Books Like...
Set in Victorian Scotland, 'The Observations' by Jane Harris follows the story of Bessy, a maid with a mysterious past who takes up a position in a country manor house. Her employer, Arabella, exhibits strange behavior that hints at sinister secrets lurking beneath the surface. The novel is narrated by Bessy, whose unique voice brings humor and depth to the tale as she navigates through a blend of comedy, gothic horror, and social commentary. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a world of hidden meanings, secrets, and unexpected twists, making it a compelling Victorian thriller that delves into the roles of women during that era.
Bessy's character shines through as a delightful mix of sassiness, sweetness, cruelty, and vulnerability, making her a relatable and believable protagonist. The interactions between Bessy and Arabella, along with the quirky sayings and phrases used by Bessy, add a touch of humor and lightness to the otherwise dark and mysterious narrative. Despite the slow build-up and the lack of a big reveal towards the end, 'The Observations' stands out as a captivating read that keeps readers guessing and invested in the fates of the characters.
If you liked The Observations, here are the top 21 books to read next:
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Carnegie's Maid by Marie Benedict is a historical fiction novel set in the late 19th century, focusing on Clara Kelley, an Irish immigrant who assumes the role of a lady's maid to the mother of Andrew Carnegie due to a case of mistaken identity. The story delves into the challenges faced by immigrants, the disparities between the rich and the poor, and the relationships between servants and their employers. Through Clara's journey, the book explores the life of Andrew Carnegie and speculates on what may have influenced him to become one of the greatest philanthropists in history.
The narrative is told in diary format, following Clara's experiences as she navigates her new role, develops relationships with the Carnegie family, and ultimately influences Andrew Carnegie's philanthropic endeavors. The book blends historical facts with fiction to provide insights into the social classes, immigrant experiences, and the dynamics of power and wealth during the industrial age, offering a unique perspective on a renowned historical figure.
I shouldn’t be here. Cecelia or Eliza could have been swaying on this stinking vessel instead of me. It was their right—Eliza’s duty anyway, as the eldest daughter—to make the voyage and take the chan... - #2
Affinity by Sarah Waters is a dark and atmospheric novel set in Victorian London, focusing on the unlikely relationship between Margaret Prior, a spinster recovering from a nervous breakdown, and Selina Dawes, a convicted medium in Millbank prison. The story unfolds through diary entries, revealing the complex dynamics between the characters and the suspenseful plot that keeps readers engaged until the surprising ending. Waters' writing style captures the mood of the era and delves into themes of spiritualism, forbidden relationships, and societal constraints, creating a gripping and authentic narrative that explores themes of love, obsession, and deception.
Pa used to say that any piece of history might be made into a tale: it was only a question of deciding where the tale began, and where it ended. That, he said, was all his skill. And perhaps, after al... - #3
'Gillespie and I' by Jane Harris is a gripping tale narrated by an unreliable narrator, Harriet Baxter, set in Scotland in 1880 but recounted in 1933. The story revolves around Harriet's interactions with the Gillespie family, particularly with the talented artist Ned Gillespie. Through Harriet's narration, the author skillfully reveals the characters' complexities and keeps the reader engaged with unexpected twists and turns. is described as a page-turner that intricately weaves together mystery, deception, and psychological depth, making it a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on character development.
In the spring of 1888, it so happened that I moved from London to Glasgow, following the decease, at Christmas, of my aunt, whom I had nursed all through the autumn and early winter. During those cold... - #4
Set in Victorian England, "The Essex Serpent" by Sarah Perry follows the story of Cora Seaborne, a widow who is determined to forge her own path in a time of changing social norms. The novel intricately weaves together themes of superstition, religion, science, and women's rights, all set against the backdrop of the Victorian era. As Cora navigates her newfound freedom, she becomes entangled in a web of relationships with a diverse cast of characters, from the vicar and his wife to a surgeon and a Marxist assistant. The narrative unfolds in the Essex countryside, where rumors of a mysterious sea serpent add an element of suspense and intrigue to the story.
One o’clock on a dreary day and the time ball dropped at the Greenwich Observatory. There was ice on the prime meridian, and ice on the rigging of the broad-beamed barges down on the busy Thames. Skip... - #5
Set in 1870s London, "The Crimson Petal and the White" follows the lives of various characters navigating the stark realities of both poverty and wealth during the Victorian era. The story revolves around Sugar, a prostitute striving to improve her circumstances, and William, a complex character whose actions disappoint and intrigue readers. Michel Faber's writing style immerses readers in the sights and sounds of London, offering a detailed portrayal of the time period.
Watch your step. Keep your wits about you; you will need them. This city I am bringing you to is vast and intricate, and you have not been here before. You may imagine, from other stories you’ve read,... - #6
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters is a Victorian gothic novel filled with plot twists and turns, following the story of two orphan girls who unknowingly have intertwined lives. The book delves into themes of betrayal, ruined innocence, treachery, and madness, all set against the backdrop of Victorian London. Through multiple narrators and a complex plot structure, the story unfolds in a gripping manner, keeping readers guessing and engaged till the very end.
Waters' writing style in Fingersmith is described as evocative, rich in historical detail, and atmospheric, successfully transporting readers to the Victorian era. The novel intricately weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and intrigue, creating a dark and fiery tale laced with love, betrayal, and secrecy that is both compelling and immersive.
My name, in those days, was Susan Trinder. People called me Sue. I know the year I was born in, but for many years I did not know the date, and took my birthday at Christmas. I believe I am an orphan.... - #7
'The Woman in White' by Wilkie Collins is a Victorian thriller filled with mystery and suspense. The story follows Marian Halcombe and Walter Hartright as they try to unravel the secrets surrounding a mysterious woman in white who holds the key to saving their friend Laura Fairlie from dark forces seeking to claim her estate and her life. The novel is masterfully crafted with classic Victorian elements such as unexplained apparitions, exotic dangers, a larger-than-life villain, secret ancestries, and the looming threat of an asylum next door.
The plot of 'The Woman in White' unfolds through documents and diaries of the characters, slowly revealing a tale of societal position, inheritance, confused identities, secrets, and crimes. The narrative is rich with twists and turns, mistaken identities, and surprise revelations, keeping readers engaged in the investigation led by Walter Hartright after his eerie encounter with the woman in white. Overall, the book offers a strange and eerie mystery tale that is well worth reading, despite some dated aspects.
If the machinery of the Law could be depended on to fathom every case of suspicion, and to conduct every process of inquiry, with moderate assistance only from the lubricating influences of oil of gol... - #8
In "North and South" by Elizabeth Gaskell, the story follows Margaret Hale as she transitions from London society to the industrial town of Milton. The book explores the conflict between the needs of the working class and the factory owners during a strike, with a focus on the Industrial Revolution. The novel delves into themes of integrity, social commentary, and the growth of characters like Margaret and Mr. Thornton as they navigate societal expectations and personal beliefs. Gaskell's writing style is praised for its detailed depiction of life in the fictional town of Milton and its sympathetic portrayal of both the mill owners and the workers.
But, as Margaret half suspected, Edith had fallen asleep. She lay curled up on the sofa in the back drawing room in Harley Street, looking very lovely in her white muslin and blue ribbons. If Titania ... - #9
Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood is a historical fiction novel based on the true story of Grace Marks, a servant convicted of a double murder in 19th century Canada. The story is told through Grace's own words to a doctor interested in her case, exploring themes of class structure, the legal system, and the blurred lines between innocence and guilt. Atwood weaves the narrative with flashbacks, quilt block patterns, and other hints about women's lives during that time, creating a psychologically interesting and haunting story.
Out of the gravel there are peonies growing. They come up through the loose grey pebbles, their buds testing the air like snails’ eyes, then swelling and opening, huge dark-red flowers all shining and... - #10
'Tipping the Velvet' by Sarah Waters is a historical fiction novel set in the 1890s in London, following the story of Nancy Astley, a young oyster girl who falls in love with a male impersonator named Kitty Butler. The book explores Nancy's journey as she follows Kitty into the world of theaters, working as a dresser before becoming a performer herself. The novel delves into themes of lesbian love, gender roles, and self-discovery in Victorian England. The writing style is described as sensual, detailed, and engaging, providing a vivid picture of the lesbian society in the 18th century.
The plot of 'Tipping the Velvet' is divided into three acts, each peopled with vibrant characters and told in lushly written prose. The book captures the sexual growing pains and challenges faced by Nancy as she navigates the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations. While some readers found the protagonist to be flat or the plot soap-operatic, others praised the realistic characters, compelling storytelling, and historical accuracy in depicting London's lesbian society during that era.
Have you ever tasted a Whitstable oyster? If you have, you will remember it. Some quirk of the Kentish coastline makes Whitstable natives - as they are properly called - the largest and the juiciest,...