'The Price of Salt', also known as 'Carol', by Patricia Highsmith is a 1952 romance novel set in the early 50s. The story follows a lesbian love affair between two women, Carol and Therese. The book is praised for its delicate and beautifully written portrayal of the relationship, which is considered one of the first mainstream literary lesbian novels. It captures the stifling gender roles of the 50s and the struggles faced by the characters in pursuing their forbidden love.
The book is known for its bittersweet and beautiful depiction of a 1950s gay romance. It explores themes of love, desire, and societal expectations, offering a tender and emotional narrative that resonates with readers. Despite being written decades ago, the book's powerfully written and delicate style still feels fresh and relevant, making it a timeless classic in LGBTQ literature.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Triggers include themes of societal oppression related to LGBTQ+ identities, instances of obsession within relationships, and the emotional toll of hiding one's sexual orientation.
Has Romance?
The novel is centered on the romantic relationship between the two main characters, Therese and Carol, making romance a prominent aspect.
From The Publisher:
This novel, arguably Patricia Highsmith's finest, was first published in 1952 under the pseudonym Clare Morgan. The Price of Salt tells the riveting story of Therese Belivet, a stage designer trapped in a department-store day job, whose salvation arrives one day in the form of Carol Aird, an alluring suburban housewife in the throes of a divorce.
They fall in love and set out across the United States, pursued by a private investigator who eventually blackmails Carol into a choice between her daughter and her lover.
Ratings (21)
Incredible (5) | |
Loved It (13) | |
Liked It (2) | |
It Was OK (1) |
Reader Stats (77):
Read It (21) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (33) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (21) |
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The Price of Salt?
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