3.82 AVERAGE


The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis is set in and around the New York Public Library. This beginning of using an iconic New York City building is one of the things I have loved about Fiona Davis's books. Unfortunately, for its extremist treatment of a feminist point of view, for its introduction of a romance into what was proceeding to be a story of independence, for its ending, and for the fact the book did not include enough about its historic setting, this book was not for me.

Read my complete review at http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2020/03/the-lions-of-fifth-avenue.html

Reviewed for NetGalley.

Fiona Davis is definitely a favorite historical fiction author of mine. I love the dual timelines, strong female characters, elements of a mystery, and the history of a significant place included in all of her novels. Featuring the NYPL, this one is definitely one of my favorites of hers!

Why do I keep doing this to myself?? I never like any of her books and yet I keep picking them up. Both stories and women were so lame and felt half developed. Sometimes it felt like the author was really heavy handed in trying to relay a message and not telling the story. I’d like to think that this will finally be my last Fiona Davis book fear I will fall in the same hole when she releases another one....how annoying
mysterious sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I loved spending time in the NY Public Library, a place I visited numerous times when I worked only 1 block away - it was lovely to dash over to walk the halls and Bryant Park for a quick lunch break. This book lovingly describes the physical space and the important cultural space of this institution. The story is solid - the dual timelines complementing each other. My mom recommended I read this and I appreciated our shared love of books and reading by listening to it with her in mind.

NetGalley ARC | I just love historical fiction and books that take place in libraries. Head to the NYPL in both the past and present to solve the case of the missing rare books.

I appreciated the feminist edge, LGBTQ+ love story, and just overall adoration and appreciation for literature. With light suspense, this is the perfect summer read.

You can see my full review along with other August 2020 book releases on The Uncorked Librarian here: https://www.theuncorkedlibrarian.com/august-2020-book-releases/.

Thank you so much to the author and publisher for providing me with a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
terri24601's profile picture

terri24601's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH

2021: 46% in. While I like the premise of two stories of two women generations apart, I’ve lost interest in both. Moving on.

It was a lovely story that had me hooked from the first chapter.
emotional mysterious reflective sad medium-paced
adventurous emotional informative mysterious reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Mentions LBG situation, otherwise I did like the book.