A review by camijupiter
Carol by Patricia Highsmith

adventurous challenging reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

One of my favourite discoveries of the year. An absolute literary masterpiece, and a visionary and timeless commentary on personal growth, societal pressure and love. Patricia Highsmith’s novel traces truly a delightful and inspiring story of two women in love in a time when homosexuality was not only frowned upon, but completely inexistant in fictional works.
 Therese and Carol are deeply attaching characters with such complex, yet realistic, issues complicating and surrounding the blossoming of their romance. I cannot recommend this book enough. As a bisexual woman, I felt so empowered and delighted to read a story that was not only credible and complex,

but also gave two queer characters a happy ending.

Thank you Patricia! I love you. 

---

Content Warnings

Moderate: Homophobia

The denial and persecution of both Carol and Therese by authoritative male figures in the book is deeply unsettling, despite reflecting mindsets that were unfortunately widespread at the time (and sadly still are). Some comments made by these characters can trigger my fellow queer people, especially those who are still discovering their identity and sexual orientation.