61 pages • 2 hours read
Confessions of the Fox
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Book Brief
352
Novel • Fiction
London • 18th century
2018
One World
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Jordy Rosenberg's Confessions of the Fox, 21st-century transgender scholar Dr. Voth discovers a manuscript claiming to be the confessions of Jack Sheppard, an 18th-century thief reimagined as a transgender man. While annotating it, Voth notices parallels with his own experiences and the enigmatic manuscript contents. As a pharmaceutical company pressures him, Voth uncovers a hidden recipe related to testosterone therapy. The novel explores themes of gender identity, rebellion, and historical narrative, portraying Jack’s journey for freedom amidst political oppression. This book includes depictions of sexuality, gender dysphoria, violence, and police brutality.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Romantic
Gritty
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
4,581 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Rosenberg’s Confessions of the Fox captivates with its inventive blend of historical fiction and queer theory. Praised for its rich, multi-layered narrative and audacious reimagining of historical figures, the novel occasionally meanders with its dense prose and theoretical interludes. However, its unique voice and thought-provoking content have garnered significant acclaim.
Who Should Read Confessions of the Fox?
Readers who enjoy Confessions of the Fox by Jordy Rosenberg are likely enthusiasts of historical fiction with a queer perspective. Comparable to Fingersmith by Sarah Waters and The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead, this novel appeals to those who appreciate intricate plots, rich historical settings, and identity exploration.
4,581 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Bess Kahn
Bess Kahn
A sex worker of south-Asian descent and Jack's love interest, who uses her wit and insight to navigate the complexities of race and society while dreaming of a different future with Jack.
Aurie Blake
Aurie Blake
Jack's best friend and partner in crime, a man of Afro-Roman descent and a skilled thief who introduces Jack to professional thieving and offers him a sense of community.
Jonathan Wild
Jonathan Wild
A historical figure reimagined as a criminal kingpin in London, who manipulates the law and exploits vulnerable thieves like Jack and Aurie while profiting from a system of legally sanctioned crime.
352
Novel • Fiction
London • 18th century
2018
One World
Adult
18+ years
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