Minnie's Fiction Addiction

👀 First impressions:
Queer Georgians sets out to do something both necessary and joyful: reclaim the Georgian era from the idea that queerness is a modern invention. Anthony Delaney guides the reader through eighteenth century Britain, introducing real historical figures whose lives, relationships and identities challenge the neat, heterosexual narratives we are often taught. Drawing on letters, court records, art and gossip, the book paints a rich picture of a society that was far more complex and contradictory than popular history suggests. From aristocrats and artists to soldiers and socialites, Delaney brings these lives out of the footnotes and into the spotlight.

✅ What I Liked:
The real strength of this book lies in its warmth and accessibility. Delaney writes with clarity and enthusiasm, making academic research feel inviting rather than intimidating. The stories feel human rather than abstract, filled with longing, defiance, secrecy and joy. I particularly appreciated how the book balances pleasure and pain, acknowledging the dangers queer people faced while also celebrating their resilience, creativity and community. There is a strong sense of respect for the people being discussed, never reducing them to scandals or curiosities.

❎ What I didn’t Like:
At times, the structure can feel slightly episodic, with shorter sections that end just as you are fully immersed in a particular life. A little more depth in some chapters would have made an already engaging read even richer. Readers looking for heavy academic debate or theory might also find the tone more narrative than analytical, though that is very much part of its charm.

📚 Why You Should Read This Book:
If you enjoy history that challenges what you thought you knew, this book is an essential read. It is perfect for readers interested in LGBTQ+ history, the Georgian era, or anyone curious about how stories are shaped by who gets to tell them. It also works beautifully as a reminder that queer people have always existed, loved and left their mark, even when history tried to erase them.

💭 Final Thoughts:
Queer Georgians is celebratory, informative and quietly radical. It invites readers to rethink the past and, in doing so, better understand the present. Anthony Delaney succeeds in making history feel alive, relevant and inclusive without losing sight of the real people at its heart.

🛍️ Where to buy
To buy your own copy click HERE and HERE

Final Rating ★★★★ – A vibrant reclaiming of history