Sin in the Second City
Sin in the Second City
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2007
Book Brief
400
Biography • Nonfiction
Chicago, Illinois • 1900s
2007
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Sin in the Second City by Karen Abbott, the Everleigh Club, operated by the aristocratic Everleigh sisters, emerges as the most infamous brothel in Chicago in the early 1900s. Striving to civilize and elevate the status of courtesans, they face opposition from reformers and political hypocrisy, leading to the club's eventual closure in 1912. Sensitive topics such as sex work, exploitation, and social reform are discussed.
Mysterious
Dark
Informative
Gritty
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
13,788 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Karen Abbott's Sin in the Second City receives mixed reviews for its vivid portrayal of Chicago's vice district and the Everleigh Club. Praised for rigorous research and engaging narrative, the book is criticized for occasionally overwhelming detail and lack of character depth. Overall, a compelling read for those interested in early 20th-century urban history and vice culture.
Who Should Read Sin in the Second City?
Readers who are intrigued by the intersection of history, true crime, and social issues will enjoy Karen Abbott's Sin in the Second City. Comparable to Erik Larson's The Devil in the White City and Candace Fleming's The Rise and Fall of Charles Lindbergh, this book captivates those fascinated by gritty, dramatic narratives set in America's past.
13,788 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
400
Biography • Nonfiction
Chicago, Illinois • 1900s
2007
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!