What do you think?
Rate this book
Where the Gulls Fall Silent
A small fishing village, a shunned healer, her daughter, tradition, superstition and a world set to change.
Kerensa lives with her mother, the healer Meliora, on the edge of a small fishing community on the Cornish Coast.
The townsfolk, who work the fish runs of pilchard and mackerel that make their way up the Atlantic coast, call on her mother for help with their ailments, but never for her company.
Kerensa does not know why.
Curses and superstitions whisper around her as she grows into a competent young woman, fighting for her place amongst the people of Porth Gwynn.
But what has caused the rift between her and the town?
And can their traditional way of life survive in the face of changing winds?
Where the Gulls Fall Silent is an historical fiction that explores the lives of the fishermen and women who made their living from the rough Atlantic Ocean; the hardship they faced; the secrets that divided them; and the community spirit that pulled them through.
A story of love, loss, hope and second chances.
Kerensa lives with her mother, the healer Meliora, on the edge of a small fishing community on the Cornish Coast.
The townsfolk, who work the fish runs of pilchard and mackerel that make their way up the Atlantic coast, call on her mother for help with their ailments, but never for her company.
Kerensa does not know why.
Curses and superstitions whisper around her as she grows into a competent young woman, fighting for her place amongst the people of Porth Gwynn.
But what has caused the rift between her and the town?
And can their traditional way of life survive in the face of changing winds?
Where the Gulls Fall Silent is an historical fiction that explores the lives of the fishermen and women who made their living from the rough Atlantic Ocean; the hardship they faced; the secrets that divided them; and the community spirit that pulled them through.
A story of love, loss, hope and second chances.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2020
7 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Lelita Baldock
7 books76 followersLelita Baldock is an author of historical and literary fiction.
Lelita's novels focus on lesser-known aspects of history and the incredible everyday people who endure and overcome.
You can follow her on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lelit...
Lelita's novels focus on lesser-known aspects of history and the incredible everyday people who endure and overcome.
You can follow her on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lelit...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 24, 2021
This book warmed my heart. It's a book you continue to think about long after you've read the last page. I genuinely loved it. The spirited female mc, Kerensa, reminded me of Kya in 'Where the Crawdads Sing'. They both face prejudice and hardship. They fight valiantly for independence, and they both grow into strong women. The main character is not the only similarity; both novels evoke strong emotion. The prose is beautiful, words that are crafted with the author's heart. And the setting... OH, just stunning. Yes, the setting IS character in this incredible novel set around a fishing village during the 19th Century. Lelita Baldock has written an incredible book and I can't recommend it highly enough.
December 14, 2023
Takes you back in a lost era
The author is a master of writing. The place and people come alive in her word weaving. It is a harsh world of a seafaring village and people. Beautiful characters and deeply rich story of the highs and lows of life in that time.
The author is a master of writing. The place and people come alive in her word weaving. It is a harsh world of a seafaring village and people. Beautiful characters and deeply rich story of the highs and lows of life in that time.
November 27, 2021
Where the Gulls Fall Silent by Lelita Baldock promises enchantment, mother-daughter tension, and old set town ways vs. changing, more modern ways on the Cornish coast. The story holds true to its promise. Beginning in 1852, this is a good historical fiction escape!
January 18, 2022
Kerensa lives with her mother Meliora on the outskirts of Porth Gwyn, a small fishing village on the Cornish coast. Meliora is a healer and despite helping the villagers, she is shrouded in suspicion. Kerensa also struggles to belong to Porth Gwyn amid whispers of a curse.
Wonderful character development, a stunning setting on the beautiful and dramatic Cornish coast. Trigger Warning (minor spoilers)- this book does mention adult themes, including rape and abortion, the latter being depicted. Though the scene was not gory, it may be upsetting - but had the author not depicted it, personally I believe it contributed towards the raw power of this book and its authentic look into the harsh way of life, especially for women.
This book has been one of my favourites of 2021 – and has become a favourite in general. A breathtakingly beautiful, powerful, poignant and significant book. Cannot recommend it highly enough. I'm looking forward to reading out this author's other books.
Wonderful character development, a stunning setting on the beautiful and dramatic Cornish coast. Trigger Warning (minor spoilers)- this book does mention adult themes, including rape and abortion, the latter being depicted. Though the scene was not gory, it may be upsetting - but had the author not depicted it, personally I believe it contributed towards the raw power of this book and its authentic look into the harsh way of life, especially for women.
This book has been one of my favourites of 2021 – and has become a favourite in general. A breathtakingly beautiful, powerful, poignant and significant book. Cannot recommend it highly enough. I'm looking forward to reading out this author's other books.
November 6, 2021
Having already discovered Lelita's other works, I was excited to pick this one up and discover anew her writing style. Following the story of Kerensa, I felt fully immersed in her world from page one. Underpinned by such beautiful description, the book allowed me to be transported to Cornwall, and back through the passage of time. In particular the way foods and smells were depicted really made me drool. Thank you for this gem.
November 11, 2023
A Cornish Tale
Oh, what a beautifully written tale of a time gone by on the storm-lashed Cornish coast. This is a story of simple pleasures and tragic losses, when lives were tied to the timeless rhythms of the seasons. It also tells of cruel superstitions and gossip that destroy innocent lives. The story seemed to ebb and flow as effortlessly as the tides. I loved this one.
Oh, what a beautifully written tale of a time gone by on the storm-lashed Cornish coast. This is a story of simple pleasures and tragic losses, when lives were tied to the timeless rhythms of the seasons. It also tells of cruel superstitions and gossip that destroy innocent lives. The story seemed to ebb and flow as effortlessly as the tides. I loved this one.
January 18, 2024
This is my absolute favorite book by Lelita Baldock and probably one of my favorites of all times.
I simply couldn't take it down. The characters felt so real, so close, the story so compelling. I cried my eyes out more than once out of both joy and sadness.
I don't have Lelita's talent with words so I'll simply urge you to read it and be mesmerized, maybe even transformed.
I simply couldn't take it down. The characters felt so real, so close, the story so compelling. I cried my eyes out more than once out of both joy and sadness.
I don't have Lelita's talent with words so I'll simply urge you to read it and be mesmerized, maybe even transformed.
December 11, 2025
Engaging
I love, loved this novel.Lelita's characters are so engaging that you become absorbed in their lives. The description of the the town ,the trials of storms , deaths and the resilience of the people who live there are so colorfully written that it. Seems you are part of their lives.
I truly loved this book.. It would make a great T.V. series. 😍
I love, loved this novel.Lelita's characters are so engaging that you become absorbed in their lives. The description of the the town ,the trials of storms , deaths and the resilience of the people who live there are so colorfully written that it. Seems you are part of their lives.
I truly loved this book.. It would make a great T.V. series. 😍
June 23, 2022
4.8 out of 5
Kerensa grows up in a Cornish fishing village. She lives with her mother in a hut just outside of town. Her birth was seen as a bad omen that the fish runs would dwindle and rumors of her true origins keep her apart. Despite all of this Kerensa endures.
What I liked:
The author is a master at painting a picture of long ago places in a way that brings them to life. It was very easy to immerse into Kerensa's world, to feel her struggles, to smell the ocean air, to hear the gulls on the breeze. The characters were wonderfully drawn. The world is exceptionally built. The story is well crafted and engaging. I knew where the story was leading me, but it still wrenched my heart out and then gave me hope once again. What a ride!
What I didn't like:
The only thing I didn't like was the end. The last chapter reads more like an epilogue, but honestly, it is a very minor criticism and didn't take anything away from the overall beauty and power of the story.
Overall:
I've read one other book by this author and this story is equally powerful, lovely, and immersive. I can't get over how well the author pulls us into these historical worlds. I have another one of her books on my TBR list already. She has a lifelong fan in this reader.
Kerensa grows up in a Cornish fishing village. She lives with her mother in a hut just outside of town. Her birth was seen as a bad omen that the fish runs would dwindle and rumors of her true origins keep her apart. Despite all of this Kerensa endures.
What I liked:
The author is a master at painting a picture of long ago places in a way that brings them to life. It was very easy to immerse into Kerensa's world, to feel her struggles, to smell the ocean air, to hear the gulls on the breeze. The characters were wonderfully drawn. The world is exceptionally built. The story is well crafted and engaging. I knew where the story was leading me, but it still wrenched my heart out and then gave me hope once again. What a ride!
What I didn't like:
The only thing I didn't like was the end. The last chapter reads more like an epilogue, but honestly, it is a very minor criticism and didn't take anything away from the overall beauty and power of the story.
Overall:
I've read one other book by this author and this story is equally powerful, lovely, and immersive. I can't get over how well the author pulls us into these historical worlds. I have another one of her books on my TBR list already. She has a lifelong fan in this reader.
May 9, 2022
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: Where the Gulls Fall Silent
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Lelita Baldock
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
"Where the Gulls Fall Silent'' penned by the author Lelita Baldock is a historical fiction. Story is set in Porth Gwynn. The story is set in Porth Gwynn, Cornish Coast. Main character of the story is Kerensa Williams. She was often called Kez by the people who know her. Kerensa lives with her mother Meliora. Meliora and Kerensa live in a fishing village. Every day, they have to struggle for food. Kerensa has good friends Rewan and Gerens who have helped her with food sometimes.
Meliora was a healer. She has shared her knowledge of herbs with the townsfolk. With so many challenges in life, will Meliora live long enough? Will Kerensa find love in Porth Gwynn?
The glossary mentioned in the beginning of the book is really helpful. Storyline is unique and interesting. This book introduced me to life in a fishing village and the hardships people face in their daily life. Cover photo of the book is nice. It is an insightful read. I was totally hooked to the story till the last page. I appreciate the author for writing the characters well.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Lelita Baldock
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
"Where the Gulls Fall Silent'' penned by the author Lelita Baldock is a historical fiction. Story is set in Porth Gwynn. The story is set in Porth Gwynn, Cornish Coast. Main character of the story is Kerensa Williams. She was often called Kez by the people who know her. Kerensa lives with her mother Meliora. Meliora and Kerensa live in a fishing village. Every day, they have to struggle for food. Kerensa has good friends Rewan and Gerens who have helped her with food sometimes.
Meliora was a healer. She has shared her knowledge of herbs with the townsfolk. With so many challenges in life, will Meliora live long enough? Will Kerensa find love in Porth Gwynn?
The glossary mentioned in the beginning of the book is really helpful. Storyline is unique and interesting. This book introduced me to life in a fishing village and the hardships people face in their daily life. Cover photo of the book is nice. It is an insightful read. I was totally hooked to the story till the last page. I appreciate the author for writing the characters well.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
May 9, 2022
I love reading historical fiction. Recently I got my hands on the book 'Where the Gulls Fall Silent'. It is the third book by the author Lelita Baldock. This book is the first installment in The Bell Cases series.
Story begins from the year 1852. It is on the Cornish Coast. The story parts where Meliora, a healer and her daughter Kerensa communicate with each other are my favorite. Those moments opened my eyes to how some people have to face hardships in filling their stomachs. It was nice to see Kerensa saving the pasty for her mother too as she knew that they don't have flour at home.
I loved the characters of Rewan and Gerens too. Meliora is a strong character. Even though she was empty stomach, she gave the values to her daughter of not stealing food and not taking charity. Pace of the story is fast and I enjoyed it. I didn't feel bored anytime while reading it. Language of the book is lucid and I was able to follow the story well. Those who enjoy reading historical fiction should get their hands on this for sure.
Story begins from the year 1852. It is on the Cornish Coast. The story parts where Meliora, a healer and her daughter Kerensa communicate with each other are my favorite. Those moments opened my eyes to how some people have to face hardships in filling their stomachs. It was nice to see Kerensa saving the pasty for her mother too as she knew that they don't have flour at home.
I loved the characters of Rewan and Gerens too. Meliora is a strong character. Even though she was empty stomach, she gave the values to her daughter of not stealing food and not taking charity. Pace of the story is fast and I enjoyed it. I didn't feel bored anytime while reading it. Language of the book is lucid and I was able to follow the story well. Those who enjoy reading historical fiction should get their hands on this for sure.
May 10, 2022
If you are looking for an escape into good historical fiction, then pick Lelita's Baldock "Where the Gulls Fall Silent". It is a wonderful story featuring a healer Meliora who has helped people of Porth Gwynn with her herbs and herbal knowledge. Sometimes, Kerensa, Meliora's daughter, gets rewarded with food. It was heart touching to see how we take food for granted but people who struggle for it everyday know its value much more than others.
There are some twists and turns in the story which made it even more enjoyable. This is a story of loss, love, sharing, hope, etc. One would learn a few important lessons while reading it. Story has strong and smooth narration. Read this story to know how Kerensa would navigate the world of superstitions. Will life bring some good changes for her?
The backdrop setting of the story is beautiful and gave me the perfect feeling of a fishing village. The story is descriptive. However, it took me a few pages to get the setting of the story. After a few pages, I got the grip of the story. I am really curious to read more books by the author.
There are some twists and turns in the story which made it even more enjoyable. This is a story of loss, love, sharing, hope, etc. One would learn a few important lessons while reading it. Story has strong and smooth narration. Read this story to know how Kerensa would navigate the world of superstitions. Will life bring some good changes for her?
The backdrop setting of the story is beautiful and gave me the perfect feeling of a fishing village. The story is descriptive. However, it took me a few pages to get the setting of the story. After a few pages, I got the grip of the story. I am really curious to read more books by the author.
May 11, 2022
I love reading historical fiction. Recently I got my hands on the book 'Where the Gulls Fall Silent'. It is the third book by the author Lelita Baldock. This book is the first installment in The Bell Cases series.
Story begins from the year 1852. It is on the Cornish Coast. The story parts where Meliora, a healer and her daughter Kerensa communicate with each other are my favorite. Those moments opened my eyes to how some people have to face hardships in filling their stomachs. It was nice to see Kerensa saving the pasty for her mother too as she knew that they don't have flour at home.
I loved the characters of Rewan and Gerens too. Meliora is a strong character. Even though she was empty stomach, she gave the values to her daughter of not stealing food and not taking charity. Pace of the story is fast and I enjoyed it. I didn't feel bored anytime while reading it. Language of the book is lucid and I was able to follow the story well. Those who enjoy reading historical fiction should get their hands on this for sure.
Story begins from the year 1852. It is on the Cornish Coast. The story parts where Meliora, a healer and her daughter Kerensa communicate with each other are my favorite. Those moments opened my eyes to how some people have to face hardships in filling their stomachs. It was nice to see Kerensa saving the pasty for her mother too as she knew that they don't have flour at home.
I loved the characters of Rewan and Gerens too. Meliora is a strong character. Even though she was empty stomach, she gave the values to her daughter of not stealing food and not taking charity. Pace of the story is fast and I enjoyed it. I didn't feel bored anytime while reading it. Language of the book is lucid and I was able to follow the story well. Those who enjoy reading historical fiction should get their hands on this for sure.
February 28, 2023
I found Lelita Baldock on Twitter. I had a brief interaction with her and decided to try one of her books. I'm so glad I did. She fills each character with so many interesting qualities. The main character in the story is a forager and a healer/midwife as I read about the herbs, she used it reminded me of The Book Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry. There was a lot of time put into researching this book.
This story deals with some very heavy topics and there were times when I felt a tear escape from my eye. It's a story about people and how their words can affect someone for their entire life. It's a story of otherness and isolation. It's a story about the damage that secrets can do to your life. It is also a story about hope and resilience and strength.
If you are looking for a story with a strong female character, I recommend this book.
This story deals with some very heavy topics and there were times when I felt a tear escape from my eye. It's a story about people and how their words can affect someone for their entire life. It's a story of otherness and isolation. It's a story about the damage that secrets can do to your life. It is also a story about hope and resilience and strength.
If you are looking for a story with a strong female character, I recommend this book.
February 3, 2022
Beautifully written as usual!
Lelita explores coastal life in the 1800s in exquisite words.
After finishing the book it felt like I left life at the sea, and just returned from a beautiful shore full of the sound of the waves and seagulls.
I loved the character of Rewan, his determination-wonder if there are really men of such solid character- to marry his beloved despite of the superstitious environment and his brother's loyalty and love.
Also, Kerensa's mother, her strength and love for her daughter.
I like the author's calm twist, whether I am surprised or not, I did really enjoy reading the story even when she describes minute details.
I recommend any book written by the author. :)
Lelita explores coastal life in the 1800s in exquisite words.
After finishing the book it felt like I left life at the sea, and just returned from a beautiful shore full of the sound of the waves and seagulls.
I loved the character of Rewan, his determination-wonder if there are really men of such solid character- to marry his beloved despite of the superstitious environment and his brother's loyalty and love.
Also, Kerensa's mother, her strength and love for her daughter.
I like the author's calm twist, whether I am surprised or not, I did really enjoy reading the story even when she describes minute details.
I recommend any book written by the author. :)
May 12, 2023
I enjoy reading a wide variety of genres. I find that how can I become a better writer if I don’t branch out from my own style of writing.
Where the Gulls Fall Silent is an excellent read.
This book is set in a small fishing town in the 1850’s. The main character, a young woman, lives a life full of diversity and challenges.
I don’t want to give too much away, other than this- READ IT!
I did not expect to find myself becoming emotional at certain points in the book, but I did.
It was a good reminder that no matter what century, humans face the same struggles and hardships.
I wanted so badly for the perfect, happy ending for the main character, but that was not the case. But I know, it was the ending she needed and as the reader, I respect that.
Where the Gulls Fall Silent is an excellent read.
This book is set in a small fishing town in the 1850’s. The main character, a young woman, lives a life full of diversity and challenges.
I don’t want to give too much away, other than this- READ IT!
I did not expect to find myself becoming emotional at certain points in the book, but I did.
It was a good reminder that no matter what century, humans face the same struggles and hardships.
I wanted so badly for the perfect, happy ending for the main character, but that was not the case. But I know, it was the ending she needed and as the reader, I respect that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2021
This is a beautifully written book with fantastic description! If you wanted to be fully immersed in a fantastic story then this is the book for you. The author is amazing writer and this is a great addition to her catalogue.
May 18, 2022
If you’re really into historical fictions, I’ll gladly suggest you read this amazing piece by lelita Baldock . Kerensa’s life was filled with sorrows, pains, and most of all true love.. a journey you’d like to know how it ends
June 30, 2023
I wish I could pronounce all of the names because I felt like I was there living with them. The descriptions enabled me to experience the sounds, smells, tastes, loves, sorrows and to feel the cold. Looking forward to more from Lelita.
April 26, 2023
Compelling setting and story
Set in a small Cornish fishing community, this story is beautifully written. I can almost taste the salt and hear the waves.
Set in a small Cornish fishing community, this story is beautifully written. I can almost taste the salt and hear the waves.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews