Books Like...
'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.
If you liked Tipping the Velvet, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save: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.... - #2
Save:'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.
The lunch hour in the coworkers’ cafeteria at Frankenberg's had reached its peak. There was no room left at any of the long tables, and more and more people were arriving to wait back of the wooden ba... - #3
Save:Set in post-WWI England, 'The Paying Guests' by Sarah Waters follows Frances Wrey and her widowed mother as they decide to take in lodgers for income. The married couple, Leonard and Lilian Barber, bring modernity and intrigue into the genteel household, leading to a curious relationship between Frances and Lilian. The story unfolds with shocking secrets, a murder, and a court case, creating a highly original and imaginative plot that delves into the complexities of relationships and societal norms in the 1920s.
The Barbers had said they would arrive by three. It was like waiting to begin a journey, Frances thought. She and her mother had spent the morning watching the clock, unable to relax. At half-past two... - #4
Save:In 'The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics' by Olivia Waite, readers are taken on a journey through Regency England where a young astronomer, Lucy, falls for the wealthy widowed countess, Catherine. Together, they learn to trust each other, pursue science, and advocate for women's rights. The book delves into themes of love, friendship, feminism, and the struggles faced by women in male-dominated fields, all while exploring a tender and genuine romance between the two main characters.
Miss Priscilla Carmichael made a lovely bride. Her dress of champagne satin caught all the light and haloed her, making her blond curls gleam and her eyes look as blue as a summer sky. The Honorable H... - #5
Save:'The Night Watch' by Sarah Waters is a novel set in post-World War II London, focusing on the interconnected lives of four Londoners - three women and a young man with a troubled past. The book delves into their secrets, relationships, and struggles, moving backwards in time to reveal the events that shaped them during wartime. Waters skillfully portrays the emotional impact of the characters' experiences, particularly highlighting women's relationships and the aftermath of the Blitz.
So this, said Kay to herself, is the sort of person you’ve become: a person whose clocks and wrist-watches have stopped, and who tells the time, instead, by the particular kind of cripple arriving at ... - #6
Save:"Last Night at the Telegraph Club" by Malinda Lo is a historical fiction novel set in 1950s San Francisco, focusing on the life of Lily Hu, a Chinese American girl navigating her identity and sexuality. Lily finds herself drawn to the underground lesbian community at the Telegraph Club, where she forms a deep connection with Kath. The book beautifully captures the complexities of Lily's experiences as she grapples with societal expectations, racism, and her burgeoning queer identity, all against the backdrop of the Red Scare and the Cold War era. Through vivid descriptions and intricate character development, the author paints a poignant coming-of-age story that delves into themes of love, acceptance, and self-discovery.
The narrative of "Last Night at the Telegraph Club" is richly layered with historical events and cultural nuances, providing readers with a compelling exploration of Lily's journey towards embracing her true self amidst a time of societal constraints and prejudices. Lo's writing style masterfully weaves together elements of romance, historical context, and personal growth, creating a captivating tale that immerses readers in the vibrant setting of 1950s San Francisco and the challenges faced by Lily as she navigates her identity in a world that seeks to confine her.
It was Friday night in the middle of the dinner rush, and the Eastern Pearl was almost full, but Lily knew immediately who Shirley was talking about. The red paper lanterns hanging overhead shed a war... - #7
Save:"Rubyfruit Jungle" by Rita Mae Brown is a groundbreaking novel that follows the story of Molly Bolt, a strong and determined protagonist navigating her way through the challenges of growing up as a lesbian in America during the 1950s and 1960s. The book explores Molly's journey of self-discovery, sexual awakening, and her defiance against societal norms and expectations. The writing style is described as bawdy, moving, and humorous, with a focus on Molly's experiences in coming out and trying to establish herself as an independent woman. The plot delves into Molly's relationships, her aspirations, and her refusal to conform to traditional gender roles.
No one remembers her beginnings. Mothers and aunts tell us about infancy and early childhood, hoping we won’t forget the past when they had total control over our lives and secretly praying that becau... - #8
Save: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... - #9
Save:'Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit' by Jeanette Winterson is a semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the life of a young girl, Jeanette, growing up in an evangelical community in England during the 1960s. The story follows Jeanette's coming of age, her struggles with her own sexuality conflicting with her church's beliefs, and her journey towards self-discovery. Winterson's writing style is a mix of poetry, humor, and drama, interweaving fairy tales and fantasy elements to add depth to the narrative.
The book explores themes of family expectations, identity development, repression, and the challenges of coming of age in a conservative religious environment. Winterson's storytelling is described as witty, observant, and emotionally tough, capturing the complexities of Jeanette's upbringing and her journey towards self-acceptance.
Like most people I lived for a long time with my mother and father. My father liked to watch the wrestling, my mother liked to wrestle; it didn’t matter what. She was in the white corner and that was ... - #10
Save:'Stone Butch Blues' by Leslie Feinberg is a semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the struggle of the main character, a butch individual, as they navigate their identity in a society that is often hostile towards non-conforming gender roles. The book portrays the protagonist's journey from early teens through adulthood, highlighting the challenges faced within wider culture and the lesbian community. Despite the hardships and marginalization depicted, the story also showcases the creation of meaningful relationships amidst adversity.
Feinberg's writing style is described as raw, emotional, and evocative, offering readers a poignant glimpse into a world of pain, resilience, and self-discovery. The narrative touches on themes of gender identity, societal expectations, and the complexities of human relationships, providing a powerful exploration of the protagonist's experiences and the broader queer community during a tumultuous era.
I’m lying on my bed tonight missing you, my eyes all swollen, hot tears running down my face. There’s a fierce summer lightning storm raging outside. Tonight I walked down streets looking for you in e...
