Is Sarah Waters A-List?
No — Sarah Waters is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Ranking Timeline
*Tipping the Velvet* Debut
Waters' first novel gains critical attention for its lesbian themes and historical setting.
*Fingersmith* further acclaim
Fingersmith is published and shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize.
*The Night Watch* Publication
Solidifies Waters' reputation as a successful novelist; is also shortlisted for awards.
*The Little Stranger* Published
Waters publishes another successful novel in a slightly different genre.
*The Paying Guests* Adaptation
Adaptation and continued book sales increase Waters' wealth and recognition.
A Leading Voice Today
Waters remains a prominent figure in contemporary literature, known for her historical fiction and LGBTQ+ representation.
Last updated: February 25, 2026