One common theme is the exploration of female agency. In lesbian historical fiction, women are often shown taking control of their own lives and relationships in a world that didn't always give them much power. Another is the theme of cultural and historical context. These stories are set in different times and places, and the historical backdrop - like the laws, the social mores, the political climate - all influence the relationships and the characters' experiences. For instance, in some stories set during World War II, the war affects how the lesbian relationships are formed and maintained.
'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters is also highly recommended. It's set in Victorian England and is full of twists and turns. The characters are well - developed and the portrayal of the lesbian relationship is complex and nuanced. It shows how women in that era had to navigate their feelings within a society with strict norms.
Historical lesbian fiction books often explore the social constraints of the time. For example, in many past eras, same - sex relationships were not accepted. So, these books show how the characters navigate this hostile environment. They also tend to have rich historical settings, like Victorian England or early 20th - century America, which add depth to the story.
One great book is 'The Price of Salt' by Patricia Highsmith. It was groundbreaking for its time in depicting a lesbian relationship within a historical context.
Perhaps it delves into the challenges and experiences of a lesbian in a historical setting through the biographical form of writing. It could be a way to bring to light a less - known aspect of history, from the point of view of a marginalized group. For example, it may show how she navigates love, family, and society with her sexual identity in a time when it was not widely accepted.
There's also 'Stone Butch Blues' which is an important work in lesbian literature. It gives an in - depth look at the experiences of a butch lesbian in a historical time frame, showing the struggles and the community that was there.
It might be its specific historical setting. Maybe it delves into a period or a location that other similar books haven't explored as deeply. For example, it could be set in a less - known region during a particular era.
Another theme is the power of love in a difficult world. Love between two women in a historical - fantasy setting can be a source of strength. It can give the characters the courage to face challenges, whether it's a battle against an evil sorcerer or the rigid social structures of the time. Consider a story where two female characters from different social classes fall in love and have to overcome not only class differences but also the prejudice against their relationship.
The most popular ones include 'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters. It's set in the Victorian era and has a complex plot involving two women. 'The Price of Salt' is also very popular. Its movie adaptation 'Carol' also brought more attention to it. Another popular one is 'Tipping the Velvet' which has vivid descriptions of the lesbian experience in the 19th - century.
'Ammonite' by Nicola Griffith is set in a far - future, post - apocalyptic world, but still has elements of historical fiction in how it builds its society. The main character is a paleontologist, and there is a strong lesbian relationship at the heart of the story. It's a thought - provoking read that combines elements of different genres while still being centered around a lesbian relationship.