A narrative that is as flowing as the river Thames along which the characters live, with undercurrents and multiple narratives and characters that are linked, although this isn't immediately apparent.

This novel is set in the late 19th century and is part folklore, part magic, part myth but overall a wonderfully told story, which begins with the near drowning and miraculous recovery of a young girl. There are a large number of characters, each with a fully drawn backstory - this can feel a little drawn out at times, hence four rather than five stars, but each has a place in this narrative which explores a mystery, loss and love amongst other things.

I am glad I read this and many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a review copy. I've enjoyed Diane Setterfield's other novels and this doesn't disappoint.

I have been meaning to read something by Diane Setterfield for a long time. I’m glad I finally did. This is a clever tale. Full of twists and turns like the river that inspired it, you never quite know how things are going to turn out. Populated with great, sympathetic characters and an absorbing plot, this is a masterclass in old fashioned story telling. I devoured it on my flight back from my holiday and the hours literally flew by.

Fantastic, fantastic novel. A long wait for me since The Thirteenth Tale, absolute beauty of a novel, but it's worth it.

Setterfield writes about sadness as if she's doing embroidery. The finished work is breathtaking. What an absolute talent, to take the readers hand and carry them away to a story of mystery, developing and unfolding plot from character to character, captivating them at all times. The story set in a small village and it does flow like a river, and is very character heavy.

Absolutely enjoyed it and will be looking forward for Setterfield's next book.