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The Magnolia Palace
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Best Historical Fiction (2022)Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Lions of Fifth Avenue, returns with a tantalizing novel about the secrets, betrayal, and murder within one of New York City’s most impressive Gilded Age mansions.
Eight months since losing her mother in the Spanish flu outbreak of 1919, twenty-one-year-old Lillian Carter’s life has completely fallen apart. For the past six years, under the moniker Angelica, Lillian was one of the most sought-after artists’ models in New York City, with statues based on her figure gracing landmarks from the Plaza Hotel to the Brooklyn Bridge. But with her mother gone, a grieving Lillian is rudderless and desperate—the work has dried up and a looming scandal has left her entirely without a safe haven. So when she stumbles upon an employment opportunity at the Frick mansion—a building that, ironically, bears her own visage—Lillian jumps at the chance. But the longer she works as a private secretary to the imperious and demanding Helen Frick, the daughter and heiress of industrialist and art patron Henry Clay Frick, the more deeply her life gets intertwined with that of the family—pulling her into a tangled web of romantic trysts, stolen jewels, and family drama that runs so deep, the stakes just may be life or death.
Nearly fifty years later, mod English model Veronica Weber has her own chance to make her career—and with it, earn the money she needs to support her family back home—within the walls of the former Frick residence, now converted into one of New York City’s most impressive museums. But when she—along with a charming intern/budding art curator named Joshua—is dismissed from the Vogue shoot taking place at the Frick Collection, she chances upon a series of hidden messages in the museum: messages that will lead her and Joshua on a hunt that could not only solve Veronica’s financial woes, but could finally reveal the truth behind a decades-old murder in the infamous Frick family.
Eight months since losing her mother in the Spanish flu outbreak of 1919, twenty-one-year-old Lillian Carter’s life has completely fallen apart. For the past six years, under the moniker Angelica, Lillian was one of the most sought-after artists’ models in New York City, with statues based on her figure gracing landmarks from the Plaza Hotel to the Brooklyn Bridge. But with her mother gone, a grieving Lillian is rudderless and desperate—the work has dried up and a looming scandal has left her entirely without a safe haven. So when she stumbles upon an employment opportunity at the Frick mansion—a building that, ironically, bears her own visage—Lillian jumps at the chance. But the longer she works as a private secretary to the imperious and demanding Helen Frick, the daughter and heiress of industrialist and art patron Henry Clay Frick, the more deeply her life gets intertwined with that of the family—pulling her into a tangled web of romantic trysts, stolen jewels, and family drama that runs so deep, the stakes just may be life or death.
Nearly fifty years later, mod English model Veronica Weber has her own chance to make her career—and with it, earn the money she needs to support her family back home—within the walls of the former Frick residence, now converted into one of New York City’s most impressive museums. But when she—along with a charming intern/budding art curator named Joshua—is dismissed from the Vogue shoot taking place at the Frick Collection, she chances upon a series of hidden messages in the museum: messages that will lead her and Joshua on a hunt that could not only solve Veronica’s financial woes, but could finally reveal the truth behind a decades-old murder in the infamous Frick family.
340 pages, Hardcover
First published January 25, 2022
About the author
Fiona Davis
13 books7,006 followersFiona Davis is the New York Times bestselling author of several historical fiction novels set in iconic New York City buildings, including The Spectacular, The Magnolia Palace, The Address, and The Lions of Fifth Avenue, which was a Good Morning America book club pick. Her novels have been chosen as “One Book, One Community” reads and her articles have appeared in publications like The Wall Street Journal and O the Oprah magazine.
She first came to New York as an actress, but fell in love with writing after getting a master's degree at Columbia Journalism School. Her books have been translated into over twenty languages and she's based in New York City.
She first came to New York as an actress, but fell in love with writing after getting a master's degree at Columbia Journalism School. Her books have been translated into over twenty languages and she's based in New York City.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,944 reviews
December 18, 2022
Happy Publication Day 💕1/25/2022💕
Fiona Davis has captured some of the most historic figures in this historical fiction with tantalizing betrayals, secrets and murder in an impressive Gilded Age Mansion in New York City in 1919. Henry Clay Frick launched the Frick Collection in the Frick Art Reference Library and still considered "one of the most hated men in America", which led to an attempted assassination on him. The Frick Coke Company fueled the Pennsylvania's Steel Mills, which entitled Him to walk through some of the the richest doors on NY's Fifth Avenue Elite making room for his debut and home Magnolia Palace.
"The rich think they're are protected, that they have magical powers, when in fact they're only mortals, like the rest of us......."
With their famous sculpts and decor adorning their walls holds a figure in the pediment above the door of the Frick's Collection and this is where the story begins. Posing for sculptors etched into history forever, was a model "Angelica" at 21 years old her life falls apart when her landlord makes advances on her to help her cover her rent. She proudly declines, but it haunts her after the landlord murders his wife and she is wanted for questioning. Going in hiding and reclaiming her real name, Lillian, she finds a job as the head secretary of Henry Clay's head strong daughter Helen Clay Frick. This job proves to be more scandals, a tangled web of romance, stolen jewels and murder.
Local newspapers on display "The star witness in the West Side murder has disappeared! Angelica, the most beautiful woman in the world." Hiding among the wealthiest people in NY Royalty and they are clueless or are they?
Fast forward 1960's... during a snowstorm with the power out, Vogue model Veronica is locked in the Frick's museum with Joshua Lawrence, a museum archivist. Curious about the decades old murder, they uncover hidden messages in the walls much like a scavenger hunt revealing more than expected, but they are not alone in the dark.....
I was so caught up in this Old Hollywood feel, never before thinking about sculptures revealing their own legacy of people and their past. This capture by the author is so rich in history offering a magnetic draw to the past without disrupting their true events. The research will leave you hunting for more information on this vile bunch. An absolute amazing caper through their world!
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group Dutton for this historical fiction in exchange for my honest review!
Fiona Davis has captured some of the most historic figures in this historical fiction with tantalizing betrayals, secrets and murder in an impressive Gilded Age Mansion in New York City in 1919. Henry Clay Frick launched the Frick Collection in the Frick Art Reference Library and still considered "one of the most hated men in America", which led to an attempted assassination on him. The Frick Coke Company fueled the Pennsylvania's Steel Mills, which entitled Him to walk through some of the the richest doors on NY's Fifth Avenue Elite making room for his debut and home Magnolia Palace.
"The rich think they're are protected, that they have magical powers, when in fact they're only mortals, like the rest of us......."
With their famous sculpts and decor adorning their walls holds a figure in the pediment above the door of the Frick's Collection and this is where the story begins. Posing for sculptors etched into history forever, was a model "Angelica" at 21 years old her life falls apart when her landlord makes advances on her to help her cover her rent. She proudly declines, but it haunts her after the landlord murders his wife and she is wanted for questioning. Going in hiding and reclaiming her real name, Lillian, she finds a job as the head secretary of Henry Clay's head strong daughter Helen Clay Frick. This job proves to be more scandals, a tangled web of romance, stolen jewels and murder.
Local newspapers on display "The star witness in the West Side murder has disappeared! Angelica, the most beautiful woman in the world." Hiding among the wealthiest people in NY Royalty and they are clueless or are they?
Fast forward 1960's... during a snowstorm with the power out, Vogue model Veronica is locked in the Frick's museum with Joshua Lawrence, a museum archivist. Curious about the decades old murder, they uncover hidden messages in the walls much like a scavenger hunt revealing more than expected, but they are not alone in the dark.....
I was so caught up in this Old Hollywood feel, never before thinking about sculptures revealing their own legacy of people and their past. This capture by the author is so rich in history offering a magnetic draw to the past without disrupting their true events. The research will leave you hunting for more information on this vile bunch. An absolute amazing caper through their world!
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group Dutton for this historical fiction in exchange for my honest review!
November 2, 2021
"Some people are busy working on their pose instead of their purpose." (Saji Ijiyemi)
The Magnolia Palace is a remarkable endeavor by the talented Fiona Davis. Davis walks us across an unexpected bridge of thought that spans from 1919 after the Great War and its impact on society to the Mod Years of the 1960's and beyond. It serves as a split screen depicting those who held on covetously to the past and those who blindly chased the future.
Lillian Carter finds herself dialing for life and for survival in the expanse of New York City in 1919. She and her mother, Kitty, make the rounds on the 67th Street Studio District searching for modeling jobs for Lillian. Lillian has finally struck gold. Several artists have been taken with her Grecian attributes of classic beauty. With mother monitoring nearby, Lillian poses for breathtaking statues during the Beaux Arts period in New York City. Her image in The Three Graces stands in the entrance of the Hotel Astor.
But soon Kitty is taken too soon during the outbreak of the Spanish Flu and Lillian, known professionally as Angelica, is on her own with just pocket change after the funeral. Her dream is to be in films in Hollywood. And making that into reality is going to be a challenge. Her landlord proposes a way out with the rent. And to add insult to injury, Lillian is a suspect when his wife's murder is revealed. Out the window, Lillian, and into the streets.......
And here's where Fate steps in and Lillian is mistaken for someone else applying for a private secretary position at the Frick Mansion. She's hired on the spot and Hollywood could not have developed a better stage presence than the one that Lillian fakes. She now works for Miss Helen, the daughter of the famous Henry Clay Frick, steel magnate and art collector.
Fiona Davis does a masterful job of presenting daily life within the Frick domain....like New York royalty. Miss Helen is a very cantankerous and difficult woman to please, but Lillian manages to reveal her knowledge of art without revealing her identity who's wanted by the police. We'll follow the storyline of these two women who will face a tragedy in the making.
Fastforward to 1966 with the now Frick Museum allowing a photo shoot with a bevy of models to take place within its walls. Veronica Weber is originally from London trying to make advances in her modeling career. Fate pays her a visit as well when she is locked inside the museum after the others have left. A fierce snowstorm hits the city and the power goes out. Veronica comes across Joshua Lawrence, museum archivist, down an unlit hallway. These two are on the edge of an adventure big and bold.
The Magnolia Palace is a wonderful read. There's constant action and the characters are loosely based on real ones. My only concern was the ending in which everything is wrapped tidily with no loose strings. But it is the Author's Note that will grab you in the last pages. Davis gives us some excellent background information on the Frick Family and their Mansion/Museum. Ol' Miss Helen will be elbowing her way into this most satisfying read.
I received a copy of this novel through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Penguin Random House and to the talented Fiona Davis for the opportunity.
The Magnolia Palace is a remarkable endeavor by the talented Fiona Davis. Davis walks us across an unexpected bridge of thought that spans from 1919 after the Great War and its impact on society to the Mod Years of the 1960's and beyond. It serves as a split screen depicting those who held on covetously to the past and those who blindly chased the future.
Lillian Carter finds herself dialing for life and for survival in the expanse of New York City in 1919. She and her mother, Kitty, make the rounds on the 67th Street Studio District searching for modeling jobs for Lillian. Lillian has finally struck gold. Several artists have been taken with her Grecian attributes of classic beauty. With mother monitoring nearby, Lillian poses for breathtaking statues during the Beaux Arts period in New York City. Her image in The Three Graces stands in the entrance of the Hotel Astor.
But soon Kitty is taken too soon during the outbreak of the Spanish Flu and Lillian, known professionally as Angelica, is on her own with just pocket change after the funeral. Her dream is to be in films in Hollywood. And making that into reality is going to be a challenge. Her landlord proposes a way out with the rent. And to add insult to injury, Lillian is a suspect when his wife's murder is revealed. Out the window, Lillian, and into the streets.......
And here's where Fate steps in and Lillian is mistaken for someone else applying for a private secretary position at the Frick Mansion. She's hired on the spot and Hollywood could not have developed a better stage presence than the one that Lillian fakes. She now works for Miss Helen, the daughter of the famous Henry Clay Frick, steel magnate and art collector.
Fiona Davis does a masterful job of presenting daily life within the Frick domain....like New York royalty. Miss Helen is a very cantankerous and difficult woman to please, but Lillian manages to reveal her knowledge of art without revealing her identity who's wanted by the police. We'll follow the storyline of these two women who will face a tragedy in the making.
Fastforward to 1966 with the now Frick Museum allowing a photo shoot with a bevy of models to take place within its walls. Veronica Weber is originally from London trying to make advances in her modeling career. Fate pays her a visit as well when she is locked inside the museum after the others have left. A fierce snowstorm hits the city and the power goes out. Veronica comes across Joshua Lawrence, museum archivist, down an unlit hallway. These two are on the edge of an adventure big and bold.
The Magnolia Palace is a wonderful read. There's constant action and the characters are loosely based on real ones. My only concern was the ending in which everything is wrapped tidily with no loose strings. But it is the Author's Note that will grab you in the last pages. Davis gives us some excellent background information on the Frick Family and their Mansion/Museum. Ol' Miss Helen will be elbowing her way into this most satisfying read.
I received a copy of this novel through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Penguin Random House and to the talented Fiona Davis for the opportunity.
April 29, 2022
3 Stars
This book isn't a normal draw for me; however, I wasn't too enthusiastic about any of the other Book of the Month options for this month and my friend (with whom I coordinate our BOTM choices) was really interested in this one...also, since my reading tastes have changed so much over the last few years, I thought I would give this one a go as a litmus test of sorts.
And I was surprised I liked it as much as I did. To be clear: I didn't love it. I thought the 1966 story line was boring AF and I didn't care for some of the overly forced narratives. It was also VERY slow.
However, I really enjoyed the 1919 story line and Lillian's life with the Frick family. I also actually enjoyed the parts about art - a subject I usually have ZERO interest in.
This book isn't a normal draw for me; however, I wasn't too enthusiastic about any of the other Book of the Month options for this month and my friend (with whom I coordinate our BOTM choices) was really interested in this one...also, since my reading tastes have changed so much over the last few years, I thought I would give this one a go as a litmus test of sorts.
And I was surprised I liked it as much as I did. To be clear: I didn't love it. I thought the 1966 story line was boring AF and I didn't care for some of the overly forced narratives. It was also VERY slow.
However, I really enjoyed the 1919 story line and Lillian's life with the Frick family. I also actually enjoyed the parts about art - a subject I usually have ZERO interest in.
January 9, 2022
I savor every glorious new Fiona Davis novel and The Magnolia Palace has it all--two intriguing heroines, two fabulous time periods to get swept up in and a delicious mystery that keeps you on tenterhooks. I loved every minute of it!
July 13, 2022
Author Fiona Davis chooses interesting buildings as structure or backdrop to her historical fiction novels. In “The Magnolia Palace”, she selects the Frick mansion in NYC. Her story alternates between 1919 and 1966 and it involves mystery, intrigue, and murder!
She begins her story with the 1919 thread. A famous sculpture model is wanted for questioning in the murder of her landlord’s wife. Lillian Carter, aka Angelica, has posed for most of the landmark sculptures in NYC. After her mother (who is her manager) dies from the Spanish flu, Lillian is adrift at the “old” age of 21. She was protected by her mother and worries about supporting herself as she is no longer the muse for artists now that she’s not in her teens. Once she is listed as a person of interest in the murder of her landlord’s wife, she goes on the lam, and inadvertently finds herself interviewing for a position as the personal secretary to Helen Frick. Through Lillian, now aka Miss Lilly, we learn of the Frick mansion and all the art and secrets it holds. At the time, Henry Clay Frick intended to create a museum out of his impressive art collection. Davis mentions many of the more notable art works in this novel, also providing interesting information on the pieces.
Veronica Weber is a British model in the 1966 thread. She is a twin and her sister suffers from disabilities. She travels to the USA for a Vogue photoshoot at the Frick. A major snowstorm hits and she inadvertently finds herself locked in the Frick mansion, which is now a museum known for its vast art collection. Through her storyline we learn even more about the mansion and secrets it holds.
Davis gives light to those “unseen” support staff and servants. The organ player enlightens us on the inner workings of the organ that he was required to play for Mr. Frick. The private secretaries to Helen and Mrs. Frick provide the background to the daily activities of the ultra-wealthy of the time. A part time archivist supplies the importance of historical documents.
I appreciated Davis’s spotlight on the two women, on how difficult it is for women to survive in New York. She gave prominence to the building itself. This massive home which was built for the purpose of donating it as a museum to NYC. The book is like a docent to the museum.
Davis deftly creates a thriller cadence with the two timelines. In 1919, after Henry Frick dies, a family heirloom, a pink diamond, goes missing. The circumstance of the theft allows for many suspects. And we have that murder mystery.
In her Author’s Note, Davis separates her imagined fiction from the nonfiction. I am a huge fan of Author’s Notes in historical fiction. We learn the basic facts of history, in a creative way. There was a “super” model named Audrey Munson in the early 1900’s. It is her figure that was the muse for all the statues mentioned in this story and hundreds of others.
The story started slow for me. Once the pacing changed and it entered the thriller genre, it was a more engaging and fast read, although it felt like a young adult caper. I read this for book club. I would not have continued if not for that. Our club is not noted for interest in literature, and even these ladies were disappointed. We all felt it was not her best work.
She begins her story with the 1919 thread. A famous sculpture model is wanted for questioning in the murder of her landlord’s wife. Lillian Carter, aka Angelica, has posed for most of the landmark sculptures in NYC. After her mother (who is her manager) dies from the Spanish flu, Lillian is adrift at the “old” age of 21. She was protected by her mother and worries about supporting herself as she is no longer the muse for artists now that she’s not in her teens. Once she is listed as a person of interest in the murder of her landlord’s wife, she goes on the lam, and inadvertently finds herself interviewing for a position as the personal secretary to Helen Frick. Through Lillian, now aka Miss Lilly, we learn of the Frick mansion and all the art and secrets it holds. At the time, Henry Clay Frick intended to create a museum out of his impressive art collection. Davis mentions many of the more notable art works in this novel, also providing interesting information on the pieces.
Veronica Weber is a British model in the 1966 thread. She is a twin and her sister suffers from disabilities. She travels to the USA for a Vogue photoshoot at the Frick. A major snowstorm hits and she inadvertently finds herself locked in the Frick mansion, which is now a museum known for its vast art collection. Through her storyline we learn even more about the mansion and secrets it holds.
Davis gives light to those “unseen” support staff and servants. The organ player enlightens us on the inner workings of the organ that he was required to play for Mr. Frick. The private secretaries to Helen and Mrs. Frick provide the background to the daily activities of the ultra-wealthy of the time. A part time archivist supplies the importance of historical documents.
I appreciated Davis’s spotlight on the two women, on how difficult it is for women to survive in New York. She gave prominence to the building itself. This massive home which was built for the purpose of donating it as a museum to NYC. The book is like a docent to the museum.
Davis deftly creates a thriller cadence with the two timelines. In 1919, after Henry Frick dies, a family heirloom, a pink diamond, goes missing. The circumstance of the theft allows for many suspects. And we have that murder mystery.
In her Author’s Note, Davis separates her imagined fiction from the nonfiction. I am a huge fan of Author’s Notes in historical fiction. We learn the basic facts of history, in a creative way. There was a “super” model named Audrey Munson in the early 1900’s. It is her figure that was the muse for all the statues mentioned in this story and hundreds of others.
The story started slow for me. Once the pacing changed and it entered the thriller genre, it was a more engaging and fast read, although it felt like a young adult caper. I read this for book club. I would not have continued if not for that. Our club is not noted for interest in literature, and even these ladies were disappointed. We all felt it was not her best work.
February 20, 2022
My first Fiona Davis book! It is a very rare day when I pick up HF. However, this one has been calling my name. I can't even begin to explain how much I loved this author's writing. It was beautiful.
I was immediately drawn to the book because ...honestly...the cover. Yet also I am obessed with art...and a story about the Frick family was something I had to get ahold of.
The alternating timelines between 1919 and 1966 were each so enjoyable. I loved how each managed to center themselves around the Frick mansion. I literally felt transported back in time. How it all came together at the end was absolute perfection.
I loved every minute of this book- however the author's note sealed the deal. I was shocked to discover how many of the details were really part of the Frick family history. This had me running to my computer to research it even more.
Loved, loved, loved it! I already ran out and bought The Lions of Fifth Avenue and The Dollhouse. I can't wait to read more by this author. Do you have a favorite by her? Do tell...
I was immediately drawn to the book because ...honestly...the cover. Yet also I am obessed with art...and a story about the Frick family was something I had to get ahold of.
The alternating timelines between 1919 and 1966 were each so enjoyable. I loved how each managed to center themselves around the Frick mansion. I literally felt transported back in time. How it all came together at the end was absolute perfection.
I loved every minute of this book- however the author's note sealed the deal. I was shocked to discover how many of the details were really part of the Frick family history. This had me running to my computer to research it even more.
Loved, loved, loved it! I already ran out and bought The Lions of Fifth Avenue and The Dollhouse. I can't wait to read more by this author. Do you have a favorite by her? Do tell...
Shelved as 'dnf'
April 1, 2022I read to page 100, and can’t read further. Another disappointing BOTM choice.
April 24, 2022
The Magnolia Palace is a perfectly fine read. Most of the characters and relationships felt rather one dimensional so I never got too into the story. The romance subplots are a bit underwhelming as well as the mystery over the stolen diamond and the murder. Really the standout aspects of this book is the art featured in the Frick collection and Lillian and Helen’s dynamic.
I know this author always features two timelines in her books but it felt very gimmicky here. The second timeline serves no purpose up until the very end when the mystery is solved. Other than that it was pointless and just ate up pages. Overall, The Magnolia Palace is an acceptable read but ultimately isn’t anything amazing or particularly engrossing. I read this book with mild interest and my feelings toward it never progressed from there.
I know this author always features two timelines in her books but it felt very gimmicky here. The second timeline serves no purpose up until the very end when the mystery is solved. Other than that it was pointless and just ate up pages. Overall, The Magnolia Palace is an acceptable read but ultimately isn’t anything amazing or particularly engrossing. I read this book with mild interest and my feelings toward it never progressed from there.
March 25, 2022
Once more, I thought I had uploaded this review...and hadn't. My bad and my apologies. I devoured The Magnolia Palace the week it was published, and was absolutely fascinated both by the story and the history. Fiona Davis walks the historical fiction tightrope with grace and elan, in this case bringing the Frick family to life, with all their demons and flaws, as well as the muse behind so many of Manhattan's most iconic statues. The mystery moves back and forth between 1919 and 1966, and the parallels are deft and surprising. And the three women at the heart of the tale, models from two different eras and Helen Frick, are brought to life with precision and care. I loved the novel both as a window into the world of the wealthiest New Yorkers a century ago, and as a mystery about the fortunes (pun intended) of the trio.
January 21, 2024
In 1919, after eight months Lillian Carter’s still grieving and her mother died during the Spanish flu epidemic. Lilly owes her landlord Mr. Watkins rent money, she's been unable to work, and when his wife is found murdered, and the police consider her a suspect? Supervised by her mother Kitty, Lillian started working as an artists muse when she was fifteen and many of her statues are on public display around New York City.
Her mother wanted her daughter’s identity to remain a secret, Lillian uses a stage name and everyone in the art world knows her as Angelica. She flees her apartment, the opportunity to become Helen Frick’s secretary lands in her lap, and it gives Lilly a place to stay and time to work out what she’s doing to do? One of her statues is located at the front of the Frick mansion, no one recognizes her, and Miss. Helen’s a rather demanding person, eccentric, and Lilly can’t wait to leave.
Henry Clay Frick, made a fortune from producing steel, his grand home is a showcase for his huge and expensive art collection. Behind the expensive facade, there’s a lot of tension in the house, his wife locks herself away in her room, his two remaining children don’t get along, he desperately wants Helen to marry, and he finds her a suitor.
The Magnolia Palace, has a dual timeline, both characters are models and find themselves in the Frick mansion and a half a century apart.
In 1966, Veronica Weber’s in New York, doing a fashion shoot for Vogue and at the Frick museum, she feels very out of her depth and she’s only done smaller modelling jobs in the past. Veronica's worried about leaving her mum and sister Polly behind in England, and she wants to make enough money to take care of Polly who has special needs. Veronica finds herself locked inside the Frick museum, the power has gone out and New York’s been hit by a snow storm. College intern and budding art curator Joshua Lawrence has also been locked inside with Veronica and to pass the time they start a scavenger hunt. Looking for clues about the Frick family and they try to solve the mystery of what happened to the rare and expensive Magnolia diamond, it went missing in 1919 and hasn't been seen since.
The Magnolia Palace is a historical fiction story about the wealthy Frick family, it highlights the tension between the siblings, Helen and her mother’s odd behavior and Mr. Frick’s obsession with buying and collecting art. Based on true facts and you do wonder if Henry Frick felt any guilt about the flooding in Johnstown, Pennsylvania when a dam collapsed in 1889 and he was one of the investors. Fiona Davis has written another fascinating dual time masterpiece, thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Publishing for my copy in exchange for an honest review and five big stars from me.
Her mother wanted her daughter’s identity to remain a secret, Lillian uses a stage name and everyone in the art world knows her as Angelica. She flees her apartment, the opportunity to become Helen Frick’s secretary lands in her lap, and it gives Lilly a place to stay and time to work out what she’s doing to do? One of her statues is located at the front of the Frick mansion, no one recognizes her, and Miss. Helen’s a rather demanding person, eccentric, and Lilly can’t wait to leave.
Henry Clay Frick, made a fortune from producing steel, his grand home is a showcase for his huge and expensive art collection. Behind the expensive facade, there’s a lot of tension in the house, his wife locks herself away in her room, his two remaining children don’t get along, he desperately wants Helen to marry, and he finds her a suitor.
The Magnolia Palace, has a dual timeline, both characters are models and find themselves in the Frick mansion and a half a century apart.
In 1966, Veronica Weber’s in New York, doing a fashion shoot for Vogue and at the Frick museum, she feels very out of her depth and she’s only done smaller modelling jobs in the past. Veronica's worried about leaving her mum and sister Polly behind in England, and she wants to make enough money to take care of Polly who has special needs. Veronica finds herself locked inside the Frick museum, the power has gone out and New York’s been hit by a snow storm. College intern and budding art curator Joshua Lawrence has also been locked inside with Veronica and to pass the time they start a scavenger hunt. Looking for clues about the Frick family and they try to solve the mystery of what happened to the rare and expensive Magnolia diamond, it went missing in 1919 and hasn't been seen since.
The Magnolia Palace is a historical fiction story about the wealthy Frick family, it highlights the tension between the siblings, Helen and her mother’s odd behavior and Mr. Frick’s obsession with buying and collecting art. Based on true facts and you do wonder if Henry Frick felt any guilt about the flooding in Johnstown, Pennsylvania when a dam collapsed in 1889 and he was one of the investors. Fiona Davis has written another fascinating dual time masterpiece, thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Publishing for my copy in exchange for an honest review and five big stars from me.
January 21, 2022
Lillian Carter, working under the name Angelica, was a well-known model for many noted sculptures across New York City. In 1919, eight months after her mother dies of the Spanish Flu, Angelica’s career has waned. When a murder occurs in the building she is living in, her future becomes uncertain. With the hope of earning enough money to head west to Hollywood to try and start a career in the movies, Lillian finds her way into to the mansion of industrialist Henry Clay Frick. She becomes the private secretary to his daughter Helen, who is unaware of Lillian’s true identity, as the police search for Angelica to question her about the murder. The story shifts to 1966 as 18-year-old Veronica Webb starts her career as a model. Her first job is a shoot for Vogue set at The Frick Collection. The grand building is no longer a residence, but an art museum left to the city by its owner. When Veronica, who has her own complicated backstory, gets trapped in the museum during a snowstorm, she meets a young intern archivist and through clues left long ago, they find themselves searching for a rare, valuable gem. The story of Lillian, Helen and the Frick family is revealed as the mystery of the lost Magnolia Diamond is uncovered.
Author Fiona Davis has selected some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks as the locations for her books combining its history with an engaging fictional story which takes place in two time periods. Her choices of where to set her novels are all inspired. The Barbizon Hotel for Women, The Dakota, Grand Central Terminal, The Chelsea Hotel, The New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue and now, The Frick Collection. The Magnolia Palace does justice to one of the few remaining opulent structures from Old New York and its Gilded Age. Davis captures its grandeur with well-researched details. And by combining real-life historical figures, those inspired by true people and others imagined, we have another highly entertaining book with a well-developed story which should delight and captivate historical fiction fans, especially those who love books set in New York City. With each book, Fiona Davis continues to secure her place as a must-read author.
Once you read this book, you’ll want to visit The Frick, but note that the mansion is undergoing a major renovation so check for info on its reopening. The art collection has been moved to a temporary location. And get ready to Google Audrey Munson, the woman who inspired the character of Angelica.
Many thanks to Dutton / Penguin Group, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this engaging book prior to its January 25, 2022 publication date.
Rated 4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Author Fiona Davis has selected some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks as the locations for her books combining its history with an engaging fictional story which takes place in two time periods. Her choices of where to set her novels are all inspired. The Barbizon Hotel for Women, The Dakota, Grand Central Terminal, The Chelsea Hotel, The New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue and now, The Frick Collection. The Magnolia Palace does justice to one of the few remaining opulent structures from Old New York and its Gilded Age. Davis captures its grandeur with well-researched details. And by combining real-life historical figures, those inspired by true people and others imagined, we have another highly entertaining book with a well-developed story which should delight and captivate historical fiction fans, especially those who love books set in New York City. With each book, Fiona Davis continues to secure her place as a must-read author.
Once you read this book, you’ll want to visit The Frick, but note that the mansion is undergoing a major renovation so check for info on its reopening. The art collection has been moved to a temporary location. And get ready to Google Audrey Munson, the woman who inspired the character of Angelica.
Many thanks to Dutton / Penguin Group, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this engaging book prior to its January 25, 2022 publication date.
Rated 4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
April 23, 2022
The Magnolia Palace is another dual timeline masterpiece by Fiona Davis. One timeline takes us back to 1919 when Lillian, a model of the female form for sculptors of the time, loses her mother to the Spanish flu and also becomes a person of interest in the death of her landlord's wife. She stumbles into a job as the private secretary to Helen Frick whose father owns the mansion which eventually becomes the Frick Museum. The second timeline occurs in 1966 when aspiring model Veronica Weber gets left behind after a photo shoot at the Frick Museum and is trapped inside during a raging blizzard.
Both stories held me spellbound and I was totally immersed in both timelines. I don't really know a lot about art but the descriptions in this book really brought the pictures and statuary to life for me. I got so curious about the locale that I watched a couple of YouTube videos detailing the Frick Collection. The characters were very realistic and the ending was extremely satisfying. I think this might be my favourite Fiona Davis novel although I still need to read The Lions of Fifth Avenue. Highly recommended.
UPDATE: I forgot to include my favourite quote! "I rather enjoy being an eccentric old lady. The power that comes with not caring what others think is invigorating." (the fictional Helen Frick!). That's my new aspiration. Also, be sure to read the author's note at the end. It'll bring tears to your eyes.
I borrowed a copy of The Magnolia Palace from the London Public Library.
Both stories held me spellbound and I was totally immersed in both timelines. I don't really know a lot about art but the descriptions in this book really brought the pictures and statuary to life for me. I got so curious about the locale that I watched a couple of YouTube videos detailing the Frick Collection. The characters were very realistic and the ending was extremely satisfying. I think this might be my favourite Fiona Davis novel although I still need to read The Lions of Fifth Avenue. Highly recommended.
UPDATE: I forgot to include my favourite quote! "I rather enjoy being an eccentric old lady. The power that comes with not caring what others think is invigorating." (the fictional Helen Frick!). That's my new aspiration. Also, be sure to read the author's note at the end. It'll bring tears to your eyes.
I borrowed a copy of The Magnolia Palace from the London Public Library.
April 10, 2022
4.5 shining stars for this well done historical fiction masterpiece! I listened to the audiobook of The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis that was pleasantly narrated by Karissa Vacker. Fiona Davis’ novels notoriously are centered around a well known landmark in New York City. The Magnolia Palace was no exception. It brought the vibrant and complicated history of the Frick mansion, which later became a museum, to life. She brilliantly embraced the history of the Frick and portrayed it as another character in her novel as she revealed its charm, secrets and extravagance throughout its pages. The Magnolia Palace was a family saga that focused on family fortune, art masterpieces, loss, long kept secrets and unique family dynamics. It was also about murder, betrayal and personal struggles. It was extremely well written and the characters were well developed and rich. It was based on the Frick family members and Audrey Munson, a sculpture’s model. It was written in alternating time lines, switching back and forth between 1919 and 1966. There was just the right balance of fact and fiction to make The Magnolia Palace a delight to read.
In 1919, the Spanish Flu was spreading, attacking and killing. Lillian Carter, better known as Angelica, then a twenty-one year old artist’s model, knew this flu well. It had taken her mother from her. At one point, Angelica had been a much sought after artist’s model but work had seemed to have dried up recently. She was having a hard time making ends meet. Angelica was behind on the rent. The super of her apartment building was making inappropriate advances toward her that she had was trying to ignore. Angelica sent him a note that explained her situation and her intentions to ignore his advances. That innocent note led the police to question Angelica when the super’s wife was found murdered. When the police came to question Angelica and she realized they thought of her as a suspect in the murder, she escaped from her apartment through a window and down the fire escape. Her whole life felt that it had been upended, beginning with her mother’s death and now with this untrue accusation of murder. Angelica was desperate. As she ran for her life, Angelica happened to stumble upon an employment opportunity at the Frick Mansion. Unbeknownst to Angelica, Helen, the daughter of the wealthy industrialist and art collector Henry Clay Frick, was interviewing candidates for the position of her own personal secretary. Angelica was mistaken for one of the candidates to be interviewed and was ushered into the Frick mansion and offered tea as she waited. Miss Helen, as she liked to be called, hired Angelica that day. Angelica became the personal secretary of Miss Helen and became known as Miss Lilly to all concerned. She was safe, at least for now. Her life was about to evolve in a way that she never could have imagined, though.
Fifty years later in 1966, a young and inexperienced English model, Veronica Weber, found herself at the Frick museum for a photo shoot. The Frick mansion had been transformed into an impressive museum. Henry Clay Frick had bestowed his home to the city of New York with instructions to transform it into a museum, upon his death. Veronica, inexperienced, a bit stubborn and intimidated by the other models and the photographer, would not acquiesce to the demands and whims of the temperamental photographer. As a result, she found herself being dismissed from the shoot. When she emerged from the room where she had put on her own clothes, she soon realized that everyone had left without her and she was now locked in at the Frick. Veronica was not alone, though. Down in the confines of the basement, Joshua, a young black art curator intern, had fallen asleep while researching information about the Frick family. He was locked in as well. There was also a major snowstorm happening outside. Veronica and Joshua were stranded in the Frick. It would be days until someone would finally discover their whereabouts. With nothing to do, Veronica began to explore the Frick. Veronica came across an old scavenger hunt that someone had made probably decades ago. There were lots of clues. Veronica convinced Joshua to help her unravel the clues of the scavenger hunt. Together they completed the scavenger hunt and discovered something that had been thought lost or stolen for decades. Could Veronica and Joshua unearth clues to a murder that occurred in the Frick mansion decades ago? Would they be able to unravel the truth to what really happened at the Frick mansion all those years ago?
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis was captivating and intriguing. It was a thrilling mystery that centered around the Frick mansion. It was brilliantly executed in alternating POV between the two women protagonists. Fiona Davis wove the two time lines only to have them converge into a most satisfying ending. I have enjoyed reading all of Fiona Davis’s books and this one was no exception. I look forward to her next book and highly recommend this book.
In 1919, the Spanish Flu was spreading, attacking and killing. Lillian Carter, better known as Angelica, then a twenty-one year old artist’s model, knew this flu well. It had taken her mother from her. At one point, Angelica had been a much sought after artist’s model but work had seemed to have dried up recently. She was having a hard time making ends meet. Angelica was behind on the rent. The super of her apartment building was making inappropriate advances toward her that she had was trying to ignore. Angelica sent him a note that explained her situation and her intentions to ignore his advances. That innocent note led the police to question Angelica when the super’s wife was found murdered. When the police came to question Angelica and she realized they thought of her as a suspect in the murder, she escaped from her apartment through a window and down the fire escape. Her whole life felt that it had been upended, beginning with her mother’s death and now with this untrue accusation of murder. Angelica was desperate. As she ran for her life, Angelica happened to stumble upon an employment opportunity at the Frick Mansion. Unbeknownst to Angelica, Helen, the daughter of the wealthy industrialist and art collector Henry Clay Frick, was interviewing candidates for the position of her own personal secretary. Angelica was mistaken for one of the candidates to be interviewed and was ushered into the Frick mansion and offered tea as she waited. Miss Helen, as she liked to be called, hired Angelica that day. Angelica became the personal secretary of Miss Helen and became known as Miss Lilly to all concerned. She was safe, at least for now. Her life was about to evolve in a way that she never could have imagined, though.
Fifty years later in 1966, a young and inexperienced English model, Veronica Weber, found herself at the Frick museum for a photo shoot. The Frick mansion had been transformed into an impressive museum. Henry Clay Frick had bestowed his home to the city of New York with instructions to transform it into a museum, upon his death. Veronica, inexperienced, a bit stubborn and intimidated by the other models and the photographer, would not acquiesce to the demands and whims of the temperamental photographer. As a result, she found herself being dismissed from the shoot. When she emerged from the room where she had put on her own clothes, she soon realized that everyone had left without her and she was now locked in at the Frick. Veronica was not alone, though. Down in the confines of the basement, Joshua, a young black art curator intern, had fallen asleep while researching information about the Frick family. He was locked in as well. There was also a major snowstorm happening outside. Veronica and Joshua were stranded in the Frick. It would be days until someone would finally discover their whereabouts. With nothing to do, Veronica began to explore the Frick. Veronica came across an old scavenger hunt that someone had made probably decades ago. There were lots of clues. Veronica convinced Joshua to help her unravel the clues of the scavenger hunt. Together they completed the scavenger hunt and discovered something that had been thought lost or stolen for decades. Could Veronica and Joshua unearth clues to a murder that occurred in the Frick mansion decades ago? Would they be able to unravel the truth to what really happened at the Frick mansion all those years ago?
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis was captivating and intriguing. It was a thrilling mystery that centered around the Frick mansion. It was brilliantly executed in alternating POV between the two women protagonists. Fiona Davis wove the two time lines only to have them converge into a most satisfying ending. I have enjoyed reading all of Fiona Davis’s books and this one was no exception. I look forward to her next book and highly recommend this book.
April 30, 2022
Wonderful dual time historical fiction mystery. Spanning the years 1919 and 1966 in New York City.
Lillian Carter is a very sought after model. Her sculptures are all over New York City. She is trying to survive after the death of her mother.
She is involved in a scandal involving her landlord’s wife’s death.
Her job opportunities cease. She is on the run from the police when she disguises herself and finds an opportunity to work in the Frick mansion.
This story is loosely based on the real life artist Audrey Munson. In 1919 Audrey’s landlord was brutally murdered. Fiona Davis ‘s inspiration for this book came from Martha Frick Symington Sanger’s great granddaughter of Henry Clay Frick:”Bittersweet Heiress and Henry Clay Frick: An Intimate Portrait “.
Fiona Davis portrays the lifestyle of the Frick’s extremely well.
Lillian’s character is well developed as is the belligerent Helen Frick.
1966 a Vogue photo shoot at the Frick Museum, we meet Veronica Weber, who gets herself locked in the museum over night during a snow storm.
Secret messages are found along with a missing cameo from the past
The two stories become one.
A wonderful historical fiction mystery.
Lillian Carter is a very sought after model. Her sculptures are all over New York City. She is trying to survive after the death of her mother.
She is involved in a scandal involving her landlord’s wife’s death.
Her job opportunities cease. She is on the run from the police when she disguises herself and finds an opportunity to work in the Frick mansion.
This story is loosely based on the real life artist Audrey Munson. In 1919 Audrey’s landlord was brutally murdered. Fiona Davis ‘s inspiration for this book came from Martha Frick Symington Sanger’s great granddaughter of Henry Clay Frick:”Bittersweet Heiress and Henry Clay Frick: An Intimate Portrait “.
Fiona Davis portrays the lifestyle of the Frick’s extremely well.
Lillian’s character is well developed as is the belligerent Helen Frick.
1966 a Vogue photo shoot at the Frick Museum, we meet Veronica Weber, who gets herself locked in the museum over night during a snow storm.
Secret messages are found along with a missing cameo from the past
The two stories become one.
A wonderful historical fiction mystery.
April 17, 2022
The Magnolia Place by Fiona Davis: started off slow, almost boring. So glad I persevered through! It become a nice moving mystery. To solve ended on a dual timeline. Very interesting how it was solved to end the book and exonerate the possible accused. Many things become what they aren’t to begin with.
Shelved as 'dnf'
April 1, 2022I just can't go any further. This is another disappointing read. sadly.
May 19, 2024
The Magnolia Palace, a 2022 historical fiction novel written by Fiona Davis, hit my reading queue this week. Davis, a new author to me, now has another fan. Set in 1919 and 1966, the novel revolves around the Frick collection at the NYC museum Helen Frick founded after her father passed away. In 1919, a young model runs away only to be mistaken as a new personal secretary candidate for Helen Frick. She surprisingly gets the job and finds herself in the middle of the Frick family's conflicts. The father is dying, the mother is distraught over a daughter's death, the brother has run away to Long Island with his wife, and Helen is left to manage everything. When Lilly, the runaway model, helps find Helen a suitor, she finds herself entangled in the mess and accused of theft, on multiple counts. In 1966, two people are stuck inside the Frick museum after it closes down and they have no way out, so they explore various pieces of art, stumbling upon a secret from 1919 involving Helen and her family. How does everyone today connect to the past?
Loved the location/setting, having been to the Frick in the past - it is marvelous. I lived 10 blocks away and loved seeing the building's internal and external beauty. The stories are moving, if a little too coincidental and perhaps difficult to swallow. I also wonder if some may think there is a lot of truth in the tales- one never knows! But mostly, it was just the kind of book that firmly places you in a magnificent point in time. And the mention of magnolia trees and the various artistic connections kept me thoroughly intrigued. Definitely will be reading more from the author.
Loved the location/setting, having been to the Frick in the past - it is marvelous. I lived 10 blocks away and loved seeing the building's internal and external beauty. The stories are moving, if a little too coincidental and perhaps difficult to swallow. I also wonder if some may think there is a lot of truth in the tales- one never knows! But mostly, it was just the kind of book that firmly places you in a magnificent point in time. And the mention of magnolia trees and the various artistic connections kept me thoroughly intrigued. Definitely will be reading more from the author.
January 25, 2022
This was my January BOTM pick, and while Davis's books have been somewhat hit or miss for me lately, I think this one is her best yet!
Similar to The Lions of Fifth Avenue (although a much better storyline), this book also takes place in an iconic New York building, the Frick Museum, and weaves a brilliant web of fictional characters and historical characters with a dual timeline. In 1919, an artist's muse, Lillian, is running from a scandal and serendipitously winds up as personal secretary to Helen Frick, of the wealthy and dysfunctional Frick family; and in 1966, English model, Veronica, ends up snowed in at the Frick Museum with an archival intern, Joshua, and begins learning about the building's history. In Lillian's timeline, she finds that working as Helen's secretary offers her a better life - until her cover is blown, and her whole world falls apart. But over four decades later in Veronica's timeline, she is putting the pieces back together.
What I loved most about this book was that it sent me scouring Google for more information on the Frick Museum and Audrey Munson, on whom Lillian's character is loosely based. Fascinating stuff - I definitely want to check out the museum on my next trip to NYC! The plot moves at a fast pace, and the mystery kept me guessing until close to the end. I will say that as is usually the case with Davis's dual timeline plots, I enjoyed Lillian's story more than Veronica's, and there was a bit too much of a "happily ever after" ending for me, but those were my only gripes.
Overall, a powerful combination of historical fiction and mystery with a strong focus on family rivalry, the lives of the haves and have nots, and women’s rights. 4 stars!
Similar to The Lions of Fifth Avenue (although a much better storyline), this book also takes place in an iconic New York building, the Frick Museum, and weaves a brilliant web of fictional characters and historical characters with a dual timeline. In 1919, an artist's muse, Lillian, is running from a scandal and serendipitously winds up as personal secretary to Helen Frick, of the wealthy and dysfunctional Frick family; and in 1966, English model, Veronica, ends up snowed in at the Frick Museum with an archival intern, Joshua, and begins learning about the building's history. In Lillian's timeline, she finds that working as Helen's secretary offers her a better life - until her cover is blown, and her whole world falls apart. But over four decades later in Veronica's timeline, she is putting the pieces back together.
What I loved most about this book was that it sent me scouring Google for more information on the Frick Museum and Audrey Munson, on whom Lillian's character is loosely based. Fascinating stuff - I definitely want to check out the museum on my next trip to NYC! The plot moves at a fast pace, and the mystery kept me guessing until close to the end. I will say that as is usually the case with Davis's dual timeline plots, I enjoyed Lillian's story more than Veronica's, and there was a bit too much of a "happily ever after" ending for me, but those were my only gripes.
Overall, a powerful combination of historical fiction and mystery with a strong focus on family rivalry, the lives of the haves and have nots, and women’s rights. 4 stars!
February 12, 2022
2-1/2 /5
There are aspects of this book that are just too implausible.
NYC – 1919 – Lillian Carter aka Angelica, artist model falls on hard times. Work is drying up and Lillian has trouble paying the rent and then finds herself a suspect in the death of her landlord’s wife. On the run with aspirations of getting to Hollywood to become an actress she lands up, purely by accident at the door of the Frick mansion where they are expecting an applicant for the job of private Secretary to the imperious Helen Frick. Lillian is mistaken for that person and allows herself to be taken in for an interview whereupon she gets the job having no experience whatsoever. Within a few weeks she becomes almost indispensable to the family.
NYC – 1966 – Veronica Weber, British model is part of a photo shoot at the former Frick Mansion. She gets into a tiff with the photographer and is left behind by the company. She is alone in the mansion during a snow storm and a total blackout but is able to find her way around this massive cavern of a house with the aid of a candle (which she miraculously finds a match to light it). Shortly thereafter she finds she is not alone – Joshua – a part time employee joins her and they spend the time in the mansion finding clues that have been hidden for many years. All during a total blackout.
I mostly enjoyed learning about the Frick Museum and the Art Library.
The personal relationships, not so much.
The tie up at the end is just too neat and happy.
This is not this author’s finest moment.
There are aspects of this book that are just too implausible.
NYC – 1919 – Lillian Carter aka Angelica, artist model falls on hard times. Work is drying up and Lillian has trouble paying the rent and then finds herself a suspect in the death of her landlord’s wife. On the run with aspirations of getting to Hollywood to become an actress she lands up, purely by accident at the door of the Frick mansion where they are expecting an applicant for the job of private Secretary to the imperious Helen Frick. Lillian is mistaken for that person and allows herself to be taken in for an interview whereupon she gets the job having no experience whatsoever. Within a few weeks she becomes almost indispensable to the family.
NYC – 1966 – Veronica Weber, British model is part of a photo shoot at the former Frick Mansion. She gets into a tiff with the photographer and is left behind by the company. She is alone in the mansion during a snow storm and a total blackout but is able to find her way around this massive cavern of a house with the aid of a candle (which she miraculously finds a match to light it). Shortly thereafter she finds she is not alone – Joshua – a part time employee joins her and they spend the time in the mansion finding clues that have been hidden for many years. All during a total blackout.
I mostly enjoyed learning about the Frick Museum and the Art Library.
The personal relationships, not so much.
The tie up at the end is just too neat and happy.
This is not this author’s finest moment.
January 25, 2022
Henry Clay Frick, the wealthy industrialist known for his involvement in U.S. Steel, had architects design his home to be built on New York City’s (NYC) Fifth Ave. and E 70th Street. Construction on the mansion began in 1913 but wasn’t completed until 1914. Frick was an avid art collector, and he knew then that he wanted his mansion turned into the Frick Museum after the deaths of he and his wife, with free admittance for the people of Manhattan. The impressive building was opened as a museum in 1935 with three magnificent Magnolia trees in the entrance gardens.
Fiona Davis, the best-selling, New York Times author of historical fiction, specifically writes about NYC landmarks. She is known to do extensive research on her projects and includes invaluable reader information in her Author Notes, explaining what is fact, and what is fiction. This reader enjoys these notes and rates Ms. Davis’ the best author doing so.
Our story begins in 1919, just months after Lillian Carter’s mother succumbed to the Spanish Flu. Lillian is just 21 years old and feels unmoored without her mother. She’s been a popular artists’ model since she was 15 years old, but always with her mother at her side. “Angelica” is the name Lillian models under, mostly because some of the statues that bear her likeness are partially nude. These works of art, however, are placed at landmarks around the city, such as: the Plaza Hotel, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Three Graces at the Hotel Astor; even at the entrance of the Frick Mansion.
While the statues are praised, the beautiful Lillian is judged negatively, as the model who poses partially nude to create them. When Lillian’s landlord murders his wife, she is immediately assumed involved just by the nature of her work. With her mother not there to protect her Lillian goes on the run but must find other work to survive. This leads her to find a job opportunity in the Frick mansion as the private secretary to Helen Clay Frick, Henry’s daughter. Although Lillian has no experience as a secretary, her knowledge of art and artists enables her to convince Helen she’s the perfect fit.
Lillian gets drawn into the of the family and absorbed into their drama of secrets, jealousies, and betrayals she never imagined. Would she have to be on the run again?
Fifty years later, 60’s fashion model Veronica Weber, on assignment from England has her own employment opportunity with Vogue, at a shoot taking place at the Frick Museum. She’s a novice and entirely out of her element making several mistakes and annoying the photographer to the point he dismisses her. Meanwhile, Joshua the art curator/intern is trying to protect the Frick Collection from the careless group when he and Veronica connect. Even better, a huge snow storm descends on NYC trapping Veronica and Joshua in the Museum after all the others left. With the security locks and alarms set that can’t leave without alerting police and scandal.
During their confinement Veronica discovers hidden messages left over from an incomplete scavenger hunt that leads them to the missing Magnolia Diamond; only for it to end up missing again. They will meet Helen Frick, still alive and living in a private residence connected to the museum. Will they find the diamond? Will they ever find out what happened to Lillian?
This historical fiction novel written by Fiona Davis adds so much to the story of the Frick family, the residence that began as the renowned Frick Mansion containing the invaluable Frick Collection. You won’t be able to put in down and you’ll want to make plans to go see the Frick Museum for yourself.
Thank you to Netgalley, Edelweiss, PRH – Dutton, and Fiona Davis.
Fiona Davis, the best-selling, New York Times author of historical fiction, specifically writes about NYC landmarks. She is known to do extensive research on her projects and includes invaluable reader information in her Author Notes, explaining what is fact, and what is fiction. This reader enjoys these notes and rates Ms. Davis’ the best author doing so.
Our story begins in 1919, just months after Lillian Carter’s mother succumbed to the Spanish Flu. Lillian is just 21 years old and feels unmoored without her mother. She’s been a popular artists’ model since she was 15 years old, but always with her mother at her side. “Angelica” is the name Lillian models under, mostly because some of the statues that bear her likeness are partially nude. These works of art, however, are placed at landmarks around the city, such as: the Plaza Hotel, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Three Graces at the Hotel Astor; even at the entrance of the Frick Mansion.
While the statues are praised, the beautiful Lillian is judged negatively, as the model who poses partially nude to create them. When Lillian’s landlord murders his wife, she is immediately assumed involved just by the nature of her work. With her mother not there to protect her Lillian goes on the run but must find other work to survive. This leads her to find a job opportunity in the Frick mansion as the private secretary to Helen Clay Frick, Henry’s daughter. Although Lillian has no experience as a secretary, her knowledge of art and artists enables her to convince Helen she’s the perfect fit.
Lillian gets drawn into the of the family and absorbed into their drama of secrets, jealousies, and betrayals she never imagined. Would she have to be on the run again?
Fifty years later, 60’s fashion model Veronica Weber, on assignment from England has her own employment opportunity with Vogue, at a shoot taking place at the Frick Museum. She’s a novice and entirely out of her element making several mistakes and annoying the photographer to the point he dismisses her. Meanwhile, Joshua the art curator/intern is trying to protect the Frick Collection from the careless group when he and Veronica connect. Even better, a huge snow storm descends on NYC trapping Veronica and Joshua in the Museum after all the others left. With the security locks and alarms set that can’t leave without alerting police and scandal.
During their confinement Veronica discovers hidden messages left over from an incomplete scavenger hunt that leads them to the missing Magnolia Diamond; only for it to end up missing again. They will meet Helen Frick, still alive and living in a private residence connected to the museum. Will they find the diamond? Will they ever find out what happened to Lillian?
This historical fiction novel written by Fiona Davis adds so much to the story of the Frick family, the residence that began as the renowned Frick Mansion containing the invaluable Frick Collection. You won’t be able to put in down and you’ll want to make plans to go see the Frick Museum for yourself.
Thank you to Netgalley, Edelweiss, PRH – Dutton, and Fiona Davis.
January 21, 2024
Davis is known for her historical fiction novels. “The Lions of Fifth Avenue” took us inside the New York Public Library. “The Masterpiece” took us to the Grand Central School of Art at the Grand Central Terminal. (Review links for both below.)
So…
When this book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I couldn’t help but say yes to wanting to read it.
Especially when…
The story happens around the impressive Gilded Age mansion of Henry Clay Frick.
And…
The story centers around a “supermodel” like character in the early 1900’s and another “aspiring model” character in 1966.
With…
A mystery disappearance of that same “supermodel” character with another Frick employee, along with the Frick’s “missing” magnolia diamond taking centerstage…
This…
Felt like it could be quite an interesting read.
The author sets it up for the story of the past to unfold in the future as characters find clue after clue, trying to determine who those people were in the past and how and why they disappeared.
Also…
The author integrates the history of the Frick family and the mansion into the story.
I believe the author intended for this to be a family story of the heart. It unfolded slowly where readers could experience the dramatic woes of love, heartbreak, redemption and new beginnings.
But…
Was it too slow to fully capture readers?
So…
For those who may want to be patient with the book…
And…
If you happen to enjoy family drama, with a mystery and some art history tossed in, this one might satisfy.
But…
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end.
3.5 stars rounded up.
For more Fiona Davis…
The Lions of Fifth Avenue Review Here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Masterpiece Review Here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So…
When this book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I couldn’t help but say yes to wanting to read it.
Especially when…
The story happens around the impressive Gilded Age mansion of Henry Clay Frick.
And…
The story centers around a “supermodel” like character in the early 1900’s and another “aspiring model” character in 1966.
With…
A mystery disappearance of that same “supermodel” character with another Frick employee, along with the Frick’s “missing” magnolia diamond taking centerstage…
This…
Felt like it could be quite an interesting read.
The author sets it up for the story of the past to unfold in the future as characters find clue after clue, trying to determine who those people were in the past and how and why they disappeared.
Also…
The author integrates the history of the Frick family and the mansion into the story.
I believe the author intended for this to be a family story of the heart. It unfolded slowly where readers could experience the dramatic woes of love, heartbreak, redemption and new beginnings.
But…
Was it too slow to fully capture readers?
So…
For those who may want to be patient with the book…
And…
If you happen to enjoy family drama, with a mystery and some art history tossed in, this one might satisfy.
But…
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end.
3.5 stars rounded up.
For more Fiona Davis…
The Lions of Fifth Avenue Review Here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Masterpiece Review Here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 27, 2021
Fiona Davis has mastered the use of the dual timeline in the historical fiction novels. This time she highlights the New York City’s Henry Clay Frick house once home to the wealthy Frick family and now a museum.
In 1919, Lillian Carter is a much sought-after artist model known professionally as Angelica (based on real life model Audrey Munson). Lillian has lost her mother to the Spanish Flu. Now paralyzed with grief, she does not know how to continue to work and live. When she inadvertently witnesses a murder in her apartment building, she flees from the police who think that she is part of a love triangle that led up to murder. Lillian happens upon a chance to hid at the Frick mansion when she is offered a job as the personal secretary to Helen Clay Frick daughter of wealthy Henry Clay Frick. Despite the demands of her new employer, Lillian soon finds success in her new position, even attempting to help Helen make an advantageous marriage.
Fast forward to 1966 and British aspiring model Veronica Weber finds herself on a photo shoot in New York City at the Frick Mansion, now functioning as a museum. When the photo shoot goes wrong, Veronica is locked in the mansion during a fierce snowstorm. While there she happens upon some papers describing a scavenger hunt that Helen had made for her soon to be fiancé. Trapped in the mansion along with Veronica is archivist Joshua Lawrence. the duo set out to decipher the clues that will ultimately lead to a solution of a long-lost secret.
Davis’ novels bring to life many of New York Cities landmarks, and this one is no exception. Along with beautiful descriptions of the famous art collection housed in the museum, this is an intricately plotted novel, with engaging characters and a well-developed story line. Davis masterfully combines history, fiction, and mystery to bring alive the Frick family and their amazing art collection. I highly recommend this to readers of historical fiction, especially those with an interest in art history and the amazing architecture of New York City.
Thank you to Penguin Group Dutton and NetGalley for the e-Arc.
In 1919, Lillian Carter is a much sought-after artist model known professionally as Angelica (based on real life model Audrey Munson). Lillian has lost her mother to the Spanish Flu. Now paralyzed with grief, she does not know how to continue to work and live. When she inadvertently witnesses a murder in her apartment building, she flees from the police who think that she is part of a love triangle that led up to murder. Lillian happens upon a chance to hid at the Frick mansion when she is offered a job as the personal secretary to Helen Clay Frick daughter of wealthy Henry Clay Frick. Despite the demands of her new employer, Lillian soon finds success in her new position, even attempting to help Helen make an advantageous marriage.
Fast forward to 1966 and British aspiring model Veronica Weber finds herself on a photo shoot in New York City at the Frick Mansion, now functioning as a museum. When the photo shoot goes wrong, Veronica is locked in the mansion during a fierce snowstorm. While there she happens upon some papers describing a scavenger hunt that Helen had made for her soon to be fiancé. Trapped in the mansion along with Veronica is archivist Joshua Lawrence. the duo set out to decipher the clues that will ultimately lead to a solution of a long-lost secret.
Davis’ novels bring to life many of New York Cities landmarks, and this one is no exception. Along with beautiful descriptions of the famous art collection housed in the museum, this is an intricately plotted novel, with engaging characters and a well-developed story line. Davis masterfully combines history, fiction, and mystery to bring alive the Frick family and their amazing art collection. I highly recommend this to readers of historical fiction, especially those with an interest in art history and the amazing architecture of New York City.
Thank you to Penguin Group Dutton and NetGalley for the e-Arc.
January 10, 2022
Not a fan of this one! The mystery promised on the book jacket was not even introduced until two-thirds of the way through, the writing was blah, and the connective tissue to 1966 was absurd!
February 17, 2022
The middle part of this one got so slow that I almost DNF'd it... glad I persevered to the end. Maybe it was just me, as many seem to have loved it 🤷🏻♀️. I've read all her back-list, and this one is pretty true to her formula of 2 women in different timelines & a famous NYC building... but it was no "Masterpiece" for me. I also enjoyed learning more about the real-life inspiration for the earlier character. As I seem to be an outlier, I urge readers to still check it out, along with the author's back list... and I will check out her next book.
April 12, 2022
I've read all of Fiona Davis's historical fiction novels, and I look forward when a new one comes out each year. The Magnolia Palace was an enjoyable read and gave me the opportunity to learn about the Frick family. The author has a knack for incorporating facts into a creative story.
It's 1919 and after the death of her mother, Lilian Carter is struggling to make ends meet. She's worked as an artist's model under the name Angelica with her figure gracing many NYC landmarks. The work has dried up though and after a chain of events she gains employment as the private secretary of Helen Frick. Henry Clay Frick, Helen's father, is among the wealthiest in the city and is an avid art collector.
Lillian's time working for Helen is just part of the story. The other half focuses on English model Veronica Weber who in 1966 is taking part in a Vogue photo shoot at a museum that was the former Frick residence. She stumbles upon some hidden messages which puts her on track to potentially solving a decades old mystery involving the Fricks.
Compared to her other novels, this one seemed more centered around the characters rather than the landmark, in this case the Frick mansion. It's certainly a part of the story but not on the same level as say, the New York Public Library was in her previous book. Lillian was the driving character and I found myself more interested in her chapters rather than the ones led by Veronica. However, they both contributed something worthwhile.
Fiona Davis has managed to carve a niche in the historical fiction genre and I highly recommend checking out her books.
It's 1919 and after the death of her mother, Lilian Carter is struggling to make ends meet. She's worked as an artist's model under the name Angelica with her figure gracing many NYC landmarks. The work has dried up though and after a chain of events she gains employment as the private secretary of Helen Frick. Henry Clay Frick, Helen's father, is among the wealthiest in the city and is an avid art collector.
Lillian's time working for Helen is just part of the story. The other half focuses on English model Veronica Weber who in 1966 is taking part in a Vogue photo shoot at a museum that was the former Frick residence. She stumbles upon some hidden messages which puts her on track to potentially solving a decades old mystery involving the Fricks.
Compared to her other novels, this one seemed more centered around the characters rather than the landmark, in this case the Frick mansion. It's certainly a part of the story but not on the same level as say, the New York Public Library was in her previous book. Lillian was the driving character and I found myself more interested in her chapters rather than the ones led by Veronica. However, they both contributed something worthwhile.
Fiona Davis has managed to carve a niche in the historical fiction genre and I highly recommend checking out her books.
March 24, 2022
I have very mixed feelings about The Magnolia Palace. I hadn't read from Fiona Davis before and I'll be the first to admit that historical fiction isn't often my genre of choice. That said, The Magnolia Palace has some fascinating elements but while the final portion of the book is a page turner, the rest of the book has a real pacing problem. It takes forever to to get into the main mystery and starting that sooner really would have helped.
The story is told in two timelines- one in 1919 following a young woman who has been a popular muse for sculptors and artists, who ends up hiding out from the police as personal secretary to one of the Frick family. Then in the 60's we follow a model who works a photo shoot at the Frick mansion and ends up discovering lost clues to a decades old scavenger hunt. Plus there is a murder mystery, though only towards the very end.
Both timelines had parts that were compelling and parts that were incredibly dull. Ultimately I did like this more than not and found the author's note a fascinating addition to the history behind what is now the Frick Museum in New York City. The history of modeling and social responses to it were quite interesting as well.
The story is told in two timelines- one in 1919 following a young woman who has been a popular muse for sculptors and artists, who ends up hiding out from the police as personal secretary to one of the Frick family. Then in the 60's we follow a model who works a photo shoot at the Frick mansion and ends up discovering lost clues to a decades old scavenger hunt. Plus there is a murder mystery, though only towards the very end.
Both timelines had parts that were compelling and parts that were incredibly dull. Ultimately I did like this more than not and found the author's note a fascinating addition to the history behind what is now the Frick Museum in New York City. The history of modeling and social responses to it were quite interesting as well.
September 20, 2021
Fiona Davis is truly a master at her craft. She continues to amaze me with each and every book that she publishes. I learn so much from her novels, and I find myself just completely enraptured in them. Truly, when I start a Fiona Davis book, there’s this itch inside me, that’s begging to get to the end, because you have to learn what the connection is with her two timelines. Her writing, such beautifully crafted, just draws you into the story and you don’t want to set the book aside.
The Magnolia Palace is no exception, her four previous novels having all done this to me. I thought that she had outdone herself with the master level she reached with The Lions of Fifth Avenue; but she has managed to pull me in once again and just impress me with page after page. As with all Davis books, they center around a New York City landmark, that I usually know nothing to very little about, and this particular book surrounds The Frick Museum and the life of Helen Clay Frick, a woman whom I had not heard of 72 hours ago, but I wish to learn more about fiercely, because in this novel that woman is a true spitfire, and I just completely fell in love with the way Fiona wrote her.
The Magnolia Palace has a 1919 timeline where a young model begins to work as a private secretary for Helen Frick, and a timeline in 1966 when another model is working at The Frick Museum and she gets stuck inside during a storm...........and the two timelines just merge absolutely beautifully.
I just finished it. And I want to read it again. Yes, it’s that good.
The Magnolia Palace is no exception, her four previous novels having all done this to me. I thought that she had outdone herself with the master level she reached with The Lions of Fifth Avenue; but she has managed to pull me in once again and just impress me with page after page. As with all Davis books, they center around a New York City landmark, that I usually know nothing to very little about, and this particular book surrounds The Frick Museum and the life of Helen Clay Frick, a woman whom I had not heard of 72 hours ago, but I wish to learn more about fiercely, because in this novel that woman is a true spitfire, and I just completely fell in love with the way Fiona wrote her.
The Magnolia Palace has a 1919 timeline where a young model begins to work as a private secretary for Helen Frick, and a timeline in 1966 when another model is working at The Frick Museum and she gets stuck inside during a storm...........and the two timelines just merge absolutely beautifully.
I just finished it. And I want to read it again. Yes, it’s that good.
June 14, 2023
A well-written book but honestly not my cup of tea. I found it hard to follow the story, which was nothing special and couldn't connect to anyone in this novel. It feels as though the characters were all undeveloped and i couldn't care less for any of them. A really, unfortunate read but with a beautiful cover. Therefore 2 stars from me!
April 9, 2022
This book turned out to be much better than I expected and I mostly enjoyed it. However, I have to admit that it dragged during the middle and it took me a while to start enjoying it, hence the 3 stars rating.
February 22, 2022
Lilian Carter was the most sought after model in 1919, but when her mother passes away everything changes. The work seems to have dried up and she is in need of a new job. All this, as well as a sudden scandal that has her name on it leaves Lilian at a loss. She needs to get away and when she does she finds work as a secretary for the infamous Frick mansion.
The Frick family is high society, and the more time Lilian spends with the family the more she becomes entangled in the family drama. It's a part of the job, but things start to unravel when an important jewel disappears, lies are exposed, and even worse, death.
The dual story involves another model who arrives in what was the Frick family home in the 1960's but now an impressive museum. When she is dismissed from one of her shoots, she happens to come across some hidden messages that will help solve an age old mystery of murder and mayhem.
This Magnolia Palace is loosely based off of actual events. I really enjoyed the beginning of the story, but it started to drag in the middle. I almost didn't finish the book, but in the end the two stories merged together and it turned out fine.
I see that many people adored this book. My review does not seem to align with many other readers. I just didn't find a connection in the romance, an engaging mystery, or a dual plot that aligned. I think the characters were interesting and dynamic, but the story unfolded too slowly for me.
3/5 stars.
The Frick family is high society, and the more time Lilian spends with the family the more she becomes entangled in the family drama. It's a part of the job, but things start to unravel when an important jewel disappears, lies are exposed, and even worse, death.
The dual story involves another model who arrives in what was the Frick family home in the 1960's but now an impressive museum. When she is dismissed from one of her shoots, she happens to come across some hidden messages that will help solve an age old mystery of murder and mayhem.
This Magnolia Palace is loosely based off of actual events. I really enjoyed the beginning of the story, but it started to drag in the middle. I almost didn't finish the book, but in the end the two stories merged together and it turned out fine.
I see that many people adored this book. My review does not seem to align with many other readers. I just didn't find a connection in the romance, an engaging mystery, or a dual plot that aligned. I think the characters were interesting and dynamic, but the story unfolded too slowly for me.
3/5 stars.
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