The Burial Club

by Claire Bamford

376 pages, Paperback

Published August 28, 2026

Reviews

[Emma]

This author has grown into her writing and this book shows it. Her debut novel, The Messenger, (which I'd urge you to read) is easy to read and well put together. Her second novel, was even better; more characters, people you instantly liked and a plot that glides along nicely right through to it's conclusion. The book centres around a young girl with the ability to catch glimpses of things before they happen, but she starts seeing something that she doesn't fully understand. As the book moves along, we're drawn into her family life and friendships and I enjoyed every page.

[alisdiscovers]

The Burial Club by Claire Bamford is a historical fiction novel.
I fell in love with Marianne’s character almost as soon as she was introduced. She was funny, charismatic and, in many ways, surprisingly modern, which made her such an enjoyable character to spend time with. There was something about her personality that immediately drew me in, and I found myself particularly invested in her as the story unfolded.
I also really enjoyed Claire Bamford’s writing style. It flowed naturally and made this an easy book to read, with a lovely balance between the historical setting and the characters at the heart of the story. I never felt that the historical element became overwhelming, and instead it created a setting that I could settle into and enjoy.
For me, Marianne was the real highlight. I loved her spirit and the way she brought humour and personality to the story. She felt like a character who could easily have stepped outside the pages and joined me for a conversation, and that made the book all the more enjoyable.
I really enjoyed The Burial Club. It was an easy, engaging historical read with a wonderfully charismatic central character, and Marianne is definitely a character I won't forget in a hurry.
If you enjoy historical fiction with strong, memorable characters, an easy-flowing writing style and a story that brings a little humour and warmth alongside its historical setting.

[David]

I really enjoyed this one! A mystery with a difference, especially because Marianne can see and feel things before they happen. I thought her gift worked really well within the story and made it stand out.

Marianne was definitely my favourite character. She was such a lovely, strong and independent girl, and even with her confusing visions, she still felt really relatable. I enjoyed following her journey and getting caught up in the mystery alongside her.

The opening, with Sophia’s passing, was incredibly sad but written so compassionately. I thought it was a beautiful and emotional way to start the story.

The pacing was spot on too. It didn’t give too much away too early, and I found myself invested after just a couple of chapters. The plot kept me intrigued, and the ending was really satisfying.

I don’t want to give anything away, as always, but I’d definitely recommend picking this one up if you enjoy mysteries with something a little different.

A definite 5 stars from me, and I’d happily read more from this author! 📚❤️

[Nicola Malloch]

Oh this book was brilliant, I love strong female characters and supernatural gifts that lead to unexpected journeys. The Victorian era is one that fascinates me, it was a time when invention was key and the supernatural was a huge part of society. This book really immersed me in that world and I loved it. The way in which Marianne learns to embrace her powers to solve the murders was simply brilliant and the dynamic between her and the undertakers sister was great

[Sally Vaughan]

I loved this book. The first chapter had me in tears and I couldn't put it down from then onwards. The characters are relatable, the story interesting and you are quickly invested in how everything unfolds. I'd highly recommend giving it a try.

[Kathryn Rees]

Great book, I'm loving it, I highly recommend it.

[Chantelle]

4.5 ⭐ rounded up!

I can’t believe the sapphics keep finding me I wasn’t even trying this time I swear!! Maybe I’m just the sapphic whisperer? (I’m not complaining)