Rules of Civility

Rules of Civility has been part of my home library collection for a number of years. For some reason, I was drawn to the UK cover edition which places the novel in New York City, where it is set.

The novel takes place in the 1930s. With the starting paragraph, the language used brings the reader to that time in history. I can almost hear the accent from that place and time with the word choices the author makes, even though I personally have not been to New York.

The story begins at a jazz bar on New Year’s Eve. A woman named Katey Kontent is there seeing the quartet play when she is unable to afford to see the ensemble when they are actually playing, instead of practicing somewhere that is quieter.

Katey has learned a few things, such as sneaking into a cinema, as stealing silk stockings from the department store, and she can type eighty words per minute.

With her skill and her nerve, Katey has changed in one year’s time. She is more daring wanting to climb up the ladder in a world where riches seem to dangle within reach.

Originally Published on January 1, 2026