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Type: fiction

Status: I recommend

Author: Michel Faber

Tags: women british england victorian 19th_century prostitutes

Description: The first of a trifecta of historical novels about English prostitutes that I review, The CrimsonThe first of a trifecta of historical novels about English prostitutes that I review, The Crimson Petal and the White is probably also the most entertaining. Written in somewhat ironic fashion, the book is a little long-winded (and just long) but highly recommended in its subject. The whole sordid sub-genre can become grim and tiresome after awhile and I suggest only reading one at a time...if it must be one, let it be this one. Interesting vignettes include some of a cathouse and some on a 19th-century perfumery. Recommended. --Erin E. Betters...

2006-07-10