Fingersmith

by Sarah Waters
Fingersmith cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Historical Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 606
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9780748129232
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2011-02-03
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99

Fingersmith by Sarah Waters is a gripping historical fiction novel set in 1862 London. Sue Trinder, an orphan raised by a family of petty thieves, finds her life inextricably linked to another orphan, Maud Lilly, who grows up in a gloomy mansion. The novel is praised for its intricate plot, atmospheric setting, and tender love story amidst a backdrop of fraud and insanity. /n/n The book is renowned for its cunning structure and intense pacing, making it a page-turning thriller that also delves into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of deception. Critics have lauded it as an unforgettable experience, blending elements of romance, suspense, and historical detail.

Reviews
Cannonball Read · Kimberleybear · 2021-03-11
atmospheric 4.00

The book's atmospheric setting and intricate plot are praised. The reviewer feels the damp and decay of the settings are exceptionally well-captured.

Kimberleybear's review emphasizes the exceptional atmosphere of 'Fingersmith,' noting how the damp and slow decay of the Lilly house and the claustrophobic heat in Mrs. Sucksby's London rooms are vividly captured. The reviewer finds the book's setting to be a character in itself, adding depth to the story. The intricate plot and the way the characters navigate their complex relationships are also highlighted. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to create a sense of place and time, making the Victorian era come alive. The overall impression is that 'Fingersmith' is a richly atmospheric and engaging read.

Quick quotes

    This is an exceptionally atmospheric book.

    You really feel the damp and slow decay of the Lilly house.

    The claustrophobic heat in Mrs. Sucksby's London rooms is vividly captured.

Samanne Elizabeth's Blog · Samanne Elizabeth · 2020-03-30
engaging 3.00

The character development and emotional connection between the characters were particularly engaging. The story's twist was well-executed and kept the reader hooked.

Samanne Elizabeth's review highlights the deep emotional connection between the characters, particularly Sue and Maud. The way Sue adapts to Maud's world is described as fun to watch, and their growing affection is palpable. The reviewer praises the book's ability to keep readers engaged with its twists and turns, making it a compelling read. The atmospheric setting and the intricate plot are also noted as standout features. However, the reviewer feels that the middle section of the book could have been tighter, but overall, it's a satisfying read.

Quick quotes

    The way she learned to live in the Lilly's world was fun to watch and I really felt her affection for Maud grow.

    The book's twist was well-executed and kept me hooked.

    The middle section could have been tighter, but the overall story is satisfying.

The Guardian · 2002-02-02
satisfying 4.50

The novel is described as long, dark, and twisted, with a satisfying conclusion. The reviewer praises Waters' ability to make the story feel both grand and intimate.

The Guardian's review describes 'Fingersmith' as a long, dark, and twisted novel that is ultimately satisfying. The reviewer commends Sarah Waters for her impressive ability to make the story feel both grand in scale and intimate in its character development. The atmospheric setting and the intricate plot are highlighted as key strengths. The reviewer also notes that the novel's conclusion is particularly satisfying, tying together the various threads of the story in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable. The reviewer's overall impression is that this is a fabulous piece of writing that stands out in the genre.

Quick quotes

    Long, dark, twisted and satisfying, it's a fabulous piece of writing.

    Waters's most impressive achievement is that she also makes it feel intimate.

    The novel's conclusion is particularly satisfying, tying together the various threads of the story.

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