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Das goldene Palais
Ein opulenter Roman über eine jüdische Bankiersfamilie, die nicht zufällig an die Rothschilds denken lässt. Eine packende Saga über Macht, Liebe und Familienbande
Wien, 1910. Die alte, über ganz Europa verteilte Familie Goldbaum hat ihren enormen Reichtum Bankgeschäften zu verdanken. Greta, das jüngste Kind, ist ein eigenwilliges Wesen. Ihr droht eine Ehe mit Albert, dem Spross des englischen Zweigs der Familie, von dem es heißt, er sei spröde und sauertöpfisch, noch dazu ein leidenschaftlicher Schmetterlingsjäger. Doch Greta beschließt, die Sache auf sich zukommen zu lassen – und tut gut daran.
Während das private Glück unverhofft über Greta hereinbricht, zeigen sich immer bedrohlicher die Vorboten eines großen kriegerischen Konflikts. Ein Konflikt, in den die Goldbaums als Teil der politischen Aristokratie und Finanziers von Waffengeschäften tief verstrickt sind …
Wien, 1910. Die alte, über ganz Europa verteilte Familie Goldbaum hat ihren enormen Reichtum Bankgeschäften zu verdanken. Greta, das jüngste Kind, ist ein eigenwilliges Wesen. Ihr droht eine Ehe mit Albert, dem Spross des englischen Zweigs der Familie, von dem es heißt, er sei spröde und sauertöpfisch, noch dazu ein leidenschaftlicher Schmetterlingsjäger. Doch Greta beschließt, die Sache auf sich zukommen zu lassen – und tut gut daran.
Während das private Glück unverhofft über Greta hereinbricht, zeigen sich immer bedrohlicher die Vorboten eines großen kriegerischen Konflikts. Ein Konflikt, in den die Goldbaums als Teil der politischen Aristokratie und Finanziers von Waffengeschäften tief verstrickt sind …
608 pages, Hardcover
First published May 3, 2018
398 people are currently reading
9267 people want to read
About the author
Natasha Solomons
12 books885 followersNatasha Solomons is a writer and the New York Times bestselling author of The Gallery of Vanished Husbands, The House at Tyneford, and Mr. Rosenblum Dreams in English. She lives in Dorset England, with her husband, the writer David Solomons, and their two young children. Song of Hartgrove Hall is her fourth novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 607 reviews
September 30, 2018
House of Gold is a sweeping saga of the Goldbaum family during World War One and the events leading up to the great war.
I am finding myself reading more and more historical fiction often for the actual history that is included in the books. Some of these authors have done extensive research on fashion, important families and, most importantly, the events of the era about which they are writing. Natasha Solomons' House of Gold is no exception. Based on the Rothschild family, the Goldbaums are one of, if not, the wealthiest families of Europe. They are the bankers, financiers and confidants of the most influential politicians and land owners. Specifically, House of Gold follows the branches of the family in Austria, Germany, France and England just prior to WW1. The story primarily is told by Greta, from Austria, and her brother Otto. Greta is married off to a distant cousin in England. As the assassination of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand occurs, the branches of the family are severed with the families in Eastern Europe cut off from those in the west.
In the first portion of the book, Solomons delves deep into the opulence of this wealthy family - their parties, their castles, their travels throughout Europe in their specially designed train car. Once Greta is settled into England, we then extensively learn about the elaborate gardens and greenhouses created by both Greta and her mother in law. These garden descriptions are, in fact, based on the Rothschild's famous gardens in Europe. Ultimately, however, the latter portion of the book covers the war and the division of the family. I was stunned at the great detail that Solomons took in her description of the war. I could read historical text after text and never quite get the emotional turmoil that she evokes with her recounting of these characters' fate during the war. This portion of the book, alone, is reason enough to read House of Gold.
Overall, I found House of the Gold to be one of the best books in this genre that I've read. The details are well researched, the character development amazing. However, as with all historical texts or fiction, the author will bring with them their own slant to the events that they are telling. This particular book really pushed home the rise of anti-Semitism and, unfortunately, not everything was historically accurate from that perspective. There was a lot of anti-Russian sentiment brought into play that really did not occur in Europe in WWI but was more a part of the post WW1 era and leading up to, of course, WWII. It's important to remember, always, that Russia was part of the western alliance during both world wars and suffered the greatest casualty count, greater even than that of France. This story would lead you to believe that Russia was the enemy to the west. Not so. I also did not realize before I read the book that it would be intricately tied to the Rothschild family. Call me a crazy American, and I am, but I truly despise that particular family and its global machinations. Every time I would begin to sympathize with one of the characters, I would pull myself back again because it's really the Rothschilds that are being described and I couldn't care less what their fate might have been and, in reality, I know the ultimate end result and their role in the world today. IF the book had solely dealt with a fictional affluent family and there had been no reference to the Rothschilds, I would have enjoyed the book to its fullest. Again, it's the crazy American in me and perhaps other people may not have a problem with this.
If you can read the book as a totally fictional account of a totally fictional family, then it is an amazing read. I did enjoy the book and I do recommend it, I just had to overlook a few elements in order to do so.
My thanks to Natasha Solomons, #Edelweiss and #GPPutnamsSons and #PenguinPublishingGroup for my copy of this fascinating tale.
I am finding myself reading more and more historical fiction often for the actual history that is included in the books. Some of these authors have done extensive research on fashion, important families and, most importantly, the events of the era about which they are writing. Natasha Solomons' House of Gold is no exception. Based on the Rothschild family, the Goldbaums are one of, if not, the wealthiest families of Europe. They are the bankers, financiers and confidants of the most influential politicians and land owners. Specifically, House of Gold follows the branches of the family in Austria, Germany, France and England just prior to WW1. The story primarily is told by Greta, from Austria, and her brother Otto. Greta is married off to a distant cousin in England. As the assassination of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand occurs, the branches of the family are severed with the families in Eastern Europe cut off from those in the west.
In the first portion of the book, Solomons delves deep into the opulence of this wealthy family - their parties, their castles, their travels throughout Europe in their specially designed train car. Once Greta is settled into England, we then extensively learn about the elaborate gardens and greenhouses created by both Greta and her mother in law. These garden descriptions are, in fact, based on the Rothschild's famous gardens in Europe. Ultimately, however, the latter portion of the book covers the war and the division of the family. I was stunned at the great detail that Solomons took in her description of the war. I could read historical text after text and never quite get the emotional turmoil that she evokes with her recounting of these characters' fate during the war. This portion of the book, alone, is reason enough to read House of Gold.
Overall, I found House of the Gold to be one of the best books in this genre that I've read. The details are well researched, the character development amazing. However, as with all historical texts or fiction, the author will bring with them their own slant to the events that they are telling. This particular book really pushed home the rise of anti-Semitism and, unfortunately, not everything was historically accurate from that perspective. There was a lot of anti-Russian sentiment brought into play that really did not occur in Europe in WWI but was more a part of the post WW1 era and leading up to, of course, WWII. It's important to remember, always, that Russia was part of the western alliance during both world wars and suffered the greatest casualty count, greater even than that of France. This story would lead you to believe that Russia was the enemy to the west. Not so. I also did not realize before I read the book that it would be intricately tied to the Rothschild family. Call me a crazy American, and I am, but I truly despise that particular family and its global machinations. Every time I would begin to sympathize with one of the characters, I would pull myself back again because it's really the Rothschilds that are being described and I couldn't care less what their fate might have been and, in reality, I know the ultimate end result and their role in the world today. IF the book had solely dealt with a fictional affluent family and there had been no reference to the Rothschilds, I would have enjoyed the book to its fullest. Again, it's the crazy American in me and perhaps other people may not have a problem with this.
If you can read the book as a totally fictional account of a totally fictional family, then it is an amazing read. I did enjoy the book and I do recommend it, I just had to overlook a few elements in order to do so.
My thanks to Natasha Solomons, #Edelweiss and #GPPutnamsSons and #PenguinPublishingGroup for my copy of this fascinating tale.
January 2, 2019
The Rothschilds were once one of the wealthiest Jewish families in Europe. They established themselves as one of the most prestigious international banking families in all of Europe and gained nobility in the United Kingdom and Holy Roman Empire.
When you think of the Rothschilds, you think of great wealth, extravagance, opulent wealth, grand palaces, vast art collections and philanthropy.
As the Weekly Register said, “The Rothschilds are the wonders of modern banking. We see the descendants of Judah, after a persecution of two thousand years, peering above kings, rising higher than emperors, and holding a whole continent in the hollow of their hands...”
With all of the good comes the bad and the Rothschilds were the subject of many conspiracy theories and intrigue. Historian Niall Ferguson said, “The Rothschilds had decided the outcome of the Napoleonic Wars by pulling their financial weight behind Britain...”
If the story of the Rothschilds sounds intriguing then Natasha Solomons book, House of Gold, is a must read.
Loosely based on the Rothschilds, Solomons introduces us to The Goldbaums, a wealthy European banking family.
The House of Goldbaums influence spans from Austria to the United Kingdom and while they wield incredible power with their wealth, they also find themselves frequent targets of antisemitism and persecution.
In order to keep the Goldbaum dynasty thriving, Greta Goldbaum, of Vienna, marries English cousin, Albert Goldbaum.
Feisty, spoiled and fiercely independent, Greta, now finds herself in an unfamiliar role, one that requires her to be an obedient, demure and subdued wife to her cousin, now husband, Albert Goldbaum.
Will Greta be everything that Albert needs in a wife? Will Greta find love with Albert? Will she find a way to bring life to the House of Goldbaum? And when lives and family are at stake, can Greta find a way to save them in the most dire of circumstances?
Solomons gives us a historical fiction of epic proportions. One that spans years and countries. We are treated to a book that is full of rich detail and historical accuracy. You will be transported back in time effortlessly and will savor Greta’s journey.
The only regret is that this book ended and left me wishing for more.
I received an advance copy of this book from #Netgalley #HouseofGold
When you think of the Rothschilds, you think of great wealth, extravagance, opulent wealth, grand palaces, vast art collections and philanthropy.
As the Weekly Register said, “The Rothschilds are the wonders of modern banking. We see the descendants of Judah, after a persecution of two thousand years, peering above kings, rising higher than emperors, and holding a whole continent in the hollow of their hands...”
With all of the good comes the bad and the Rothschilds were the subject of many conspiracy theories and intrigue. Historian Niall Ferguson said, “The Rothschilds had decided the outcome of the Napoleonic Wars by pulling their financial weight behind Britain...”
If the story of the Rothschilds sounds intriguing then Natasha Solomons book, House of Gold, is a must read.
Loosely based on the Rothschilds, Solomons introduces us to The Goldbaums, a wealthy European banking family.
The House of Goldbaums influence spans from Austria to the United Kingdom and while they wield incredible power with their wealth, they also find themselves frequent targets of antisemitism and persecution.
In order to keep the Goldbaum dynasty thriving, Greta Goldbaum, of Vienna, marries English cousin, Albert Goldbaum.
Feisty, spoiled and fiercely independent, Greta, now finds herself in an unfamiliar role, one that requires her to be an obedient, demure and subdued wife to her cousin, now husband, Albert Goldbaum.
Will Greta be everything that Albert needs in a wife? Will Greta find love with Albert? Will she find a way to bring life to the House of Goldbaum? And when lives and family are at stake, can Greta find a way to save them in the most dire of circumstances?
Solomons gives us a historical fiction of epic proportions. One that spans years and countries. We are treated to a book that is full of rich detail and historical accuracy. You will be transported back in time effortlessly and will savor Greta’s journey.
The only regret is that this book ended and left me wishing for more.
I received an advance copy of this book from #Netgalley #HouseofGold
September 5, 2018
The Goldbaum family has wealth and power throughout Europe but all of that could change with the rise of anti-Semitism. It's 1911 and an arranged marriage is set for Greta Goldbaum of Vienna and her distant cousin, Albert who is part of the Goldbaum family in England. But will Greta ever truly love her husband when they seem to have nothing in common? And will World War 1 tear the Goldbaum family apart?
I love family dramas. I love European historical fiction, and have read quite a few novels that take place during World War 1. But despite this book having elements I normally enjoy, the book just fell short of being anything but average. I think the author tried to cram in too much into the book and as a result the story suffered. The book bounced around between too many characters and had story lines that rather than contribute made it lack a clear focus. My overall reading experience was I enjoyed bits and pieces but as a whole I expected more.
Thank you to First to Read for the opportunity to read an advance digital copy! I was under no obligation to post a review and all views expressed are my honest opinion.
I love family dramas. I love European historical fiction, and have read quite a few novels that take place during World War 1. But despite this book having elements I normally enjoy, the book just fell short of being anything but average. I think the author tried to cram in too much into the book and as a result the story suffered. The book bounced around between too many characters and had story lines that rather than contribute made it lack a clear focus. My overall reading experience was I enjoyed bits and pieces but as a whole I expected more.
Thank you to First to Read for the opportunity to read an advance digital copy! I was under no obligation to post a review and all views expressed are my honest opinion.
January 2, 2019
The Rothschilds were once one of the wealthiest Jewish families in Europe. They established themselves as one of the most prestigious international banking families in all of Europe and gained nobility in the United Kingdom and Holy Roman Empire.
When you think of the Rothschilds, you think of great wealth, extravagance, opulent wealth, grand palaces, vast art collections and philanthropy.
As the Weekly Register said, “The Rothschilds are the wonders of modern banking. We see the descendants of Judah, after a persecution of two thousand years, peering above kings, rising higher than emperors, and holding a whole continent in the hollow of their hands...”
With all of the good comes the bad and the Rothschilds were the subject of many conspiracy theories and intrigue. Historian Niall Ferguson said, “The Rothschilds had decided the outcome of the Napoleonic Wars by pulling their financial weight behind Britain...”
If the story of the Rothschilds sounds intriguing then Natasha Solomons book, House of Gold, is a must read.
Loosely based on the Rothschilds, Solomons introduces us to The Goldbaums, a wealthy European banking family.
The House of Goldbaums influence spans from Austria to the United Kingdom and while they wield incredible power with their wealth, they also find themselves frequent targets of antisemitism and persecution.
In order to keep the Goldbaum dynasty thriving, Greta Goldbaum, of Vienna, marries English cousin, Albert Goldbaum.
Feisty, spoiled and fiercely independent, Greta, now finds herself in an unfamiliar role, one that requires her to be an obedient, demure and subdued wife to her cousin, now husband, Albert Goldbaum.
Will Greta be everything that Albert needs in a wife? Will Greta find love with Albert? Will she find a way to bring life to the House of Goldbaum? And when lives and family are at stake, can Greta find a way to save them in the most dire of circumstances?
Solomons gives us a historical fiction of epic proportions. One that spans years and countries. We are treated to a book that is full of rich detail and historical accuracy. You will be transported back in time effortlessly and will savor Greta’s journey.
The only regret is that this book ended and left me wishing for more.
I received an advance copy of this book from #Netgalley #HouseofGold
When you think of the Rothschilds, you think of great wealth, extravagance, opulent wealth, grand palaces, vast art collections and philanthropy.
As the Weekly Register said, “The Rothschilds are the wonders of modern banking. We see the descendants of Judah, after a persecution of two thousand years, peering above kings, rising higher than emperors, and holding a whole continent in the hollow of their hands...”
With all of the good comes the bad and the Rothschilds were the subject of many conspiracy theories and intrigue. Historian Niall Ferguson said, “The Rothschilds had decided the outcome of the Napoleonic Wars by pulling their financial weight behind Britain...”
If the story of the Rothschilds sounds intriguing then Natasha Solomons book, House of Gold, is a must read.
Loosely based on the Rothschilds, Solomons introduces us to The Goldbaums, a wealthy European banking family.
The House of Goldbaums influence spans from Austria to the United Kingdom and while they wield incredible power with their wealth, they also find themselves frequent targets of antisemitism and persecution.
In order to keep the Goldbaum dynasty thriving, Greta Goldbaum, of Vienna, marries English cousin, Albert Goldbaum.
Feisty, spoiled and fiercely independent, Greta, now finds herself in an unfamiliar role, one that requires her to be an obedient, demure and subdued wife to her cousin, now husband, Albert Goldbaum.
Will Greta be everything that Albert needs in a wife? Will Greta find love with Albert? Will she find a way to bring life to the House of Goldbaum? And when lives and family are at stake, can Greta find a way to save them in the most dire of circumstances?
Solomons gives us a historical fiction of epic proportions. One that spans years and countries. We are treated to a book that is full of rich detail and historical accuracy. You will be transported back in time effortlessly and will savor Greta’s journey.
The only regret is that this book ended and left me wishing for more.
I received an advance copy of this book from #Netgalley #HouseofGold
July 10, 2020
Review at 40% complete:
This book is overly long, but there is a lot to like too.
What I like:
The interweaving of historical events, especially the Titanic.
The descriptions of the trappings of the rich, especially The Goldbaum Trans‑Europe Express
The feistiness of Greta, the main female character
The inclusion of nature: Albert's insect collecting, Greta's garden
What I don't like:
Albert is a stick in the mud, but I'm pulling for him any way.
Clement's problems with money.
Why House of Gold as a title? Perhaps this excerpt can give a different slant to it. Fontmell Abbey is being built for Albert and Greta:
"In the easy light of an autumn afternoon the stonework of Fontmell Abbey was honeyed, softened by the thick wrists of an ancient wisteria and the last pink rosettes of a rambling rose. The crowning thatch glowed bright gold like ripened corn..."
I will undoubtedly add to this review as I am only 40% complete with this book.
It will probably be a 4 star in the final analysis, that is, IF I can get to the end.
Update at 100%:
The Goldbaums are rich because they are in the banking business. They loan money to governments that need it. There are three 'tribes' of Goldbaums: Austrian, French and English. Greta of the Austrian persuasion marries Albert of London. This is what the Goldbaums do; intermarry to keep the dynasty going.
But can money buy...
• A happy marriage
• Common sense
• Survival during war?
The story encompasses the time period of 1910 through 1918. Greta moves to England. WWI breaks out. Her brother is sent to fight for Austria, which, you will probably remember, is the enemy of England. Greta is shunned by her English neighbors. Albert and Greta have 2 children: Celia and Benjamin. As mentioned above, Albert collects insects, Greta gardens. Oh, did I mention that the Goldbaums are Jewish? They are embraced for their money but avoided because of their beliefs.
I found myself getting more and more involved with the principal characters: Albert, Greta and Otto. When I came to the inevitable conclusion of this story, tears dripped down my cheeks.
So, dear friends, the unthinkable happened. That book I did not think I could finish and hoped would stay at least a 4 star became a 5 star.
I heartily recommend this book to historical fiction and history lovers.
5 star
This book is overly long, but there is a lot to like too.
What I like:
The interweaving of historical events, especially the Titanic.
The descriptions of the trappings of the rich, especially The Goldbaum Trans‑Europe Express
The feistiness of Greta, the main female character
The inclusion of nature: Albert's insect collecting, Greta's garden
What I don't like:
Albert is a stick in the mud, but I'm pulling for him any way.
Clement's problems with money.
Why House of Gold as a title? Perhaps this excerpt can give a different slant to it. Fontmell Abbey is being built for Albert and Greta:
"In the easy light of an autumn afternoon the stonework of Fontmell Abbey was honeyed, softened by the thick wrists of an ancient wisteria and the last pink rosettes of a rambling rose. The crowning thatch glowed bright gold like ripened corn..."
I will undoubtedly add to this review as I am only 40% complete with this book.
It will probably be a 4 star in the final analysis, that is, IF I can get to the end.
Update at 100%:
The Goldbaums are rich because they are in the banking business. They loan money to governments that need it. There are three 'tribes' of Goldbaums: Austrian, French and English. Greta of the Austrian persuasion marries Albert of London. This is what the Goldbaums do; intermarry to keep the dynasty going.
But can money buy...
• A happy marriage
• Common sense
• Survival during war?
The story encompasses the time period of 1910 through 1918. Greta moves to England. WWI breaks out. Her brother is sent to fight for Austria, which, you will probably remember, is the enemy of England. Greta is shunned by her English neighbors. Albert and Greta have 2 children: Celia and Benjamin. As mentioned above, Albert collects insects, Greta gardens. Oh, did I mention that the Goldbaums are Jewish? They are embraced for their money but avoided because of their beliefs.
I found myself getting more and more involved with the principal characters: Albert, Greta and Otto. When I came to the inevitable conclusion of this story, tears dripped down my cheeks.
So, dear friends, the unthinkable happened. That book I did not think I could finish and hoped would stay at least a 4 star became a 5 star.
I heartily recommend this book to historical fiction and history lovers.
5 star
October 22, 2018
Greta had been a handful since birth with her governesses explaining that if she had been anything but a Goldbaum, she would be out on the street.
The Goldbaums always married distant cousins to keep the name, their power, and their wealth secure.
Greta was to marry her second cousin from London whom she never met, but she was fine with it because she was hoping this would take her away from her daunting mother and all her rules about proper behavior.
As I was reading, it seemed as if I were living in a fairy tale. Every whim and want was satisfied for Greta and her family. The description of the mansions was unbelievable, and I laughed when one of the servants confessed she needed a map to navigate the home.
The writing style and the detail Ms. Solomons uses draws you into the story even though some of it is filled with politics and business dealings. She adds enough family drama and interest of the era to keep you reading, but it did get tedious at times.
The characters were definitely depicted as true to this era and class, and they grew on you as you read. Some you grew to like and others you grew to wonder why they acted as they did.
If you enjoy reading about aristocrats, politics, European history in the late 1800's/early1900's, war, and the non-public side of the wealthy, HOUSE OF GOLD will be of interest.
The book was well written, but was a bit long. The characters - especially Greta - made the book. She was a feisty, strong woman. 4/5
This book was given to me as an ARC by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 3, 2018
House of Gold is a sweeping family drama that follows the fictional Goldbaum family in the years leading up to and during WWI. I read a lot of historical fiction, but I've read very little set in this particular time period, so I was excited to get into this book. Greta, a member of the Austrian branch of the Goldbaum family, is the main focus, although the novel does delve into the perspectives of other people in her life. The cast of characters was one of the main strengths of the novel, and it was a very character-driven narrative.
Greta is gregarious and free-spirited. She is getting ready to marry Albert, a distant cousin and a member of the English branch of the family when we join her story. (Goldbaum family tradition involves intermarrying to keep their vast wealth within the family.) Greta has never met Albert when her marriage with him is arranged by the family and feels extremely ambivalent about the pairing. She doesn't want to marry a stranger but is afraid of going against her family's wishes.
While I was very invested in Greta and her story, the pacing took away some of my enjoyment of this novel. The way Solomons dabbled into the stories of other relatives occasionally made the story feel somewhat unfocused. The aside about Greta's cousin's gambling debts, for example, did not add much to the story. (It did move the story forward as a plot point, but it was not necessary to go into his perspective to do this.) These sections really just felt like they bogged down the pace. We have no reason to care about this character as he is a relatively minor one, so his obviously impending breaking point doesn't actually introduce any tension to the story.
Conversely, other parts of the story seem to be entirely skipped over. Greta is pregnant with her first child and the next thing I knew, she was in labor with her second. Aside from just skipping over a big chunk of time, it pains me to think of the character development that could have been explored in that time frame. Greta is young and a bit flighty when we meet her. She is deeply changed by the war and by motherhood, but we don't get to see any of those changes happening; we simply skip over from young, newlywed Greta to Greta as a mother of two.
Greta's brother Otto is also a major character, although he is largely separate from her throughout the story. His story largely focuses on the war and some very interesting power dynamics come into play in this context. The Goldbaum family is rich beyond measure, but also Jewish in a time of rising antisemitism. The concept of wealth countering relatively little social privilege as well as instances in which it cannot do so play a large role throughout the novel. Otto's story, despite his wealthy background, is ultimately tragic.
Overall, I enjoyed House of Gold despite my misgivings about the pacing. I became very invested in some of the characters, I liked the importance of the family's Jewish identity in the novel, and the family's personal affairs were balanced well with what was happening on a worldwide scale. Readers who enjoy family dramas and historical fiction set during war time may find this a worthwhile read.
My thanks to Netgalley and G.P. Putman's Sons for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and are not influenced by the publisher.
You can read all of my reviews at my blog, Jenna Bookish!
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Greta is gregarious and free-spirited. She is getting ready to marry Albert, a distant cousin and a member of the English branch of the family when we join her story. (Goldbaum family tradition involves intermarrying to keep their vast wealth within the family.) Greta has never met Albert when her marriage with him is arranged by the family and feels extremely ambivalent about the pairing. She doesn't want to marry a stranger but is afraid of going against her family's wishes.
While I was very invested in Greta and her story, the pacing took away some of my enjoyment of this novel. The way Solomons dabbled into the stories of other relatives occasionally made the story feel somewhat unfocused. The aside about Greta's cousin's gambling debts, for example, did not add much to the story. (It did move the story forward as a plot point, but it was not necessary to go into his perspective to do this.) These sections really just felt like they bogged down the pace. We have no reason to care about this character as he is a relatively minor one, so his obviously impending breaking point doesn't actually introduce any tension to the story.
Conversely, other parts of the story seem to be entirely skipped over. Greta is pregnant with her first child and the next thing I knew, she was in labor with her second. Aside from just skipping over a big chunk of time, it pains me to think of the character development that could have been explored in that time frame. Greta is young and a bit flighty when we meet her. She is deeply changed by the war and by motherhood, but we don't get to see any of those changes happening; we simply skip over from young, newlywed Greta to Greta as a mother of two.
Greta's brother Otto is also a major character, although he is largely separate from her throughout the story. His story largely focuses on the war and some very interesting power dynamics come into play in this context. The Goldbaum family is rich beyond measure, but also Jewish in a time of rising antisemitism. The concept of wealth countering relatively little social privilege as well as instances in which it cannot do so play a large role throughout the novel. Otto's story, despite his wealthy background, is ultimately tragic.
Overall, I enjoyed House of Gold despite my misgivings about the pacing. I became very invested in some of the characters, I liked the importance of the family's Jewish identity in the novel, and the family's personal affairs were balanced well with what was happening on a worldwide scale. Readers who enjoy family dramas and historical fiction set during war time may find this a worthwhile read.
My thanks to Netgalley and G.P. Putman's Sons for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and are not influenced by the publisher.
You can read all of my reviews at my blog, Jenna Bookish!
Facebook | Instagram | Tumblr
October 21, 2018
3.5 stars
I like historical fiction and this time around WWI is very interesting. This is the story of the wealthy Goldbaum family based on the Rothschild family. There were five boys who set up five different banking houses in England, France, Germany and Austria. They keep tight ties and marry the offspring of the other houses. They are courted by governments and yet ostracized at the same time because they are Jewish.
Greta Goldbaum of Austria marries Albert of the English house keeping family tradition alive and well. Although it is arranged marriage, they develop a happy marriage. Then WWI strikes and the young men in the different banking houses had very different war experiences. All served in the military and yet also worked on financing the war. Still they are often treated as outcasts and mocked for their faith.
There was an interesting section when the Tsar of Russia wants money and the Goldbaums bargain for the end of the pogroms in exchange for it.
Still it got a little choppy. One minute Greta has a miscarriage and the next chapter has a 3 year old daughter and a new baby boy. There was not much transition. Another character was on a ship that had been bombed. He was treading water and then went under. A few pages later he was walking into his home. How did he get saved? No explanation is given.
The Goldbaum children complained a lot about their privileged lifestyle and how everything was prescribed for them but I noticed no one gave up anything to strike out on their own. I guess it wasn't as bad as they thought.
I thought it was an interesting book that needed some good editing. The transitions were jumpy and I think a good copy editor would have been a big help. I am not sure the book industry employs them anymore.
Thank you for a copy of this book NetGalley.
I like historical fiction and this time around WWI is very interesting. This is the story of the wealthy Goldbaum family based on the Rothschild family. There were five boys who set up five different banking houses in England, France, Germany and Austria. They keep tight ties and marry the offspring of the other houses. They are courted by governments and yet ostracized at the same time because they are Jewish.
Greta Goldbaum of Austria marries Albert of the English house keeping family tradition alive and well. Although it is arranged marriage, they develop a happy marriage. Then WWI strikes and the young men in the different banking houses had very different war experiences. All served in the military and yet also worked on financing the war. Still they are often treated as outcasts and mocked for their faith.
There was an interesting section when the Tsar of Russia wants money and the Goldbaums bargain for the end of the pogroms in exchange for it.
Still it got a little choppy. One minute Greta has a miscarriage and the next chapter has a 3 year old daughter and a new baby boy. There was not much transition. Another character was on a ship that had been bombed. He was treading water and then went under. A few pages later he was walking into his home. How did he get saved? No explanation is given.
The Goldbaum children complained a lot about their privileged lifestyle and how everything was prescribed for them but I noticed no one gave up anything to strike out on their own. I guess it wasn't as bad as they thought.
I thought it was an interesting book that needed some good editing. The transitions were jumpy and I think a good copy editor would have been a big help. I am not sure the book industry employs them anymore.
Thank you for a copy of this book NetGalley.
July 5, 2021
"Si diceva che i Goldbaum fossero così ricchi e potenti che nelle giornate uggiose noleggiavano il sole perché brillasse per loro."
Questo dice tanto sui protagonisti di questo romanzo ironico, fresco e frizzante. Nella Vienna del 1911, Greta, come da tradizione dei Goldbaum, si appresta a sposare il cugino Albert e a trasferirsi in Inghilterra. A Temple Court, Greta si sente un'estranea e ben presto fra i due neo sposi, si instaura una gelida atmosfera e una sottile antipatia. La suocera, Lady Goldbaum, decide così di regalare alla nuora un centinaio di acri di terra perché ne faccia un giardino, per sentirsi più libera e meno costretta. Nel frattempo scoppia la Prima Guerra Mondiale e i Goldbaum, che sono sempre riusciti a rimanere dietro le quinte, ora si trovano su fronti opposti: Greta dovrà decidere fra la sua famiglia in Austria o la sua nuova famiglia in Inghilterra.
Questo è un romanzo potente, non difficile ma molto intenso. Il racconto si una famiglia che si trova sparsa per tutto il vecchio continente e che mette da una parte Greta e Albert, e il loro matrimonio combinato, dall'altra la condizione degli ebrei a inizio '900, che già erano additati come avari e arrivista e quindi, discriminati. Greta è la grande protagonista di questo romanzo, con uno spirito anticonformista, è sempre alla ricerca del cambiamento, per migliorare e autorealizzarsi. Un romanzo molto efficace soprattutto nella descrizione dei personaggi: le donne sono custodi dei rituali e delle procedure per le future generazioni, gli uomini sono i padroni del mondo in cui vivono e lavorano. Con una scrittura ricca di particolari, che permette al lettore di affezionarsi ai protagonisti.
Ve lo consiglio se amate gli storici, ma anche se amate le storie con protagoniste forti.
Questo dice tanto sui protagonisti di questo romanzo ironico, fresco e frizzante. Nella Vienna del 1911, Greta, come da tradizione dei Goldbaum, si appresta a sposare il cugino Albert e a trasferirsi in Inghilterra. A Temple Court, Greta si sente un'estranea e ben presto fra i due neo sposi, si instaura una gelida atmosfera e una sottile antipatia. La suocera, Lady Goldbaum, decide così di regalare alla nuora un centinaio di acri di terra perché ne faccia un giardino, per sentirsi più libera e meno costretta. Nel frattempo scoppia la Prima Guerra Mondiale e i Goldbaum, che sono sempre riusciti a rimanere dietro le quinte, ora si trovano su fronti opposti: Greta dovrà decidere fra la sua famiglia in Austria o la sua nuova famiglia in Inghilterra.
Questo è un romanzo potente, non difficile ma molto intenso. Il racconto si una famiglia che si trova sparsa per tutto il vecchio continente e che mette da una parte Greta e Albert, e il loro matrimonio combinato, dall'altra la condizione degli ebrei a inizio '900, che già erano additati come avari e arrivista e quindi, discriminati. Greta è la grande protagonista di questo romanzo, con uno spirito anticonformista, è sempre alla ricerca del cambiamento, per migliorare e autorealizzarsi. Un romanzo molto efficace soprattutto nella descrizione dei personaggi: le donne sono custodi dei rituali e delle procedure per le future generazioni, gli uomini sono i padroni del mondo in cui vivono e lavorano. Con una scrittura ricca di particolari, che permette al lettore di affezionarsi ai protagonisti.
Ve lo consiglio se amate gli storici, ma anche se amate le storie con protagoniste forti.
March 31, 2019
Perché ho perso tempo a leggerlo ????
Alcuni passi a caso che mi hanno irritato :
la democrazia dei Goldbaum :
"fece richiamare il cuoco dalla sua vacanza in Tirolo e lo convocò nelle cucine dell’hotel...."
contento il cuoco...
I problemi di Lady Goldbaum mentre il resto della popolazione viveva nella povertà :
"Lady Goldbaum era immensamente irritata. Una terribile grandinata aveva fatto scempio delle piantine più tenere del vivaio."
Il fratello è in guerra ( la Prima ) al fronte
" Greta ordinò un pacco viveri. Fortnum’s ne preparava diversi da mandare ai soldati. Alcuni erano poco indicati, potevano conservarsi un paio di giorni al massimo, il tempo necessario per raggiungere la Francia, e contenevano salmone affumicato, mele e torte. Ne scelse invece uno con scatolette di foie gras, zuppa d’aragosta e caviale, barattoli di marmellata d’arancia, mezza libbra di tè, mezza libbra di cacao e una scatola di biscotti."
Poi nella lettera che acclude inserirà dei semi di varie piante e pensa ,mentre lui è prigioniero dei russi :
«Gli scriverò una lettera per spiegargli bene come coltivare e far seccare ogni pianta».
Ma per piacere , ritorniamo sulla terra !
Non occorrono altri commenti credo.
Alcuni passi a caso che mi hanno irritato :
la democrazia dei Goldbaum :
"fece richiamare il cuoco dalla sua vacanza in Tirolo e lo convocò nelle cucine dell’hotel...."
contento il cuoco...
I problemi di Lady Goldbaum mentre il resto della popolazione viveva nella povertà :
"Lady Goldbaum era immensamente irritata. Una terribile grandinata aveva fatto scempio delle piantine più tenere del vivaio."
Il fratello è in guerra ( la Prima ) al fronte
" Greta ordinò un pacco viveri. Fortnum’s ne preparava diversi da mandare ai soldati. Alcuni erano poco indicati, potevano conservarsi un paio di giorni al massimo, il tempo necessario per raggiungere la Francia, e contenevano salmone affumicato, mele e torte. Ne scelse invece uno con scatolette di foie gras, zuppa d’aragosta e caviale, barattoli di marmellata d’arancia, mezza libbra di tè, mezza libbra di cacao e una scatola di biscotti."
Poi nella lettera che acclude inserirà dei semi di varie piante e pensa ,mentre lui è prigioniero dei russi :
«Gli scriverò una lettera per spiegargli bene come coltivare e far seccare ogni pianta».
Ma per piacere , ritorniamo sulla terra !
Non occorrono altri commenti credo.
February 22, 2019
Era tanto che non leggevo una saga familiare cosi' ben scritta, fluida, interessante, mai banale ne' noiosa, con dei momenti di una tenerezza infinita: uno di quei libri dove mentre leggi tu sei li' con loro (pochi scrittori hanno questa capacita' di farmi sentire "dentro" il libro).
Il finale mi ha un po' lasciata perplessa (la scrittrice ha voluto darci un lieto fine che visto il periodo e la situazione ho reputato abbastanza improbabile) ma cio' nonostante la Solomons si merita tutte e cinque le stelle, considerato che di solito i libri che contengono storie d'amore mi annoiano a morte in quanto prima o dopo scadono tutti in piccoli Harmony.
Invece la scrittrice riesce sempre a bilanciare perfettamente il rapporto fra Greta ed Albert con i rapporti familiari, la politica, la guerra ed i problemi sociali dell'inizio del secolo.
Ho detestato cordialmente il personaggio di Greta, quella che ai miei tempi si sarebbe definita una "radical chic" o come dicono qui una "spoilt brat": ragazza viziata che gioca a fare la ribelle, mentre il personaggio che piu' ho amato e' stato Otto, protagonista di alcune delle pagine piu' belle di tutto il libro.
Consigliatissimo.
Il finale mi ha un po' lasciata perplessa (la scrittrice ha voluto darci un lieto fine che visto il periodo e la situazione ho reputato abbastanza improbabile) ma cio' nonostante la Solomons si merita tutte e cinque le stelle, considerato che di solito i libri che contengono storie d'amore mi annoiano a morte in quanto prima o dopo scadono tutti in piccoli Harmony.
Invece la scrittrice riesce sempre a bilanciare perfettamente il rapporto fra Greta ed Albert con i rapporti familiari, la politica, la guerra ed i problemi sociali dell'inizio del secolo.
Ho detestato cordialmente il personaggio di Greta, quella che ai miei tempi si sarebbe definita una "radical chic" o come dicono qui una "spoilt brat": ragazza viziata che gioca a fare la ribelle, mentre il personaggio che piu' ho amato e' stato Otto, protagonista di alcune delle pagine piu' belle di tutto il libro.
Consigliatissimo.
May 21, 2020
The immense wealth and influence of the fabled Rothschild dynasty have always fascinated me. Of Jewish faith and in midst of the rabid Antisemitism rife in Europe, this enterprising family amassed an unparalleled fortune, counseled governments, and often played a vital role in the course of nations, all while maintaining an elusive, discreet facade.
In her novel HOUSE OF GOLD, author Natasha Solomons fictionalizes the Rothschild family during the years leading to WWI. Her central figure is Greta, pampered and rebellious daughter of the Austrian branch of the Goldbaum banking dynasty, who submits to the traditional arranged marriage with another branch of the family; in her case, her distant British cousin, Albert. Greta is feisty yet naive, and her move abroad to live with her taciturn, insect-obsessed spouse will test her resolve. She discovers escape in designing a home and splendid garden bequeathed by her sensible German mother-in-law, who has long since navigated the sacrifices of her own arranged marriage to Albert's father. But Albert has a hidden passionate side that Greta is determined to reveal, and her garden becomes the means through which they can discover each other. As she embarks on her quest to find fulfillment, the forces that unleash the calamity of war start to gather on the horizon.
The novel features a cast of well-drawn characters, such as Greta's vivacious French cousin Henri, caught up in an illicit affair with an unstable gentile woman, and her brother, Otto, whose personal ambitions are stymied by duty. As the story unfolds, we enter into the boardrooms and drawing rooms of an elite clan whose ties of blood are sacrosanct, bound even tighter by the prejudice against Jews not even they can fully evade. Solomons fills her tale with details of a lifestyle and era we'll not see again, including menus and decor, and the various plants that flourish in Greta's English garden. Though this attention to detail may overwhelm a less patient reader, I found it lovely and meaningful, a deliberate conjuring of luxury that has inured the Goldbaums to the unsavory aspects of life yet cannot shield them from the horrors of global conflict. When war finally erupts, they're all taken by surprise, each challenged to their core as their cultivated lives are torn asunder. What comes after will forever change and define them.
The novel's pacing can be languid, as befits the era, but Solomons weaves an enchanting and irresistible spell in her homage to a legendary Jewish dynasty that persevered despite all odds.
In her novel HOUSE OF GOLD, author Natasha Solomons fictionalizes the Rothschild family during the years leading to WWI. Her central figure is Greta, pampered and rebellious daughter of the Austrian branch of the Goldbaum banking dynasty, who submits to the traditional arranged marriage with another branch of the family; in her case, her distant British cousin, Albert. Greta is feisty yet naive, and her move abroad to live with her taciturn, insect-obsessed spouse will test her resolve. She discovers escape in designing a home and splendid garden bequeathed by her sensible German mother-in-law, who has long since navigated the sacrifices of her own arranged marriage to Albert's father. But Albert has a hidden passionate side that Greta is determined to reveal, and her garden becomes the means through which they can discover each other. As she embarks on her quest to find fulfillment, the forces that unleash the calamity of war start to gather on the horizon.
The novel features a cast of well-drawn characters, such as Greta's vivacious French cousin Henri, caught up in an illicit affair with an unstable gentile woman, and her brother, Otto, whose personal ambitions are stymied by duty. As the story unfolds, we enter into the boardrooms and drawing rooms of an elite clan whose ties of blood are sacrosanct, bound even tighter by the prejudice against Jews not even they can fully evade. Solomons fills her tale with details of a lifestyle and era we'll not see again, including menus and decor, and the various plants that flourish in Greta's English garden. Though this attention to detail may overwhelm a less patient reader, I found it lovely and meaningful, a deliberate conjuring of luxury that has inured the Goldbaums to the unsavory aspects of life yet cannot shield them from the horrors of global conflict. When war finally erupts, they're all taken by surprise, each challenged to their core as their cultivated lives are torn asunder. What comes after will forever change and define them.
The novel's pacing can be languid, as befits the era, but Solomons weaves an enchanting and irresistible spell in her homage to a legendary Jewish dynasty that persevered despite all odds.
December 27, 2020
Quando epopee familiari si intrecciano a scenari storici ed economici con un buon condimento di tematiche sulla crescita personale, sulle cause sociali e sulle relazioni ambivalente, ecco, è proprio il libro per me. Se poi è scritto bene, ne sono deliziata!
October 24, 2018
The Goldbaums in this story are loosely based on the Rothschilds, once the wealthiest family in Europe and the world.
The story starts in Vienna, 1911, with the most influential family of its time.
Greta Goldbaum is told she is to be married to her cousin Albert in England.
While on her way to London, she stops in Paris. There she meets Emilie Floge, an Austrian fashion designer and a life companion of the painter Gustav Klimt. Emilie’s designs are bold and way ahead of her time. But this is what gives Greta wings. She realizes that she didn’t have a say in her marriage, but she wants to take control of her decisions.
Once in England, her marriage has a rocky start. What gives her consolation is designing a 100 acre garden.
All this is set against brewing antisemitism in Russia.
1914, Austrian crown prince is shot by Serbian rebel group, which leads to WWI.
As war shows its priorities even in hospitals, wounded soldiers over unmarried mothers, Greta sees the limited options for unmarried mothers and tries to find a way to help them by extending gardening program to them.
The story starts fairly interesting. But it is too drawn out and as a result half way through I slowly started losing interest in the story. At 70% of the book, I just couldn’t wait to be over with it.
What made the story interesting for me was injection of such facts as the background of rising antisemitism and the fate of unmarried women, and introduction of such fashion icon as Emilie Floge even if for a brief moment. But all those facts made the story progressing forward.
What made the story disengaging was the family drama. At those points the story was stagnant.
@FB/BestHistoricalFiction
https://bestinhistoricalfiction.blogs...
The story starts in Vienna, 1911, with the most influential family of its time.
Greta Goldbaum is told she is to be married to her cousin Albert in England.
While on her way to London, she stops in Paris. There she meets Emilie Floge, an Austrian fashion designer and a life companion of the painter Gustav Klimt. Emilie’s designs are bold and way ahead of her time. But this is what gives Greta wings. She realizes that she didn’t have a say in her marriage, but she wants to take control of her decisions.
Once in England, her marriage has a rocky start. What gives her consolation is designing a 100 acre garden.
All this is set against brewing antisemitism in Russia.
1914, Austrian crown prince is shot by Serbian rebel group, which leads to WWI.
As war shows its priorities even in hospitals, wounded soldiers over unmarried mothers, Greta sees the limited options for unmarried mothers and tries to find a way to help them by extending gardening program to them.
The story starts fairly interesting. But it is too drawn out and as a result half way through I slowly started losing interest in the story. At 70% of the book, I just couldn’t wait to be over with it.
What made the story interesting for me was injection of such facts as the background of rising antisemitism and the fate of unmarried women, and introduction of such fashion icon as Emilie Floge even if for a brief moment. But all those facts made the story progressing forward.
What made the story disengaging was the family drama. At those points the story was stagnant.
@FB/BestHistoricalFiction
https://bestinhistoricalfiction.blogs...
August 6, 2020
*** 4 ***
May 17, 2018
In 1911, the Goldbaum family are a banking dynasty with five branches in major European capitals: London, Vienna, Paris, Berlin and Zurich. They are rich almost beyond measure; they are collectors on a lavish scale; they have the ear of kings and prime ministers. The Goldbaums are also Jewish; and while that familial and cultural loyalty is critical for their success, it is also an Achilles Heel in a world being shaken by the latest wave of anti-semitism. (One of the subplots of this semi-political novel is the anti-Jewish pogroms which are spreading in Russia.). The Jewish aspect of the novel appealed to me very much, and it reminded me of Edmund de Waal’s The Hare with the Amber Eyes although that memoir is set during World War II and is entirely different in tone. What they have common, though, is the Viennese setting and the absolute horror that all of that money and security could just be taken away.
The pre-World War I period of history is a truly fascinating one, and author Natasha Solomons clearly did a great deal of research before constructing this novel. Europe was going through such a major shift, with political movements like socialism and feminism shaking up the old Imperial and monarchical status quo. Solomons manages to hint at many of these shifts and upheavals, but in reality she is writing not a ‘serious’ political history, but rather a family saga set against a rich (in several senses of the word) backdrop. At the beginning of the novel, Greta Goldbaum (of the Viennese Goldbaums) is marrying her cousin Albert Goldbaum (of the English Goldbaums) and their uneasy union is really the heart of the story.
When Greta arrives in England as a new bride she is lost for a role or occupation. At Temple Court in Hampshire - which I believe was loosely modelled on Waddeson Manor, the Rothschild estate - she discovers gardening (which is her mother-in-law’s passion) as a form of self-expression. This means of transforming the landscape is a sort of female counterpart to the patriarchal family business: seeding money. Throughout the novel, Greta’s gardening schemes and passion contrast with the money-making and war-mongering of men.
There is quite a lot going on in this novel, and I don’t think the author always completes the storylines she sets up. Subplots involving characters like Henri Goldbaum and Clement Goldbaum are both unresolved at the end of the novel. The tale unwinds at a cracking pace, with short chapters that bounce between different characters and settings. It was a very enjoyable, engaging read, but at times I longed for more detail and depth. This novel is really more of a 3.5 for me, but I feel more inclined to round up than down.
The pre-World War I period of history is a truly fascinating one, and author Natasha Solomons clearly did a great deal of research before constructing this novel. Europe was going through such a major shift, with political movements like socialism and feminism shaking up the old Imperial and monarchical status quo. Solomons manages to hint at many of these shifts and upheavals, but in reality she is writing not a ‘serious’ political history, but rather a family saga set against a rich (in several senses of the word) backdrop. At the beginning of the novel, Greta Goldbaum (of the Viennese Goldbaums) is marrying her cousin Albert Goldbaum (of the English Goldbaums) and their uneasy union is really the heart of the story.
When Greta arrives in England as a new bride she is lost for a role or occupation. At Temple Court in Hampshire - which I believe was loosely modelled on Waddeson Manor, the Rothschild estate - she discovers gardening (which is her mother-in-law’s passion) as a form of self-expression. This means of transforming the landscape is a sort of female counterpart to the patriarchal family business: seeding money. Throughout the novel, Greta’s gardening schemes and passion contrast with the money-making and war-mongering of men.
There is quite a lot going on in this novel, and I don’t think the author always completes the storylines she sets up. Subplots involving characters like Henri Goldbaum and Clement Goldbaum are both unresolved at the end of the novel. The tale unwinds at a cracking pace, with short chapters that bounce between different characters and settings. It was a very enjoyable, engaging read, but at times I longed for more detail and depth. This novel is really more of a 3.5 for me, but I feel more inclined to round up than down.
June 16, 2018
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance reader's copy.
This is a sort of family saga, though focused on one member of the Goldbaum family, Greta. The House of Goldbaum (loosely based on the House of Rothschild) is a banking empire, with outposts in the great capitals of Europe. The Goldbaums like to keep it all in the family, which means that Greta, from Vienna, is to marry her cousin Albert, of the London Goldbaums. (Nobody mentions any genetic fallout from this practice, but it’s the early 20th century, so they are probably in the dark.)
Albert’s not the monster you’d expect if this was some Gothic novel, but he is a serious man, while Greta is outgoing and unconventional. Albert’s mother sees that Greta is at sea with this transplant far away from home and into a new family where she doesn’t yet fit in. Lady Goldbaum gives Greta a large plot of land to make a garden in. Making her own decisions about this garden, as well as about the old abbey building that will be a house for Greta and Albert, brings Greta to life.
But as Greta becomes part of the English Goldbaums, there is a threat to the safety of her knowledge that she is still part of the family network, her parents and brother Otto in Vienna and her favorite cousin Henri in Paris. War is coming, and that will force a family split.
This is a sweeping romantic novel, but it’s not a romance novel. It’s a novel about these people and their times. It’s clear Solomons did her history homework, but she doesn’t shove everything she learned down our throats in great swaths of exposition.
Solomons doesn’t leave us with a cliffhanger, but at the book’s close, it’s near the end of World War I and Greta is still a young woman. It’s clear that there are many interesting years to come for her, her family, and the House of Goldbaum. So will there be a sequel? I don’t know, but I would welcome one. What I do know is that this story has been optioned for a television dramatization.
I am a fan of Natasha Solomons’s novels, and I liked this one, but I’m not as enthusiastic about it as I am about most of the others. Compared to those books, there just isn’t as much emotional depth. It’s well worth reading, but it rates a “like” not a “love.”
This is a sort of family saga, though focused on one member of the Goldbaum family, Greta. The House of Goldbaum (loosely based on the House of Rothschild) is a banking empire, with outposts in the great capitals of Europe. The Goldbaums like to keep it all in the family, which means that Greta, from Vienna, is to marry her cousin Albert, of the London Goldbaums. (Nobody mentions any genetic fallout from this practice, but it’s the early 20th century, so they are probably in the dark.)
Albert’s not the monster you’d expect if this was some Gothic novel, but he is a serious man, while Greta is outgoing and unconventional. Albert’s mother sees that Greta is at sea with this transplant far away from home and into a new family where she doesn’t yet fit in. Lady Goldbaum gives Greta a large plot of land to make a garden in. Making her own decisions about this garden, as well as about the old abbey building that will be a house for Greta and Albert, brings Greta to life.
But as Greta becomes part of the English Goldbaums, there is a threat to the safety of her knowledge that she is still part of the family network, her parents and brother Otto in Vienna and her favorite cousin Henri in Paris. War is coming, and that will force a family split.
This is a sweeping romantic novel, but it’s not a romance novel. It’s a novel about these people and their times. It’s clear Solomons did her history homework, but she doesn’t shove everything she learned down our throats in great swaths of exposition.
Solomons doesn’t leave us with a cliffhanger, but at the book’s close, it’s near the end of World War I and Greta is still a young woman. It’s clear that there are many interesting years to come for her, her family, and the House of Goldbaum. So will there be a sequel? I don’t know, but I would welcome one. What I do know is that this story has been optioned for a television dramatization.
I am a fan of Natasha Solomons’s novels, and I liked this one, but I’m not as enthusiastic about it as I am about most of the others. Compared to those books, there just isn’t as much emotional depth. It’s well worth reading, but it rates a “like” not a “love.”
April 25, 2018
I loved Natasha Solomons earlier work, especially THE GALLERY OF MISSING HUSBANDS, but this book surpassed her prior novels. It even made me a fan of a genre I generally don't like. Yes, this is a sweeping novel of love and death during WWI, but her writing is lush and beautiful. She has managed to create several memorable characters within a large family.
This is the story of the wealthy Goldbaum clan, inspired by the history of the Rothchilds. The central character is Greta Goldbaum. She is forced into marriage with a cousin, forced to move away from her beloved home and family to England. Nothing about Greta is predictable including her marriage to the aloof Albert. The reader gets to watch the couple grow and see their children born.
From a young displaced woman, we see Greta's growth into a woman of passion and involvement in the life of unfortunate women. She is indeed a "woman of valor."
On the sad side is the war, again beautifully described (despite the fact that it is very disheartening) and the story of Greta's brother, Otto, an unfortunate soldier. When a family is scattered all over Europe, the war can quite literally pit brother against brother and cousin against cousin.
The role of the Goldbaum fortune is also described, including the influence of bankers on government. Solomons also manages to involve the reader in the never-ending strands of anti-Semitism which were strong in Europe, especially depicting the treatment of Jews by the Russians.
Though I generally hate sagas, I must say, that I hope Solomons will consider writing about Greta's daughter, Celia and her experience in England during the years of WWII. Yes, I did the math, she will be at a perfect age to enchant readers in the 1930s-40s. Forgive me for seeing this as Jewish Downton Abbey, but I could not help but see the similarities.
This is a great read and a fine choice for book clubs with so many aspects of social history to examine.
This is the story of the wealthy Goldbaum clan, inspired by the history of the Rothchilds. The central character is Greta Goldbaum. She is forced into marriage with a cousin, forced to move away from her beloved home and family to England. Nothing about Greta is predictable including her marriage to the aloof Albert. The reader gets to watch the couple grow and see their children born.
From a young displaced woman, we see Greta's growth into a woman of passion and involvement in the life of unfortunate women. She is indeed a "woman of valor."
On the sad side is the war, again beautifully described (despite the fact that it is very disheartening) and the story of Greta's brother, Otto, an unfortunate soldier. When a family is scattered all over Europe, the war can quite literally pit brother against brother and cousin against cousin.
The role of the Goldbaum fortune is also described, including the influence of bankers on government. Solomons also manages to involve the reader in the never-ending strands of anti-Semitism which were strong in Europe, especially depicting the treatment of Jews by the Russians.
Though I generally hate sagas, I must say, that I hope Solomons will consider writing about Greta's daughter, Celia and her experience in England during the years of WWII. Yes, I did the math, she will be at a perfect age to enchant readers in the 1930s-40s. Forgive me for seeing this as Jewish Downton Abbey, but I could not help but see the similarities.
This is a great read and a fine choice for book clubs with so many aspects of social history to examine.
September 24, 2018
The Goldbaums are a European dynasty. They are considered the premiere bankers in the world with branches throughout Europe. They wield financial power like no other family. They live opulently setting their own rules. And they are Jewish.
As the book opens in 1911, Greta of the Austrian branch of the family is set to marry one of the sons of the London branch. And she is not happy at all. Greta fancies herself to be beyond the strict rules that govern family life. She chafes against all the accepted norms. But the iron will of the family will not be denied.
As Greta moves on with her marriage and her life in England, so does history. The world stage becomes more and more unstable along with the rise of anti-Semitism. Initially all is well. After all political power demands money. The family continues on generally untouched. But eventually the political conflicts and the bigotry becomes more overt and can no longer be ignored.
This is really a sweeping family saga. Greta's story features prominently but is by no means the only one. There are several subplots within the book featuring different family members.. They are generally interwoven very well and become part of the whole.
I have not read a lot on WWW I and all the events that lead up to it. While Downton Abby had given me some insight into the British perspective,this story filled in a lot of blanks and gave me a totally different look.
I enjoyed this book immensely. I would call this one a big fat read. And that is a very good thing.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As the book opens in 1911, Greta of the Austrian branch of the family is set to marry one of the sons of the London branch. And she is not happy at all. Greta fancies herself to be beyond the strict rules that govern family life. She chafes against all the accepted norms. But the iron will of the family will not be denied.
As Greta moves on with her marriage and her life in England, so does history. The world stage becomes more and more unstable along with the rise of anti-Semitism. Initially all is well. After all political power demands money. The family continues on generally untouched. But eventually the political conflicts and the bigotry becomes more overt and can no longer be ignored.
This is really a sweeping family saga. Greta's story features prominently but is by no means the only one. There are several subplots within the book featuring different family members.. They are generally interwoven very well and become part of the whole.
I have not read a lot on WWW I and all the events that lead up to it. While Downton Abby had given me some insight into the British perspective,this story filled in a lot of blanks and gave me a totally different look.
I enjoyed this book immensely. I would call this one a big fat read. And that is a very good thing.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2020
Vlot geschreven historische roman over de joodse familie Goldbaum. De naam Goldbaum is in heel Europa bekend en samen werkt de familie aan een imperium, totdat de Eerste Wereldoorlog uitbreekt. De familie wordt uit elkaar gehaald en ze komen in alle hoeken van het continent terecht.
Genoten van dit prachtige verhaal, aanrader voor bijvoorbeeld de liefhebbers van Elizabeth Jane Howard!
Genoten van dit prachtige verhaal, aanrader voor bijvoorbeeld de liefhebbers van Elizabeth Jane Howard!
October 23, 2020
rep: Jewish MCs
This was really good. In contrast to WW2 books, I haven't read as many of them that are about WW1. This one was even better by the fact that it's cast is Jewish, which are a community that are often very criticized in historical events. There's several pov's and I never had a problem following them. I will say that there was a part where I had trouble because the pacing, it was after the birth of MC's son. Because before this, she had a daughter but this wasn't shown and I was confused when it was revealed introduced. Other than that, the reading experience was uncomplicated and enjoyable, though the content can get pretty heavy at moments.
TW/CW: arranged marriage, war, politics, sexism/misogyny (challenged), fatphobia (unchallenged), suicide, miscarriage, trauma.
This was really good. In contrast to WW2 books, I haven't read as many of them that are about WW1. This one was even better by the fact that it's cast is Jewish, which are a community that are often very criticized in historical events. There's several pov's and I never had a problem following them. I will say that there was a part where I had trouble because the pacing, it was after the birth of MC's son. Because before this, she had a daughter but this wasn't shown and I was confused when it was revealed introduced. Other than that, the reading experience was uncomplicated and enjoyable, though the content can get pretty heavy at moments.
TW/CW: arranged marriage, war, politics, sexism/misogyny (challenged), fatphobia (unchallenged), suicide, miscarriage, trauma.
April 24, 2022
I Goldbaum di Natasha Solomons (Neri Pozza) è una storia familiare letta con le compagne di viaggio di Saghe familiari controcorrente. Ho letto questo libro in un momento particolare e non so riuscita ad apprezzarlo del tutto. Come le mie compagne di avventura sono partita con un discreto entusiasmo che è andato scemando. Intendiamoci, non sto bocciando il libro che è comunque scorrevole e interessante, ma non è diventato la lettura della vita.
La storia di Greta e Albert comincia nel 1911. I due non hanno scelto di sposarsi ma sono stati costretti: i Goldbaum possono sposarsi solo tra Goldbaum per conservare e tramandare ricchezza e potenza. E così Greta dall'Austria si trasferisce in Gran Bretagna per sposare un uomo di cui non sa nulla e che, diciamolo, è anche un po' inquietante con la fissazione per le farfalle.
La parte che mi ha convinto meno del libro forse è stato proprio il rapporto tra Greta e Albert: orgogliosi, diversi e diffidenti daranno vita a una storia d'amore che sinceramente non mi ha appassionato
RECENSIONE COMPLETA: https://www.lalettricecontrocorrente....
La storia di Greta e Albert comincia nel 1911. I due non hanno scelto di sposarsi ma sono stati costretti: i Goldbaum possono sposarsi solo tra Goldbaum per conservare e tramandare ricchezza e potenza. E così Greta dall'Austria si trasferisce in Gran Bretagna per sposare un uomo di cui non sa nulla e che, diciamolo, è anche un po' inquietante con la fissazione per le farfalle.
La parte che mi ha convinto meno del libro forse è stato proprio il rapporto tra Greta e Albert: orgogliosi, diversi e diffidenti daranno vita a una storia d'amore che sinceramente non mi ha appassionato
RECENSIONE COMPLETA: https://www.lalettricecontrocorrente....
December 6, 2018
This is probably my favorite book of 2018 and I have read some fantastic books this year. Set at the outbreak of WWI, the story centers around the Goldbaum family, a Jewish banking family who basically finance Europe. The opulence of their life is offset by their real life struggles such as arrange marriages, childbirth and the danger of war. I cant rave enough about this book. I love historical fiction and I just felt so invested in this story and the characters in this book. I guess there is no Goldbaum family but it is loosely based on the Rothschild empire. I received an ARC ebook from Netgalley for free in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2024
Bello bello bellissimo
Ricco di spunti di riflessione, personaggi ben delineati e ben collocati nel periodo storico di riferimento. E’ anche un romanzo un po’ rosa… il che non guasta
Ricco di spunti di riflessione, personaggi ben delineati e ben collocati nel periodo storico di riferimento. E’ anche un romanzo un po’ rosa… il che non guasta
January 24, 2025
I'm happy I read this book, though he stole me many hours of sleep, lol!
Since I started it, I began to go to sleep at 1 a.m., because I really could not put it down!
In the last month I developed an interest for books set at the beginning of 20th century, like this one, that tells the story of the Goldbaums, a wealthy Jewish family of bankers.
The main character is Greta Goldbaum, a young woman wild and looking for freedom in a world made of rules and manners. She belongs to the Austrian side of the Goldbaum and her parents force her to marry her English cousin Albert, that she has never met.
Greta will have to leave her own country, her beloved brother Otto, to go to a foreign country and to be the wife of a man she's not in love with.
The book explores the topics of love, marriage, sex and the hostility towards Jewish people.
The Goldbaum are accepted because of their money, but discriminated as individuals.
They are accostumed at a world of fashion, but everything will change with WWI. All the Goldbaums will be deeply affected by the war, and Greta's strenghness will be put to the test once more.
Will she find happiness in spite of all the things she will have to face?
I already read by Natasha Solomons "Tyneford House", that I really enjoyed, and "House of Gold" is even better. I look forward to read the next book by her.
Since I started it, I began to go to sleep at 1 a.m., because I really could not put it down!
In the last month I developed an interest for books set at the beginning of 20th century, like this one, that tells the story of the Goldbaums, a wealthy Jewish family of bankers.
The main character is Greta Goldbaum, a young woman wild and looking for freedom in a world made of rules and manners. She belongs to the Austrian side of the Goldbaum and her parents force her to marry her English cousin Albert, that she has never met.
Greta will have to leave her own country, her beloved brother Otto, to go to a foreign country and to be the wife of a man she's not in love with.
The book explores the topics of love, marriage, sex and the hostility towards Jewish people.
The Goldbaum are accepted because of their money, but discriminated as individuals.
They are accostumed at a world of fashion, but everything will change with WWI. All the Goldbaums will be deeply affected by the war, and Greta's strenghness will be put to the test once more.
Will she find happiness in spite of all the things she will have to face?
I already read by Natasha Solomons "Tyneford House", that I really enjoyed, and "House of Gold" is even better. I look forward to read the next book by her.
December 11, 2018
I enjoy historical fiction, and this is among the best I've read. A long, languish, character driven novel, set in Europe up to and including the first world war. The story centres on a massively wealthy finance family of Jews, spread across Europe, and can only be based on none other than the Rothschilds.
Long drawn in places, too many details in other places, and loose ends are my only complaints.
Long drawn in places, too many details in other places, and loose ends are my only complaints.
April 12, 2021
3,5
I Goldbaum sono una famiglia di ricchi banchieri ebrei che vivono un po’ in tutta Europa. La vicenda ha inizio a Vienna dove, dopo lunghe descrizioni del suntuoso palazzo, vengono descritti alcuni personaggi.
La protagonista è Greta, una ragazza ribelle ed energica che non vuole saperne degli usi e costumi della famiglia e vorrebbe vivere con libertà senza preoccuparsi dell’etichetta. Per preservare la ricchezza della famiglia, i Goldbaum si sposano tra loro e la mano di Greta sarà chiesta da Albert, su costrizione dei genitori. Greta non ne vuole sapere, ma ben presto dovrà adattarsi al volere dell’intera famiglia.
L’amore nei confronti di Albert non può essere comandato, ma vivendo a stretto contatto i due impareranno a volersi bene e a condividere la loro vita insieme.
Le vicende della famiglia sono perfettamente dislocate tra i capitoli, in modo da comprendere tanti punti di vista di personaggi diversi. I protagonisti sono Greta e Albert, ma gli altri componenti della famiglia costituiranno una parte importantissima della narrazione e all’interno della trama.
Il libro si può dividere in due parti separate tra loro dallo scoppio della Prima Guerra Mondiale. Nella seconda metà del romanzo il carattere storico sembra prendere il sopravvento, tant’è che i vari personaggi si troveranno in balia della Grande Guerra nei vari schieramenti, anche in lotta tra loro. Infatti, la famiglia d’origine di Greta è austriaca, ma ella sposa Albert Goldbaum e va a vivere presso la famiglia acquisita in Inghilterra. Per la protagonista, divisa tra i due fronti della sua vita, non sarà affatto semplice.
Leggendo la sinossi ufficiale del libro, mi ero fatta un’idea del tutto diversa del romanzo, convinta che si trattasse prevalentemente di una storia d’amore. Invece, ogni capitolo ruota attorno ad un personaggio diverso e dall’inizio alla fine seguiamo contemporaneamente le vicende di ognuno di loro, vicende che si intrecciano l’una con l’altra in una precisa trama di avventure. Qualcuno ha più spazio di altri e questo continuo cambio di punti di vista non mi ha sempre aiutata a focalizzarmi bene su ognuno.
Non ho gradito particolarmente questo tipo di struttura, anche perché i componenti della famiglia sono molti, quindi risulta difficile tenere tutto a mente.
La storia è interessante e cattura subito l’attenzione del lettore, nonostante la presenza continua di lunghe descrizioni. L’ambientazione storica è ben studiata e mi ha fatto piacere riscoprire il genere, accompagnato ad una deliziosa rete di vicende familiari.
La protagonista, Greta, è un personaggio davvero interessante sotto tanti punti di vista. Innanzitutto, è una ribelle e non ama le convenzioni sociali. Vuole fare tutto di testa sua, ma a volte si rende conto di non poter decidere su ogni aspetto della sua vita: è una Goldbaum e come tale deve comportarsi, come le ripete spesso la madre. Secondo me questo personaggio ha molto potenziale, che però non è stato sfruttato al 100%. Soprattutto nella seconda metà del libro perde la sua verve iniziale (com’è anche giusto che sia, viste le circostanze), però il suo personaggio passa sempre più in secondo piano. Mi è dispiaciuto, perché avrebbe avuto molto da offrire alla storia con la sua baldanza e il suo coraggio.
Sicuramente è un libro che mi ha fatto piacere leggere e scoprire, ma non ne sono entusiasta. Lo consiglio a tutti coloro che amino il genere della saga familiare, contornato da vicende storiche che fanno breccia nella trama e ne diventano parte integrante.
I Goldbaum sono una famiglia di ricchi banchieri ebrei che vivono un po’ in tutta Europa. La vicenda ha inizio a Vienna dove, dopo lunghe descrizioni del suntuoso palazzo, vengono descritti alcuni personaggi.
La protagonista è Greta, una ragazza ribelle ed energica che non vuole saperne degli usi e costumi della famiglia e vorrebbe vivere con libertà senza preoccuparsi dell’etichetta. Per preservare la ricchezza della famiglia, i Goldbaum si sposano tra loro e la mano di Greta sarà chiesta da Albert, su costrizione dei genitori. Greta non ne vuole sapere, ma ben presto dovrà adattarsi al volere dell’intera famiglia.
L’amore nei confronti di Albert non può essere comandato, ma vivendo a stretto contatto i due impareranno a volersi bene e a condividere la loro vita insieme.
Le vicende della famiglia sono perfettamente dislocate tra i capitoli, in modo da comprendere tanti punti di vista di personaggi diversi. I protagonisti sono Greta e Albert, ma gli altri componenti della famiglia costituiranno una parte importantissima della narrazione e all’interno della trama.
Il libro si può dividere in due parti separate tra loro dallo scoppio della Prima Guerra Mondiale. Nella seconda metà del romanzo il carattere storico sembra prendere il sopravvento, tant’è che i vari personaggi si troveranno in balia della Grande Guerra nei vari schieramenti, anche in lotta tra loro. Infatti, la famiglia d’origine di Greta è austriaca, ma ella sposa Albert Goldbaum e va a vivere presso la famiglia acquisita in Inghilterra. Per la protagonista, divisa tra i due fronti della sua vita, non sarà affatto semplice.
Leggendo la sinossi ufficiale del libro, mi ero fatta un’idea del tutto diversa del romanzo, convinta che si trattasse prevalentemente di una storia d’amore. Invece, ogni capitolo ruota attorno ad un personaggio diverso e dall’inizio alla fine seguiamo contemporaneamente le vicende di ognuno di loro, vicende che si intrecciano l’una con l’altra in una precisa trama di avventure. Qualcuno ha più spazio di altri e questo continuo cambio di punti di vista non mi ha sempre aiutata a focalizzarmi bene su ognuno.
Non ho gradito particolarmente questo tipo di struttura, anche perché i componenti della famiglia sono molti, quindi risulta difficile tenere tutto a mente.
La storia è interessante e cattura subito l’attenzione del lettore, nonostante la presenza continua di lunghe descrizioni. L’ambientazione storica è ben studiata e mi ha fatto piacere riscoprire il genere, accompagnato ad una deliziosa rete di vicende familiari.
La protagonista, Greta, è un personaggio davvero interessante sotto tanti punti di vista. Innanzitutto, è una ribelle e non ama le convenzioni sociali. Vuole fare tutto di testa sua, ma a volte si rende conto di non poter decidere su ogni aspetto della sua vita: è una Goldbaum e come tale deve comportarsi, come le ripete spesso la madre. Secondo me questo personaggio ha molto potenziale, che però non è stato sfruttato al 100%. Soprattutto nella seconda metà del libro perde la sua verve iniziale (com’è anche giusto che sia, viste le circostanze), però il suo personaggio passa sempre più in secondo piano. Mi è dispiaciuto, perché avrebbe avuto molto da offrire alla storia con la sua baldanza e il suo coraggio.
Sicuramente è un libro che mi ha fatto piacere leggere e scoprire, ma non ne sono entusiasta. Lo consiglio a tutti coloro che amino il genere della saga familiare, contornato da vicende storiche che fanno breccia nella trama e ne diventano parte integrante.
January 2, 2019
I really wanted to love this one! I really did. But unfortunately this was a bit of a struggle for me and took a loooong time to get through. I love historical fiction. I love war stories. But this one just fell really flat for me.
Greta Goldbaum is a bright spot in the story and I devoured every chapter about her. She's smart and feisty and goes by the beat of her own drum. despite being part of the Goldbaum empire - one of the wealthiest families in the world. All the men are bankers and the Goldbaum women, marry the Goldbaum men just to produce heirs, and more Goldbaum bankers. I already dislike them. Yes, I know - it's how it was in the early 1900's. Everyone married their cousins to keep the bloodline going and everyone who had money was full of themselves and thought they were better than everyone else. This is especially evident in this LONG family saga. Which made it particularly hard for me to like anyone but Greta.
Greta is sent from Vienna to England, to marry her distant cousin Albert. She is NOT happy about the arrangement and struggles in her new life. But them her mother-in-law introduces her to gardening and a new love blooms, and may just help her get to know Albert a little better. But war is looming and there is a whole cast of characters to keep track of - including multiple cousins and family members. We follow them all though loves, and loss and war.
There's a lot of political and government conversations that go on as far as, who the family will align with, who they will loan money to and the reasons behind these decisions - which BORED THE HELL OUT OF ME. Half of the story - the strategies and wealth and political/government decisions - just to much. Too confusing. Too many character and countries and opinions and numbers and who gets along with who, and I think my head just exploded.
I loved Greta. I loved her story, and the gardens and the talk about plants. I hated just about everyone else, and there were SO MANY story lines and plots to follow. A bit too much for me. This book felt like work.
Greta Goldbaum is a bright spot in the story and I devoured every chapter about her. She's smart and feisty and goes by the beat of her own drum. despite being part of the Goldbaum empire - one of the wealthiest families in the world. All the men are bankers and the Goldbaum women, marry the Goldbaum men just to produce heirs, and more Goldbaum bankers. I already dislike them. Yes, I know - it's how it was in the early 1900's. Everyone married their cousins to keep the bloodline going and everyone who had money was full of themselves and thought they were better than everyone else. This is especially evident in this LONG family saga. Which made it particularly hard for me to like anyone but Greta.
Greta is sent from Vienna to England, to marry her distant cousin Albert. She is NOT happy about the arrangement and struggles in her new life. But them her mother-in-law introduces her to gardening and a new love blooms, and may just help her get to know Albert a little better. But war is looming and there is a whole cast of characters to keep track of - including multiple cousins and family members. We follow them all though loves, and loss and war.
There's a lot of political and government conversations that go on as far as, who the family will align with, who they will loan money to and the reasons behind these decisions - which BORED THE HELL OUT OF ME. Half of the story - the strategies and wealth and political/government decisions - just to much. Too confusing. Too many character and countries and opinions and numbers and who gets along with who, and I think my head just exploded.
I loved Greta. I loved her story, and the gardens and the talk about plants. I hated just about everyone else, and there were SO MANY story lines and plots to follow. A bit too much for me. This book felt like work.
Read
January 9, 2019I got all excited when I first read the synopsis because its' setting during WWI and the family saga and I adore historical novels.
The first half is pre-war and talks of Greta, arranged marriage, and the workings of banks. The second half is the beginning and during the war.
I was not able to relate to any of the characters. There were a lot of areas were just boring and tedious. I tried to like or even enjoy the book. It took me weeks to finally finish this book which is unheard of me.
I'll give it a low 3 stars.
I received this ARC from Penguin Group Putnam through Net Galley for my honest and unbiased honest review. Thank you!
The first half is pre-war and talks of Greta, arranged marriage, and the workings of banks. The second half is the beginning and during the war.
I was not able to relate to any of the characters. There were a lot of areas were just boring and tedious. I tried to like or even enjoy the book. It took me weeks to finally finish this book which is unheard of me.
I'll give it a low 3 stars.
I received this ARC from Penguin Group Putnam through Net Galley for my honest and unbiased honest review. Thank you!
June 20, 2020
For those of you familiar with track and field, the pacing of this book is what we would refer to as a negative split.
In other words, the second half of it moves faster than the first. A LOT faster. I’ve never seen a race where the differential was quite this extreme, but I can’t imagine it would end well. Things worked out slightly better for the book.
The first half of the narrative is largely devoted to protagonist Greta’s adjustment to married life and the awkwardness of her relationship with her husband. It was tough to care much about either.
Fortunately, once the war gets going (nothing like a war to liven things up!), so does the story.
From there, the pacing is greatly improved, and Solomons’ writing (beautiful from the first page to the last) finds more worthy subject matter.
I do wish the pacing had been more even (perhaps the war should have started earlier in the narrative?), but if you can stick out the early going, it proves to be a powerful and compelling story.
It’s clear that this book is loosely based on the Rothschild family, but I wish there had been an author’s note letting the reader know how much history was infused into the story. (My copy is an ARC, so perhaps this exists in the published version).
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
In other words, the second half of it moves faster than the first. A LOT faster. I’ve never seen a race where the differential was quite this extreme, but I can’t imagine it would end well. Things worked out slightly better for the book.
The first half of the narrative is largely devoted to protagonist Greta’s adjustment to married life and the awkwardness of her relationship with her husband. It was tough to care much about either.
Fortunately, once the war gets going (nothing like a war to liven things up!), so does the story.
From there, the pacing is greatly improved, and Solomons’ writing (beautiful from the first page to the last) finds more worthy subject matter.
I do wish the pacing had been more even (perhaps the war should have started earlier in the narrative?), but if you can stick out the early going, it proves to be a powerful and compelling story.
It’s clear that this book is loosely based on the Rothschild family, but I wish there had been an author’s note letting the reader know how much history was infused into the story. (My copy is an ARC, so perhaps this exists in the published version).
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
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