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Editorial Reviews
Review
“This is an interesting examination of a lesser-known figure from the Gilded Age, one whose story extends beyond the confines of late-19th-century New York…This story of one woman’s ascent offers a fascinating look at the choices she made to become a Gilded Age titan.” —Kirkus Reviews
Praise for The Second Mrs. Astor
“Historical fiction at its finest…with deep character perspective…engaging and intricate detail…passages [that] are brilliantly written and both gut-wrenching and heart-breaking to read.” —The Florida Times-Union
“An unexpectedly affecting interpretation.” —The Toronto Star
“An engaging tale. Abé richly describes the scenery. Everything is opulent, decadent, rich. We’re taken from the shores of Maine to bustling New York City, Egypt, and eventually, aboard the Titanic where their romance meets a tragic end in the icy waters. As the story crescendos to that fateful night, readers will remain captivated by both the imagery and the plot… This is more than another tale about the Titanic, it’s a love story, a drama, and a fine historical novel. Recommended.” —Historical Novels Review
"Abé is an exquisite storyteller, gracefully transporting the reader from Newport to Egypt to the cold seas of the Atlantic. Rich in detail and deeply moving." —Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Lions of Fifth Avenue
"One of the most beautifully written books I’ve ever had the pleasure to read. You’ll find yourself glued to every page, falling in love with this dazzling couple, and despite knowing better, hoping against hope that they avoid the tragedy that awaits them on the ill-fated Titanic. A gorgeous, phenomenal novel I won’t soon forget.” —Ellen Marie Wiseman New York Times bestselling Author of The Orphan Collector
“A touching, compelling, and haunting love story that will delight fans of historical fiction and enthrall those of us for whom the Titanic will always fascinate.” —Hazel Gaynor, New York Times bestselling author of When We Were Young and Brave
“An engaging novel told with both heartbreaking care and vivid detail. Shana Abé introduces us to the extraordinary Madeleine Astor and her profound love for the enigmatic and famous Jack Astor. Abé's intimate prose brings to life a fascinating and heartbreaking piece of history. A harrowing and yet ultimately hopeful tale of survival and courage, fate and love, and the ultimate question of who do we become after great loss. The Second Mrs. Astor is historical fiction at its gripping and irresistible best.” —Patti Callahan , New York Times bestselling author of Surviving Savannah and Becoming Mrs. Lewis
About the Author
Review:
4.5 out of 5
90.77% of customers are satisfied
5.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating, enthralling
What a wonderful biography, capturing the essence of the characters and keeping one reading, seeking to know these persons even more. Ms. Abe certainly seems to capture the essence of these persons, even though it is fiction based on real-life. I cannot wait to read more of her writing - I was kept engaged throughout the book with the realism and depth of the characters. Totally loved it!!!
4.0 out of 5 stars Historical Fiction
Opening chapter is captivating. No waiting for interest to arrive. I have visited the beautiful estate and gardens of the Huntington Library and gardens in Pasadena , California but never knew anything of the mistress and how this luxury property came to be. It's an easy read and a pleasure to pick up in the middle of the night, time and time again. My book club enjoyed this book, not the book of the year but a good and solid read. No complaints
5.0 out of 5 stars Exquisite
Top caliber writing. (And I am very discerning!) Perfect tension between inner and outer lives. Prose abounds with shades of color, but never overreaching. Pacing, points of view, all natural and intriguing. Well done!
5.0 out of 5 stars Historical fiction at its finest!
I can only start this review one way. Wow! What a story!The author begins near the end of 1902, with Lucy, a sales clerk, from The Town Topics Publishing Co. arriving to see Mrs Huntington. Lucy’s employer is trying to gouge the widow of Collis P. Huntington to pay the hefty price of $10,000 for a copy of its newest publication “Fads and Fancies of Representative Americans at the Beginning of the Twentieth Century: being a Portrayal of their Tastes, Diversions, and Achievements.” From there, the author sends the reader back to 1867 and into the life of Arabella D. Yarrington - a beautiful 17 year old- who is working as a champagne girl at one of the many illegal drinking and gambling houses that Johnny Worsham owns in Richmond. Arabella’s father has died and left behind his wife and five children on the verge of starvation. Arabella’s job makes the difference between their eating or starving.Arabella is not only beautiful, she is smart. She is determined. She is a planner. And she wants her family out of poverty. When she meets Collis P. Huntington, she believes she has found her way out. But only if she consistently plays her part.This well researched novel takes the reader through all the feels. Emotionally hard at times, Arabella (Belle) moves forward in her planned out life to rescue not only her mother and siblings but herself. When she needs to reinvent herself, she does just that.The story, set in The Gilded Age, takes the reader to glorious places and the opulent buildings and homes that were popular during that time. During this period of her life, Belle, with thoughtfulness and grace, faces rejection from a very judgmental society. She is judged. She is shunned. But, she perseveres in creating the life she wants for her family.This beautifully written, well researched novel is historical fiction at its best as the author tells the story of the real Arabella Yarrington and how she fought, planned, changed, and honed her skills to become the richest woman in the country.I loved this book. The author’s beautifully written descriptions make the Gilded Age, and all its excess, come alive for the reader. Not only a solid five star read for me but a new author discovered! Well done, Shana Abe.
4.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable reading
It was very interesting and highly readable. Some passages seemed too lengthy and detailed (descriptions of art, decor, etc.), and I would have liked to read more about her marriage to Henry Edward. As another reviewer wrote, "Part 2?"
3.0 out of 5 stars A nice biography
Story was a bit lumbering. I wish the author didn't end the story so abruptly. Maybe there's a part 2??
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful!
This book is the kind of book that takes you away to another time. It holds you in its spell from the first page until the last. I thoroughly enjoyed it.. If you like historical fiction with a strong female lead, this book is for you. Splendid!u
5.0 out of 5 stars Historical Fiction at its Best
This beautifully written work of historical fiction vividly captures the romance (and excesses) of the “gilded age” in late nineteen century America. I am now anxious to find a biography of Colles P. Huntington, the fabulously successful railroad baron, with more details about his life and those exciting times. I also look forward to reading more books by this incredibly creative and talented author. - David B. Crawley, M.D. – Author of “Steep Turn: A Physician’s Journey from Clinic to Cockpit” and “A Mile of String: A Boy’s Recollection of his Midwest Childhood.”
Excellent Read
Loved this book and really didn’t want it to end.
A slow start
It began slow as the characters were introduced. A bit of a "wader" story at this point. Then midway through it sped up finishing well.
Loved it!
Really enjoyed the storyline, characters and style of writing! Two thumbs up!
Great story
A page turner
Absolute Delight
I loved this book so much that I’ll be reading her other one immediately! With fascinating characters, this historical fiction captures the age and keeps the reader engrossed from beginning to end.
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An American Beauty: A Novel of the Gilded Age Inspired by the True Story of Arabella Huntington Who Became the Richest Woman in the Country
AED8934
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Product origin: United States
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