If The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield had to be described in one word, haunting is, without a doubt, the only adjective that blankets the novel. Told from the perspective of Margaret Lea, a biographer, the story takes us from the past to the present, chronicling the life of Vida Winter, a reclusive and ailing author. But don't let the plot fool you. The gothic novel is jam-packed with subtle suspense, hair-raising chills, and a mood and excitment that won't soon leave you.
Setterfield's writing is smooth and graceful, but taught with a dark elegance. As we learn of a set of feral twins, a disturbed family, a warm groundskeeper, and, most importantly, the sarcastic and cynical Vida Winter, we fall in love with the characters. The book captures you and has you awake late into the night.
Vida Winter, a famous novelist, is dying, and with the requested help of Margaret Lea, our protagonist, she wants for the first time to set the story of her mysterious life to paper. Her story is wrought with heartbreak, love, elegance and darkness. With a twist that will leave you reeling, and a plot like none you have read before, The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield is a fantastic read for anyone who loves to be lost in a novel. 9/10 stars.
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