Tipping the Velvet
28 journalers for this copy...
Here we are in Minneapolis, where I bought this book used. Who knows what crazy adventures she had before I took her home with me ...
I just started reading this before bed last night and already I'm 100 pages in. It's completely captivating.This book will be shared with the participants listed below and then... who knows?
1. Sign up for this BookRay by sending me a Private Message. New members will be added to the end of the list.
2. When the person above you on the list finishes the book, they will send you a Private Message to ask for your mailing address. If you are too busy to read the book in the next few weeks, let me know and I will move you down on the list.
3. Make a journal entry when you receive the book to let us know you got it.
4. When you finish the book, make another journal entry telling us what you thought. Pictures, favorite quotes, and other embellishments are encouraged.
5. Send a Private Message to the person after you on the bookray list and request their mailing address. If the person is going away on vacation or doesn't answer within 7 days, please PM me so I can move the missing person down the list, and then... repeat step 5.
6. Send the book on its way.
It's that easy!
Participants:
1. Flashgirl (MN, USA)
2. mrsordonez (MO, USA)
3. lightwavz (MI, USA)
4. sweetsangria (OR, USA)
5. noraneptune (USA)
6. woodsroy (New Brunswick, CA)
7. talkland (UK)
8. kangaroo (UK)
9. Lukutoukka (Finland)
10. symphonicca (Austria)
11. grover3d (WV, USA)
12. MarthaMinx (NC, USA)
13. jenvince (CA, USA)
14. weeblet (VA, USA)
15. midwinter (AZ, USA)
16. EyeFeminie (TX, USA)
17. guinaveve (OH, USA)
Bookray complete! (That is, the first leg of this book's journey. New bookray participants see entry further down for instructions.)
Side note: For anyone who hasn't read it yet, you may want to join swan-scot's Fingersmith BookRing.
When I heard this book repeatedly described as a "bawdy Victorian romp," I expected something much more fast-paced. Instead this book began at quite a leisurely pace, with all the exquisite poetry of covert glances and held breath. What reader couldn't relate to an infatuation from afar? And while it developed, as promised, into a raunchy, explicit story of sexual self-discovery, the story retained a slowness and fascination with detail. But this story wasn't only about self-discovery of a sexual nature. It was, in essence, a coming-of-age tale. The novel seemed carefully calculated to bring Nance through each of the various lesbian subcultures of the time, and with each transition Nance develops her integrity and personal power, emerging at the end as a mature, self-realized woman.I haven't read any of Waters' other books, but I hear they are even better. I am anxious to get my hands on the next one. I only hope this book doesn't reflect poorly for those who already read and loved Fingersmith!
The picture shows some friends and I letting down our hair after getting into the spirit of our local "male impersonator" show (longing, of course, for a glance from one of the performers...)
Mailed to mrsordonez.
I just got the book in the mail today and I CAN'T WAIT to begin! Now, if I could only find a way to get out of work so that I could spend more hours of the day reading.... By the way, I have a feeling that bflybabe would be interested in this ray, you might want to PM her and ask if she wants to be on the end of the list... Oh, and I absolutely LOVE the "bookray" graphic in the previous journal entry. Very cool. Thanks so much, FlashGirl, for this opportunity! I just finished a book, so this is going to the top of my TBR pile.
Oh my goodness! I absolutely loved this book, and could hardly put it down. I apologize for hanging on to it for so long, but I had a major move (left my home of 13 years) and time was short for reading for a while. Now that I'm kind of back into my life again, (there's still boxes everywhere) I dedicated this weekend to finishing this jewel of a novel. I hate to comment much openly, as I don't want to spoil the book for future readers, so I'll make a spoiler posting. Highlight the blank area with your mouse to read the following text.**********spoiler**********
Hopefully, I'm doing a good job of hiding this from future readers. Previous ones will probably be able to read this in the email, however, as it doesn't "read" html. I must say that I was flabberghasted at the end of the first part when Nancy left Kitty. I fully expected them to be together for the whole novel, and was so so so disappointed at first that they were not. Their love was innocent and new to them, and felt much like some of my own experiences. I am very glad, however, that Nancy was able to mature and accept herself as a "tom" and grow out of her "schoolgirl crush" with Kitty into a full-fledged mutually loving relationship. I must admit I relished the scenes with Diana because it seemed so, what's the word?, naughty... I was sad to find that none of the book really delved into the picture on the cover (which would have been a REAL vaudeville show!). I am always one to look for the meaning of the title in the book, and this one didn't show up until about page 416. By then I had already guessed it.
I was really angry that Nancy had to be a "gay boy" on the streets in order to earn an income. Whether as a male or female, she was always made to bend to the male desire and power that hung constantly over her. I was glad when she met Diana and freed herself from that, however demeaning her role thus became in that household. I didn't fully understand Zena's blaming of Nancy for the loss of her job, when Zena was also a willing (if not seduced) participant. I was very happy that at the end of this book, Nancy hadn't had only a handful of sexual and romantic encounters, but rather quite a few. Unfortunately, it doesn't always seem that it was so easy to find so many "toms" out and about. It certainly hasn't been easy for me. Although I rather dislike England and rather dislike the turn-of-the-century time period, for some reason, neither one bothered me here.
I guess my only complaint was that the affair with Flo seemed rushed and forced. It was like Nancy had run out of options about 2/3 through the book, so Waters just dragged up a former acquaintance to make a happy ending. I wished that Nancy hadn't ended up with someone she considered "plain" but rather with her heart ablaze as it had been with Kitty.
I guess that's all I'll comment for now. I'll be getting the book moving again as soon as possible.
Just received minutes ago... thanks for the surprise, mrsordonez! (that spoiler posting is REALLY cool! Great idea!) This book is going on the heels of "Nervous Conditions" (the bookring). I just finished "Niagara Falls All Over Again" by Elizabeth McCracken about vaudeville which had some interesting sexual twists hidden in its plot. Me? I'm just a plain old 'straight but not narrow' girl who can't wait to dig into this book and see how the wild girls live! THEN I will watch the BBC version. I'll journal when done...
Just finished this one up a few minutes ago... What to say, what to say... I have so many comments and I truly rode the emotional rollercoaster on this one. I was so entranced by Part 1 and disappointed by its ending (although I didn't blame Nancy at all...). Part 2 left me feeling used up and discarded. If the djinn's wish were offered to me, I would've chosen in the opposite direction, especially given the kind hospitality and gentle nature of Mrs. Milne and Gracie (that was the biggest disappointment of the book for me). Part 3 left me feeling human again and had me singing Billy Bragg songs. I was very happy with the ending. As flashgirl said, this was a novel about growing up, about realizing and standing up for who you are and about not having to hide. Overall, I loved it! I think I will buy a copy to send to my friends db and ss who are celebrating their second anniversary of partnership. ss is herself an east end girl!Thanks for the bookray, flashgirl! To stay true to the nature of the journal entries here, I wanted to say as a side note that my favorite 'girl in drag' movie is Twelfth Night... Imogen Stubbs and Helena Bonham-Carter are both on my "If I Were A Lesbian..." List. Which brings up a strange point to me. I have a list, I admit it. Most of my straight female friends have a list. But any male friends? No way! Why is this? Why don't men just admit that handsome men such as Rupert Everett are just downright sexy?! Ah, I suppose we will never know!
I'll send this along to sweetsangria very, very quickly... I know that this one has a long journey ahead!
Journal Entry 8 by lightwavz at to another BookCrosser in -- BOOKRAY, -- By post or by hand/ in person -- USA on Tuesday, September 16, 2003
Released on Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at to another BookCrosser in bookray, postal release USA.
Sent to sweetsangria, next in line on the bookray! Enjoy!
Sent to sweetsangria, next in line on the bookray! Enjoy!
got this in the mail today....I will try to start reading it soon. looks like a definate change of pace from what I've been reading lately. we'll see....
I didn't love this book and I didn't hate it. The first part was probably my favorite of the 3. The second part was depressing, and the third part didn't seem realistic. I didn't like how Nancy stopped talking to her family, and even when she was at her lowest, she didn't consider going home to whitstable. There were a few times that I considered giving up and not finishing the book, but I decided to finish it and overall I'm glad I did.
Release planned for Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at to fellow bookcrosser in postal release, postal release USA.
going to Noraneptune next
going to Noraneptune next
Journal Entry 12 by noraneptune from Washington, District of Columbia USA on Wednesday, October 29, 2003
received from sweetsangria today, as part of a bookring. thank you! looking forward to it.
Journal Entry 13 by noraneptune from Washington, District of Columbia USA on Sunday, December 14, 2003
Queen Victoria eat your heart out! Ooh la la, if she only knew what the lusty lesbians of her empire were up to... I highly enjoyed this book. It really takes you to the time and place. Waters' ability to describe intricate details of the period was amazing and her knowledge about the life of a music hall performer was remarkable. Her writing style is quick and sharp, and full of wonderfully quotable material, such as my favorite: "...it was rather marvelous to feel my lusts all on the rise again - to have my tommish parts all greased and purring, like an engine with a flame set to the coals." ;)
It really was a great coming-of-age story, and wow, what a way to do it. I thought Waters did a good job of keeping Nancy's character believeable despite her rather fantastic adventures, although I do agree with mrsordonez that the ending seemed a little too pat. I also wished Nancy had ended up with someone else, one who could fan her flames rather than just keep her coals warm.
The book was mailed to woodsroy on Dec. 12. Thanks, Flashgirl, for starting the bookring.
It really was a great coming-of-age story, and wow, what a way to do it. I thought Waters did a good job of keeping Nancy's character believeable despite her rather fantastic adventures, although I do agree with mrsordonez that the ending seemed a little too pat. I also wished Nancy had ended up with someone else, one who could fan her flames rather than just keep her coals warm.
The book was mailed to woodsroy on Dec. 12. Thanks, Flashgirl, for starting the bookring.
Just received this book in the mail today. I wasn't even expecting it, so it's quite a pleasant surprise. I do have 3 other books to read before this one though, so it might be a couple months before I get to it. But I'll try to hurry as much as possible.
Well, I just finished reading the book.... I'm not sure what to say. I really enjoy Waters' writing style - main reason why I asked to be part of the bookring. As a straight girl, I can't say that I related to Nancy all that well, although I was proud of her for standing up for herself, especially in the end, when a certain someone reappears. A lot of people have said that they were disappointed with Nancy's relationship with Flo, but I wasn't. I thought that relationship was much healthier than all the other ones, where Nancy's wants and desires seemed to come in second to her lover's. In the other relationships, she seemed to erase herself and live solely to bring her lover pleasure. Whereas with Flo, she seemed to be able to love, and yet remain her own person - there was some give & take with Flo, as with the others, Nancy seemed to be the one doing most of the giving.
I didn't understand how she could simply cut herself from her family like that though - not even sending a letter letting them know she was alive and doing OK. They were a loving bunch, and except for Alice, didn't cast her out. She just seemed to assume that they would if they knew, but she didn't give them the chance to even try to understand her...
All in all, a good novel. Not great, but good enough that it's worth reading.
I didn't understand how she could simply cut herself from her family like that though - not even sending a letter letting them know she was alive and doing OK. They were a loving bunch, and except for Alice, didn't cast her out. She just seemed to assume that they would if they knew, but she didn't give them the chance to even try to understand her...
All in all, a good novel. Not great, but good enough that it's worth reading.
Released on Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at Sent to fellow bookcrosser in East Sussex, England United Kingdom.
Put the book in the mail today for talkland. I could only afford surface mail, so it might take a few weeks to make the journey. Enjoy!
Put the book in the mail today for talkland. I could only afford surface mail, so it might take a few weeks to make the journey. Enjoy!
Arrived this morning and I can't wait to get stuck in.
I enjoyed the book a lot but must admit that 'Fingersmith' which I read before this is much better. The first third was about Nancy's infatuation with Kitty from when she first set eyes on her at the theatre to the conclusion of their relationship, both personal and professional. The second third is pretty bleak and seedy in that Nancy is just a sexual object and the third is where the lessons is learned in her previous adventures see her though to a happy ending.
Though the lesbian sex is fairly explicit it isn't just literary porn in that it explores a girl's coming of age and exceptance for what she is and what she wants and needs. Others have expressed how unbelievable that Nancy cut herself off from her family, however I don't as I have experience myself how easily people can be dropped especially when life is going well or badly.
Though the lesbian sex is fairly explicit it isn't just literary porn in that it explores a girl's coming of age and exceptance for what she is and what she wants and needs. Others have expressed how unbelievable that Nancy cut herself off from her family, however I don't as I have experience myself how easily people can be dropped especially when life is going well or badly.
Released on Monday, May 24, 2004 at the post office in Eastbourne, East Sussex, England, in Controlled Releases.
Was waiting for me when I got home from Edinburgh today.
I have a slight backlog of ring / ray books to read first (the entire No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, for starters - oops - I knew I shouldn't have gone away!), but I look forward to this one!
I have a slight backlog of ring / ray books to read first (the entire No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, for starters - oops - I knew I shouldn't have gone away!), but I look forward to this one!
I actually read this a few weeks ago. I'm still waiting for the next person's address, hence delay in journalling!
Really enjoyed it, definitely an improvement on Affinity which (while good) is the only other Sarah Waters book I had read previously. Now looking forward to reading Fingersmith, especially as having watched the BBC (? was it?) drama of Tipping the Velvet, the story was familiar already! The TV series is a very faithful adaptation though, despite Nancy having the most grating voice ever.
Really enjoyed it, definitely an improvement on Affinity which (while good) is the only other Sarah Waters book I had read previously. Now looking forward to reading Fingersmith, especially as having watched the BBC (? was it?) drama of Tipping the Velvet, the story was familiar already! The TV series is a very faithful adaptation though, despite Nancy having the most grating voice ever.
I think it makes more sense for me to send this to Luku.. in Finland, rather than across the world to Australia only for it to come back to Europe again.
I haven't heard from the ring owner yet though, but I'm already feeling bad enough about holding onto this for a month! I'll give it a fortnight and if I haven't heard anything, will send it to Finland for it to go to Australia and then back to Canada and the States after that. Hope this is ok.
Edit: 23 July
Left for Finland today.
I haven't heard from the ring owner yet though, but I'm already feeling bad enough about holding onto this for a month! I'll give it a fortnight and if I haven't heard anything, will send it to Finland for it to go to Australia and then back to Canada and the States after that. Hope this is ok.
Edit: 23 July
Left for Finland today.
Journal Entry 23 by Lukutoukka from Tampere, Pirkanmaa / Birkaland Finland on Wednesday, July 28, 2004
I received the book today. Thanks, Kangaroo and Flashgirl! I have some other reads, too, but I start reading this as soon as I can. :)
Journal Entry 24 by Lukutoukka from Tampere, Pirkanmaa / Birkaland Finland on Friday, September 3, 2004
The book was good. I'm a straight girl myself, but I think love and feelings are basically same with all people, no matter who they are or whom they love, so it wasn't so difficult to relate to the characters. :) It was interesting to read how Nancy found herself and also to get a new kind of picture of the Victorian London and Great Britain.
Now the book is ready to continue its journey, as soon as I get the address of the next participant.
Now the book is ready to continue its journey, as soon as I get the address of the next participant.
Journal Entry 25 by Lukutoukka from Tampere, Pirkanmaa / Birkaland Finland on Saturday, September 4, 2004
Symphonicca said she's moving. I'm going to wait until she knows her new address. :)
Journal Entry 26 by Lukutoukka from Tampere, Pirkanmaa / Birkaland Finland on Thursday, September 16, 2004
I received Symphonicca's address. She'll get the book soon! :)
Journal Entry 27 by Lukutoukka from Tampere, Pirkanmaa / Birkaland Finland on Monday, October 4, 2004
On its way to next person.
Hey there! I just received this well worn and well-travelled book in the mail yesterday! Am just finishing up another bookring at the moment ( "Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon"), and then will start on this book. I am excited to read it, as I recently read "Fingersmith" by the same author and LOVED it! Will journal more once I have started reading--- thanks for passing it along!
Wow! I am roaring through this book. I am staying up way too late at night reading this book---- enjoying the unfolding of the story and the characters, relishing the wonderful attention to detail and the breath-taking awakenings in the narrative. I have also been surprised by the huge shifts that happen in the story, and yet how subtly and 'naturally' they happen. So you are in one frame of mind when you pick the book up, and are in a completely different place when you put it down a few hours later.The homey-ness and pungency of the oyster-shucking life, the comfort (and subsequent magic) of the theatre, with its burning lamps and smoke and greasepaint. The tentative longing and burst of love--- All wonderful images! (there are more, but i don't want to spoil it for future readers....) :)
I do have to say that, although I am liking this book a ton, i can't help but compare it to the other Sarah Waters book I have read. On that point, I notice that the writing, while wonderful and captivating and all of that good stuff, isn't as good as in "Fingersmith", which came later. However, this is just a testament to her improving as a writer, and what a strong foundational talent Waters has!
Anyway, I will continue on my journey through the backstreets of London, and will journal more when I am done. Good good GOOD book! Am very glad I got a chance to read it!
I really enjoyed this book! **Spoiler**
There is a musical called "Aspects of Love", and this book felt a little bit like the story in that musical, in that it explored a lot of different kinds of loving (and often the pain associated with that kind of love when things go sour).
Nancy's platonic and comfortable love for her sister and her family (as well as for her 'host' family when she got back on her feet after the break-up), the passionate and deep (and haunting) love between kitty and nancy (as well as flo and Lillian, one could argue), the 'love' of convenience between Kitty and Walter (and one could also say between Nancy and Zena), the imbalanced, destructive and purchased love between Diana and Nancy, the similarly commodified 'love' between Nancy and her tricks, and, as cheezy as it sounds, the eventual love that develops in nancy for herself. If she didn't respect and love herself, i don't think she could have made the choice to stay with flo--- going back with kitty would have been too easy.
Some people who read this book thought the love she had for Flo wasn't as exciting as that of kitty, and i do understand the feeling. It wasn't was whirl-wind or roller-coaster-ish. If you think back to your first love, something of them will always be with you. But I felt like the love between flo and nancy was REAL, in a way that the relationship with kitty never was (and perhaps never could be). Nancy was finally in a place where she could have a real relationship and be okay with it in public, and with herself, and i just don't think kitty was there, or would ever be there.
Anyway, all this to say i really enjoyed the book. It made me think a lot (obviously), and the juicy parts were a nice diversion from the more tragic parts of the story (which were also nice, in their own way--- so well written!)
I will for sure be looking for more Sarah Waters books (i believe she has another one called 'Affinity'... I will have to try to find it!) Thanks, flashgirl, for starting the ring! Very glad i got an opportunity to get my hands on this one! :)
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Sent to grover3d on Oct. 22nd--- enjoy!
It's here and it's looking......well loved! I'll get to it soon!
Wow. EXCELLENT book - beutifully written, fantastic characters and one that was difficult to put down.
For me the book brought to mind THE CRIMSON PETAL AND THE WHITE which I read earlier this year - frank discussions of sexuality and character before the backdrop of late 19th century London, but this book was richer and didn't feel like a chore (which CRIMSON was, at times). I hope that its subject matter (dealt with frankly and not at all lewdly) does not keep it from the wider audience it deserves. I'll definitely be looking for more from Waters, and thanks so much for sharing!
For me the book brought to mind THE CRIMSON PETAL AND THE WHITE which I read earlier this year - frank discussions of sexuality and character before the backdrop of late 19th century London, but this book was richer and didn't feel like a chore (which CRIMSON was, at times). I hope that its subject matter (dealt with frankly and not at all lewdly) does not keep it from the wider audience it deserves. I'll definitely be looking for more from Waters, and thanks so much for sharing!
Received this book last week, although the crazy bustle of the holidays kept me from journaling it's arrival until now. I'm already intrigued by the journal entries before mine, and the obvious well-worn, and well-loved appearance of the book. Will journal more soon...thanks for sharing!
OH MY GOODNESS!! It has finally happened to me...I thought I mailed a bookring, and I find it on one of my (too) many bookshelves! I am so very sorry to hold up such a great ring.
I remember the book was wonderfully descriptive, and really showed Nan growing, and coming into a broader understanding of herself. I'll have to add more Sarah Waters to my list, after reading comments of her others books!
Sorry again for my embarassing mistake! This book is too good not to continue on its way...despite the delay. :)
I remember the book was wonderfully descriptive, and really showed Nan growing, and coming into a broader understanding of herself. I'll have to add more Sarah Waters to my list, after reading comments of her others books!
Sorry again for my embarassing mistake! This book is too good not to continue on its way...despite the delay. :)
It's here! Will get to this soon! :)
I'm going to pass this on without finishing it. I had a hard time staying focused (I think I'm a little too prude for the subject matter). *blushes*
This is in the mail today.
This is in the mail today.
i *really* liked this one. it gave me a feeling of immersion that i rarely get from a book. it also bucked up my vocabulary a bit ;)thanks for sharing, and i'll mail next week!
**mailed 6/22**
Just popping in to say the book is here, and I've got two others ahead of it, but they're going quickly. I should be able to start this in a couple of days, and will journal again once I've finished. I've heard *so* much about this book, and I can't wait to read it for myself :)
I am so glad I finally had a chance to read this book! I was a little intimidated by the size of the book, but quickly found that the words just fly by. Once I started, I could hardly put it down. The first part is definitely my favorite - Nan's the everygirl, off to a grand adventure. After things go awry with Kitty, the book kind of went awry for me. Similarly, the sudden happy ending in the last 5 or 10 pages took me by surprise. Waters was so good at making Nan struggle for years - suddenly happiness falls in her lap. Still, I'm a sucker for a happy ending, and I like to think everything came up roses for the proud Tom :)
Off to EyeFeminie later today...
Off to EyeFeminie later today...
Finally getting back on track with this! The book spent some time stranded in Beaumont, Tx following the Hurricane Rita evacuation. I have it now and will soon finish and pass it along......
Part of o book ray. I have finally finished (so very sorry for the delay!!) and now waiting on the next recipient's address...
Thanks all for sending this on to me. I am eager to read it after reading some of the journal entries here. This book is still in very readable condition, but looks "much loved." I am going to have to do some minor taping to keep the covers from coming off, but give me a soft paged copy like this anyday over a stiff new one. I will update with a new journal entry when I am finished, then send it on to the last participant in the ray.
I would like to add a pic to my journal entry like many others have, but my laptop is broken and all of the pics are on that hard drive. Fortunately I (actually hubby, he is the computer geek here) will be able to retreive all of my pics and files, but not right now. Maybe I will find a fun pic on the internet to use instead.
I would like to add a pic to my journal entry like many others have, but my laptop is broken and all of the pics are on that hard drive. Fortunately I (actually hubby, he is the computer geek here) will be able to retreive all of my pics and files, but not right now. Maybe I will find a fun pic on the internet to use instead.
This book was a captivating read. I thought the first part of the book was great for wrapping you up in the story and making the reader care about Nancy. The rest of the book wasn't as thrilling, but was still very interesting and well written. I have read others comments on the ending, and I must say I am happy with it and where Nancy ended up.
I did get frustrated in parts and it is something that frustrates me whenever it pops up in a book containing romance. It drives me crazy when 2 people in a book obviously have feelings for each other and neither realizes the feelings are mutual. I want them to get together, I want them to realize that "the look" that passes between them means something on both sides. Maybe it is the time period the book is set in that makes the characters so reluctant, but I am worried the whole time that the author is not going to follow through and hook them up.
I enjoyed reading all of the journal entries for this well traveled book. I will send it along in the next couple days when I get the address of the next recipient.
Thanks for including me in this ray!
I did get frustrated in parts and it is something that frustrates me whenever it pops up in a book containing romance. It drives me crazy when 2 people in a book obviously have feelings for each other and neither realizes the feelings are mutual. I want them to get together, I want them to realize that "the look" that passes between them means something on both sides. Maybe it is the time period the book is set in that makes the characters so reluctant, but I am worried the whole time that the author is not going to follow through and hook them up.
I enjoyed reading all of the journal entries for this well traveled book. I will send it along in the next couple days when I get the address of the next recipient.
Thanks for including me in this ray!
I am putting together more participants for this great book.
Usual ring/ray stuff applies. Try to read it in around 2 months, make a journal entry when you receive it and send it on, and hopefully enjoy!
PARTICIPANT LIST-
indygo88 (IN)
arugh48187 (MN, US shipping)
Lpree (Nebraska, ship anywhere)
mellion108 (MI, ship anywhere)
Flakes (IL, ship anywhere)
ajsmom (Canada)
Arwen-Galadriel(Canada)
LisaGriffith (Massachusetts, ship anywhere)
Franciek (Italy)
back to me, guinaveve
Usual ring/ray stuff applies. Try to read it in around 2 months, make a journal entry when you receive it and send it on, and hopefully enjoy!
indygo88 (IN)
arugh48187 (MN, US shipping)
Lpree (Nebraska, ship anywhere)
mellion108 (MI, ship anywhere)
Flakes (IL, ship anywhere)
ajsmom (Canada)
Arwen-Galadriel(Canada)
LisaGriffith (Massachusetts, ship anywhere)
Franciek (Italy)
back to me, guinaveve
Journal Entry 46 by guinaveve at Fellow BookCrosser in By mail / post / courier, By Mail/Post/Courier -- Controlled Releases on Monday, February 13, 2006
Released 18 yrs ago (2/13/2006 UTC) at Fellow BookCrosser in By mail / post / courier, By Mail/Post/Courier -- Controlled Releases
WILD RELEASE NOTES:
RELEASE NOTES: Enjoy!
It's here, it's here! Gosh, nothing like seeing what I know is a packaged book in my mailbox! I've got a few to read before this, but am anxious to dive in. I don't think I've yet had a book that's traveled as much as this one, so that's exciting!
3/4/06 -- Starting book today.
3/4/06 -- Starting book today.
Gosh, what to say....
I can't say I've read anything quite like this before, although that didn't make it any less appealing. Honestly, I didn't really know what to expect out of this book, but I was so intrigued after reading the description and seeing how well-traveled the book was, that I decided I really did want to join this bookray! Considering how much traveling this book has done, I think it's held up pretty well and like several other readers have said, it's got a very comfy feel about it when holding it in your hands and becoming absorbed into the story. The cover picture is misleading though, I think.
I have to admit that living where I live, being brought up the way I have, and being surrounded by mostly very "straight" individuals (and yes, I am rather that way myself), I found myself almost blushing during certain parts of the story. I carried this book around with me as I went to and from work and to/from various other places, and I think if my mom ever got a glance at it, or those I work with (I work in a therapy clinic w/ special needs children) saw me reading it, it might get quite a reaction. Just yesterday I was holed up in a library to kill some time on my lunch hour and despite myself, I had to find sort of a secluded cubby hole to sit down and read this. It shouldn't matter -- I know... :')
Overall, I liked the book. It was very hard to put down, and I love books like that. I waited until just now, after finishing it, to read everyone else's reviews so as not to spoil anything for myself. And I have to say that I agree with almost everyone else's comments, so I won't repeat all of that here. Whether you're straight or a tom, I think a lot of the character development and relationship developments in this book could relate to anyone. Like most everyone else, I think I enjoyed the first part best -- all those feelings of first love and such -- and then "real life" kind of took its place after that. I have mixed feelings about the ending. Even in the last chapter, I kept thinking, "how is this going to end?", and though it was packaged rather neatly and more or less happily, I thought it sort of a let-down. But then again, I think life is often like that too....
I have "Fingersmith" on my TBR pile, so I'm anxious to get to that, as many seem to think it's better than this one. Thank you, Flashgirl & guinaveve, for sharing this book! I'm certain I haven't before had a book that's traveled so much as this one, so I feel very special to be a part of its journey! :') I will be making a trip to the post office later today to mail this on to arugh in Minnesota!
I can't say I've read anything quite like this before, although that didn't make it any less appealing. Honestly, I didn't really know what to expect out of this book, but I was so intrigued after reading the description and seeing how well-traveled the book was, that I decided I really did want to join this bookray! Considering how much traveling this book has done, I think it's held up pretty well and like several other readers have said, it's got a very comfy feel about it when holding it in your hands and becoming absorbed into the story. The cover picture is misleading though, I think.
I have to admit that living where I live, being brought up the way I have, and being surrounded by mostly very "straight" individuals (and yes, I am rather that way myself), I found myself almost blushing during certain parts of the story. I carried this book around with me as I went to and from work and to/from various other places, and I think if my mom ever got a glance at it, or those I work with (I work in a therapy clinic w/ special needs children) saw me reading it, it might get quite a reaction. Just yesterday I was holed up in a library to kill some time on my lunch hour and despite myself, I had to find sort of a secluded cubby hole to sit down and read this. It shouldn't matter -- I know... :')
Overall, I liked the book. It was very hard to put down, and I love books like that. I waited until just now, after finishing it, to read everyone else's reviews so as not to spoil anything for myself. And I have to say that I agree with almost everyone else's comments, so I won't repeat all of that here. Whether you're straight or a tom, I think a lot of the character development and relationship developments in this book could relate to anyone. Like most everyone else, I think I enjoyed the first part best -- all those feelings of first love and such -- and then "real life" kind of took its place after that. I have mixed feelings about the ending. Even in the last chapter, I kept thinking, "how is this going to end?", and though it was packaged rather neatly and more or less happily, I thought it sort of a let-down. But then again, I think life is often like that too....
I have "Fingersmith" on my TBR pile, so I'm anxious to get to that, as many seem to think it's better than this one. Thank you, Flashgirl & guinaveve, for sharing this book! I'm certain I haven't before had a book that's traveled so much as this one, so I feel very special to be a part of its journey! :') I will be making a trip to the post office later today to mail this on to arugh in Minnesota!
Found this one in my mailbox today. I have a few bookrings in front of it, but it shouldn't take too long. You can keep track of its progress via my bookshelf.
Whew! I finally finished this one. I have read "Fingersmith" and loved it, so I was expecting to like this one as much. Alas! Disappointment reigns, but only because I read Waters' later book first. I didn't hate the book, but it didn't make me rave either.
I do have to say that I have always had partners with outies and not innies, but I don't consider myself small minded (I like the phrase straight, but not narrow!). And I believe this is my first piece of lesbian fiction. I was a little apprehensive that I wouldn't be able to bypass my aversion to reading about the sex part of lesbian relationships, but I found it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, and am glad I persevered.
Thanks for sharing and sorry for keeping it so long. It will go out to the next reader later this week.
I do have to say that I have always had partners with outies and not innies, but I don't consider myself small minded (I like the phrase straight, but not narrow!). And I believe this is my first piece of lesbian fiction. I was a little apprehensive that I wouldn't be able to bypass my aversion to reading about the sex part of lesbian relationships, but I found it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, and am glad I persevered.
Thanks for sharing and sorry for keeping it so long. It will go out to the next reader later this week.
Journal Entry 51 by arugh48187 at Post Office at 153rd and Garrett in -- Mailed, -- By post or by hand/ in person -- USA on Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Released 17 yrs ago (5/23/2006 UTC) at Post Office at 153rd and Garrett in -- Mailed, -- By post or by hand/ in person -- USA
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Mailed off to LPree as she is next on the list. Happy reading!
Mailed off to LPree as she is next on the list. Happy reading!
This arrived in yesterday's mail. I've got a couple other rings ahead of it, but will read this as soon as I can. It looks like a very interesting book! :)
One more reader, and we might make the "most travelled list!!!
I finished this last weekend, but this is the first chance I've had to get on and post a journal entry.
It took me a while to finish it, but I'm glad I did. It was a really interesting story and I was really curious to find out how this story would end - it seemed like it could have gone on for quite a lot longer. While I couldn't really relate to the experiences of the main character, I found it all fascinating, especially the time period in which it all took place.
Anyway, thanks very much for sharing this story! I hope to get this moving again in the next few days.
It took me a while to finish it, but I'm glad I did. It was a really interesting story and I was really curious to find out how this story would end - it seemed like it could have gone on for quite a lot longer. While I couldn't really relate to the experiences of the main character, I found it all fascinating, especially the time period in which it all took place.
Anyway, thanks very much for sharing this story! I hope to get this moving again in the next few days.
Arrived today! Thanks so much for sending it my way, Lpree, and thanks to guinaveve for sharing.
I am reading 2 other bookring/rays right now, and I'll start this one next and have it moving along again as soon as possible.
Thanks!
I am reading 2 other bookring/rays right now, and I'll start this one next and have it moving along again as soon as possible.
Thanks!
One of the blurbs on the back of the book is correct—forget about completing any other work, chores, tasks, errands, etc., while reading this book. I was afraid that I would take far too long to finish it once I started it after the other rings I had to finish, but it only took me a few days. I wanted to take it with me everywhere! I really enjoyed the BBC series and am glad to have finally gotten a chance to read the actual book.
I enjoyed the book. I especially liked the first person narrative because it was so interesting to see the changes in Nancy's character throughout the novel. Like some other reviewers here, I, too, wanted some resolution between Nancy and her family because it felt like she just dumped them. But knowing the realities of coming out to family members, perhaps that would have only served to slow down the pace of the story.
The "naughty" bits? Loved 'em. :) I liked taking that trip with Nancy as she explored and discovered her own sexuality. It was equally and even more interesting to read along as she matured in her views of herself, relationships, sex, empathy, etc. Hard to believe that a gal of 25 could achieve such insight so quickly, but I suppose that Nancy experienced quite a few more ups and downs than the average person.
It's interesting now to read the reviews here (I avoided them until after finishing the book). I actually like Nancy's relationship with Flo. They both needed quite a bit of healing, and while meeting each other again was a bit too convenient, the time spent in establishing their feelings for each other was well worth the reading.
Although my hubby didn't read the book, he likes the cover (go figure), and he seemed intrigued by some of the comments I made to him while reading the book (of course, beginning some of my comments with "hot girl-on-girl action" probably didn't hurt where he was concerned). I took the book with me yesterday to read while I was waiting to get my hair cut. About 30 seconds after I reached the part explaining the meaning of "tipping the velvet," someone asked me, "Tipping the velvet? What does that mean?" Yep, I got to explain to a beauty shop filled with about 10 women the meaning of the phrase. Education abounds in the most unlikely places...
So many people have mentioned that Fingersmith is better than this book, so I'll have to add that one to my wishlist. I loved the writing in Tipping the Velvet, so if Fingersmith is even better, I imagine I'm in for a treat.
Thanks again for sharing! I have an address for Flakes, and I plan to mail the book on today. Enjoy!
I enjoyed the book. I especially liked the first person narrative because it was so interesting to see the changes in Nancy's character throughout the novel. Like some other reviewers here, I, too, wanted some resolution between Nancy and her family because it felt like she just dumped them. But knowing the realities of coming out to family members, perhaps that would have only served to slow down the pace of the story.
The "naughty" bits? Loved 'em. :) I liked taking that trip with Nancy as she explored and discovered her own sexuality. It was equally and even more interesting to read along as she matured in her views of herself, relationships, sex, empathy, etc. Hard to believe that a gal of 25 could achieve such insight so quickly, but I suppose that Nancy experienced quite a few more ups and downs than the average person.
It's interesting now to read the reviews here (I avoided them until after finishing the book). I actually like Nancy's relationship with Flo. They both needed quite a bit of healing, and while meeting each other again was a bit too convenient, the time spent in establishing their feelings for each other was well worth the reading.
Although my hubby didn't read the book, he likes the cover (go figure), and he seemed intrigued by some of the comments I made to him while reading the book (of course, beginning some of my comments with "hot girl-on-girl action" probably didn't hurt where he was concerned). I took the book with me yesterday to read while I was waiting to get my hair cut. About 30 seconds after I reached the part explaining the meaning of "tipping the velvet," someone asked me, "Tipping the velvet? What does that mean?" Yep, I got to explain to a beauty shop filled with about 10 women the meaning of the phrase. Education abounds in the most unlikely places...
So many people have mentioned that Fingersmith is better than this book, so I'll have to add that one to my wishlist. I loved the writing in Tipping the Velvet, so if Fingersmith is even better, I imagine I'm in for a treat.
Thanks again for sharing! I have an address for Flakes, and I plan to mail the book on today. Enjoy!
Arrived today, safe and sound. I'll start this one as soon as I finish my current read. Thanks for sharing!:)
I had previously read Water's novel Fingersmith and enjoyed it very much so I had high hopes for this book.
Overall a wonderful story that really pulls you in from the beginning. I was fascinated by Nancy's many loves and journeys. The only complaint that I had was that the book was a bit "explicit" at times!
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to read this great book. I'll be sending it on to ajsmom this week :)
Overall a wonderful story that really pulls you in from the beginning. I was fascinated by Nancy's many loves and journeys. The only complaint that I had was that the book was a bit "explicit" at times!
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to read this great book. I'll be sending it on to ajsmom this week :)
Received today, thanks!
I have just finished this book and would have to agree with most comments about Fingersmith being the better of the two. (I have a ray for Fingersmith which is on its' last person if anyone wants to join it, btw.) Waters does a fantastic job of description - I got a real feel for life at the turn of the century, right down to the texture of everyone's clothes - but it sometimes felt like the plot development got away from her. I could understand why Nancy didn't contact her family; think about how much she had changed since leaving Whitstable. The one visit home was most unsatisfactory, with her whole family treating her like an outsider, why would she consider returning, or asking for help? Whitstable was clearly a LOOOOOOONG way from London!
I thought the relationships were well-portrayed; Kitty was the first consummated crush and Flo ended up the mature, thinking relationship. She was right to turn down Kitty's offer of "carefulness" of course - who wants to deny their great love publicly? Flo may not be the great passion that Kitty was, but six years had passed between the first and the last and much learning had occurred about life in general in that time. Made sense to me!!
How exciting that this is the 25th journal - this is by far the longest bookring I have taken part of - and so in great hopes of continuing its' fabulous journey, I have contacted Arwen-Galadriel for an address. I will have the book galavanting across the Rockies as soon as I hear back. Thanks for the ring, guinaveve.
I thought the relationships were well-portrayed; Kitty was the first consummated crush and Flo ended up the mature, thinking relationship. She was right to turn down Kitty's offer of "carefulness" of course - who wants to deny their great love publicly? Flo may not be the great passion that Kitty was, but six years had passed between the first and the last and much learning had occurred about life in general in that time. Made sense to me!!
How exciting that this is the 25th journal - this is by far the longest bookring I have taken part of - and so in great hopes of continuing its' fabulous journey, I have contacted Arwen-Galadriel for an address. I will have the book galavanting across the Rockies as soon as I hear back. Thanks for the ring, guinaveve.
Journal Entry 61 by ajsmom at controlled release in By mail, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases on Monday, September 25, 2006
Released 17 yrs ago (9/25/2006 UTC) at controlled release in By mail, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases
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Sent to Arwen-Galadriel.
Sent to Arwen-Galadriel.
Received the book the other day and can not wait to read the book. I have already read the first little bit and am so far really enjoying it. Will journal more once I've finished the book.
Update - I should be finished the book in the next couple of days and have PM'd the next person on the list to get the ball rolling. Sorry for the delay.
Finished the book the other night and I really enjoyed it. I loved the style of writting and the flow of the book. I would totally recommend other people to read not only this book, but this author. Thanks for sharing.
Received the book today. I have a few bookring books in front of it in line but I'm looking forward to reading it and with the holiday here I'll be zipping through them all.
I enjoyed reading this book. I liked the first parts of the book better than the last however. The narrative seemed very rushed near the end.
I think the book was about growing up and the conscious choices that we're invited to make in life and sometimes don't because the default choice is the easier or the less glamorous way to go. It's also about the casualties of those choices.
I'm awaiting a response from piggeldy and will get this book moving as soon as I can. Thanks for sharing guinaveve.
I think the book was about growing up and the conscious choices that we're invited to make in life and sometimes don't because the default choice is the easier or the less glamorous way to go. It's also about the casualties of those choices.
I'm awaiting a response from piggeldy and will get this book moving as soon as I can. Thanks for sharing guinaveve.
amazing, beautiful, romantic! I've loved this book a lot and read it quickly ad I wanted to know all about Nancy as quick as I could! :-) Thank you so much guinaveve!! I've posted it this morning!
This book is back here again with me. It has 27 journalers, WOW!
I am not sure what to do with it now. I was thinking about offering it up for another ring. Or I might make a written note inside it listing all of the state and countries it has been to, see if that induces an anonymous finder to check out Bookcrossing and the travels of the book. I will have to think about it. I love the cover art and the worn, soft feel of the book and the page edges, I am almost loathe to part with it. It was a great story, but not one I will read again, so I definately want to pass it on somehow.
Thank you Franciek for the bookmark you included with it.
I am not sure what to do with it now. I was thinking about offering it up for another ring. Or I might make a written note inside it listing all of the state and countries it has been to, see if that induces an anonymous finder to check out Bookcrossing and the travels of the book. I will have to think about it. I love the cover art and the worn, soft feel of the book and the page edges, I am almost loathe to part with it. It was a great story, but not one I will read again, so I definately want to pass it on somehow.
Thank you Franciek for the bookmark you included with it.
I am sending this to piggydiva. In exchange she is sending me "Try-Its for Brownie Girl Scouts" by David Sahatdjjan.
Journal Entry 71 by guinaveve at Fellow BookCrosser in By mail / post / courier, By Mail/Post/Courier -- Controlled Releases on Thursday, May 24, 2007
Released 16 yrs ago (5/24/2007 UTC) at Fellow BookCrosser in By mail / post / courier, By Mail/Post/Courier -- Controlled Releases
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Enjoy!
Enjoy!
I received it in the mail today (somehow the postoffice had torn up the wrapping and then half-way pieced it back together!) So glad it made it here! It's been on my wishlist for a couple of years!
