanted less strawman and more Wicker Man.
July 26, 2025
TLDR: Folk horror meets coastal gentrification.
Initial reaction: At no point could I predict where this was going and that was very refreshing. I am also honestly shocked this was written by a man with how well it captured mother/woman perpetual expected sacrifice and then chose to not only have the characters verbalize it but then subvert it. A real contrast to the recently released Night Birds.
For fans of folk horror, esp Daniel Church’s The Hollows
Initial reaction: At no point could I predict where this was going and that was very refreshing. I am also honestly shocked this was written by a man with how well it captured mother/woman perpetual expected sacrifice and then chose to not only have the characters verbalize it but then subvert it. A real contrast to the recently released Night Birds.
For fans of folk horror, esp Daniel Church’s The Hollows
September 7, 2025
I did enjoy it, I just wish it were better? That sounds harsh, it’s a good book. Good flow, normal horror formula. I just wanted more… 🫠
February 18, 2025
David Barnett’s “Scuttler’s Cove” is the second folk horror book he’s written the first being Withered Hill. This book intertwines traditional Cornish folklore with contemporary themes of community displacement and gentrification. Set in a picturesque Cornish village of Scuttler’s Cove, the story follows Merrin Moon, who returns to her hometown after her mother’s death, only to uncover unsettling events triggered by the influx of affluent outsiders.
Barnett creates an atmospheric narrative with a sense of slow creeping dread, reminiscent of classic folk horror. There’s some rich character development and compelling narrative. I especially enjoyed the eerie ambiance and unexpected twists. The setting of a smallish Cornish village is not unique but is it very well done. The pacing is solid throughout and plotting is intriguing. David Barnett has definitely created two very different folk horror books and I hope there’s more to come.
Barnett creates an atmospheric narrative with a sense of slow creeping dread, reminiscent of classic folk horror. There’s some rich character development and compelling narrative. I especially enjoyed the eerie ambiance and unexpected twists. The setting of a smallish Cornish village is not unique but is it very well done. The pacing is solid throughout and plotting is intriguing. David Barnett has definitely created two very different folk horror books and I hope there’s more to come.
February 10, 2025
3.75 stars. Not as gripping as Withered Hill but I still devoured it. Despite my complaints just know I still appreciated this story simply for bringing something different to my horror reading. David Barnett has made me realize how much I enjoy folk horror.
The plot just felt more obvious, and it was heavy handed with its messaging at times. I mean, we ventured into Comedically Evil territory at the end there.
**(A little spoiler-y.) And I’m gonna read whatever else gets released in this series, so there’s no need to draw me in with that ending. (Please, just tell me what happened to *redacted*. :| )
The plot just felt more obvious, and it was heavy handed with its messaging at times. I mean, we ventured into Comedically Evil territory at the end there.
**(A little spoiler-y.) And I’m gonna read whatever else gets released in this series, so there’s no need to draw me in with that ending. (Please, just tell me what happened to *redacted*. :| )
February 24, 2025
I bought this because I was suddenly in the need for folk horror. This delivered!
Creepy, compelling, and it managed to be very surprising.
I liked the characters I was supposed to like and loathed those I was supposed to hate. And our village was definitely not someplace I'd like to visit.
And that fish festival? Weird!
I really enjoyed this and will read the author again!
Creepy, compelling, and it managed to be very surprising.
I liked the characters I was supposed to like and loathed those I was supposed to hate. And our village was definitely not someplace I'd like to visit.
And that fish festival? Weird!
I really enjoyed this and will read the author again!
July 18, 2025
Misschien minder eng dan ik had verwacht (of gehoopt) maar wel ijzersterk. Je wil gewoon weten hoe het verhaal verder loopt en wat voor naars er nu gaat gebeuren. Het stadje Scuttler's Cove is echt gaan leven.
dnf
February 27, 2025Recently in a booktube video someone said something to the effect of ‘why finish a book if you can tell it will only be 3 stars?’ I kept thinking that while reading this. It was ok but nothing special so I decided to DNF. Was it you, See Kritz Read? Good advice 🙂
October 18, 2025
Meh. There are two main characters, and that's one too many. The 'girl with a destiny returning home to a small town to fulfill given secret destiny/prophecy / or whatever could have been a decent basis for this story .
The second woman however, is a non-person. Obviously inserted to keep the plot moving . She's a cardboard figure who married a rich guy she hardly knew. And the guy also happened to die after a few weeks ( This is all told, not shown ) She comes from a working class background, and is now a rich young widow who spends her days hanging out with here former husband friends. This is a group of very different individuals who have chosen to share a kind of nomadic luxury life as a group.
The husband forgotten and hardly ever mentioned. Yet she just follows these strangers around 24/7 Why or how she does what she does is not clear.
Anyway, before the husband died, this group decided to go and buy a few houses in Cornwall and live there for a few months.
Both women are supposed to be the sympathetic ones, but are rather bland and interchangeable .
The story gets boring fast . A few hints , some foreshadowing and a lots of nothing until the finale. All rather predictable.
Not for me.'
The second woman however, is a non-person. Obviously inserted to keep the plot moving . She's a cardboard figure who married a rich guy she hardly knew. And the guy also happened to die after a few weeks ( This is all told, not shown ) She comes from a working class background, and is now a rich young widow who spends her days hanging out with here former husband friends. This is a group of very different individuals who have chosen to share a kind of nomadic luxury life as a group.
The husband forgotten and hardly ever mentioned. Yet she just follows these strangers around 24/7 Why or how she does what she does is not clear.
Anyway, before the husband died, this group decided to go and buy a few houses in Cornwall and live there for a few months.
Both women are supposed to be the sympathetic ones, but are rather bland and interchangeable .
The story gets boring fast . A few hints , some foreshadowing and a lots of nothing until the finale. All rather predictable.
Not for me.'
November 25, 2024
I have mixed feelings about this book. I found the story to be very slow and a bit repetitive. I found some parts to be simply filler, with pages and pages of nothing happening except for meeting up at the pub or having cocktails on a patio with a bunch of rich Londoners. I felt hit over the head with the point that many beautiful towns in the UK have been made unaffordable for the locals, due to Londoners buying up property as holiday places and in turn forcing property prices sky-high.
It feels to me, like the most interesting part of the story, old sleeping gods of the land and sea, became secondary to all the antics going on in this little town of Scuttlers Cove between the locals and the rich Londoners.
However, I did really enjoy Merrin's, Jen's, and Tarran's characters and that is what kept me reading.
I received an arc from NetGalley. I'm voluntarily leaving a review
It feels to me, like the most interesting part of the story, old sleeping gods of the land and sea, became secondary to all the antics going on in this little town of Scuttlers Cove between the locals and the rich Londoners.
However, I did really enjoy Merrin's, Jen's, and Tarran's characters and that is what kept me reading.
I received an arc from NetGalley. I'm voluntarily leaving a review
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