Rules of Civility

I loved this exploration of NYC during a period brimming with elegance, ambition, and an unmistakable vibrancy. Towles' depiction of the city transports readers to a time when New York was characterized not by the ubiquity of Duane Reade stores but by the glamour of jazz clubs, refined social gatherings, and the undercurrents of ambition that defined its residents.

The novel centers on Katey Kontent, a sharp and ambitious young woman navigating the complexities of Manhattan's social scene. Through Katey's eyes, Towles paints a vivid picture of a city alive with possibilities, where chance encounters in smoky jazz clubs or at elegant parties could lead to life-altering friendships and romances.

This New York is one of hidden speakeasies, clandestine love affairs, and a relentless pursuit of the American Dream—a stark contrast to the homogenized cityscape dominated by convenience stores and corporate chains seen today.

One of the most compelling aspects of “Rules of Civility” is its ability to evoke a deep sense of nostalgia. Towles' New York is a place of dreams, where the city's underbelly thrums with an exciting and sometimes dangerous energy. The narrative is infused with a longing for a bygone era, offering readers a glimpse into the gritty yet glamorous life of the city's past. The characters are richly drawn, their interactions and evolutions reflecting the complexities of the time.

The novel's prose is elegant and evocative, capturing the essence of the city in a way that makes it feel both grand and intimate. Towles' attention to detail and his ability to create vivid, atmospheric scenes allow readers to immerse themselves fully in Katey's world. The story's progression, marked by moments of joy, heartbreak, and discovery, mirrors the unpredictable yet exhilarating nature of the city itself.