Mrs. Poe

By: Lynn Cullen

Narrated by: Eliza Foss

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.

Catchy Title, but know what you are getting

First of all, this is Poe, so it is suspenseful, and that was exactly as it should be. But for that reason, it is hard to review this without giving anything away.

So, generically I will say I am glad I read it, I did learn quite a bit about Poe and some about Mrs. Poe, and I learned even more about Fanny Osgood. Well researched and written from a historical standpoint, and the number of famous literary persons who appear in the book is pretty astounding. Some romantic scenes felt trite, but didn't ruin the book.

Bottom line: There is plenty to discuss -- with someone who has read the book. If you are into Poe, you will enjoy this, but I just know that the title is a gimmick.

Mr. Poe

Although this historical fiction book is titled, Mrs. Poe, it is really more about Mr. Poe, and his involvement with Mrs. Osgood, another poet. Somewhat tedious at time but still an interesting look at the period.

Read if You Love A Great Book

Amazing story that has historic detail making it even better. This book is refreshing because it's complex and elegant.

Great surprise ending!

This book started slow for me. However, once you get a few chapters in you will become hooked!
I also found the information regarding women's rights and the superiority of men at the time to be very interesting and informative. The author did a good job on research.
Don't get the idea that this is a book about women's rights. It is not.
It is a love story, drama, and thriller all wrapped up into one.

As a fan of Edgar Allen Poe's writings, I was surprised to find out that what I always believed true about his life was not. The epilogue clarifies many misconceptions that I had.

Powerful...

Well read, well acted, and certainly food for thought. Is the Poe I have always been taught about really the Poe that was? Now, after reading this book and the author's findings, I am not so sure.