I shall start at the beginning. Though of coarse, the beginning is never where you think it is

I shall start at the beginning. Though of coarse, the beginning is never where you think it is

"I shall start at the beginning. Though of course, the beginning is never where you think it is." These words, spoken by the character Margaret Lea in Diane Setterfield's novel "The Thirteenth Tale," encapsulate the essence of Setterfield's storytelling style. Setterfield is a master of weaving intricate narratives that challenge the reader's perceptions of time, truth, and reality.

In "The Thirteenth Tale," Setterfield tells the story of reclusive author Vida Winter, who enlists Margaret Lea to write her biography. As Margaret delves into Vida's past, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies that have shaped Vida's life and work. The novel is a testament to the power of storytelling to reveal hidden truths and to connect individuals across time and space.

Setterfield's use of non-linear storytelling and unreliable narrators adds layers of complexity to her work. By starting at the beginning, only to reveal that the true beginning lies elsewhere, Setterfield challenges the reader to question their assumptions and to look beyond the surface of the story. In doing so, she invites the reader to engage with the text on a deeper level, to uncover the hidden meanings and connections that lie beneath the surface.

Setterfield's writing is rich in detail and atmosphere, evoking a sense of mystery and intrigue that keeps the reader captivated from beginning to end. Her characters are complex and multi-dimensional, grappling with their own inner demons and struggles as they navigate the twists and turns of Setterfield's intricate plots.

In "The Thirteenth Tale," Setterfield explores themes of identity, memory, and the power of storytelling to shape our understanding of the world. Through her characters' journeys of self-discovery and redemption, Setterfield reminds us that the past is never truly behind us, but rather a part of who we are and who we will become.