It was the longest of nights, when the strangest of things happened... the spell-binding novel from best-selling author Diane Setterfield will captivate readers in its multi-layered mystery. 'I was completely spellbound' - Ruth Hogan, author of The Keeper of Lost Things 'Setterfield is a master storyteller' - Madeline Miller, author of Circe Some say the river drowned her... Some say it brought her back to life On a dark midwinter's night in an ancient inn on the Thames, the regulars are entertaining themselves by telling stories when the door bursts open and in steps an injured stranger. In his arms is the drowned corpse of a child. Hours later, the dead girl stirs, takes a breath and returns to life. Is it a miracle? Is it magic? And who does the little girl belong to? An exquisitely crafted historical mystery brimming with folklore, suspense and romance, as well as with the urgent scientific curiosity of the Victorian age. ____________________ Praise for Diane Setterfield- 'An absolute feast of a book, which will keep you engrossed' RED magazine 'Brimming with folklore, intrigue and romance, this is a story to savour' Woman & Home 'Once Upon a River continues to demonstrate Setterfield's mastery of the Gothic genre in a way that will appeal to modern readers' The Independent Readers are captivated by Once Upon a River- ***** 'Pure escapism, a beautifully written story.' ***** 'It felt as comforting as the fantastical stories you read as a child yet with a darker edge.' ***** 'I was entranced from the beginning to the end.'