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55 pages 1 hour read

Rules of Civility

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011

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Book Brief

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Amor Towles

Rules of Civility

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1930s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Published in 2011, Rules of Civility is American author Amor Towles’ acclaimed debut novel set at the end of the 1930s during The Great Depression. The narrative follows spunky roommates Katey Kontent and Evelyn Ross as they make their way up the social ladder in New York society, exploring themes of identity, class struggle, love, betrayal, choice, friendship, and wants versus needs in noirish prose.

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Emotional

Romantic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

287,424 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rules of Civility by Amor Towles captures readers with its elegant prose and vivid depiction of 1930s New York. Praise centers on its richly drawn characters and atmospheric setting, while criticisms note occasional lapses in plot momentum. Overall, it stands out for its stylish storytelling and transportive quality.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Rules of Civility ?

Fans of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter will relish Rules of Civility by Amor Towles. This novel appeals to readers who enjoy richly detailed historical fiction, vivid 1930s New York City settings, and intricate tales of ambition, love, and social dynamics.

4.2

287,424 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

KATEY KONTENT

Katey is the narrator and main character of the story. In her mid-20s during the main events of the narrative, she is smart, well-read, and adept at reading people. She loves _Walden_ and Agatha Christie novels. As she navigates New York alongside friends and changing social classes, she experiences personal and professional growth.

Evelyn, known as Eve, is Katey's best friend and roommate from Indiana. Despite her wealthy background, she chooses to be independent in New York. Eve struggles with jealousy and anger, particularly in relation to Tinker Grey. Following a car accident, she faces physical challenges and significant changes in her life.

Tinker, also called Theodore or Teddy, is a charming banker who appears to come from a wealthy background. However, his history is marked by financial difficulties due to his father's actions. Tinker is linked to Anne Grandyn and faces moral and personal struggles throughout the story, including a significant incident that affects Eve.

Wallace is an old friend of Tinker’s, from a wealthy family but prefers a simpler lifestyle. He is sensible and kind, avoiding ostentation and enjoying personal connections. He and Katey develop a friendship after trying to understand their compatibility as more than friends.

Anne is a wealthy woman from old money who initially appears as Tinker's godmother but is later revealed as his lover. She is intelligent, confident, and accustomed to having her way, and serves as a foil to Katey.

Hank, or Henry, is Tinker's older brother and an artist living modestly. Although he is critical of Tinker's choices, he has a complex relationship with him, sometimes supporting and illuminating Tinker's character for Katey.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1930s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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