Sexing the Cherry

Sexing The Cherry is a 1989 novel, a surrealist work of historical fiction by Jeanette Winterson. The "present" of the novel is arguably the 17th century, with references to Charles I, King of England and Oliver Cromwell as contemporary figures.

It follows two main characters: Dog Woman and her adopted son Jordan through their journeys and searches for love. Dog Woman is a grotesque and outspoken woman who hates the Puritan church and Jordan is an idealistic dreamer who is chasing after a princess he loves who may or may not exist. The novel is criticized for its ending which to some people feels tacked on. Your Mileage May Vary.

This novel contains examples of

 * Abhorrent Admirer: Dog Woman to the boy she loves in her youth.
 * All Abusers Are Male: Suggested somewhat Anviliciously.
 * Belief Makes You Stupid: Averted with Dog Woman, played straight with the Puritans.
 * Corrupt Church: The Puritan church.
 * Does Not Like Men: Dog Woman for the most part has a low opinion of men despite being mostly heterosexual, Jordan being an exception.
 * The Grotesque: See "squick."
 * Les Yay: Lots with the dancing princesses.
 * Meaningful Name: Jordan was named after a river, which Dog Woman regrets.
 * Sex Equals Love: The words "sex" and "love" are used rather interchangeably. Love that is not filled with sex doesn't seem to count.