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The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl
The dark marsh stretches around Margery. She can hear the sound of her mother’s voice, crying. Or is it the wind…? Will she get out of here alive?
1665: When Margery arrives in Saltmarsh looking for her mother, she finds silence, secrets, and backs turned.
But she is not the only thing that has arrived. As the Plague falls on the village, leaving almost no man, woman or child alive, rumours circulate – about a demon dog, about lights floating above the waters, about voices in the dark… And about a girl, one who has brought a curse.
With Margery’s mother missing, it becomes clear that these remote, desolate marshes are about to become the most dangerous ground she’s ever stepped on…
Now: A beautiful young opera singer named Angel Bailey has arrived in Saltmarsh. She’s there to visit her adoptive brother, but she’s also running away. Because, after years of longing to know where she came from, she’s received word from a woman claiming to be her sister, saying their birth mother’s dying wish is to meet the child she abandoned.
But when Angel becomes fascinated with the story of another mother and daughter, and a centuries old curse on the marsh, the land beneath her feet is about to shift forever…
Authors love Clare
'Marchant’s usual magical blend of strong women, well-researched historical settings and riveting plotlines knocks another stellar novel out the park.’ Bestselling author, Jenni Keer
‘I was completely hooked by this brilliant timeslip novel. Unmissable!’ Bestselling author, Louise Douglas
‘A page turning historical novel that kept me guessing until the very end.’ Bestselling author, Rachel Burton
1665: When Margery arrives in Saltmarsh looking for her mother, she finds silence, secrets, and backs turned.
But she is not the only thing that has arrived. As the Plague falls on the village, leaving almost no man, woman or child alive, rumours circulate – about a demon dog, about lights floating above the waters, about voices in the dark… And about a girl, one who has brought a curse.
With Margery’s mother missing, it becomes clear that these remote, desolate marshes are about to become the most dangerous ground she’s ever stepped on…
Now: A beautiful young opera singer named Angel Bailey has arrived in Saltmarsh. She’s there to visit her adoptive brother, but she’s also running away. Because, after years of longing to know where she came from, she’s received word from a woman claiming to be her sister, saying their birth mother’s dying wish is to meet the child she abandoned.
But when Angel becomes fascinated with the story of another mother and daughter, and a centuries old curse on the marsh, the land beneath her feet is about to shift forever…
Authors love Clare
'Marchant’s usual magical blend of strong women, well-researched historical settings and riveting plotlines knocks another stellar novel out the park.’ Bestselling author, Jenni Keer
‘I was completely hooked by this brilliant timeslip novel. Unmissable!’ Bestselling author, Louise Douglas
‘A page turning historical novel that kept me guessing until the very end.’ Bestselling author, Rachel Burton
- GenresHistorical Fiction
Audible Audio
Published August 7, 2026
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August 20, 2026This was a creepy, gothic dual timeline story which grabbed my attention immediately. Such a good story from Clare. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
August 9, 2026
I was enthralled right from the beginning! What atmosphere! I could feel the cold rush over me as the first scene, around the marshes, unfolded.
Clare Marchant has written a beautifully haunting story, with mystery and folklore woven through the pages that kept me hooked throughout.
In this dual-timeline story, we are at once in both the present day and 1665, in Norfolk, at the edge of the marshes, near the fictional ghost village of Saltmarsh.
In the present day, Angel has arrived at her brother Dan's barn in the back end of nowhere, seeking solace, and she feels something strange around her as she arrives.
Rewind to 1665, and we are taken to Margery's story as she enters the village and the marshes on the lookout for her mother and sister.
The events of Margery's time in the area are documented by cryptic symbols that Angel somehow finds in the old village church, and we join her on a journey of discovery and revelations as she, with the help of others, finally solves certain mysteries.
I love a bit of folklore and learning about local myths, so the addition of the Black Shuck, an integral part of both storylines, was fascinating. The awakening of this creature can have two meanings, one more negative than the other, but I loved that she (yes, we have gendered the Black Shuck!) was there to protect both women as they both traversed difficult times.
I loved this story and didn't want to put it down!
Clare Marchant has written a beautifully haunting story, with mystery and folklore woven through the pages that kept me hooked throughout.
In this dual-timeline story, we are at once in both the present day and 1665, in Norfolk, at the edge of the marshes, near the fictional ghost village of Saltmarsh.
In the present day, Angel has arrived at her brother Dan's barn in the back end of nowhere, seeking solace, and she feels something strange around her as she arrives.
Rewind to 1665, and we are taken to Margery's story as she enters the village and the marshes on the lookout for her mother and sister.
The events of Margery's time in the area are documented by cryptic symbols that Angel somehow finds in the old village church, and we join her on a journey of discovery and revelations as she, with the help of others, finally solves certain mysteries.
I love a bit of folklore and learning about local myths, so the addition of the Black Shuck, an integral part of both storylines, was fascinating. The awakening of this creature can have two meanings, one more negative than the other, but I loved that she (yes, we have gendered the Black Shuck!) was there to protect both women as they both traversed difficult times.
I loved this story and didn't want to put it down!
July 12, 2026
3.5⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC of this novel. Told in dual timelines, we are in a small village affected by plague in 1665 and in present day. Margery is looking for her mum in the marshes when she comes across an eerie sighting of red eyes in the mist. Back in present day, Angel is staying with her adopted brother where she spots the same thing. A tale of discovery, murder and superstition set against the atmospheric marshland of Saltmarsh.
July 23, 2026
I’m a huge fan of Clare’s writing and this is another wonderful dual timeline mystery full of heart. Both Angel’s and Margery’s stories are of family, of searching for answers and of hope.
The setting for both these women’s stories sounded perfect for this mysterious curse. The isolation of the marshes, the impact of the weather with the wind and the fog swirling and the history of the land and people forever present. Clare writes such vivid descriptions of her place and people, you can’t help but be drawn into their lives. The folklore and legends passed down are so compelling, and the marks left in time such a strong reminder of these courageous women who went before.
August 18, 2026
Told in dual timeline via Margery and Angel...it's stories like these that make my imagination run wild on misty moorland adventures!
Murder, mystery and folklore...the setting was creepy and enthralling as we try to find out the whereabouts of Margery's mother and the truth behind the legend of the Black Shuck.
Murder, mystery and folklore...the setting was creepy and enthralling as we try to find out the whereabouts of Margery's mother and the truth behind the legend of the Black Shuck.
August 9, 2026
The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl by Clare Marchant is a solid blend of historical fiction and family drama with a hint of the paranormal.
In 1665 Margery arrives in Saltmarsh in search of her mother , but the only trace is a handkerchief tangled in some reeds. In the modern day we meet Angel, a young singer who has just been contacted by a woman claiming to be her sister . Two timelines and two stories involving mothers and daughters, I liked the way the theme was explored across the timelines and the paranormal aspect which was also woven through both timelines was deftly handled and not allowed to overpower the main storyline. Folklore and historical fact are blended very effectively and as I have come to know from the author's previous works, a great deal of research has gone into the book.
I read an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
In 1665 Margery arrives in Saltmarsh in search of her mother , but the only trace is a handkerchief tangled in some reeds. In the modern day we meet Angel, a young singer who has just been contacted by a woman claiming to be her sister . Two timelines and two stories involving mothers and daughters, I liked the way the theme was explored across the timelines and the paranormal aspect which was also woven through both timelines was deftly handled and not allowed to overpower the main storyline. Folklore and historical fact are blended very effectively and as I have come to know from the author's previous works, a great deal of research has gone into the book.
I read an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my second Clare Marchant book, following The Alchemist’s Secret which I read earlier this year. It’s also my favourite of the two – although I enjoyed both books, I found this one darker, more atmospheric and more gripping. Although I’m often critical of dual timeline novels (which this is), I thought that format worked quite well here as the modern day character has a well developed storyline of her own rather than just providing a frame for the historical thread.
The first chapter sets the tone for the rest of the book as Angel drives through a heavy sea fog on her way to stay with her brother on the North Norfolk coast. Convinced first that an animal of some kind is running along beside her car and then that the vague, murky figure of a human is actually inside the car with her, Angel begins to question why Dan has chosen to live in such an isolated, unsettling place. His home is a converted barn on the outskirts of Saltmarsh, a ruined village abandoned during an outbreak of plague in the 17th century and although Angel had wanted a quiet place to escape from her personal problems for a while, this isn’t quite what she’d expected.
In 1665, however, Saltmarsh is still a busy, thriving village. Margery has just arrived there in search of her mother who left their home in nearby Kelveton five weeks earlier to visit her other daughter who lives in Saltmarsh. She never returned, so Margery has decided to walk to the village herself to look for her – but she’s not prepared for what awaits her there. Her sister is dead and no one can tell her what has happened to her mother; in fact, the villagers are so hostile, Margery is sure they know more than they’re admitting. Lodging with Bridget and Anne, two healers who live just outside Saltmarsh, Margery is determined to get to the bottom of her mother’s disappearance, but when bubonic plague reaches the village, Margery is blamed for bringing the disease with her in the form of the mythical black dog, Black Shuck.
Black Shuck – who, depending on the legend, can be either a malicious demon or a protective creature – appears in both the historical and present day threads of the novel. Other pieces of Norfolk folklore are also woven in, such as the legend of the Lantern Men, marsh spirits associated with ghostly lights and the sound of whistling. I found the book genuinely creepy in places and although there are rational explanations for some of the things that happen, others aren’t fully explained, leaving a sense of the supernatural. There are also lots of vivid, evocative descriptions of the Norfolk coastal landscape with its treacherous marshes, all adding to the atmosphere.
Although Margery’s story was more exciting, it was interesting to see Angel uncovering the secrets of Saltmarsh. I liked the idea of symbols carved into the altar of the ruined church describing what happened in the village and Angel trying to interpret them – at first I thought it seemed a bit too convenient that anyone would do that, but then I remembered that of course there are real cases of what’s known as ‘historical graffiti’ recording important events. There are several other things tying the two narratives together as well. First, there’s a mother/daughter theme in each one. Angel, who was abandoned as a baby and adopted by two loving parents, has been contacted by a woman claiming to be her sister; Angel now has to decide whether to meet her (and potentially get to know her biological mother) but is struggling with the decision. Meanwhile, Margery, who has lost her own mother, finds that her new friends, Bridget and Anne, have become as close to her as family. There’s also a hint of romance for both Angel and Margery, but I liked the way it was only briefly touched upon in both cases, rather than becoming a big part of the plot.
I’ll look forward to Clare Marchant’s next book and will try to investigate some of her earlier ones as well.
The first chapter sets the tone for the rest of the book as Angel drives through a heavy sea fog on her way to stay with her brother on the North Norfolk coast. Convinced first that an animal of some kind is running along beside her car and then that the vague, murky figure of a human is actually inside the car with her, Angel begins to question why Dan has chosen to live in such an isolated, unsettling place. His home is a converted barn on the outskirts of Saltmarsh, a ruined village abandoned during an outbreak of plague in the 17th century and although Angel had wanted a quiet place to escape from her personal problems for a while, this isn’t quite what she’d expected.
In 1665, however, Saltmarsh is still a busy, thriving village. Margery has just arrived there in search of her mother who left their home in nearby Kelveton five weeks earlier to visit her other daughter who lives in Saltmarsh. She never returned, so Margery has decided to walk to the village herself to look for her – but she’s not prepared for what awaits her there. Her sister is dead and no one can tell her what has happened to her mother; in fact, the villagers are so hostile, Margery is sure they know more than they’re admitting. Lodging with Bridget and Anne, two healers who live just outside Saltmarsh, Margery is determined to get to the bottom of her mother’s disappearance, but when bubonic plague reaches the village, Margery is blamed for bringing the disease with her in the form of the mythical black dog, Black Shuck.
Black Shuck – who, depending on the legend, can be either a malicious demon or a protective creature – appears in both the historical and present day threads of the novel. Other pieces of Norfolk folklore are also woven in, such as the legend of the Lantern Men, marsh spirits associated with ghostly lights and the sound of whistling. I found the book genuinely creepy in places and although there are rational explanations for some of the things that happen, others aren’t fully explained, leaving a sense of the supernatural. There are also lots of vivid, evocative descriptions of the Norfolk coastal landscape with its treacherous marshes, all adding to the atmosphere.
Although Margery’s story was more exciting, it was interesting to see Angel uncovering the secrets of Saltmarsh. I liked the idea of symbols carved into the altar of the ruined church describing what happened in the village and Angel trying to interpret them – at first I thought it seemed a bit too convenient that anyone would do that, but then I remembered that of course there are real cases of what’s known as ‘historical graffiti’ recording important events. There are several other things tying the two narratives together as well. First, there’s a mother/daughter theme in each one. Angel, who was abandoned as a baby and adopted by two loving parents, has been contacted by a woman claiming to be her sister; Angel now has to decide whether to meet her (and potentially get to know her biological mother) but is struggling with the decision. Meanwhile, Margery, who has lost her own mother, finds that her new friends, Bridget and Anne, have become as close to her as family. There’s also a hint of romance for both Angel and Margery, but I liked the way it was only briefly touched upon in both cases, rather than becoming a big part of the plot.
I’ll look forward to Clare Marchant’s next book and will try to investigate some of her earlier ones as well.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Clare Marchant has woven enchantment into her latest captivating return to a time long ago, in The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl, in which a time slip or parallel timeline between 2026 and 1665, becomes woven into a link that demands a wrong is once and for all made right.
Angel Bailey, very much a modern young woman and noted singer is struggling with her life. She has fled to the safety of her brother Dan’s home, a remote barn conversion on the Norfolk Coast only to discover that he has been called away on an assignment. Her journey up has been eventful, frightening and incredibly stressful.
Margery is seeking her mother who left their home in the town of Kelveton several weeks prior, to visit her married daughter in Saltmarsh village and has not yet returned home. Margery is tired, well aware of the treacherous marsh she must cross to get to Saltmarsh, the night is falling and something very strange is going on. She can hear voices, sees fires on the beach and seeks to find help at the cottage of Bridget, a local healer. She is told to come inside and forget what she has just seen and heard.
Clare Marchant has deftly woven the lives of these two young women seamlessly together as they seek their mother; one who feels sure her mother has been murdered by her brutish son in law, the other adopted at three months old, has been contacted by a woman claiming to be her natural sister; their birth mother now in a Hospice with a deep need to connect to her second daughter before she passes away.
Both face deeply personal challenges which must be resolved before they can find peace and acceptance in their lives. As Margery persists in demanding answers about the disappearance of her mother, she realises that she needs to leave a record of what has been occurring in Saltmarsh village for someone in the future to discover.
Angel appears to be the person chosen to discover the flint markings at the bottom of the old church ruins, which lead her into a world of spectres, otherworldly creatures and superstition attached to what was once the village of Saltmarsh, eventually abandoned as a plague village, sealed off in 1665, its secrets hidden until 2026.
Captivating, gripping and haunting, The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is utterly absorbing until the last page which leaves you slightly bereft to have left such a fascinating story.
.
Angel Bailey, very much a modern young woman and noted singer is struggling with her life. She has fled to the safety of her brother Dan’s home, a remote barn conversion on the Norfolk Coast only to discover that he has been called away on an assignment. Her journey up has been eventful, frightening and incredibly stressful.
Margery is seeking her mother who left their home in the town of Kelveton several weeks prior, to visit her married daughter in Saltmarsh village and has not yet returned home. Margery is tired, well aware of the treacherous marsh she must cross to get to Saltmarsh, the night is falling and something very strange is going on. She can hear voices, sees fires on the beach and seeks to find help at the cottage of Bridget, a local healer. She is told to come inside and forget what she has just seen and heard.
Clare Marchant has deftly woven the lives of these two young women seamlessly together as they seek their mother; one who feels sure her mother has been murdered by her brutish son in law, the other adopted at three months old, has been contacted by a woman claiming to be her natural sister; their birth mother now in a Hospice with a deep need to connect to her second daughter before she passes away.
Both face deeply personal challenges which must be resolved before they can find peace and acceptance in their lives. As Margery persists in demanding answers about the disappearance of her mother, she realises that she needs to leave a record of what has been occurring in Saltmarsh village for someone in the future to discover.
Angel appears to be the person chosen to discover the flint markings at the bottom of the old church ruins, which lead her into a world of spectres, otherworldly creatures and superstition attached to what was once the village of Saltmarsh, eventually abandoned as a plague village, sealed off in 1665, its secrets hidden until 2026.
Captivating, gripping and haunting, The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is utterly absorbing until the last page which leaves you slightly bereft to have left such a fascinating story.
.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Two different time periods, two different women, the same spooky place. The story follows Margery, a young woman in 1665 searching for her missing mother, and Angel, a woman in the present day grappling with the mystery of her birth family. Margery’s mother headed to the village of Saltmarsh to visit her eldest daughter and never returned. Angel heads to Saltmarsh to stay with her brother after learning she might have finally found her biological family. While Margery searches the village, a mysterious illness sweeps through the town, killing everyone it touches. Angel has some big decisions to make quickly as the woman who may be her biological mother is dying.
I enjoy historical fiction in general. I especially enjoyed Margery’s storyline. The villagers of Saltmarsh are either hostile or dismissive of her search. People are getting sick and dying, and they blame Margery for bringing the illness to their village. A demon dog, ghosts floating around in the marsh, what isn’t to love?
For me, Angel’s storyline didn’t work. Angel dealing with finding her birth family, learning why she was abandoned, and navigating the emotions that came with it was interesting. However, her attempts to solve the mystery of Saltmarsh were less exciting. She discovers mysterious markings in the church and tries to figure out what they mean. The problem was that I already knew who wrote them and what they meant because I was also following Margery’s story. So, Angel’s mystery didn’t really do anything for me. There was creepy stuff happening in the marsh, sure, but I was not invested in her uncovering the mystery.
Now, a moment about the setting, which is where I think the novel really shines. I love love love the setting of Saltmarsh. It is isolated, filled with creepy fog, surrounded by ghostly ruins of a village abandoned during the Black Plague, and threatened by the ever-present possibility of flooding. Yes, yes, and yes. This setting checked every box for me. I think as far as setting goes, Marchant hit a home run with this one.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoy historical fiction in general. I especially enjoyed Margery’s storyline. The villagers of Saltmarsh are either hostile or dismissive of her search. People are getting sick and dying, and they blame Margery for bringing the illness to their village. A demon dog, ghosts floating around in the marsh, what isn’t to love?
For me, Angel’s storyline didn’t work. Angel dealing with finding her birth family, learning why she was abandoned, and navigating the emotions that came with it was interesting. However, her attempts to solve the mystery of Saltmarsh were less exciting. She discovers mysterious markings in the church and tries to figure out what they mean. The problem was that I already knew who wrote them and what they meant because I was also following Margery’s story. So, Angel’s mystery didn’t really do anything for me. There was creepy stuff happening in the marsh, sure, but I was not invested in her uncovering the mystery.
Now, a moment about the setting, which is where I think the novel really shines. I love love love the setting of Saltmarsh. It is isolated, filled with creepy fog, surrounded by ghostly ruins of a village abandoned during the Black Plague, and threatened by the ever-present possibility of flooding. Yes, yes, and yes. This setting checked every box for me. I think as far as setting goes, Marchant hit a home run with this one.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 7, 2026
The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is a supernatural mystery taking place on the Norfolk coast.
Angel Bailey goes to her brother’s converted barn on the Norfolk coast for some rest and relaxation. Angel is adopted and has been contacted by Kayla who claims to be her sister. Kayla says that their mother Grace is dying and wants to reconnect. Angel is wary, she has always known that she is adopted and had a wonderful childhood. She is unsure if she wants to open that can of worms. Her brother Dan has to leave on a work assignment, leaving Angel alone to housesit. Dan’s barn overlooks an abandonded plague village, and Angel starts to experience strange and frightening situations. She hears strange noises in the marsh and sees flickering lights. When she visits the church in the abandoned village, she sees strange etchings on the altar and sees paw prints in the dust next to her own, though no animal is to be seen. Something or someone seems to be reaching out to her over time to help right a wrong.
1665- Margery has traveled to Saltmarsh in search of her mother. Her sister Nell married a man from the village of Saltmarsh and her mother went to check on Nell and never came back. Margery comes acorss the cottage of Bridget and her adopted daughter Anne, like Margery and her mother, they are healers. When Margery explains that she is there to visit her sister and find her mother, Bridget is happy to help. When Margery visits the village, the villagers shun her, and her brother-in-law Frank tells her that her sister has died, and her mother has disappeared. Margery feels there is something malevolent happening in Saltmarsh. Then the villagers begin to die of the plague. As Margery investigates what happened to her mother, she comes across smuggling, murder and supernatural forces. Will Margery be able to find out the fate of her mother before the plagie descimates the entire village?
I enjoyed the supernatural part of this book. Angel’s portion had a growing sense of dread with all the supernatural happenings, and Margery’s section showed the love a daughter has for a mother and the lengths she will go to get to the truth.
Angel Bailey goes to her brother’s converted barn on the Norfolk coast for some rest and relaxation. Angel is adopted and has been contacted by Kayla who claims to be her sister. Kayla says that their mother Grace is dying and wants to reconnect. Angel is wary, she has always known that she is adopted and had a wonderful childhood. She is unsure if she wants to open that can of worms. Her brother Dan has to leave on a work assignment, leaving Angel alone to housesit. Dan’s barn overlooks an abandonded plague village, and Angel starts to experience strange and frightening situations. She hears strange noises in the marsh and sees flickering lights. When she visits the church in the abandoned village, she sees strange etchings on the altar and sees paw prints in the dust next to her own, though no animal is to be seen. Something or someone seems to be reaching out to her over time to help right a wrong.
1665- Margery has traveled to Saltmarsh in search of her mother. Her sister Nell married a man from the village of Saltmarsh and her mother went to check on Nell and never came back. Margery comes acorss the cottage of Bridget and her adopted daughter Anne, like Margery and her mother, they are healers. When Margery explains that she is there to visit her sister and find her mother, Bridget is happy to help. When Margery visits the village, the villagers shun her, and her brother-in-law Frank tells her that her sister has died, and her mother has disappeared. Margery feels there is something malevolent happening in Saltmarsh. Then the villagers begin to die of the plague. As Margery investigates what happened to her mother, she comes across smuggling, murder and supernatural forces. Will Margery be able to find out the fate of her mother before the plagie descimates the entire village?
I enjoyed the supernatural part of this book. Angel’s portion had a growing sense of dread with all the supernatural happenings, and Margery’s section showed the love a daughter has for a mother and the lengths she will go to get to the truth.
August 8, 2026
1665. Margery has walked to Saltmarsh in search of her mother, who left home five weeks ago to visit Nell, Margery’s sister, in Saltmarsh but who hasn’t come home yet. Seeing a glow on the horizon that could be a shipwreck, Margery goes back to a nearby cottage to try and raise the alarm, only to be told by Bridget and Anne that it isn’t a shipwreck and to stay away from the village until the next day. In the village the next day Frank, Nell’s husband, tells her that Nell is dead and that her mother isn’t there so she should go home. None of the women in the village will talk to her so she decides that she won’t go home until she finds out what happened to her mother. The plague hits the village, and Margery is blamed for bringing it with her as Black Shuck has been seen.
2026. Angel is driving to stay with her brother Dan, who lives in a converted barn near the abandoned plague village of Saltmarsh. A mist arises as she nears the village and a figure looms out of the mist right in her path. Braking and skidding Angel is convinced she’s hit someone but can’t find the body. Angel has come to visit Dan as she needs time and space to think about a pressing problem. Both Angel and Dan were adopted, and Angel has suffered from a fear of rejection all her life, if her own mother didn’t love her then who would? But now there is a possibility that she could meet her birth mother – but does she want to? Dan is unexpectedly sent abroad on business, so Angel decides to explore the area and in the abandoned church she finds some strange carvings on the altar which appear to tell a story.
A spooky opening, even spookier happenings, lots of folklore and superstitions make this a superb read about two women, in their own ways, searching for their mother.
Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
2026. Angel is driving to stay with her brother Dan, who lives in a converted barn near the abandoned plague village of Saltmarsh. A mist arises as she nears the village and a figure looms out of the mist right in her path. Braking and skidding Angel is convinced she’s hit someone but can’t find the body. Angel has come to visit Dan as she needs time and space to think about a pressing problem. Both Angel and Dan were adopted, and Angel has suffered from a fear of rejection all her life, if her own mother didn’t love her then who would? But now there is a possibility that she could meet her birth mother – but does she want to? Dan is unexpectedly sent abroad on business, so Angel decides to explore the area and in the abandoned church she finds some strange carvings on the altar which appear to tell a story.
A spooky opening, even spookier happenings, lots of folklore and superstitions make this a superb read about two women, in their own ways, searching for their mother.
Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is a beautifully eerie, atmospheric dual‑timeline novel that pulls you straight into the haunting stillness of the marsh. The story has that wonderful blend of folklore, history and quiet dread that makes you lean in a little closer with every chapter.
The 1665 timeline is especially striking. Margery’s arrival in Saltmarsh, desperate to find her mother, sets the tone for a story steeped in fear, superstition and isolation. The plague‑stricken village, the whispered rumours of demon dogs and strange lights, and the sense that the marsh itself is watching create an unsettling, immersive backdrop. Margery’s loneliness and determination give her chapters a raw emotional pull, and the desolate landscape becomes a character in its own right.
The modern storyline offers a lovely contrast. Angel Bailey’s arrival in Saltmarsh brings a different kind of mystery — one rooted in identity, family and the longing to understand where she came from. Her fascination with the centuries‑old curse and the echoes of another mother‑daughter story adds a compelling thread, and the way the past begins to bleed into her present is handled with a subtle, satisfying tension.
What stands out most is the atmosphere. The marsh is vivid, eerie and unforgettable, and the novel captures that sense of land holding secrets long after people are gone. The two timelines complement each other beautifully, each revealing pieces of a story shaped by fear, love and the weight of history.
Moody, immersive and quietly spellbinding, The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is perfect for readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a touch of the uncanny and a strong emotional core.
with thanks to Clare Marchant, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The 1665 timeline is especially striking. Margery’s arrival in Saltmarsh, desperate to find her mother, sets the tone for a story steeped in fear, superstition and isolation. The plague‑stricken village, the whispered rumours of demon dogs and strange lights, and the sense that the marsh itself is watching create an unsettling, immersive backdrop. Margery’s loneliness and determination give her chapters a raw emotional pull, and the desolate landscape becomes a character in its own right.
The modern storyline offers a lovely contrast. Angel Bailey’s arrival in Saltmarsh brings a different kind of mystery — one rooted in identity, family and the longing to understand where she came from. Her fascination with the centuries‑old curse and the echoes of another mother‑daughter story adds a compelling thread, and the way the past begins to bleed into her present is handled with a subtle, satisfying tension.
What stands out most is the atmosphere. The marsh is vivid, eerie and unforgettable, and the novel captures that sense of land holding secrets long after people are gone. The two timelines complement each other beautifully, each revealing pieces of a story shaped by fear, love and the weight of history.
Moody, immersive and quietly spellbinding, The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is perfect for readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a touch of the uncanny and a strong emotional core.
with thanks to Clare Marchant, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
August 27, 2026
In 1665, Margery is searching for her mother in the isolated village of Saltmarsh however, she finds the local people distrustful and suspicious and it is only the kindness of strangers that keeps her from harm. Far into the future, in the present day, Angel Bailey arrives in Saltmarsh to housesit whilst her brother is away and it is in the very fabric of a converted medieval barn where Margery and Angel’s stories start to mingle and the secrets of a troubled past are finally revealed.
Brooding and atmospheric the story combines tragedy with a poignant reminder of the powerful impact that mothers have on their children. Margery, in 1665, not only confronts prejudice but also has to fight the prospect of disease as the deadly bubonic plague brings devastation to the village. Cleverly intertwining the past and present I felt immersed in the landscape, which is very much part of the story, and in combining myths and legends, especially the mystery of the Black Shuck, the author allows a glimpse into a forgotten world. Angel’s story in the present day is very much her quest to discover more about the history of the landscape and as she starts to get to know more about Saltmarsh village so the threads that bind the two women start to come together.
The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is an immersive story which brings the cold and eerie creepiness of the Saltmarsh to life and I turned the pages eagerly to discover more, hoping that all the loose ends would be drawn together and that the sins of the past could be resolved.
Brooding and atmospheric the story combines tragedy with a poignant reminder of the powerful impact that mothers have on their children. Margery, in 1665, not only confronts prejudice but also has to fight the prospect of disease as the deadly bubonic plague brings devastation to the village. Cleverly intertwining the past and present I felt immersed in the landscape, which is very much part of the story, and in combining myths and legends, especially the mystery of the Black Shuck, the author allows a glimpse into a forgotten world. Angel’s story in the present day is very much her quest to discover more about the history of the landscape and as she starts to get to know more about Saltmarsh village so the threads that bind the two women start to come together.
The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is an immersive story which brings the cold and eerie creepiness of the Saltmarsh to life and I turned the pages eagerly to discover more, hoping that all the loose ends would be drawn together and that the sins of the past could be resolved.
August 10, 2026
I read an eARC of this book on NetGalley so thank you to the author and the publisher.
This is a dual timeline novel tied to the same location, we follow two women, four centuries apart. The story takes place in the same location and we see echoes of local folklore and superstition in both.
The location was a big draw for me, I’ve heard Norfolk is a great setting for horror and supernatural stories and what I’ve read so far has supported that, as does this book. There’s an eeriness to the landscape and the author uses this well in some of the spookier moments in the book. The other big draw is the folklore. I really liked how this was used, the black shuck for one, but some of the other elements, I don’t want to say too much as I’m keen to avoid spoilers! But this was used to great, creepy effect!
I found the modern storyline a bit more interesting that the historical one, tho it u I did like how they intersected. I did find the modern main character could be a bit self involved at times. She’s staying at her brother’s converted barn while he’s away for work and she doesn’t think twice about letting people in, even where it could result in property damage. I appreciated the drive for the story, but there were a few times she was making it hard to root for her.
An entertaining historical story with great location and folklore elements.
This is a dual timeline novel tied to the same location, we follow two women, four centuries apart. The story takes place in the same location and we see echoes of local folklore and superstition in both.
The location was a big draw for me, I’ve heard Norfolk is a great setting for horror and supernatural stories and what I’ve read so far has supported that, as does this book. There’s an eeriness to the landscape and the author uses this well in some of the spookier moments in the book. The other big draw is the folklore. I really liked how this was used, the black shuck for one, but some of the other elements, I don’t want to say too much as I’m keen to avoid spoilers! But this was used to great, creepy effect!
I found the modern storyline a bit more interesting that the historical one, tho it u I did like how they intersected. I did find the modern main character could be a bit self involved at times. She’s staying at her brother’s converted barn while he’s away for work and she doesn’t think twice about letting people in, even where it could result in property damage. I appreciated the drive for the story, but there were a few times she was making it hard to root for her.
An entertaining historical story with great location and folklore elements.
July 15, 2026
Clare is back with another historical mystery with mystical elements. From the first page she really brings to life the Saltmarsh and plague village. You felt like you were in the fog with them and I enjoyed the world building complete with Lantern Men, ancient symbols and coffin paths. The story plays out over a dual timeline. In the modern day storyline Angel has come to stay with her brother and has a creepy experience in the marshes. We learn that she was abandoned as a baby, left in a plastic carrier bag on steps of St Michael and All Angels church. She has been contacted by Kayla, whose mother is dying and has confessed to abandoned her baby.
The historical timeline is set in 1665, Margery is searching for her sister and mother. She befriends Bridget and Annette who are both healers but is met with silence and made to feel unwelcome by the rest of the community. A plague arrives and wipes out most of the village and the remaining villagers blame Margery for it. I enjoyed all the folklore and the healing elements of the historical timeline. I did find myself more drawn to the modern day timeline and all the things happening with that. The stories did come together nicely in the end. For fans of atmospheric, historical reads based on folklore.
The historical timeline is set in 1665, Margery is searching for her sister and mother. She befriends Bridget and Annette who are both healers but is met with silence and made to feel unwelcome by the rest of the community. A plague arrives and wipes out most of the village and the remaining villagers blame Margery for it. I enjoyed all the folklore and the healing elements of the historical timeline. I did find myself more drawn to the modern day timeline and all the things happening with that. The stories did come together nicely in the end. For fans of atmospheric, historical reads based on folklore.
August 2, 2026
Another absolutely brilliant read from Clare Marchant. This dual timeline story had me totally hooked from the beginning and I really struggled to put it down.
In 1665 Margery arrives in Saltmarsh looking for her mother and sister. She doesn’t receive a warm welcome with locals turning their backs on her and refusing to answer her questions. It soon becomes apparent that she is not the only thing to have arrived as the Plague starts to take hold in the village. Margery though is determined to find answers and refuses to leave until she has them.
In 2026 Angel Bailey has come to Saltmarsh to visit her adoptive brother. She needs some time out and to come to terms with the fact that her birth family have reached out to her. However after exploring the now abandoned village she soon becomes fascinated in what happened there and starts to delve deeper into the history of Saltmarsh.
Along with strong female characters this is full of intrigue, secrets, superstitions and so much more. With the eerie atmosphere of the marshes this is a riveting read. The historical detail, the descriptions of the village, the marshes and the characters make it very easy to visualise. I can’t recommend Clare’s books enough!
In 1665 Margery arrives in Saltmarsh looking for her mother and sister. She doesn’t receive a warm welcome with locals turning their backs on her and refusing to answer her questions. It soon becomes apparent that she is not the only thing to have arrived as the Plague starts to take hold in the village. Margery though is determined to find answers and refuses to leave until she has them.
In 2026 Angel Bailey has come to Saltmarsh to visit her adoptive brother. She needs some time out and to come to terms with the fact that her birth family have reached out to her. However after exploring the now abandoned village she soon becomes fascinated in what happened there and starts to delve deeper into the history of Saltmarsh.
Along with strong female characters this is full of intrigue, secrets, superstitions and so much more. With the eerie atmosphere of the marshes this is a riveting read. The historical detail, the descriptions of the village, the marshes and the characters make it very easy to visualise. I can’t recommend Clare’s books enough!
August 22, 2026
The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl is a fantastic dual time-line story, alternating between Angel in the present day and Margery in the seventeenth century.
Set in the village of Saltmarsh, Norfolk, it's a very atmospheric tale - the setting is beautifully done and you really can feel the eeriness of the saltwater marshes. Very clever use of local folklore, too (the Lantern Men and Black Shuck).
Angel in the present day has been contacted by someone who claims to be her sister - can she find the truth about why her birth mother abandoned her? Margery in the seventeenth century is looking for her mother, who has gone missing and nobody will answer any of her questions. The communities are very different - the modern-day one is much more welcoming, whereas the historical one is superstitious, suspicious of strangers and looking to blame someone for the plague. However, there are lots of parallels between the two stories, and the paranormal aspects are handled very well.
If you're looking for an atmospheric read with a bit of depth - why do people believe what they do? - this will be right up your street. Highly recommended.
Set in the village of Saltmarsh, Norfolk, it's a very atmospheric tale - the setting is beautifully done and you really can feel the eeriness of the saltwater marshes. Very clever use of local folklore, too (the Lantern Men and Black Shuck).
Angel in the present day has been contacted by someone who claims to be her sister - can she find the truth about why her birth mother abandoned her? Margery in the seventeenth century is looking for her mother, who has gone missing and nobody will answer any of her questions. The communities are very different - the modern-day one is much more welcoming, whereas the historical one is superstitious, suspicious of strangers and looking to blame someone for the plague. However, there are lots of parallels between the two stories, and the paranormal aspects are handled very well.
If you're looking for an atmospheric read with a bit of depth - why do people believe what they do? - this will be right up your street. Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a compelling and unusual dual time novel, exploring a period of the past I haven’t looked into much before: the plague years. We see how difficult and traumatic that must have been, and the superstition that surrounded it. It succeeds in creating a sense of menace and unease throughout, with a desire to know the outcomes. The two main characters in both eras are believable, their connection not as one might expect. I’ve never been to the area in which it’s set, but Marchant succeeds in painting it in such a way that you feel as if you’re there, that you become familiar with these strange marshlands. She has a talent for describing places and people that bring them to life. A number of concepts are laid out for the reader to consider: the essence of motherhood, the place of women throughout history and our natural connection with nature and each other, symbolism, mystery, an appreciation and acceptance of the self, and what being a strong woman who resides in her own power might look like. For me this is perhaps Marchant’s strongest book yet.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl" by Clare Marchant is a captivating 4-star historical fiction read! The story is told through dual timelines, following Angel in the present day and Margery in 1665. While housesitting for her brother as he travels for work, Angel discovers a series of intriguing symbols. She and her new old friend Daisy work together to uncover the truth behind the mystery.
In 1665, Margery arrives in Saltmarsh in search of her mother as an epidemic sweeps through the small town.
Clare Marchant has a real talent for crafting engaging dual-timeline stories, and I've enjoyed everything I've read by her so far. This one was a little slower to get started, but once the story found its footing, I was completely hooked and couldn't wait to see how everything came together. If you're a fan of historical fiction where the present unravels mysteries from the past, Clare Marchant's books deserve a spot on your TBR!
Thanks to Boldwood Books, Clare Marchant, and NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this ARC and share my honest review.
In 1665, Margery arrives in Saltmarsh in search of her mother as an epidemic sweeps through the small town.
Clare Marchant has a real talent for crafting engaging dual-timeline stories, and I've enjoyed everything I've read by her so far. This one was a little slower to get started, but once the story found its footing, I was completely hooked and couldn't wait to see how everything came together. If you're a fan of historical fiction where the present unravels mysteries from the past, Clare Marchant's books deserve a spot on your TBR!
Thanks to Boldwood Books, Clare Marchant, and NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this ARC and share my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a dual timeline story, set in the present day and 1665, in the small village of Saltmarsh. In the earlier time, Margery is looking for her mother, who came to Saltmarsh to see Margery’s sister, Nell. This is a very atmospheric story set in the marshlands, with strange happenings and unexplained lights and movements through the area. Nell’s husband Frank, isn’t very communicative, except with his fists. Margery is determined to find out what has happened to her mother. In the present day, Angel is in Norfolk to relax but she gets caught up in the mystery of the village of Saltmarsh, what exactly happened during the 17th century. She also has a personal problem. I liked the way the two stories linked together and that they both had strong women. This was an engaging read, I have read a number of books by this author and always enjoyed them. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Set in the Salt marshes, this is a very atmospheric book. In 1665, Margery is searching for her mother, who has gone missing after visiting her other daughter, Nell. When Margery arrives in Saltmarsh she finds an unwelcoming community, except for Bridget and Anne. The Black Plague hits the village, and most villagers die, but blame Margery for their troubles. There are superstitions and supernatural elements, mixed with human veniality. Meanwhile in 2026, Angel is conflicted about finding her birth mother and the impact it would have on her adoptive parents. She visits her brother in Saltmarsh, and starts finding, or is led to some clues. Both timelines are interesting, exploring the meaning of family and motherhood. The two stories dovetail together nicely in the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing this book for my enjoyment.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing this book for my enjoyment.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My first book by this author and overall I enjoyed it. A dual timeline going between 1665 and 2026 with both main characters having a similar experience.
The past story deals with a village suffering with the plague and a girl searching for her mother and the modern one has a girl and mother story too.
I usually read these books for the past stories as I love history and also time travel or time slip. This story see sawed for me. In the first half of the book I found the past story quite slow and it could have been fleshed out more. The modern story I was enjoying. Then the second half the past story picked up and I liked the action in it. The modern story got a little repetitive.
I did enjoy the outcome in both stories and it was nicely wound up.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an early copy.
The past story deals with a village suffering with the plague and a girl searching for her mother and the modern one has a girl and mother story too.
I usually read these books for the past stories as I love history and also time travel or time slip. This story see sawed for me. In the first half of the book I found the past story quite slow and it could have been fleshed out more. The modern story I was enjoying. Then the second half the past story picked up and I liked the action in it. The modern story got a little repetitive.
I did enjoy the outcome in both stories and it was nicely wound up.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an early copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the seventh book by Clare that I have read. I have loved them all and this one didn’t disappoint. It is a dual timeline, 1665 and 2026. We have Margery in 1665 looking in the village of Saltmarsh for her mother who had gone to visit Nell, Margery’s sister. Angel in 2026 has just heard from Kayla who says she is her birth sister and wants Angel to meet her birth mother. Angel is torn and escapes to her brother’s house in Saltmarsh for a break to clear her thoughts.
Clare’s description of the local marsh is painted in detail along with all the myths about it. The smugglers, the mysterious dog, Black Shuck, a large black hound with red eyes that glowed in the mist. The atmosphere is built on all these details and the story becomes a real page turner. I loved this book.
My thanks go to NetGalley, Clare and the publishers, Boldwood Books for an arc of this exciting book.
Clare’s description of the local marsh is painted in detail along with all the myths about it. The smugglers, the mysterious dog, Black Shuck, a large black hound with red eyes that glowed in the mist. The atmosphere is built on all these details and the story becomes a real page turner. I loved this book.
My thanks go to NetGalley, Clare and the publishers, Boldwood Books for an arc of this exciting book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Boldwood Books, Clare Marchant, and NetGalley for the eARC of The Curse of the Saltmarsh Girl.
This was moody, atmospheric, and captivating. I originally stumbled across it due to the interconnecting storylines and beautiful cover. I adored the story. It is full of folklore, family drama, healing, and mystery as Angel tries to unravel the story of Saltmarsh in the present and Margery looks for her mother in the past. There's a hint of romance, a generous helping of found family, and an unsettling, foggy, water-logged marsh. I don't really have a lot of criticism other than that I wish I was still reading it! I downright savored this.
I actually think fans of Kristin Hannah might enjoy this quite a bit!
This was moody, atmospheric, and captivating. I originally stumbled across it due to the interconnecting storylines and beautiful cover. I adored the story. It is full of folklore, family drama, healing, and mystery as Angel tries to unravel the story of Saltmarsh in the present and Margery looks for her mother in the past. There's a hint of romance, a generous helping of found family, and an unsettling, foggy, water-logged marsh. I don't really have a lot of criticism other than that I wish I was still reading it! I downright savored this.
I actually think fans of Kristin Hannah might enjoy this quite a bit!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In 1665 Margery goes to Saltmarsh to find her mum who visited her sister Nell. She discovers her sister has died and her mum is nowhere to be seen. The locals are not friendly and when stories of the mysterious Black Shuck being seen, and an illness falling on the village, Margery is the first person to be blamed.
Present day and Angel retreats to her brothers rural barn to process the information that she may have found her birth mother and a sister. Meeting with a neighbour gives her a chance to unearth some strange signs she's finding, and investigates centuries old curses.
This is a wonderful dual timeline novel, the setting is perfect, an atmospheric mist shrouded isolated village abandoned after the plague. Just proves the past is never truly buried
Present day and Angel retreats to her brothers rural barn to process the information that she may have found her birth mother and a sister. Meeting with a neighbour gives her a chance to unearth some strange signs she's finding, and investigates centuries old curses.
This is a wonderful dual timeline novel, the setting is perfect, an atmospheric mist shrouded isolated village abandoned after the plague. Just proves the past is never truly buried
July 26, 2026
This was awesome!! One of my favourites of the year so far for sure and a definite keeper. The setting of the creepy, foggy and ghostly marshes had such a similar atmosphere to the foggy moors of The Woman in Black and I found myself getting quite creeped out! I loved the weaving of the old folk tales into the story and how some things could be explained away but some really felt like the supernatural explanation was the only logical one. I enjoyed both the 1665 story with the mystery of what had happened to Margery’s mother, and the present day unraveling of the mystery of the symbols at the church and what they could mean. I would definitely be keen to read more from this author as the writing was so delicious and engaging and I never wanted to put this down from start to finish!
October 11, 2026
I really enjoyed the dual timeline approach in this book and loved the setting as knowing the area quite well I could really live through the moments in this book. The main characters were great and I loved the way the stories came together and overlapped. It had a great atmosphere and feel to the whole book.
I found the story itself rather repetitive and felt the author laboured many points unnecessarily and I think overall the book would have been better a bit shorter, with a lot of that repetition cut out.
Having said that I was hooked and wanting to get to the bottom of the mystery from the very start and really enjoyed learning about some of the history I had no idea about for this part of our coast!
I found the story itself rather repetitive and felt the author laboured many points unnecessarily and I think overall the book would have been better a bit shorter, with a lot of that repetition cut out.
Having said that I was hooked and wanting to get to the bottom of the mystery from the very start and really enjoyed learning about some of the history I had no idea about for this part of our coast!
August 17, 2026
This was a duel timeline story of Angel in the current time and Margery in the 17th century. Both girls was experiencing issues about their mother's. Largely was looking for hers while Angel had discovered her birth mother from a DNA sample and was trying to understand why she had been abandoned. The story took us deep into a time of folklore and plague times the village abandoned in the 21st century was suffering from plague in the 17th and struggling to understand what this illness was that was taking its villagers to quickly. This story was full of mystery and was very intense .
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for my review copy
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for my review copy
September 15, 2026
A mysterious and spooky timeslip story of mothers and daughters and the unbreakable bonds between them. In 1665, Margery comes to a small village looking for her mother and finds…nothing but mystery, rumors, suspicion and the plague.
400 years later, another young woman comes to Saltmarsh, hoping to meet someone who claims to be her birthmother. But she gets caught up in the story of another mother and daughter: Margery’s story.
The Curse of the Saltmarsh girl is spooky and atmospheric…you won't be able to turn out the lights because the black dog might be waiting for you! Enjoyable read for those who like spooky,, scary and mysterious, it’s all three.
400 years later, another young woman comes to Saltmarsh, hoping to meet someone who claims to be her birthmother. But she gets caught up in the story of another mother and daughter: Margery’s story.
The Curse of the Saltmarsh girl is spooky and atmospheric…you won't be able to turn out the lights because the black dog might be waiting for you! Enjoyable read for those who like spooky,, scary and mysterious, it’s all three.
July 12, 2026
Firstly thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
I absolutely devoured this book in one day . Told through dual timelines this tells the story of Angel in present day and Margery in plague ridden Saltmarsh in 1665. Both see lights in the marsh, a big black dog with red eyes and eerie goings on in the mist.
This tale was atmospheric and interesting and it was another great historical fiction novel by this author . 3.75⭐️ rounded up
I absolutely devoured this book in one day . Told through dual timelines this tells the story of Angel in present day and Margery in plague ridden Saltmarsh in 1665. Both see lights in the marsh, a big black dog with red eyes and eerie goings on in the mist.
This tale was atmospheric and interesting and it was another great historical fiction novel by this author . 3.75⭐️ rounded up
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