1.56k reviews for:

Shrines of Gaiety

Kate Atkinson

3.78 AVERAGE


3.75⭐️

This novel wasn't bad, but I never felt fully immersed with the characters. Not sure if it was just my mood at the time or if it was the book itself

lynda11's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH: 10%

Just couldn’t get into it. 
adventurous dark emotional funny mysterious sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous dark slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

This took me a long time to get oriented into, but ultimately was worth it.  All about the underworld in 1920s London and the lives and lies it created. The quantity of characters introduced was at first daunting, but once the action began, they were easy to discern. A satisfying ending helped - with all the loose ends tied up in a reasonable way.

I would've liked it more if the ending had been a tad more satisfying. Maybe even less abrupt.
emotional medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Very enjoyable novel about the nightlife of London in the 1920s as nightclub owner Nellie Coker schemes to stay one step ahead of the police and those who wish to destroy her. Lots of interesting characters who revolve around each other in a whirl of crime, destitution and glamour. A good read.
adventurous challenging dark emotional funny mysterious reflective tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Reminded me of One Good Turn, in the best way. Complex plot, 3D characters you wish you knew in real life, vivid setting. Wish I had read it sooner.
adventurous mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Found the ending really disappointing, didn't have a proper finish just sort of tapered out.