Unraveling Dark Secrets: Why "Ring of Salt" by Betsy Cornwell Will Haunt You Long After the Last Page
This interweaving of place and survival is one of the book’s greatest achievements. Ireland isn’t just a backdrop for Cornwell’s story — it’s a character, a refuge, and a teacher. The land offers her something her marriage couldn’t: steadiness, beauty, and a sense of belonging. As she slowly transforms the knitting factory from ruin to home, we see her transforming too, reclaiming her life one strawberry, one stone, one decision at a time.
Cornwell is honest about what it takes to leave, and what comes after. She shows us the messy, non-linear reality of healing: setbacks, small victories, moments of doubt, the gradual accumulation of courage that comes with time. She acknowledges the people who helped — including the virtual Friday Tea group, borne out of her time at Smith College. I was reminded that while leaving takes tremendous individual strength, it also requires community.
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