- Date Published:
2024 - Length:
451 pages—Listening Time: 13 hr 23 minutes - Genre:
Fiction, Historical Fiction - Setting:
1930s Hollywood, 2000s New York City - Awards:
NPR Books We Love 2024; Los Angeles Public Library Best of the Year Fiction & Literature 2024; LibraryReads Monthly Pick Top Ten April 2024; Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Adults Fiction 2024 - Language:
English, Latin, Spanish - Sensitive Aspects:
Murder and violence, alcohol and drug use, misogyny, sexism, homophobia, eating disorders, fatphobia, classism, police brutality - Movie:
As of June 2025, there are no sales of film rights, adaptation plans, or ongoing negotiations for the stories or novellas related to film deals. - Recommend for Book Club:
Yes, most book groups will enjoy this read
If I had my "druthers," I would never choose to read a book of short stories. But come on, this is Amor Towles. As expected, this book captivated me completely. I just wanted more and more.
I love that Towles's writing keeps you guessing, even after the story ends. At the end of each vignette, I found myself thinking, "Okay, so he's going to let me figure this out." Towles presents the stories and a wide range of characters, leaving it up to the readers to form their opinions about each. This aspect of the book makes it a fantastic choice for book clubs. The stories are a wonderful springboard for conversation.
I found myself desperately searching for a thread of continuity among the various stories. Maybe I've been reading too many mystery novels or Elizabeth Strout. Per the title, I was thinking that stories might involve New York City jet-setting, fine dining, drinks at The Fleur Room, or at least love interests. Sure enough, after I finished reading all of the short stories, I figured out that each involved characters whose lives were completely changed by a single conversation, a fleeting encounter, or a moment of decision—often across a simple table for two.
Just when I had resigned myself to the fact that this book would simply consist of a collection of captivating stories set in New York City, Towles unexpectedly shifts the focus to 1930s Hollywood for the book's final story, which is a novella. But I was totally okay with the switch because the final story is really, really good. And I loved Olivia de Havilland in Gone With the Wind.
Another thing that Towles shines at is his characters. They are far less than perfect, but none of them ever come off as stereotypical caricatures. Despite their greediness, lies, cheating, and swindling, you love them for their authenticity. Most importantly, regardless of the brevity of each story, you feel like you fully know and understand each character. This is the epitome of Towles' mastery.
I suggest that you begin this read with an open mind, not expecting anything more than to be entertained. Towles is in control. Trust him. He doesn't disappoint. Rather than walking away thinking how much you loved this book, you will most likely walk away having a favorite standout story and character. Mixing things up a bit is what makes reading so satisfying and addictive, right?
Table for Two is a 2024 collection by Amor Towles, comprising six short stories and a novella. The book is structured in two parts: the short stories, set primarily in New York City around the turn of the millennium, and the novella, "Eve in Hollywood," set in 1938 Los Angeles. The collection explores themes of chance encounters, relationships, personal transformation, and the profound effects of seemingly small decisions.
The Short Stories
All six short stories are set in or connected to New York City, capturing the city’s energy, diversity, and the unpredictability of urban life. Each story focuses on pivotal moments where two characters—often family, friends, or strangers—sit across from each other, confronting new realities and making choices that alter the course of their lives. Here’s a brief summary of each:
"The Line"
The story follows Pushkin, a Russian peasant who becomes adept at waiting in lines in Soviet Russia. His journey eventually takes him to New York, where he finds comfort in the familiar act of queuing, even if it’s now for a soup kitchen. The story reflects on patience, adaptation, and the immigrant experience.
"The Ballad of Timothy Touchett"
An aspiring novelist in New York becomes embroiled in a literary forgery scheme, which brings both unexpected success and legal trouble. The tale explores ambition, deception, and the consequences of chasing shortcuts.
"Hasta Luego"
Two strangers, stranded at an airport due to grounded flights, form a fleeting but meaningful connection. The story contemplates the impact of brief encounters and the possibilities that arise from them.
"I Will Survive"
A woman investigates her stepfather’s suspected infidelity, only to uncover unexpected truths. The narrative is about family secrets, trust, and the complexities of modern relationships.
"The Bootlegger"
Inspired by Towles’s own experience, this story centers on a man who reports an elderly concertgoer for illicitly recording performances at Carnegie Hall. The aftermath leads to unexpected outcomes and reflections on morality and regret.
"The DiDomenico Fragment"
A retired art specialist attempts to defraud his family by selling a valuable painting, only to become ensnared in his own scheme. The story examines family dynamics, greed, and the pursuit of authenticity.
The Novella
"Eve in Hollywood"
The second half of the collection is the novella "Eve in Hollywood," which revisits Evelyn Ross, a character from Towles’s debut novel Rules of Civility. After leaving New York in 1938, Eve heads to Los Angeles instead of returning home to Indiana. The novella is told from seven different perspectives, offering a kaleidoscopic view of Eve’s new life among the movie sets, dive bars, and glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Eve’s journey is one of reinvention and intrigue. She becomes entangled in the lives of various Hollywood figures, including real-life actress Olivia de Havilland. The novella explores themes of identity, ambition, and the allure—and illusions—of fame. Eve’s poise and adaptability allow her to influence not only her own fate but also the destinies of those around her, crafting a new future in a city defined by reinvention.
Major Themes of the Stories
- Chance Encounters: Many stories hinge on brief, seemingly inconsequential meetings that have lasting impacts.
- Relationships and Family: The dynamics of marriage, family, and friendship are central, often examined through moments of confrontation or revelation across a "table for two."
- Change and Adaptability: Characters frequently face societal, personal, or moral upheaval, and their responses to change are a recurring motif.
- Moral Dilemmas: Several stories involve ethical quandaries, from reporting a bootlegger to family betrayals over art and money.
- Nostalgia and Setting: The stories are richly atmospheric, contrasting the energy of New York with the glamour of old Hollywood, and they often evoke nostalgia for different eras.
All of the short stories have been widely praised for their wit, character depth, and evocative settings. The novella, while ambitious in scope and structure, has received mixed reviews, with some critics finding it less compelling than the short stories. Nevertheless, the collection as a whole is celebrated for Towles’s elegant prose, narrative sophistication, and insightful observations about human nature.
Table for Two is a literary feast—whether you savor each story slowly or devour the whole collection at once, it’s a rewarding experience for any lover of fiction. Here are more reasons to read this book.
A Masterclass in Storytelling and Prose
Amor Towles is widely celebrated for his elegant, evocative writing and his ability to transport readers to richly imagined worlds. Table for Two showcases his storytelling prowess through a collection of six short stories and a substantial novella, all marked by his signature wit, keen observation of human nature, and polished prose. If you appreciate beautifully crafted sentences, nuanced characters, and immersive settings, this collection is a testament to Towles’s literary skill.
Diverse and Engaging Stories
The short stories in Table for Two span various settings and eras, from Soviet Russia to modern-day New York, each featuring memorable characters and unexpected plot twists. Whether it’s a Russian peasant’s journey to New York, a budding writer’s misadventures, or a marriage explored through subtle, artful storytelling, the collection offers something for every reader. The stories are loosely linked by the motif of two people sharing a pivotal moment across a table, highlighting how a single conversation can change the course of a life.
A Standout Novella: "Eve in Hollywood"
Half the book is devoted to the novella Eve in Hollywood, which continues the story of Evelyn Ross, a character from Towles’s acclaimed novel Rules of Civility. This novella transports readers to 1938 Hollywood, blending old-school glamour, noir intrigue, and a feminist twist. Readers familiar with Rules of Civility will appreciate the deeper exploration of Eve’s character, while newcomers can still enjoy the story’s caper-like plot, colorful cast, and sharp social commentary.
For Fans and Newcomers Alike
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Towles or new to his work, Table for Two offers both the charm of his historical novels and the freshness of contemporary settings. The collection is praised for its clever structure, memorable characters, and the way each story surprises and delights, making it accessible and rewarding for a wide audience.
Critical Acclaim and Reader Praise
The book has received enthusiastic reviews for its intelligence, sophistication, and the pure pleasure it brings to readers. Critics and readers alike highlight Towles’s ability to create atmospheric settings, believable characters, and stories that linger in the mind long after the last page.
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If you enjoyed Table for Two by Amor Towles—a collection of sharply observed short stories and a novella set in New York and 1930s Hollywood, rich with wit, historical detail, and nuanced character studies—there are several other books and authors you may find equally compelling. Below are recommendations based on style, themes, and reader consensus.
- The House of Doors by Tan Twan Eng
A novel exploring love, betrayal, colonialism, and revolution, set against a lush historical backdrop. Like Towles, Eng weaves together personal stories with broader historical currents, offering a sophisticated, immersive reading experience. - Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead
This sweeping novel follows a daring female aviator through multiple continents and decades, blending adventure, historical detail, and character-driven storytelling—qualities that resonate with Towles fans. - The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon
The Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, tells the story of two Jewish cousins in WWII-era New York, seamlessly fusing history, art, and the complexities of friendship and ambition. People often compare Chabon's wit and narrative scope to Towles's work. - Atonement by Ian McEwan
This acclaimed novel explores the consequences of a single misunderstanding across decades, with lush prose and deep psychological insight—similar to the emotional depth and historical settings Towles employs. - Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
While more gothic in tone, Rebecca offers atmospheric historical fiction with intricate character dynamics and elegant prose, making it a frequent recommendation for Towles readers seeking literary style and suspense. - The Parisian by Isabella Hammad
A richly detailed historical novel set in early 20th-century Paris and Palestine, praised for its elegant writing and nuanced characters—qualities that align well with Towles's storytelling.
Short Story Collections
If you enjoyed the structure of Table for Two, you might also appreciate collections by authors like Alice Munro or Jhumpa Lahiri, who similarly excel at capturing pivotal life moments with subtlety and grace.
Towles’s Other Works
If you haven’t yet read them, Towles’s own novels—A Gentleman in Moscow, Rules of Civility, and The Lincoln Highway—are all highly recommended for their historical richness, engaging characters, and elegant prose.
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