39 pages • 1 hour read
The Aspern Papers
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Book Brief
180
Novella • Fiction
Venice, Italy • 1880s
1888
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Aspern Papers follows an unnamed American editor and fervent admirer of the deceased poet Jeffrey Aspern. He travels to Venice to obtain letters thought to be held by Juliana Bordereau, Aspern's former lover, who resides with her niece, Tita. Pretending interest in renting rooms in their house, he hopes to access the elusive Aspern Papers while navigating complex relationships and moral dilemmas.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Contemplative
Melancholic
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
6,297 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Henry James's The Aspern Papers captivates with intricate prose and a compelling exploration of obsession and deception. Critics laud its atmospheric Venice setting and complex characters but note the slow pace may deter some readers. Overall, it's a richly layered novella for those who appreciate literary depth.
Who Should Read The Aspern Papers?
Readers who enjoy psychological intrigue and literary mysteries will find The Aspern Papers by Henry James captivating. Similar to F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby and Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca, it appeals to those who relish complex characters and themes of obsession, secrecy, and manipulation.
6,297 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
180
Novella • Fiction
Venice, Italy • 1880s
1888
Adult
18+ years
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