The Amalfi Curse By Sarah Penner Book Review
Ever wondered what happens when ancient witchcraft meets deep-sea treasure hunting on one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world? Well, that’s exactly the vibe you get in Sarah Penner’s The Amalfi Curse, a lush mix of historical fiction, magical realism, and mystery that takes you straight to the sun-drenched cliffs of Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
At its center, this novel follows two timelines with two compelling stories. In the present day, we follow Haven Ambrose, a determined nautical archaeologist leading a female team digging into centuries-old shipwrecks near Positano. But Haven has a personal mission too: uncovering the precious gemstones her late father discovered before his untimely death. Meanwhile, back in 1821, Mari DeLuca, the leader of a group of sea witches practicing stregheria, uses powerful magic to protect her fishing village from ruthless raiders. Through letters, personal struggles, and intertwined fates, Penner tells a story full of forbidden love, ancient sorcery, and a suspenseful treasure hunt, all set in a rich, atmospheric world.
What makes The Amalfi Curse stand out is Penner’s vivid, poetic writing that practically lets you smell the salty sea breeze and taste the Amalfi lemon zest. The author’s research really shines through, especially in Haven’s archaeology work, adding authenticity and depth to the treasure-hunting adventure. Plus, the magic drawn from Italian folklore adds a unique touch of mysticism that’s both subtle and enchanting. Readers have praised how the two timelines connect beautifully, with Mari’s 19th-century struggle against the greedy Mazza brothers and Haven’s present-day determination perfectly mirroring each other.
From the reviews, readers loved the strong, relatable women at the story’s core, Haven’s grit and Mari’s courage really hold the tale together. Many found the romance in Mari’s timeline touching, with realistic emotions that add to the story rather than overpower it. Some thought Haven’s romance was a bit rushed or less convincing, but the overall adventure, suspense, and magical elements kept people hooked. The pacing has been called uneven by a few, with slower, reflective moments balanced by bursts of thrilling action. Still, that mix gives the story a nice rhythm, pulling you deeper into both the magic and mystery.
If you’re a fan of books like Emilia Hart’s or Adrienne Young’s work, or just love stories that blend history, fantasy, and a bit of romance against stunning real-world backdrops, you’ll probably be captivated. But if magical realism isn’t your thing or you prefer a fast-paced thriller without layered timelines, this might feel a bit slow or scattered. Also, if you’re looking for heavy romance or intense witchcraft rituals, this book leans more into atmosphere and subtle magic than bold spellcasting.
In my opinion, The Amalfi Curse is one of those books that immerses you in an experience as much as a story, whether it’s the salty sea air, the tension between legacy and discovery, or the delicate balance between love and danger. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate strong female leads, historical settings, and a sprinkle of the supernatural without going overboard. Plus, the Amalfi Coast almost feels like its own character, so if you like travel escapism with your fiction, you’re in for a treat.
So, if you’re looking for a story that’s part treasure hunt, part witchy mystery, and part heartfelt romance, set in one of Italy’s most magical places, The Amalfi Curse might just be your next favorite read. If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out, and let me know what you thought if you’ve read it too!