An American Beauty

By: Shana Abe

Narrated by: Gail Shalan

Length: 11 hrs and 34 mins

Publisher's summary

The New York Times bestselling author of The Second Mrs. Astor returns with a spellbinding new book perfect for fans of HBO's The Gilded Age and fans of Marie Benedict, Karen Harper, and Fiona Davis. 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 . . .

An American Beauty brings to vivid life the glitter and drama of a captivating chapter in history—and a remarkable woman who lived by her own rules.

"This story of one woman's ascent offers a fascinating look at the choices she made to become a Gilded Age titan."—Kirkus Reviews

©2023 Five Rabbits, Inc. (P)2023 Tantor

I’d make one change…

I wished the male voices would have been narrated by a male. Gail Shalan spoke the female character roles beautifully. The male voices were not convincing enough for these men of power.

Well built characters and story

loved loved loved this historic fiction piece! the only dislike I had was the narrator. Her raspy voice sounded like she was whispering through the book. several times I turned the volume up on my headphones, only to become temporary deaf when I forgot and switched to music. despite this, loved the story enough that I'll listen to it again, and probably make myself temporary deaf again, in the distant future.

Loved everything about it

Beautifully written loved how each character was developed
I couldn’t stop listening. I had no idea of these historical people. I have a thirst for more- more of the story, more of the narration and more info on the lives of these remarkable characters. I’m in the process of a second listen now Loved it!

Will recommend

Slow start but really becomes an incredible story. This is the second Shana Abe book I’ve read and loved! Excellent writing!

Narration brought historical novel to life

Loved learning about this time in History and the remarkable rise of Arabella Huntington! Fascinating story…The narrator captured the characters with ease and consistency (with their multiple accents from Virginia to Texas, NY and Europe) Very enjoyable listen.

Fascinating!

 An amazing story told in great detail! I hope she writes more like this novel in the future!!  I’m definitely a huge fan now!

Personality

I loved the strong personality of Arabella. She was powerful and amazing and I love how she came to life….

Good novel about the Gilded Age

This was a very good book. I did not know about this woman until reading this book. Please visit my channel. Blind Bookworm

One of the Best Reads!!!

From the first word to the last word I loved this book. An American Beauty is captivating. It’s so well written one feels as if they have been transported in time!

Great story with terrific narration

Growing up near the beautiful grounds of the Huntington Library is what intrigued me to select this book. Even as a child I was in awe of the collections, gardens and library. The details that developed in this book were made so colorful by it’s outstanding narration. The characters were easily identified and memorable as the storyline unfolded. I really enjoyed this selection and encourage you take take this journey as well. Thumbs up!