This book is HOT!, 04 Apr 2008
This collection of short stories is an absolute scorching read. I was unable to stop reading it and, in the end, I had to ration myself to one or two stories a night.

The subjects cover the whole range of lesbian sexual expression and there is going to be something for everyone inside its pages. It is rude, raunchy, seductive and just plain sexy.

I was aroused by the stories pretty much all the time and my girlfriend kept getting woken up regularly when I was reading it in bed.

Buy it, it will really give you ideas.

oh dear, what a dissapointment, 04 Feb 2007
i really cant say any more than that of mt title above, i was looking for some steamy hot women on women tales, and i really didn't get that. the book is a matter of taste, if you enjoy reading stories about butch daddy types, that wish above all else that they had a penis then go ahead and buy this. personally i love women who are women and that means i loathed this book. definitely did not stir any passions within me. but again it depends on your tastes

in one word WET!, 14 Jan 2006
wow this makes a good night time read and a good book to share with your girlfriend there is a fanasy for everyone and also some new ones. Its not for the faint harted this book is rude, rude, rude

Up All Night - Kitten - Stephanie Taylor - WoW!!!!, 05 May 2005
What can I say apart from WOW!!!

This collection of short stories leads the reader on an exhilarating journey through the most intimate desires, emotions and sexual experimentations of contemporary lesbian women.

One story in particular made this book well worth reading...

Kitten by new author Stephanie Taylor fuses pure energy and vibrancy in its narrative with unadulterated erotic drama that left me tingling all over. I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next publication by this exciting author which promises at the very least to be thrilling!!!!

Thoughts of a straight reader, 02 Feb 2004
So, it wasn't what I wanted but heh, what do I know? Simply put if you are after fantasy material written for the selfish straight male - do not buy this book - go to the newsagents and buy an appropriate glossy magazine. This book is not pornography it is beautifully crafted and emotional literature that I enjoyed.

I may even have learned something:about modern sapphism - yes, women in general - perhaps, how to relate sex to emotion - absolutly.

My only concern is that like the character who watches her partner on the sly (read it) I am a guilty voyeur intruding on a world to which I wasn'ted invited and do not belong. Do I feel guilty - not really. I feel enlightened.

This book is HOT!, 04 Apr 2008
This collection of short stories is an absolute scorching read. I was unable to stop reading it and, in the end, I had to ration myself to one or two stories a night.

The subjects cover the whole range of lesbian sexual expression and there is going to be something for everyone inside its pages. It is rude, raunchy, seductive and just plain sexy.

I was aroused by the stories pretty much all the time and my girlfriend kept getting woken up regularly when I was reading it in bed.

Buy it, it will really give you ideas.

oh dear, what a dissapointment, 04 Feb 2007
i really cant say any more than that of mt title above, i was looking for some steamy hot women on women tales, and i really didn't get that. the book is a matter of taste, if you enjoy reading stories about butch daddy types, that wish above all else that they had a penis then go ahead and buy this. personally i love women who are women and that means i loathed this book. definitely did not stir any passions within me. but again it depends on your tastes

in one word WET!, 14 Jan 2006
wow this makes a good night time read and a good book to share with your girlfriend there is a fanasy for everyone and also some new ones. Its not for the faint harted this book is rude, rude, rude

Up All Night - Kitten - Stephanie Taylor - WoW!!!!, 05 May 2005
What can I say apart from WOW!!!

This collection of short stories leads the reader on an exhilarating journey through the most intimate desires, emotions and sexual experimentations of contemporary lesbian women.

One story in particular made this book well worth reading...

Kitten by new author Stephanie Taylor fuses pure energy and vibrancy in its narrative with unadulterated erotic drama that left me tingling all over. I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next publication by this exciting author which promises at the very least to be thrilling!!!!

Thoughts of a straight reader, 02 Feb 2004
So, it wasn't what I wanted but heh, what do I know? Simply put if you are after fantasy material written for the selfish straight male - do not buy this book - go to the newsagents and buy an appropriate glossy magazine. This book is not pornography it is beautifully crafted and emotional literature that I enjoyed.

I may even have learned something:about modern sapphism - yes, women in general - perhaps, how to relate sex to emotion - absolutly.

My only concern is that like the character who watches her partner on the sly (read it) I am a guilty voyeur intruding on a world to which I wasn'ted invited and do not belong. Do I feel guilty - not really. I feel enlightened.

A real page turner, 02 Aug 2008
The story of Drew and Jay, drawn to each other at their first meeting but with Jay in a failing relationship, the book follows their relationship from its beginnings in freindly flirtation through to its climax on a luxury holiday where Jay and her partner and Drew and her date and all present. A real page turner where the sexual tension continues to build with each page Gerri Hill has done it again, a wonderful read.

This book is HOT!, 04 Apr 2008
This collection of short stories is an absolute scorching read. I was unable to stop reading it and, in the end, I had to ration myself to one or two stories a night.

The subjects cover the whole range of lesbian sexual expression and there is going to be something for everyone inside its pages. It is rude, raunchy, seductive and just plain sexy.

I was aroused by the stories pretty much all the time and my girlfriend kept getting woken up regularly when I was reading it in bed.

Buy it, it will really give you ideas.

oh dear, what a dissapointment, 04 Feb 2007
i really cant say any more than that of mt title above, i was looking for some steamy hot women on women tales, and i really didn't get that. the book is a matter of taste, if you enjoy reading stories about butch daddy types, that wish above all else that they had a penis then go ahead and buy this. personally i love women who are women and that means i loathed this book. definitely did not stir any passions within me. but again it depends on your tastes

in one word WET!, 14 Jan 2006
wow this makes a good night time read and a good book to share with your girlfriend there is a fanasy for everyone and also some new ones. Its not for the faint harted this book is rude, rude, rude

Up All Night - Kitten - Stephanie Taylor - WoW!!!!, 05 May 2005
What can I say apart from WOW!!!

This collection of short stories leads the reader on an exhilarating journey through the most intimate desires, emotions and sexual experimentations of contemporary lesbian women.

One story in particular made this book well worth reading...

Kitten by new author Stephanie Taylor fuses pure energy and vibrancy in its narrative with unadulterated erotic drama that left me tingling all over. I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next publication by this exciting author which promises at the very least to be thrilling!!!!

Thoughts of a straight reader, 02 Feb 2004
So, it wasn't what I wanted but heh, what do I know? Simply put if you are after fantasy material written for the selfish straight male - do not buy this book - go to the newsagents and buy an appropriate glossy magazine. This book is not pornography it is beautifully crafted and emotional literature that I enjoyed.

I may even have learned something:about modern sapphism - yes, women in general - perhaps, how to relate sex to emotion - absolutly.

My only concern is that like the character who watches her partner on the sly (read it) I am a guilty voyeur intruding on a world to which I wasn'ted invited and do not belong. Do I feel guilty - not really. I feel enlightened.

A real page turner, 02 Aug 2008
The story of Drew and Jay, drawn to each other at their first meeting but with Jay in a failing relationship, the book follows their relationship from its beginnings in freindly flirtation through to its climax on a luxury holiday where Jay and her partner and Drew and her date and all present. A real page turner where the sexual tension continues to build with each page Gerri Hill has done it again, a wonderful read.

Genious, 12 Nov 2008
It is the definition of love. How amazing the word choice is each time they meet.

Too Close to Touch, 22 Oct 2007
Just fantastic!! It was the first book that ever got a tear from me...such a lovely love story and very well written!!

Simply excellent, 19 Dec 2006
This book is simply amazing. The tension created between the two characters was done very, very well, their rapour seemed fantastic and I felt along with them. The dialogue was written convincingly and some situations reminded me heavily of one's i have experienced myself. This book made me think about things in my life for a while afterwards when very few books have had this effect on me. I wanted to pick it up and read it again, almost straight after putting it down. It is very much, worth a read. I place this book in a much higher regard than the best selling lesbian novel - curious wine. A must buy.

500 stars!!, 15 Jul 2006
Life gets complicated when love turns out to be nothing like you expected - and the woman you want is too close to touch.

Gretchen Kaiser is a workaholic corporate honcho with issues - she's got daddy issues, she's got female-executive-in-a-man's-world issues, and she's got one night stand issues. What she doesn't have are love issues. She isn't looking for it, she doesn't feel she needs it, and she doesn't expect to find it...certainly not right under her nose. Kylie O'Brien is the kind of girl who believes in true love and is willing to wait until it shows up at her door. Her best friend Mick would sweep her off her feet given the chance, but Mick doesn't make Kylie feel the way true love should. And now Kylie has to worry about her new boss - Gretchen Kaiser's icy reserve makes life as her administrative assistant a challenge. It doesn't matter one damn bit that Gretchen is extremely attractive with a voice as rich and smooth as melted chocolate. It absolutely doesn't...

This book is HOT!, 04 Apr 2008
This collection of short stories is an absolute scorching read. I was unable to stop reading it and, in the end, I had to ration myself to one or two stories a night.

The subjects cover the whole range of lesbian sexual expression and there is going to be something for everyone inside its pages. It is rude, raunchy, seductive and just plain sexy.

I was aroused by the stories pretty much all the time and my girlfriend kept getting woken up regularly when I was reading it in bed.

Buy it, it will really give you ideas.

oh dear, what a dissapointment, 04 Feb 2007
i really cant say any more than that of mt title above, i was looking for some steamy hot women on women tales, and i really didn't get that. the book is a matter of taste, if you enjoy reading stories about butch daddy types, that wish above all else that they had a penis then go ahead and buy this. personally i love women who are women and that means i loathed this book. definitely did not stir any passions within me. but again it depends on your tastes

in one word WET!, 14 Jan 2006
wow this makes a good night time read and a good book to share with your girlfriend there is a fanasy for everyone and also some new ones. Its not for the faint harted this book is rude, rude, rude

Up All Night - Kitten - Stephanie Taylor - WoW!!!!, 05 May 2005
What can I say apart from WOW!!!

This collection of short stories leads the reader on an exhilarating journey through the most intimate desires, emotions and sexual experimentations of contemporary lesbian women.

One story in particular made this book well worth reading...

Kitten by new author Stephanie Taylor fuses pure energy and vibrancy in its narrative with unadulterated erotic drama that left me tingling all over. I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next publication by this exciting author which promises at the very least to be thrilling!!!!

Thoughts of a straight reader, 02 Feb 2004
So, it wasn't what I wanted but heh, what do I know? Simply put if you are after fantasy material written for the selfish straight male - do not buy this book - go to the newsagents and buy an appropriate glossy magazine. This book is not pornography it is beautifully crafted and emotional literature that I enjoyed.

I may even have learned something:about modern sapphism - yes, women in general - perhaps, how to relate sex to emotion - absolutly.

My only concern is that like the character who watches her partner on the sly (read it) I am a guilty voyeur intruding on a world to which I wasn'ted invited and do not belong. Do I feel guilty - not really. I feel enlightened.

A real page turner, 02 Aug 2008
The story of Drew and Jay, drawn to each other at their first meeting but with Jay in a failing relationship, the book follows their relationship from its beginnings in freindly flirtation through to its climax on a luxury holiday where Jay and her partner and Drew and her date and all present. A real page turner where the sexual tension continues to build with each page Gerri Hill has done it again, a wonderful read.

Genious, 12 Nov 2008
It is the definition of love. How amazing the word choice is each time they meet.

Too Close to Touch, 22 Oct 2007
Just fantastic!! It was the first book that ever got a tear from me...such a lovely love story and very well written!!

Simply excellent, 19 Dec 2006
This book is simply amazing. The tension created between the two characters was done very, very well, their rapour seemed fantastic and I felt along with them. The dialogue was written convincingly and some situations reminded me heavily of one's i have experienced myself. This book made me think about things in my life for a while afterwards when very few books have had this effect on me. I wanted to pick it up and read it again, almost straight after putting it down. It is very much, worth a read. I place this book in a much higher regard than the best selling lesbian novel - curious wine. A must buy.

500 stars!!, 15 Jul 2006
Life gets complicated when love turns out to be nothing like you expected - and the woman you want is too close to touch.

Gretchen Kaiser is a workaholic corporate honcho with issues - she's got daddy issues, she's got female-executive-in-a-man's-world issues, and she's got one night stand issues. What she doesn't have are love issues. She isn't looking for it, she doesn't feel she needs it, and she doesn't expect to find it...certainly not right under her nose. Kylie O'Brien is the kind of girl who believes in true love and is willing to wait until it shows up at her door. Her best friend Mick would sweep her off her feet given the chance, but Mick doesn't make Kylie feel the way true love should. And now Kylie has to worry about her new boss - Gretchen Kaiser's icy reserve makes life as her administrative assistant a challenge. It doesn't matter one damn bit that Gretchen is extremely attractive with a voice as rich and smooth as melted chocolate. It absolutely doesn't...


Sex Sex and more sex, 08 Aug 2008
In this story is Dan and Laurel. It begins with Dana's birtday and how is she celebrating do you ask?
By staying at work and working on a 'very improtant proposal'. That is quickly inturputed by a half naked woman dancing on her lap. After the first rush of desire has passed Dana angrily escorts Laurel out of the building. And of course the lift breaks down. And no one will be in until morning, which in turn means they'll have to find some way to ammuse themselfs(g). And as you'll probably guess it isn't long before Dana forgets about her 'important proposal'.
I at first thought the whole book would be about the whole thirteen hours and was worried that wouldn't be enough. But gladly that isn't the case as the story carrys on from their heated tyrst. And even furter into their relationship.
A real hot erotic story.

Hot! Hot! Hot!, 09 Jun 2008
This book is so hot it burns your fingers. Unashamedly pure erotic fiction. With the whole of the first half of the book taking place in the lift the atmosphere is electric as the characters engage in games of truth or dare and it continues to build to a rip roaring climax (!) from there.
I cannot recommend it enough if you like your fiction with an incredibly sexy slant.


Synopsis, 21 May 2008
It's her birthday, but lonely workaholic Dana Watts is at the office late, drafting a proposal. She is interrupted by the very last thing she would have expected: the most beautiful breasts she has ever seen. These belong to an incredibly hot stripper, a birthday present from a friend who thinks she needs to loosen up.

Laurel Stanley has never encountered a more ungrateful strip-o-gram recipient than Dana. The uptight project manager makes it clear that she is furious to be distracted from her work and equally appalled by Laurel's occupation.



When Dana insists on escorting Laurel from the building, the two women take an elevator ride that changes everything. Stuck with each other for thirteen long hours after the elevator breaks down, they discover how wrong first impressions can be--and how right two strangers can feel together.

Can everything change in less than a day? Dana and Laurel set out to discover if their passionate elevator encounter can mean more in this fast-paced, erotic story of lust, loneliness, fantasy, and desire.

This book is HOT!, 04 Apr 2008
This collection of short stories is an absolute scorching read. I was unable to stop reading it and, in the end, I had to ration myself to one or two stories a night.

The subjects cover the whole range of lesbian sexual expression and there is going to be something for everyone inside its pages. It is rude, raunchy, seductive and just plain sexy.

I was aroused by the stories pretty much all the time and my girlfriend kept getting woken up regularly when I was reading it in bed.

Buy it, it will really give you ideas.

oh dear, what a dissapointment, 04 Feb 2007
i really cant say any more than that of mt title above, i was looking for some steamy hot women on women tales, and i really didn't get that. the book is a matter of taste, if you enjoy reading stories about butch daddy types, that wish above all else that they had a penis then go ahead and buy this. personally i love women who are women and that means i loathed this book. definitely did not stir any passions within me. but again it depends on your tastes

in one word WET!, 14 Jan 2006
wow this makes a good night time read and a good book to share with your girlfriend there is a fanasy for everyone and also some new ones. Its not for the faint harted this book is rude, rude, rude

Up All Night - Kitten - Stephanie Taylor - WoW!!!!, 05 May 2005
What can I say apart from WOW!!!

This collection of short stories leads the reader on an exhilarating journey through the most intimate desires, emotions and sexual experimentations of contemporary lesbian women.

One story in particular made this book well worth reading...

Kitten by new author Stephanie Taylor fuses pure energy and vibrancy in its narrative with unadulterated erotic drama that left me tingling all over. I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next publication by this exciting author which promises at the very least to be thrilling!!!!

Thoughts of a straight reader, 02 Feb 2004
So, it wasn't what I wanted but heh, what do I know? Simply put if you are after fantasy material written for the selfish straight male - do not buy this book - go to the newsagents and buy an appropriate glossy magazine. This book is not pornography it is beautifully crafted and emotional literature that I enjoyed.

I may even have learned something:about modern sapphism - yes, women in general - perhaps, how to relate sex to emotion - absolutly.

My only concern is that like the character who watches her partner on the sly (read it) I am a guilty voyeur intruding on a world to which I wasn'ted invited and do not belong. Do I feel guilty - not really. I feel enlightened.

A real page turner, 02 Aug 2008
The story of Drew and Jay, drawn to each other at their first meeting but with Jay in a failing relationship, the book follows their relationship from its beginnings in freindly flirtation through to its climax on a luxury holiday where Jay and her partner and Drew and her date and all present. A real page turner where the sexual tension continues to build with each page Gerri Hill has done it again, a wonderful read.

Genious, 12 Nov 2008
It is the definition of love. How amazing the word choice is each time they meet.

Too Close to Touch, 22 Oct 2007
Just fantastic!! It was the first book that ever got a tear from me...such a lovely love story and very well written!!

Simply excellent, 19 Dec 2006
This book is simply amazing. The tension created between the two characters was done very, very well, their rapour seemed fantastic and I felt along with them. The dialogue was written convincingly and some situations reminded me heavily of one's i have experienced myself. This book made me think about things in my life for a while afterwards when very few books have had this effect on me. I wanted to pick it up and read it again, almost straight after putting it down. It is very much, worth a read. I place this book in a much higher regard than the best selling lesbian novel - curious wine. A must buy.

500 stars!!, 15 Jul 2006
Life gets complicated when love turns out to be nothing like you expected - and the woman you want is too close to touch.

Gretchen Kaiser is a workaholic corporate honcho with issues - she's got daddy issues, she's got female-executive-in-a-man's-world issues, and she's got one night stand issues. What she doesn't have are love issues. She isn't looking for it, she doesn't feel she needs it, and she doesn't expect to find it...certainly not right under her nose. Kylie O'Brien is the kind of girl who believes in true love and is willing to wait until it shows up at her door. Her best friend Mick would sweep her off her feet given the chance, but Mick doesn't make Kylie feel the way true love should. And now Kylie has to worry about her new boss - Gretchen Kaiser's icy reserve makes life as her administrative assistant a challenge. It doesn't matter one damn bit that Gretchen is extremely attractive with a voice as rich and smooth as melted chocolate. It absolutely doesn't...


Sex Sex and more sex, 08 Aug 2008
In this story is Dan and Laurel. It begins with Dana's birtday and how is she celebrating do you ask?
By staying at work and working on a 'very improtant proposal'. That is quickly inturputed by a half naked woman dancing on her lap. After the first rush of desire has passed Dana angrily escorts Laurel out of the building. And of course the lift breaks down. And no one will be in until morning, which in turn means they'll have to find some way to ammuse themselfs(g). And as you'll probably guess it isn't long before Dana forgets about her 'important proposal'.
I at first thought the whole book would be about the whole thirteen hours and was worried that wouldn't be enough. But gladly that isn't the case as the story carrys on from their heated tyrst. And even furter into their relationship.
A real hot erotic story.

Hot! Hot! Hot!, 09 Jun 2008
This book is so hot it burns your fingers. Unashamedly pure erotic fiction. With the whole of the first half of the book taking place in the lift the atmosphere is electric as the characters engage in games of truth or dare and it continues to build to a rip roaring climax (!) from there.
I cannot recommend it enough if you like your fiction with an incredibly sexy slant.


Synopsis, 21 May 2008
It's her birthday, but lonely workaholic Dana Watts is at the office late, drafting a proposal. She is interrupted by the very last thing she would have expected: the most beautiful breasts she has ever seen. These belong to an incredibly hot stripper, a birthday present from a friend who thinks she needs to loosen up.

Laurel Stanley has never encountered a more ungrateful strip-o-gram recipient than Dana. The uptight project manager makes it clear that she is furious to be distracted from her work and equally appalled by Laurel's occupation.



When Dana insists on escorting Laurel from the building, the two women take an elevator ride that changes everything. Stuck with each other for thirteen long hours after the elevator breaks down, they discover how wrong first impressions can be--and how right two strangers can feel together.

Can everything change in less than a day? Dana and Laurel set out to discover if their passionate elevator encounter can mean more in this fast-paced, erotic story of lust, loneliness, fantasy, and desire.


TOP MARKS!, 05 Nov 2008
I really don't know what I can add in review of this book, which hasn't already been said by the other reviewers - I was caught up in this wonderful novel from the outset, feeling somehow that the character of Richard got inside my head and I needed to - simply must - find out where he was going.

The story sweeps along through the Falklands war and the economic fallout which effected Argentina, through the changing 80's and ultimately leads to loss, as HIV & AIDS comes to the fore of the gay community.

The book was strange in the fact that nothing really happened and, only the final third of the story, picked up any pace. The rest of the book was told slowly, as if uncoiling. Nothing really happened and, yet, I couldn't stop reading.

The character of Richard is both gentle and yet powerful, his relationship with his mother develops further meaning the deeper you read and his partnership with Pablo touching and real, moving from initial lust through to genuine kinship.

I cannot rate this book highly enough - its definately 'a keeper' (ie. one to keep on the shelf and look forward to enjoying again in the future). This will not disappoint!

Re: Colm Toibin's The Story of the Night., 04 Nov 2008
I finished this book yesterday, and have found myself thinking about it throughout today, especially the ending. The characterisation is excellent and the characters are so real and human. I found it was a book that I didn't want to put down, and couldn't wait to return to. I can't remember the last time a book has had such a profound impact on me. The writing style grips the reader and one becomes absorbed in the story. I have never read any of the authors other work but will now, though they have a lot to live up to as this is the best book I've read in years.

Wolverhampton Libraries LGBT Reading Group Review, 23 May 2008
Richard/Ricardo discovers his identity at a time of great unrest in Argentina during the reign of the Generals and the Falklands war and before the AIDS crisis.

Following the death of his staunchly patriotic English mother, Richard finds himself alone and finding solace with men he encounters on streets and in saunas. After quitting his job as an English teacher, his Anglo-Argentinean language skills come in useful as he is introduced into the world of Americans, politics, business men and corruption. This leads him to meet the elusive but alluring Pablo, brother of Jorge - Richard's friend and English student.

Erotic but never vulgar, the story that ensues is predictable but written in a succinct and realistic style, efficiently portraying the fear and desolation that many gay men must have felt during the 80's.

It is important to bear in mind that this title was first published in 1997 so is a relatively old book and, for some, may not have the same impact that it did at the time.

The group was divided with its appraisal but, worryingly, everyone agreed the middle third of the book could have been omitted with little detriment to the overall story! This read may be best suited to someone new to gay fiction who can keep up with the history lesson too.

the story of the night by colm toibin, 11 Feb 2007
Like other readers, I bought this book by chance. I read it non-stop. i was absolutely captivated. have read some of his other work, The South and the Blackwater Lightship - both were very, very good. Give them a try - you won't be disappointed.

Can I stay for a while?, 04 Sep 2006
I bought this book by chance, interested in the content and by Toibin's reputation. I never expected to be moved to tears. I read the book in three sittings, something I have never done before, simply because I could not put it down. I think I almost fell in love with Richard Garay and I have only ever once before cried when reaching the end of a novel. The subject matter in the final chapter is particularly close to my heart and I will never forget the emotional journery either in my own life or in the chacters depected here. Thank you for writing this book and portraying real gay characters, not simply laughable, camp shallow characters, and for portraying so poiniantly how two men can fall in love so deeply, the difficulties they can sometimes face coming to terms with their sexuality and the isolation that it can bring. I want to dive back into their lives and share it with them all over again. I am profoundly moved.

The heroine of Sarah Waters's audacious first novel knows her destiny, and seems content with it. Her place is in her father's seaside restaurant, shucking shellfish and stirring soup, singing all the while. "Although I didn't believe the story told to me by Mother--that they had found me as a baby in an oyster-shell, and a greedy customer had almost eaten me for lunch--for 18 years I never doubted my own oysterish sympathies, never looked beyond my father's kitchen for occupation, or for love." At night Nancy Astley often ventures to the nearby music hall, not that she has illusions of being more than an audience member. But the moment she spies a new male impersonator--still something of a curiosity in England circa 1888--her years of innocence come to an end and a life of transformations begins.

Tipping the Velvet, all 472 pages of it, is as saucy, as tantalising, and as touching as the narrator's first encounter with the seductive but shame-ridden Miss Kitty Butler. And at first even Nancy's family is thrilled with her gender-bending pal, all but her sister, best friend, and bedmate, Alice, "her eyes shining cold and dull, with starlight and suspicion". Not to worry. Soon Nancy and Kitty are off to London, their relationship close though (alas for our heroine) sisterly. We know that bliss will come, and it does, in an exceptionally charged moment. A lesser author would have been content to stop her story there, but Waters has much more in mind for her buttonholing heroine, and for us. In brief, her Everywoman with a sexual difference goes from success onstage to heartbreak to a stint as a male prostitute (necessity truly is the mother of invention) to keeping house for a brother and sister in the Labour movement. And did I mention her long stint as a plaything in the pleasure palace of a rich Sapphist extraordinaire? Diana Lethaby is as cruel as she is carnal, and even the well- concealed Cavendish Ladies' Club isn't outré enough for her. Kitting Nancy out in full, elegant drag, she dares the front desk to turn them away. "We are here," she mocks, "for the sake of the irregular."

Only after some seven years of hard twists and sensual turns does Nancy conclude that a life of sensation is not enough. Still, Tipping the Velvet is so entertaining that readers will wish her sentimental--and hedonistic--education had taken twice as long. --Kerry Fried, Amazon.com

This book is HOT!, 04 Apr 2008
This collection of short stories is an absolute scorching read. I was unable to stop reading it and, in the end, I had to ration myself to one or two stories a night.

The subjects cover the whole range of lesbian sexual expression and there is going to be something for everyone inside its pages. It is rude, raunchy, seductive and just plain sexy.

I was aroused by the stories pretty much all the time and my girlfriend kept getting woken up regularly when I was reading it in bed.

Buy it, it will really give you ideas.

oh dear, what a dissapointment, 04 Feb 2007
i really cant say any more than that of mt title above, i was looking for some steamy hot women on women tales, and i really didn't get that. the book is a matter of taste, if you enjoy reading stories about butch daddy types, that wish above all else that they had a penis then go ahead and buy this. personally i love women who are women and that means i loathed this book. definitely did not stir any passions within me. but again it depends on your tastes

in one word WET!, 14 Jan 2006
wow this makes a good night time read and a good book to share with your girlfriend there is a fanasy for everyone and also some new ones. Its not for the faint harted this book is rude, rude, rude

Up All Night - Kitten - Stephanie Taylor - WoW!!!!, 05 May 2005
What can I say apart from WOW!!!

This collection of short stories leads the reader on an exhilarating journey through the most intimate desires, emotions and sexual experimentations of contemporary lesbian women.

One story in particular made this book well worth reading...

Kitten by new author Stephanie Taylor fuses pure energy and vibrancy in its narrative with unadulterated erotic drama that left me tingling all over. I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next publication by this exciting author which promises at the very least to be thrilling!!!!

Thoughts of a straight reader, 02 Feb 2004
So, it wasn't what I wanted but heh, what do I know? Simply put if you are after fantasy material written for the selfish straight male - do not buy this book - go to the newsagents and buy an appropriate glossy magazine. This book is not pornography it is beautifully crafted and emotional literature that I enjoyed.

I may even have learned something:about modern sapphism - yes, women in general - perhaps, how to relate sex to emotion - absolutly.

My only concern is that like the character who watches her partner on the sly (read it) I am a guilty voyeur intruding on a world to which I wasn'ted invited and do not belong. Do I feel guilty - not really. I feel enlightened.

A real page turner, 02 Aug 2008
The story of Drew and Jay, drawn to each other at their first meeting but with Jay in a failing relationship, the book follows their relationship from its beginnings in freindly flirtation through to its climax on a luxury holiday where Jay and her partner and Drew and her date and all present. A real page turner where the sexual tension continues to build with each page Gerri Hill has done it again, a wonderful read.

Genious, 12 Nov 2008
It is the definition of love. How amazing the word choice is each time they meet.

Too Close to Touch, 22 Oct 2007
Just fantastic!! It was the first book that ever got a tear from me...such a lovely love story and very well written!!

Simply excellent, 19 Dec 2006
This book is simply amazing. The tension created between the two characters was done very, very well, their rapour seemed fantastic and I felt along with them. The dialogue was written convincingly and some situations reminded me heavily of one's i have experienced myself. This book made me think about things in my life for a while afterwards when very few books have had this effect on me. I wanted to pick it up and read it again, almost straight after putting it down. It is very much, worth a read. I place this book in a much higher regard than the best selling lesbian novel - curious wine. A must buy.

500 stars!!, 15 Jul 2006
Life gets complicated when love turns out to be nothing like you expected - and the woman you want is too close to touch.

Gretchen Kaiser is a workaholic corporate honcho with issues - she's got daddy issues, she's got female-executive-in-a-man's-world issues, and she's got one night stand issues. What she doesn't have are love issues. She isn't looking for it, she doesn't feel she needs it, and she doesn't expect to find it...certainly not right under her nose. Kylie O'Brien is the kind of girl who believes in true love and is willing to wait until it shows up at her door. Her best friend Mick would sweep her off her feet given the chance, but Mick doesn't make Kylie feel the way true love should. And now Kylie has to worry about her new boss - Gretchen Kaiser's icy reserve makes life as her administrative assistant a challenge. It doesn't matter one damn bit that Gretchen is extremely attractive with a voice as rich and smooth as melted chocolate. It absolutely doesn't...


Sex Sex and more sex, 08 Aug 2008
In this story is Dan and Laurel. It begins with Dana's birtday and how is she celebrating do you ask?
By staying at work and working on a 'very improtant proposal'. That is quickly inturputed by a half naked woman dancing on her lap. After the first rush of desire has passed Dana angrily escorts Laurel out of the building. And of course the lift breaks down. And no one will be in until morning, which in turn means they'll have to find some way to ammuse themselfs(g). And as you'll probably guess it isn't long before Dana forgets about her 'important proposal'.
I at first thought the whole book would be about the whole thirteen hours and was worried that wouldn't be enough. But gladly that isn't the case as the story carrys on from their heated tyrst. And even furter into their relationship.
A real hot erotic story.

Hot! Hot! Hot!, 09 Jun 2008
This book is so hot it burns your fingers. Unashamedly pure erotic fiction. With the whole of the first half of the book taking place in the lift the atmosphere is electric as the characters engage in games of truth or dare and it continues to build to a rip roaring climax (!) from there.
I cannot recommend it enough if you like your fiction with an incredibly sexy slant.


Synopsis, 21 May 2008
It's her birthday, but lonely workaholic Dana Watts is at the office late, drafting a proposal. She is interrupted by the very last thing she would have expected: the most beautiful breasts she has ever seen. These belong to an incredibly hot stripper, a birthday present from a friend who thinks she needs to loosen up.

Laurel Stanley has never encountered a more ungrateful strip-o-gram recipient than Dana. The uptight project manager makes it clear that she is furious to be distracted from her work and equally appalled by Laurel's occupation.



When Dana insists on escorting Laurel from the building, the two women take an elevator ride that changes everything. Stuck with each other for thirteen long hours after the elevator breaks down, they discover how wrong first impressions can be--and how right two strangers can feel together.

Can everything change in less than a day? Dana and Laurel set out to discover if their passionate elevator encounter can mean more in this fast-paced, erotic story of lust, loneliness, fantasy, and desire.


TOP MARKS!, 05 Nov 2008
I really don't know what I can add in review of this book, which hasn't already been said by the other reviewers - I was caught up in this wonderful novel from the outset, feeling somehow that the character of Richard got inside my head and I needed to - simply must - find out where he was going.

The story sweeps along through the Falklands war and the economic fallout which effected Argentina, through the changing 80's and ultimately leads to loss, as HIV & AIDS comes to the fore of the gay community.

The book was strange in the fact that nothing really happened and, only the final third of the story, picked up any pace. The rest of the book was told slowly, as if uncoiling. Nothing really happened and, yet, I couldn't stop reading.

The character of Richard is both gentle and yet powerful, his relationship with his mother develops further meaning the deeper you read and his partnership with Pablo touching and real, moving from initial lust through to genuine kinship.

I cannot rate this book highly enough - its definately 'a keeper' (ie. one to keep on the shelf and look forward to enjoying again in the future). This will not disappoint!

Re: Colm Toibin's The Story of the Night., 04 Nov 2008
I finished this book yesterday, and have found myself thinking about it throughout today, especially the ending. The characterisation is excellent and the characters are so real and human. I found it was a book that I didn't want to put down, and couldn't wait to return to. I can't remember the last time a book has had such a profound impact on me. The writing style grips the reader and one becomes absorbed in the story. I have never read any of the authors other work but will now, though they have a lot to live up to as this is the best book I've read in years.

Wolverhampton Libraries LGBT Reading Group Review, 23 May 2008
Richard/Ricardo discovers his identity at a time of great unrest in Argentina during the reign of the Generals and the Falklands war and before the AIDS crisis.

Following the death of his staunchly patriotic English mother, Richard finds himself alone and finding solace with men he encounters on streets and in saunas. After quitting his job as an English teacher, his Anglo-Argentinean language skills come in useful as he is introduced into the world of Americans, politics, business men and corruption. This leads him to meet the elusive but alluring Pablo, brother of Jorge - Richard's friend and English student.

Erotic but never vulgar, the story that ensues is predictable but written in a succinct and realistic style, efficiently portraying the fear and desolation that many gay men must have felt during the 80's.

It is important to bear in mind that this title was first published in 1997 so is a relatively old book and, for some, may not have the same impact that it did at the time.

The group was divided with its appraisal but, worryingly, everyone agreed the middle third of the book could have been omitted with little detriment to the overall story! This read may be best suited to someone new to gay fiction who can keep up with the history lesson too.

the story of the night by colm toibin, 11 Feb 2007
Like other readers, I bought this book by chance. I read it non-stop. i was absolutely captivated. have read some of his other work, The South and the Blackwater Lightship - both were very, very good. Give them a try - you won't be disappointed.

Can I stay for a while?, 04 Sep 2006
I bought this book by chance, interested in the content and by Toibin's reputation. I never expected to be moved to tears. I read the book in three sittings, something I have never done before, simply because I could not put it down. I think I almost fell in love with Richard Garay and I have only ever once before cried when reaching the end of a novel. The subject matter in the final chapter is particularly close to my heart and I will never forget the emotional journery either in my own life or in the chacters depected here. Thank you for writing this book and portraying real gay characters, not simply laughable, camp shallow characters, and for portraying so poiniantly how two men can fall in love so deeply, the difficulties they can sometimes face coming to terms with their sexuality and the isolation that it can bring. I want to dive back into their lives and share it with them all over again. I am profoundly moved.

A revelation, 10 Nov 2008
To be honest, I was dreading reading this novel. I hated the television adaptation and the only reason I did read it is because a friend let me a pile of fiction, it was the last one and I didn't have anything else to read. However, from the moment I began reading I was extremely impressed by Water's confidence writing style and reliable historical research. She is one of the best historical fiction writers I have ever read and I can't rate her highly enough. I believe Sarah Waters deserves to be mainstream. Highly recommended.


Lip Bitingly good, 31 Aug 2008
My Sarah waters virginity was lost with "Fingersmith" (which i adored), so i naturally moved onto Tipping the Velvet. Unlike Fingersmith, there is only one character to focus on. Not that this was a bad thing however; in fact it made the book more intense. You could completly induldge in Nans thoughts, feelings, experiences and heart break. It was a deliciously smooth read which i found impossible to put down and shall re-read over an over. If you want to give your mind something to devour, then let it be Tipping the Velvet. You wont be dissapointed.

I feel I grew up with these two young women, 15 Jan 2008
By Mr. W. Dover "aspiring nobody" (Duesseldorf, Germany) - See all my reviews


This story just takes you right inside the lives of two young women living in Victorian England. These central characters are both experiencing so many new things in their lives, yet they gradually find that they have fundamentally different motives and desires. Either they are greedy for admiration and fame, or they are falling in love for the first time.

Like Sarah Waters' more recent novel "The Night Watch", this book is tragic, but with comic moments and as such I think it a masterwork. Classical in its overarching themes of "coming out of the Garden of Eden" (and no pun intended about Coming out), or coming to terms with the world, it sweeps you along with the journey of the characters. Everything the women experience affects the reader in a way that cannot be described. As a male reader, not aware of any particular preconceptions, I watched & loved the TV series, then had to read the book (albeit several years later though).

A element common to great works of fiction, surely, is that the reader shares the emotions of the central protagonists, for better or worse, along the course of the story. And that's exactly what I found whilst reading this tale. Regardless of sex, or sexual persuasion "Tipping the Velvet" pulls you in and doesn't let go. "Unputtdownable" is a term much overused these days. Whatever your opinion on that, I recommend that if you enjoy historical fiction or not; if you identify with idealistic yet reckless (to use one of Waters' favourite words) heroines or not; if you can't abide people who use others according to their own whims and fancies, or if you find that irrelevant; if you want to escape into another time and place as if you never knew any other life; in short, if you are fond of books that enthrall and entrance, then this is the one for you.

I cannot emphasise enough how deeply this book moved me. It makes you want to go and dance on the stage, like the women do. A wonderful, fulfilling and uplifting story. Ultimately life-enhancing.

A good read, 07 Oct 2007
It's reputation as a Victorian lesbian bodice ripper having preceded it, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from Tipping the Velvet. I needn't have worried - it is an extremely well written book, which drew me into the story and kept me intrigued from the very start.

The main topic of the story is lesbianism in the 1890s, and as such it is pretty graphic at many points. Therefore readers who are upset by homosexuality or descriptive sex scenes of any kind should avoid this book. However, it is very well written with a strong cast of interesting characters and plenty of twists and turns in the plot.

I did feel that the story lost some of its momentum in parts 2 and 3, but it was still enjoyable and didn't drag. The ending worked well, and I was left feeling pleased I'd given the book a chance. I would recommend this to any reader over 16, as long as they aren't worried by the sex scenes.

A Lesbo-Victorian Romp, 10 Sep 2007
...as jokingly described by Sarah Waters herself. But oh how much more than that it is. The story is that of Nan Astley, a young and naive oyster girl who falls in love with another woman, thus changing her life forever. We're taken into a great tale of showbusiness, the secret Victorian lesbian underworld, and so much more.
Sarah Waters' usual fantastic writing and imagination brings us yet another brilliant book.

Filled with sex, seduction, pain, heartache, violence, and all in the beautifully described Victorian era, this is a book you will not be able to put down until you have finished every word!

This book is HOT!, 04 Apr 2008
This collection of short stories is an absolute scorching read. I was unable to stop reading it and, in the end, I had to ration myself to one or two stories a night.

The subjects cover the whole range of lesbian sexual expression and there is going to be something for everyone inside its pages. It is rude, raunchy, seductive and just plain sexy.

I was aroused by the stories pretty much all the time and my girlfriend kept getting woken up regularly when I was reading it in bed.

Buy it, it will really give you ideas.

oh dear, what a dissapointment, 04 Feb 2007
i really cant say any more than that of mt title above, i was looking for some steamy hot women on women tales, and i really didn't get that. the book is a matter of taste, if you enjoy reading stories about butch daddy types, that wish above all else that they had a penis then go ahead and buy this. personally i love women who are women and that means i loathed this book. definitely did not stir any passions within me. but again it depends on your tastes

in one word WET!, 14 Jan 2006
wow this makes a good night time read and a good book to share with your girlfriend there is a fanasy for everyone and also some new ones. Its not for the faint harted this book is rude, rude, rude

Up All Night - Kitten - Stephanie Taylor - WoW!!!!, 05 May 2005
What can I say apart from WOW!!!

This collection of short stories leads the reader on an exhilarating journey through the most intimate desires, emotions and sexual experimentations of contemporary lesbian women.

One story in particular made this book well worth reading...

Kitten by new author Stephanie Taylor fuses pure energy and vibrancy in its narrative with unadulterated erotic drama that left me tingling all over. I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next publication by this exciting author which promises at the very least to be thrilling!!!!

Thoughts of a straight reader, 02 Feb 2004
So, it wasn't what I wanted but heh, what do I know? Simply put if you are after fantasy material written for the selfish straight male - do not buy this book - go to the newsagents and buy an appropriate glossy magazine. This book is not pornography it is beautifully crafted and emotional literature that I enjoyed.

I may even have learned something:about modern sapphism - yes, women in general - perhaps, how to relate sex to emotion - absolutly.

My only concern is that like the character who watches her partner on the sly (read it) I am a guilty voyeur intruding on a world to which I wasn'ted invited and do not belong. Do I feel guilty - not really. I feel enlightened.

A real page turner, 02 Aug 2008
The story of Drew and Jay, drawn to each other at their first meeting but with Jay in a failing relationship, the book follows their relationship from its beginnings in freindly flirtation through to its climax on a luxury holiday where Jay and her partner and Drew and her date and all present. A real page turner where the sexual tension continues to build with each page Gerri Hill has done it again, a wonderful read.

Genious, 12 Nov 2008
It is the definition of love. How amazing the word choice is each time they meet.

Too Close to Touch, 22 Oct 2007
Just fantastic!! It was the first book that ever got a tear from me...such a lovely love story and very well written!!

Simply excellent, 19 Dec 2006
This book is simply amazing. The tension created between the two characters was done very, very well, their rapour seemed fantastic and I felt along with them. The dialogue was written convincingly and some situations reminded me heavily of one's i have experienced myself. This book made me think about things in my life for a while afterwards when very few books have had this effect on me. I wanted to pick it up and read it again, almost straight after putting it down. It is very much, worth a read. I place this book in a much higher regard than the best selling lesbian novel - curious wine. A must buy.

500 stars!!, 15 Jul 2006
Life gets complicated when love turns out to be nothing like you expected - and the woman you want is too close to touch.

Gretchen Kaiser is a workaholic corporate honcho with issues - she's got daddy issues, she's got female-executive-in-a-man's-world issues, and she's got one night stand issues. What she doesn't have are love issues. She isn't looking for it, she doesn't feel she needs it, and she doesn't expect to find it...certainly not right under her nose. Kylie O'Brien is the kind of girl who believes in true love and is willing to wait until it shows up at her door. Her best friend Mick would sweep her off her feet given the chance, but Mick doesn't make Kylie feel the way true love should. And now Kylie has to worry about her new boss - Gretchen Kaiser's icy reserve makes life as her administrative assistant a challenge. It doesn't matter one damn bit that Gretchen is extremely attractive with a voice as rich and smooth as melted chocolate. It absolutely doesn't...


Sex Sex and more sex, 08 Aug 2008
In this story is Dan and Laurel. It begins with Dana's birtday and how is she celebrating do you ask?
By staying at work and working on a 'very improtant proposal'. That is quickly inturputed by a half naked woman dancing on her lap. After the first rush of desire has passed Dana angrily escorts Laurel out of the building. And of course the lift breaks down. And no one will be in until morning, which in turn means they'll have to find some way to ammuse themselfs(g). And as you'll probably guess it isn't long before Dana forgets about her 'important proposal'.
I at first thought the whole book would be about the whole thirteen hours and was worried that wouldn't be enough. But gladly that isn't the case as the story carrys on from their heated tyrst. And even furter into their relationship.
A real hot erotic story.

Hot! Hot! Hot!, 09 Jun 2008
This book is so hot it burns your fingers. Unashamedly pure erotic fiction. With the whole of the first half of the book taking place in the lift the atmosphere is electric as the characters engage in games of truth or dare and it continues to build to a rip roaring climax (!) from there.
I cannot recommend it enough if you like your fiction with an incredibly sexy slant.


Synopsis, 21 May 2008
It's her birthday, but lonely workaholic Dana Watts is at the office late, drafting a proposal. She is interrupted by the very last thing she would have expected: the most beautiful breasts she has ever seen. These belong to an incredibly hot stripper, a birthday present from a friend who thinks she needs to loosen up.

Laurel Stanley has never encountered a more ungrateful strip-o-gram recipient than Dana. The uptight project manager makes it clear that she is furious to be distracted from her work and equally appalled by Laurel's occupation.



When Dana insists on escorting Laurel from the building, the two women take an elevator ride that changes everything. Stuck with each other for thirteen long hours after the elevator breaks down, they discover how wrong first impressions can be--and how right two strangers can feel together.

Can everything change in less than a day? Dana and Laurel set out to discover if their passionate elevator encounter can mean more in this fast-paced, erotic story of lust, loneliness, fantasy, and desire.


TOP MARKS!, 05 Nov 2008
I really don't know what I can add in review of this book, which hasn't already been said by the other reviewers - I was caught up in this wonderful novel from the outset, feeling somehow that the character of Richard got inside my head and I needed to - simply must - find out where he was going.

The story sweeps along through the Falklands war and the economic fallout which effected Argentina, through the changing 80's and ultimately leads to loss, as HIV & AIDS comes to the fore of the gay community.

The book was strange in the fact that nothing really happened and, only the final third of the story, picked up any pace. The rest of the book was told slowly, as if uncoiling. Nothing really happened and, yet, I couldn't stop reading.

The character of Richard is both gentle and yet powerful, his relationship with his mother develops further meaning the deeper you read and his partnership with Pablo touching and real, moving from initial lust through to genuine kinship.

I cannot rate this book highly enough - its definately 'a keeper' (ie. one to keep on the shelf and look forward to enjoying again in the future). This will not disappoint!

Re: Colm Toibin's The Story of the Night., 04 Nov 2008
I finished this book yesterday, and have found myself thinking about it throughout today, especially the ending. The characterisation is excellent and the characters are so real and human. I found it was a book that I didn't want to put down, and couldn't wait to return to. I can't remember the last time a book has had such a profound impact on me. The writing style grips the reader and one becomes absorbed in the story. I have never read any of the authors other work but will now, though they have a lot to live up to as this is the best book I've read in years.

Wolverhampton Libraries LGBT Reading Group Review, 23 May 2008
Richard/Ricardo discovers his identity at a time of great unrest in Argentina during the reign of the Generals and the Falklands war and before the AIDS crisis.

Following the death of his staunchly patriotic English mother, Richard finds himself alone and finding solace with men he encounters on streets and in saunas. After quitting his job as an English teacher, his Anglo-Argentinean language skills come in useful as he is introduced into the world of Americans, politics, business men and corruption. This leads him to meet the elusive but alluring Pablo, brother of Jorge - Richard's friend and English student.

Erotic but never vulgar, the story that ensues is predictable but written in a succinct and realistic style, efficiently portraying the fear and desolation that many gay men must have felt during the 80's.

It is important to bear in mind that this title was first published in 1997 so is a relatively old book and, for some, may not have the same impact that it did at the time.

The group was divided with its appraisal but, worryingly, everyone agreed the middle third of the book could have been omitted with little detriment to the overall story! This read may be best suited to someone new to gay fiction who can keep up with the history lesson too.

the story of the night by colm toibin, 11 Feb 2007
Like other readers, I bought this book by chance. I read it non-stop. i was absolutely captivated. have read some of his other work, The South and the Blackwater Lightship - both were very, very good. Give them a try - you won't be disappointed.

Can I stay for a while?, 04 Sep 2006
I bought this book by chance, interested in the content and by Toibin's reputation. I never expected to be moved to tears. I read the book in three sittings, something I have never done before, simply because I could not put it down. I think I almost fell in love with Richard Garay and I have only ever once before cried when reaching the end of a novel. The subject matter in the final chapter is particularly close to my heart and I will never forget the emotional journery either in my own life or in the chacters depected here. Thank you for writing this book and portraying real gay characters, not simply laughable, camp shallow characters, and for portraying so poiniantly how two men can fall in love so deeply, the difficulties they can sometimes face coming to terms with their sexuality and the isolation that it can bring. I want to dive back into their lives and share it with them all over again. I am profoundly moved.

A revelation, 10 Nov 2008
To be honest, I was dreading reading this novel. I hated the television adaptation and the only reason I did read it is because a friend let me a pile of fiction, it was the last one and I didn't have anything else to read. However, from the moment I began reading I was extremely impressed by Water's confidence writing style and reliable historical research. She is one of the best historical fiction writers I have ever read and I can't rate her highly enough. I believe Sarah Waters deserves to be mainstream. Highly recommended.


Lip Bitingly good, 31 Aug 2008
My Sarah waters virginity was lost with "Fingersmith" (which i adored), so i naturally moved onto Tipping the Velvet. Unlike Fingersmith, there is only one character to focus on. Not that this was a bad thing however; in fact it made the book more intense. You could completly induldge in Nans thoughts, feelings, experiences and heart break. It was a deliciously smooth read which i found impossible to put down and shall re-read over an over. If you want to give your mind something to devour, then let it be Tipping the Velvet. You wont be dissapointed.

I feel I grew up with these two young women, 15 Jan 2008
By Mr. W. Dover "aspiring nobody" (Duesseldorf, Germany) - See all my reviews


This story just takes you right inside the lives of two young women living in Victorian England. These central characters are both experiencing so many new things in their lives, yet they gradually find that they have fundamentally different motives and desires. Either they are greedy for admiration and fame, or they are falling in love for the first time.

Like Sarah Waters' more recent novel "The Night Watch", this book is tragic, but with comic moments and as such I think it a masterwork. Classical in its overarching themes of "coming out of the Garden of Eden" (and no pun intended about Coming out), or coming to terms with the world, it sweeps you along with the journey of the characters. Everything the women experience affects the reader in a way that cannot be described. As a male reader, not aware of any particular preconceptions, I watched & loved the TV series, then had to read the book (albeit several years later though).

A element common to great works of fiction, surely, is that the reader shares the emotions of the central protagonists, for better or worse, along the course of the story. And that's exactly what I found whilst reading this tale. Regardless of sex, or sexual persuasion "Tipping the Velvet" pulls you in and doesn't let go. "Unputtdownable" is a term much overused these days. Whatever your opinion on that, I recommend that if you enjoy historical fiction or not; if you identify with idealistic yet reckless (to use one of Waters' favourite words) heroines or not; if you can't abide people who use others according to their own whims and fancies, or if you find that irrelevant; if you want to escape into another time and place as if you never knew any other life; in short, if you are fond of books that enthrall and entrance, then this is the one for you.

I cannot emphasise enough how deeply this book moved me. It makes you want to go and dance on the stage, like the women do. A wonderful, fulfilling and uplifting story. Ultimately life-enhancing.

A good read, 07 Oct 2007
It's reputation as a Victorian lesbian bodice ripper having preceded it, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from Tipping the Velvet. I needn't have worried - it is an extremely well written book, which drew me into the story and kept me intrigued from the very start.

The main topic of the story is lesbianism in the 1890s, and as such it is pretty graphic at many points. Therefore readers who are upset by homosexuality or descriptive sex scenes of any kind should avoid this book. However, it is very well written with a strong cast of interesting characters and plenty of twists and turns in the plot.

I did feel that the story lost some of its momentum in parts 2 and 3, but it was still enjoyable and didn't drag. The ending worked well, and I was left feeling pleased I'd given the book a chance. I would recommend this to any reader over 16, as long as they aren't worried by the sex scenes.

A Lesbo-Victorian Romp, 10 Sep 2007
...as jokingly described by Sarah Waters herself. But oh how much more than that it is. The story is that of Nan Astley, a young and naive oyster girl who falls in love with another woman, thus changing her life forever. We're taken into a great tale of showbusiness, the secret Victorian lesbian underworld, and so much more.
Sarah Waters' usual fantastic writing and imagination brings us yet another brilliant book.

Filled with sex, seduction, pain, heartache, violence, and all in the beautifully described Victorian era, this is a book you will not be able to put down until you have finished every word!

Sleazy, sexy and highly entertaining..., 18 Nov 2006
This is the book I wish I'd written myself. It's sleazy and highly explicit; not for the faint-hearted. But it summons up brilliantly the atmosphere of the Halls and of the queer subculture of the thirties, (not that I remember!)

Paul Lemoyne is a pretty unpleasant character, but like his few real friends, you can't quite abandon him, and despite yourself, you care what happens to him. I suppose the fact that he knows he's behaving badly is a considerable redeeming feature. The end suggests that this may be the first of a series -- I would guess a trilogy -- a prospect which makes me very happy.

The book is written in spare prose and with a lightness of touch which makes it a pleasure to read.

This book is HOT!, 04 Apr 2008
This collection of short stories is an absolute scorching read. I was unable to stop reading it and, in the end, I had to ration myself to one or two stories a night.

The subjects cover the whole range of lesbian sexual expression and there is going to be something for everyone inside its pages. It is rude, raunchy, seductive and just plain sexy.

I was aroused by the stories pretty much all the time and my girlfriend kept getting woken up regularly when I was reading it in bed.

Buy it, it will really give you ideas.

oh dear, what a dissapointment, 04 Feb 2007
i really cant say any more than that of mt title above, i was looking for some steamy hot women on women tales, and i really didn't get that. the book is a matter of taste, if you enjoy reading stories about butch daddy types, that wish above all else that they had a penis then go ahead and buy this. personally i love women who are women and that means i loathed this book. definitely did not stir any passions within me. but again it depends on your tastes

in one word WET!, 14 Jan 2006
wow this makes a good night time read and a good book to share with your girlfriend there is a fanasy for everyone and also some new ones. Its not for the faint harted this book is rude, rude, rude

Up All Night - Kitten - Stephanie Taylor - WoW!!!!, 05 May 2005
What can I say apart from WOW!!!

This collection of short stories leads the reader on an exhilarating journey through the most intimate desires, emotions and sexual experimentations of contemporary lesbian women.

One story in particular made this book well worth reading...

Kitten by new author Stephanie Taylor fuses pure energy and vibrancy in its narrative with unadulterated erotic drama that left me tingling all over. I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next publication by this exciting author which promises at the very least to be thrilling!!!!

Thoughts of a straight reader, 02 Feb 2004
So, it wasn't what I wanted but heh, what do I know? Simply put if you are after fantasy material written for the selfish straight male - do not buy this book - go to the newsagents and buy an appropriate glossy magazine. This book is not pornography it is beautifully crafted and emotional literature that I enjoyed.

I may even have learned something:about modern sapphism - yes, women in general - perhaps, how to relate sex to emotion - absolutly.

My only concern is that like the character who watches her partner on the sly (read it) I am a guilty voyeur intruding on a world to which I wasn'ted invited and do not belong. Do I feel guilty - not really. I feel enlightened.

A real page turner, 02 Aug 2008
The story of Drew and Jay, drawn to each other at their first meeting but with Jay in a failing relationship, the book follows their relationship from its beginnings in freindly flirtation through to its climax on a luxury holiday where Jay and her partner and Drew and her date and all present. A real page turner where the sexual tension continues to build with each page Gerri Hill has done it again, a wonderful read.

Genious, 12 Nov 2008
It is the definition of love. How amazing the word choice is each time they meet.

Too Close to Touch, 22 Oct 2007
Just fantastic!! It was the first book that ever got a tear from me...such a lovely love story and very well written!!

Simply excellent, 19 Dec 2006
This book is simply amazing. The tension created between the two characters was done very, very well, their rapour seemed fantastic and I felt along with them. The dialogue was written convincingly and some situations reminded me heavily of one's i have experienced myself. This book made me think about things in my life for a while afterwards when very few books have had this effect on me. I wanted to pick it up and read it again, almost straight after putting it down. It is very much, worth a read. I place this book in a much higher regard than the best selling lesbian novel - curious wine. A must buy.

500 stars!!, 15 Jul 2006
Life gets complicated when love turns out to be nothing like you expected - and the woman you want is too close to touch.

Gretchen Kaiser is a workaholic corporate honcho with issues - she's got daddy issues, she's got female-executive-in-a-man's-world issues, and she's got one night stand issues. What she doesn't have are love issues. She isn't looking for it, she doesn't feel she needs it, and she doesn't expect to find it...certainly not right under her nose. Kylie O'Brien is the kind of girl who believes in true love and is willing to wait until it shows up at her door. Her best friend Mick would sweep her off her feet given the chance, but Mick doesn't make Kylie feel the way true love should. And now Kylie has to worry about her new boss - Gretchen Kaiser's icy reserve makes life as her administrative assistant a challenge. It doesn't matter one damn bit that Gretchen is extremely attractive with a voice as rich and smooth as melted chocolate. It absolutely doesn't...


Sex Sex and more sex, 08 Aug 2008
In this story is Dan and Laurel. It begins with Dana's birtday and how is she celebrating do you ask?
By staying at work and working on a 'very improtant proposal'. That is quickly inturputed by a half naked woman dancing on her lap. After the first rush of desire has passed Dana angrily escorts Laurel out of the building. And of course the lift breaks down. And no one will be in until morning, which in turn means they'll have to find some way to ammuse themselfs(g). And as you'll probably guess it isn't long before Dana forgets about her 'important proposal'.
I at first thought the whole book would be about the whole thirteen hours and was worried that wouldn't be enough. But gladly that isn't the case as the story carrys on from their heated tyrst. And even furter into their relationship.
A real hot erotic story.

Hot! Hot! Hot!, 09 Jun 2008
This book is so hot it burns your fingers. Unashamedly pure erotic fiction. With the whole of the first half of the book taking place in the lift the atmosphere is electric as the characters engage in games of truth or dare and it continues to build to a rip roaring climax (!) from there.
I cannot recommend it enough if you like your fiction with an incredibly sexy slant.


Synopsis, 21 May 2008
It's her birthday, but lonely workaholic Dana Watts is at the office late, drafting a proposal. She is interrupted by the very last thing she would have expected: the most beautiful breasts she has ever seen. These belong to an incredibly hot stripper, a birthday present from a friend who thinks she needs to loosen up.

Laurel Stanley has never encountered a more ungrateful strip-o-gram recipient than Dana. The uptight project manager makes it clear that she is furious to be distracted from her work and equally appalled by Laurel's occupation.



When Dana insists on escorting Laurel from the building, the two women take an elevator ride that changes everything. Stuck with each other for thirteen long hours after the elevator breaks down, they discover how wrong first impressions can be--and how right two strangers can feel together.

Can everything change in less than a day? Dana and Laurel set out to discover if their passionate elevator encounter can mean more in this fast-paced, erotic story of lust, loneliness, fantasy, and desire.


TOP MARKS!, 05 Nov 2008
I really don't know what I can add in review of this book, which hasn't already been said by the other reviewers - I was caught up in this wonderful novel from the outset, feeling somehow that the character of Richard got inside my head and I needed to - simply must - find out where he was going.

The story sweeps along through the Falklands war and the economic fallout which effected Argentina, through the changing 80's and ultimately leads to loss, as HIV & AIDS comes to the fore of the gay community.

The book was strange in the fact that nothing really happened and, only the final third of the story, picked up any pace. The rest of the book was told slowly, as if uncoiling. Nothing really happened and, yet, I couldn't stop reading.

The character of Richard is both gentle and yet powerful, his relationship with his mother develops further meaning the deeper you read and his partnership with Pablo touching and real, moving from initial lust through to genuine kinship.

I cannot rate this book highly enough - its definately 'a keeper' (ie. one to keep on the shelf and look forward to enjoying again in the future). This will not disappoint!

Re: Colm Toibin's The Story of the Night., 04 Nov 2008
I finished this book yesterday, and have found myself thinking about it throughout today, especially the ending. The characterisation is excellent and the characters are so real and human. I found it was a book that I didn't want to put down, and couldn't wait to return to. I can't remember the last time a book has had such a profound impact on me. The writing style grips the reader and one becomes absorbed in the story. I have never read any of the authors other work but will now, though they have a lot to live up to as this is the best book I've read in years.

Wolverhampton Libraries LGBT Reading Group Review, 23 May 2008
Richard/Ricardo discovers his identity at a time of great unrest in Argentina during the reign of the Generals and the Falklands war and before the AIDS crisis.

Following the death of his staunchly patriotic English mother, Richard finds himself alone and finding solace with men he encounters on streets and in saunas. After quitting his job as an English teacher, his Anglo-Argentinean language skills come in useful as he is introduced into the world of Americans, politics, business men and corruption. This leads him to meet the elusive but alluring Pablo, brother of Jorge - Richard's friend and English student.

Erotic but never vulgar, the story that ensues is predictable but written in a succinct and realistic style, efficiently portraying the fear and desolation that many gay men must have felt during the 80's.

It is important to bear in mind that this title was first published in 1997 so is a relatively old book and, for some, may not have the same impact that it did at the time.

The group was divided with its appraisal but, worryingly, everyone agreed the middle third of the book could have been omitted with little detriment to the overall story! This read may be best suited to someone new to gay fiction who can keep up with the history lesson too.

the story of the night by colm toibin, 11 Feb 2007
Like other readers, I bought this book by chance. I read it non-stop. i was absolutely captivated. have read some of his other work, The South and the Blackwater Lightship - both were very, very good. Give them a try - you won't be disappointed.

Can I stay for a while?, 04 Sep 2006
I bought this book by chance, interested in the content and by Toibin's reputation. I never expected to be moved to tears. I read the book in three sittings, something I have never done before, simply because I could not put it down. I think I almost fell in love with Richard Garay and I have only ever once before cried when reaching the end of a novel. The subject matter in the final chapter is particularly close to my heart and I will never forget the emotional journery either in my own life or in the chacters depected here. Thank you for writing this book and portraying real gay characters, not simply laughable, camp shallow characters, and for portraying so poiniantly how two men can fall in love so deeply, the difficulties they can sometimes face coming to terms with their sexuality and the isolation that it can bring. I want to dive back into their lives and share it with them all over again. I am profoundly moved.

A revelation, 10 Nov 2008
To be honest, I was dreading reading this novel. I hated the television adaptation and the only reason I did read it is because a friend let me a pile of fiction, it was the last one and I didn't have anything else to read. However, from the moment I began reading I was extremely impressed by Water's confidence writing style and reliable historical research. She is one of the best historical fiction writers I have ever read and I can't rate her highly enough. I believe Sarah Waters deserves to be mainstream. Highly recommended.


Lip Bitingly good, 31 Aug 2008
My Sarah waters virginity was lost with "Fingersmith" (which i adored), so i naturally moved onto Tipping the Velvet. Unlike Fingersmith, there is only one character to focus on. Not that this was a bad thing however; in fact it made the book more intense. You could completly induldge in Nans thoughts, feelings, experiences and heart break. It was a deliciously smooth read which i found impossible to put down and shall re-read over an over. If you want to give your mind something to devour, then let it be Tipping the Velvet. You wont be dissapointed.

I feel I grew up with these two young women, 15 Jan 2008
By Mr. W. Dover "aspiring nobody" (Duesseldorf, Germany) - See all my reviews


This story just takes you right inside the lives of two young women living in Victorian England. These central characters are both experiencing so many new things in their lives, yet they gradually find that they have fundamentally different motives and desires. Either they are greedy for admiration and fame, or they are falling in love for the first time.

Like Sarah Waters' more recent novel "The Night Watch", this book is tragic, but with comic moments and as such I think it a masterwork. Classical in its overarching themes of "coming out of the Garden of Eden" (and no pun intended about Coming out), or coming to terms with the world, it sweeps you along with the journey of the characters. Everything the women experience affects the reader in a way that cannot be described. As a male reader, not aware of any particular preconceptions, I watched & loved the TV series, then had to read the book (albeit several years later though).

A element common to great works of fiction, surely, is that the reader shares the emotions of the central protagonists, for better or worse, along the course of the story. And that's exactly what I found whilst reading this tale. Regardless of sex, or sexual persuasion "Tipping the Velvet" pulls you in and doesn't let go. "Unputtdownable" is a term much overused these days. Whatever your opinion on that, I recommend that if you enjoy historical fiction or not; if you identify with idealistic yet reckless (to use one of Waters' favourite words) heroines or not; if you can't abide people who use others according to their own whims and fancies, or if you find that irrelevant; if you want to escape into another time and place as if you never knew any other life; in short, if you are fond of books that enthrall and entrance, then this is the one for you.

I cannot emphasise enough how deeply this book moved me. It makes you want to go and dance on the stage, like the women do. A wonderful, fulfilling and uplifting story. Ultimately life-enhancing.

A good read, 07 Oct 2007
It's reputation as a Victorian lesbian bodice ripper having preceded it, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from Tipping the Velvet. I needn't have worried - it is an extremely well written book, which drew me into the story and kept me intrigued from the very start.

The main topic of the story is lesbianism in the 1890s, and as such it is pretty graphic at many points. Therefore readers who are upset by homosexuality or descriptive sex scenes of any kind should avoid this book. However, it is very well written with a strong cast of interesting characters and plenty of twists and turns in the plot.

I did feel that the story lost some of its momentum in parts 2 and 3, but it was still enjoyable and didn't drag. The ending worked well, and I was left feeling pleased I'd given the book a chance. I would recommend this to any reader over 16, as long as they aren't worried by the sex scenes.

A Lesbo-Victorian Romp, 10 Sep 2007
...as jokingly described by Sarah Waters herself. But oh how much more than that it is. The story is that of Nan Astley, a young and naive oyster girl who falls in love with another woman, thus changing her life forever. We're taken into a great tale of showbusiness, the secret Victorian lesbian underworld, and so much more.
Sarah Waters' usual fantastic writing and imagination brings us yet another brilliant book.

Filled with sex, seduction, pain, heartache, violence, and all in the beautifully described Victorian era, this is a book you will not be able to put down until you have finished every word!

Sleazy, sexy and highly entertaining..., 18 Nov 2006
This is the book I wish I'd written myself. It's sleazy and highly explicit; not for the faint-hearted. But it summons up brilliantly the atmosphere of the Halls and of the queer subculture of the thirties, (not that I remember!)

Paul Lemoyne is a pretty unpleasant character, but like his few real friends, you can't quite abandon him, and despite yourself, you care what happens to him. I suppose the fact that he knows he's behaving badly is a considerable redeeming feature. The end suggests that this may be the first of a series -- I would guess a trilogy -- a prospect which makes me very happy.

The book is written in spare prose and with a lightness of touch which makes it a pleasure to read.

a lovely read, 08 Jul 2008
If you are into lesbian romance and a good story, this is a great read. If you want a casual trashy lesbian sex book this is not the book for that. There are plenty of other good reads for that.. This is about old fashioned love, romance and sensual love making. I loved it and it is a favorite re read.


Wonderful, 07 Feb 2005
I loved this book from the moment it began. The simplicity in the story of what is a complicated time, infused by a writing that makes us really feel the wonder of each woman's experience is a pleasure to find.

I've since read it numerous times, one to keep and cherish.

Mills and Boon... with lesbians, 23 Jan 2005
I bought this book based on the great reviews and was disappointed. It's not a bad book, but it's not great either. If I had read it when it was first published I'm sure I would have felt differently but there are so many lesbian themed book out there now that are as good or better. I found much of the conversation in the book pretty dated, but maybe that's just because I wasn't around at the time so I don't appreciate it.

The main thing about this book is that I didn't think it was very well written. The characters have little depth, I found the dialogue unconvincing and the plot's not very interesting.

On the plus side the main characters are likeable and there was enough in it to make me want to finish it.

Bottom line... if you're looking for some (very) light reading and a mildly erotic lesbian romance, read this book. If you want something more, keep looking.