Ellis Avery

Ellis Avery (1972-2019) was an award-winning American writer known for her historical fiction and memoir writing. She achieved the unique distinction of being the only author to win two Stonewall Book Awards, for her novels "The Teahouse Fire" (2008) and "The Last Nude" (2013). Her debut novel, "The Teahouse Fire," garnered multiple accolades including a Lambda Literary Award for Lesbian Debut Fiction and an Ohioana Library Fiction Award in 2007. Set in late 19th century Japan, the novel explores themes of cultural immersion and identity through the lens of the Japanese tea ceremony. "The Last Nude" (2012), her second novel, was inspired by the Art Deco painter Tamara de Lempicka and is set in 1920s Paris. Prior to her death in 2019, Avery also published a memoir titled "The Family Tooth" (2015), with her final work "Tree of Cats" being published posthumously.

Readers appreciate Avery's detailed historical research, particularly in "The Teahouse Fire" which depicts 1880s Japan. Reviews highlight her vivid sensory descriptions and handling of complex relationships. Positive reviews mention: - Authentic portrayal of Japanese tea ceremony culture - Strong LGBTQ representation in both "The Teahouse Fire" and "The Last Nude" - Clean, precise prose style Common criticisms: - Slow pacing, especially in first half of novels - Some characters lack emotional depth - Historical details sometimes overshadow plot Ratings: The Teahouse Fire - Goodreads: 3.8/5 (1,800+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.1/5 (90+ reviews) The Last Nude - Goodreads: 3.6/5 (1,300+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.0/5 (70+ reviews) Several reviewers note abandoning "The Teahouse Fire" before completion due to pacing issues, though those who finish often give high marks for the novel's conclusion.

The Teahouse Fire (2006) Set in late 19th century Japan, this historical novel follows an American orphan who becomes immersed in the world of traditional tea ceremonies while navigating complex relationships and cultural transitions.

The Last Nude (2012) A historical fiction set in 1920s Paris that depicts the relationship between Art Deco painter Tamara de Lempicka and her young model Rafaela Fano.

The Family Tooth (2015) A memoir chronicling the author's experiences with chronic illness, grief, and family relationships.

Tree of Cats (2019) A posthumously published work exploring themes of mortality and resilience through interconnected narratives.

Sarah Waters writes historical fiction centered on LGBTQ+ characters in Victorian and wartime Britain, with similar attention to period detail as Avery. Her works like "Tipping the Velvet" and "The Paying Guests" explore themes of identity and forbidden relationships within carefully researched historical settings.

Amy Bloom crafts narratives that blend historical events with intimate personal stories, similar to Avery's approach in "The Last Nude." Her novel "White Houses" examines the relationship between Eleanor Roosevelt and Lorena Hickok, combining historical accuracy with complex character studies.

Julie Otsuka writes about Japanese and Japanese-American experiences with a focus on cultural identity and historical periods. Her novels "The Buddha in the Attic" and "When the Emperor Was Divine" share themes with "The Teahouse Fire" in their exploration of Japanese culture and tradition.

Emma Donoghue creates historical fiction based on real events and people, with detailed research supporting her narratives. Her work includes LGBTQ+ themes and historical settings, as seen in "Life Mask" and "The Sealed Letter."

Monique Truong explores themes of cultural displacement and identity through historical fiction set in various time periods. Her novel "The Book of Salt" shares similarities with Avery's work in its examination of outsider perspectives in historical settings.