LGBTQ+ Literature Lesbian Pulp Paperback Collection 1959 to 1970 Mid Century Queer Publishing and Representation

Early Lesbian Pulp Novels

Collection

Mid-century lesbian pulp paperback collection, 1959–1970, documents the circulation of queer identity and same-sex desire within mass-market publishing during a period when LGBTQ+ representation was largely confined to coded or sensationalized formats. These novels emerged within a commercial paperback industry that both exploited and enabled the visibility of lesbian narratives, often presenting stories of desire, conflict, and social marginalization to a broad readership. Works attributed to Lawrence Block under pseudonyms are included, reflecting the participation of established authors in the production of queer-themed pulp fiction. Taglines such as “She’d come to New York to find someone to love… Then, she met Laura” and “Drifting and tormented, she was torn between giving herself to a woman, and selling herself to a man” demonstrate how publishers framed lesbian relationships within narratives of tension and discovery, while still introducing same-sex relationships into widely distributed print culture.

Collection of five mass-market paperback novels published between 1959 and 1970, primarily first editions, with one translated into English from a French edition. All volumes measure approximately 4.25 x 7 inches unless otherwise noted and feature illustrated or photographic cover art emphasizing female figures in close proximity. Titles include:
[1] Evans, Lesley. Strange Are The Ways of Love. Greenwich, Conn.: Fawcett Publications, 1959. First edition, first printing. Referenced in Grier for its inclusion of significant lesbian characters and narrative action.
[2] Fields, Vin [pseudonym of Irving A. Greenfield]. Who Seek In Shadow. Domino Books, 1965. First edition mass-market pulp exploring themes of sexual identity and economic survival.
[3] Lord, Sheldon [pseudonym of Lawrence Block]. The Sisterhood. New York: Beacon-Signal Books, 1963. Noted in Grier for its sympathetic portrayal of lesbian characters within the pulp genre.
[4] Leslie, Bill. Torment. International Publications, 1963. First American printing.
[5] Mayers, Bart. Eros Laughed. Hollywood: France Book, 1962. First American printing. 160 pages, measuring approximately 4.25 x 6.5 inches. Features a fold-out photographic cover by Sam Wu, associated with mid-century commercial and Playboy photography, with interior and rear cover text emphasizing same-sex relationships.

Produced during a period of censorship and social restriction, lesbian pulp fiction occupied a complex position within American print culture, simultaneously reinforcing stereotypes and providing one of the few accessible venues for queer representation prior to the gay liberation movement of the late 1960s and 1970s. The visual language of cover art and the framing of narratives reveal how publishers negotiated market demand and cultural taboo, contributing to the formation of a recognizable queer literary subgenre. Minor edge and spine wear consistent with handling; overall very good condition.

Item #19587

Price: $725.00