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The Colony Club
When young Gilded Age society matron Daisy Harriman is refused a room at the Waldorf because they don’t cater to unaccompanied females, she takes matters into her own hands. She establishes the Colony Club, the first women’s club in Manhattan, where visiting women can stay overnight and dine with their friends; where they can discuss new ideas, take on social issues, and make their voices heard. She hires the most sought-after architect in New York, Stanford White, to design the clubhouse.
As “the best dressed actress on the Rialto” Elsie de Wolfe has an eye for décor, but her career is stagnating. So when White asks her to design the clubhouse interiors, she jumps at the chance and the opportunity to add a woman’s touch. He promises to send her an assistant, a young woman he’s hired as a draftsman.
Raised in the Lower East Side tenements, Nora Bromely is determined to become an architect in spite of hostility and sabotage from her male colleagues. She is disappointed and angry when White “foists” her off on this new women’s club project.
But when White is murdered and the ensuing Trial of the Century discloses the architect’s scandalous personal life, fearful backers begin to withdraw their support. It’s questionable whether the club will survive long enough to open.
Daisy, Elsie, and Nora have nothing in common but their determination to carry on. But to do so, they must overcome not only society’s mores but their own prejudices about women, wealth, and each other. Together they strive to transform Daisy’s dream of the Colony Club into a reality, a place that will nurture social justice and ensure the work of the women who earned the nickname “Mink Brigade” far into the future.
As “the best dressed actress on the Rialto” Elsie de Wolfe has an eye for décor, but her career is stagnating. So when White asks her to design the clubhouse interiors, she jumps at the chance and the opportunity to add a woman’s touch. He promises to send her an assistant, a young woman he’s hired as a draftsman.
Raised in the Lower East Side tenements, Nora Bromely is determined to become an architect in spite of hostility and sabotage from her male colleagues. She is disappointed and angry when White “foists” her off on this new women’s club project.
But when White is murdered and the ensuing Trial of the Century discloses the architect’s scandalous personal life, fearful backers begin to withdraw their support. It’s questionable whether the club will survive long enough to open.
Daisy, Elsie, and Nora have nothing in common but their determination to carry on. But to do so, they must overcome not only society’s mores but their own prejudices about women, wealth, and each other. Together they strive to transform Daisy’s dream of the Colony Club into a reality, a place that will nurture social justice and ensure the work of the women who earned the nickname “Mink Brigade” far into the future.
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2024
306 people are currently reading
12991 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Noble
29 books1,266 followersShelley Noble is a multi published fiction author whose books have been translated into seven languages. She writes women’s fiction as Shelley Noble and is also the author of several amateur sleuth mystery series, written as Shelley Freydont.
A former professional dancer and choreographer, she most recently worked on the films, Mona Lisa Smile and The Game Plan. She also consults on various dance and theatre projects, most recently the world premiere of a full length Tom Sawyer ballet commissioned by Kansas City Ballet.
Shelley is a member of Sisters-in-Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Romance Writers of America, and Liberty States Fiction Writers.
She lives near the New Jersey shore. In her spare time she loves to discover new beaches and indulge her passion for lighthouses and boardwalks with vintage carousels.
A former professional dancer and choreographer, she most recently worked on the films, Mona Lisa Smile and The Game Plan. She also consults on various dance and theatre projects, most recently the world premiere of a full length Tom Sawyer ballet commissioned by Kansas City Ballet.
Shelley is a member of Sisters-in-Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Romance Writers of America, and Liberty States Fiction Writers.
She lives near the New Jersey shore. In her spare time she loves to discover new beaches and indulge her passion for lighthouses and boardwalks with vintage carousels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
February 17, 2026
Why I chose to listen to this audiobook:
1. I really enjoyed listening to Shelley Noble's book The Tiffany Girls last summer (a 5-star read, in my opinion,) so I added this one to my WTR list;
2. I'm a huge fan of quality historical fiction, and the audiobook is available on Hoopla; and,
3. February 2026 is my "C and D Titles" Month!
Praises:
1. the personal lives of the "Colony Club" women (real and imagined) intertwined nicely with the rich historical background;
2. characters:
- (actual) - socialites Florence "Daisy" Harriman, Elisabeth "Bessie" Marbury, and Elsie de Wolfe all played vital roles in making The Colony Club (the first women's club in the US) come into fruition. Daisy's strong sense of social justice, Bessie's clout with influential people, and Elsie's eye for style were three intriguing women that had me researching their backgrounds;
- (fictional) - Nora Bromley gave me a sense of the difficulties women architects faced in the misogynistic NYC society during the turn of the 20th century. While working in a male-dominated profession, I could cheer on and agonize with her through her working conditions and various relationships, be it family, friends, and colleagues;
3. once again, Noble does a fine job detailing women's rights (or lack thereof) during this time period;
4. the Author's Note is a must-read/listen; and,
5. narrator Caroline Hewitt continues to enthrall me with her pleasant and effortless delivery of the storyline.
Niggles: None!
Overall Thoughts:
Another 5-star historical fictional story from Noble where I learned something new about strong influential women without being bombarded by overwhelming romantic plots. I have already added her soon-to-be published book The Sisters of Book Row to my WTR list.
Once again, a winner for this fan of historical fiction!
1. I really enjoyed listening to Shelley Noble's book The Tiffany Girls last summer (a 5-star read, in my opinion,) so I added this one to my WTR list;
2. I'm a huge fan of quality historical fiction, and the audiobook is available on Hoopla; and,
3. February 2026 is my "C and D Titles" Month!
Praises:
1. the personal lives of the "Colony Club" women (real and imagined) intertwined nicely with the rich historical background;
2. characters:
- (actual) - socialites Florence "Daisy" Harriman, Elisabeth "Bessie" Marbury, and Elsie de Wolfe all played vital roles in making The Colony Club (the first women's club in the US) come into fruition. Daisy's strong sense of social justice, Bessie's clout with influential people, and Elsie's eye for style were three intriguing women that had me researching their backgrounds;
- (fictional) - Nora Bromley gave me a sense of the difficulties women architects faced in the misogynistic NYC society during the turn of the 20th century. While working in a male-dominated profession, I could cheer on and agonize with her through her working conditions and various relationships, be it family, friends, and colleagues;
3. once again, Noble does a fine job detailing women's rights (or lack thereof) during this time period;
4. the Author's Note is a must-read/listen; and,
5. narrator Caroline Hewitt continues to enthrall me with her pleasant and effortless delivery of the storyline.
Niggles: None!
Overall Thoughts:
Another 5-star historical fictional story from Noble where I learned something new about strong influential women without being bombarded by overwhelming romantic plots. I have already added her soon-to-be published book The Sisters of Book Row to my WTR list.
Once again, a winner for this fan of historical fiction!
October 13, 2024
Daisy Harriman is mad when she refused a room at the Waldorf because they don’t cater to unaccompanied females, she’s an adult, wife and mother and yet she can’t say in a hotel on her own.
Men have gentleman’s clubs, where they can sit around, chat, eat and have a drink and stay the night and she decides to build something that caters for ladies. Daisy and her friends come up with the idea to open the first female club in Manhattan, it will be called The Colony Club, here they can dine, discuss ideas, social issues (such as reducing the long working hours for children) and try and bring about change.
Daisy hires flamboyant Stanford White a partner of the well known architectural firm McKim, Mead and White in New York to design the clubhouse. Elise de Wolfe is an actress, her career is coming to an end and she’s good friends with Daisy Harriman. She's given the task of designing and furnishing the clubhouse's interior, she up for the challenge, men wouldn't know what women wanted.
Nora Bromely was raised in Brooklyn, she’s determined to become an architect and has recently finished her studies at New York School of Applied Design for Women. She’s shocked when Stanford White offers her a job as a draftsman, when she starts work and she’s the only women employed and is the brunt of sabotage and bullying by her male colleagues.
Nora has put up with this treatment for months, she feels angry and let down when she’s sent to help Elsie de Wolfe and Daisy Harriman. George Douglas is overseeing the building of The Colony Club, he informs Nora it’s not a step backwards, but a chance to learn and gain valuable experience.
The Colony Club is almost finished when Stanford White is caught up in a tragic scandal, Daisy, Elsie and Nora are determined for it to not delay the clubs opening and for Nora her job and hours of contribution to the project, reputation and future is on the line.
I received a copy of The Colony Club from HarperCollins and Edelweiss Plus in exchange for an unbiased review. A well written and interesting historical fiction story by Shelley Nobel and she uses two real women as inspiration for her latest novel. It looks at the challenges women faced at the time and it starts just before the Gilded Age, especially Nora, a woman working in a man’s world and I really admired her charter in the narrative, she was talented, resilient and she had spunk and wanted to provide a better life for her mother and younger sister.
Five stars from me and I highly recommend The Colony Club.
Men have gentleman’s clubs, where they can sit around, chat, eat and have a drink and stay the night and she decides to build something that caters for ladies. Daisy and her friends come up with the idea to open the first female club in Manhattan, it will be called The Colony Club, here they can dine, discuss ideas, social issues (such as reducing the long working hours for children) and try and bring about change.
Daisy hires flamboyant Stanford White a partner of the well known architectural firm McKim, Mead and White in New York to design the clubhouse. Elise de Wolfe is an actress, her career is coming to an end and she’s good friends with Daisy Harriman. She's given the task of designing and furnishing the clubhouse's interior, she up for the challenge, men wouldn't know what women wanted.
Nora Bromely was raised in Brooklyn, she’s determined to become an architect and has recently finished her studies at New York School of Applied Design for Women. She’s shocked when Stanford White offers her a job as a draftsman, when she starts work and she’s the only women employed and is the brunt of sabotage and bullying by her male colleagues.
Nora has put up with this treatment for months, she feels angry and let down when she’s sent to help Elsie de Wolfe and Daisy Harriman. George Douglas is overseeing the building of The Colony Club, he informs Nora it’s not a step backwards, but a chance to learn and gain valuable experience.
The Colony Club is almost finished when Stanford White is caught up in a tragic scandal, Daisy, Elsie and Nora are determined for it to not delay the clubs opening and for Nora her job and hours of contribution to the project, reputation and future is on the line.
I received a copy of The Colony Club from HarperCollins and Edelweiss Plus in exchange for an unbiased review. A well written and interesting historical fiction story by Shelley Nobel and she uses two real women as inspiration for her latest novel. It looks at the challenges women faced at the time and it starts just before the Gilded Age, especially Nora, a woman working in a man’s world and I really admired her charter in the narrative, she was talented, resilient and she had spunk and wanted to provide a better life for her mother and younger sister.
Five stars from me and I highly recommend The Colony Club.
October 14, 2024
The Colony Club by Shelley Noble imagines the story of three captivating women at the beginning of 20th-century New York.
Daisy Harriman makes her mark as a trailblazer in creating first women’s club when such spaces were meant only for men. It all began when she was refused a room at the Waldorf in 1902 because she was not accompanied by a man.
Daisy turned this obstacle into action. However, founding a club at a time when women needed man’s permission for nearly any action wasn’t easy. It took two years for the club to be fully formed, as some women were forbidden by their husbands to join. But Daisy persisted, seeing the bigger picture. She envisioned a place where women could be themselves without chaperones, where they could freely discuss the issues that mattered to them. She wanted women to have a voice.
After two years of struggle to establish the Colony Club, both in name and physical form, Daisy’s privileged life contrasts sharply with that of Nora, a fictional character representing the women of her time who aspired to be architects but found it difficult to secure permanent positions. Many worked as independent contractors, a reality portrayed through Nora’s story.
At the end of Nora’s study, she enters a competition that she wins, leading her to independent work with McKim, Mead and White. At the time, Stanford White was the most sought-after architect in New York, and Daisy hired him to design the clubhouse. When Nora becomes involved in the project, her path crosses with Elsie de Wolfe. Elsie, known more for her fashion than her acting, was encouraged by her powerful agent, Bessie Marbury, to pursue interior decorating. Thus, two creative minds - Nora and Elsie - come together. Elsie, though gifted in design, lacks the ability to draw, which is where Nora’s skills come in. Elsie’s lavish imagination is translated onto paper by Nora.
The story follows the actions of these three women. Daisy engages in philanthropic efforts, and during her time in France, she learns about progressive law of ten-hour workdays for children, hoping to pass something half as enlightened in the States. Elsie’s opulent and costly decorative pursuits offer a vivid glimpse into the Gilded Age New York. Meanwhile, Nora faces hostility and sabotage from her male colleagues as she fights for recognition in her field.
As the Colony Club is taking shape, the lives of the three characters are suddenly shaken by the murder of Stanford White, whose scandalous personal life comes to life during his trial.
The novel embodies determination, the overcoming of prejudices, and the coming together of individuals to fulfill a dream with a larger purpose – a place that nurtures social justices.
Written with engaging prose, this fascinating story reveals a rich historical background and explores the intriguing mystery of a man whose life’s work is tarnished by revelations that emerge after his death.
I found the pace uneven, thus 4 stars.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Daisy Harriman makes her mark as a trailblazer in creating first women’s club when such spaces were meant only for men. It all began when she was refused a room at the Waldorf in 1902 because she was not accompanied by a man.
Daisy turned this obstacle into action. However, founding a club at a time when women needed man’s permission for nearly any action wasn’t easy. It took two years for the club to be fully formed, as some women were forbidden by their husbands to join. But Daisy persisted, seeing the bigger picture. She envisioned a place where women could be themselves without chaperones, where they could freely discuss the issues that mattered to them. She wanted women to have a voice.
After two years of struggle to establish the Colony Club, both in name and physical form, Daisy’s privileged life contrasts sharply with that of Nora, a fictional character representing the women of her time who aspired to be architects but found it difficult to secure permanent positions. Many worked as independent contractors, a reality portrayed through Nora’s story.
At the end of Nora’s study, she enters a competition that she wins, leading her to independent work with McKim, Mead and White. At the time, Stanford White was the most sought-after architect in New York, and Daisy hired him to design the clubhouse. When Nora becomes involved in the project, her path crosses with Elsie de Wolfe. Elsie, known more for her fashion than her acting, was encouraged by her powerful agent, Bessie Marbury, to pursue interior decorating. Thus, two creative minds - Nora and Elsie - come together. Elsie, though gifted in design, lacks the ability to draw, which is where Nora’s skills come in. Elsie’s lavish imagination is translated onto paper by Nora.
The story follows the actions of these three women. Daisy engages in philanthropic efforts, and during her time in France, she learns about progressive law of ten-hour workdays for children, hoping to pass something half as enlightened in the States. Elsie’s opulent and costly decorative pursuits offer a vivid glimpse into the Gilded Age New York. Meanwhile, Nora faces hostility and sabotage from her male colleagues as she fights for recognition in her field.
As the Colony Club is taking shape, the lives of the three characters are suddenly shaken by the murder of Stanford White, whose scandalous personal life comes to life during his trial.
The novel embodies determination, the overcoming of prejudices, and the coming together of individuals to fulfill a dream with a larger purpose – a place that nurtures social justices.
Written with engaging prose, this fascinating story reveals a rich historical background and explores the intriguing mystery of a man whose life’s work is tarnished by revelations that emerge after his death.
I found the pace uneven, thus 4 stars.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2024
Available Today 10/01/2024
I just love reading books about the Gilded Age. This is a very interesting Historical Fiction Novel featuring women establishing a club for women only. The characters are real and fictional. Daisy Harriman is a real person who is furious when she is denied a room at the Waldorf because she is an unaccompanied female. She decides to take things in her own hands. She plans on opening her own club just like the men have.
The story begins in 1963 when Daisy is being interviewed after receiving the prestigious President Kennedy citation of merit award. She reflects throughout the book on her life and how The Colony Club was created.
Daisy hires the best architect in New York City, Stanford White. He employs, Nora Bromely to be an architect in his all male firm. Nora is thrilled with the opportunity.
The men treat her badly. They pull pranks and sabotage to discourage her. But they do not win. Nora endures it all. She becomes very disappointed when he reassigns her to be the assistant to the designer on the Colony Club.
This was a captivating story with real and fictional characters. It was very well researched. I just loved reading about Nora and what she was up to next. There was no stopping this woman. She was a very strong willed woman who wanted to be an architect.
A compelling story.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for this advanced readers copy.
I just love reading books about the Gilded Age. This is a very interesting Historical Fiction Novel featuring women establishing a club for women only. The characters are real and fictional. Daisy Harriman is a real person who is furious when she is denied a room at the Waldorf because she is an unaccompanied female. She decides to take things in her own hands. She plans on opening her own club just like the men have.
The story begins in 1963 when Daisy is being interviewed after receiving the prestigious President Kennedy citation of merit award. She reflects throughout the book on her life and how The Colony Club was created.
Daisy hires the best architect in New York City, Stanford White. He employs, Nora Bromely to be an architect in his all male firm. Nora is thrilled with the opportunity.
The men treat her badly. They pull pranks and sabotage to discourage her. But they do not win. Nora endures it all. She becomes very disappointed when he reassigns her to be the assistant to the designer on the Colony Club.
This was a captivating story with real and fictional characters. It was very well researched. I just loved reading about Nora and what she was up to next. There was no stopping this woman. She was a very strong willed woman who wanted to be an architect.
A compelling story.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for this advanced readers copy.
July 27, 2025
Nora Bromley has always wanted to be an architect. Only one major problem. She is a woman. And back in 1902 such a thing was unheard of.
I really liked Nora and her fight against the prejudices of men, even though she does get a tad whiny and self-pitying, but not without good reason a lot of the time.
Interesting to read the author’s note at the end about the real historical figures. Have to say the fictional Nora was my favourite of all. Elsie is a force to be reckoned with as she undergoes a huge change of career. Elsie is pivotal to the Colony Club as is Daisy Harriman, a society Martin. It is Daisy who first comes up with the concept of a women’s club after being refused a room at the Waldorf Hotel because she is a woman on her own. She resolves to provide a club for women where they can gather, chat, dine, stay overnight, learn from others and basically relax away from the home and family for a while, as men do on their men’s clubs. Daisy hires renowned architect Stanford White to design the clubhouse. The idea gathers momentum quickly as more women hear about the club. But there are plenty who object and they hit more than a few problems along the way. But no-one is prepared for the event that nearly destroys all their hard-won plans. The story took a turn this reader definitely wasn’t expecting, but it is based on historical events, which I knew nothing about.
It is Elsie who as an old lady tells the story of the inception and building of the Colony Club to the female journalist in 1963. A great read as women struggle to overcome obstacles.
I really liked Nora and her fight against the prejudices of men, even though she does get a tad whiny and self-pitying, but not without good reason a lot of the time.
Interesting to read the author’s note at the end about the real historical figures. Have to say the fictional Nora was my favourite of all. Elsie is a force to be reckoned with as she undergoes a huge change of career. Elsie is pivotal to the Colony Club as is Daisy Harriman, a society Martin. It is Daisy who first comes up with the concept of a women’s club after being refused a room at the Waldorf Hotel because she is a woman on her own. She resolves to provide a club for women where they can gather, chat, dine, stay overnight, learn from others and basically relax away from the home and family for a while, as men do on their men’s clubs. Daisy hires renowned architect Stanford White to design the clubhouse. The idea gathers momentum quickly as more women hear about the club. But there are plenty who object and they hit more than a few problems along the way. But no-one is prepared for the event that nearly destroys all their hard-won plans. The story took a turn this reader definitely wasn’t expecting, but it is based on historical events, which I knew nothing about.
It is Elsie who as an old lady tells the story of the inception and building of the Colony Club to the female journalist in 1963. A great read as women struggle to overcome obstacles.
June 28, 2024
The Colony Club is an inspiring, powerful tribute to the Gilded Age women who broke through barriers to create their own place in the world. This impeccably researched story features real events and people in history, spotlighting the amazing feats women can accomplish when they support each other.
October 1, 2024
You can find The Colony Club on sale today!!
Imagine you want to travel out of town to visit New York City. You’re a wife, mother and a wealthy socialite but you’re refused a room at the Waldorf because you’re traveling alone. What?! But Daisy Harriman our Gilded Age heroine isn’t going to stand for it! Daisy decides to start a social club for women in the heart of Manhattan. A place for women to gather socially, share a meal, attend meetings on some of the days most important topics, and spend the night when visting from out of town. She won’t do it alone however and brings in many of her wealthy and well connected friends to plan and execute her ideas. Daisy isn’t the only woman who is taking a stand and challenging the male dominated society of that age though. We also meet Nora Bromley, a young female architect fresh out of school. Nora is talented and is offered a job as a draftsman at one of New York’s most well established firms. She is the only female in the department. She must fight discrimination and bullying daily from the men that she works with, and even fight off a scandal she is drawn into thru no fault of her own which causes her to lose her apartment, and draw the ire of some of her friends and family. Nora rises to the challenges and soon she is working on the Colony Club project. Nora is assigned to work with Elsie de Wolfe, an actress in NYC whose acting career is faltering, but whose artistic flair in decorating is attracting admirers. Elsie will design the interior of the Colony Club with Nora by her side. This job was usually left to the male architects who designed the buildings so Elsie becomes a pioneer in interior design!
This is a wonderfully written and engaging historical fiction. The characters are full of life and inspiring as they challenge many of the norms of their day, paving the way for the women in their own era and for those who will follow in the future. Truly a delightful read! Be sure to read the author’s note at the end!
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced reader copy!
Imagine you want to travel out of town to visit New York City. You’re a wife, mother and a wealthy socialite but you’re refused a room at the Waldorf because you’re traveling alone. What?! But Daisy Harriman our Gilded Age heroine isn’t going to stand for it! Daisy decides to start a social club for women in the heart of Manhattan. A place for women to gather socially, share a meal, attend meetings on some of the days most important topics, and spend the night when visting from out of town. She won’t do it alone however and brings in many of her wealthy and well connected friends to plan and execute her ideas. Daisy isn’t the only woman who is taking a stand and challenging the male dominated society of that age though. We also meet Nora Bromley, a young female architect fresh out of school. Nora is talented and is offered a job as a draftsman at one of New York’s most well established firms. She is the only female in the department. She must fight discrimination and bullying daily from the men that she works with, and even fight off a scandal she is drawn into thru no fault of her own which causes her to lose her apartment, and draw the ire of some of her friends and family. Nora rises to the challenges and soon she is working on the Colony Club project. Nora is assigned to work with Elsie de Wolfe, an actress in NYC whose acting career is faltering, but whose artistic flair in decorating is attracting admirers. Elsie will design the interior of the Colony Club with Nora by her side. This job was usually left to the male architects who designed the buildings so Elsie becomes a pioneer in interior design!
This is a wonderfully written and engaging historical fiction. The characters are full of life and inspiring as they challenge many of the norms of their day, paving the way for the women in their own era and for those who will follow in the future. Truly a delightful read! Be sure to read the author’s note at the end!
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced reader copy!
October 4, 2024
I received a copy for review purposes; all opinions are honest and mine alone.
Taking place during the Guilded Age, THE COLONY CLUB, by Shelley Noble, is an historical fiction novel that’s a deft blend of real people and events supported by characters from the mind of this talented writer. Noble employs dual timelines but I found them difficult. Fortunately, the two time periods are not a critical factor for the telling of this story. I suggest reading the author’s note prior to starting the story. It will help readers understand the historical significance behind this intriguing story.
Much of the story focuses on building the actual COLONY CLUB - a social club completely dedicated to women. It’s a real building still in existence today. The actual club membership grew so large the women needed a larger building so the club was moved and still serves women today, altho’ men can visit now. The key characters are a blend of real and fictional women who are strong, resilient and supportive of each other. It was impressive to watch their interactions over the vast divide between their social statuses. Men are split into antagonists or mild love interests/mentors. Their roles are minor, compared to the women.
My favorite group of characters was the secretaries at the architecture office. Diverse in backgrounds and skills, these girls all rallied together and provided support in a male dominated environment. This was a tough time period for women and Noble does an admirable job presenting the challenges without being snarky towards the men.
Architecture, Interior Design, Healthcare, Women’s Rights & Roles, Integrity, Reputation, Family, Education - these are key themes in this book. Add in a murder, trial and an unstable, unreliable class that usually narrates life and you’ve got the makings of an important historical snapshot in time📚
Read and Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC with thanks
Taking place during the Guilded Age, THE COLONY CLUB, by Shelley Noble, is an historical fiction novel that’s a deft blend of real people and events supported by characters from the mind of this talented writer. Noble employs dual timelines but I found them difficult. Fortunately, the two time periods are not a critical factor for the telling of this story. I suggest reading the author’s note prior to starting the story. It will help readers understand the historical significance behind this intriguing story.
Much of the story focuses on building the actual COLONY CLUB - a social club completely dedicated to women. It’s a real building still in existence today. The actual club membership grew so large the women needed a larger building so the club was moved and still serves women today, altho’ men can visit now. The key characters are a blend of real and fictional women who are strong, resilient and supportive of each other. It was impressive to watch their interactions over the vast divide between their social statuses. Men are split into antagonists or mild love interests/mentors. Their roles are minor, compared to the women.
My favorite group of characters was the secretaries at the architecture office. Diverse in backgrounds and skills, these girls all rallied together and provided support in a male dominated environment. This was a tough time period for women and Noble does an admirable job presenting the challenges without being snarky towards the men.
Architecture, Interior Design, Healthcare, Women’s Rights & Roles, Integrity, Reputation, Family, Education - these are key themes in this book. Add in a murder, trial and an unstable, unreliable class that usually narrates life and you’ve got the makings of an important historical snapshot in time📚
Read and Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC with thanks
May 22, 2024
This was a new to be author with a book that sounded interesting. It is historical fiction--focusing on the creation of the actual real place The Colony Club...the first women's club in New York. The setting is the Gilded Age of New York high society. The book opens with a journalist doing an interview of Daisy Harriman--the original creator of The Colony Club. And she reflects on how it came into existence.
There are a few key narratives: Daisy, Elsie de Wolfe, and Nora Bromley. Each of them plays a key part in the creation of the club...as the creator, the first American female interior designer, and a female architect. Set amongst the story is the scandalous life of Stanford White--famous designer and architect. The author wove in many real characters amidst the fiction.
There is implied Lesbian relationship of Elsie and her partner--but it's always referred to as her partner or companion without any details. Only those who would know of the history would know their relationship.
I think Nora was my favorite character. Especially when she climbs the scaffolding! :)
I found it interesting, but it wasn't such that I couldn't put it down. It was just okay.
*I was given a complimentary copy of the book from the publishers and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
There are a few key narratives: Daisy, Elsie de Wolfe, and Nora Bromley. Each of them plays a key part in the creation of the club...as the creator, the first American female interior designer, and a female architect. Set amongst the story is the scandalous life of Stanford White--famous designer and architect. The author wove in many real characters amidst the fiction.
There is implied Lesbian relationship of Elsie and her partner--but it's always referred to as her partner or companion without any details. Only those who would know of the history would know their relationship.
I think Nora was my favorite character. Especially when she climbs the scaffolding! :)
I found it interesting, but it wasn't such that I couldn't put it down. It was just okay.
*I was given a complimentary copy of the book from the publishers and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
October 21, 2024
I love historical fiction books that are able to successfully transport me to worlds I knew little about and it's even better when they feature strong, trailblazing women.
Set in Gilded age New York City, this story blends fact with fiction and follows two women, one an aspiring architect and the other an actress turned interior designer, who both find themselves working on The Colony club building - the first women's only society club of its kind in the early 20th century.
Fascinating, inspiring and about a subject I didn't know about before picking the book up, this kept my interest from start to finish and resonates for women in the workplace today who are still dealing with gendered wage gaps and sexism.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the William Morrow for sending me a digital and physical copy in exchange for my honest review!
Set in Gilded age New York City, this story blends fact with fiction and follows two women, one an aspiring architect and the other an actress turned interior designer, who both find themselves working on The Colony club building - the first women's only society club of its kind in the early 20th century.
Fascinating, inspiring and about a subject I didn't know about before picking the book up, this kept my interest from start to finish and resonates for women in the workplace today who are still dealing with gendered wage gaps and sexism.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the William Morrow for sending me a digital and physical copy in exchange for my honest review!
September 2, 2025
Admired the premise of this story.
November 16, 2024
Historical fiction about the founding and building of the first club for women - The Colony Club. It still exists today and last month I was invited to a client dinner there. After seeing the space I knew I wanted to learn more and luckily had this on my shelves! The book was more about architecture than I anticipated but I enjoyed it!
January 26, 2025
A very entertaining and enlightening historical fiction novel featuring the culture and personalities of the Gilded Age in NYC, as well as the burgeoning suffragist and social issues.
Very well narrated by Caroline Hewitt.
Very well narrated by Caroline Hewitt.
February 15, 2026
2.5 This could have been named 'Nora the Architect Goes to Work' (to escape her obnoxious family). One of main characters disappears from the middle of the book, while interior design is written about in lengthy fashion, and you wonder if she is ever going to come back. Nothing much happens until about page 400. The book is unnecessarily long and unfortunately mostly dull.
October 20, 2025
4.5 stars. Solidly good historical fiction about society women starting the first women’s club in NYC and a female architect making her way in the world. Lots of real women (and a few men) mixed into the character lineup. This was a good light, but not too light, read.
October 20, 2024
Shelley Noble does such an unusually wonderful job of choosing unique subjects for her historical fiction novels, and The Colony Club continues in that tradition.
If you’re a New Yorker of familiar with city history you’ve likely heard of the Colony Club, but I had no idea of its history before reading this beyond a few bits and bobs about the original location. Noble takes some liberties with the story, but the creative touches are good ones, and the historical content is both well-researched and well told as a part of a semi-fictional narrative.
I love Noble’s characters, and I think she does well making them easy to root for without hobbling them with one-dimensionality.
The architectural history used here is pretty sound, and Noble does a wonderful job of bringing it to life in the context of the story.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
If you’re a New Yorker of familiar with city history you’ve likely heard of the Colony Club, but I had no idea of its history before reading this beyond a few bits and bobs about the original location. Noble takes some liberties with the story, but the creative touches are good ones, and the historical content is both well-researched and well told as a part of a semi-fictional narrative.
I love Noble’s characters, and I think she does well making them easy to root for without hobbling them with one-dimensionality.
The architectural history used here is pretty sound, and Noble does a wonderful job of bringing it to life in the context of the story.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
August 26, 2024
I love historical fiction, and what better era to choose than the Gilded Age? This was a time when women were starting to realize their worth, yearning for equality, and fighting for the rights of all. This was a very liberal era in certain circles. Of course, it sure helped if you had money!
Ms. Noble was certainly able to blend fact with just a touch of fiction and did it with elegance. She chose a complex subject, spun a tale (most of it historically factual), and pulled the reader into the era in a way that made me feel as if I were making history.
It is a perfect blending of fact and fiction.
*ARC was supplied by the publisher William Morrow Paperbacks, the author, and NetGalley.
Ms. Noble was certainly able to blend fact with just a touch of fiction and did it with elegance. She chose a complex subject, spun a tale (most of it historically factual), and pulled the reader into the era in a way that made me feel as if I were making history.
It is a perfect blending of fact and fiction.
*ARC was supplied by the publisher William Morrow Paperbacks, the author, and NetGalley.
June 10, 2025
I am having a hard time rating this book. It was good, a bit slow at times, but I really liked the characters of Nora and George but it wasn't what I was expecting. The plot was good, but I felt it just didn't go far enough. I wanted a bit more of Nora, and less of Elsie. Based on true events and I do recommend it to anyone interested in women's empowerment in the early 20th century.
June 26, 2025
L’hype era alto, ma non è stato ripagato.
Non conoscevo la storia del colony club ed è stato molto interessante scoprirla.
Un gruppo di donne diverse tra loro, chi semplice impiegata chi moglie di un banchiere, ma unite da un sogno: fondare il primo club femminile a New York.
Matte? Per tutti, ma alla fine hanno ottenuto quello che volevano.
Peccato le troppe descrizioni architettoniche che mi hanno un po annoiata.
Non conoscevo la storia del colony club ed è stato molto interessante scoprirla.
Un gruppo di donne diverse tra loro, chi semplice impiegata chi moglie di un banchiere, ma unite da un sogno: fondare il primo club femminile a New York.
Matte? Per tutti, ma alla fine hanno ottenuto quello che volevano.
Peccato le troppe descrizioni architettoniche che mi hanno un po annoiata.
January 24, 2026
the description of this book is a little misleading. Although the book is about the building of the Colony Club (the first women's club), it is not really a novel of the gilded age. Some of the ancillary characters are real gilded age socialites, but the main story is about Nora Bromely, a female architect working on the Colony Club, and her trials and tribulations trying to make her way in a male dominated field. I was pretty invested in Nora (although she was a real whiner) only to find out in the author's notes that she is completely fictional. Good but not great.
October 30, 2024
Audiobook.
I liked this one! About women in the early 1900s starting a social club and navigating the man’s world. An up and coming woman architect is helping build the club and another woman working alongside and establishing interior design as a profession. Would have liked a little more romance but maybe I’m just a wh*re!
I liked this one! About women in the early 1900s starting a social club and navigating the man’s world. An up and coming woman architect is helping build the club and another woman working alongside and establishing interior design as a profession. Would have liked a little more romance but maybe I’m just a wh*re!
August 16, 2024
The Colony Club by Shelley Noble is a great historical fiction that I enjoyed.
This was a great multiple voice, turn of the century, collective narrative that gave the reader a full view of what society, culture, and relationships were like at the beginning of the 20th century. Through the eyes of several women, we can see the struggles, difficulties, and landscapes that women had to endure, overcome, and wade through to have a voice. Through these stories, we can see the obstacles, but we can also see the beauty, strength, passion, and determination of these pioneers.
The author did a great job of painting a realistic picture, giving us images of a life and existence of another time, all the while keeping us engaged and entertained.
I liked this one.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/1/24.
This was a great multiple voice, turn of the century, collective narrative that gave the reader a full view of what society, culture, and relationships were like at the beginning of the 20th century. Through the eyes of several women, we can see the struggles, difficulties, and landscapes that women had to endure, overcome, and wade through to have a voice. Through these stories, we can see the obstacles, but we can also see the beauty, strength, passion, and determination of these pioneers.
The author did a great job of painting a realistic picture, giving us images of a life and existence of another time, all the while keeping us engaged and entertained.
I liked this one.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/1/24.
September 13, 2024
This is the type of book that I love to read: historical fiction based on the lives of trail blazing women. And then throw in a murder, and I’m sold! This novel features 2 real-life figures, society matron Daisy Harriman and glamorous actress Elsie de Wolfe, and 1 fictitious female architect, Nora Bromley, who come together to design and build the first women’s club in New York City during the Gilded Age. The women have to fight misogyny and overcome the scandal resulting from the murder of the primary architect on the project, Stanford White. l enjoy reading about high society during the Gilded Age, and this novel was clearly well researched. Unfortunately it didn’t grab my attention enough that I felt unable to put it down. I think I was anticipating more focus on the murder and subsequent trial, and not the day to day life of the 3 women during construction. 3.5/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
October 17, 2024
This book takes place during the Gilded Age which was an interesting and exciting time period in America. The Colony Club was created and established by strong women who created the first women only club. It was a place for women to dine, stay overnight unchaperoned, learn, share ideas and discuss social issues.
Some of Shelley Noble's characters are based on real women. Daisy was a socialite and her husband supported her endeavors which warmed my heart. Elsie was a beautiful former actress who became the first interior decorator in America. My favorite character, Nora, was a fictional character who was an architect in a male dominated field while caring for her family. When Stanford White, a real person and an architect, is murdered, the future of The Colony Club and these three women are at risk.
I enjoyed the story of these women and highly recommend the book! Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced reader copy!
Some of Shelley Noble's characters are based on real women. Daisy was a socialite and her husband supported her endeavors which warmed my heart. Elsie was a beautiful former actress who became the first interior decorator in America. My favorite character, Nora, was a fictional character who was an architect in a male dominated field while caring for her family. When Stanford White, a real person and an architect, is murdered, the future of The Colony Club and these three women are at risk.
I enjoyed the story of these women and highly recommend the book! Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced reader copy!
May 3, 2025
Sweet, Fast Paced Perspective of the Gilded Age
A cheerful, motivating, historical fiction book, about the beginning of the 20th century for the American high society in New York. Ambitious female characters from different venues of life come together around an inovative project: to create the first club for women. Different personal challenges are depicted: an achitect struggling to start a career in a male-dominated profession, an actress looking for a more suitable field of work, a socialite who is also fighting for justice and honorable causes, are the focal viewpoints for the unfolding of the story.
Interesting glimpse into a past society, where different values from ours, nowadays, were leading the show.
A cheerful, motivating, historical fiction book, about the beginning of the 20th century for the American high society in New York. Ambitious female characters from different venues of life come together around an inovative project: to create the first club for women. Different personal challenges are depicted: an achitect struggling to start a career in a male-dominated profession, an actress looking for a more suitable field of work, a socialite who is also fighting for justice and honorable causes, are the focal viewpoints for the unfolding of the story.
Interesting glimpse into a past society, where different values from ours, nowadays, were leading the show.
January 8, 2025
I had to wait to finish this because I was listening to it on Spotify and my hours ran out for the month 🫣
But I absolutely loved it!
Anyone who loves the early 1900s, whether it’s for the history or just the vibes, would love this. The characters had depth, were funny, caring, determined. At the end, I was kicking my feet and crying at the same time.
Learning about these women makes me want to go on a binge of everything I could possibly learn about them, including going to New York to visit the original building.
But I absolutely loved it!
Anyone who loves the early 1900s, whether it’s for the history or just the vibes, would love this. The characters had depth, were funny, caring, determined. At the end, I was kicking my feet and crying at the same time.
Learning about these women makes me want to go on a binge of everything I could possibly learn about them, including going to New York to visit the original building.
November 17, 2024
When I read the premise of women starting their own and the first club in NYC, I was intrigued, as i love women empowerment stories. However, the book and storyline unfolded rapidly and lacked the depth and character building I love. Just ok.
January 3, 2025
Great read.
Loved the character development in the story and
how the author made characters likable and unlikeable (nast) as I read I look up some of the characters and the author did a great job of following the history of the characters
Loved the character development in the story and
how the author made characters likable and unlikeable (nast) as I read I look up some of the characters and the author did a great job of following the history of the characters
May 9, 2025
A timely reminder that change takes persistence, power, and showing up
I came to The Colony Club expecting Gilded Age glamour. What I got was something far more inspiring—a story of women navigating (and manipulating) the rigid structures of power to make space for themselves and others.
As a woman who got her start later in life—divorced, MBA after kids, and now climbing the corporate ladder in a male-dominated industry—this book spoke to me in unexpected ways. The women in these pages didn’t wait for permission to lead; they found quiet, brilliant ways to build influence in a world that actively excluded them.
This book landed at the perfect time. With a new administration in office and our rights once again up for debate, The Colony Club reminded me that the fight for progress is long but not impossible. These women made change happen without protest signs or social media—but with resilience, strategy, and sisterhood. It inspired me to keep moving forward—both in the boardroom and in the streets.
Highly recommend for readers who love stories of historical feminism, quiet rebellion, and women who refuse to sit down.
I came to The Colony Club expecting Gilded Age glamour. What I got was something far more inspiring—a story of women navigating (and manipulating) the rigid structures of power to make space for themselves and others.
As a woman who got her start later in life—divorced, MBA after kids, and now climbing the corporate ladder in a male-dominated industry—this book spoke to me in unexpected ways. The women in these pages didn’t wait for permission to lead; they found quiet, brilliant ways to build influence in a world that actively excluded them.
This book landed at the perfect time. With a new administration in office and our rights once again up for debate, The Colony Club reminded me that the fight for progress is long but not impossible. These women made change happen without protest signs or social media—but with resilience, strategy, and sisterhood. It inspired me to keep moving forward—both in the boardroom and in the streets.
Highly recommend for readers who love stories of historical feminism, quiet rebellion, and women who refuse to sit down.
June 20, 2024
I enjoyed reading about this strong group of women! The creation of the first women’s social club by Daisy Harriman was more than I expected. It seems like the beginning of her lifelong work as an organizer and social reformer for causes such as women’s suffrage, tuberculosis treatment, working and living conditions, child labor laws, food purity and more. I’d love to read more on her! Elsie de Wolfe, considered the first interior designer, and Stanford White, the architect with a controversial private life were interesting too. But my favorite character was probably Nora, who was fictional. She depicted a single woman who worked hard to become known as an architect in her own right and her struggles to get there. She came into her own. I didn’t love the side story with her family, that could’ve been better or just left out. I’d love to see this become a series that delves more into each of these women because I feel like I only got a taste. I’ll definitely try this author again.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins Publishers for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins Publishers for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review
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