“The Lions of Fifth Avenue” by Fiona Davis 

Read via audiobook.

A captivating mix of history, mystery, romance, and suspense!

Synopsis:

New York City- 1913: 

Laura Lyons and her family have recently found themselves making the New York Public Library their home. When Laura’s husband, Jack, becomes the superintendent of the library, Laura, Jack, and their two children move into the built-in apartment. Inspired by Jack’s passion for writing, Laura becomes bored with domestic life and begins taking a journalism course at Columbia University. The events she covers for her class make Laura question the traditional family dynamic, and she starts pushing the boundaries of her life. Unfortunately, books thefts are spiraling at the library, and Laura is forced to face her priorities head-on.  

New York City- 1993:

After the departure of a colleague, Sadie Donavon, granddaughter of Laura Lyons, is promoted to curator of the Berg Collection. The opportunity is a dream come true for Sadie, and she relishes in finding rare items for the collection. When books and other rare exhibit items go missing, Sadie must dive headfirst into her controversial family history during the investigation. Could there possibly be a connection between the thefts of 1913 and 1993?

Rating: 4/5 

Review:

I love historical fiction, and this was no exception. Although slow to begin, the book really picks up! It was a welcome break to historical novels set during the wars. There’s enough drama and mystery to keep you turning the pages while keeping the atmosphere light. Initially, I thought the concept of stolen books might be a little boring. I was so wrong!

In the chapters about Laura, I enjoyed her exploration outside of the traditional family dynamic. With sexism rampant and the LGBTQIA+ community highly controversial, and mostly hidden, in the early 20th century, I really admired Laura’s courage to push the boundaries. 

How Davis connects the two stories generations apart kept me hooked! I kept trying to figure out what similarities the thefts had. Oh, and what’s a mystery novel without a good twist? This one did not let me down! 

Conclusion:

This book has it all- history, romance, mystery, and suspense. “The Lions of Fifth Avenue” is an enchanting mystery for book lovers everywhere!

Amazon: The Lions of Fifth Avenue

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