Discover books similar to "Desert of the Heart"
Jane Rule
Desert of the Heart
3.91
"Desert of the Heart" by Jane Rule is a groundbreaking novel that explores the complexities of love and desire between two women in the 1950s. The story follows Evelyn, a middle-aged English professor who leaves her husband and moves to Reno, Nevada to establish residency and obtain a divorce. There, she meets and falls in love with Ann, a younger casino worker who is also going through a divorce. Rule's writing is both elegant and powerful, capturing the emotional turmoil and societal pressures that Evelyn and Ann face as they navigate their forbidden love. The novel is set against the stark, unforgiving backdrop of the Nevada desert, which serves as a metaphor for the isolation and loneliness that the characters experience. One of the strengths of "Desert of the Heart" is its nuanced portrayal of the characters' inner lives. Evelyn and Ann are fully realized, complex individuals, each with their own flaws and vulnerabilities. Rule explores their relationship with sensitivity and depth, avoiding sensationalism or stereotypes. The novel also offers a thoughtful critique of the societal norms and expectations of the time. Rule challenges the notion that love and desire can only exist between a man and a woman, and she exposes the hypocrisy and narrow-mindedness of those who seek to enforce these norms. "Desert of the Heart" is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. Its themes of love, identity, and self-discovery are as relevant now as they were when the novel was first published in 1964. Rule's masterful storytelling and insightful commentary make this a must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ literature or simply a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel...
List of books similar to "Desert of the Heart":
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A captivating love story between two women, Therese and Carol, set in 1950s New York. This book is a great match for 'Desert of the Heart' readers as it explores themes of forbidden love and self-discovery in a different yet equally engaging setting.
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Doris Lessing
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Virginia Woolf
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