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The Last Days of Night

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Graham Moore

The Last Days of Night

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1880s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Last Days of Night, a historical fiction novel by Graham Moore, follows young lawyer Paul Cravath in 1888 New York City as he navigates a legal battle between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse over the patent for the light bulb, with key participation from Nikola Tesla. Topics include accidental death, bribery, and manipulation by powerful figures in the fledgling electricity industry.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Informative

Contemplative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.3

51,781 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Graham Moore's novel The Last Days of Night is praised for its engaging portrayal of the electrifying rivalry between Edison and Westinghouse. Readers commend its historical accuracy and thrilling narrative but note some predictable plotting and simplified characterizations. Overall, it’s a well-researched, fascinating read that balances fact and fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Last Days of Night?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with a legal thriller twist will be captivated by The Last Days of Night by Graham Moore. Fans of books like The Alienist by Caleb Carr and The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson will appreciate its blend of historical detail and riveting narrative.

4.3

51,781 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Paul Cravath

A young, ambitious lawyer representing George Westinghouse in a high-stakes legal battle against Thomas Edison, known for his analytical mind and ambition to prove himself in high society.

A renowned and influential inventor celebrated for his role in developing the lightbulb, who engages in numerous legal and business conflicts to maintain his dominance in the electrical industry.

A competitive and confident business mogul leading Westinghouse Electric Company, known for his rivalry with Edison and support of Nikola Tesla's alternating current system.

An innovative and brilliant engineer whose visionary ideas and disinterest in commercial success set him apart from other inventors, contributing significantly to the development of alternating current technology.

A talented opera singer with a complex background, who becomes Paul’s love interest and is admired for her strength, wit, and compassion.

The resourceful mother of Agnes Huntington who orchestrates their rise from poverty to high society, always cautious of her past being uncovered.

The inventive creator of the telephone, who is known for his unique approach to innovation and plays a pivotal role in aiding Paul's legal endeavors.

A powerful financier with significant influence in the electrical industry, participating in strategic business moves and corporate alliances to shape the marketplace.

A journalist and former inventor responsible for a controversial campaign against alternating current, using dramatic demonstrations to influence public perception.

Tesla’s lawyer, who leverages his negotiation skills and scientific knowledge to secure favorable terms for Tesla in legal matters.

The supportive and serene wife of George Westinghouse, offering hospitality and encouragement in social and professional contexts.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1880s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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