Diane Setterfield's The Thirteenth Tale is praised for its compelling narrative, Gothic ambiance, and intricate storytelling. Readers applaud Setterfield's writing style and character depth. However, some critique its pacing and predictability. While adored by fans of literary fiction, it may not engage those seeking fast-paced action.

A reader who would enjoy The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield is likely an aficionado of gothic literature and intricate storytelling. Similar to fans of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights, this reader appreciates atmospheric settings, complex characters, and dark family secrets. The novel also appeals to those who enjoy literary mysteries akin to The Shadow of the Wind.

In The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield, amateur biographer Margaret Lea is invited by the reclusive author Vida Winter to record her life story. Margaret travels to Yorkshire, where Vida recounts her enigmatic past involving the mysterious Angelfield estate, twin sisters, hidden family secrets, and tragedy. As Margaret delves deeper, she uncovers truths that reshape her own understanding of family and identity. This book includes descriptions of murder, suicide, and sexual assault.

- Diane Setterfield's debut novel, The Thirteenth Tale, became an unexpected bestseller, reaching the top of the New York Times Bestseller list shortly after its release in 2006. 
- The novel has been translated into nearly 40 languages, allowing readers worldwide to enjoy its gothic and mysterious atmosphere. 
- The Thirteenth Tale was adapted into a television film by the BBC in 2013, starring Vanessa Redgrave and Olivia Colman.

Diane Setterfield

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Thirteenth Tale and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Thirteenth Tale Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Thirteenth Tale Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Beginnings”

Part 1, Chapters 1-7

The Thirteenth Tale Part 1, Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 8-15

The Thirteenth Tale Part 1, Chapters 8-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Middles”

Part 2, Chapters 16-22

The Thirteenth Tale Part 2, Chapters 16-22 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 23-29

The Thirteenth Tale Part 2, Chapters 23-29 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 30-36

The Thirteenth Tale Part 2, Chapters 30-36 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 37-44

The Thirteenth Tale Part 2, Chapters 37-44 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Endings”

Part 3, Chapters 45-48

The Thirteenth Tale Part 3, Chapters 45-48 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Beginnings”

Part 4, Chapters 49-52

The Thirteenth Tale Part 4, Chapters 49-52 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Thirteenth Tale Character Analysis

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Themes

The Thirteenth Tale Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Thirteenth Tale Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Thirteenth Tale Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Thirteenth Tale Essay Topics

The Thirteenth Tale

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Thirteenth Tale?

Reading Age

Book Details