This has an interesting cast of characters that carry the story along a nice pace and create depth to the story. Great plot and I found myself filling an afternoon reading this in one sitting as I found it so enjoyable. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest , unbiased review. 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Another absolutely brilliant book from Clare Marchant. Covering dual timelines with Sarah and Anne two strong main characters this is intriguing, full of mystery and totally absorbing. In 1571 during the reign of Elizabeth 1 Anne finds herself being presented at court after the very manipulative Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk, becomes her guardian and marries her off to his eldest son Philip. She blames him for the death of her brother George and when she finds out he has his own secrets she sees a way to make him pay. In 2025 Sarah reluctantly agrees to visit her Godmother at her large Tudor house in Norfolk where her memories of her last summer in 2004 haunt her. The house holds many secrets and ghosts and when Sarah finds a mysterious book of poetry she becomes determined to transcribe it and find out who the author is. Will her visit and the book of poetry help her to reconcile herself with the events of that summer and lay the ghosts to rest? This is atmospheric and gripping with characters that have depth and believability. I loved the historical references and how it flowed. I’d highly recommend reading Clare’s books if you like historical fiction that has dual timelines and strong characters. Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this dual timeline story.

Both Anne in the past and Sarah in the present have lost a sibling and in the present Sarah finds a book that was written by Anne, she learns what happened to her brother as well as what Anne’s life was like back in 1571. She is also still trying to get over the loss of her sister.

The story has you turning the pages as you follow the lives of Anne and Sarah and what happens in their lives.

The story was well written.

I highly recommend this book.

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this eCopy to review

"The Shadow on the Bridge" by Clare Marchant is a hauntingly beautiful historical novel that seamlessly blends the past and present. This dual-timeline story captivated me from the very first page and left me utterly spellbound.

The novel follows Sarah in the present day and Anne Howard in 1571. Sarah, struggling with the loss of her sibling, is summoned by her godmother to a remote Norfolk estate. The estate is shrouded in mystery, with a bridge said to be haunted by the ghost of a little boy. As Sarah delves into the estate's history, she uncovers a hidden chamber containing a mysterious book of poems that connects her to Anne's story.

In the 16th century, Anne Howard, the newly-made Countess of Arundel, is grappling with the loss of her brother and the manipulative control of her father-in-law, Thomas Howard. Anne suspects Thomas of being involved in her brother's death and is determined to uncover the truth. Her journey is fraught with danger and intrigue, as she navigates the treacherous waters of the Tudor court.

Clare Marchant's writing is evocative and atmospheric, transporting the reader to both the eerie Norfolk estate and the bustling Tudor court. The characters are richly drawn, and their struggles and triumphs are deeply moving. The novel's central theme of loss and the quest for justice is beautifully explored, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read.

The suspenseful plot kept me on the edge of my seat, and the seamless transitions between the two timelines added to the novel's allure. Marchant's meticulous research and attention to detail bring the historical setting to life, while the modern-day storyline is equally compelling.

Overall, "The Shadow on the Bridge" is a masterful blend of history, mystery, and emotion. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction and anyone who loves a gripping, atmospheric read

Thankyou to NetGalley, the publishers and the author, for the opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of The Shadow On The Bridge in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I came across this author quite by accident and have to admit, I am really glad I did.
Set in the present as well as 1571, this dual timeline keeps you hanging by your nails as you slowly discover what really happened to the only brother of Anne Howard through a mysterious book found in the present by Sarah, who is herself still trying to overcome her own loss.
This book was beautifully written with a well thought out storyline and well developed characters.
I would definitely recommend this book

I wasn't sure about this one as both timelines drove me mad the way they were presented. I think for me this book could have worked better if some parts of the older storyline were shorter excerpts included with the present one. I don't think it weighted to what was given in this story, I feel distracted going back and forth from one timeline to the other. However, I kept reading and I ended up enjoying it enough. The end felt a bit rushed to me, though.

I thought this was another really good book by this author. The story is told with dual timelines. Both stories were interesting and good. The women characters are strong. There’s a bit of a mystery to solve with hints of ghostly shadows. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

This was a dual-timeline story. The first timeline took place in present day. where Sarah’s summoned by her godmother to remote Norfolk. She has designated that the house should go to Sarah when she passes, but Sarah has bad memories from there and wants no part of it. When she was young, her sister drowned in the river there, and Sarah has never gotten over it. The other timeline takes place in 1571, where Anne Howard lives in that same home in Norfolk. Her little brother dies a tragic death, and her stepfather marries her off to his eldest son, so he can have control of her fortune. Knowing that her stepfather caused his death, Anne vows to avenge George's death, if it is the last thing she does.

I have only read one other book by this author, and I had really enjoyed that one, so I was excited to read this one as well. Although this one was good, it wasn't as good as the previous book I read. I enjoyed the 1571 timeline a lot more than I did the present day timeline. Sarah just felt one-dimensional to me. I did really get invested in Anne's story, however, and was interested to see how it would play out. Overall, this is a solid 4 out of 5.

Firstly thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advanced copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.

I absolutely loved Clare’s previous book The House of the Witch and so was looking forward to reading this one . I really enjoyed it - the dual timeline the similarities between the characters both in Tudor times and recent times were really engaging . Love everything Tudor so this did keep me interested throughout the short chapters and Clare’s writing is so easy to digest . Another great read 4 ⭐️

I would like to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me the privilege of reading this book.

This book was something different. This is a story within a story. I want to start by saying I did enjoy this book. It's an okay book, and I know what I say following seems like a lot of criticism but truthfully it's not. If this book is picked up as an intriguing book to read and not for the other author comparisons you will 100% enjoy this. However if you pick up this book for the comparison to both Phillipa Gregory and Alison Weirs writing, the only thing you will mostly enjoy is the one story within and the bringing to light of a lost historical figure. That is why I give this the rating I do because it is nice to have a real historical figure brought back to life (more at the end of the book could have been said about her but it's fine) so because can find out more.

However because I requested this book based on the comparison to well known historical writers this is where it pales. There are many mildly slight historical inaccurate wordings in the one half of this book, they can be overlooked but it is noticable. Most of the parts of Anne are loosely accurate I've checked, the building itself not so, which was sorely disappointing. This would be right in-between both other mentioned authors, slightly more historically accurate than Phillipa Gregorys books can be, only slightly, and less fully historically immersive as Alison Weir can be with hers. The downfall though is the writing. The writings on both characters seems a little disjointed and in regards to Sarah seems rushed in her relationships but really miniscule in towards what she actually has to do in the same time period. I get the purpose of the whole story, the other secret story and the poems however it would have been so much more fascinating for more (despite the building being fictitious) references to items she could have found all over (actually feeling like she accomplished some part of that aspect) instead of a brief overview of two rooms and really just two discoveries. It would have really helped to tie the two worlds in more.

Overall this was a good book and I really appreciate the opportunity to be able to have read it and I know many will enjoy it. Thank you so very much again for the privilege it's been!

The theme of this book is the guilt one might feel if a sibling dies and maybe you could have prevented it. Set in two timelines, both Anne and Sarah lose a younger sibling, one to murder and one to negligence. Anne's story of how she helps expose the Duke of Norfolk's treachery is fascinating, and the suspense of her daring makes for entertaining reading. I enjoyed Sarah and Cordelia's relationship and Sarah's solving of the long ago mystery. The way the two storylines intersected was really well done. Lovers of historical fiction will relish this book. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood books for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Excellent dual-time narrative set against the backdrop of the Elizabethan court and a quiet former monastic building in Norfolk - and I love that Clare has used a real-life legend about George Dacre and the nuns' bridges in Thetford so well.

Both the present day and the historical tale are based around girls who were helpless in the face of a tragedy and then come to terms with what happened as adults. Anne Howard wants to avenge her brother George's death and bring her father-in-law to justice, and Sarah needs to come to terms with her grief when she returns to help her terminally-ill godmother.

Sarah's aware of the legends and also feels that the house is haunted; when she finds a mysterious handwritten book of poetry, it helps her unlock the past and solve a mystery.

In the sixteenth century, Anne discovers the plots of the Duke of Howard and her friendship with Lady Walsingham helps her to bring him to justice.

Very atmospheric; the history is spot on; and you really feel for both Sarah and Anne as they come to terms with their grief. Both strands are well balanced and interwoven - a thoroughly enjoyable read.

"The Shadow on the Bridge" by Clare Marchant is a fantastic 5-star read! I absolutely love Clare Marchant's books, and this one did not disappoint.

Told from two different perspectives, the story follows Anne, a young girl whose journey unfolds between 1569 and 1572, and Sarah, whose life is explored in two timelines—first as a young girl in 2004 and later as an adult in 2025. Anne’s story begins at Barnhamcross Hall, a converted convent in Norfolk, while both of Sarah’s timelines are also set at this location.

Marchant has crafted a well-researched and compelling narrative about family, revenge, and guilt. I highly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction, particularly those interested in the Elizabethan era.

Thanks to Boldwood Books, Clare Marchant, and NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this ARC and share my honest review.

The Shadow on the Bridge by Clare Marchant is an enthralling masterpiece that seamlessly weaves together past and present in a gripping dual timeline narrative. This historical mystery, with a touch of the paranormal, is a testament to Marchant's exceptional storytelling prowess.

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Norfolk, the novel follows two compelling protagonists: Sarah in the present day and Anne Howard in the 16th century. Both women are bound by their shared experiences of loss and their quest for justice. Sarah's return to her godmother's Tudor house stirs up haunting memories and unresolved grief, while Anne's journey is driven by a desire to avenge her brother's death.

Marchant's meticulous research and vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of Tudor England, making the historical elements of the story come alive. The emotional depth of the characters, particularly their struggles with guilt and the pursuit of closure, resonates deeply. The discovery of a mysterious book of poems serves as a poignant link between the two timelines, adding layers of intrigue and suspense.

The novel's pacing is impeccable, with each chapter leaving readers eager to uncover more. The interplay between the two timelines is masterfully handled, creating a rich tapestry of secrets, betrayals, and redemption. Marchant's ability to blend historical fiction with a ghostly mystery is truly remarkable, making The Shadow on the Bridge a must-read for fans of Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir.

In summary, The Shadow on the Bridge is a beautifully written, hauntingly atmospheric novel that will stay with readers long after the final page. Clare Marchant has crafted a story that is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, a true testament to the enduring power of love and the human spirit.

I enjoyed this book but not as much as The House of the Witch. In some ways the two books seemed very similar. Clare Marchant obviously researches her subject and makes history interesting. This is from someone who has never been a big history fan. I really liked Sarah’s godmother Cordelia and enjoyed their relationship.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

What an amazing story! The Shadow on the Bridge by Clare Marchant is an exceptionally researched gripping dual timeline historical mystery with a dash of paranormal. I enjoyed both past and present offerings equally and loved how the two worlds reflect each other and cross over in a ghostly sense.

My heart was heavily invested in these two women’s lives who try desperately to sort out issues behind the guilt they have carried far too long. They each felt responsible because they could not prevent what happened to their siblings. Each believing they had failed at protecting their little brother and sister. Essentially it is a story about heartbreak—and its after effects. Everything that happens in the plot is primarily inspired by devastating loss in one form or another. The valuable lesson is learning to let go of guilt—when an incident is not your fault. And in the case of the historical thread: avenging a murder will not make the person feel better when justice is accomplished. It is an empty victory in many respects as nothing will bring back the loved one—no matter whose fault it was or wasn’t.

This novel follows two artistic women with a family connection yet centuries apart. Poet Anne is observed from 1569 – 1572 and Sarah 2004 and 2025.

Sarah’s ill godmother calls her back to the large Tudor house in Norfolk. This visit is important for many reasons but one is to help her solve an age old mystery. Although Sarah is hesitant to go back due to an incident that happened in her childhood, she returns as she loves her godmother. But a tragic event that scarred her heart and damaged her confidence, prevented her from moving forward and having a normal life. Will she find healing and face what has caused her so much pain? Once she arrives, the memories come flooding back. Her parents are nasty people and their domestic issues affected Sarah deeply. As she crosses the bridges where the two rivers meet, she is reminded of not only the loss of her sister and her terrible experience with her parents but also the ghost of a little boy who lived there many years before.

Wind back time to the same location in Norfolk but in the 1500s when Countess Anne Howard has also lost her little brother. She is sent to London by her horrible father-in-law Thomas Howard who she believes has caused her brother’s death for gain. But there are other secrets and hidden activities of Thomas that will come to light— some that involve the crown. As Anne seeks revenge by using a code, she hopes her efforts will contribute to his fall. But how will all this affect her in the end? Will her courage make her feel invincible? Will her drive for revenge set her free?

For Sarah, this journey back to the Tudor House stirs up some serious issues and confrontations with her parents. But Sarah tries to focus on her purpose being there. When she finds a poetry book hidden on her godmother’s property, it leads her down many intriguing roads. Uncovering the truth of the past could liberate her and allow for a better future. So will Sarah get her new beginning, where the two rivers meet?

This is a riveting and rollicking read filled with mystery and intrigue. I became deeply immersed in the story quickly and was sustained by Clare Marchant’s excellent writing and story-telling skills. Being a poet myself, I loved the use of poetry in the plot! The female lead characters of both timelines are very strong and the lessons they learn are priceless. There are many nuggets of wisdom I wish I could quote but don’t want to give anything away. Get a copy of this fabulous novel that will capture your heart, cause a few tears and have you nodding your head in agreement. You will be enthralled, satisfied and uplifted by the time you turn the last page. A lasting story of historical significance. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC.

A mansion and two women separated by centuries. When, in the present day, Sarah finds a small book of poems, she sets out to translate it as a way of getting away from her problems and the tragedy that has weighed on her since she was a child. During the Elizabethan era, the author of the poems, Anne, has also suffered losses and seeks to avenge them with the help of her writing.
Throughout the novel, the voices of two courageous women alternate, and despite the struggles they face, they manage to overcome the obstacles that they and others put in their way.
A novel of history, mystery and a spark of romance that makes for an interesting and inspiring read.

The Shadow on the Bridge by Clare Marchant. Boldwood Books, 2025.

I’ve already “shelved” this wonderful book with my Susanna Kearsley collection, and other favourites by Nicola Cornick, Barbara Erskine, Elaine Fox, Elizabeth Goudge, Kate Morton, Rosamond Pilcher, and Mary Stewart where fascinating homes are almost as important as the characters who live in them.

This book tells two stories, that of poet Anne (1569-1572) and illustrator Sarah (2004 & 2025), each of whom as children suffered a very similar family tragedy at Barnhamcross Hall, a converted convent in Norfolk. When Anne is forced to marry at twelve, she is moved to London’s Howard Hall, another dissolved religious establishment similar to Barnhamcross Hall with “shadowy, monastic passages [that lead] further and further into the distance”. Sarah returns when, after her twenty-one-year absence, her godmother Cordelia begs her to come back to, among other things, try to solve a family maxim, a riddle handed down to house owners unsolved for nearly five hundred years.

This book is outstandingly well written with respect to plot, character development and consistency, and writing style.
I did miss reading historical notes at the end of this book, though it was quick work to find most of the characters I had not heard of before on Wikipedia.

This is the first book I’ve read by Clare Marchant, a bestselling author of dual timeline historical fiction. I will be looking for others right away.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of The Shadow on the Bridge free via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #TheShadowontheBridge #NetGalley