I loved the dual timeline of this story set on the Amalfi Coast of Italy. I connected and felt that I wanted more from the centuries old stories of the characters from the past. I did not connect as well to the present day storyline. Overall, I enjoyed this mystery story. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC opportunity.

This book had it all. Two engaging timelines and POV’s, Italian setting, a treasure hunt, romance and some magic. What more can you ask for?
It was a fun fast read with an original plot!

A fun story of sea witches and a treasure hunt! Sarah Penner is excellent at switching between narrators while maintaining interest in each story line throughout the novel. For The Amalfi Curse, I do wish the character development was a bit more in depth like I've read with her other novels. I wished I knew more about some of the side characters who were playing crucial roles in the advancement of the story. However, it was still a great read and I will recommend it to friends and family.

The Amalfi Curse beautifully brings together dual timelines, that tell the story of love, loss, a curse, witchcraft, and hidden treasure. Mari DeLuca is living in Positano in the 1820s. She, along with some of the other women in her town, are known as streghe del mare, witches of the sea, and they have the ability to affect the currents of the water. Haven Ambrose, in modern day, is a nautical archaeologist and has come to the Amalfi Coast to lead a research project on the many shipwrecks that have happened in the area, for so many years. When her project is taken over by a fellow archeologist with ulterior motives, Haven starts to discover Mari’s past and the link she has to the strange things that are still occurring on the Amalfi Coast over hundreds of years later.

I have been looking forward to reading The Amalfi Curse and it did not disappoint. Penner really brings the reader to this part of Italy with beautifully detailed descriptions. You can’t help but feel the sensations of the warm sun, the sand, and the salty smell of the sea. This was such an immersive setting for the book, and a great place to base the myth of sirens, who the streghe were said to be descended from.

Both Mari and Haven were strong female main characters. I felt invested in each of their timelines, and Penner did an amazing job in switching their POVs, at just the right time, to create suspense in both timelines. Mari and Haven also have complicated backgrounds when it comes to the sea, because of loved ones they have lost, which really drives their motivations in the book. I felt like there was just enough romance, in both women’s stories, that added to their character’s complexities, without overshadowing their strengths. And even though, at times, I was unsure how things would turn out for the women, I felt that Penner wrapped things up really well, and it was a satisfying conclusion for Mari and Haven.

If you love historical fiction, magical realism, mysterious tales of witches, hidden treasure, danger on the seas, and a touch of romance, then I would highly recommend The Amalfi Curse.

This book was so so so amazingly good! I loved all the different POV’s, and the way that two love stories are combined into one book. I know I personally was so so sad when I thought that Holmes was drowning in the sea and then a few chapters later to know that he went vet to Li Galli my jaw was just on the floor. This book made me feel so many different emotions from laughing kicking my feet crying I went through the wringer. But this will be a book that I will recommend infinity out of 10 for forever. I loved the twist about learning that Savina was Strega, and currently practicing, which was leading everything to happen in the water. And then, when Conrad called Haven at the end of the book, tell her that he had found fakes I was dying laughing because karma got him so good. These are just a few examples of why I loved this book so so much and beyond obsessed with. It cannot wait to read what else Sarah Penner has to write.🌊🐚🤿

I soft DNF'd this e-ARC at 45% until I can get my hands on the audio! I was enjoying it, but it was sloooow. I found myself skimming though one of the POVs because I wanted to get back to the other POV.

I'm predicting I'll end up giving this a 3 or 3.5 stars, once I get around to finishing it. I'm loving the vibes but can't seem to get through it on my own.

Sarah Penner has done a beautiful job mixing magical realism with historical fiction. This is a dual timeline story that blends the lives of two women set in different centuries. One of the characters Haven is set in present day while Mari is a sea witch from the 1800s.

How their stories are connected is one that is very intriguing to read about.

This story is well written sentence structure wise, however; the elements of the mystery missed the mark with the ending being fairly anti-climactic. If you are someone who enjoys stories that are a lot of research and not as much action then this would be an appealing journey for you.
In particular I felt that Haven's storyline was much weaker than Mari's and I found myself really slowing the pace whenever the Pov's switched.
Mari's story was dynamic, heart-wrenching, and overall just so well laid out that Haven's just felt jarring in comparison for me personally.

Overall this book was quick, enjoyable, and the authors careful research is very apparent in her weaving of character story-lines with history.

Sarah Penner's written another chocolate mousse - rich ingredients with a frothy feel. I loved the intertwined tales of Mari and Haven, both women who are extremely educated and capable in their talents, but who also feel very deeply.

4.5 Stars!

I absolutely love Sarah Penner's ability to combine history and a bit of magic, and the way I get lost in her stories. Add in a little treasure hunt, murder, and the dual timelines and you have another captivating story.

I'll admit that this one is a bit of a slow burn. The initial premise and chapters had me intrigued, but it was the build of the story that kept me hooked. By the end I could not put it down and was so eager to figure out the fate of Mari and how Haven finds her own treasure. This was such a fun story and one that will stick out as a favorite this year!

Thank you to Park Row/Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.

I really love the duel timelines from this book! Sarah Penner does a great job at weaving stories together that excellently compliment each other. I was really invested in both the past and the present day timelines. This story was so perfectly atmospheric.

I also really loved the archeological aspect of the modern timeline. I felt like I was watching an episode of Expedition Unknown with Josh Gates.

I really enjoyed the premise of this book, but I felt like there were a couple pieces that didn't click. It also seemed to drag and linger in the middle. Why didn't Mal join up with Haven sooner if she was just waiting in Naples and her boss was so chill? I liked the flashbacks to Mari, but I wish there was a little more about what happened when all the Strega went to Venice. The ending seems a bit rushed. Overall I liked the scenery and the magical realism involved.

Penner's debut novel is still one of my favorite reads of all time. She is brilliant at weaving magic and history together into mysteries of the present day. While The Amalfi Curse is definitely a solid, entertaining read, it lacks the dark enchantment of The London Seance Society and the satisfying atmosphere of The Lost Apothecary. I didn't really connect with the characters here, but I LOVE the nautical mysteries, the archaeology, and the history that Penner so deftly crafts into her stories. Her careful research is apparent in her books and even though this wasn't my favorite of her novels, The Amalfi Curse is an enjoyable read I would recommend to anyone.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a complementary digital copy of The Amalfi Curse. All opinions here are my own.

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.