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Vanderbilt's Biltmore
The original sketch for the Biltmore, George Washington Vanderbilt's grand estate in the mountains near Asheville, North Carolina, laid out plans for a modest Tuscan villa. But ambition quickly took wing. The house swelled to 225 rooms and became - until 2012 when it was topped by the home of a billionaire in Mumbai, India - the world's largest residence ever built for a private citizen. Here, in this short-form book, New York Times bestselling author Robert Wernick tells the story of the house that Vanderbilt built - from the gardens by Frederick Law Olmsted to the John Singer Sargent portraits that adorn its walls.
- GenresNonfictionHistory
11 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 20, 2024
Ugh— a quick read with NO photos— the only reason I borrowed the digital book from the library to begin with.
Le sigh. Someday I hope to visit in person. Until then, a google search will suffice!
(Reviewed 2/19/24)
Le sigh. Someday I hope to visit in person. Until then, a google search will suffice!
(Reviewed 2/19/24)
October 13, 2021
Book Review: "Vanderbilt's Biltmore;" Author: Robert Wernick; Publisher: New Word City, Inc; 1st Edition (Feb 24 2014); (Kindle Edition).
I am an avid reader of Victoria Magazine, a Hoffman Media Publication, so much so that I have crates full of their elegant, high quality magazines that boast illustrations and writings that combine together to create a winning reading experience for interested readers. It is during my perusal of the magazine a few years ago that I was introduced at length to Victoria Magazine's annual Christmas event at the historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Pre-Covid, they held holiday excursions which consisted of afternoon tea and a tour of this opulent estate that is Biltmore, all decked in its annual Yuletide splendor. Special overnight stays were also offered, making it a wonderful, getaway goal.
One of my goals in 2020 was to visit this historic estate, but the Covid era took over, rearing its ugly head, paralyzing the world into a stagnant existence, dashing all hopes and dreams for travelling abroad.
And so with plans choked off to attend Biltmore Estate, I have continued to march forward, reading materials that help me gain further insight to this awe-inspiring estate rich in history which piqued my interest so strongly.
In comes Robert Wernick's "Vanderbilt's Biltmore," a book which immediately strikes at you with information at the opening sentence like an arrow determinately aimed from Eros' bow. I state this because it starts and ends abruptly with a few pages embedded in the middle of this written sandwich. There are eleven pages in total to this book. Eleven. Reading it, I felt like I was on a parachute that lifted in the air and immediately came back down. I wanted more and it wasn't like I could just simply add more coins to the machine and get my satisfaction.
Now mind you, though it is a very, very short read, it does give you some strong details about the history of Biltmore and it's current state. It is an 'overview' of this estate and all it entails. I am the type of reader, though, that likes the opening of a story to be detailed, cajoling my interest, gearing me up for what is to come. I did not feel like I was reading a book but a detailed pamphlet. Despite this shake up to my reading expectations, this is still a good...booklet...to digest. The style may not be what I am used to, but as a reader, it is important to try to keep an open mind and appreciate that not all writers will create settings and plots and execute a writing style that fits with our own reading expectations of perfection.
If you are not looking for an in-depth, sweeping saga, this short version of Biltmore has all the right buttons for a reader not hung up on bulk. It is perfect if you have a bit of time to spare and would like to read something educational in one sitting. A solid 4.5/5- half a mark removed for style but a lovely effort in total. Having read this book, I am confident this writer could write a sweeping, epic account of Biltmore. And yes, I would consider reading other books by this author.
I was not requested to do this review. I did it of my own volition, volunteering my views in an effort to bring the author and potential readers together. All opinions/views re my own.
This review is also posted on Goodreads, Amazon and on my own website at www.marylisarusso.ca
Have a nice day!
I am an avid reader of Victoria Magazine, a Hoffman Media Publication, so much so that I have crates full of their elegant, high quality magazines that boast illustrations and writings that combine together to create a winning reading experience for interested readers. It is during my perusal of the magazine a few years ago that I was introduced at length to Victoria Magazine's annual Christmas event at the historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Pre-Covid, they held holiday excursions which consisted of afternoon tea and a tour of this opulent estate that is Biltmore, all decked in its annual Yuletide splendor. Special overnight stays were also offered, making it a wonderful, getaway goal.
One of my goals in 2020 was to visit this historic estate, but the Covid era took over, rearing its ugly head, paralyzing the world into a stagnant existence, dashing all hopes and dreams for travelling abroad.
And so with plans choked off to attend Biltmore Estate, I have continued to march forward, reading materials that help me gain further insight to this awe-inspiring estate rich in history which piqued my interest so strongly.
In comes Robert Wernick's "Vanderbilt's Biltmore," a book which immediately strikes at you with information at the opening sentence like an arrow determinately aimed from Eros' bow. I state this because it starts and ends abruptly with a few pages embedded in the middle of this written sandwich. There are eleven pages in total to this book. Eleven. Reading it, I felt like I was on a parachute that lifted in the air and immediately came back down. I wanted more and it wasn't like I could just simply add more coins to the machine and get my satisfaction.
Now mind you, though it is a very, very short read, it does give you some strong details about the history of Biltmore and it's current state. It is an 'overview' of this estate and all it entails. I am the type of reader, though, that likes the opening of a story to be detailed, cajoling my interest, gearing me up for what is to come. I did not feel like I was reading a book but a detailed pamphlet. Despite this shake up to my reading expectations, this is still a good...booklet...to digest. The style may not be what I am used to, but as a reader, it is important to try to keep an open mind and appreciate that not all writers will create settings and plots and execute a writing style that fits with our own reading expectations of perfection.
If you are not looking for an in-depth, sweeping saga, this short version of Biltmore has all the right buttons for a reader not hung up on bulk. It is perfect if you have a bit of time to spare and would like to read something educational in one sitting. A solid 4.5/5- half a mark removed for style but a lovely effort in total. Having read this book, I am confident this writer could write a sweeping, epic account of Biltmore. And yes, I would consider reading other books by this author.
I was not requested to do this review. I did it of my own volition, volunteering my views in an effort to bring the author and potential readers together. All opinions/views re my own.
This review is also posted on Goodreads, Amazon and on my own website at www.marylisarusso.ca
Have a nice day!
July 8, 2016
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Rating: 3 Stars
I have a problem when I see a book about a topic I am extremely interested in - I pretty much buy the book without much thought, if it is what appears to be a decent price. This one looked like a steal for $.99, but ended up only being 17 'pages' long. So really, probably not worth it to most people, and realistically I should probably be mad and feel duped and dumb for spending that much on it.
I don't really mind though, honestly, because the Vanderbilts are an endless source of intrigue for me, as are all the of the families we consider 'Old Money' (but were called 'New Money' at the time). There is something about the robber barons/Gilded Age that holds endless fascination for me. The fact that so many of their summer homes still exist (especially when their 5th Avenue mansions do not) makes my heart so joyous and some day I will take a trip to the East Coast to see all of them.
Biltmore is a bit different though, as it was built by George Washington Vanderbilt II (youngest son of William Henry Vanderbilt and grandson of the Commodore, Cornelius Vanderbilt) as a summer home - but not in the typical location. Instead he opted for Asheville, North Carolina while his brothers and sisters built theirs in Newport and Hyde Park.
I guess my only problem with the volume is that it is so short. I was looking for maybe a combination history of the home and Vanderbilt's life? This was his home after all, you'd think that the two would be a little entwined. But this was a very brief introduction of the property. It was not a terrible book by any means, and there was a lot of interesting information but this read more like a souvenir guidebook you might buy at the property than an actual book. And maybe that is what it is meant to be. I should have paid a little more attention when BookBub tempted me with it, but all I could see was the word 'Vanderbilt' and it was over. Still, I'd recommend it for those interested in the property. It is quite beautiful and one I hope to visit in the future.
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www.twitter.com/SarahsBookNook
Rating: 3 Stars
I have a problem when I see a book about a topic I am extremely interested in - I pretty much buy the book without much thought, if it is what appears to be a decent price. This one looked like a steal for $.99, but ended up only being 17 'pages' long. So really, probably not worth it to most people, and realistically I should probably be mad and feel duped and dumb for spending that much on it.
I don't really mind though, honestly, because the Vanderbilts are an endless source of intrigue for me, as are all the of the families we consider 'Old Money' (but were called 'New Money' at the time). There is something about the robber barons/Gilded Age that holds endless fascination for me. The fact that so many of their summer homes still exist (especially when their 5th Avenue mansions do not) makes my heart so joyous and some day I will take a trip to the East Coast to see all of them.
Biltmore is a bit different though, as it was built by George Washington Vanderbilt II (youngest son of William Henry Vanderbilt and grandson of the Commodore, Cornelius Vanderbilt) as a summer home - but not in the typical location. Instead he opted for Asheville, North Carolina while his brothers and sisters built theirs in Newport and Hyde Park.
I guess my only problem with the volume is that it is so short. I was looking for maybe a combination history of the home and Vanderbilt's life? This was his home after all, you'd think that the two would be a little entwined. But this was a very brief introduction of the property. It was not a terrible book by any means, and there was a lot of interesting information but this read more like a souvenir guidebook you might buy at the property than an actual book. And maybe that is what it is meant to be. I should have paid a little more attention when BookBub tempted me with it, but all I could see was the word 'Vanderbilt' and it was over. Still, I'd recommend it for those interested in the property. It is quite beautiful and one I hope to visit in the future.
June 27, 2016
This was a very short book, only 17 pages. I already knew a lot of the information in the book. I am fascinated with the Biltmore mansion. This book offered a brief history of the house.
August 19, 2017
A Must Vacation
I remember driving up and seeing the home. How absolutely amazing.
We were there on a July day and the sun shining on not only the house but the grounds around it took me to another time.
When we went the tour price was $34.95 , I wrote that in the guide book and because A&E was filming that day all the groups had guides. Ours was a member of the family.
We saw house from top to bottom, and then could wander on the main floor as long as we wanted.
But as fabulous as the house was the best part was the grounds.
To walk the paths and in the gardens and look out at the view is something I will never forget.
When you go, and you must, have lunch in the stables. Fantastic food, and the horses lived like royalty.
And never forget this was and still is a self sufficient enterprise that also brings jobs for the people of Asheville.
How many rich people's estates can say that.
I remember driving up and seeing the home. How absolutely amazing.
We were there on a July day and the sun shining on not only the house but the grounds around it took me to another time.
When we went the tour price was $34.95 , I wrote that in the guide book and because A&E was filming that day all the groups had guides. Ours was a member of the family.
We saw house from top to bottom, and then could wander on the main floor as long as we wanted.
But as fabulous as the house was the best part was the grounds.
To walk the paths and in the gardens and look out at the view is something I will never forget.
When you go, and you must, have lunch in the stables. Fantastic food, and the horses lived like royalty.
And never forget this was and still is a self sufficient enterprise that also brings jobs for the people of Asheville.
How many rich people's estates can say that.
April 17, 2022
it is 11 pages with no photos. Very, very disappointing.
I read in review that this was a short book. No where did anyone say how short. It is 11 pages! No photo, no pictures, no drawings. Yes, there is a brief magazine-like article and it hits the highlights, but you could go to Wikipedia and be more informed. I did like The Last Castle. Order that instead.
I read in review that this was a short book. No where did anyone say how short. It is 11 pages! No photo, no pictures, no drawings. Yes, there is a brief magazine-like article and it hits the highlights, but you could go to Wikipedia and be more informed. I did like The Last Castle. Order that instead.
December 27, 2024
I knew from other reviews and the description that this was very short; but I’m still curious about the house after visiting for the first time earlier this week. Most of this I already knew from the tour; but some was new information. I do think it’s best to read this short work before visiting, as opposed to after.
December 10, 2018
Great Starter Book For Those Interested In Biltmore
Liked the book, I have done some resistance my visit and am intrigued by the mansion. Book is facts that will raise more interest.
Liked the book, I have done some resistance my visit and am intrigued by the mansion. Book is facts that will raise more interest.
March 7, 2018
concise history of this beautiful house
February 24, 2015
Whoa! What! I've had this book on my Kindle for awhile...started it today...was done in @ 20min???WHat?...Looked it up...it's 14 pages long....
I visited Biltmore several years ago with my cousin, and loved it, and always vowed to read more @ the Vanderbilts....guess I did not pay attention when I added this to my Kindle....it's only 14 pages long.....I was expecting much more @ the history of the Vanderbilts....Note to self...pay more attention.....
I visited Biltmore several years ago with my cousin, and loved it, and always vowed to read more @ the Vanderbilts....guess I did not pay attention when I added this to my Kindle....it's only 14 pages long.....I was expecting much more @ the history of the Vanderbilts....Note to self...pay more attention.....
April 9, 2016
Very informative. Short. I need to find a book on the Biltmore and George Vanderbilt that is longer. I feel that this read only captures the hot spots or the most popular points of the Biltmore Estate.
June 17, 2016
See this wonderful house yourselves
I have visited Biltmore and plan to go again soon. This is a place of dreams. I had visited The Breakers and The Marble House in Newport and loved them especially because they were built on the ocean front. So much to see and admire.
I have visited Biltmore and plan to go again soon. This is a place of dreams. I had visited The Breakers and The Marble House in Newport and loved them especially because they were built on the ocean front. So much to see and admire.
May 12, 2014
Just an overview..
As someone who has been able to visit the Biltmore, I am sure I enjoyed this brief book, more so...This was just an overview of Biltmore, but well written.
As someone who has been able to visit the Biltmore, I am sure I enjoyed this brief book, more so...This was just an overview of Biltmore, but well written.
December 24, 2014
Good general summary
A good general summary of Biltmore with great photos of the house and incredible grounds. The spring and fall colors are awe inspiring.
A good general summary of Biltmore with great photos of the house and incredible grounds. The spring and fall colors are awe inspiring.
March 4, 2015
Excellent blurb...
If you're even remotely interested in visiting Biltmore, this is the ticket to whet your appetite. Just enough to intrigue and make you want more.
If you're even remotely interested in visiting Biltmore, this is the ticket to whet your appetite. Just enough to intrigue and make you want more.
August 27, 2016
Not much of a book. Misleading, ripoff. But interesting.
April 30, 2024
A very short book without photos. That was a disappointment. But I still liked the book for its concise history of the building.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews