Affinity Summary of Sarah Waters's Book

Book Summary: Affinity by Sarah Waters

Affinity, written by Sarah Waters, is a gripping historical fiction novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships, the supernatural, and the societal norms of Victorian London. Published on May 6, 1999, this novel falls under the genres of historical fiction, fiction, and LGBT. Set in the grim confines of Millbank prison, the story follows Margaret Prior, an upper-class woman recovering from a suicide attempt, who becomes entangled in the life of an enigmatic inmate named Selina Dawes. As Margaret delves deeper into Selina's world of spiritualism and mystery, she finds herself questioning her own beliefs and desires.

Characters

• Margaret Prior: The protagonist of the story, Margaret is an upper-class woman who is recovering from a suicide attempt. She becomes fascinated by Selina Dawes and begins visiting her in the women's ward of Millbank prison.
• Selina Dawes: The enigmatic spiritualist who is imprisoned in Millbank after a séance gone wrong. Selina's innocence and mysterious gifts captivate Margaret, leading her into a world of ghosts and shadows.
• Various Inmates: The women of Millbank prison, including murderers and thieves, who play a role in Margaret's interactions with Selina.

Detailed Summary

An upper-class woman recovering from a suicide attempt, Margaret Prior has begun visiting the women’s ward of Millbank prison, Victorian London’s grimmest jail, as part of her rehabilitative charity work. Amongst Millbank’s murderers and common thieves, Margaret finds herself increasingly fascinated by one apparently innocent inmate, the enigmatic spiritualist Selina Dawes. Selina was imprisoned after a séance she was conducting went horribly awry, leaving an elderly matron dead and a young woman deeply disturbed. Although initially skeptical of Selina’s gifts, Margaret is soon drawn into a twilight world of ghosts and shadows, unruly spirits and unseemly passions, until she is at last driven to concoct a desperate plot to secure Selina’s freedom, and her own.

Extensive Analysis

Affinity explores themes of redemption, obsession, and the supernatural within the confines of Victorian society. The novel delves into the complexities of female relationships, power dynamics, and the blurred lines between reality and the spirit world. Waters masterfully weaves a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, questioning the motivations and intentions of the characters.

Margaret Prior's journey from a woman plagued by her own demons to a woman consumed by her fascination with Selina Dawes is both intriguing and haunting. The dynamic between Margaret and Selina is filled with tension, desire, and manipulation, challenging societal norms and expectations of the time.

Waters' attention to detail in recreating the grim and oppressive atmosphere of Millbank prison adds to the overall sense of foreboding and mystery that permeates the novel. The twists and turns of the plot keep readers guessing until the very end, with themes of guilt, deception, and the search for redemption resonating throughout.

Final thoughts

For fans of historical fiction, LGBT literature, and gripping mysteries, Affinity is a must-read. Sarah Waters's evocative writing style and compelling characters make this novel a captivating and thought-provoking read. If you enjoyed this brief summary, consider purchasing the complete book to fully immerse yourself in the world of Margaret Prior and Selina Dawes. Alternatively, you can also listen to the audiobook for a unique and immersive experience. Get ready to embark on a journey of twists, turns, and revelations unlike any other.

9781573228732 (ISBN10: 1573228737)