A review by stellahadz
Tipping the Velvet by Sarah Waters

emotional slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I'm not usually a big historical fiction reader, but this was my book club's pick of the month and I'm always down to expand my literary horizons. 

The pacing of the book was slower than I would have liked; it took me almost 200 pages to really get into the story. I think there's also something about the Victorian-esque writing style that doesn't totally resonate with me -- I didn't feel like I could fully connect with any of the characters, and most of them were just downright unlikeable. (My copy was the 20th anniversary edition with an afterword by the author, and I'll just say I agree with what she has to say about Nancy!) 

I can see why this book is popular; it's well-written (I especially liked the setting descriptions and worldbuilding) and explores aspects of Victorian life that aren't always included in the literary canon. However, I think the genre and writing style simply weren't for me. 
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