Cryptic crossword clue
First of novels, he replies, failing as a gripping tale, say? 10

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word PREHENSILE

I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
P
R
E
H
E
N
S
I
L
E


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The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does PREHENSILE mean?

PREHENSILE adjective
  1. Able to take hold of and clasp objects; adapted for grasping especially by wrapping around an object.

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