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The Colony Club
When young Gilded Age society matron Daisy Harriman is refused a room at the Waldorf because they don’t cater to unaccompanied females, she takes matters into her own hands. She establishes the Colony Club, the first women’s club in Manhattan, where visiting women can stay overnight and dine with their friends; where they can discuss new ideas, take on social issues, and make their voices heard. She hires the most sought-after architect in New York, Stanford White, to design the clubhouse.
As “the best dressed actress on the Rialto� Elsie de Wolfe has an eye for décor, but her career is stagnating. So when White asks her to design the clubhouse interiors, she jumps at the chance and the opportunity to add a woman’s touch. He promises to send her an assistant, a young woman he’s hired as a draftsman.
Raised in the Lower East Side tenements, Nora Bromely is determined to become an architect in spite of hostility and sabotage from her male colleagues. She is disappointed and angry when White “foists� her off on this new women’s club project.
But when White is murdered and the ensuing Trial of the Century discloses the architect’s scandalous personal life, fearful backers begin to withdraw their support. It’s questionable whether the club will survive long enough to open.
Daisy, Elsie, and Nora have nothing in common but their determination to carry on. But to do so, they must overcome not only society’s mores but their own prejudices about women, wealth, and each other. Together they strive to transform Daisy’s dream of the Colony Club into a reality, a place that will nurture social justice and ensure the work of the women who earned the nickname “Mink Brigade� far into the future.
As “the best dressed actress on the Rialto� Elsie de Wolfe has an eye for décor, but her career is stagnating. So when White asks her to design the clubhouse interiors, she jumps at the chance and the opportunity to add a woman’s touch. He promises to send her an assistant, a young woman he’s hired as a draftsman.
Raised in the Lower East Side tenements, Nora Bromely is determined to become an architect in spite of hostility and sabotage from her male colleagues. She is disappointed and angry when White “foists� her off on this new women’s club project.
But when White is murdered and the ensuing Trial of the Century discloses the architect’s scandalous personal life, fearful backers begin to withdraw their support. It’s questionable whether the club will survive long enough to open.
Daisy, Elsie, and Nora have nothing in common but their determination to carry on. But to do so, they must overcome not only society’s mores but their own prejudices about women, wealth, and each other. Together they strive to transform Daisy’s dream of the Colony Club into a reality, a place that will nurture social justice and ensure the work of the women who earned the nickname “Mink Brigade� far into the future.
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2024
273 people are currently reading
12568 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Noble
30books1,186followersShelley Noble is a multi published fiction author whose books have been translated into seven languages. She writes women’s fiction as Shelley Noble and is also the author of several amateur sleuth mystery series, written as Shelley Freydont.
A former professional dancer and choreographer, she most recently worked on the films, Mona Lisa Smile and The Game Plan. She also consults on various dance and theatre projects, most recently the world premiere of a full length Tom Sawyer ballet commissioned by Kansas City Ballet.
Shelley is a member of Sisters-in-Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Romance Writers of America, and Liberty States Fiction Writers.
She lives near the New Jersey shore. In her spare time she loves to discover new beaches and indulge her passion for lighthouses and boardwalks with vintage carousels.
A former professional dancer and choreographer, she most recently worked on the films, Mona Lisa Smile and The Game Plan. She also consults on various dance and theatre projects, most recently the world premiere of a full length Tom Sawyer ballet commissioned by Kansas City Ballet.
Shelley is a member of Sisters-in-Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Romance Writers of America, and Liberty States Fiction Writers.
She lives near the New Jersey shore. In her spare time she loves to discover new beaches and indulge her passion for lighthouses and boardwalks with vintage carousels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
October 13, 2024
Daisy Harriman is mad when she refused a room at the Waldorf because they don’t cater to unaccompanied females, she’s an adult, wife and mother and yet she can’t say in a hotel on her own.
Men have gentleman’s clubs, where they can sit around, chat, eat and have a drink and stay the night and she decides to build something that caters for ladies. Daisy and her friends come up with the idea to open the first female club in Manhattan, it will be called The Colony Club, here they can dine, discuss ideas, social issues (such as reducing the long working hours for children) and try and bring about change.
Daisy hires flamboyant Stanford White a partner of the well known architectural firm McKim, Mead and White in New York to design the clubhouse. Elise de Wolfe is an actress, her career is coming to an end and she’s good friends with Daisy Harriman. She's given the task of designing and furnishing the clubhouse's interior, she up for the challenge, men wouldn't know what women wanted.
Nora Bromely was raised in Brooklyn, she’s determined to become an architect and has recently finished her studies at New York School of Applied Design for Women. She’s shocked when Stanford White offers her a job as a draftsman, when she starts work and she’s the only women employed and is the brunt of sabotage and bullying by her male colleagues.
Nora has put up with this treatment for months, she feels angry and let down when she’s sent to help Elsie de Wolfe and Daisy Harriman. George Douglas is overseeing the building of The Colony Club, he informs Nora it’s not a step backwards, but a chance to learn and gain valuable experience.
The Colony Club is almost finished when Stanford White is caught up in a tragic scandal, Daisy, Elsie and Nora are determined for it to not delay the clubs opening and for Nora her job and hours of contribution to the project, reputation and future is on the line.
I received a copy of The Colony Club from HarperCollins and Edelweiss Plus in exchange for an unbiased review. A well written and interesting historical fiction story by Shelley Nobel and she uses two real women as inspiration for her latest novel. It looks at the challenges women faced at the time and it starts just before the Gilded Age, especially Nora, a woman working in a man’s world and I really admired her charter in the narrative, she was talented, resilient and she had spunk and wanted to provide a better life for her mother and younger sister.
Five stars from me and I highly recommend The Colony Club.
Men have gentleman’s clubs, where they can sit around, chat, eat and have a drink and stay the night and she decides to build something that caters for ladies. Daisy and her friends come up with the idea to open the first female club in Manhattan, it will be called The Colony Club, here they can dine, discuss ideas, social issues (such as reducing the long working hours for children) and try and bring about change.
Daisy hires flamboyant Stanford White a partner of the well known architectural firm McKim, Mead and White in New York to design the clubhouse. Elise de Wolfe is an actress, her career is coming to an end and she’s good friends with Daisy Harriman. She's given the task of designing and furnishing the clubhouse's interior, she up for the challenge, men wouldn't know what women wanted.
Nora Bromely was raised in Brooklyn, she’s determined to become an architect and has recently finished her studies at New York School of Applied Design for Women. She’s shocked when Stanford White offers her a job as a draftsman, when she starts work and she’s the only women employed and is the brunt of sabotage and bullying by her male colleagues.
Nora has put up with this treatment for months, she feels angry and let down when she’s sent to help Elsie de Wolfe and Daisy Harriman. George Douglas is overseeing the building of The Colony Club, he informs Nora it’s not a step backwards, but a chance to learn and gain valuable experience.
The Colony Club is almost finished when Stanford White is caught up in a tragic scandal, Daisy, Elsie and Nora are determined for it to not delay the clubs opening and for Nora her job and hours of contribution to the project, reputation and future is on the line.
I received a copy of The Colony Club from HarperCollins and Edelweiss Plus in exchange for an unbiased review. A well written and interesting historical fiction story by Shelley Nobel and she uses two real women as inspiration for her latest novel. It looks at the challenges women faced at the time and it starts just before the Gilded Age, especially Nora, a woman working in a man’s world and I really admired her charter in the narrative, she was talented, resilient and she had spunk and wanted to provide a better life for her mother and younger sister.
Five stars from me and I highly recommend The Colony Club.
October 1, 2024
Available Today 10/01/2024
I just love reading books about the Gilded Age. This is a very interesting Historical Fiction Novel featuring women establishing a club for women only. The characters are real and fictional. Daisy Harriman is a real person who is furious when she is denied a room at the Waldorf because she is an unaccompanied female. She decides to take things in her own hands. She plans on opening her own club just like the men have.
The story begins in 1963 when Daisy is being interviewed after receiving the prestigious President Kennedy citation of merit award. She reflects throughout the book on her life and how The Colony Club was created.
Daisy hires the best architect in New York City, Stanford White. He employs, Nora Bromely to be an architect in his all male firm. Nora is thrilled with the opportunity.
The men treat her badly. They pull pranks and sabotage to discourage her. But they do not win. Nora endures it all. She becomes very disappointed when he reassigns her to be the assistant to the designer on the Colony Club.
This was a captivating story with real and fictional characters. It was very well researched. I just loved reading about Nora and what she was up to next. There was no stopping this woman. She was a very strong willed woman who wanted to be an architect.
A compelling story.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for this advanced readers copy.
I just love reading books about the Gilded Age. This is a very interesting Historical Fiction Novel featuring women establishing a club for women only. The characters are real and fictional. Daisy Harriman is a real person who is furious when she is denied a room at the Waldorf because she is an unaccompanied female. She decides to take things in her own hands. She plans on opening her own club just like the men have.
The story begins in 1963 when Daisy is being interviewed after receiving the prestigious President Kennedy citation of merit award. She reflects throughout the book on her life and how The Colony Club was created.
Daisy hires the best architect in New York City, Stanford White. He employs, Nora Bromely to be an architect in his all male firm. Nora is thrilled with the opportunity.
The men treat her badly. They pull pranks and sabotage to discourage her. But they do not win. Nora endures it all. She becomes very disappointed when he reassigns her to be the assistant to the designer on the Colony Club.
This was a captivating story with real and fictional characters. It was very well researched. I just loved reading about Nora and what she was up to next. There was no stopping this woman. She was a very strong willed woman who wanted to be an architect.
A compelling story.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for this advanced readers copy.
October 14, 2024
The Colony Club by Shelley Noble imagines the story of three captivating women at the beginning of 20th-century New York.
Daisy Harriman makes her mark as a trailblazer in creating first women’s club when such spaces were meant only for men. It all began when she was refused a room at the Waldorf in 1902 because she was not accompanied by a man.
Daisy turned this obstacle into action. However, founding a club at a time when women needed man’s permission for nearly any action wasn’t easy. It took two years for the club to be fully formed, as some women were forbidden by their husbands to join. But Daisy persisted, seeing the bigger picture. She envisioned a place where women could be themselves without chaperones, where they could freely discuss the issues that mattered to them. She wanted women to have a voice.
After two years of struggle to establish the Colony Club, both in name and physical form, Daisy’s privileged life contrasts sharply with that of Nora, a fictional character representing the women of her time who aspired to be architects but found it difficult to secure permanent positions. Many worked as independent contractors, a reality portrayed through Nora’s story.
At the end of Nora’s study, she enters a competition that she wins, leading her to independent work with McKim, Mead and White. At the time, Stanford White was the most sought-after architect in New York, and Daisy hired him to design the clubhouse. When Nora becomes involved in the project, her path crosses with Elsie de Wolfe. Elsie, known more for her fashion than her acting, was encouraged by her powerful agent, Bessie Marbury, to pursue interior decorating. Thus, two creative minds - Nora and Elsie - come together. Elsie, though gifted in design, lacks the ability to draw, which is where Nora’s skills come in. Elsie’s lavish imagination is translated onto paper by Nora.
The story follows the actions of these three women. Daisy engages in philanthropic efforts, and during her time in France, she learns about progressive law of ten-hour workdays for children, hoping to pass something half as enlightened in the States. Elsie’s opulent and costly decorative pursuits offer a vivid glimpse into the Gilded Age New York. Meanwhile, Nora faces hostility and sabotage from her male colleagues as she fights for recognition in her field.
As the Colony Club is taking shape, the lives of the three characters are suddenly shaken by the murder of Stanford White, whose scandalous personal life comes to life during his trial.
The novel embodies determination, the overcoming of prejudices, and the coming together of individuals to fulfill a dream with a larger purpose � a place that nurtures social justices.
Written with engaging prose, this fascinating story reveals a rich historical background and explores the intriguing mystery of a man whose life’s work is tarnished by revelations that emerge after his death.
I found the pace uneven, thus 4 stars.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Daisy Harriman makes her mark as a trailblazer in creating first women’s club when such spaces were meant only for men. It all began when she was refused a room at the Waldorf in 1902 because she was not accompanied by a man.
Daisy turned this obstacle into action. However, founding a club at a time when women needed man’s permission for nearly any action wasn’t easy. It took two years for the club to be fully formed, as some women were forbidden by their husbands to join. But Daisy persisted, seeing the bigger picture. She envisioned a place where women could be themselves without chaperones, where they could freely discuss the issues that mattered to them. She wanted women to have a voice.
After two years of struggle to establish the Colony Club, both in name and physical form, Daisy’s privileged life contrasts sharply with that of Nora, a fictional character representing the women of her time who aspired to be architects but found it difficult to secure permanent positions. Many worked as independent contractors, a reality portrayed through Nora’s story.
At the end of Nora’s study, she enters a competition that she wins, leading her to independent work with McKim, Mead and White. At the time, Stanford White was the most sought-after architect in New York, and Daisy hired him to design the clubhouse. When Nora becomes involved in the project, her path crosses with Elsie de Wolfe. Elsie, known more for her fashion than her acting, was encouraged by her powerful agent, Bessie Marbury, to pursue interior decorating. Thus, two creative minds - Nora and Elsie - come together. Elsie, though gifted in design, lacks the ability to draw, which is where Nora’s skills come in. Elsie’s lavish imagination is translated onto paper by Nora.
The story follows the actions of these three women. Daisy engages in philanthropic efforts, and during her time in France, she learns about progressive law of ten-hour workdays for children, hoping to pass something half as enlightened in the States. Elsie’s opulent and costly decorative pursuits offer a vivid glimpse into the Gilded Age New York. Meanwhile, Nora faces hostility and sabotage from her male colleagues as she fights for recognition in her field.
As the Colony Club is taking shape, the lives of the three characters are suddenly shaken by the murder of Stanford White, whose scandalous personal life comes to life during his trial.
The novel embodies determination, the overcoming of prejudices, and the coming together of individuals to fulfill a dream with a larger purpose � a place that nurtures social justices.
Written with engaging prose, this fascinating story reveals a rich historical background and explores the intriguing mystery of a man whose life’s work is tarnished by revelations that emerge after his death.
I found the pace uneven, thus 4 stars.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2024
The Colony Club is an inspiring, powerful tribute to the Gilded Age women who broke through barriers to create their own place in the world. This impeccably researched story features real events and people in history, spotlighting the amazing feats women can accomplish when they support each other.
October 1, 2024
You can find The Colony Club on sale today!!
Imagine you want to travel out of town to visit New York City. You’re a wife, mother and a wealthy socialite but you’re refused a room at the Waldorf because you’re traveling alone. What?! But Daisy Harriman our Gilded Age heroine isn’t going to stand for it! Daisy decides to start a social club for women in the heart of Manhattan. A place for women to gather socially, share a meal, attend meetings on some of the days most important topics, and spend the night when visting from out of town. She won’t do it alone however and brings in many of her wealthy and well connected friends to plan and execute her ideas. Daisy isn’t the only woman who is taking a stand and challenging the male dominated society of that age though. We also meet Nora Bromley, a young female architect fresh out of school. Nora is talented and is offered a job as a draftsman at one of New York’s most well established firms. She is the only female in the department. She must fight discrimination and bullying daily from the men that she works with, and even fight off a scandal she is drawn into thru no fault of her own which causes her to lose her apartment, and draw the ire of some of her friends and family. Nora rises to the challenges and soon she is working on the Colony Club project. Nora is assigned to work with Elsie de Wolfe, an actress in NYC whose acting career is faltering, but whose artistic flair in decorating is attracting admirers. Elsie will design the interior of the Colony Club with Nora by her side. This job was usually left to the male architects who designed the buildings so Elsie becomes a pioneer in interior design!
This is a wonderfully written and engaging historical fiction. The characters are full of life and inspiring as they challenge many of the norms of their day, paving the way for the women in their own era and for those who will follow in the future. Truly a delightful read! Be sure to read the author’s note at the end!
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced reader copy!
Imagine you want to travel out of town to visit New York City. You’re a wife, mother and a wealthy socialite but you’re refused a room at the Waldorf because you’re traveling alone. What?! But Daisy Harriman our Gilded Age heroine isn’t going to stand for it! Daisy decides to start a social club for women in the heart of Manhattan. A place for women to gather socially, share a meal, attend meetings on some of the days most important topics, and spend the night when visting from out of town. She won’t do it alone however and brings in many of her wealthy and well connected friends to plan and execute her ideas. Daisy isn’t the only woman who is taking a stand and challenging the male dominated society of that age though. We also meet Nora Bromley, a young female architect fresh out of school. Nora is talented and is offered a job as a draftsman at one of New York’s most well established firms. She is the only female in the department. She must fight discrimination and bullying daily from the men that she works with, and even fight off a scandal she is drawn into thru no fault of her own which causes her to lose her apartment, and draw the ire of some of her friends and family. Nora rises to the challenges and soon she is working on the Colony Club project. Nora is assigned to work with Elsie de Wolfe, an actress in NYC whose acting career is faltering, but whose artistic flair in decorating is attracting admirers. Elsie will design the interior of the Colony Club with Nora by her side. This job was usually left to the male architects who designed the buildings so Elsie becomes a pioneer in interior design!
This is a wonderfully written and engaging historical fiction. The characters are full of life and inspiring as they challenge many of the norms of their day, paving the way for the women in their own era and for those who will follow in the future. Truly a delightful read! Be sure to read the author’s note at the end!
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced reader copy!
October 4, 2024
I received a copy for review purposes; all opinions are honest and mine alone.
Taking place during the Guilded Age, THE COLONY CLUB, by Shelley Noble, is an historical fiction novel that’s a deft blend of real people and events supported by characters from the mind of this talented writer. Noble employs dual timelines but I found them difficult. Fortunately, the two time periods are not a critical factor for the telling of this story. I suggest reading the author’s note prior to starting the story. It will help readers understand the historical significance behind this intriguing story.
Much of the story focuses on building the actual COLONY CLUB - a social club completely dedicated to women. It’s a real building still in existence today. The actual club membership grew so large the women needed a larger building so the club was moved and still serves women today, altho� men can visit now. The key characters are a blend of real and fictional women who are strong, resilient and supportive of each other. It was impressive to watch their interactions over the vast divide between their social statuses. Men are split into antagonists or mild love interests/mentors. Their roles are minor, compared to the women.
My favorite group of characters was the secretaries at the architecture office. Diverse in backgrounds and skills, these girls all rallied together and provided support in a male dominated environment. This was a tough time period for women and Noble does an admirable job presenting the challenges without being snarky towards the men.
Architecture, Interior Design, Healthcare, Women’s Rights & Roles, Integrity, Reputation, Family, Education - these are key themes in this book. Add in a murder, trial and an unstable, unreliable class that usually narrates life and you’ve got the makings of an important historical snapshot in time📚
Read and Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC with thanks
Taking place during the Guilded Age, THE COLONY CLUB, by Shelley Noble, is an historical fiction novel that’s a deft blend of real people and events supported by characters from the mind of this talented writer. Noble employs dual timelines but I found them difficult. Fortunately, the two time periods are not a critical factor for the telling of this story. I suggest reading the author’s note prior to starting the story. It will help readers understand the historical significance behind this intriguing story.
Much of the story focuses on building the actual COLONY CLUB - a social club completely dedicated to women. It’s a real building still in existence today. The actual club membership grew so large the women needed a larger building so the club was moved and still serves women today, altho� men can visit now. The key characters are a blend of real and fictional women who are strong, resilient and supportive of each other. It was impressive to watch their interactions over the vast divide between their social statuses. Men are split into antagonists or mild love interests/mentors. Their roles are minor, compared to the women.
My favorite group of characters was the secretaries at the architecture office. Diverse in backgrounds and skills, these girls all rallied together and provided support in a male dominated environment. This was a tough time period for women and Noble does an admirable job presenting the challenges without being snarky towards the men.
Architecture, Interior Design, Healthcare, Women’s Rights & Roles, Integrity, Reputation, Family, Education - these are key themes in this book. Add in a murder, trial and an unstable, unreliable class that usually narrates life and you’ve got the makings of an important historical snapshot in time📚
Read and Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC with thanks
October 21, 2024
I love historical fiction books that are able to successfully transport me to worlds I knew little about and it's even better when they feature strong, trailblazing women.
Set in Gilded age New York City, this story blends fact with fiction and follows two women, one an aspiring architect and the other an actress turned interior designer, who both find themselves working on The Colony club building - the first women's only society club of its kind in the early 20th century.
Fascinating, inspiring and about a subject I didn't know about before picking the book up, this kept my interest from start to finish and resonates for women in the workplace today who are still dealing with gendered wage gaps and sexism.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the William Morrow for sending me a digital and physical copy in exchange for my honest review!
Set in Gilded age New York City, this story blends fact with fiction and follows two women, one an aspiring architect and the other an actress turned interior designer, who both find themselves working on The Colony club building - the first women's only society club of its kind in the early 20th century.
Fascinating, inspiring and about a subject I didn't know about before picking the book up, this kept my interest from start to finish and resonates for women in the workplace today who are still dealing with gendered wage gaps and sexism.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the William Morrow for sending me a digital and physical copy in exchange for my honest review!
May 22, 2024
This was a new to be author with a book that sounded interesting. It is historical fiction--focusing on the creation of the actual real place The Colony Club...the first women's club in New York. The setting is the Gilded Age of New York high society. The book opens with a journalist doing an interview of Daisy Harriman--the original creator of The Colony Club. And she reflects on how it came into existence.
There are a few key narratives: Daisy, Elsie de Wolfe, and Nora Bromley. Each of them plays a key part in the creation of the club...as the creator, the first American female interior designer, and a female architect. Set amongst the story is the scandalous life of Stanford White--famous designer and architect. The author wove in many real characters amidst the fiction.
There is implied Lesbian relationship of Elsie and her partner--but it's always referred to as her partner or companion without any details. Only those who would know of the history would know their relationship.
I think Nora was my favorite character. Especially when she climbs the scaffolding! :)
I found it interesting, but it wasn't such that I couldn't put it down. It was just okay.
*I was given a complimentary copy of the book from the publishers and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
There are a few key narratives: Daisy, Elsie de Wolfe, and Nora Bromley. Each of them plays a key part in the creation of the club...as the creator, the first American female interior designer, and a female architect. Set amongst the story is the scandalous life of Stanford White--famous designer and architect. The author wove in many real characters amidst the fiction.
There is implied Lesbian relationship of Elsie and her partner--but it's always referred to as her partner or companion without any details. Only those who would know of the history would know their relationship.
I think Nora was my favorite character. Especially when she climbs the scaffolding! :)
I found it interesting, but it wasn't such that I couldn't put it down. It was just okay.
*I was given a complimentary copy of the book from the publishers and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
January 26, 2025
A very entertaining and enlightening historical fiction novel featuring the culture and personalities of the Gilded Age in NYC, as well as the burgeoning suffragist and social issues.
Very well narrated by Caroline Hewitt.
Very well narrated by Caroline Hewitt.
August 26, 2024
I love historical fiction, and what better era to choose than the Gilded Age? This was a time when women were starting to realize their worth, yearning for equality, and fighting for the rights of all. This was a very liberal era in certain circles. Of course, it sure helped if you had money!
Ms. Noble was certainly able to blend fact with just a touch of fiction and did it with elegance. She chose a complex subject, spun a tale (most of it historically factual), and pulled the reader into the era in a way that made me feel as if I were making history.
It is a perfect blending of fact and fiction.
*ARC was supplied by the publisher William Morrow Paperbacks, the author, and NetGalley.
Ms. Noble was certainly able to blend fact with just a touch of fiction and did it with elegance. She chose a complex subject, spun a tale (most of it historically factual), and pulled the reader into the era in a way that made me feel as if I were making history.
It is a perfect blending of fact and fiction.
*ARC was supplied by the publisher William Morrow Paperbacks, the author, and NetGalley.
November 16, 2024
Historical fiction about the founding and building of the first club for women - The Colony Club. It still exists today and last month I was invited to a client dinner there. After seeing the space I knew I wanted to learn more and luckily had this on my shelves! The book was more about architecture than I anticipated but I enjoyed it!
October 30, 2024
Audiobook.
I liked this one! About women in the early 1900s starting a social club and navigating the man’s world. An up and coming woman architect is helping build the club and another woman working alongside and establishing interior design as a profession. Would have liked a little more romance but maybe I’m just a wh*re!
I liked this one! About women in the early 1900s starting a social club and navigating the man’s world. An up and coming woman architect is helping build the club and another woman working alongside and establishing interior design as a profession. Would have liked a little more romance but maybe I’m just a wh*re!
October 20, 2024
Shelley Noble does such an unusually wonderful job of choosing unique subjects for her historical fiction novels, and The Colony Club continues in that tradition.
If you’re a New Yorker of familiar with city history you’ve likely heard of the Colony Club, but I had no idea of its history before reading this beyond a few bits and bobs about the original location. Noble takes some liberties with the story, but the creative touches are good ones, and the historical content is both well-researched and well told as a part of a semi-fictional narrative.
I love Noble’s characters, and I think she does well making them easy to root for without hobbling them with one-dimensionality.
The architectural history used here is pretty sound, and Noble does a wonderful job of bringing it to life in the context of the story.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
If you’re a New Yorker of familiar with city history you’ve likely heard of the Colony Club, but I had no idea of its history before reading this beyond a few bits and bobs about the original location. Noble takes some liberties with the story, but the creative touches are good ones, and the historical content is both well-researched and well told as a part of a semi-fictional narrative.
I love Noble’s characters, and I think she does well making them easy to root for without hobbling them with one-dimensionality.
The architectural history used here is pretty sound, and Noble does a wonderful job of bringing it to life in the context of the story.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
November 17, 2024
When I read the premise of women starting their own and the first club in NYC, I was intrigued, as i love women empowerment stories. However, the book and storyline unfolded rapidly and lacked the depth and character building I love. Just ok.
May 9, 2025
A timely reminder that change takes persistence, power, and showing up
I came to The Colony Club expecting Gilded Age glamour. What I got was something far more inspiring—a story of women navigating (and manipulating) the rigid structures of power to make space for themselves and others.
As a woman who got her start later in life—divorced, MBA after kids, and now climbing the corporate ladder in a male-dominated industry—this book spoke to me in unexpected ways. The women in these pages didn’t wait for permission to lead; they found quiet, brilliant ways to build influence in a world that actively excluded them.
This book landed at the perfect time. With a new administration in office and our rights once again up for debate, The Colony Club reminded me that the fight for progress is long but not impossible. These women made change happen without protest signs or social media—but with resilience, strategy, and sisterhood. It inspired me to keep moving forward—both in the boardroom and in the streets.
Highly recommend for readers who love stories of historical feminism, quiet rebellion, and women who refuse to sit down.
I came to The Colony Club expecting Gilded Age glamour. What I got was something far more inspiring—a story of women navigating (and manipulating) the rigid structures of power to make space for themselves and others.
As a woman who got her start later in life—divorced, MBA after kids, and now climbing the corporate ladder in a male-dominated industry—this book spoke to me in unexpected ways. The women in these pages didn’t wait for permission to lead; they found quiet, brilliant ways to build influence in a world that actively excluded them.
This book landed at the perfect time. With a new administration in office and our rights once again up for debate, The Colony Club reminded me that the fight for progress is long but not impossible. These women made change happen without protest signs or social media—but with resilience, strategy, and sisterhood. It inspired me to keep moving forward—both in the boardroom and in the streets.
Highly recommend for readers who love stories of historical feminism, quiet rebellion, and women who refuse to sit down.
June 20, 2024
I enjoyed reading about this strong group of women! The creation of the first women’s social club by Daisy Harriman was more than I expected. It seems like the beginning of her lifelong work as an organizer and social reformer for causes such as women’s suffrage, tuberculosis treatment, working and living conditions, child labor laws, food purity and more. I’d love to read more on her! Elsie de Wolfe, considered the first interior designer, and Stanford White, the architect with a controversial private life were interesting too. But my favorite character was probably Nora, who was fictional. She depicted a single woman who worked hard to become known as an architect in her own right and her struggles to get there. She came into her own. I didn’t love the side story with her family, that could’ve been better or just left out. I’d love to see this become a series that delves more into each of these women because I feel like I only got a taste. I’ll definitely try this author again.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins Publishers for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins Publishers for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review
August 16, 2024
The Colony Club by Shelley Noble is a great historical fiction that I enjoyed.
This was a great multiple voice, turn of the century, collective narrative that gave the reader a full view of what society, culture, and relationships were like at the beginning of the 20th century. Through the eyes of several women, we can see the struggles, difficulties, and landscapes that women had to endure, overcome, and wade through to have a voice. Through these stories, we can see the obstacles, but we can also see the beauty, strength, passion, and determination of these pioneers.
The author did a great job of painting a realistic picture, giving us images of a life and existence of another time, all the while keeping us engaged and entertained.
I liked this one.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/1/24.
This was a great multiple voice, turn of the century, collective narrative that gave the reader a full view of what society, culture, and relationships were like at the beginning of the 20th century. Through the eyes of several women, we can see the struggles, difficulties, and landscapes that women had to endure, overcome, and wade through to have a voice. Through these stories, we can see the obstacles, but we can also see the beauty, strength, passion, and determination of these pioneers.
The author did a great job of painting a realistic picture, giving us images of a life and existence of another time, all the while keeping us engaged and entertained.
I liked this one.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/1/24.
January 10, 2025
I loved, loved, loved this book! What a wonderful historical fiction story.
I knew nothing about the creation of the Colony Club but it was fascinating to learn about, particularly seeing the ridiculous battles women had to fight simply to do the most basic things. This was not that long ago and one doesn't think of the Gilded Age in New York as the dark ages, but where women and women's rights are concerned it basically was.
There were many points where I just wanted to scream or punch someone at the unbelievable discrimination and attacks women had to deal with for simply trying to earn a living. It is so inspiring to think of how hard women had to fight so I and other women in my era can easily do all the things we take for granted.
I really liked that this story is told through the perspectives of three interconnected and very different women. We get to experience the events from all angles and it felt like a really fulsome and comprehensive view of the story. All three of the women are interesting and for the most part likable. They certainly aren't perfect but they were engaging and I enjoyed meeting them and going on this journey with all three of them.
The writing in the book was excellent. I was completely engrossed from the very first page and flew through the story to the end, enjoying every moment I spent with this book. If you are interested in solid historical fiction, strong female characters and great writing then I highly recommend this book.
I knew nothing about the creation of the Colony Club but it was fascinating to learn about, particularly seeing the ridiculous battles women had to fight simply to do the most basic things. This was not that long ago and one doesn't think of the Gilded Age in New York as the dark ages, but where women and women's rights are concerned it basically was.
There were many points where I just wanted to scream or punch someone at the unbelievable discrimination and attacks women had to deal with for simply trying to earn a living. It is so inspiring to think of how hard women had to fight so I and other women in my era can easily do all the things we take for granted.
I really liked that this story is told through the perspectives of three interconnected and very different women. We get to experience the events from all angles and it felt like a really fulsome and comprehensive view of the story. All three of the women are interesting and for the most part likable. They certainly aren't perfect but they were engaging and I enjoyed meeting them and going on this journey with all three of them.
The writing in the book was excellent. I was completely engrossed from the very first page and flew through the story to the end, enjoying every moment I spent with this book. If you are interested in solid historical fiction, strong female characters and great writing then I highly recommend this book.
September 13, 2024
This is the type of book that I love to read: historical fiction based on the lives of trail blazing women. And then throw in a murder, and I’m sold! This novel features 2 real-life figures, society matron Daisy Harriman and glamorous actress Elsie de Wolfe, and 1 fictitious female architect, Nora Bromley, who come together to design and build the first women’s club in New York City during the Gilded Age. The women have to fight misogyny and overcome the scandal resulting from the murder of the primary architect on the project, Stanford White. l enjoy reading about high society during the Gilded Age, and this novel was clearly well researched. Unfortunately it didn’t grab my attention enough that I felt unable to put it down. I think I was anticipating more focus on the murder and subsequent trial, and not the day to day life of the 3 women during construction. 3.5/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
May 3, 2025
Sweet, Fast Paced Perspective of the Gilded Age
A cheerful, motivating, historical fiction book, about the beginning of the 20th century for the American high society in New York. Ambitious female characters from different venues of life come together around an inovative project: to create the first club for women. Different personal challenges are depicted: an achitect struggling to start a career in a male-dominated profession, an actress looking for a more suitable field of work, a socialite who is also fighting for justice and honorable causes, are the focal viewpoints for the unfolding of the story.
Interesting glimpse into a past society, where different values from ours, nowadays, were leading the show.
A cheerful, motivating, historical fiction book, about the beginning of the 20th century for the American high society in New York. Ambitious female characters from different venues of life come together around an inovative project: to create the first club for women. Different personal challenges are depicted: an achitect struggling to start a career in a male-dominated profession, an actress looking for a more suitable field of work, a socialite who is also fighting for justice and honorable causes, are the focal viewpoints for the unfolding of the story.
Interesting glimpse into a past society, where different values from ours, nowadays, were leading the show.
January 8, 2025
I had to wait to finish this because I was listening to it on Spotify and my hours ran out for the month 🫣
But I absolutely loved it!
Anyone who loves the early 1900s, whether it’s for the history or just the vibes, would love this. The characters had depth, were funny, caring, determined. At the end, I was kicking my feet and crying at the same time.
Learning about these women makes me want to go on a binge of everything I could possibly learn about them, including going to New York to visit the original building.
But I absolutely loved it!
Anyone who loves the early 1900s, whether it’s for the history or just the vibes, would love this. The characters had depth, were funny, caring, determined. At the end, I was kicking my feet and crying at the same time.
Learning about these women makes me want to go on a binge of everything I could possibly learn about them, including going to New York to visit the original building.
October 17, 2024
This book takes place during the Gilded Age which was an interesting and exciting time period in America. The Colony Club was created and established by strong women who created the first women only club. It was a place for women to dine, stay overnight unchaperoned, learn, share ideas and discuss social issues.
Some of Shelley Noble's characters are based on real women. Daisy was a socialite and her husband supported her endeavors which warmed my heart. Elsie was a beautiful former actress who became the first interior decorator in America. My favorite character, Nora, was a fictional character who was an architect in a male dominated field while caring for her family. When Stanford White, a real person and an architect, is murdered, the future of The Colony Club and these three women are at risk.
I enjoyed the story of these women and highly recommend the book! Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced reader copy!
Some of Shelley Noble's characters are based on real women. Daisy was a socialite and her husband supported her endeavors which warmed my heart. Elsie was a beautiful former actress who became the first interior decorator in America. My favorite character, Nora, was a fictional character who was an architect in a male dominated field while caring for her family. When Stanford White, a real person and an architect, is murdered, the future of The Colony Club and these three women are at risk.
I enjoyed the story of these women and highly recommend the book! Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced reader copy!
Read
October 10, 2024I enjoyed learning about women’s roles and how they were changing in early 20th century New York. I was especially interested in Nora’s story as she fought to become an architect. I want to learn even more about Daisy Harriman and would love to visit the actual Colony Club which still exists!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC.
June 10, 2025
I am having a hard time rating this book. It was good, a bit slow at times, but I really liked the characters of Nora and George but it wasn't what I was expecting. The plot was good, but I felt it just didn't go far enough. I wanted a bit more of Nora, and less of Elsie. Based on true events and I do recommend it to anyone interested in women's empowerment in the early 20th century.
July 31, 2024
Interesting read. 3.5. Not one of those books you can’t put down, but I love historical fiction, and reading about ladies ready for a change kept me going. Even in the early 1900’s, as great change was being felt in nearly every section of society, most women, by law and custom, were still tethered to home and husband. But Daisy, Elsie, Bessie, and eventually Nora, made their mark. Would love to see what the Colony Club looks like today!
January 3, 2025
Great read.
Loved the character development in the story and
how the author made characters likable and unlikeable (nast) as I read I look up some of the characters and the author did a great job of following the history of the characters
Loved the character development in the story and
how the author made characters likable and unlikeable (nast) as I read I look up some of the characters and the author did a great job of following the history of the characters
March 10, 2025
String 4.5 stars. Very interesting time period and story of provider women and what they could and could not do. Loved the stories that were sprinkled throughout as well as the authenticity of the story. Great historical fiction that wasn’t a war story
April 16, 2025
Who knew a woman couldn't reserve and occupy a hotel room by herself? And some aspects of life never change, guilt through association, and guilty before being found so in a court of public opinion and the media ( newspapers in the 1900's). An interesting read of perseverance.
October 5, 2024
THE COLONY CLUB
BY: SHELLEY NOBLE
About 4,5 Stars!
"THE COLONY CLUB," by Shelley Noble, is a historical novel, which includes the most factual lives of people in the genre that I've encountered involved in one novel. They were relevant to have been involved in the creation of the spectacular, factual place, named the Colony Club which was the first ever all women's clubhouse to have been created in history. It was an innovative project whose inception, and the execution was to have involved all women. Up to that time, only men had the perks of a grand meeting place, to enjoy the comforts of home where they could gather in one place in New York City, society exclusive to men only. The creation of the Colony Club, was a new idea to have been planned to give women the same extraordinary type of place to gather, offering amenities where women could enjoy the same benefits that existed for men only. This was a significant step towards women's equality, but this was remarkable in how it was established to surprise me the grandeur of how this historic first class all women's clubhouse turned out to be a place so magnificent. It offered so much it seemed unbelievable in terms of what is described that was progressive in which spared no expense. It started out as a place where society women could provide rooms for a place to stay overnight, and could gather to meet for socialites whose interests were to help those less fortunate in society. The story of the process that features how the Colony Club was built, were mostly featured by factual people makes this a terrific reading choice. I think in this novel which HF is a favorite genre of mine, featured the most factual people in one narrative that I've ever encountered. To think that a germ of an idea from one woman is what transpired to become a historically fact based institution
that was a staggering clubhouse of such comfort planned by women is a story of epic proportions.
The novel starts out in Washington D.C. on April 18, 1963, with Daisy Harriman, being interviewed by a journalist named Meg, who she's told by the woman whose idea for this women's first of it's kind clubhouse, among many achievements features Daisy at ninety-two years old. Daisy was asked what it feels like to be the first-ever recipient of President Kennedy's, Citation of Merit Award? Daisy's real full name was Florence Jaffray Hurst Harriman, who is the only one left, of her small family. It leads to her telling this journalist who the story is told by placing Daisy in the present day in 1902, at the beginning of the Twentieth Century. After being unable to get a room at the Waldorf, because she was unaccompanied by her husband, came up with the idea of having the first ever women's clubhouse built called, "The Colony Club." Most of this novel is about how much thought, money, time, and work went into making it sound like a truly modern marvel. It was created during the first decade of the twentieth century. It is described throughout the narrative in fascinating detail to be a truly magnificent accomplishment, not only for the the first decade of it's era, when it was built, but even by today's standards it would be impressive. The book elaborates through the likable characters, who worked to make the idea become a reality which I can still visualize due to the terrific, well written descriptions that resulted in a place for women, to gather and help make changes for those who were poor. To advocate for them for improving their lives which was enduring lives of hardship. That many society women cared to make life improvements for those who were subjected to poor standards make this historical fiction novel intriguing. Both the fancy institution, The Colony Club, and Daisy are actually based on the factual historic record. There was The Princeton Club for men to meet, but nothing of it's kind that existed for women at that time period. The young woman named Meg who is meeting with Daisy, is impressed with all of her accomplishments, such as: Social reformer, union organizer, politician and diplomat, but the focus is how much effort went into the creation of the Colony Club. Meg, while interviewing Daisy remarks how Daisy was able to accomplish so much, before the women in that era had been finally able to be able to vote. Daisy had a supportive husband, and in the beginning as she is interviewed, her husband who had been a background character was mentioned to have not lived to see Daisy receive her: Citation of Merit for Distinguished Service to Florence Jaffray Hurst Harriman. She mentions that her daughter didn't live to see Daisy receive her award, either. I didn't see her daughter woven into this uplifting, heartwarming historical fiction that I'm so grateful to have read. My enjoyment is owed to how Shelley Noble managed to bring the characters to a vivid, breathing, three dimensional life. That aspect really helped me to remain immersed into such a beautifully, spellbinding story, that captivated my interest. Since the main focus is based on the first women's clubhouse designed by an architectural icon, who was based on a factual person that worked on it whose talent created an opulent, and glorious building of the first its kind that enlightened me was rewarding to learn. I am happy if I learn something new, which is fascinating how the author's gifted way she presented this part of history helped me to enjoy this as much as I did. It was masterfully written by an author whose talent is evident by how she wrote so well, that made this unputdownable. It takes skill to make the building that has the historic significance of being the first of its kind so compelling. It had its appeal with being the first of many other facets, as well.
The journalist named Meg, is astonished that Daisy didn't choose to be content with donating to various causes from the comfort of her home as a young society matron living comfortably in New York City. Instead, Daisy chose to take an active role by protesting in the streets regarding the inequities of society. She risked her reputation, and her physical safety to inaugurate change.
The novel starts in August, 1902, in Newport, Rhode Island, which I have seen the mansions where the rich flock to in the Summer months, and it is especially breathtaking to see the grandeur of the estates even today. In the novel it begins where Daisy tells her husband since their townhouse in New York City, is being renovated, and she needs to go back down to the city for a day or two to run some errands that she didn't have time to do before arriving in Newport. She is amazed when she had Miss Gleason call the Waldorf to reserve a room for her to stay, and they refused her, even when it was mentioned to the concierge that it was for Daisy. She is flustered as she tells her husband that the concierge said that the Waldorf doesn't cater to unaccompanied ladies, no matter who they are. Her husband suggests that she stay with her friend Anne Morgan, who is J. P. Morgan's youngest daughter, but she's in Europe. Everybody else is in Newport. Her husband's friend suggests for him to take Daisy, and they both can stay at the Waldorf. Her husband said he just arrived in Newport the evening before, and has no intention of staying at the Waldorf. Daisy is at this point flustered since she tells her husband he could stay at the Union Club, or the Princeton Club, and enjoy all of the comforts of his own home. That's when Daisy says:
"Women should have a club of their own. Just like the men do. A place where we can stay
overnight, have parcels delivered, write letters, make telephone calls, enjoy dinner...that's
exactly what we need. How clever of you to suggest it.
...We're going to establish a women's club. A club for women, but run in the same manner
as the men's club.
That was the impetus for what the book is centered on, but it's quite an amazing story of how it came to be which Daisy thought they would need at least one-hundred members to host various speakers of interest, concerts, readings, talks on current events, a place where women could stay overnight, be themselves, hold luncheons among ourselves, focus on issues that matter to women.
Even with the idea, and land purchased. It took two years for the first phase to break ground, and first with the help from Daisy's husband and, J. P. Morgan secured funds to purchase the property before construction would begin. With Daisy as its President, and Anne Morgan as Treasurer, they hired the famous architect Stanford White to design such an ambitious project. The club needed his artistry, and reputation. Stanford White design principles embodied the, "American Renaissance." They would have a track for exercise, an indoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and got an actress, who was a factual person, named Elsie, who was the first female interior decorator who was prior to this had shown a natural talent in decorating her home. She made sure that she furnished this club with a flair of grandeur. She bought the finest furnishings, traveling to Europe buying items that she even purchased from Versailles. This job turned out to make her the first interior designer which she excelled at. Prior to Elsie decorating the Colony Club, it was left to the architect to do the interior decorating. Elsie de Wolfe spared no expense to furnish it by traveling to Europe to buy antique furniture. She made it sound so grand, and opulent transforming the place full of light and color.
March 1904, Manhattan
Nora Bromley wanted to be an architect. She attended the New York School of Applied Design for Women. Nora was one of the poorer students, just managing to pay tuition with money her father had left just for this purpose. Money that should have gone to her brother, Jimmy. Nora worked hard, and her participation in a contest won first prize which was fifty dollars. Her professor said that the contest that judged each student's entry would consist of a panel of esteemed architects. Nora had been working on entering her idea of a dream hospital for tuberculosis patients. Nora had been going to Brooklyn from the cold room she shared with two other girls, to visit what was left of her family every Sunday where her sister Louise took what money Nora earned tutoring. With her father, and brother Jimmy deceased it was up to her to save enough money for her mother and younger sister to get their own apartment. She was giving her sister Louise every cent who resented Nora. When the contest was judged Nora won first prize with her hospital, and was hired by Stanford White to work as an assistant which she was placed in the drafting room. The men were horrible to her since she was the only female. They sabotaged her work, stealing her implements. She had to put up with this cruel treatment in order to fulfill her dream of becoming an architect. Once Stanford White accepted the position to design the Colony Club, he assigned Nora to work there which she took as a demotion from reaching her goal. She was to assist Elsie by what she didn't feel was making use of her talent to design buildings as an architect. She had an office on sight which she was better at her care and careful creating watercolors of what Elsie had bought, and were accurate visually depicting Elsie's ideas of how each area would look when this massive project was completed. Nora had met a man at the architecture firm who encouraged her to look at what she thought was demeaning as an opportunity to see the process of each phase of construction. It was an opportunity to be able to gain valuable experience, which Nora did with reluctance.
This was incredibly fascinating and as a lover of historical fiction it was a novel that I enjoyed. I learned so much which is a reason that I read. I knew I would love this, and Shelley Noble included an enlightening Author's Note with a list of books that she recommends for further research which I will be sure to read, since I thought she made this an amazing reading experience. You might not think that a book of historical fiction that focuses on the building of the Colony Club would be as compelling, but this absolutely was enjoyable throughout. The amazing job she did by her character development made me keep turning the pages. There's much more to this than I have included. It took real factual people, and a building that is true. I could imagine how beautiful this real place was and would love to see it sometime. This was excellent and deserves to reach as wide of an audience as possible. I can't wait to read what she writes next. Highly recommended!
Publication Date; October 1, 2024! Available now!
Thank you to Net Galley, Shelley Noble and William Morrow-William Morrow Paperbacks for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#TheColonyClub #ShelleyNoble #WilliamMorrowWilliamMorrowPaperbacks #NetGalley
BY: SHELLEY NOBLE
About 4,5 Stars!
"THE COLONY CLUB," by Shelley Noble, is a historical novel, which includes the most factual lives of people in the genre that I've encountered involved in one novel. They were relevant to have been involved in the creation of the spectacular, factual place, named the Colony Club which was the first ever all women's clubhouse to have been created in history. It was an innovative project whose inception, and the execution was to have involved all women. Up to that time, only men had the perks of a grand meeting place, to enjoy the comforts of home where they could gather in one place in New York City, society exclusive to men only. The creation of the Colony Club, was a new idea to have been planned to give women the same extraordinary type of place to gather, offering amenities where women could enjoy the same benefits that existed for men only. This was a significant step towards women's equality, but this was remarkable in how it was established to surprise me the grandeur of how this historic first class all women's clubhouse turned out to be a place so magnificent. It offered so much it seemed unbelievable in terms of what is described that was progressive in which spared no expense. It started out as a place where society women could provide rooms for a place to stay overnight, and could gather to meet for socialites whose interests were to help those less fortunate in society. The story of the process that features how the Colony Club was built, were mostly featured by factual people makes this a terrific reading choice. I think in this novel which HF is a favorite genre of mine, featured the most factual people in one narrative that I've ever encountered. To think that a germ of an idea from one woman is what transpired to become a historically fact based institution
that was a staggering clubhouse of such comfort planned by women is a story of epic proportions.
The novel starts out in Washington D.C. on April 18, 1963, with Daisy Harriman, being interviewed by a journalist named Meg, who she's told by the woman whose idea for this women's first of it's kind clubhouse, among many achievements features Daisy at ninety-two years old. Daisy was asked what it feels like to be the first-ever recipient of President Kennedy's, Citation of Merit Award? Daisy's real full name was Florence Jaffray Hurst Harriman, who is the only one left, of her small family. It leads to her telling this journalist who the story is told by placing Daisy in the present day in 1902, at the beginning of the Twentieth Century. After being unable to get a room at the Waldorf, because she was unaccompanied by her husband, came up with the idea of having the first ever women's clubhouse built called, "The Colony Club." Most of this novel is about how much thought, money, time, and work went into making it sound like a truly modern marvel. It was created during the first decade of the twentieth century. It is described throughout the narrative in fascinating detail to be a truly magnificent accomplishment, not only for the the first decade of it's era, when it was built, but even by today's standards it would be impressive. The book elaborates through the likable characters, who worked to make the idea become a reality which I can still visualize due to the terrific, well written descriptions that resulted in a place for women, to gather and help make changes for those who were poor. To advocate for them for improving their lives which was enduring lives of hardship. That many society women cared to make life improvements for those who were subjected to poor standards make this historical fiction novel intriguing. Both the fancy institution, The Colony Club, and Daisy are actually based on the factual historic record. There was The Princeton Club for men to meet, but nothing of it's kind that existed for women at that time period. The young woman named Meg who is meeting with Daisy, is impressed with all of her accomplishments, such as: Social reformer, union organizer, politician and diplomat, but the focus is how much effort went into the creation of the Colony Club. Meg, while interviewing Daisy remarks how Daisy was able to accomplish so much, before the women in that era had been finally able to be able to vote. Daisy had a supportive husband, and in the beginning as she is interviewed, her husband who had been a background character was mentioned to have not lived to see Daisy receive her: Citation of Merit for Distinguished Service to Florence Jaffray Hurst Harriman. She mentions that her daughter didn't live to see Daisy receive her award, either. I didn't see her daughter woven into this uplifting, heartwarming historical fiction that I'm so grateful to have read. My enjoyment is owed to how Shelley Noble managed to bring the characters to a vivid, breathing, three dimensional life. That aspect really helped me to remain immersed into such a beautifully, spellbinding story, that captivated my interest. Since the main focus is based on the first women's clubhouse designed by an architectural icon, who was based on a factual person that worked on it whose talent created an opulent, and glorious building of the first its kind that enlightened me was rewarding to learn. I am happy if I learn something new, which is fascinating how the author's gifted way she presented this part of history helped me to enjoy this as much as I did. It was masterfully written by an author whose talent is evident by how she wrote so well, that made this unputdownable. It takes skill to make the building that has the historic significance of being the first of its kind so compelling. It had its appeal with being the first of many other facets, as well.
The journalist named Meg, is astonished that Daisy didn't choose to be content with donating to various causes from the comfort of her home as a young society matron living comfortably in New York City. Instead, Daisy chose to take an active role by protesting in the streets regarding the inequities of society. She risked her reputation, and her physical safety to inaugurate change.
The novel starts in August, 1902, in Newport, Rhode Island, which I have seen the mansions where the rich flock to in the Summer months, and it is especially breathtaking to see the grandeur of the estates even today. In the novel it begins where Daisy tells her husband since their townhouse in New York City, is being renovated, and she needs to go back down to the city for a day or two to run some errands that she didn't have time to do before arriving in Newport. She is amazed when she had Miss Gleason call the Waldorf to reserve a room for her to stay, and they refused her, even when it was mentioned to the concierge that it was for Daisy. She is flustered as she tells her husband that the concierge said that the Waldorf doesn't cater to unaccompanied ladies, no matter who they are. Her husband suggests that she stay with her friend Anne Morgan, who is J. P. Morgan's youngest daughter, but she's in Europe. Everybody else is in Newport. Her husband's friend suggests for him to take Daisy, and they both can stay at the Waldorf. Her husband said he just arrived in Newport the evening before, and has no intention of staying at the Waldorf. Daisy is at this point flustered since she tells her husband he could stay at the Union Club, or the Princeton Club, and enjoy all of the comforts of his own home. That's when Daisy says:
"Women should have a club of their own. Just like the men do. A place where we can stay
overnight, have parcels delivered, write letters, make telephone calls, enjoy dinner...that's
exactly what we need. How clever of you to suggest it.
...We're going to establish a women's club. A club for women, but run in the same manner
as the men's club.
That was the impetus for what the book is centered on, but it's quite an amazing story of how it came to be which Daisy thought they would need at least one-hundred members to host various speakers of interest, concerts, readings, talks on current events, a place where women could stay overnight, be themselves, hold luncheons among ourselves, focus on issues that matter to women.
Even with the idea, and land purchased. It took two years for the first phase to break ground, and first with the help from Daisy's husband and, J. P. Morgan secured funds to purchase the property before construction would begin. With Daisy as its President, and Anne Morgan as Treasurer, they hired the famous architect Stanford White to design such an ambitious project. The club needed his artistry, and reputation. Stanford White design principles embodied the, "American Renaissance." They would have a track for exercise, an indoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and got an actress, who was a factual person, named Elsie, who was the first female interior decorator who was prior to this had shown a natural talent in decorating her home. She made sure that she furnished this club with a flair of grandeur. She bought the finest furnishings, traveling to Europe buying items that she even purchased from Versailles. This job turned out to make her the first interior designer which she excelled at. Prior to Elsie decorating the Colony Club, it was left to the architect to do the interior decorating. Elsie de Wolfe spared no expense to furnish it by traveling to Europe to buy antique furniture. She made it sound so grand, and opulent transforming the place full of light and color.
March 1904, Manhattan
Nora Bromley wanted to be an architect. She attended the New York School of Applied Design for Women. Nora was one of the poorer students, just managing to pay tuition with money her father had left just for this purpose. Money that should have gone to her brother, Jimmy. Nora worked hard, and her participation in a contest won first prize which was fifty dollars. Her professor said that the contest that judged each student's entry would consist of a panel of esteemed architects. Nora had been working on entering her idea of a dream hospital for tuberculosis patients. Nora had been going to Brooklyn from the cold room she shared with two other girls, to visit what was left of her family every Sunday where her sister Louise took what money Nora earned tutoring. With her father, and brother Jimmy deceased it was up to her to save enough money for her mother and younger sister to get their own apartment. She was giving her sister Louise every cent who resented Nora. When the contest was judged Nora won first prize with her hospital, and was hired by Stanford White to work as an assistant which she was placed in the drafting room. The men were horrible to her since she was the only female. They sabotaged her work, stealing her implements. She had to put up with this cruel treatment in order to fulfill her dream of becoming an architect. Once Stanford White accepted the position to design the Colony Club, he assigned Nora to work there which she took as a demotion from reaching her goal. She was to assist Elsie by what she didn't feel was making use of her talent to design buildings as an architect. She had an office on sight which she was better at her care and careful creating watercolors of what Elsie had bought, and were accurate visually depicting Elsie's ideas of how each area would look when this massive project was completed. Nora had met a man at the architecture firm who encouraged her to look at what she thought was demeaning as an opportunity to see the process of each phase of construction. It was an opportunity to be able to gain valuable experience, which Nora did with reluctance.
This was incredibly fascinating and as a lover of historical fiction it was a novel that I enjoyed. I learned so much which is a reason that I read. I knew I would love this, and Shelley Noble included an enlightening Author's Note with a list of books that she recommends for further research which I will be sure to read, since I thought she made this an amazing reading experience. You might not think that a book of historical fiction that focuses on the building of the Colony Club would be as compelling, but this absolutely was enjoyable throughout. The amazing job she did by her character development made me keep turning the pages. There's much more to this than I have included. It took real factual people, and a building that is true. I could imagine how beautiful this real place was and would love to see it sometime. This was excellent and deserves to reach as wide of an audience as possible. I can't wait to read what she writes next. Highly recommended!
Publication Date; October 1, 2024! Available now!
Thank you to Net Galley, Shelley Noble and William Morrow-William Morrow Paperbacks for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#TheColonyClub #ShelleyNoble #WilliamMorrowWilliamMorrowPaperbacks #NetGalley
January 10, 2025
A look at social activist of the Gilded Age, Daisy Harriman, as she founds a club for women and leads the construction of a club house.
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