Books matching: 1920s london setting
17 result(s)
- #1
Save:A clever, quick, and refreshingly different romp through 1920s London with a memorable heroine. Enjoy it for the voice and wit; don’t expect a cookie-cutter romance.
"The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo" by Zen Cho is a novella set in the 1920s London, following the adventures of a Malaysian Chinese girl named Jade Yeo. Jade, a writer living in London, finds herself entangled in a romantic storyline after writing a scathing review of a prominent author's book. The story is told through diary entries, showcasing Jade's unique voice and her desire for adventure in a time where societal norms are evolving.
I had tea with the intolerable aunt today. Aunt Iris, the one who is so rich she has a new fur every year, and so mean she has installed a tip box by the door of every WC in her house, so you have to...May 2012•83 pages - #2
Save:An entertaining, cozy mystery with a delightful 1920s backdrop - ideal for anyone seeking a smart but breezy escape. Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let Posie Parker lead you through a charming romp of murder and mayhem!
Murder Offstage is set in 1920s London, a city still healing from the aftermath of World War I. The story revolves around Posie Parker, a young and struggling female private investigator. She specializes in discreet cases among London's elite but finds herself involved in a challenging murder investigation when an old friend seeks her help. With the support of her partner Len Irving and Inspector Lovelace, Posie navigates through twists and turns to solve the mystery of a stolen diamond and a series of murders related to a peculiar theater and an underground nightclub.
The writing style of L.B. Hathaway is engaging and reminiscent of classic detective fiction, drawing parallels to Agatha Christie. The narrative is well-paced, filled with charming characters and a light tone that makes for a delightful read. Although the story is not overly complex, it offers enough intrigue and red herrings to keep readers guessing. Hathaway crafts characters that are likable and grounded in their post-war realities, making this mystery a fun escape without excessive violence or overt themes, perfect for fans of light-hearted whodunits.
If you had looked very closely you would have seen that the cuffs of the man’s black jacket were just a little too shiny and threadbare for him to have been a regular hotel guest, and a snob would hav...June 2014•276 pages - #3
Save:A dazzling, intricate portrait of 1920s London society that challenges and entertains in equal measure - perfect for those who like their fiction smart, satirical, and a little unruly.
Aldous Huxley's 'Point Counter Point' is a literary tragi-comedy set in 1920s London, focusing on a circle of intellectuals, artists, and socialites. The novel delves into the contrasting philosophical and moral systems of its characters through their discussions and interactions. The story is based on conflict, friendships, infidelities, differing viewpoints, and the complexities of human relationships. Huxley's writing style is noted for its humor, intellectual depth, and perceptive analysis of characters, reminiscent of War and Peace in its complexity and insight.
The book is structured around the lives of various characters, each representing different facets of the human race, and explores themes such as passion versus reason, intellectual life versus physical life, and the individuality of each person within the larger societal framework. Huxley's use of philosophical discussions, humor, and references to literature and music adds layers of depth to the narrative, making it a compelling and intellectually stimulating read.
‘Not later than midnight.’ She might have reminded him of the time when he never went out in the evenings without her. She might have done so; but she wouldn’t; it was against her principles; she didn...1928•503 pages - #4
Save:In "The Sugared Game," the story picks up shortly after the first book, with Will being annoyed by Kim's disappearance once again. A chance visit to a nightclub leads to Will getting entangled in trouble related to a blackmail scheme and smuggling activities, all tied to Kim's past. As the plot unfolds, Will discovers Kim's involvement with the government, leading to a mix of mystery, romance, and danger. The book delves into the characters' relationships, particularly focusing on the dynamic between Will and Kim, set against the backdrop of 1920s London.
With the legal machinery of probate finally ground through, he was the official owner of his deceased uncle’s savings as well as his antiquarian and second-hand bookshop. He’d celebrated his new wealt...August 2020•287 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Will Darling Adventures ) - #5
Save:A smart, steamy, and utterly satisfying conclusion to a beloved trilogy - Subtle Blood delivers romance, suspense, and emotional depth in spades. If you've been rooting for Will and Kim, prepare for a truly rewarding finale!
Subtle Blood is the conclusion of The Will Darling Adventures trilogy where Will and Kim find themselves entangled in a murder investigation involving Kim's dysfunctional aristocratic family and the shady Zodiac organization. The book showcases a mix of romance, mystery, danger, and action, set in 1920s London, with a focus on the evolving relationship between Will and Kim as they navigate through high-stakes situations while uncovering dark secrets and facing dangerous adversaries.
The writing style of K.J. Charles in Subtle Blood is praised for its ability to immerse readers in a pulpy, gritty noir-ish London setting, filled with suspense, witty banter, romance, and well-crafted dialogue. The book features engaging characters like Will and Kim, whose relationship evolves steadily throughout the series, and is complemented by a page-turning mystery plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
That was his job these days, and it brought him into contact with a pretty peculiar lot of people. Right now he was selling them to a specialist antiquarian book dealer off the Charing Cross Road, whi...June 2021•289 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Will Darling Adventures ) - #6
Save:A charming, easy-read historical mystery perfect for fans of 1920s settings and classic British house party whodunits. Not the grittiest or most original, but thoroughly fun and ideal for anyone seeking a light, entertaining escape.
'Murder at Archly Manor' by Sara Rosett is a historical cozy mystery set in 1920s London. The story follows Olive Belgrave, a determined and spunky lady detective, who is hired by her high-society family to investigate the background of her cousin's mysterious fiancé. However, the investigation takes a dark turn when a murder occurs at a house party at Archly Manor, making Olive delve deeper into the secrets and motives of the guests. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, as Olive navigates through the British class system, sparkling conversations, and a web of suspects, ultimately leading to the unmasking of the murderer. Sara Rosett's writing style captures the essence of the Roaring Twenties, with well-developed characters, detailed settings, and a quick-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged till the end.
The tragic death at Archly Manor was widely reported in the newspapers. The coverage wasn’t surprising. A murder in high society always draws attention. Unfortunately, the articles were a combination...October 2018•255 pages - #7
Save:A vibrant, atmospheric romp through 1920s London nightlife - equal parts crime caper and character portrait - offering big fun for fans of historical fiction, though the scattered focus won't suit everyone.
'Shrines of Gaiety' by Kate Atkinson is a historical fiction novel set in 1920s London, focusing on the underworld of swinging Soho and the nightclubs owned by the enigmatic Nellie Coker. The story follows a cast of characters including Nellie herself, Detective Frobisher, librarian Gwendolen, and a runaway girl named Freda. The book delves into themes of corruption, abduction, gang warfare, and the decadent lifestyle of London's elites during the post-World War I era. Atkinson's writing style is described as atmospheric, with great character development and based on a real-life female speakeasy owner.
The plot of 'Shrines of Gaiety' is rich in action and interesting characters, drawing readers into the illicit world of London nightclubs and the challenges faced by Nellie Coker and her family. The narrative weaves together multiple storylines, including police corruption, missing teenagers, and revenge, creating a tapestry of intrigue and suspense. While some readers found the plot to be somewhat lacking in tension and depth, others appreciated the detailed period setting and the diverse range of characters brought to life by Atkinson's storytelling.
Ramsay had never played “Chemmy,” as these people referred to it, but it seemed surprisingly easy to get the hang of and he won a good deal more than he lost. As the night wore on, however, the balanc...September 2022•422 pages - #8
Save:A subtle, witty gem about personal growth and found family - perfect for those who appreciate smart, leisurely, character-rich period fiction.
'The Flowering Thorn' by Margery Sharp tells the story of Lesley Frewn, a London socialite who, after a romantic disappointment, decides to adopt an orphaned child. The book follows Lesley's transformation from a selfish society flirt to a responsible mother, as she navigates the challenges of raising the child in the countryside. The writing style is described as humorous, tart, engaging, and devoid of sentimentality, offering a refreshing take on a young woman's journey towards maturity and self-discovery.
There is good evidence for believing that an American gentleman staying at Beverley Court once so far forgot himself as to clean his shoes: what is probably not true is that the head boot-boy subseque...1933•335 pages - #9
Save:A heartwarming, atmospheric read that weaves two women's lives across decades in London. Not Lisa Jewell’s fastest or grittiest, but a lovely journey for those who enjoy character-driven, time-slip tales.
'Before I Met You' by Lisa Jewell is a dual timeline narrative that follows the stories of Betty in the early 1990s London and Arlette in the 1920s. Betty moves to Soho to uncover a mystery mentioned in her late step-grandmother's will, while Arlette's story unfolds during the Jazz Age in London. The book seamlessly weaves between the two timelines, exploring the journeys of both women as they navigate through exciting and heart-breaking experiences in the big city. The author, Lisa Jewell, skillfully merges both storylines together, creating a satisfying and bittersweet resolution that ties the narratives together in a captivating way.
The day and, in fact, the rest of Elizabeth Dean’s life, had started at Weymouth at an ungodly hour, continued on to a damp, windswept ferry across the Channel, and culminated in a silent drive across...July 2012•520 pages - #10
Save:Antic Hay is a clever, sometimes biting, satirical snapshot of the 1920s urban intelligentsia - funny and thoughtful in moments, but not for everyone. Approach if you love witty dialogue and period satire; skip if you want a gripping story or relatable heroes.
Antic Hay by Aldous Huxley is set in the early 1920s and follows a group of upper-class friends in London who spend their time discussing art, politics, and philosophy. The characters are portrayed as lost and lonely in a changing world, with the most interesting character being Myra Viveash. The plot revolves around Theodore Gumbril Jr., a teacher who quits his job to design pneumatic pants, and his interactions with various self-absorbed and directionless characters.
GUMBRIL,THEODORE GUMBRIL Junior, B.A. Oxon., sat in his oaken stall on the north side of the School Chapel and wondered, as he listened through the uneasy silence of half a thousand schoolboys to the...January 1923•314 pages
