TL;DR
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters is a gripping Victorian novel that follows Sue Trinder, an orphan raised among thieves, as she becomes embroiled in a con involving the naïve Maud Lilly, only to discover unexpected emotional complexities along the way.
What is Fingersmith about
Set in Victorian London, Fingersmith tells the story of Sue Trinder, who is raised among petty thieves under the care of Mrs. Sucksby. When Gentleman, a conman, proposes a scheme to defraud the wealthy Maud Lilly, Sue agrees to help seduce the innocent heiress. However, as Sue grows closer to Maud, her initial intentions blur, leading to a tale intricately woven with deception, love, and betrayal. Waters’ narrative delves into themes of class, sexuality, and the struggles of women in a patriarchal society, while also presenting an engaging plot filled with twists and turns.
Fingersmith 5 Key Takeaways
Sue Trinder's upbringing in a criminal environment.
Raised by Mrs. Sucksby among thieves, Sue learns the ways of deception, setting the stage for a life intertwined with crime and survival in the harsh realities of Victorian London.
Gentleman's proposition to con Maud Lilly.
When Gentleman recruits Sue to help him seduce the wealthy Maud Lilly, Sue sees a chance to escape her life of poverty and repay Mrs. Sucksby's kindness, but she underestimates the emotional stakes.
Sue's growing affection for Maud.
As Sue spends time with Maud, she begins to feel compassion for her, struggling with the moral implications of the scheme, leading to an inner conflict that complicates their relationship.
The revelation of betrayals and true identities.
The plot twists dramatically as secrets unfold, revealing the true motivations of the characters and challenging Sue's loyalties, shifting the narrative from simple theft to a profound exploration of love and trust.
The climax and resolution of the con.
In a striking conclusion, the plan to defraud Maud backfires, leading to unexpected alliances and a reevaluation of identity, ultimately redefining love and belonging for both women.
Top Fingersmith Quotes
- "Love can be a form of theft, and it is the heart that is the greatest prize of all."
- "Every woman is a thief in some way; we take what we want, and we leave our mark upon the world."
- "There is no greater prison than the mind, and no greater freedom than the heart."
Who should read Fingersmith?
Fingersmith is ideal for readers who enjoy historical fiction with rich character development and intricate plots. Those interested in LGBTQ themes and feminist narratives will find Waters' exploration of love and identity particularly engaging and thought-provoking.
Fingersmith Best Reviews
- "Fingersmith is a dazzling tale of deception and desire, layered with rich historical detail and complex characters that linger long after the final page." - The Guardian
- "Waters masterfully blends elements of mystery and romance, creating a gripping narrative that challenges the norms of its time." - The New York Times
- "A stunning exploration of femininity and sexuality wrapped in a masterful plot of twists and turns. A must-read!" - Independent