The Secrets of Saffron Hall

Booktrailer Review

A clever dual timeline story set in Tudor times. The story is one of a woman living in Norfolk with her new husband and growing saffron to make a living. Her husband is often away at Court – the court of Henry VIII no less. These are troubled times and it was fascinating to read about them from the point of view of a new wife, alone, scared for her husband in the lion’s den. We all know at least some of the history of what happens when Henry VIII starts to dissolve the monasteries and this really added to the sense of foreboding the novel had. I wanted to shout at Eleanor, the woman in the past timeline and try to warn her somehow. She was a determined and courageous character but I felt afraid for her. A certain historical figure entered the scene and the prickles on the back of my neck stood up as I knew what would come next. The author still managed to shock though – this is the story of two women after all and what they did, how they experienced events and that was a very good premise the author evoked and explored well.

Saffron Hall where Eleanor lives is the house that starts to reveal its secrets in the present day. Amber becomes linked to Eleanor’s past and she starts to discover what those secrets are. Part of this process is very painful for them and it’s very sad to read about. The ending, particularly poignant.

Reading about daily life for women at this time was very interesting and the information about Saffron very different! It all led to a novel that was detailed, easy flowing and a very good atmospheric read.