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  • Desert of the Heart

  • A Novel
  • Written by: Jane Rule
  • Narrated by: Traci Odom
  • Length: 7 hrs and 46 mins
  • 4.2 out of 5 stars (5 ratings)

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Desert of the Heart

Written by: Jane Rule
Narrated by: Traci Odom
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Publisher's Summary

"A landmark work of lesbian fiction" and the basis for the acclaimed film Desert Hearts (The New York Times).

Against the backdrop of Reno, Nevada, in the late 1950s, award-winning author Jane Rule chronicles a love affair between two women.

When Desert of the Heart opens, Evelyn Hall is on a plane that will take her from her old life in Oakland, California, to Reno, where she plans to divorce her husband of 16 years. A voluntary exile in a brave new world, she meets a woman who will change her life.

Fifteen years younger, Ann Childs works as a change apron in a casino. Evelyn is instantly drawn to the fiercely independent Ann, and their friendship soon evolves into a romantic relationship. An English professor who had always led a conventional life, Evelyn suddenly finds all her beliefs about love, morality, and identity called into question. Peopled by a cast of unforgettable characters, this is a novel that dares to ask whether love between two women can last.

Contains mature themes.
©1964 Jane Rule (P)2020 Tantor
  • Unabridged Audiobook
  • Categories: LGBTQ2S+
Literature & Fiction Romance LGBTQ2S+ Classics Women's Fiction Literary Fiction Love & Romance
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What listeners say about Desert of the Heart

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Profile Image for Jennifer

Beautiful story

This is a beautifully written non-fiction novel. It seems like it could be a precursor to Carol by Patricia Highsmith. If you like a woman centred nice love story I recommend this book.

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Profile Image for Sarah H

An old and new favourite

The prose of Jane Rule's writing reaches me as deeply now as when I first read this novel, years ago. Traci Odom's performance of it could not have been more perfect. She brings the words to life and adds a new level of humanity to the story.

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