Linda S. (Ladyslott) reviewed on 11/7/2007 + 113 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

The Thirteenth Tale is a wonderfully told modern gothic story, filled with all the elements of that genre: An aging mysterious woman, a young woman who has lived a sheltered life, an old house, family secrets, hints of sexual obsession, madness, a governess, a devastating fire and a ghost or two.

Vida Winter is a reclusive yet world renowned writer nearing the end of her life. For many years she has told wildly exotic tales of her life and upbringing, each more outrageous than the other, all without a grain of truth. When she reads an obscure biography written by Margaret Lea, Ms. Winter contracts with her to tell her life story. As Vida tells the story of her life, Margaret is struck by some parallels with her own life and secrets. As she sets out to learn the truth of Vida's life, she also must confront some painful truths of her own.

Ms. Setterfield has written a tale that is at times haunting and sad. Paying homage to some of the great Gothic tales of early years, and borrowing liberally from Jane Eyre, she tells a wonderful old fashioned tale with a surprising ending that is both shocking yet believable.

A great book for a long cold winter night.

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