The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis has been well-received for its compelling dual timelines and rich historical detail, particularly its vivid depiction of the New York Public Library. While many appreciate its engaging mystery and well-drawn characters, some critiques mention predictable plot twists and a slower pace at times. Overall, it offers an intriguing exploration of women's roles and literary history.

Fans of historical fiction and book-centric mysteries will relish The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis. This novel will captivate readers who enjoyed The Library Book by Susan Orlean and The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles, blending rich historical details with riveting intrigue set in iconic New York City locales.

In 1913, Laura Lyons navigates her ambitions and family life while residing in the New York Public Library, getting involved in feminist movements and facing personal challenges. In 1993, her granddaughter Sadie Donovan, now a curator at the same library, grapples with a series of rare book thefts, uncovering family secrets that link past and present. The book contains a brief scene of violence against a child and mentions a death by suicide.

Mysterious / Nostalgic / Bittersweet / Emotional / Romantic

- The Lions of Fifth Avenue was a Good Morning America Book Club pick in 2020, highlighting its popularity and contemporary appeal.
- The book is set partly in the New York Public Library, a significant and iconic landmark of New York City, which plays a central role in the narrative.
- Author Fiona Davis specializes in historical fiction centered around New York City's landmarks, infusing real history with compelling fictional stories.

Fiona Davis

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Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Lions of Fifth Avenue and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-9

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Chapters 5-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-14

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Chapters 10-14 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 15-19

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Chapters 15-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-24

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Chapters 20-24 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 25-28

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Chapters 25-28 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Character Analysis

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Themes

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Lions of Fifth Avenue Essay Topics

The Lions of Fifth Avenue

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Lions of Fifth Avenue?

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Book Details