Search - Affinity

Though it takes a little while to get into the rhythm of the story, since it deals with one character's background interspersed with the main character's present story, it readily draws you into a very gripping "what'll happen next" plot. The dreary background only heightens the tension and mystery.

This was a very well-written book, as are all Sarah Waters' novel. And there is always a twist that is relatively surprising. I enjoyed the read but I do get a little frustrated with the fact that things never seem to turn out well for most of Waters' lead characters. It adds to the victorian noire feel of the piece, but I still like a happy ending once in a while.

Some people love her books, and I thought "Fingersmith" was excellent. On the other hand I read "Affinity" a few years ago and can't recall a thing about it. It made no impression on me at all.

Affinity, second in line behind Sarah Water's debut novel Tipping the Velvet, continues the same lesbian-Victorian England theme, with gothic splashes added in with exploration of the Spiritualist movement. The narrative is carried by the two protagonists across two different timelines. We are allowed to read the secret diary of Margaret Prior, who takes up a role as a Lady Visitor at Millbank Prison (where the Tate Gallery now stands) as part of her recovery from a suicide attempt. She becomes progressively drawn to Selina Dawes, a young spirit-medium charged with fraud and assault after a séance gone bad, who shares the events leading up to her imprisonment. Less overtly sexual than Tipping the Velvet, Affinity is much more subdued in tone. The first three parts forming much of the background of Margaret's home life and prison life seem dreary and go slowly, but towards a clever and suspenseful climax. As usual, Waters's prose transports us to the period, showing how the role of women is quite stifled. In summary, a good historical novel with gothic and lesbian overtones.

Excellent read. Story moves slowly with a nice payoff at the end. Read this one carefully so you do not miss anything.

Intriguing plot with well-portrayed characters.