The Vixen
The Vixen
Book Brief
Beta336
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1950s
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Vixen by Francine Prose is a historical novel set in 1950s America, centered around a young Jewish editor who faces moral dilemmas while working on a sensationalist manuscript inspired by the execution of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg. The story explores themes of conscience, identity, and the influence of cultural and political forces.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Romantic
Unnerving
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
3,534 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Vixen by Francine Prose is praised for its sharp prose and intriguing plot set during the McCarthy era. Critics admire Prose's ability to weave historical fiction with humor and suspense. Some feel the narrative can be unevenly paced, but the novel's clever commentary on censorship and ambition shines through, offering a thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Vixen?
A reader who enjoys The Vixen by Francine Prose appreciates historical fiction with satirical undertones, and complex moral dilemmas. Fans of novels like The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon or The Plot Against America by Philip Roth will be drawn to its wit and exploration of post-McCarthy America.
3,534 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Vixen is set in 1953 and weaves historical events with fiction, drawing inspiration from the execution of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg for espionage.
The novel's protagonist works for a renowned publisher, similar to real-life literary icon Simon & Schuster, where his task involves editing a controversial manuscript.
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Francine Prose wrote The Vixen during the turbulent political climate of the Trump presidency, channeling her reflections on justice, public perception, and historical memory into the narrative.
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336
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1950s
2021
Adult
18+ years
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