Mrs. Poe: Target Book Club Edition

By Lynn Cullen

A richly imagined work inspired by literature’s most haunting love triangle, this gothic romance brings Edgar Allan Poe, his devoted wife, and his brilliant mistress to life in a dark tale of obsession, betrayal, and literary ambition to which Sara Gruen says, “Mrs. Poe had my heart racing...Don't miss it!” New York City, 1845. Gaslit streets and crowded avenues pulse with opportunity and danger as Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven” takes the literary world by storm. For Frances Osgood, a gifted but struggling poet and mother of two abandoned by her husband, Poe’s success feels impossibly out of reach. When she is invited to meet the infamous writer at an intimate literary gathering, she hopes only for professional encouragement—never expecting to be drawn into his dangerous orbit. Though initially unimpressed by Poe’s work, Frances is captivated by his intellect, charm, and the startling revelation that he admires her poetry. What begins as flirtation soon deepens into a passionate, illicit affair. But the situation grows increasingly unsettling when Poe’s fragile wife, Virginia, insists on befriending Frances, weaving the three into a web of intimacy, secrecy, and fear. As Frances becomes trapped between desire and dread, she begins to sense that Virginia’s devotion may mask something far more frightening. Haunting, suspenseful, and emotionally charged, this novel reimagines one of literature’s most infamous love triangles, exploring the cost of genius, the peril of obsession, and the fine line between romance and ruin.

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Published Apr 1, 2014

320 pages

Average rating: 6.12

17 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

L
LadyAmandaW
6/10 stars
The book is good. I enjoyed reading it but I will admit that when I got to the end of the book I couldn't help but think..."it is about time". I love suspense but at the same time I don't like to feel that it is being dragged out. I read this for my Mom! Book club and I will admit I was glad to read it because it is a fascinating take on Francis Osgood and her life. Many times I couldn't help but say to myself, "if I lived during that time I would not let a man get away with treating me like that."
kbeers22
kbeers22
6/10 stars
This historical fiction novel gave me a whole new appreciation for Edgar Poe and his wife. Coming into this book, I did not know about this love affair and I now need to know more! This novel kept my attention from the very beginning and I found myself on the edge of my seat!

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