by F. Anstey
About this book
F. Anstey's The Tinted Venus is a gleefully absurd comic fantasy that begins with a misplaced ring and a statue that refuses to behave like stone. Set in late-Victorian England, this witty novel of manners follows a newly engaged gentleman whose attempt to prove a point in an amusement garden leads to a ring lodged on the finger of an exquisitely carved Venus. From that small, ridiculous incident unfolds a satirical tale of desire, social pretence, and the collision between classical beauty and modern mores.
Anstey blends gentle fantasy with sharp social comedy, skewering late-19th-century courtship rituals, gender expectations, and the hypocrisies of polite society. The narrative delights in farcical situations and sparkling dialogue, letting a supernatural premise illuminate human folly without sacrificing warmth. Readers will find both laugh-out-loud scenes and a knowing critique of Victorian romantic ideals.
Ideal for fans of comic fantasy, Victorian literature, and literary satire, this audiobook is perfect for listeners who enjoy playful, character-driven stories that pair supernatural twists with social observation. Tune in for a charming, thought-provoking romp that proves how a tiny ring can unsettle an entire world.
