Books Set In New York During the 1920s Jazz Age
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For readers who are fascinated by the Jazz Age era, this list of books set in New York in the 1920s offers a journey through the highs and lows of a city at the center of the Roaring Twenties. The 1920s in New York City were a time of vibrant change, marked by the glitz of the Jazz Age, the rise of speakeasies, and the clash between old-world values and new social freedoms. It was an era where the city never slept, and stories of ambition, love, and power were written in the very fabric of its streets.
From the glittering ballrooms of Manhattan to the gritty speakeasies hidden in shadowy alleys, these novels capture the essence of a city in flux. Whether you’re drawn to romance, mystery, or the pursuit of the American Dream, the books in this list provide a window into a time when New York was a beacon of both opportunity and excess.
Key Takeaways: Books Set In New York During the Jazz Age
- A curated list of novels set in New York City and beyond, spanning genres from romance to mystery.
- Books that capture the vibe and personality of New York, from its historic streets to its modern skyline.
- Great picks, whether you’re planning a trip, missing the city, or just love stories that feel New York.
- Includes both classic favorites and contemporary releases with strong New York settings.
Books Set In New York In the 1920s
- A Certain Age by Beatriz Williams
- The Other Typist by Suzanne Rindell
- Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen
- The Girls at the Kingfisher Club by Genevieve Valentine
- The Diviners by Libba Bray
- Passing by Nella Larsen
- A Fine Imitation by Amber Brock
List of Books Set In New York In the 1920s (Detailed Summaries)
A Certain Age by Beatriz Williams
New York socialite Theresa Marshall is swept into a scandalous affair with a younger man during the height of the Roaring Twenties, leading to a series of dangerous entanglements. The novel captures the excitement and moral complexities of the Jazz Age.
The Other Typist by Suzanne Rindell
Rose Baker, a proper typist for a New York City police precinct, is drawn into a world of speakeasies and deceit when she meets the glamorous and mysterious Odalie. The boundaries of morality and identity blur as Rose’s fascination with her coworker deepens.
Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen
In the summer of 1929, three young women—Letty, Cordelia, and Astrid—arrive in New York City seeking fame, fortune, and love. Amidst the glittering lights and glamorous parties, they discover that the city holds both dazzling opportunities and dangerous secrets.
The Girls at the Kingfisher Club by Genevieve Valentine
Set in the 1920s, this retelling of the fairy tale “The Twelve Dancing Princesses” follows the lives of twelve sisters who escape their oppressive father by sneaking out to dance in New York City speakeasies. The novel captures the energy and danger of the Jazz Age as the sisters find freedom on the dance floor.
The Diviners by Libba Bray
Set in 1920s New York City, this novel follows Evie O’Neill, a young woman with a unique supernatural ability. As she becomes entangled in a series of mysterious and gruesome murders, Evie explores the glamorous, yet dark, underbelly of the city during the Jazz Age.
Passing by Nella Larsen
Set in 1920s Harlem, this novel tells the story of two African American women, Irene and Clare, who can “pass” as white. As their lives intersect and their identities blur, the novel explores themes of race, identity, and the social pressures of the Jazz Age.
A Fine Imitation by Amber Brock
Set in 1920s New York City, this novel follows Vera Bellington, a high-society woman who becomes enthralled with an enigmatic artist who challenges her perceptions of love, art, and her place in the world. The story delves into the glamour and secrets of Manhattan’s elite during the Jazz Age.
Frequently Asked Questions About Books Set In New York
What makes New York such a popular setting for books?
New York’s mix of history, diversity, and constant energy makes it an ideal backdrop for storytelling – authors can capture everything from glitzy high society to gritty street-level drama.
Are the books in this list only set in New York?
Most are set in the city itself, but some expand to the wider state of New York to show different landscapes and lifestyles.
Do you need to be familiar with New York to enjoy these books?
Not at all! These novels are written so that even readers who have never visited can still feel immersed in the atmosphere of New York.
Which genre has the most books set in New York?
Thrillers and mysteries dominate, but romance and literary fiction also frequently use New York as a backdrop.
Quick Shopping Guide – Books Set In New York
Conclusion
As we close this look at New York in the Roaring Twenties, it’s clear why the Jazz Age remains one of the most fascinating eras in American history. From glamorous ballrooms to underground speakeasies, these novels capture the city’s contradictions – wealth and poverty, freedom and restraint, love and betrayal.
Whether you’re new to historical fiction or already a fan of Jazz Age stories, this list offers a perfect mix of classics and contemporary favorites. Explore more of our books set in the 1920s or browse our historical fiction guides for even more unforgettable reads.
