Tipping The Velvet by Sarah Waters

This novel is a vivid portrayal of a young woman's sexual and personal awakening in the late 19th century England. The protagonist, a seaside oyster girl, is captivated by a male impersonator and follows her to London, where she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Through a series of transformative experiences in the underbelly of Victorian society, she explores the complexities of love and identity, navigating through various roles and relationships that challenge the era's norms and her own understanding of desire. The narrative is a rich tapestry of music halls, drag culture, and the hidden queer subcultures of the time, offering a poignant exploration of gender and sexuality.

The 2392nd greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 240

Since this book was first published in 1998, there is a penalty of 38.4%. The age adjusted score is 147.84.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.