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Affinity. Sarah Waters. 1999. W. E. Howes Ltd. 2003. Recorded Books LLC, A Haights Cross Communications. Prince Frederick, MD
This was an audio book.
Book review by Jane
This dark Victorian story, which I had borrowed just in time for Halloween, was narrated very eloquently by Juanita McMahon. A not-so-young for her time, unmarried, privileged woman who had been ill at home for a couple of years sets out to perform charity at a nearby prison that housed women inmates. This part of the story in itself drew me in, but it became riveting as an inmate gradually brings Margaret into her world as a spiritual medium. It took me awhile to catch onto the fact that Margaret is very much a lesbian, partially because it is tastefully presented, and partially because I was not led to think of it by way of the story until later.

The book is written from the perspective of Margaret’s journal, and the journal of young Selena, as her powers of medium are exposed. This book would be a great book for discussion because I find there is so much I cannot write here without giving away the book. The twists and turns of Margaret’s life would give way to great discussion.

Apparently, Sarah Waters writes Victorian lesbian fiction, as there are other titles by her with that theme. I was not aware of this. I was attracted to this book because of the Victorian era female prison visiting, but found it to be tastefully written, and the story holds many surprises.

Jane.

 



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Affinity
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