Review of 'The Cornish Witch' by Elena Collins
Release date: April 20th, 2025
Publisher: Boldwood Books
REVIEW
The Cornish Witch is another fascinating, atmospheric, paranormal mystery romance from Elena Collins. A dual timeline novel of secrets from both past and present. Our modern day heroine, Megan, is the one to put it all together and solve the centuries old mystery along with the current one by bringing two separated families together with their members. The stories unfold slowly giving us a chance to get to know the characters and understand the trials they face. There are some complex threads to unravel and the journey of both are intriguing and mesmerising. The two timelines cross over in the finale and we are given a wonderful conclusion to a dramatic and sometimes heartbreaking plot: though there is tragedy in both times, rectification is possible so that restoration can begin.
When Megan’s father receives a letter that divulges a secret from the past, he is quite shaken and not sure what to do. He eventually unloads his worries with his daughter with whom he shares a close relationship and she offers up a solution. She will go to the Cornish Village of St Mawgen Cove to unravel the mystery for him but under the guise of a surfing holiday. When she lands at the Cove and checks in at The Ships Inn, she is soon captivated by another mystery that surrounds the accommodation and St. Mawgen community. Yes, there are ghosts with bad odours, wailing and other strange sounds that go bump in the night. These paranormal activities certainly set her on edge but her desire to help those spirits left behind, drives her forward to solve a centuries old mystery. Elena gives us lots of clues, vivid imagery and accounts of events to keep us turning the pages as we move from one timeline to the next, and learn about the past villagers of the 1600s while keeping our eyes open on the present.
The second timeline set in 1625 delivers interesting characters such as Susanna, the villager’s choice herbalist-healer, a single parent who lives with her daughter Katel. The father of Katel is unaware of his offspring but as Katel grows up, many strange things begin to happen as she is drawn into the circle of a woman who may be a witch. Many misfortunes happen and the villagers are looking for someone to blame. And when the topic of witches arises, Susanna knows that her daughter’s association with Tedda (accused of using witchcraft to evil ends) means she is no longer safe. Quickly the world around her begins to crack as explosive accusations fly.
This is a story about broken hearts, secrets, misunderstandings, the strength of a mother’s love and how it may take centuries for healing to come. But I am happy to say the novel, though often sad, ends on a high note: with all mysteries solved, not only for those from the past but also for Megan and her family in the present. There’s even a new romance on the horizon for our modern day heroine!
For those who love Elena’s previous paranormal novels, you will enjoy this one as well. I was charmed by the characters and appreciated both timelines equally. I also loved how the past slides into the present ending in a grand finale. An enthralling, spellbinding dual timeline from a much loved author once again! 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a review copy.
