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A Fortune of Sand
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Expected 26 May 26Win a free print copy of this book!
21 days and 00:30:54
50 copies available
U.S. only
The daughter of an automotive magnate escapes to an artistic retreat that holds more secrets—and more intrigue—than she could have ever imagined, in this Prohibition-era novel from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Salt to the Sea.
Detroit, 1927. A city of smoke and ambition, where glittering wealth conceals a graveyard of secrets.
Marjorie Lennox is the youngest daughter of a powerful automotive dynasty, a family known for money, not manners. Artistic, impulsive, and always slightly out of step, Marjorie has long been dismissed by her controlling father and self-absorbed siblings. But when she secretly applies to an exclusive arts program funded by an elusive benefactor, she sees a chance to redefine herself on her own terms.
The building is grand. The participants are gifted. But something…is off.
The program is uncomfortably restrictive. Doors lock at odd hours. Strange sounds echo through the halls amid whispers that women are disappearing. And the handsome benefactor’s presence—mostly absent, yet somehow everywhere—begins to unnerve her. As Marjorie’s sense of self begins to slip, so does her grip on the truth. What happens to women who don’t fit neatly into a gilded frame?
Set against the crumbling grandeur of 1920s Detroit and inspired by actual, long-buried historical events, A Fortune of Sand is a haunting mosaic of glamour and grift—a novel about those who vanish, and those who demand to be seen.
Detroit, 1927. A city of smoke and ambition, where glittering wealth conceals a graveyard of secrets.
Marjorie Lennox is the youngest daughter of a powerful automotive dynasty, a family known for money, not manners. Artistic, impulsive, and always slightly out of step, Marjorie has long been dismissed by her controlling father and self-absorbed siblings. But when she secretly applies to an exclusive arts program funded by an elusive benefactor, she sees a chance to redefine herself on her own terms.
The building is grand. The participants are gifted. But something…is off.
The program is uncomfortably restrictive. Doors lock at odd hours. Strange sounds echo through the halls amid whispers that women are disappearing. And the handsome benefactor’s presence—mostly absent, yet somehow everywhere—begins to unnerve her. As Marjorie’s sense of self begins to slip, so does her grip on the truth. What happens to women who don’t fit neatly into a gilded frame?
Set against the crumbling grandeur of 1920s Detroit and inspired by actual, long-buried historical events, A Fortune of Sand is a haunting mosaic of glamour and grift—a novel about those who vanish, and those who demand to be seen.
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication May 26, 2026
28379 people want to read
About the author
Ruta Sepetys
17 books25.8k followers#1 New York Times Bestselling Author and Winner of the Carnegie Medal.
Ruta Sepetys was born and raised in Michigan in a family of artists, readers, and music lovers. The daughter of a refugee, Ruta is drawn to underrepresented stories of strength through struggle and hopes to give voice to those who weren't able to tell their story. Her award-winning historical novels are published in over sixty countries and have received over forty literary prizes.
For more information:
https://www.rutasepetys.com
https://www.facebook.com/rutasepetys
https://www.instagram.com/rutasepetys...
https://www.twitter.com/rutasepetys
Ruta Sepetys was born and raised in Michigan in a family of artists, readers, and music lovers. The daughter of a refugee, Ruta is drawn to underrepresented stories of strength through struggle and hopes to give voice to those who weren't able to tell their story. Her award-winning historical novels are published in over sixty countries and have received over forty literary prizes.
For more information:
https://www.rutasepetys.com
https://www.facebook.com/rutasepetys
https://www.instagram.com/rutasepetys...
https://www.twitter.com/rutasepetys
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October 19, 2025auto read author
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
➳ 2.5 ☆! ⏳ spoiler free + mini review
⤷ okay this was insightful. im already eager to see what ruta does next!
arc! @netgalley
⋆˚࿔ 42nd review of the year
₊‧꒰my thoughts꒱ ‧₊+
⤷ when i first received the email that i'd be able to read this book early, i was ELATED!! super excited because ruta sepetys is one of my all time favorite authors, especially for the historical fiction genre. i was also very intrigued because this was her adult debut and she hasn't released a new novel in a while. unfortunately, i didn't end up loving this one as much as her other works! but i think the writing was solid, the plot line was unique, and if anyone is interested in detriot 1920s with an intriguing family history.. it's worth a shot! 🤍
⤷ i believe the main reason i wasn't as immersed in this novel was because i couldn't connect to the characters. i didn't really care for them and i dont think i could understand them on a deeper level. imo, they felt a bit surface level and that can be a problem for me! (since characters make up one of the biggest reasons on why i love a book) other than that, the romance was okay. its not really the center of the book so dont expect much! 💫
⤷ for my favorite parts: i can always appreciate ruta for making her writing and chapters simple and sweet! it was a breeze flying through this and i loved some of the humor that was brought up. i also love how ruta was from detroit and that she decided to do this project to discover more. i will always appreciate an author who brings something from the past (whether that be good or bad) into the light! ⏳
~ with all the being said, i cannot wait for others to read it and i hope they love this! my main issue was that i just couldn't fully connect/get into the story. im also excited to see if ruta will publish something soon again 🤭 can't help the reader fan in me! until the next one 👀
tropes!
⋆ detroit 1920s
⋆ historical fiction
⋆ family drama/scandals
⋆ women led
₊‧꒰info!꒱ ‧₊
⤷ find my book review on goodreads @elliexreads
⤷ this is recommended for adult and new adult readers
⤷ adult historical fiction
publish date: may 26, 2026
₊‧ all ratings and opinions are my own ₊‧
⤷ thank you @netgalley and random house publishing for the arc in exchange for an honest review !🫂
---------
₊‧꒰5.1.26꒱ ‧₊
⤷ happy may everyone!! wow.. how are we already here?! anyways, thank you to netgalley and the author for providing this arc!! was elated when i got the email 🥹💫 i literally just read a book by ruta a few days ago and enjoyed it! i love that this is her debut adult novel, more thoughts soon
⤷ okay this was insightful. im already eager to see what ruta does next!
arc! @netgalley
⋆˚࿔ 42nd review of the year
book summary: marjorie lennox is the daughter of a wealthy automotive dynasty set in 1927 detroit. the arts program that she applies to has something fishy going on.. with self-centered siblings, complicated relationships with families, what will marjorie do when she finds women are expected to fit into a certain agenda? will she be the one to break through? find out the mystery with her!
₊‧꒰my thoughts꒱ ‧₊+
⤷ when i first received the email that i'd be able to read this book early, i was ELATED!! super excited because ruta sepetys is one of my all time favorite authors, especially for the historical fiction genre. i was also very intrigued because this was her adult debut and she hasn't released a new novel in a while. unfortunately, i didn't end up loving this one as much as her other works! but i think the writing was solid, the plot line was unique, and if anyone is interested in detriot 1920s with an intriguing family history.. it's worth a shot! 🤍
⤷ i believe the main reason i wasn't as immersed in this novel was because i couldn't connect to the characters. i didn't really care for them and i dont think i could understand them on a deeper level. imo, they felt a bit surface level and that can be a problem for me! (since characters make up one of the biggest reasons on why i love a book) other than that, the romance was okay. its not really the center of the book so dont expect much! 💫
⤷ for my favorite parts: i can always appreciate ruta for making her writing and chapters simple and sweet! it was a breeze flying through this and i loved some of the humor that was brought up. i also love how ruta was from detroit and that she decided to do this project to discover more. i will always appreciate an author who brings something from the past (whether that be good or bad) into the light! ⏳
~ with all the being said, i cannot wait for others to read it and i hope they love this! my main issue was that i just couldn't fully connect/get into the story. im also excited to see if ruta will publish something soon again 🤭 can't help the reader fan in me! until the next one 👀
tropes!
⋆ detroit 1920s
⋆ historical fiction
⋆ family drama/scandals
⋆ women led
₊‧꒰info!꒱ ‧₊
⤷ find my book review on goodreads @elliexreads
⤷ this is recommended for adult and new adult readers
⤷ adult historical fiction
publish date: may 26, 2026
₊‧ all ratings and opinions are my own ₊‧
⤷ thank you @netgalley and random house publishing for the arc in exchange for an honest review !🫂
---------
₊‧꒰preview ᝰ.ᐟ꒱ ‧₊ ⏳
₊‧꒰5.1.26꒱ ‧₊
⤷ happy may everyone!! wow.. how are we already here?! anyways, thank you to netgalley and the author for providing this arc!! was elated when i got the email 🥹💫 i literally just read a book by ruta a few days ago and enjoyed it! i love that this is her debut adult novel, more thoughts soon
January 20, 2026
To say I’m disappointed is a gross understatement. Ruta Sepetys has a true talent for writing wonderful, amazing stories. This story does not fall under that category, unfortunately.
This book falls into the category of an interesting story in the hands of a very talented story teller, who writes a good story and then taints it with content that takes away from the story and ruins the reading experience.
She did up the reading age from YA to adult.. so I’ll give her that I suppose.
Content: STDs, tons of alcohol abuse. Spouse abuse. Mentions of the FMCs friend having “fun” with her father when she dresses up as her deceased mother. 🤢 … which actually turns out to be her pedophile husband who married her at the age of 13 that requires her to call him “daddy” 🤮, crass innuendos, the MC observing an orgy through a window, nothing descriptive but leads us to use our imaginations.. (I don’t want my imagination going to the places she’s leading us to.)
I’m not sure what happened here but I definitely won’t be reading anymore from this author if this is the direction she is going to pursue with her writing. This story could have been SO good! Very disappointing.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the arc of this book.
I don’t even know what to rate this.. I’m just going to go with a 1 star for the pedophile being called daddy. It’s just too much.
This book falls into the category of an interesting story in the hands of a very talented story teller, who writes a good story and then taints it with content that takes away from the story and ruins the reading experience.
She did up the reading age from YA to adult.. so I’ll give her that I suppose.
Content: STDs, tons of alcohol abuse. Spouse abuse. Mentions of the FMCs friend having “fun” with her father when she dresses up as her deceased mother. 🤢 … which actually turns out to be her pedophile husband who married her at the age of 13 that requires her to call him “daddy” 🤮, crass innuendos, the MC observing an orgy through a window, nothing descriptive but leads us to use our imaginations.. (I don’t want my imagination going to the places she’s leading us to.)
I’m not sure what happened here but I definitely won’t be reading anymore from this author if this is the direction she is going to pursue with her writing. This story could have been SO good! Very disappointing.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the arc of this book.
I don’t even know what to rate this.. I’m just going to go with a 1 star for the pedophile being called daddy. It’s just too much.
Want to Read
September 23, 2025!!!!!! Can’t possibly wait for the SUMMER
March 12, 2026
A FORTUNE OF SAND
This story is set in Detroit and Grosse Pointe in 1927 and centers around the very wealthy Lennox family. In the automotive capital of the world, they’ve made their fortune in windshields and have become members of the Nouveau Riche.
Family dynamics range from bizarre to really bizarre, with three generations living in the magnificent Glen Arden estate. Secrets, lies, schemes, and crimes are plentiful. And of course there is a handsome, rich, reclusive bachelor who lives just down the road a ways.
Full of glitz, glamour, and humor, many important topics are also interwoven, including mental health, grief, decadence, trust, and changing societal norms. There is a lot of terrific information about the auto industry, prohibition, and Detroit and Grosse Pointe areas 100 years ago.
“The glamour of old Detroit is now eclipsed by the grit of its underworld.”
I would like to thank NetGalley, Ruta Sepetys, and Ballantine Books/ Random House for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This story is set in Detroit and Grosse Pointe in 1927 and centers around the very wealthy Lennox family. In the automotive capital of the world, they’ve made their fortune in windshields and have become members of the Nouveau Riche.
Family dynamics range from bizarre to really bizarre, with three generations living in the magnificent Glen Arden estate. Secrets, lies, schemes, and crimes are plentiful. And of course there is a handsome, rich, reclusive bachelor who lives just down the road a ways.
Full of glitz, glamour, and humor, many important topics are also interwoven, including mental health, grief, decadence, trust, and changing societal norms. There is a lot of terrific information about the auto industry, prohibition, and Detroit and Grosse Pointe areas 100 years ago.
“The glamour of old Detroit is now eclipsed by the grit of its underworld.”
I would like to thank NetGalley, Ruta Sepetys, and Ballantine Books/ Random House for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 5, 2025
3.5
Major Ruta fan here and I’m so sad I didn’t love this more. Let me explain my rating without spoilers.
Loved the time period, it had a vibe of Great Gatsby but in Detroit, with big family money due to the automobile industry.
I enjoyed following our protagonist, Marjorie, as she navigates life, a young woman in her 20’s. The chapters rotate between her and her siblings.
A focus on the arts was interesting-but perhaps what made it falter for me?
A mixture of history with suspense that kept me wanting. The mystery aspect didn’t drop enough breadcrumbs for me.
Marjorie falls for a guy she meets once and can’t get him out of her mind. Seemed juvenile to me and not realistic.
It felt very slow. Not much happens until 70%, but once I got to that point it picked up and ended well. A lot of story development that took too long developing and not enough time for me to enjoy the story. It took forever for me to pick up where the story was going. That said, the chapters were short enough that it didn’t drag too much.
Loved the historical content once I knew it was historical in the authors note. I would have liked even more of the history.
If you’re a Ruta fan, you should read this, but it’s not as strong as her other works IMHO.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the gifted e-arc.
Major Ruta fan here and I’m so sad I didn’t love this more. Let me explain my rating without spoilers.
Loved the time period, it had a vibe of Great Gatsby but in Detroit, with big family money due to the automobile industry.
I enjoyed following our protagonist, Marjorie, as she navigates life, a young woman in her 20’s. The chapters rotate between her and her siblings.
A focus on the arts was interesting-but perhaps what made it falter for me?
A mixture of history with suspense that kept me wanting. The mystery aspect didn’t drop enough breadcrumbs for me.
Marjorie falls for a guy she meets once and can’t get him out of her mind. Seemed juvenile to me and not realistic.
It felt very slow. Not much happens until 70%, but once I got to that point it picked up and ended well. A lot of story development that took too long developing and not enough time for me to enjoy the story. It took forever for me to pick up where the story was going. That said, the chapters were short enough that it didn’t drag too much.
Loved the historical content once I knew it was historical in the authors note. I would have liked even more of the history.
If you’re a Ruta fan, you should read this, but it’s not as strong as her other works IMHO.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the gifted e-arc.
March 4, 2026
A Fortune of Sand by Rita Sepetys is a dazzling and dangerous glimpse into the lifestyle of Detroit, Michigan in 1927. Her debut adult novel is a haunting historical tale set during Prohibition, weaving together gangsters, jewel heists, automobile dynasties, and stories long forgotten.
At the center is Marjorie Lennox, a bubbly, aspiring fashion designer determined to forge her own path despite her father’s harsh expectations. As the truth-to-a-fault daughter of a windshield developer during the height of the automobile boom…she longs to prove to her eccentric family that she can succeed if she only follows her heart. For Marjorie, fashion is her heartbeat. Yet part of her heart also beats for a mysterious, reserved man she has spoken to only once.
With the help of her dashing, Yale-educated, boisterous brother Graham, and her melancholy, death-obsessed sister Chet, Marjorie secretly attends a women-only artistic residency in a Detroit Mansion — hosted by the very man her heart longs for.
While the residency starts as a dream opportunity for her, slowly things start to darken. Women disappear in the night. Strange sounds echo throughout the halls. Rules are strictly enforced, and Marjorie senses that there might be something sinister lurking behind this residency. As secrets start to unravel in the mansion, her family is starting to come apart at the seams, as the years of hidden secrets start to come to light. Marjorie must face truths that threaten her dreams and more importantly, her life.
Rita Sepetys skillfully transports you to the glamour and grit of the 1920’s. She captures the tension between wealth and corruption, ambition and loyalty. This novel is a must-read for those who seek richly detailed historical fiction that is seamlessly weaved with mystery, family drama, and the timeless strength of self-determination. Marjorie’s story will stay with you long after the final sentence. Thank you to Ballentine Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I loved this book and I will remember it for years to come.
At the center is Marjorie Lennox, a bubbly, aspiring fashion designer determined to forge her own path despite her father’s harsh expectations. As the truth-to-a-fault daughter of a windshield developer during the height of the automobile boom…she longs to prove to her eccentric family that she can succeed if she only follows her heart. For Marjorie, fashion is her heartbeat. Yet part of her heart also beats for a mysterious, reserved man she has spoken to only once.
With the help of her dashing, Yale-educated, boisterous brother Graham, and her melancholy, death-obsessed sister Chet, Marjorie secretly attends a women-only artistic residency in a Detroit Mansion — hosted by the very man her heart longs for.
While the residency starts as a dream opportunity for her, slowly things start to darken. Women disappear in the night. Strange sounds echo throughout the halls. Rules are strictly enforced, and Marjorie senses that there might be something sinister lurking behind this residency. As secrets start to unravel in the mansion, her family is starting to come apart at the seams, as the years of hidden secrets start to come to light. Marjorie must face truths that threaten her dreams and more importantly, her life.
Rita Sepetys skillfully transports you to the glamour and grit of the 1920’s. She captures the tension between wealth and corruption, ambition and loyalty. This novel is a must-read for those who seek richly detailed historical fiction that is seamlessly weaved with mystery, family drama, and the timeless strength of self-determination. Marjorie’s story will stay with you long after the final sentence. Thank you to Ballentine Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I loved this book and I will remember it for years to come.
March 31, 2026
4.5 stars!
Ruta strikes again! What a magnificent book. Thank you to Netgalley and Ballantine for the ARC. Ruta is my favorite writer, so it was a privilege to have early access.
I LOVED the plot. The mystery. I really felt the tension, and my curiosity was desperate. This book is very reminiscent of "Out of the Easy," which is my second favorite of Ruta's book, so this was right up my alley. It's not surrounding a big, flashy historical event like most of her books are, so it's got a very different vibe to it.
Marjorie is one of Ruta's best protagonists, and I'll say that with my full chest. She is vibrant, bubbly, fun, full of life, and her arc is fascinating. I love how she handles her situation, it was very satisfying. I also loved Graham. I love his sharp wit, and especially his dynamic with Chet. They're really funny together. I also LOVED Ivy and Bernice. Overall, such a colorful ensemble, really well-written. Even the odious characters, I still enjoyed reading them because they were really well done.
The dialogue is very fitting for the glamorous, Gatsby-like (there's even a dog named Daisy haha) setting the story is set in. I also love Bonafante and Marjorie's chemistry towards the end.
Overall, loved loved loved this book. It's criminal that one must wait a year or more for a Ruta Sepetys novel, but this one was well worth the wait. I rated it 4.5 stars for now just because I like to save my 5s, but this book definitely has potential to earn that extra .5 in the future.
Special shoutout to Granny. I strive to be like her when I'm old. What an icon.
#AFortuneofSand #NetGalley
Ruta strikes again! What a magnificent book. Thank you to Netgalley and Ballantine for the ARC. Ruta is my favorite writer, so it was a privilege to have early access.
I LOVED the plot. The mystery. I really felt the tension, and my curiosity was desperate. This book is very reminiscent of "Out of the Easy," which is my second favorite of Ruta's book, so this was right up my alley. It's not surrounding a big, flashy historical event like most of her books are, so it's got a very different vibe to it.
Marjorie is one of Ruta's best protagonists, and I'll say that with my full chest. She is vibrant, bubbly, fun, full of life, and her arc is fascinating. I love how she handles her situation, it was very satisfying. I also loved Graham. I love his sharp wit, and especially his dynamic with Chet. They're really funny together. I also LOVED Ivy and Bernice. Overall, such a colorful ensemble, really well-written. Even the odious characters, I still enjoyed reading them because they were really well done.
The dialogue is very fitting for the glamorous, Gatsby-like (there's even a dog named Daisy haha) setting the story is set in. I also love Bonafante and Marjorie's chemistry towards the end.
Overall, loved loved loved this book. It's criminal that one must wait a year or more for a Ruta Sepetys novel, but this one was well worth the wait. I rated it 4.5 stars for now just because I like to save my 5s, but this book definitely has potential to earn that extra .5 in the future.
Special shoutout to Granny. I strive to be like her when I'm old. What an icon.
#AFortuneofSand #NetGalley
Want to Read
November 22, 2025Can't wait!!!!!
February 21, 2026
Fast paced, with lots of Detroit references this former Livonia girl enjoyed. The late 1920’s & the Motor City … I enjoyed this thoroughly! Another Ruta Sepetys book I loved!
Thank you to Ballantine Books for this advanced reader’s edition! Get your copy on 6/2!
Thank you to Ballantine Books for this advanced reader’s edition! Get your copy on 6/2!
January 1, 2026
ARC provided via NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Publication date: June 2, 2026.
“A Fortune of Sand” is an atmospheric, ever-shifting historical novel that feels less like a single fixed story and more like a series of revealing character moments that gradually accumulate weight. Set against 1927 Detroit, the book captures an uncertain era shaped by ambition, wealth, performance, and the cost of progress.
Marjorie is written with warmth and complexity. She doesn’t always understand things immediately — and that delay feels intentional. Her growth comes from observation, lived experience, and emotional reckoning rather than quick realizations. Watching her piece things together gives the story its quiet momentum. When other characters are confronted by her presence, they often respond with unexpected vulnerability, seeking deeper connection in ways that feel authentic rather than tidy.
The narrative widens beyond Marjorie at times, giving space to her family and others, which enriches the emotional landscape and reinforces how interconnected personal choices and social expectations are. The story is constantly evolving, and while a few moments feel slightly forced, they are rare and never overpower the larger emotional truth.
Sepetys’ craft shines in the details — reflective chapter headings, period newspaper excerpts, and visual materials that ground the story in its historical moment. The acknowledgements and author’s note are especially thoughtful and add meaningful context to the work as a whole.
This is a layered, adult historical novel about perception, reputation, and the slow understanding of truth — one that lingers well beyond the final page.
“A Fortune of Sand” is an atmospheric, ever-shifting historical novel that feels less like a single fixed story and more like a series of revealing character moments that gradually accumulate weight. Set against 1927 Detroit, the book captures an uncertain era shaped by ambition, wealth, performance, and the cost of progress.
Marjorie is written with warmth and complexity. She doesn’t always understand things immediately — and that delay feels intentional. Her growth comes from observation, lived experience, and emotional reckoning rather than quick realizations. Watching her piece things together gives the story its quiet momentum. When other characters are confronted by her presence, they often respond with unexpected vulnerability, seeking deeper connection in ways that feel authentic rather than tidy.
The narrative widens beyond Marjorie at times, giving space to her family and others, which enriches the emotional landscape and reinforces how interconnected personal choices and social expectations are. The story is constantly evolving, and while a few moments feel slightly forced, they are rare and never overpower the larger emotional truth.
Sepetys’ craft shines in the details — reflective chapter headings, period newspaper excerpts, and visual materials that ground the story in its historical moment. The acknowledgements and author’s note are especially thoughtful and add meaningful context to the work as a whole.
This is a layered, adult historical novel about perception, reputation, and the slow understanding of truth — one that lingers well beyond the final page.
Want to Read
September 20, 2025"Set against the crumbling grandeur of 1920s Detroit and inspired by actual, long-buried historical events, A Fortune of Sand is a haunting mosaic of glamour and grift—a novel about those who vanish, and those who demand to be seen"
it's ruta sepetys, of course i'm reading it
it's ruta sepetys, of course i'm reading it
May 4, 2026
Ruta does it again 👏🏻 I swear every time I read one of her books I end up devouring the majority of it in a day!
Thank you so much to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for an ARC of A Fortune of Sand!
Vibes:
✨Gatsby-esque
✨Elite automotive family in 1920s Detroit
✨Artistic expression era
✨Prohibition and flapper era
✨Dirty money
✨Mystery man
✨Suspenseful twist
If I’m being honest, I kinda requested this blind because I love Ruta Sepetys and I totally forgot what the story was about before I started but WOW am I so glad I got to read this!
The banter between the Lennox siblings was what pulled me in from the beginning but the curiosity I had for Marjorie’s character and her mysterious artistic residency was what kept me interested! Up until the twist that I honestly wasn’t expecting 👏🏻 and what a good twist!! I know that Ruta always writes about times or issues in history that are important so I was really curious what she was going to focus on for this 1920s elite glamour-esque book!
Oh and can I just say “a fortune of sand” is the BEST title for this book!! I honestly thought that was so clever and brings the story full circle by the end of the book 🙂↕️
If you like Gatsby, the glitz and glam of the flapper era, secrets and lies of the rich elite and twisty stories… the 100% read A Fortune of Sand 💎
Thank you so much to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for an ARC of A Fortune of Sand!
Vibes:
✨Gatsby-esque
✨Elite automotive family in 1920s Detroit
✨Artistic expression era
✨Prohibition and flapper era
✨Dirty money
✨Mystery man
✨Suspenseful twist
If I’m being honest, I kinda requested this blind because I love Ruta Sepetys and I totally forgot what the story was about before I started but WOW am I so glad I got to read this!
The banter between the Lennox siblings was what pulled me in from the beginning but the curiosity I had for Marjorie’s character and her mysterious artistic residency was what kept me interested! Up until the twist that I honestly wasn’t expecting 👏🏻 and what a good twist!! I know that Ruta always writes about times or issues in history that are important so I was really curious what she was going to focus on for this 1920s elite glamour-esque book!
Oh and can I just say “a fortune of sand” is the BEST title for this book!! I honestly thought that was so clever and brings the story full circle by the end of the book 🙂↕️
If you like Gatsby, the glitz and glam of the flapper era, secrets and lies of the rich elite and twisty stories… the 100% read A Fortune of Sand 💎
March 26, 2026
I have never read a book by this author, but her YA historical fiction novels are quite popular. This is her adult debut and I was intrigued because it is a historical/mystery hybrid set in 1920s Detroit.
I was drawn into the story almost immediately, especially the segments following Marjorie attending her special arts program. The character of Dock was definitely creepy and the overall vibe of the program was strange. I had to keep turning the pages because I was so curious about the secrets that place was keeping.
The segments following Marjorie’s siblings I didn’t enjoy as much, though I liked learning more about them.
I will say that after some of the reveals, I found the pacing to be a little slower. I also felt like a lot of the reveals were very anticlimactic as well. Someone would mention something offhand that was a HUGE part of the story. This happened a couple of times and the effect was somewhat underwhelming. I also found the ending to be somewhat open and I could have used more answers.
However, the story was interesting (especially the mystery) and I absolutely flew through the book. I really liked Marjorie as a character, and I loved the side characters and Marjorie’s friendship with them.
I was drawn into the story almost immediately, especially the segments following Marjorie attending her special arts program. The character of Dock was definitely creepy and the overall vibe of the program was strange. I had to keep turning the pages because I was so curious about the secrets that place was keeping.
The segments following Marjorie’s siblings I didn’t enjoy as much, though I liked learning more about them.
I will say that after some of the reveals, I found the pacing to be a little slower. I also felt like a lot of the reveals were very anticlimactic as well. Someone would mention something offhand that was a HUGE part of the story. This happened a couple of times and the effect was somewhat underwhelming. I also found the ending to be somewhat open and I could have used more answers.
However, the story was interesting (especially the mystery) and I absolutely flew through the book. I really liked Marjorie as a character, and I loved the side characters and Marjorie’s friendship with them.
March 10, 2026
4.75 stars.
From the very first sentence, this book was both magical and mysterious. The mood of the book was beautifully conveyed with sinister and creepy vibes I could feel very thoroughly throughout. Marjorie and her siblings’ vibrant personalities and the charm of 1920s society also made the book such an enjoyable read. The characters were peculiar in a delightfully whimsical way, and I loved how they, especially Ivy and Bernice, were sophisticated yet quirky. The dialogue was probably one of the best parts of the novel, but I do feel that there were sections where description and/or backstory was dumped in a lengthy paragraph or two rather than distributed and interspersed more naturally throughout. However it was only really at the beginning and Ruta Sepetys’ writing makes up for it.
The dialogue was amazing and every sentence seemed to be told in the way that people would speak back then, but the plot initially wasn’t that intriguing to me because it didn’t have that emotion-piercing, heart wrenching aspect that some of Ruta Sepetys’ other books had. There wasn’t real pain, and so it didn’t hit me deeply like her other books did. It wasn’t quite as captivating at first, although I think that’s largely due to the time period this novel is set in, and the troubles Marjorie faces are very different than those surviving the horrors of war. Ruta Sepetys is one of my favorite authors in historical fiction, but this book just didn’t have that same style of hers I love so much, although it developed a unique style of its own that I began to love. But even if I wasn’t that interested in the plot for the first half, I still adored the interactions of the odd yet charming relationship between Graham and Chet, and Ruta’s writing was still done remarkably well. Despite the my somewhat lack of interest at the beginning, the clues kept me reading and wanting to find out more. This was a fairly fast read, and the writing was stunningly done.
All that said, this was certainly not what I was expecting, but it’s wonderful all the same. There was just enough romance that it had me on the edge of my seat waiting for more—and that first kiss was to DIE for. I adored the twist at the end, as well as the newspaper cutouts! It was such a brilliant and authentic way to reveal the truth about what happens and how all the secrets were revealed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the free eARC!
From the very first sentence, this book was both magical and mysterious. The mood of the book was beautifully conveyed with sinister and creepy vibes I could feel very thoroughly throughout. Marjorie and her siblings’ vibrant personalities and the charm of 1920s society also made the book such an enjoyable read. The characters were peculiar in a delightfully whimsical way, and I loved how they, especially Ivy and Bernice, were sophisticated yet quirky. The dialogue was probably one of the best parts of the novel, but I do feel that there were sections where description and/or backstory was dumped in a lengthy paragraph or two rather than distributed and interspersed more naturally throughout. However it was only really at the beginning and Ruta Sepetys’ writing makes up for it.
The dialogue was amazing and every sentence seemed to be told in the way that people would speak back then, but the plot initially wasn’t that intriguing to me because it didn’t have that emotion-piercing, heart wrenching aspect that some of Ruta Sepetys’ other books had. There wasn’t real pain, and so it didn’t hit me deeply like her other books did. It wasn’t quite as captivating at first, although I think that’s largely due to the time period this novel is set in, and the troubles Marjorie faces are very different than those surviving the horrors of war. Ruta Sepetys is one of my favorite authors in historical fiction, but this book just didn’t have that same style of hers I love so much, although it developed a unique style of its own that I began to love. But even if I wasn’t that interested in the plot for the first half, I still adored the interactions of the odd yet charming relationship between Graham and Chet, and Ruta’s writing was still done remarkably well. Despite the my somewhat lack of interest at the beginning, the clues kept me reading and wanting to find out more. This was a fairly fast read, and the writing was stunningly done.
All that said, this was certainly not what I was expecting, but it’s wonderful all the same. There was just enough romance that it had me on the edge of my seat waiting for more—and that first kiss was to DIE for. I adored the twist at the end, as well as the newspaper cutouts! It was such a brilliant and authentic way to reveal the truth about what happens and how all the secrets were revealed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the free eARC!
March 15, 2026
This was an unusual story with a lot going on. I wish there had been more closure— there should be a sequel!
Advanced reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
Advanced reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
Read
April 3, 2026ARC Review
I am so sad - normally Ruta Sepetys books are my fav but this was a miss for me. I think it took too long to get to the meat of the story and then it felt rushed with an incomplete ending
I am so sad - normally Ruta Sepetys books are my fav but this was a miss for me. I think it took too long to get to the meat of the story and then it felt rushed with an incomplete ending
March 30, 2026
Thank you to Goodreads and Penguin Random House for this arc.
I have read and loved every single book by Ruta Sepetys so I was ecstatic to receive an arc of her first adult novel.
A Fortune of Sand, set in Detroit in the 1920s, has a wonderful setting that sucks you in. With lots of glitz, glamor, and all of the things that are hidden behind the charming veneer, this book was a very fun read.
The characters were also very entertaining and unique. I thought Marjorie, Bernice, and Ivy’s relationship was especially fun and enjoyed their loyalty and love for one another. Ruta Sepetys nailed it with Marjorie especially, having her grow and find herself throughout the novel in a very satisfying way.
I didn’t rate this one five stars, as I have almost every single one of her books, because I felt as though some of the details regarding character relationships were thrown together a little messily. It doesn’t effect the experience of the book too much, but there were just enough details that felt like they came out of the blue and didn’t really make sense that I had to knock it down a star.
Even though this wasn’t my favorite Ruta Sepetys book, I still highly recommend reading it. Her writing style in all of her books immerses you from the first page and keeps you very engaged throughout the entire novel.
I have read and loved every single book by Ruta Sepetys so I was ecstatic to receive an arc of her first adult novel.
A Fortune of Sand, set in Detroit in the 1920s, has a wonderful setting that sucks you in. With lots of glitz, glamor, and all of the things that are hidden behind the charming veneer, this book was a very fun read.
The characters were also very entertaining and unique. I thought Marjorie, Bernice, and Ivy’s relationship was especially fun and enjoyed their loyalty and love for one another. Ruta Sepetys nailed it with Marjorie especially, having her grow and find herself throughout the novel in a very satisfying way.
I didn’t rate this one five stars, as I have almost every single one of her books, because I felt as though some of the details regarding character relationships were thrown together a little messily. It doesn’t effect the experience of the book too much, but there were just enough details that felt like they came out of the blue and didn’t really make sense that I had to knock it down a star.
Even though this wasn’t my favorite Ruta Sepetys book, I still highly recommend reading it. Her writing style in all of her books immerses you from the first page and keeps you very engaged throughout the entire novel.
Want to Read
November 6, 2025Oh I've BEEN waiting
Read
March 25, 2026Quick read! This was much less tragic than most of her other books , felt similar to Out of Easy in some ways but more dark and twisted.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
****Many thanks to Netgalley, Random House and Ballantine for an advanced eArc in exchange for my honest opinion****
3.5 Stars but I will actually round up for this one.
This is my first Ruta Sepetys book and I really didn't know what to expect with this one. The beginning starts off immediately and I was swept into the drama of the Lennox family. Their conversations are chaotic to say the least, sometimes I lost track of who was talking about what but it was humorous and I had to know more.
I didn't know if was Marjorie was getting haunted, I didn't know if this was her encountering a serial killer I didn't know if the gangs of Detroit were involved so when the twist came it was like the world tilted 180 degrees. I thought it was brilliant!
Marjorie was difficult to connect with at first, her naivety made her chapters eye roll worthy at times but that is why I loved her growth. Her "love at first sight" with Bonafante seemed like an infatuation but the more I saw them together the more I could get behind the two of them. Bernice in the first scene at his villa is THE MVP. I love the concern she had for Marjorie and created a hand signal for just in case. When Marjorie gets that slap in the face with reality it was satisfying but I also admired her reaction to all that information, she didn't break down, didn't crumble she got angry and went and demanded answers.
Bernice I loved as a friend for Marjorie, their scenes together were so funny and and I loved all their conversations. Ivy was... a character to be sure, underneath all the Christmas she really is a sweetheart. They really opened her eyes to the world and I loved the growth between them all.
Graham and Chet, Lilah and Gramps all had their secrets and I loved learning every. single. one. There really wasn't a character I didn't like besides the usual suspects of Dom, Cecile and Lou. The staff of Lennox house was also amusing, I found myself laughing at their comments!
The backdrop was STUNNING. I was fully immersed into 1927 Detroit and Grosse Point. Learning about the heists of replacing precious jewels with colored glass was super interesting, I love the little articles in the back of the book. It is sad but well known fact what happened to women that husbands or their family's thought didn't fit in. It was shocking that was a main point in this book and I thought it was really well done.
That ending had me smiling.
I can confidently say I will be going back and reading all of Ruta's books because I was enamored with this one.
3.5 Stars but I will actually round up for this one.
This is my first Ruta Sepetys book and I really didn't know what to expect with this one. The beginning starts off immediately and I was swept into the drama of the Lennox family. Their conversations are chaotic to say the least, sometimes I lost track of who was talking about what but it was humorous and I had to know more.
I didn't know if was Marjorie was getting haunted, I didn't know if this was her encountering a serial killer I didn't know if the gangs of Detroit were involved so when the twist came it was like the world tilted 180 degrees. I thought it was brilliant!
Marjorie was difficult to connect with at first, her naivety made her chapters eye roll worthy at times but that is why I loved her growth. Her "love at first sight" with Bonafante seemed like an infatuation but the more I saw them together the more I could get behind the two of them. Bernice in the first scene at his villa is THE MVP. I love the concern she had for Marjorie and created a hand signal for just in case. When Marjorie gets that slap in the face with reality it was satisfying but I also admired her reaction to all that information, she didn't break down, didn't crumble she got angry and went and demanded answers.
Bernice I loved as a friend for Marjorie, their scenes together were so funny and and I loved all their conversations. Ivy was... a character to be sure, underneath all the Christmas she really is a sweetheart. They really opened her eyes to the world and I loved the growth between them all.
Graham and Chet, Lilah and Gramps all had their secrets and I loved learning every. single. one. There really wasn't a character I didn't like besides the usual suspects of Dom, Cecile and Lou. The staff of Lennox house was also amusing, I found myself laughing at their comments!
The backdrop was STUNNING. I was fully immersed into 1927 Detroit and Grosse Point. Learning about the heists of replacing precious jewels with colored glass was super interesting, I love the little articles in the back of the book. It is sad but well known fact what happened to women that husbands or their family's thought didn't fit in. It was shocking that was a main point in this book and I thought it was really well done.
That ending had me smiling.
I can confidently say I will be going back and reading all of Ruta's books because I was enamored with this one.
April 30, 2026
Book #46 of 2026!
Three stars
Thank you to #NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the advanced digital copy of this book. It publishes May 26.
What to expect in this book:
-1920s Detroit setting
-Family secrets
-Based on true events
-Elements of mental health
-Era of Prohibition
Thoughts
Ruta Sepetys is one of my favorite historical fiction authors and I can always count on her for a brief glimpse into historical events that are not often discussed, or even known about by many! In her first adult novel, set in the 1920s in Detroit, the daughter of a powerful automobile tycoon escapes to an artist's retreat, where she learns that there is more to her family (and to the society that she was brought up in) than meets the eye. There are secrets, deceit, and blatant lies that allow this dynasty to stay afloat, but it may be crumbling down. This is a story of power, control, and the narratives that kept women's lives dependent on the men that sought to gain the most power from their weakness.
It took me over 60% of this story to even understand the undercurrent of themes happening within it. Once we got to the parts about the artist retreat and the connections between Marjorie and her fellow artists, as well as their backstories, I was very bored. While I do think that this story showcased a part of history that I was not familiar with (deceit and theft in this era in Detroit) I still do not ultimately feel like I gained much from it. I hate to say, but this is my least favorite book of hers. I loved I Must Betray You and Fountains of Silence SO much. I will continue to read this author's work, but ultimately this one was very forgettable for me.
Three stars
Thank you to #NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the advanced digital copy of this book. It publishes May 26.
What to expect in this book:
-1920s Detroit setting
-Family secrets
-Based on true events
-Elements of mental health
-Era of Prohibition
Thoughts
Ruta Sepetys is one of my favorite historical fiction authors and I can always count on her for a brief glimpse into historical events that are not often discussed, or even known about by many! In her first adult novel, set in the 1920s in Detroit, the daughter of a powerful automobile tycoon escapes to an artist's retreat, where she learns that there is more to her family (and to the society that she was brought up in) than meets the eye. There are secrets, deceit, and blatant lies that allow this dynasty to stay afloat, but it may be crumbling down. This is a story of power, control, and the narratives that kept women's lives dependent on the men that sought to gain the most power from their weakness.
It took me over 60% of this story to even understand the undercurrent of themes happening within it. Once we got to the parts about the artist retreat and the connections between Marjorie and her fellow artists, as well as their backstories, I was very bored. While I do think that this story showcased a part of history that I was not familiar with (deceit and theft in this era in Detroit) I still do not ultimately feel like I gained much from it. I hate to say, but this is my least favorite book of hers. I loved I Must Betray You and Fountains of Silence SO much. I will continue to read this author's work, but ultimately this one was very forgettable for me.
March 19, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for an ARC of A Fortune of Sand.
As a Ruta Sepetys fan, I was so excited to read her newest novel, especially since this is one was not YA like she usually writes. Like always, Sepetys delivered exactly what I was anticipating, a rich story rooted in history, likable characters, and an interesting and original plot line. Unlike her other stories that are centered around 1900s European history, this one takes place in 1920s Detroit, and it included all the glitz and glam you would hope from the time period: big lavish parties, upper class elites, art, and fashion.
Unlike her other novels that are strictly historical fiction, this one had an element of mystery to it that kept me reading. I really love Sepetys’s historical fiction novels, but the mystery reflected many of the same characteristics and themes that would be found in her historical fiction novels, making it still an entertaining read. This twist in her writing style made it enjoyable while still holding true to what makes Sepetys a truly remarkable writer.
Is it my favorite work by her? No, but I honestly still really liked it and am looking forward to recommending it to others upon its publication in May. Again, thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for an ARC of this book!
March 2, 2026
From the very first page to the final reveal, A Fortune of Sand proves that its title is anything but simple. It’s layered, symbolic, & beautifully reflective of a story built on wealth, illusion, & secrets that refuse to stay buried. Like sand, fortunes can shift — & in this novel, they certainly do.
One of the strongest elements of this book is its rich historical fiction backdrop. Set against the industrial pulse of Detroit in the 1920s, the story follows a powerful family known for their automotive windshield empire — a detail that grounds the novel in the grit & ambition of a booming city. The setting adds texture & authenticity, making the scandals feel even more real & immersive.
The novel also gives strong Great Gatsby vibes — from the lavish parties to the undercurrent of scandal simmering beneath polished wealth. There’s that same glittering surface of champagne, glamour, & high society, contrasted sharply with corruption, deception, & moral decay. The wealth dazzles, but it also blinds. Behind every elegant gathering is a secret waiting to unravel.
& what scandals they are. Jewel heists. Asylums. Blackmail. Murder — or at least the chilling implication of it. The plot is thick with crime & deception, yet what makes this novel especially impressive is that despite all the wrongdoing circling the family, no one is actively killed on the page. Still, the tension never falters. The stakes remain high, & the atmosphere stays heavy with suspense. It’s proof that psychological weight & moral corruption can be just as gripping as overt violence.
At the heart of it all is Marjorie — a standout protagonist. Though surrounded by privilege, secrecy, & moral decay, she refuses to let her family’s foolishness define her. Instead, she channels her ambition into her creative genius, determined to become a fashion designer. Her journey toward independence feels empowering & refreshing. She isn’t naïve, but she is hopeful — & that balance makes her compelling.
As Marjorie uncovers the darker truths about her family’s dealings, the emotional tension rises. Falling in love with the man of her dreams only complicates matters. She’s left facing a powerful dilemma: expose the corruption & risk everything, or protect the family name & walk away into a quieter, safer future. That moral crossroads is where the novel truly shines. It forces readers to question loyalty, integrity, & what we owe to the truth.
I commend Sepetys for crafting a story so layered & emotionally complex. Even with crime swirling in every corner, the narrative never feels sensationalized. Instead, it’s thoughtful, dramatic, & deeply human.
A Fortune of Sand is a sweeping tale of legacy, ambition, love, & the heavy cost of secrets. It’s historical fiction at its juiciest — rich in atmosphere, thick with intrigue, & impossible to put down. If you love stories where glamour masks scandal & truth threatens to shatter everything, this one absolutely delivers.
*I received an advance review copy for free & I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
#ThankGodForARCs
One of the strongest elements of this book is its rich historical fiction backdrop. Set against the industrial pulse of Detroit in the 1920s, the story follows a powerful family known for their automotive windshield empire — a detail that grounds the novel in the grit & ambition of a booming city. The setting adds texture & authenticity, making the scandals feel even more real & immersive.
The novel also gives strong Great Gatsby vibes — from the lavish parties to the undercurrent of scandal simmering beneath polished wealth. There’s that same glittering surface of champagne, glamour, & high society, contrasted sharply with corruption, deception, & moral decay. The wealth dazzles, but it also blinds. Behind every elegant gathering is a secret waiting to unravel.
& what scandals they are. Jewel heists. Asylums. Blackmail. Murder — or at least the chilling implication of it. The plot is thick with crime & deception, yet what makes this novel especially impressive is that despite all the wrongdoing circling the family, no one is actively killed on the page. Still, the tension never falters. The stakes remain high, & the atmosphere stays heavy with suspense. It’s proof that psychological weight & moral corruption can be just as gripping as overt violence.
At the heart of it all is Marjorie — a standout protagonist. Though surrounded by privilege, secrecy, & moral decay, she refuses to let her family’s foolishness define her. Instead, she channels her ambition into her creative genius, determined to become a fashion designer. Her journey toward independence feels empowering & refreshing. She isn’t naïve, but she is hopeful — & that balance makes her compelling.
As Marjorie uncovers the darker truths about her family’s dealings, the emotional tension rises. Falling in love with the man of her dreams only complicates matters. She’s left facing a powerful dilemma: expose the corruption & risk everything, or protect the family name & walk away into a quieter, safer future. That moral crossroads is where the novel truly shines. It forces readers to question loyalty, integrity, & what we owe to the truth.
I commend Sepetys for crafting a story so layered & emotionally complex. Even with crime swirling in every corner, the narrative never feels sensationalized. Instead, it’s thoughtful, dramatic, & deeply human.
A Fortune of Sand is a sweeping tale of legacy, ambition, love, & the heavy cost of secrets. It’s historical fiction at its juiciest — rich in atmosphere, thick with intrigue, & impossible to put down. If you love stories where glamour masks scandal & truth threatens to shatter everything, this one absolutely delivers.
*I received an advance review copy for free & I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
#ThankGodForARCs
December 9, 2025
I always enjoy this author’s books! The setting and plot of this one was excellent, I really felt like I was transported to Detroit in the 1920’s. There were some fun twists, but I wish there were more resolution at the end of the book. The author’s note at the end of the book was interesting as well. I’d recommend it! 8.25/10.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Ballantine for the advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Ballantine for the advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 26, 2026
Me in the beginning: I’m so confused, what’s happening?
Me halfway: Oh! I think I understand!
Me at the end: I’m confused again.
Not really in a bad way though. 🤣 Just a lot of rich people with dirty secrets and lies. Which is a VIBE that I LOVED. Also enjoyed that even though this isn’t a straight romance I got a morally grey hero hehe.
Thanks to Ballantine through NetGalley for the ARC!
Me halfway: Oh! I think I understand!
Me at the end: I’m confused again.
Not really in a bad way though. 🤣 Just a lot of rich people with dirty secrets and lies. Which is a VIBE that I LOVED. Also enjoyed that even though this isn’t a straight romance I got a morally grey hero hehe.
Thanks to Ballantine through NetGalley for the ARC!
December 5, 2025
3.5 stars for me. Although I have loved many of her books, this one was a bit of a disappointment for me...
April 20, 2026
So thankful to have have gotten an ARC for this book. The writing, the story, the characters…all magnificent. Truly one of my favorite authors.
November 18, 2025
Marjorie Lennox, her father’s least favored child in the complicated Lennox clan, leaves the Glen Arden estate for an artist residency in fashion design. Marjorie begins to find her own path until she is pulled back home after finding the truth of her residency, family and more.
This was an enjoyable read with great character development.
This was an enjoyable read with great character development.
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