A review by wildpasserine
Affinity by Sarah Waters

dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

So, I just finished this book. I AM DEAD. Brb, going through the five stages of grief. My heart has been ripped from my body, and my soul is aching from both the genius and horribleness of it all. Rest in peace to me.
Sad for my girl Peggy; rest in peace to her too.
Damn this book; so good—but BRUTAL.
Also, WTF, Ruth!? I knew something was up during the creepy hairbrush scene, but I didn’t think it would be as sinister as it was in the end. “Remember who’s girl you are.” CHILLS.

Sarah Waters has truly outdone herself with this one. The emotional depth of Affinity is both a blessing and a curse. From the very first page, Waters draws you into the lives of her characters with such intimacy and intensity that you can’t help but become deeply invested in their fates. The relationships, the heartaches, the moments of fleeting joy—all of it feels so real, so raw. The intricate character development leaves you feeling like you’ve lost a dear friend by the end.

Waters’ portrayal of longing, despair, and the search for connection is masterful. The narrative is a powerful exploration of human emotion and doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the human experience. The way she captures the essence of Victorian-era societal constraints while delving into the character’s internal struggles is both haunting and beautiful. The disturbing atmosphere of the Milbank prison is going to stay with me for a while, too.

Another aspect that struck me was the book’s depiction of mental illness. The portrayal of depression and emotional turmoil was incredibly relatable, even in a modern-day context. The way the characters grapple with their inner demons and societal pressures resonated deeply with me. It’s a testament to Waters’ skill that she can make the struggles of a bygone era feel so immediate and personal.

If you're ready to have your soul crushed Victorian Gothic style (in the best way possible), this book is for you.  🖤✌️
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