Fingersmith

Sue Trinder is an orphan who grows up among petty thieves in London in 1862, and her fate is linked to another orphan growing up in a gloomy mansion. This novel is a 20th Anniversary Edition with beautiful endpapers, a ribbon, and a new afterword by the author.

Format: Hardback
Length: 560 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Shortlisted for the Orange Prize and the Booker Prize, Fingersmith is a captivating novel set in 1862 London. Orphaned at birth, Sue Trinder grows up among petty thieves, or "fingersmiths," under the rough but loving care of Mrs. Sucksby and her family. However, from the moment she draws her first breath, Sue's fate is intertwined with that of another orphan, growing up in a gloomy mansion not far away.

This beautiful hardback 20th Anniversary Edition of Fingersmith is a true treasure, featuring lovely endpapers, a ribbon, and a new afterword by the celebrated author. With its rich historical setting and intricate characters, Fingersmith remains one of Sarah Waters' most successful and beloved novels.

Born in London in 1966, Sarah Waters is a renowned author known for her intricate and compelling storytelling. She has written several award-winning novels, including Tipping the Velvet, Fingersmith, and The Night Watch. Waters' work often explores the social and cultural dynamics of Victorian England, with a particular focus on the lives of women and marginalized communities.

Fingersmith is a masterfully crafted tale that follows the lives of Sue Trinder and her fellow fingersmiths, who are skilled in the art of forgery and deception. Set against the backdrop of London's bustling streets and opulent mansions, the novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and the complexities of human relationships.

One of the standout features of Fingersmith is its intricate and well-developed characters. Sue, the protagonist, is a complex and relatable character who grows and evolves throughout the novel. She is orphaned at a young age and grows up in a challenging environment, but her resilience and determination help her to overcome her circumstances and achieve her goals.

Mrs. Sucksby, Sue's foster mother, is another memorable character. She is a tough and loving woman who takes Sue and her fellow fingersmiths under her wing, providing them with a sense of family and belonging. Mrs. Sucksby is a fierce protector of her charges, but she also shows them compassion and understanding, helping them to navigate the complexities of their lives.

The other fingersmiths in the novel are also well-developed and nuanced. They are a tight-knit group of individuals who rely on each other for support and survival. Each character has their own unique personality and motivations, and their interactions with Sue and each other add depth and complexity to the story.

Fingersmith is also notable for its vivid and evocative prose. Waters' writing is rich and descriptive, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world of the novel. The details of the setting, the clothing, and the food are vivid and evocative, creating a sense of authenticity and immersion.

The novel also explores themes of gender, class, and sexuality. Sue, a young woman of lower-class origins, faces discrimination and marginalization throughout her life. However, she is determined to rise above her circumstances and achieve her goals, using her skills as a fingersmith to her advantage.

The novel also delves into the complex relationship between Sue and her love interest, Richard. Richard is a wealthy and powerful man who is drawn to Sue's intelligence and resilience. However, their relationship is complicated by their social differences and the secrets that they keep from each other.

Fingersmith is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that continues to resonate with readers today. Its rich historical setting, intricate characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction or is interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships.

In conclusion, Fingersmith is a remarkable novel that has won the hearts and minds of readers worldwide. Sarah Waters' masterful storytelling and vivid prose create a rich and immersive experience that transports readers to 1862 London. With its complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and vivid setting, Fingersmith remains one of Sarah Waters' most celebrated and beloved novels. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a compelling and engaging story, Fingersmith is a must-read that will leave you thinking and feeling deeply.

Weight: 780g
Dimension: 218 x 140 x 46 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349017464