Tipping the Velvet

by Sarah Waters
Tipping the Velvet cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 5948
  • Added: 2025-10-27
  • Updated: 2025-10-27
  • ISBN: 9780748129324
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2011-02-03
  • Reviews: 3

Tipping the Velvet is a captivating historical romance that follows the extraordinary life of Nan King. Starting as an oyster girl in Whitstable, Nan's journey takes her to the dazzling stages of Victorian London's music halls. Her story is one of self-discovery, passion, and adventure, as she transforms from a humble oyster girl to a celebrated performer and beyond. The novel is celebrated for its rich, sensuous descriptions and witty narrative, offering a vivid glimpse into the queer demi-monde of the 1890s./n/nWritten with startling power and a keen eye for detail, Tipping the Velvet is a multi-layered tale that blends romance, drama, and historical fiction. The novel's erotic and absorbing narrative has been praised for its ability to transport readers to a bygone era while exploring themes of identity, love, and societal norms. With its engaging characters and vivid settings, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and LGBTQ+ literature.

Reviews
Warm Days Will Never Cease · 2020-07-15
joyful 4.50

The writing is detailed and descriptive, making the book a joy to read. Nothing feels forced or out of place.

The reviewer was captivated by the detailed and descriptive writing style, which made the book a delight to read. The narrative flows seamlessly, with each element fitting perfectly into the story. The reviewer appreciated the authenticity and the immersive quality of the book, highlighting that nothing felt forced or out of place. The vivid descriptions and the rich, evocative language contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment of the reading experience.

Quick quotes

    Waters' writing is so detailed and descriptive and it makes the book a joy to read.

    Nothing feels forced or out of place.

    This book could easily be a classic.

Dora Reads · Dora · 2019-04-24
delightful 4.20

The book is awesome and highly enjoyable, though the reviewer prefers Affinity by the same author.

The reviewer found the book to be an awesome read, highlighting its sheer enjoyment value. They particularly appreciated the vivid descriptions and the engaging narrative. However, the reviewer mentioned that they would recommend Affinity by the same author over this book, suggesting that while Tipping the Velvet is excellent, there are other works by the author that might be even more captivating. The book's ability to captivate and entertain is evident, making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    This book is awesome!

    For sheer enjoyment value, I'd actually recommend Affinity, also by Sarah Waters, over Tipping the Velvet.

    The book is a delightful and engaging read.

The Guardian · Sarah Waters · 2018-01-20
nostalgic 4.00

The book is raw and unafraid to be corny, evoking a sense of nostalgia. It is a powerful and emotional read.

The author reflects on the book with a sense of nostalgia, appreciating its rawness and emotional depth. She notes that the book is unafraid to be corny and purple, which adds to its charm and authenticity. The reviewer highlights the powerful emotional impact of the story, making it a memorable and wistful read. The book's ability to evoke strong feelings and its unapologetic approach to storytelling are particularly commendable.

Quick quotes

    Still, I retain a huge affection for the book.

    In its very rawness, it makes me wistful.

    It is unafraid to be corny, unafraid to be purple.

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