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An American Beauty
This sweeping novel of historical fiction is inspired by the true rags-to-riches story of Arabella Huntington—a woman whose great beauty was surpassed only by her exceptional business acumen, grit, and artistic eye, and who defied the constraints of her era to become the wealthiest self-made woman in America.
1867, Richmond, Virginia: Though she wears the same low-cut purple gown that is the uniform of all the girls who work at Worsham’s gambling parlor, Arabella stands apart. It’s not merely her statuesque beauty and practiced charm--even at seventeen, Arabella possesses an unyielding grit, and a resolve to escape her background of struggle and poverty.
Collis Huntington, railroad baron and self-made multimillionaire, is drawn to Arabella from their first meeting. Collis is married and thirty years her senior, yet they are well-matched in temperament, and flirtation rapidly escalates into an affair. With Collis’s help, Arabella eventually moves to New York, posing as a genteel, well-to-do Southern widow. Using Collis’s seed money and her own shrewd investing instincts, she begins to amass a fortune.
Their relationship is an open secret, and no one is surprised when Collis marries Arabella after his wife’s death. But “The Four Hundred”—the elite circle that includes the Astors and Vanderbilts—have their rules. Arabella must earn her place in society—not just through her vast wealth, but with taste, style, and impeccable behavior. There are some who suspect the scandalous truth and will blackmail her for it. And then there is another threat—an unexpected, impossible romance that will test her ambition, her loyalties, and her heart.
1867, Richmond, Virginia: Though she wears the same low-cut purple gown that is the uniform of all the girls who work at Worsham’s gambling parlor, Arabella stands apart. It’s not merely her statuesque beauty and practiced charm--even at seventeen, Arabella possesses an unyielding grit, and a resolve to escape her background of struggle and poverty.
Collis Huntington, railroad baron and self-made multimillionaire, is drawn to Arabella from their first meeting. Collis is married and thirty years her senior, yet they are well-matched in temperament, and flirtation rapidly escalates into an affair. With Collis’s help, Arabella eventually moves to New York, posing as a genteel, well-to-do Southern widow. Using Collis’s seed money and her own shrewd investing instincts, she begins to amass a fortune.
Their relationship is an open secret, and no one is surprised when Collis marries Arabella after his wife’s death. But “The Four Hundred”—the elite circle that includes the Astors and Vanderbilts—have their rules. Arabella must earn her place in society—not just through her vast wealth, but with taste, style, and impeccable behavior. There are some who suspect the scandalous truth and will blackmail her for it. And then there is another threat—an unexpected, impossible romance that will test her ambition, her loyalties, and her heart.
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 25, 2023
About the author
Shana Abe
30 books1,814 followersShana Abé is the award-winning, New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of seventeen books, including the acclaimed Drákon Series and the Sweetest Dark Series.
She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Southern California, and currently resides in the mountains of Colorado with her very patient husband and a lot of pets.
She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Southern California, and currently resides in the mountains of Colorado with her very patient husband and a lot of pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,193 reviews
July 30, 2024
Overall, this story is entertaining and thought-provoking. The author delivers a vivid story of life and drama during the gilded age. I’m looking forward to reading more novels by this author.
Kensington Books provided a complimentary physical copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date was April 25, 2023.
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My 3.70 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
April 17, 2023
An American Beauty is inspired by the true story of Arabella Huntington, who became the wealthiest self-made woman in America.
1867, Richmond, Virginia. Arabella Duvall Yarrington (Belle in short), at seventeen, works at gambling parlor. With her personality and charm, she catches an eye of Collins Huntington, railroad baron. After they get acquainted, arrangements are made for her to live in NYC. And those are quite peculiar arrangements. She is a savvy woman and knows that she can’t rely just on those arrangements. Thus, she makes her own measures. She sees an opportunity in location and pieces of land.
Belle’s story in small pieces is intertwined with the story of her mother and young Clara, daughter of Collins Huntington. With marvelous prose, their backstories are smoothly woven in.
This story lightly weaves Belle’s own story of investing. It’s more about her mysterious backstory and how she navigated in high society, where it strongly paints a picture of a woman who forged her own path. A woman who stood her own and didn’t care about fitting with the Four Hundred. She was who she was and cared about her extraordinary life journey, rather than fitting with the high society of New York.
The whole storytelling is breathtaking. It has well-developed characters, a silky smooth flow, and is engaging from the start to the end.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
1867, Richmond, Virginia. Arabella Duvall Yarrington (Belle in short), at seventeen, works at gambling parlor. With her personality and charm, she catches an eye of Collins Huntington, railroad baron. After they get acquainted, arrangements are made for her to live in NYC. And those are quite peculiar arrangements. She is a savvy woman and knows that she can’t rely just on those arrangements. Thus, she makes her own measures. She sees an opportunity in location and pieces of land.
Belle’s story in small pieces is intertwined with the story of her mother and young Clara, daughter of Collins Huntington. With marvelous prose, their backstories are smoothly woven in.
This story lightly weaves Belle’s own story of investing. It’s more about her mysterious backstory and how she navigated in high society, where it strongly paints a picture of a woman who forged her own path. A woman who stood her own and didn’t care about fitting with the Four Hundred. She was who she was and cared about her extraordinary life journey, rather than fitting with the high society of New York.
The whole storytelling is breathtaking. It has well-developed characters, a silky smooth flow, and is engaging from the start to the end.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2023
An American Beauty by Shana Abe was a captivating historical fiction book about a woman who I had never heard about before I read this book. It took place in both Richmond, Virginia and New York City in the years known as The Gilded Age. An American Beauty was inspired by the true story of Arabella Huntington.
Arabella had grown up in Richmond and had lived through the devastation of the aftermath of the Civil War. Richmond had felt the effects of the war and had left Arabella and her family very poor and unable to afford much of anything. As a result, when Arabella was seventeen her mother put Arabella in a very compromising situation. Her mother was very instrumental in getting Arabella a job at a gambling establishment owned by Johnny Worshand. Arabella worked nights serving champagne to its clientele and occasionally entertaining them by playing the piano. The wages Arabella earned helped to buy food and necessities for her siblings. The reputation of this establishment was well known. It was hard to believe that a mother would put a daughter in such a compromising situation. Dire times though required hard and difficult decisions.
On one such night, Mr. Collins Huntington, a very wealthy railroad baron, paid a visit to the facility that Arabella worked at. He was drawn to Arabella immediately and started to court her and buy her gifts. It was not long before Arabella and Collins were in the throes of having an affair. Even though Collins Huntington was a married man and father he knew he could not live without Arabella in his life. Collins offered to purchase her an apartment in New York City near his apartment that regally sat on Park Avenue. Arabella agreed to move to New York City to be near Collins but only if her whole family was able to go as well. Collins bought Arabella a large enough apartment to accommodate all the members of her family. The other arrangement that Collin took care of was to offer Johnny Worshand an opportunity that he would not be able to turn down. Johnny was to act as Arabella’s husband but when Arabella became pregnant with Collin’s child, Johnny conveniently disappeared and Arabella became a widow. Thus began the love affair between Arabella and Collins Huntington.
Arabella was very astute and smart woman. Her intuition, wisdom and determination to purchase real estate, property, jewelry and art served her well. Even though she was shunned by society’s elite, Arabella did not let herself be affected by their gossip or lack of acceptance. She lived her life on her terms. Arabella came to care for Collins very much even though their relationship had not started out as one based on love for Arabella. She became known as a philanthropist. Arabella gave large donations to many charities, hospitals and universities. Although I had never heard about this incredible woman before reading An American Beauty, I was quite impressed with how she lived her life, overcame the challenges she faced, always thought of the well being of others even at her own expense and disappointment and held her head high throughout all. This was the first book that I had read by Shana Abe. I was very impressed with her writing, research and masterful storytelling. I was able to switch between the audiobook and the digital version easily. The audiobook was narrated by Gail Shalan. I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Tantor Audio and Kensington Books for allowing me to read An American Beauty by Shana Abe through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Arabella had grown up in Richmond and had lived through the devastation of the aftermath of the Civil War. Richmond had felt the effects of the war and had left Arabella and her family very poor and unable to afford much of anything. As a result, when Arabella was seventeen her mother put Arabella in a very compromising situation. Her mother was very instrumental in getting Arabella a job at a gambling establishment owned by Johnny Worshand. Arabella worked nights serving champagne to its clientele and occasionally entertaining them by playing the piano. The wages Arabella earned helped to buy food and necessities for her siblings. The reputation of this establishment was well known. It was hard to believe that a mother would put a daughter in such a compromising situation. Dire times though required hard and difficult decisions.
On one such night, Mr. Collins Huntington, a very wealthy railroad baron, paid a visit to the facility that Arabella worked at. He was drawn to Arabella immediately and started to court her and buy her gifts. It was not long before Arabella and Collins were in the throes of having an affair. Even though Collins Huntington was a married man and father he knew he could not live without Arabella in his life. Collins offered to purchase her an apartment in New York City near his apartment that regally sat on Park Avenue. Arabella agreed to move to New York City to be near Collins but only if her whole family was able to go as well. Collins bought Arabella a large enough apartment to accommodate all the members of her family. The other arrangement that Collin took care of was to offer Johnny Worshand an opportunity that he would not be able to turn down. Johnny was to act as Arabella’s husband but when Arabella became pregnant with Collin’s child, Johnny conveniently disappeared and Arabella became a widow. Thus began the love affair between Arabella and Collins Huntington.
Arabella was very astute and smart woman. Her intuition, wisdom and determination to purchase real estate, property, jewelry and art served her well. Even though she was shunned by society’s elite, Arabella did not let herself be affected by their gossip or lack of acceptance. She lived her life on her terms. Arabella came to care for Collins very much even though their relationship had not started out as one based on love for Arabella. She became known as a philanthropist. Arabella gave large donations to many charities, hospitals and universities. Although I had never heard about this incredible woman before reading An American Beauty, I was quite impressed with how she lived her life, overcame the challenges she faced, always thought of the well being of others even at her own expense and disappointment and held her head high throughout all. This was the first book that I had read by Shana Abe. I was very impressed with her writing, research and masterful storytelling. I was able to switch between the audiobook and the digital version easily. The audiobook was narrated by Gail Shalan. I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Tantor Audio and Kensington Books for allowing me to read An American Beauty by Shana Abe through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 19, 2023
What a fascinating story of Arabella Huntington who back in the gilded age was considered one of the richest women in America at that time! She was an amazing character, one who had a number of mysteries surrounding her early years. It was whispered about that she and her first husband never married although they had a son together. She worked as an aide later in New York to Collis Huntington, a railway magnate who was also rumored to be her lover.
After Collis's wife died, he married Arabella, who now had wealth beyond her dreams. Collis adopted her son, Archer. It was hard for Arabella, because she fought against the New York Knickerbocker society who considered her to be a charlatan. However, Arabella was no fool, and decided to invest her own money in real estate gong up against men like John D. Rockefeller. When Collis passed, Arabella married Collis's widowed nephew, Edward, who was also a railroad magnate. She died in 1924, while her son went on to be a philanthropist like his mother. Edward outlived her by three years.
What an absolutely fascinating woman, and Shana Abe certainly made her into such an intriguing figure. She acted like a Southern lady who had her share of societal pressure, but with the undying love of both of her husbands. She was a Southern beauty, one that attracted men, but kept her eyes focused on her life with Collis. And what a life it was! Inheriting what's to believe to be fifty million dollars (untaxed at that time), she was able to afford her heart's desire. However, Arabella was a philanthropist giving money to Huntington Fund for Cancer Research. The hospital later developed into the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
An amazing life indeed and one that she always was able to hold her head up and ignore the many barbs and arrows that headed her way.
Thank you to Shana Abe, Tantor Audio, (Gail Shalan narrator), and NetGalley for the ability to listen to this story.
After Collis's wife died, he married Arabella, who now had wealth beyond her dreams. Collis adopted her son, Archer. It was hard for Arabella, because she fought against the New York Knickerbocker society who considered her to be a charlatan. However, Arabella was no fool, and decided to invest her own money in real estate gong up against men like John D. Rockefeller. When Collis passed, Arabella married Collis's widowed nephew, Edward, who was also a railroad magnate. She died in 1924, while her son went on to be a philanthropist like his mother. Edward outlived her by three years.
What an absolutely fascinating woman, and Shana Abe certainly made her into such an intriguing figure. She acted like a Southern lady who had her share of societal pressure, but with the undying love of both of her husbands. She was a Southern beauty, one that attracted men, but kept her eyes focused on her life with Collis. And what a life it was! Inheriting what's to believe to be fifty million dollars (untaxed at that time), she was able to afford her heart's desire. However, Arabella was a philanthropist giving money to Huntington Fund for Cancer Research. The hospital later developed into the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
An amazing life indeed and one that she always was able to hold her head up and ignore the many barbs and arrows that headed her way.
Thank you to Shana Abe, Tantor Audio, (Gail Shalan narrator), and NetGalley for the ability to listen to this story.
March 30, 2023
3.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for acces to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
A young woman rises from a life of desitution in Virginia to one day become one of the richest women on 5th Avenue. But who was Arabella (Belle) Huntington?
Loyal daughter? Prostitute? Bigamist?Mistress? Wife? Widow? This historical novel sets out to answers these questions and covers the time period between 1867 to the early 1900s.
I liked this novel but not as much as The Second Mrs Astor. Perhaps because this one wasn't quite as gossipy and soapy. I didn't quite feel connected to any of the characters though and for that I feel it waffles half way between a 3 and 4 star.
Expected Publication Date. 25/04/23
Goodreads Review Published. 26/03/23
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for acces to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
A young woman rises from a life of desitution in Virginia to one day become one of the richest women on 5th Avenue. But who was Arabella (Belle) Huntington?
Loyal daughter? Prostitute? Bigamist?Mistress? Wife? Widow? This historical novel sets out to answers these questions and covers the time period between 1867 to the early 1900s.
I liked this novel but not as much as The Second Mrs Astor. Perhaps because this one wasn't quite as gossipy and soapy. I didn't quite feel connected to any of the characters though and for that I feel it waffles half way between a 3 and 4 star.
Expected Publication Date. 25/04/23
Goodreads Review Published. 26/03/23
April 17, 2023
Arabella Duval Yarrington is only a teenager when the Civil War ends, she lives in a decimated Richmond, Virginia with her mother Catherine and her four siblings. Arabella works nights at a gambling parlor, she wears a low cut purple gown and serves champagne.
Arabella is seventeen when she meets Collis Huntington in Richmond, he’s a much older railroad baron and a multimillionaire. They have an affair, Arabella and her family move to New York, Collis buys her a house in Manhattan and he lives not far away on Park Avenue with his wife Elizabeth and daughter Clara.
Arabella pretends she’s a southern widow, no one really knows if she was ever married to Johnny Worsham and she uses his last name. After being dirt poor and going hungry Arabella is determined to never be in that situation again, and she starts investing money in land and property.
Everyone knows about Collis and Arabella’s relationship, including his wife, daughter and extended family. When Elizabeth passes away, the couple have a small wedding later in the year and Arabella becomes the new Mrs. Huntington.
New York’s elite society doesn't accept Arabella, like Astors and Vanderbilts and the members of The Four Hundred. The fashionable and extremely rich people who thought they were the ones who really mattered in New York. Collis and Arabella didn't care, he's busy expanding the railroad, and they buy a country estate in Westchester County.
Arabella's life has always been shrouded in controversy and mystery, her date of birth is questioned and where she was born, did she only serve drinks in the gambling parlor, was Collis her son Archer's father and numerous people tried to blackmail her over the years?
I received a copy of An American Beauty by Shana Abe from Edelweiss and Kensington Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Ms. Abe’s narrative is as interesting as her main character, Arabella Duval Huntington, who was once the wealthiest woman in The Gilded Age, she amassed a huge art and jewellery collection, she was a philanthropist, and donated money to charities, hospitals, universities and the Huntington Library in California.
Shana Abe takes you back in time, she creates her historical fiction story around a young lady who survived the lean Civil War years and the Confederates burning Richmond. It makes you think about what you would do if you were in Arabella's place, she used her beauty and brains and four stars from me.
Arabella is seventeen when she meets Collis Huntington in Richmond, he’s a much older railroad baron and a multimillionaire. They have an affair, Arabella and her family move to New York, Collis buys her a house in Manhattan and he lives not far away on Park Avenue with his wife Elizabeth and daughter Clara.
Arabella pretends she’s a southern widow, no one really knows if she was ever married to Johnny Worsham and she uses his last name. After being dirt poor and going hungry Arabella is determined to never be in that situation again, and she starts investing money in land and property.
Everyone knows about Collis and Arabella’s relationship, including his wife, daughter and extended family. When Elizabeth passes away, the couple have a small wedding later in the year and Arabella becomes the new Mrs. Huntington.
New York’s elite society doesn't accept Arabella, like Astors and Vanderbilts and the members of The Four Hundred. The fashionable and extremely rich people who thought they were the ones who really mattered in New York. Collis and Arabella didn't care, he's busy expanding the railroad, and they buy a country estate in Westchester County.
Arabella's life has always been shrouded in controversy and mystery, her date of birth is questioned and where she was born, did she only serve drinks in the gambling parlor, was Collis her son Archer's father and numerous people tried to blackmail her over the years?
I received a copy of An American Beauty by Shana Abe from Edelweiss and Kensington Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Ms. Abe’s narrative is as interesting as her main character, Arabella Duval Huntington, who was once the wealthiest woman in The Gilded Age, she amassed a huge art and jewellery collection, she was a philanthropist, and donated money to charities, hospitals, universities and the Huntington Library in California.
Shana Abe takes you back in time, she creates her historical fiction story around a young lady who survived the lean Civil War years and the Confederates burning Richmond. It makes you think about what you would do if you were in Arabella's place, she used her beauty and brains and four stars from me.
May 28, 2023
This was a very interesting historical fiction. I’ll admit I hadn’t heard of Arabella Huntington but this novel based on her was an interesting read. The book took a little bit for me to fully get into it, but once I did I devoured the last 3/4 of the book in one sitting. Arabella had a lot of barriers, and I really felt for her and cared about what happened to her. Some of the characters were much less likable, but mostly the characters were doing the best choices they could with the circumstances. Arabella is working in an illegal gambling den and during a raid she successfully hides Mr. Collins Huntington and successfully catches his interest. Determined to help support her family and get them all to better circumstances she starts an illicit relationship with Mr. Huntington.
May 26, 2023
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4.5 out of 5 Stars (Rounded up)
AN AMERICAN BEAUTY by Shana Abe is a riveting biographical historical fiction novel about the most interesting woman of the gilded age that I knew nothing about. Arabella Huntington uses her beauty, determination, and brains to overcome her impoverished beginnings and will ignore the rules of elite New York society and rise to become the wealthiest self-made woman in America.
This story begins in 1867 Richmond, Virginia when Arabella Duval Yarrington is only in her teens. Her mother runs a boarding house and is barely able to feed her children in the war devastated Richmond. Arabella is the beauty of the family, and her mother takes her to get work in a gambling parlor and brothel. Arabella is beautiful and talented and knows her family depends on her. Collis Huntington is a railroad baron who attends the establishment Arabella works at and is smitten with Arabella even though he is married. This man will change her and her family’s lives even as Arabella learns and grows into her ambitions, business acumen, and large fortune over her lifetime.
This is such a rich story with many individual plot threads woven together over the lifetime of Arabella Huntington that made me feel she could walk right off the page. Arabella and her mother had to be tough and make difficult choices that not everyone would agree with, but they survived and thrived. I kept thinking of the Reba McEntire song “Fancy” as I was reading that part of Arabella’s life. All the characters are fully drawn throughout the book and believable. Even though this is a work of historical fiction many of the major plot points of the story can be verified as well as painting and jewelry collections still available for viewing left by Arabella. This story tells the tale of an amazing woman who triumphed even though she was very much ahead of her time.
I highly recommend this captivating biographical historical novel.
4.5 out of 5 Stars (Rounded up)
AN AMERICAN BEAUTY by Shana Abe is a riveting biographical historical fiction novel about the most interesting woman of the gilded age that I knew nothing about. Arabella Huntington uses her beauty, determination, and brains to overcome her impoverished beginnings and will ignore the rules of elite New York society and rise to become the wealthiest self-made woman in America.
This story begins in 1867 Richmond, Virginia when Arabella Duval Yarrington is only in her teens. Her mother runs a boarding house and is barely able to feed her children in the war devastated Richmond. Arabella is the beauty of the family, and her mother takes her to get work in a gambling parlor and brothel. Arabella is beautiful and talented and knows her family depends on her. Collis Huntington is a railroad baron who attends the establishment Arabella works at and is smitten with Arabella even though he is married. This man will change her and her family’s lives even as Arabella learns and grows into her ambitions, business acumen, and large fortune over her lifetime.
This is such a rich story with many individual plot threads woven together over the lifetime of Arabella Huntington that made me feel she could walk right off the page. Arabella and her mother had to be tough and make difficult choices that not everyone would agree with, but they survived and thrived. I kept thinking of the Reba McEntire song “Fancy” as I was reading that part of Arabella’s life. All the characters are fully drawn throughout the book and believable. Even though this is a work of historical fiction many of the major plot points of the story can be verified as well as painting and jewelry collections still available for viewing left by Arabella. This story tells the tale of an amazing woman who triumphed even though she was very much ahead of her time.
I highly recommend this captivating biographical historical novel.
August 17, 2023
An American Beauty by Shana Abe. I didn’t enjoy this book. I had a difficult time following it. I almost DNF but decided to finish it.
September 17, 2024
April 25, 2023 publication date
I loved Ms. Abe's first novel The Second Mrs. Astor, but An American Beauty didn't sway me as much as the first novel did. Perhaps I am more of a prig than I had thought because this couple, Arabella and Collis Huntington, were portrayed as lovers rather than being in love. I did some research myself, and what I found (although I admit that I didn't dig very far) didn't support much of what this author wrote - hence historical 'fiction.' And this knowledge disappointed me.
I know that things like this go on all the time-poor very young girl in dire straights makes a career choice that is questionable at best, meets a very much older, RICH man, and leaves everything (for instance, her son by the old man) so she can live the life of ease. Apparently, it was common then as it is common now.
This is just not my favorite theme. I like less duplicity and more truth-telling. However, with the lack of information on Arabella, I can see why the author took so many liberties.
It really is a good book that will satisfy those who love the Gilded Age era and those who love to read books about an impoverished woman pulling herself up by her bootstraps and making the best of things.
This will be a great summer beach read.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Kensington Books, the author, and Edelweiss/ATTL.
I loved Ms. Abe's first novel The Second Mrs. Astor, but An American Beauty didn't sway me as much as the first novel did. Perhaps I am more of a prig than I had thought because this couple, Arabella and Collis Huntington, were portrayed as lovers rather than being in love. I did some research myself, and what I found (although I admit that I didn't dig very far) didn't support much of what this author wrote - hence historical 'fiction.' And this knowledge disappointed me.
I know that things like this go on all the time-poor very young girl in dire straights makes a career choice that is questionable at best, meets a very much older, RICH man, and leaves everything (for instance, her son by the old man) so she can live the life of ease. Apparently, it was common then as it is common now.
This is just not my favorite theme. I like less duplicity and more truth-telling. However, with the lack of information on Arabella, I can see why the author took so many liberties.
It really is a good book that will satisfy those who love the Gilded Age era and those who love to read books about an impoverished woman pulling herself up by her bootstraps and making the best of things.
This will be a great summer beach read.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Kensington Books, the author, and Edelweiss/ATTL.
April 17, 2023
Thank you to Shana Abe, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for the eARC of An American Beauty!
I’ll be honest here, I was hooked by the description but it did not deliver for me. I was disappointed in the lack of depth that I felt for the FMC, especially given her less than exemplary choice of being a long term mistress. I kept wishing that somehow I would get to the point where I thought to myself, “I really don’t love that she’s a mistress, but she is truly just trying to survive and take care of her family,” but I just didn’t. (Think of the depth of feeling that Fantine pulls when becoming a prostitute in Les Mes, not ideal circumstance or choice even, but as an audience we are left feeling like we can’t fully judge or blame her). And then, once Belle finally ends up marrying Mr. Huntington, she decides she has love at first sight with his nephew? I just couldn’t buy in with the lack of depth to the characters. Even if the true history technically follows these specific dates of marriage, etc, I just think the storytelling could have been more engaging and compelling.
I’ll be honest here, I was hooked by the description but it did not deliver for me. I was disappointed in the lack of depth that I felt for the FMC, especially given her less than exemplary choice of being a long term mistress. I kept wishing that somehow I would get to the point where I thought to myself, “I really don’t love that she’s a mistress, but she is truly just trying to survive and take care of her family,” but I just didn’t. (Think of the depth of feeling that Fantine pulls when becoming a prostitute in Les Mes, not ideal circumstance or choice even, but as an audience we are left feeling like we can’t fully judge or blame her). And then, once Belle finally ends up marrying Mr. Huntington, she decides she has love at first sight with his nephew? I just couldn’t buy in with the lack of depth to the characters. Even if the true history technically follows these specific dates of marriage, etc, I just think the storytelling could have been more engaging and compelling.
April 14, 2023
Another awesomely written story by Shana Abe! Its loosely based on the life of Arabella Huntington and her raise from poverty to become one of the most influential women of the glided age. I loved how Arabella fought her way from the swamps of Virginia with strength and brilliance and a drive to not only survive life but to also look out and take care of her widowed mother and her siblings. Her early life is a bit of a mystery but I think Abe created a simply fabulous storyline for this bold and intelligent woman and did it so well that I had no problem believing this spin. No matter what the real truth is, Arabella not only caught the attention of one very powerful man but two! Yes she had to remain in the shadows as Collis Huntington's mistress and the child they had kept a secret but she did what she had to! And once Huntington's wife died they did marry but still she had to endure whispers and the Haute ton and their blackmail. Life wasn't as easy as you'd think for her and their are some who would say she was immoral or a gold digger but what would you do to survive? Shana Abe is very good at bringing depth and layers to her characters and with Arabella she showed that although she was flawed human being she tried to do right for not only herself but those she loved and cared for. Women had so few choices back then and this book just goes to show how unfair it could be. Elizabeth Huntington had to deal with her husband cheating on her and falling for the beautiful Arabella and Arabella had to be the other woman. For both I felt sad because while Arabella was made the bad guy Collis went unscathed. Not quite fair if you ask me. Arabella stayed by Collis side till the end even though she had feelings for his Nephew Edward Huntington. She could have jumped ship and maybe had a chance at real love but once again she made sacrifices for those around her. Eventually a few years after Collis death her and Edward did marry. Over all this was a great read but I did miss the romance and passion from some of her other books like The second Mrs. Astor. Until next time Luv's💕💋
April 13, 2024
Those readers, like myself, who have learned to love author Shana Abe's style of writing, will not be disappointed by An American Beauty. Deliciously long, although not overly long, Abe kept my interest piqued from the begging word until the end, even searching for more. This is the re-telling of the alliance between Collis Huntington and Arabella Duval in spite of their 30-year difference in age. Collis, married at the time, goes on to champion Arabella and eventually marry her following his previous wife's demise. But, make no mistake, theirs is no bed of roses. There is a long, rocky road to happiness for the two, exquisitely detailed by Abe right down to the color of the buttons on their clothes. The story starts primarily in the late 1860's and carries right through until approximately 20-30 years later. It is a story of love at its foundation, and dedication, ending with love once again. There is no sexual content, nor any graphic violence. Highly recommended for those readers interested in the Gilded Age and all its rich history. I absolutely loved it.
May 16, 2023
Superior historical fiction based on the true story of the life of Arabella Huntington who lived in poverty in Richmond just after the Civil War to becoming America's wealthiest woman in the Gilded Age (1877-1896). I was totally captivated reading about this fascinating woman driven to provide for her mother and siblings, raising them out of poverty and starvation. Of course, immediately upon completing this book, I had to "read more about it." A sure sign of a good book when it peaks my interest to that extent. My first book by Shana Abe, but certainly won't be my last.
February 15, 2023
This is another wonderful book by Shana Abe. She paints portraits of the Gilded Age that are both entertaining and accurate. This is the story of ARABELLA HUNTINGTON and her rise from a Faro house in Richmond to becoming one f the wealthiest women in the world.
Belle became the mistress of Collis Huntington, a very wealthy railroad tycoon. Her brilliance allowed her to parlay her position into independent wealth. Belle is the mother of Collis’ only son, Archer. Under all the gilt os the heart of a caring mother, daughter and sister who manages to care for her entire family. Sadly, despite her accomplishments, she is always viewed with disdain.
Abe is able to paint incredibly vivid pictures, both about the inner workings of society as well as the outer accoutrements of wealth. It’s clear that Abe has done an incredible amount of research making this a novel of historical fiction and underlying facts.
As a fan of The Gilded Age on HBO, I couldn’t help but make connections to her characters, especially Belle. I highly recommend this to all my readers. I also suggest reading the Author’s Note, which gives the reader additional information and helps contextualize the story. It is also interesting to see how Belle’s philanthropy impacts her world and ours.
Thank you Netgalley for this novel that I truly enjoyed.
Belle became the mistress of Collis Huntington, a very wealthy railroad tycoon. Her brilliance allowed her to parlay her position into independent wealth. Belle is the mother of Collis’ only son, Archer. Under all the gilt os the heart of a caring mother, daughter and sister who manages to care for her entire family. Sadly, despite her accomplishments, she is always viewed with disdain.
Abe is able to paint incredibly vivid pictures, both about the inner workings of society as well as the outer accoutrements of wealth. It’s clear that Abe has done an incredible amount of research making this a novel of historical fiction and underlying facts.
As a fan of The Gilded Age on HBO, I couldn’t help but make connections to her characters, especially Belle. I highly recommend this to all my readers. I also suggest reading the Author’s Note, which gives the reader additional information and helps contextualize the story. It is also interesting to see how Belle’s philanthropy impacts her world and ours.
Thank you Netgalley for this novel that I truly enjoyed.
April 30, 2023
I was totally engrossed in this beautifully written story of Arabella Huntington, from her ignominious start in a gambling hall to her only-in-America rise to the wealthiest woman in the Gilded Age, though never fully accepted. The characters, the history, the settings, and Belle's absolute guts, beauty and intelligence made for a addictive read. Highly recommended!
June 6, 2023
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the audio version. First off I really love the narrator she did a very good job.
I was absolutely so excited to receive this book. I was just so disappointed with this novel. I liked how it first started off and then it just started to loose me. I just didn't like the main female character at all and as the story progressed I actually couldn't stand her. I didn't like how she ruined so many peoples lives and she was very selfish. I am just so upset that this book was not my cup of tea.
I was absolutely so excited to receive this book. I was just so disappointed with this novel. I liked how it first started off and then it just started to loose me. I just didn't like the main female character at all and as the story progressed I actually couldn't stand her. I didn't like how she ruined so many peoples lives and she was very selfish. I am just so upset that this book was not my cup of tea.
Read
May 19, 2023This is a really remarkable fictional telling of the story of Arabella Huntington. I love novels set in the gilded age and this one did not disappoint. Longer review later.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
August 29, 2023
I fell in love with Shana Abe with her Drakon series years ago. This book didn't disappoint. I had never heard of Arabella Huntington and I enjoyed her rags to riches, real life story. Looking forward to more from Ms. Abe!
May 31, 2023
This book is a historical fiction novel that was inspired by Arabella Huntington. Arabella was once known as the rich woman in America. The story follows Arabella’s life from when she is around 17 and meets the much older (and married) Collis Huntington. The two met at the illegal gambling parlor in which Arabella was employed in Virginia. Collis, a railroad baron, was a self man mutimillionaire who fell head over heals for Arabella. Arabella was a smart young woman who was a good match for Collis. She had the intelligence to use the relationship the two had formed to not only help herself out of poverty but her mother and siblings as well. She lived by her own rules and was extremely loyal to her family. She was able to earn her own wealth and place in society after years of being the other woman through her smarts, style, taste, and behavior.
I really enjoyed learning about a time in history I know little about and a woman who followed her own rules and saved herself and her family. Arabella stands out among females in any book/ movie I have heard about in the gilded age. She did not settle for a live in poverty, she was intelligent, and self motivated to ensure she would not end up destitute again. She didn’t just depend on a man to support her she made sure she has money and property that was hers no matter if she had a man in her life or not. She was a strong female in a time where most women had little say in their lives.
If you enjoy books about the gilded age, historical fiction based on real women, or the struggles from poverty to wealth this is a book for you.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been influenced by anyone.
I really enjoyed learning about a time in history I know little about and a woman who followed her own rules and saved herself and her family. Arabella stands out among females in any book/ movie I have heard about in the gilded age. She did not settle for a live in poverty, she was intelligent, and self motivated to ensure she would not end up destitute again. She didn’t just depend on a man to support her she made sure she has money and property that was hers no matter if she had a man in her life or not. She was a strong female in a time where most women had little say in their lives.
If you enjoy books about the gilded age, historical fiction based on real women, or the struggles from poverty to wealth this is a book for you.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been influenced by anyone.
June 29, 2023
Every once in a while you read a book and you know after just a few pages that it is something special. I haven’t had that happen to me in along time but that all changed when I began to read this book. I can call it wonderful, lovely, fascinating but I’ll never really be able to describe the amazing detail and insight the author has fictionalized out of all of her research. Yes this book is fiction but very much based on the reality of the rise of the rather amazing Belle Huntington.
Belle’s lifestory began as Arabella Duvall Yarrington, the second daughter in a boardinghouse with two other sisters and two brothers and a now widowed Mother, who through no fault of her own, had to watch her children go hungry as she needed to feed her boarders or lose everything. The Civil War has ended but the poverty and hunger of Richmond, Virginia lived on.
Arabella’s Mother secures her a job working for Mr. Worsham at his gambling parlor and this becomes the first rung of the ladder she will climb to become Mrs. Colis Huntington.
Terrific read about a woman who did what she had to for the sake of saving her family and who did it so successfully that she really has earned a place in history.
Thank you to Between The Chapters, Kensington Publishing Corp. and the fantastic author, Shana Abé.
Belle’s lifestory began as Arabella Duvall Yarrington, the second daughter in a boardinghouse with two other sisters and two brothers and a now widowed Mother, who through no fault of her own, had to watch her children go hungry as she needed to feed her boarders or lose everything. The Civil War has ended but the poverty and hunger of Richmond, Virginia lived on.
Arabella’s Mother secures her a job working for Mr. Worsham at his gambling parlor and this becomes the first rung of the ladder she will climb to become Mrs. Colis Huntington.
Terrific read about a woman who did what she had to for the sake of saving her family and who did it so successfully that she really has earned a place in history.
Thank you to Between The Chapters, Kensington Publishing Corp. and the fantastic author, Shana Abé.
September 25, 2024
I'm so glad I stumbled upon this book because I'd never heard of Arabella Huntington before. All I can say is WOW.
For a more in-depth review, check out my book review on my channel! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXMdz...
For a more in-depth review, check out my book review on my channel! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXMdz...
August 26, 2023
Thank you, Netgalley and Kensington, for the free copy of the eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are solely my own.
An utterly absorbing read that captivated me from beginning to end.
The portrayal of this remarkable woman is truly multifaceted—resourceful, cunning, and resilient, with a streak of mercenary determination. What truly resonated with me was the author's skillful exploration of her humanity, particularly in her interactions with her family, most notably her son, Archer. It's a poignant reminder that even those who seem larger than life are, at their core, simply human.
The author's descriptive and atmospheric writing style is simply gorgeous, infusing the narrative with a sense of time and place. I was particularly enamored by the subtle period details seamlessly woven throughout. The use of 'sir' and 'Mrs. Worsham' between Collis and Belle, reminiscent of my own grandparents, was a delightful touch.
Belle's story deserves a wide readership. Her accomplishments are undeniably remarkable—lifting her family from poverty to a life of comfort. While some may raise eyebrows at her methods, she utilized the tools at her disposal to their fullest extent. However, amidst the opulence, the narrative doesn't shy away from the inherent loneliness of her position. Living in the shadows, even adorned in jewels, she grapples with a lingering sense of shame.
In sum, this book is a must-read. It sheds light on an extraordinary individual whose journey is as inspiring as it is cautionary. The prose is not only informative but also emotionally resonant, making for an enriching reading experience.
An utterly absorbing read that captivated me from beginning to end.
The portrayal of this remarkable woman is truly multifaceted—resourceful, cunning, and resilient, with a streak of mercenary determination. What truly resonated with me was the author's skillful exploration of her humanity, particularly in her interactions with her family, most notably her son, Archer. It's a poignant reminder that even those who seem larger than life are, at their core, simply human.
The author's descriptive and atmospheric writing style is simply gorgeous, infusing the narrative with a sense of time and place. I was particularly enamored by the subtle period details seamlessly woven throughout. The use of 'sir' and 'Mrs. Worsham' between Collis and Belle, reminiscent of my own grandparents, was a delightful touch.
Belle's story deserves a wide readership. Her accomplishments are undeniably remarkable—lifting her family from poverty to a life of comfort. While some may raise eyebrows at her methods, she utilized the tools at her disposal to their fullest extent. However, amidst the opulence, the narrative doesn't shy away from the inherent loneliness of her position. Living in the shadows, even adorned in jewels, she grapples with a lingering sense of shame.
In sum, this book is a must-read. It sheds light on an extraordinary individual whose journey is as inspiring as it is cautionary. The prose is not only informative but also emotionally resonant, making for an enriching reading experience.
March 30, 2023
I could not put this book down. I read half of it in one day. This book is about Arabella Huntington. (Huntington, WV anyone?) She went from rags to riches after catching a railroad tycoon's eye. He was married mind you. They stayed by each other's side till the wife eventually died and then Collis Huntington died so I mean I guess they were loyal to each other. This is about the gilded age and I love reading about this time period so I was excited when I won a copy from Kensington. Being a mistress you never know when everything can end and she was very bold with everything she did. Luckily she did not seem to care about not being able to go to the famous balls or being apart of the elite 400. She just lived her glamorous life. She gave millions to several charities including starting a cancer fund. This was a fascinating read.
-"It's a good gift to have, the ability to make things thrive."
-"God has surely fashioned a formidable being in you."
"Yes, thank you, I know."
-What a peculiar and heady power it was, to have money. It was as good as lightning at her fingertips, a secret magical wand from a folktale. She could wave her hand and anything she desired materialized.
-"You're in for a great deal of disappointment in life if you always expect people's exteriors to reflect their dispositions."
-"It's a good gift to have, the ability to make things thrive."
-"God has surely fashioned a formidable being in you."
"Yes, thank you, I know."
-What a peculiar and heady power it was, to have money. It was as good as lightning at her fingertips, a secret magical wand from a folktale. She could wave her hand and anything she desired materialized.
-"You're in for a great deal of disappointment in life if you always expect people's exteriors to reflect their dispositions."
May 5, 2023
I've been reading a lot about the Gilded Age this past year. One of the things that drew me to this book is the story of Arabella Huntington is clearly the basis for the character Sylvia Chamberlin in HBO's Gilded Age series. The time lines don't exactly match but the stories are very close. Arabella Yarrington and her family lived a precarious existence in Richmond after the Civil War. To provide for her mother and siblings, Arabella took a job as a champagne girl at a gaming hell and tavern. There she met Collis Huntington, a railroad magnate who fell in love with her and installed her as his mistress in Manhatten. Her entire family benefited and prospered. Collis and Belle had a son. Belle was smart, acquisitive and clever, building a small fortune of her own. When Collis' wife died, he and Belle married although she was never really accepted in society. Arabella Huntington was a real person as were the people in the story. Fascinating story.
April 25, 2023
I really enjoyed this one!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for my advanced listeners copy of An American Beauty!
I don't really have much to say.
An American Beauty was narrated by Gail Shalan.
This was my first time hearing her narrate and she did an exceptional job.
The book itself was well written, engaging and had the perfect balance of documented facts and blank spaces filled in by the authors imagination.
I loved reading and learning about Arabella Huntington and her family.
Overall- Recommend. I look forward to reading more books by Shana Abe.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for my advanced listeners copy of An American Beauty!
I don't really have much to say.
An American Beauty was narrated by Gail Shalan.
This was my first time hearing her narrate and she did an exceptional job.
The book itself was well written, engaging and had the perfect balance of documented facts and blank spaces filled in by the authors imagination.
I loved reading and learning about Arabella Huntington and her family.
Overall- Recommend. I look forward to reading more books by Shana Abe.
April 25, 2023
I love historical fiction about especially about the gilded age. This book was really enjoyable. I knew nothing about the Harrington's before reading this book.
The story follows the life of Arabella Huntington. She was the rumored mistress of Collis P. Huntington, a railroad tycoon. The story is a fictionalized version of her life and it is fascinating to read about life during the gilded age in America. I did feel like the book started to drag on towards the end, but I still enjoyed it!
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book to read and review.
The story follows the life of Arabella Huntington. She was the rumored mistress of Collis P. Huntington, a railroad tycoon. The story is a fictionalized version of her life and it is fascinating to read about life during the gilded age in America. I did feel like the book started to drag on towards the end, but I still enjoyed it!
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book to read and review.
May 24, 2023
I was interested in reading this book from the summary. While it is a good plot, and based on fact, it did not keep my attention very well. It dragged quite a bit to me. By half the book I was hoping it would end soon. That may be due to my lack of identifying with the main characters. I did not feel any sympathy or attachment to them. I understand when in certain circumstances, people may need to do actions that are not acceptable, but that does not make them okay.
While reading, I tried to keep my personal feelings about the actions of the characters in check and read the book as I would any work of fiction and escape the real world. Honestly that was difficult to do.
I think readers that like historical fiction would like this book. I think it was well developed and written, but maybe just not a book for me personally.
While reading, I tried to keep my personal feelings about the actions of the characters in check and read the book as I would any work of fiction and escape the real world. Honestly that was difficult to do.
I think readers that like historical fiction would like this book. I think it was well developed and written, but maybe just not a book for me personally.
July 1, 2023
Aardvark Book Club Pick for May
While not really my type of book, I can acknowledge this as a well-written novel. Arabella begins as a poor girl working in an illegal gambling house. Her family struggles to get by with their boarding house income. Then Arabella meets Collis P Huntington - a married man 30 years her senior - and their lives change. The entire family moves to New York to live in a home paid for by Collis and Arabella spends many years as his mistress. She utilizes her connection with Collis to make lucrative investments in land and art. She never forgets her roots, however.
The trajectory of the novel felt natural and the dialogue was good. Again, this isn't my usual type of book but if it's yours - or if you're looking for a change of pace - I definitely recommend it.
Rating: 4 / 5
While not really my type of book, I can acknowledge this as a well-written novel. Arabella begins as a poor girl working in an illegal gambling house. Her family struggles to get by with their boarding house income. Then Arabella meets Collis P Huntington - a married man 30 years her senior - and their lives change. The entire family moves to New York to live in a home paid for by Collis and Arabella spends many years as his mistress. She utilizes her connection with Collis to make lucrative investments in land and art. She never forgets her roots, however.
The trajectory of the novel felt natural and the dialogue was good. Again, this isn't my usual type of book but if it's yours - or if you're looking for a change of pace - I definitely recommend it.
Rating: 4 / 5
June 8, 2023
This book mostly follows Arabella and her journey from rags to riches. After her mom forces her get a job at illegal salon to help feed her brothers and sisters she meets a railroad tycoon, and so starts the story.
I enjoyed the book for the most part I loved the history of it and a women making the rules were unheard of for this time period. But it kind of dragged on for me. Bella was definitely good at getting what she wanted and conning her way into those things. But at times I was like ok where is the story going. It’s just fell a little flat for me.
Special thanks to kensingston for my copy form the between the chapters book club for my honest opinion.
I enjoyed the book for the most part I loved the history of it and a women making the rules were unheard of for this time period. But it kind of dragged on for me. Bella was definitely good at getting what she wanted and conning her way into those things. But at times I was like ok where is the story going. It’s just fell a little flat for me.
Special thanks to kensingston for my copy form the between the chapters book club for my honest opinion.
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