Discover the Best Prostitution Books in the 2024 Updated Edition

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The Crimson Petal and the White

by Michel Faber

The Crimson Petal and the White is a compelling historical novel that delves into the gritty underworld of Victorian London. Set in the 1870s, the book follows the intertwining lives of a young prostitute named Sugar and a wealthy businessman named William Rackham. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a world of deceit, desire, and desperation, where the line between morality and survival is blurred. This book on prostitution offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities faced by women in the sex trade during this era. With vivid prose and intricate character development, Michel Faber’s novel is a captivating exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the power dynamics at play in a society rife with exploitation and inequality.

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Slammerkin

by Emma Donoghue

Slammerkin by Emma Donoghue is a mesmerizing historical novel that delves into the gritty underworld of 18th-century London. The story follows the journey of Mary, a young girl who escapes her rural life to seek a better future in the city. However, the harsh reality of poverty and desperation leads her into a world of vice and depravity, ultimately becoming a prostitute. Donoghue’s vivid and evocative writing brings to life the sordid streets and the desperate struggle for survival in a society where women’s options are limited. The novel explores the complexities of power, desire, and exploitation, offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of the life of a slum prostitute. Slammerkin is a haunting and powerful book about prostitution that will leave a lasting impression on readers.

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The Price of Salt

by Patricia Highsmith

The Price of Salt, written by Patricia Highsmith, is a captivating novel that tells the story of Therese Belivet, a young woman who falls in love with an older, married woman named Carol Aird. Set in the 1950s, the novel explores the complexities of their forbidden love and the societal pressures they face. The novel delves into themes of desire, identity, and the pursuit of happiness, all against the backdrop of a conservative and repressive era. With its evocative prose and compelling characters, The Price of Salt is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of love and longing. This novel is not a book about prostitution, but rather a powerful and poignant story of love and self-discovery.

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The Intimate Adventures of a London Call Girl

by Belle de Jour

The Intimate Adventures of a London Call Girl by Belle de Jour is a captivating memoir that offers a candid and unapologetic look into the world of high-end prostitution. Written with wit and honesty, the book takes readers on a journey through the author’s experiences as a call girl in London, offering a glimpse into the intimate and often complex relationships she forms with her clients. Belle de Jour’s compelling storytelling and sharp insights shed light on the realities of the sex industry, challenging traditional perceptions and sparking thought-provoking conversations about the nature of desire, power, and autonomy. This provocative and daring book about prostitution provides a unique and eye-opening perspective on a controversial and often misunderstood profession.

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The Whore’s Child and Other Stories

by Richard Russo

The Whore’s Child and Other Stories by Richard Russo is a captivating collection of short stories that delves into the complexities of human relationships. The stories explore themes of love, loss, and identity, drawing readers into the lives of the characters with poignant and often humorous prose. While the title story, “The Whore’s Child,” may suggest a focus on prostitution, the collection is actually a rich tapestry of diverse narratives, each with its own unique perspective on the human experience. Russo’s masterful storytelling and keen insight into the human psyche make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of human behavior and emotion.

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The Honest Courtesan: Veronica Franco, Citizen and Writer in Sixteenth-Century Venice

by Margaret F. Rosenthal

The Honest Courtesan: Veronica Franco, Citizen and Writer in Sixteenth-Century Venice by Margaret F. Rosenthal is a captivating exploration of the life of Veronica Franco, a renowned courtesan, poet, and writer in Renaissance Venice. This book delves into the complexities of Franco’s life, examining her role as a respected intellectual and a woman navigating the world of courtesanship in a society that often oppressed women. Rosenthal’s detailed research and engaging storytelling shed light on Franco’s remarkable accomplishments, offering a nuanced portrayal of a woman who defied societal expectations and carved out a place for herself in a male-dominated world. The Honest Courtesan is a fascinating and thought-provoking read, providing insight into the world of prostitution and female agency in sixteenth-century Venice.

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The Courtesan’s Revenge: Harriette Wilson, the Woman Who Blackmailed the King

by Frances Wilson

The Courtesan’s Revenge: Harriette Wilson, the Woman Who Blackmailed the King by Frances Wilson is a captivating biography that delves into the scandalous life of Harriette Wilson, a famous courtesan in Regency-era London. Wilson’s book provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-class prostitution and the power dynamics at play between courtesans and their wealthy, influential clients. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Frances Wilson brings to life the audacious and cunning Harriette Wilson, who not only became one of the most sought-after courtesans of her time but also managed to blackmail the King of England himself. The Courtesan’s Revenge is a compelling and revealing exploration of the complex and often exploitative relationships that existed within the world of high-society prostitution, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of this notorious profession.

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The Lost Sisterhood: Prostitution in America, 1900-1918

by Ruth Rosen

The Lost Sisterhood: Prostitution in America, 1900-1918 by Ruth Rosen is a captivating exploration of the complex and often overlooked history of sex work in the early 20th century. Rosen delves into the lives of the women who found themselves working in the world of commercialized sex, shedding light on their struggles, choices, and the societal forces that shaped their experiences. This thought-provoking book on prostitution offers a rich and nuanced analysis of the economic, social, and political contexts that influenced the lives of these women. Rosen’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the realities of sex work in the United States during this pivotal period. The Lost Sisterhood is a fascinating and important contribution to the study of prostitution in America.

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The Birth of the Pill: How Four Crusaders Reinvented Sex and Launched a Revolution

by Jonathan Eig

The Birth of the Pill by Jonathan Eig is a captivating narrative that delves into the fascinating story of how four individuals revolutionized the way the world views sex and contraception. Eig meticulously explores the lives and struggles of the crusaders who played pivotal roles in the development of the birth control pill, shedding light on their relentless pursuit of creating a revolutionary form of contraception. This book takes readers on a compelling journey through the social, political, and scientific landscape of the 20th century, offering a profound understanding of the impact of the pill on women’s rights, sexual liberation, and societal norms. It’s a groundbreaking account of how the birth control pill sparked a sexual revolution, challenging traditional views on reproduction and empowering women to take control of their bodies and destinies.

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The Life and Loves of a She-Devil

by Fay Weldon

The Life and Loves of a She-Devil by Fay Weldon is a captivating and darkly humorous novel that delves into the complexities of love, revenge, and self-discovery. The story follows Ruth, a plain and overlooked housewife who decides to take matters into her own hands after her husband leaves her for a glamorous romance novelist. What follows is a tale of transformation as Ruth reinvents herself and seeks revenge on her unfaithful husband and his lover. As she navigates through a world of deceit and betrayal, Ruth discovers her own power and resilience, ultimately leading to a shocking and satisfying conclusion. This compelling novel offers a thought-provoking exploration of relationships, identity, and the lengths one will go to in the pursuit of justice. With its compelling narrative and rich character development, this is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling story.

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The Happy Hooker: My Own Story

by Xaviera Hollander

The Happy Hooker: My Own Story is a candid and provocative autobiography by Xaviera Hollander, a former call girl and madam. In this infamous book on prostitution, Hollander shares her personal experiences and insights into the world of sex work, offering a unique perspective on the industry. With a frank and unapologetic tone, she delves into the complexities of her profession, the relationships she formed, and the societal attitudes towards sex and intimacy. The book about prostitution is a bold and unapologetic account that challenges traditional perceptions and sheds light on the realities of the sex trade. Hollander’s fearless and open approach makes this prostitution book a compelling and eye-opening read for those curious about the world of sex work.

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The Diary of a Manhattan Call Girl

by Tracy Quan

The Diary of a Manhattan Call Girl by Tracy Quan is a captivating and candid glimpse into the world of a high-end escort in New York City. The book offers a provocative and unapologetic exploration of the author’s experiences in the world of sex work, providing a unique perspective on the complexities and realities of this profession. Through Quan’s sharp and witty writing, readers are immersed in the day-to-day life of a call girl, learning about the challenges, pleasures, and unexpected moments that come with the territory. This book about prostitution is a thought-provoking and eye-opening read that challenges societal norms and offers a deeper understanding of the human experience. Whether you’re intrigued by the topic or interested in a raw and honest memoir, The Diary of a Manhattan Call Girl is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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The Scarlet Letter

by Nathaniel Hawthorne

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a classic novel set in 17th-century Puritan New England. The story follows Hester Prynne, a young woman who is publicly shamed and ostracized for committing adultery and bearing a child out of wedlock. Forced to wear a scarlet “A” on her chest as a mark of her sin, Hester struggles to rebuild her life while facing judgment and scrutiny from the judgmental community. As she grapples with the consequences of her actions, the novel delves into themes of sin, guilt, and redemption. The Scarlet Letter is a compelling exploration of the human condition, morality, and the consequences of societal judgment. It is a powerful and thought-provoking book that continues to resonate with readers today.

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The Painted Girls

by Cathy Marie Buchanan

The Painted Girls by Cathy Marie Buchanan is a captivating historical novel set in Belle Époque Paris. The story follows the lives of three sisters, Antoinette, Marie, and Charlotte, as they navigate the harsh realities of life in 1878, including poverty, hardship, and the lure of the nightlife in Paris. As they struggle to make ends meet, the sisters find themselves drawn to the world of ballet and the infamous Moulin Rouge. Buchanan expertly weaves together the themes of art, ambition, and the harsh realities of life as the sisters navigate the temptations and dangers of the city, including the dark underworld of prostitution. The Painted Girls is a beautifully written and gripping tale that explores the complexities of sisterhood, ambition, and the struggles faced by women in a society rife with poverty and exploitation.

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The Courtesan

by Alexandra Curry

The Courtesan by Alexandra Curry is a captivating historical fiction novel that takes readers on a journey through the life of a young girl in ancient China who is sold into a life of servitude and ultimately becomes a legendary courtesan. Set during the Tang Dynasty, the book delves into the intricacies of the ancient Chinese court and the world of courtesans, offering a glimpse into the lives of these influential and powerful women. The novel explores themes of love, power, and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in historical fiction or stories of female empowerment. With its rich historical detail and compelling narrative, The Courtesan is a must-read for anyone looking for a fascinating book about prostitution and the lives of courtesans.

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The Prostitutes’ Ball

by Stephen J. Cannell

The Prostitutes’ Ball is a gripping and gritty novel by Stephen J. Cannell that delves into the dangerous and seedy world of sex work. The story follows detective Shane Scully as he investigates the murder of a high-end prostitute in Los Angeles. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, deceit, and betrayal that leads him to the heart of the city’s underground prostitution ring. With pulse-pounding action and a cast of complex and compelling characters, this book about prostitution will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Cannell’s masterful storytelling and attention to detail make The Prostitutes’ Ball a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone looking for a gripping and thought-provoking read.

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The Crimson Rooms

by Katharine McMahon

The Crimson Rooms by Katharine McMahon is a captivating historical novel set in post-World War I London. This gripping story follows Evelyn Gifford, a young woman who becomes embroiled in a murder case while working as a legal secretary. As she delves into the case, she uncovers secrets that challenge her perceptions of love, duty, and justice. This intricately woven tale touches on themes of gender inequality, trauma, and societal expectations. The novel also provides a nuanced portrayal of the lives of women in the early 20th century, shedding light on the struggles and sacrifices they faced. McMahon’s vivid storytelling and richly developed characters make this a compelling read that will keep readers enthralled until the very end.

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The French Lieutenant’s Woman

by John Fowles

The French Lieutenant’s Woman by John Fowles is a captivating novel set in Victorian England. The story follows the complex and enigmatic Sarah Woodruff, a woman rumored to be a fallen woman, or in simpler terms, a prostitute. The novel explores themes of love, desire, and societal expectations as it delves into the scandalous relationship between Sarah and the French lieutenant, Charles Smithson. Fowles skillfully weaves together a tale of passion and intrigue, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the constraints of Victorian society. The novel’s rich historical detail and compelling characters make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. This is a book about prostitution but also about love, desire, and societal expectations.

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Brothel: Mustang Ranch and Its Women

by Alexa Albert

Brothel: Mustang Ranch and Its Women by Alexa Albert is a captivating book about prostitution that takes readers inside the infamous Nevada brothel. Dr. Albert, a Harvard Medical School graduate, conducted a groundbreaking study on the lives of the women who worked at the brothel, providing a rare and intimate look into their world. Through her research, she delves into the complex relationships, personal struggles, and the realities of working in the prostitution industry. The book is a thought-provoking exploration of the lives of these women, offering a deep understanding of their choices and experiences. Brothel is a compelling and eye-opening read that sheds light on a controversial industry and the women who navigate its challenges with resilience and strength.

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The Butcher’s Hook

by Janet Ellis

The Butcher’s Hook by Janet Ellis is a gripping historical novel set in 18th century London. The story follows Anne Jaccob, a headstrong and unconventional young woman who becomes entangled in a dangerous affair with a butcher’s apprentice. As her infatuation grows, Anne’s world is turned upside down, leading her to make drastic and shocking decisions. With its vivid and atmospheric portrayal of Georgian London, this book delves into the dark and seedy underbelly of the city, exploring themes of desire, obsession, and the constraints of society. The Butcher’s Hook is a compelling and darkly captivating tale that offers a unique perspective on the complexities of love, power, and survival in a time when women had little agency. This book is not just about love and obsession, but also about the harsh realities of life, and the exploitation of women, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in historical fiction and the world of the world’s oldest profession.