The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner is another brilliant addition to her already impressive body of work. As a fan of her previous novels, I was excited to dive into this one, and it did not disappoint. Penner continues to captivate readers with her unique blend of historical fiction and magical realism, creating an unforgettable narrative that spans both time and space.

The novel’s dual time periods are executed flawlessly. Penner masterfully shifts between the past and the present, giving each timeline its own distinct voice and atmosphere while weaving them together in a way that feels seamless. This structure allows the reader to connect deeply with the characters in both eras, and the transitions between timelines are never jarring—instead, they feel natural and add layers of intrigue to the story. Each period enhances the other, adding context and depth to the overall narrative, which is a testament to Penner’s skill as a writer.

The characters are another highlight of the book. Both of the female protagonists are strong, multi-dimensional, and deeply relatable. In historical fiction, it can sometimes feel like the female characters are relegated to certain roles, but Penner’s protagonists break those molds and come into their own as complex, independent figures who drive the narrative forward. Each woman brings her own unique strengths to her respective time period, and watching them navigate the challenges they face is both empowering and captivating. I always appreciate a well-written strong female lead, and Penner certainly delivers two of them in this book.

The plot itself is rich with mystery, magic, and romance, which Penner blends together in a way that never feels forced. The Amalfi Coast setting is as beautiful as it is atmospheric, and the backdrop of the curse adds a layer of suspense that keeps the reader hooked. There’s a sense of wonder and enchantment throughout the story, and Penner’s magical realism allows the supernatural elements to feel grounded in the real world. The tension between the curse’s legacy and the present-day characters’ quests for answers makes for an engrossing read.

One of the things I most admire about Penner’s writing is how she brings both history and magic to life in a way that feels both educational and entertaining. The historical details are rich and immersive, but they’re always balanced with the intrigue and mysticism that make her stories so enjoyable. She’s able to blend the two genres with ease, making for a narrative that feels timeless and relevant at once.

Penner’s storytelling has once again left me in awe, and I will eagerly continue to read anything she publishes in the future.

1821, Positano, Italy. Mari is a streghe, a sea witch, who works with other powerful women in her small Amalfi Coast town to keep it safe from pirates, and prosperous for the fishermen. However, some dangerous men have discovered their secrets and tragedy strikes. Does Mari have what it takes to protect her village, her friends, and her love? Present day - Haven Ambrose is a nautical archaeologist leading a team of women on an important investigative project with shipwrecks off the Amalfi Coast. Additionally, she hopes to discover what her late father had been so excited about on his very last dive. But the locals are talking of the "Amalfi Curse," responsible for strong currents and strange happenings. Haven dives into her research both in and out of the water - hoping to figure out if what's happening in Positano is nature, or part of something more sinister...

💭 Total knock out! This was my first book by Sarah Penner, and I loved it. The past and present were woven together seamlessly, providing the right amount of tension. I thought the little details - letters, diary entries, newspaper articles- added insight and a new POV. The ways the past and present intertwined were clever and captivating. I also was so immersed in the Italian setting, with the sea, the stairs, the villas, the food and drink. And both love stories added a sweet touch, showing that perhaps love is more powerful than magic, more valuable than sunken treasure. And if that doesn't sell you - holy cow, the cover!! Add this one to your TBR, releasing in April!

This book was a captivating, can't put it down, kind of read. A dual timeline, historical, mystery set on the Amalfi coast, with witchcraft and romance and treasure hunting adventure.. absolutely loved it and can't wait to read more from Sarah Penner!

✨ ARC Review ✨

Release Date April 29, 2025

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for my free copy of this book.

1821, Positano, Italy

Mari DeLuca hates the water. It took so much from her but she will do what she must as the strongest streghe she is meant to take over for her mother. But soon she won’t be there because she is planning to leave. But that changes when the Mazza brothers show up and kidnap some of their own. Now she must do everything in her power to find her friends and end the reign of the Mazza’s.

Present Day, Positano, Italy

Haven Ambrose, nautical archaeologist, is ready to head her first large scale expedition looking and recording shipwreck off the coast of Positano. But she is also looking for gems her father saw on his last dive. Until strange occurrences start happening in the water that make people leave in droves. Her search will take her through archives, dives, and a history she never expected.

I loved this book! The author, @sarah_penner_author has done it again with this mix of modern and historical aspects. I absolutely loved this book so much. I almost went into archaeology and thought about underwater to focus on, so to have that in a book is a positive from me. She also includes witchcraft which I am focusing on this year. She melded these stories very well. I enjoy books that can do this well. This was a great book if you love a mix of historical and modern.

Magic and secrets propel this amazing book forward as we dive into the stories of Mari and Haven. I was instantly captivated by Mari's timeline and could have read a whole book just about her. I loved the witchcraft, the way the women came together against evil, and how she ultimately got away. Haven's timeline wasn't as tense, but it was a nice balance to the high-drama aspects of Mari's story. She was so determined to finish what her father started, not for greed, but for his legacy and I thought those motivations complimented Mari's well. I love the way magic was used and how it came full circle in Haven's timeline. The only thing keeping this from a full, 5-star read is that was the ending happened too fast for me. I wanted more from Haven's ending. I still highly recommend this and loved it!

4.5 rounded up.

This book is an inspiring exploration of women's strength, loss, love and the power of lineage. Sarah Penner hits all of the marks with The Amalfi Curse.

The story follows two women: Haven who is a modern day research diver on a hunt to locate a treasure her recently departed father had discovered and Mari, a witch of the sea who lived a century before. Haven's search pieces together the long-lost yet unforgettable aspects of Mari's existence.

In the early chapters, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the characters. However, as I delved deeper into the story, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that these characters had so much more to offer than my first impressions suggested. This unexpected growth made my reading experience all the more enjoyable.

Synopsis: It’s the 1820s. Mari is a sea witch (but a good witch, not a wicked witch, that’s a different story entirely) with red hair who, inconveniently, hates the sea. Honestly, she’s giving very Ariel vibes. She and her witch pals can control the water, which has provided her idyllic Italian coastal town with safety and prosperity. Until, however, the dirtball Mazza brothers, sailors with no moral compass and a lust for treasure, discover the women’s abilities and kidnap some of the women and swear to get Mari, too. Complications persist when Mari learns her true love, Holmes, is sailing for the very same brothers who want to bring ruin to her and everyone she loves. Yikes.

And, like the complexities of the ocean itself, this plot is not done yet.

There’s another, seemingly unrelated plot happening in present day spearheaded by an archaeological diver named Haven that ultimately overlaps with Mari’s story. What starts out for Heaven as an underwater dig to discover the mysterious underwater wreckage around an idyllic Italian coastal town (sound familiar?), ends up with Haven discovering much more than antiquated sea-wreckage: she unearths a discovery that reveals true treasure, but she must wade through secrets, betrayal, and limiting beliefs in order to obtain it.

Review: There was a lot in liked about this book: first of all, that cover? Gorgeous. Secondly, the setting of the town Positano on the Amalfi Coast is perfect. I just kept picturing the cerulean seascape of the movie Luca, which I adored. Finally, Penner always does such a great job of writing historical fantasy about such interesting topics, led by strong-female driven casts of characters. This book was no exception.

My major hang up with this story was the relationships, both with Mari and Holmes and Haven and her counterpart. I felt like I was plunged into their love stories without a chance to dip my toes in first. I heard about their love, but in wanted to see it develop more, especially Haven’s relationship. The same was true for Haven’s antagonist: another cannonball situation without the buildup. Finally, there were a few parts with a lot of nautical terms which slowed the pace down for me. I never thought I’d read the word “jib” so much. That said, those limitations are mine alone, as I know it shows a well-researched job on Penner’s part.

I’m thankful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book.

ADD THE AMALFI CURSE TO YOUR READING LISTS IMMEDIATELY. Sarah Penner is an autoread author for me, and I couldn't believe my luck to be able to read her latest book early. The Lost Apothecary and The London Seance Society were amazing, and The Amalfi Curse is the best yet. Witchcraft, romance, mystery, diving and the beautiful Italian coast all in one novel - yes please.

It may only be January, but I have a strong feeling The Amalfi Curse will be a top read of 2025.
Thank you HTP Books and NetGally for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

Reading this, I was transported back to Positano, one of my favorite places on earth! Rich with magic, I loved this book!

Sarah Penner's "The Amalfi Curse" is a captivating blend of historical fiction, mystery, and magical realism set against the enchanting backdrop of the Amalfi Coast. The dual timelines—one following 19th-century sea witches and the other a modern-day nautical archaeologist—are masterfully intertwined, keeping me engrossed from start to finish. Penner's vivid descriptions transported me to sun-drenched Italian shores, making the setting come alive. The characters' journeys, especially Haven's quest to honor her father's legacy, resonated deeply with me. This novel is a mesmerizing read that beautifully combines rich historical elements with a touch of magic.d

Having previously read The Lost Apothecary, I was familiar with the way Sarah Penner weaves historical story lines with a modern day investigation. The Amalfi Curse blended these two timelines seamlessly! I loved following the Italian Strega and the lore surrounding their involvement with centuries of shipwrecks along the Amalfi coast.

The Amalfi Curse is undeniably an amazing story that evokes great emotions. From the very beginning, this story focuses on discovery, ancestral history, and the forces that guide us. Historical events are unraveled as the present and future are being carefully created through the discovery of how grief is a driving force, one that is handled differently by each character.

Haven, a nautical archaeologist, is dealing with the grief of losing her father while working to discover the truth of what he had found during his last dive. Her current project has brought her to the Amalfi Coast, specifically Positano, to study shipwrecks and discover artifacts. While the direction of her project changes after her arrival, she remains set upon learning more about her father’s last discovery. She meets Enzo, a dive shop owner, and their relationship begins to develop quickly, leading her to meet his mother, Savina.

Tragically, Savina is dealing with the grief of losing her daughter. She is also coming to grips with her beliefs that turning away from her family ancestry has been the cause of the hardships she faced throughout life.

Haven’s project and her father’s discovery brought her to Positano. Her chance meeting with Enzo and Savina will take her on a unique exploration of Positano’s history and how the witches of the sea shaped the history of the village and could explain the current events taking place. Through Haven’s research, she learns of Mari DeLuca, her life as a sea witch, and her relationship with Holmes, a sailor. It is through the telling of Mari’s story, along with Holmes’ story, that we not only learn about their love for each other and Mari’s discontent with the power she holds but also how important the sea witches have been in the prosperity of Positano.
Haven’s project, her chance meetings, and the stories she uncovers will lead her on a path she never expected and a discovery that is more important than she could have imagined.

Thank you to The Hive(@htp_hive) and Harlequin Trade Publishing | Park Row for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of The Amalfi Curse.

I love everything about Sarah Penner’s work, but I truly think this one is my favorite. It was a gripping, fast paced novel that follows witches who protect the Amalfi Coast. The intertwining timelines keeps you glued to the pages, watching the story unfold but wondering how these worlds are finally going to connect. I always have loved historical fiction and think Sarah Penner does a phenomenal job at creating an atmospheric narrative full of mystery, romance, and powerful women.

*The Amalfi Curse* by Sarah Penner is a beautifully atmospheric historical mystery that blends intrigue, romance, and a touch of the supernatural against the stunning backdrop of Italy's Amalfi Coast. Penner, known for her skill in weaving together complex narratives, delivers a story that is both enchanting and suspenseful, with rich descriptions and a strong sense of place that draws readers into the world of its characters.

The novel follows two main timelines, each unfolding a mystery tied to a centuries-old curse that seems to haunt a family. One timeline centers around a modern-day woman who has recently relocated to the Amalfi Coast, seeking both a fresh start and answers to a mysterious inheritance. The other timeline dives into the past, exploring the origins of the curse and the tragic events that have reverberated through generations.

Penner’s writing is evocative, and the Amalfi Coast itself becomes a character in the story. The vivid descriptions of the coastal landscapes, the small, winding streets of the town, and the historical details about local legends all contribute to the novel’s immersive feel. The atmosphere is rich and vibrant, but also tinged with an underlying sense of danger, as the curse looms over everything.

The characters are intriguing, with emotional depth that allows readers to connect with their struggles, desires, and mysteries. The protagonist’s journey of uncovering her family’s secrets is compelling, and the way the past and present intersect keeps the reader hooked. Penner does a great job of balancing character-driven moments with plot twists that keep you on your toes.

While the book offers a satisfying blend of mystery and romance, it’s the themes of fate, family, and the weight of history that truly shine. The curse itself, which feels more symbolic than literal, adds a layer of tension that works well with the book’s broader themes of how the past shapes the present.

Overall, *The Amalfi Curse* is a captivating, atmospheric read perfect for fans of historical fiction with a touch of mystery and romance. If you enjoy stories about hidden family secrets, atmospheric settings, and well-drawn characters, this novel is sure to capture your imagination. Penner successfully creates a world that feels both enchanting and eerie, making this a great pick for those looking for a mystery with emotional depth.

The Amafali Curse by Sarah Penner is a captivating and haunting tale that blends historical fiction with rich mythology. From the very first page, Penner pulls readers into a world where secrets, betrayal, and ancient curses weave through the lives of complex, memorable characters. The plot is intricate, full of unexpected twists that keep you turning pages long into the night. The atmosphere she creates is immersive, with the vibrant setting of Amafali creating an almost tangible world.

Penner’s writing is eloquent, and her ability to build tension while exploring deep emotional themes of power, revenge, and redemption makes this book unforgettable. The way she intertwines personal stories with historical events is seamless and engrossing, drawing readers into a narrative that feels both timeless and contemporary.

What I especially loved about this novel is its exploration of the human spirit—how far we’re willing to go for love, revenge, and survival. Every character is multidimensional, and their arcs are incredibly satisfying.

If you enjoy novels that are thrilling, thought-provoking, and laced with just the right amount of magic and myth, The Amafali Curse is an absolute must-read. It’s a beautifully crafted, gripping story that will stay with you long after the last page. Five stars!

In this dual timeline novel, nautical archaeologist Haven Ambrose has arrived in Positano ahead of her all-female 'Project Relic' team to investigate mysterious shipwrecks along the Amalfi Coast but she is also on a secret quest to find the precious gemstones that her late father had discovered on his final dive. Haven's plans, however, are soon interrupted as misfortune plagues Positano with scientists obtaining strange readings from the ocean waters, a luxury yacht sinking in calm waters, and mounting fear that Mount Vesuvius could erupt. With plans on hold, Haven turns to conducting research in the local archives on early 19th century shipwrecks in the region where she learns the story of one 19th century woman and the legendary art of stregheria and can't help but wonder if the Amalfi Curse is behind the bad fortune that Positano is experiencing.

In the 1821 timeline, Mari DeLuca is one of a group of stregha (sea witches) that use their ability to harness the power of the sea to protect Positano from pirates and keep the fisherman safe and prosperous. Mari, however, feels burdened by these powers and longs to escape the coast with her secret lover but a looming threat may force Mari to choose between love and safeguarding the village.

This was a fast, entertaining read that combines magical realism, historical fiction, mystery and romance in a stunning setting. The well-written, enchanting story about powerful women grabbed me from the first chapter and I was captivated by both timelines with a slight preference for Mari's. Magical realism can be hit or miss for me but I really enjoyed this and will likely now read the author's previous books.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for sending a digital ARC of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

A little slow and confusing to get going, but I flew through the last half of this book. Really enjoyed the "in the moment" scenes of mystery and adventure and appreciated how the story turned out. For fans of light romance and seafaring adventure, I'd recommend this book!

Unfolding across duel timelines, The Amalfi Curse follows two women (Mari in 1821 and Haven in present day) and their nautical adventures. In 1821, "sea witches" (or streghe) protect the Amalfi coast from pirates. When they are discovered by the villainous Mazza brothers, Mari must choose between her own happiness and her sister streghe.

Meanwhile, in modern day Amalfi, underwater archeologist Haven has the opportunity of a lifetime to dive her father's final wreck. But mysterious shipwrecks and underwater volcanic activity causes her boss to sideline her all-female team in favor of an all-male one, using the paternalistic excuse that it would look bad if they got hurt. But is the real reason because the new dive lead is after the treasure her father discovered right before he died?

While the two storylines unfold a bit slower than I'd like, by the halfway mark, I was hooked. The 1821 storyline especially had me biting my nails as I did not know how it could possibly have a happy ending. Overall the storylines did finally come together and the ending was satisfactory.

This is my first book by the author. To be honest, based on the description, I was expecting a bit more action/adventure in the lines of the Uncharted movie or video games. While there some suspense toward the end, this was a much slower, magical realism type of story. I can see it being a good choice for bookclubs as well. Recommended for fans of female focused historical dramas and multi-generational tales.

Devoured this book in one day by the beach on a quick winter getaway. The setting of the novel was perfect to read sitting by the ocean and definitely took me to another place. I thought the writing was really visual. I also thought the character development was really good and appreciated the moments of humor in addition to the suspense. While I had a small inkling of some of the ending, it was still twisty enough to keep me guessing. Would definitely recommend!

I think April is a great time for this book to be published for it made me long for walking along the beach, but this does not match the current vibe outside my window in New England in January. I felt transported to the Italian coast and I appreciated the insight into nautical archaeology.

Because there were three characters vying for my attention, I never fully connected to any of them and they felt more surface level to me. Although I found the ending to be rushed, I did like how the two timelines were finally connected and this made for the reading experience as a whole to be satisfying.

I think readers who have enjoyed Penner’s previous novels will find this meets their expectations and the plot will appeal to both readers of historical fiction and magical realism.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the gifted copy.