A look into the “Gilded Age” and beyond.

Was hoping to read how the Vanderbilt’s accrued and acquired wealth, instead I was languished in a story about parties, social gathering and gossip. Unless you have a personal interest in the Vanderbilt family, I would skip.

A fascinating read, delivered with perspective, empathy, and humor.

Can’t stop reading!

Read this for a book club. Thought it sounded interesting but it was not. Who really cares about the Vanderbilts?!? I forced myself to finish it. Sorr I wasted $15!

Such an amazing history and insight to the family. I loved Andersons transition to first person towards the end. It really brought everything together.

I was disappointed in this book. I almost couldn’t get through it. The first half or so is filled with minute details of the origins of the Vanderbilt family in the 1700’s. The intermittent referencing throughout the book back to these characters sometimes made it difficult to track. The last third of the book is the best, but also is too mired in minutia.

the Vanderbilts who made the empire rather than so much on the ones who blew it...but good!

A concise history of the Vanderbuilt family. Anderson describes their lifestyles in a way that the reader lives it too. I didnt want to put the book down. Also, Anderson’s love for his mother did not stop him from revealing her many shortcomings. Excellent.

Well-written! Gave me so much imagination what it is like to be in New York during Glided Age and how it transformed New York now. Didn’t realize the influence from Vanderbilts almost everywhere in NYC. I have to admit that I am disappointed when the book had to end. I wish there are more chapters to read!