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The House of Doors

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023

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Book Brief

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Tan Twan Eng

The House of Doors

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Penang, Malaysia • 1920s

Theme
Publication Year

2023

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The House of Doors by Tan Twan Eng is a 2023 historical and literary fiction novel that centers on Lesley Hamlyn's story of friendship and personal intrigues in 1920s Penang, intertwining with the visit of author W. Somerset Maugham. The narrative shifts between different timelines and perspectives, reflecting on themes like the interplay between history and fiction, colonialism’s influence, and complexities of relationships, mirroring events such as the Ethel Proudlock murder case and Maugham's short story "The Letter." This book includes discussions involving racism, sexism, adultery, and violence, including gun violence and rape.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Melancholic

Dark

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.3

19,857 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Eng's The House of Doors is praised for its lyrical prose and evocative depiction of Malaya, capturing the essence of colonial-era tension and identity crises. Some critics feel the pacing is uneven, with a few secondary characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's a rich historical tapestry that resonates with emotional depth and vivid imagery.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The House of Doors?

Readers who relish historical fiction with a lush, literary style will find The House of Doors by Tan Twan Eng captivating. Fans of The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen and The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, who appreciate intricate narratives and evocative settings, will particularly enjoy this novel's ambiance and depth.

4.3

19,857 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Penang, Malaysia • 1920s

Theme
Publication Year

2023

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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