The Magnolia Palace: A Novel

Product Information

I always enjoy books by Fiona Davis as I learn about NYC’s historic landmarks while reading a well written historical fiction. Her books are also perfect for book clubs. 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?

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. Note that this guide, like all of the guides, may contain spoilers. I recommend reading the book before the guide. Online ResourcesWhen Lillian finally confesses her secret to Richard, her worst fears come true, and he ends their relationship. As Lillian tries to move on with her life and pursue her dreams of stardom in Hollywood, she is faced with a harsh reality. A producer connection reveals his plans to use Lillian’s past as Angelica for sordid plots, effectively putting an end to her acting career before it even begins. The blending of the two time lines and the intriguing story line is signature Fiona Davis as she again gives us another wonderful history lesson. Overall, I found the story fascinating and am eager for another story by Fiona Davis. I think anyone with an interest in the architectural landmarks of NYC will enjoy this book. Another brilliant historical thriller from Davis, this time set in a Gilded Age mansion in New York City. You will fall in love with Lillian, the penniless young artist's model surviving the Spanish Flu of 1919, and Veronica, the young mod model of the 1960s, and Davis's deftly written and beautifully woven feminist storytelling." - Tara Moss

The summary for The Magnolia Palace delves into the plot, characters, and themes of the novel, providing a comprehensive understanding of the book’s nuances. But it’s not just the sculpture that takes her breath away. For the first time in her life, Lillian feels recognized and valued for her contribution to the art world. She had spent so many years hiding her past as Angelica, fearing discrimination and shame, but now she feels vindicated. As she watches the tour groups admire the sculpture and learn about her role in its creation, Lillian knows that she has finally found the respect and recognition that she deserves. 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.

Find a Book

Wasn’t observing Veronica’s outside’ she was trying to understand her inside. It wasn’t about being looked at’ it was about being seen.’”

The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray is an excellent historical novel, also set in New York City, that opens up a conversation on art and being seen. The novel Horse by Geraldine Brooks is also a very good choice for a conversation on art and unknown stories. Looked at and being seen Mr. Rossi waited, holding a boxwood shaper in one hand and a rag in the other. Even after six years of posing, Lillian had never quite gotten used to being called by her stage name, chosen by her mother, Kitty, to protect her family’s reputation, which was a real laugh. As if they were the Astors or something. Lillian pulled the silk up over her shoulder so only one breast was exposed. The material was slippery and refused to Her landlord was hounding her to pay rent when he murdered his wife and the police found a note from her that was a bit compromising. They thought Lillian was in on the murder so they could be together.

Fiona Davis

The magic of Fiona Davis is the tenderness with which she crafts her settings, so that they bloom into characters themselves. We come to know them. We come to love them. And they help us to understand our place in time. The Magnolia Palace is a love letter to art and history. An intriguing, beautiful read." - Sarah Addison Allen