The Thirteenth Tale started a little slowly, but once it got going I could not put it down. It's full of twists and intrigue; great settings, fabulous characterisation, exceptional plot and the pace was good after the first couple of chapters. It's been compared to gothic ghost stoies, Jane Eyre and Turn of the Screw, but I don't think these are helpful comparisons, it needs to be read and enjoyed for it's own sake. 
 Deserves more than a four, but not quite a five star rating - but I'm feeling generous today! Again, looking at other reviews, it seems to be a book to love or hate, and I'm firmly in the "love-it" camp.