I keep a list of all the books I read, and at the end of each year, I go back and highlight my favorites from that year. I read The Thirteenth Tale last year about this time, and it was one of my favorites of 2006.
This is a booklover’s book, and even more so for those who like the works of the Bronte sisters or Jane Austen. It takes place in England, though no time period is given, as far as I can remember. The main character, Margaret, is a biographer, and has been summoned to the remote home of the very old Vida Winter, England’s most acclaimed author, who is ill and wants to tell her story before she dies. So, The Thirteenth Tale is the tale of Vida Winter’s childhood, which is layered with secrets and intrigue and will keep you in suspense.
I won’t say anything more of the plot, but I feel confident that anyone who likes reading fiction will greatly enjoy The Thirteenth Tale. It’s available from the Orange County Library, which delivers, by the way. It’s how I get almost all my books!
December 4th, 2007 at 3:33 pm
I could be wrong, but after reading your description, it sure sounds like maybe you should have said “…anyone who is FEMALE and enjoys reading fiction…”
December 4th, 2007 at 3:49 pm
Michael,
I would say that more women than men would like this book, yes. But this *is* a blog for women, after all. :o)
December 4th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
Thanks for posting a comment Michael.
December 7th, 2007 at 11:47 pm
is this book appropriate for teenage girls who love Austen?
December 8th, 2007 at 9:30 am
It’s appropriate for teenagers, yes. It’s less of a romance and more of a mystery. I’d liken it most to Jane Eyre, even thought that’s not actually a mystery. I just started a book called Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict, which is about a modern LA woman waking up as a character in the Jane Austen world. I’m not sure that one’s appropriate for teenagers yet, though. So far, it reminds me of Bridget Jones’ Diary meets Mansfield Park.