Reviews

This was one of the most unique books I've ever read. In all of the lesbian fiction I have consumed, this book rises well above the rest thanks to its authenticity and inclusion of underrepresented experiences. Nan is a treasure, an authentic and genuine representation of what lesbian life truly entails, from self-discovery to love and everything in between. Kitty is real, a poster child for the ways hatred, homophobia, and heteronormativity can only cause destruction, including (and most often) the destruction of oneself. Their relationship and dynamic perfectly illustrate the struggle to choose between safety and love, and how love often cannot win when we are not safe. I felt for both of them, and struggle to think of what I would have done had I been in their shoes.

This real, complex, beautifully written portrayal of living as a lesbian in Victorian Era England is something I will cherish for the rest of my life. Never have I come across a book as real as this one. Everything about the lesbian experience, from unique relationships with gender to compulsory heterosexuality was included with such skillful intent. This is the lesbian literature we need more of.

jkrahtjen's review against another edition

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challenging slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

agussne's review against another edition

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3.0

I loved the development of the story, the setting and characters. However, when it comes to the lesbian sex scenes it made me feel uncomfortable, it seems to be written by and for men, which coming from a novel written by a woman left me feeling discouraged and couldn't fully enjoy the reading. I found the book frustrating, and even more so because it's very well written and interesting, just not for me

amylikestoread's review against another edition

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2.0

2.5*

jimbriel's review against another edition

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adventurous medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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