Shrines of Gaiety by Kate Atkinson is a fictional novel set in 1926 London that follows Nellie Coker, a renowned nightclub owner, as she navigates attempts to dismantle her business by corrupt policeman Sergeant Arthur Maddox and determined private investigator Frobisher, while intertwining with the stories of Gwendolen Kelling, a woman searching for two runaway girls, Freda and Florence. The book contains descriptions of alcohol addiction, drug overdose, death by suicide, capital punishment, abortion, and sexual assault.

Kate Atkinson's Shrines of Gaiety is praised for its vibrant depiction of 1920s London nightlife, with compelling characters and intricately woven narratives. Critics appreciate its historical detail and witty prose. However, some find its multiple storylines hard to follow at times. Overall, readers laud its rich atmosphere and engaging plot.

Readers who savor intricate historical settings and rich character development, akin to fans of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters, will be captivated by Kate Atkinson's Shrines of Gaiety. This novel masterfully intertwines crime, drama, and wit against the backdrop of 1920s London.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Dark / Emotional / Gritty

Kate Atkinson

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

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Shrines of Gaiety Summary and Study Guide

Background

Shrines of Gaiety Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-10

Shrines of Gaiety Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-21

Shrines of Gaiety Chapters 11-21 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 22-34

Shrines of Gaiety Chapters 22-34 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 35-45

Shrines of Gaiety Chapters 35-45 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 46-56

Shrines of Gaiety Chapters 46-56 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 57-68

Shrines of Gaiety Chapters 57-68 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Shrines of Gaiety Character Analysis

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Themes

Shrines of Gaiety Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Shrines of Gaiety Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Shrines of Gaiety Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Shrines of Gaiety Essay Topics

Shrines of Gaiety

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Shrines of Gaiety?

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Book Details