Published in 2011, Rules of Civility is American author Amor Towles’ acclaimed debut novel set at the end of the 1930s during The Great Depression. The narrative follows spunky roommates Katey Kontent and Evelyn Ross as they make their way up the social ladder in New York society, exploring themes of identity, class struggle, love, betrayal, choice, friendship, and wants versus needs in noirish prose.

Rules of Civility by Amor Towles captures readers with its elegant prose and vivid depiction of 1930s New York. Praise centers on its richly drawn characters and atmospheric setting, while criticisms note occasional lapses in plot momentum. Overall, it stands out for its stylish storytelling and transportive quality.

Fans of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter will relish Rules of Civility by Amor Towles. This novel appeals to readers who enjoy richly detailed historical fiction, vivid 1930s New York City settings, and intricate tales of ambition, love, and social dynamics.

Nostalgic / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Emotional / Romantic

**KATEY KONTENT**  
Katey is the narrator and main character of the story. In her mid-20s during the main events of the narrative, she is smart, well-read, and adept at reading people. She loves _Walden_ and Agatha Christie novels. As she navigates New York alongside friends and changing social classes, she experiences personal and professional growth.

**EVELYN ROSS**  
Evelyn, known as Eve, is Katey's best friend and roommate from Indiana. Despite her wealthy background, she chooses to be independent in New York. Eve struggles with jealousy and anger, particularly in relation to Tinker Grey. Following a car accident, she faces physical challenges and significant changes in her life.

**TINKER GREY**  
Tinker, also called Theodore or Teddy, is a charming banker who appears to come from a wealthy background. However, his history is marked by financial difficulties due to his father's actions. Tinker is linked to Anne Grandyn and faces moral and personal struggles throughout the story, including a significant incident that affects Eve.

**WALLACE WOLCOTT**  
Wallace is an old friend of Tinker’s, from a wealthy family but prefers a simpler lifestyle. He is sensible and kind, avoiding ostentation and enjoying personal connections. He and Katey develop a friendship after trying to understand their compatibility as more than friends.

**ANNE GRANDYN**  
Anne is a wealthy woman from old money who initially appears as Tinker's godmother but is later revealed as his lover. She is intelligent, confident, and accustomed to having her way, and serves as a foil to Katey.

**HANK GREY**  
Hank, or Henry, is Tinker's older brother and an artist living modestly. Although he is critical of Tinker's choices, he has a complex relationship with him, sometimes supporting and illuminating Tinker's character for Katey.

- Amor Towles was inspired by photos from a Walker Evans exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art when writing Rules of Civility, using these images to capture the essence of 1930s New York City life.
- The title of the novel, Rules of Civility, is inspired by George Washington's "Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation," which is a list of 110 principles on how to behave with proper respect and manners.
- Before becoming a bestselling author, Amor Towles had a two-decade-long career in investment management, which he left to fully focus on writing after the success of Rules of Civility.

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Preface

Rules of Civility  Preface Summary & Analysis

Part 1: “Wintertime”

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Rules of Civility  Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Springtime”

Part 2, Chapters 5-7

Rules of Civility  Part 2, Chapters 5-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 8-11

Rules of Civility  Part 2, Chapters 8-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Summertime”

Part 3, Chapters 12-14

Rules of Civility  Part 3, Chapters 12-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 15-17

Rules of Civility  Part 3, Chapters 15-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 18-19

Rules of Civility  Part 3, Chapters 18-19 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Fall”

Part 4, Chapters 20-23

Rules of Civility  Part 4, Chapters 20-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapter 24-Epilogue 

Rules of Civility  Part 4, Chapter 24-Epilogue  Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Rules of Civility  Character Analysis

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Rules of Civility

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