I read both 'Tipping the Velvet' and 'Fingersmith' and absolutely fell in love with the rich and detailed stories the author spins. The books contain so much that I was a little unsure whether a movie would ever be able to match up to Sarah Waters' wonderful writing.
Much to my surprise, the acting, costumes, and story were as carefully and beautifully done as the books themselves. It's obvious that the screenwriter(s) and director took pains to maintain the integrity of the story, with the same amount of grace and delicacy Waters uses in her book.
I recommend the book first and foremost, but once you finish it, you will definitely want to get this DVD!