Perfect for fans of Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens, The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah, and Sal by Mik Kitson, with its celebration of the natural world, its misunderstood central characters living on the outside of society's norms, their survival in the wilderness, and the ultimate fight for justice.

Before the Swallows Come Back is a story of love, found family, and redemption that will break your heart and have it soaring time and time again as you sit on the edge of your seat desperately hoping.

Tommy struggles with people, with communicating, preferring solitude, drifting off with nature. He is protected by his Tinker family who keep to the old ways. A life of quiet seclusion under canvas is all he knows.

Charlotte cares for her sickly father. She meets Tommy by the riverside and an unexpected friendship develops. Over the years it becomes something more, something crucial to both of them. But when tragedy strikes each family they are torn apart.

Charlotte is sent far away.

Tommy might have done something very bad.

What people are saying about Before the Swallows Come Back

“It is impossible to avoid falling under the spell of Before the Swallows Come Back.”

“A wonderful story highlighting the beauty of nature. And of those who understand the importance of keeping wild places where nature can thrive. It is at the same time a love story. What’s not to love?”

“I will read it again and again...”

“One of the best books I’ve ever read, beautifully written, a lovely heartwarming story, one to remain in my memory for ever.”

“So well written, emotional, beauty of nature, good, evil, mystery, and human connections. Wow, absolutely loved this read. I highly recommend this exceptional book.”

“Like forest bathing on a stiflingly hot day...”

Fiona Curnow