A review by phantomgecko
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

challenging dark emotional mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I put off reading this for a long time because the cover is not very good. It doesn't evoke the right tone or genre. Which is too bad. I enjoyed the book tremendously.

In the middle I had my doubts. Was this really going anywhere? Why are these side characters being introduced? But it really comes together in a great way. Would recommend. 

The air of mystery came to somewhat of an anticlimax for me once Ms. Winter's actual identity was revealed, and the nature of the "ghost."  But, but, but the story of the fire reeled me back in. Possibly the best part being the question of the rescued twin's identity. Answering that question would have been a disappointment.

I would have been fine if the book had ended with Ms. Winter's death, tbh. The few chapters afterwards did answer questions and wrap up loose ends, but it wasn't necessary for me. The emotional weight of it all was exquisite. I love ambiguous endings and the feeling of non-closure.
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