40 pages • 1 hour read
Euphoria
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Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
New Guinea • 1930s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Inspired by the life of anthropologist Margaret Mead, Lily King's Euphoria follows Nell Stone, her husband Fen, and fellow anthropologist Andrew Bankson as they navigate the professional and personal tensions of fieldwork in 1930s New Guinea, leading to a love triangle that shapes their research and relationships. The novel explores themes including colonial exploitation, gender dynamics, and the intersections of intellectual and emotional life.
Contemplative
Emotional
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
107,758 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lily King's Euphoria is widely praised for its rich, evocative prose and complex characters. Many reviewers commend its compelling and thought-provoking narrative inspired by real anthropologists. However, some critics feel the pacing drags in parts and that certain subplots lack depth. Overall, it’s considered a deeply engaging and emotionally resonant read.
Who Should Read Euphoria?
Readers who enjoy Euphoria by Lily King are often captivated by historical fiction and deeply drawn to character-centric narratives that explore cultural and emotional depths. Fans of Circe by Madeline Miller or The Paris Wife by Paula McLain will appreciate the novel’s rich, evocative storytelling and intricate psychological exploration.
107,758 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
288
Novel • Fiction
New Guinea • 1930s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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