Patience & Sarah
Patience & Sarah
Book Brief
Beta225
Novel • Fiction
Connecticut • 19th century
2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Patience & Sarah by Isabel Miller is a historical novel set in the 19th century, highlighting the journey of two women, Patience and Sarah, who defy societal norms to pursue a life together. They confront challenges and societal expectations while nurturing their relationship and seeking a place where they can live freely and openly.
Romantic
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Bittersweet
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
5,282 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Patience & Sarah by Isabel Miller is praised for its tender portrayal of a same-sex relationship in the 19th century, highlighting its groundbreaking nature for LGBTQ+ literature. Many appreciate the charming, realistic character development and emotional depth. However, some critique the pacing as slow. Overall, it remains a cherished classic for its historical and cultural significance.
Who Should Read Patience & Sarah?
A reader who enjoys Patience & Sarah by Isabel Miller likely appreciates historical fiction and LGBTQ+ themes. Fans of The Color Purple by Alice Walker and Fingersmith by Sarah Waters, which explore similar themes of love and identity, would find this romantic tale set in early 19th-century America engaging.
5,282 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Patience & Sarah was originally self-published by Isabel Miller in 1969 under the title A Place for Us, and she sold copies on street corners in Greenwich Village.
The book won the first Stonewall Book Award, which is presented by the American Library Association to works of exceptional merit relating to the gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender experience, in 1971.
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Isabel Miller chose her pen name by combining an anagram of "lesbia" and her mother's maiden name, "Miller," reflecting her personal connection to the novel's themes.
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225
Novel • Fiction
Connecticut • 19th century
2005
Adult
18+ years
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