These Shallow Graves
These Shallow Graves
Book Brief
512
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1890s
2015
YA
14-18 years
HL630L
Super Short Summary
These Shallow Graves follows Josephine Montfort, an aspiring reporter in Gilded Age New York, who investigates her father's unexpected death. As she delves deeper, Josephine confronts societal expectations and uncovers harrowing family secrets, all while striving to take control of her own future. The novel includes themes of potential violence and death by suspected suicide.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Romantic
Adventurous
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
16,932 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jennifer Donnelly's These Shallow Graves is praised for its atmospheric historical setting and strong, independent protagonist. Critics applaud its engaging mystery and rich detail, but some note the pacing can be slow and the plot occasionally predictable. Overall, it’s a compelling read for fans of historical fiction and mystery.
Who Should Read These Shallow Graves?
Readers who savor historical mysteries with strong female protagonists will relish These Shallow Graves by Jennifer Donnelly. Comparable to works like A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray, this novel captivates those intrigued by 19th-century settings, suspenseful plot twists, and rich, evocative storytelling.
16,932 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jennifer Donnelly was inspired to write These Shallow Graves after visiting the Tenement Museum in New York City and learning about the challenging lives of immigrants and the working class in the 19th century.
The novel takes place during the Gilded Age, a period known for opulence and wealth for some, juxtaposed against the poverty and struggles of others, setting a rich historical background for the story.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
These Shallow Graves combines elements of historical fiction with mystery, as it explores themes of societal expectations and women seeking independence during a time when their roles were largely restricted.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
512
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1890s
2015
YA
14-18 years
HL630L
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!