Reviews - The Lions of Fifth Avenue

1.83k reviews for:

The Lions of Fifth Avenue
by Fiona Davis
4.5/5⭐️

The Lions of Fifth Avenue is an engaging mix of historical fiction and mystery set against the backdrop of New York City’s iconic Public Library. Using a dual-timeline approach, the story weaves together the stories of two women connected by blood and literary secrets.

In 1913, we meet Laura Lyons, the wife of the library´s superintendent. She lives in the library with him and their children. As she studies journalism and becomes involved in the women’s rights movement, Laura begins to question her domestic role. Meanwhile, rare books disappear from the library. Fast forward to 1993, where we meet Sadie Donovan, Laura’s granddaughter, and a curator at the same library. When thefts disrupt a new exhibit, Sadie must confront her family’s hidden secrets to uncover truths that could change history.

Both stories bring the New York Public Library to life, blending its greatness with mystery. I found myself engaged by both Laura and Sadie. And again, this building was one of the highlights of my trip, so I highly enjoyed reading about it. This book has a lot going for it, and I recommend it to fans of historical fiction with strong female characters or those planning to visit NYC soon.

aliolasinscott's review against another edition

4.0

hopeful informative mysterious reflective medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

lyssabyss's review against another edition

4.0

adventurous funny informative mysterious medium-paced

shesalwaysreading's review against another edition

3.75

emotional mysterious medium-paced

3.75/5 stars, rounded up to 4 on Goodreads. Pretty solid book from Fiona Davis. In general I like her writing. Enjoyed the history of the NY public library. Thought there were a couple odd subplots but it came together by the end.