This mystery didn't feel like a typical mystery, but the plot is definitely shrouded with mystery, and has twists where you wouldn't expect them. As a writer myself, I have to applaud Setterfield on her ability to do this, without losing the interest of the reader.
The story takes place in modern times, but covers a historical side as well. The main character, Lea, is a biographer who receives an invitation to meet with the famous author. She's skeptical of the meeting, but agrees and then proceeds to help Vida Winters write her memoir. The "Thirteenth Tale," is the much awaited last book of Vida's and it's story becomes clear as you continue the book. Vida is an interesting character, and we get to know her quite a bit through the telling of her story. Lea, the biographer, wasn't my favorite character. She seemed to me, the stock main character, detective sleuth type. I didn't feel any of her qualities set her a part from the others like her, but she was a reliable narrator and wasn't offensive, so I read on.
I don't know that I would read this book again, but I would definitely read other books by this author. Her voice was reliable, and most of her characters engaging. Once I got about half way through, I couldn't put it down. It's slow to start, but as a faithful reader, I needed to give it an honest shot. I'm not sorry I did.
This is the perfect book for someone looking for a PG mystery. It's not scary, or jarring, and would be a great read for a high-schooler, or YA reader. It had a pretty good ending, which is important to me, so I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good read.
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