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The Wedding Veil
The New York Times bestselling author of Under the Southern Sky and the Peachtree Bluff series brings “her signature wit, charm, and heart” (Woman’s World) to this sweeping new novel following four women across generations, bound by a beautiful wedding veil and a connection to the famous Vanderbilt family.
Four women. One family heirloom. A secret connection that will change their lives—and history as they know it.
Present Day: Julia Baxter’s wedding veil, bequeathed to her great-grandmother by a mysterious woman on a train in the 1930s, has passed through generations of her family as a symbol of a happy marriage. But on the morning of her wedding day, something tells her that even the veil’s good luck isn’t enough to make her marriage last forever. Overwhelmed and panicked, she escapes to the Virgin Islands to clear her head. Meanwhile, her grandmother Babs is also feeling shaken. Still grieving the death of her beloved husband, she decides to move out of the house they once shared and into a retirement community. Though she hopes it’s a new beginning, she does not expect to run into an old flame, dredging up the same complicated emotions she felt a lifetime ago.
1914: Socialite Edith Vanderbilt is struggling to manage the luxurious Biltmore Estate after the untimely death of her cherished husband. With 250 rooms to oversee and an entire village dependent on her family to stay afloat, Edith is determined to uphold the Vanderbilt legacy—and prepare her free-spirited daughter Cornelia to inherit it—in spite of her family’s deteriorating financial situation. But Cornelia has dreams of her own. Asheville, North Carolina has always been her safe haven away from the prying eyes of the press, but as she explores more of the rapidly changing world around her, she’s torn between upholding tradition and pursuing the exciting future that lies beyond Biltmore’s gilded gates.
In the vein of Therese Anne Fowler’s A Well-Behaved Woman and Jennifer Robson’s The Gown, The Wedding Veil brings to vivid life a group of remarkable women forging their own paths—and explores the mystery of a national heirloom lost to time.
Four women. One family heirloom. A secret connection that will change their lives—and history as they know it.
Present Day: Julia Baxter’s wedding veil, bequeathed to her great-grandmother by a mysterious woman on a train in the 1930s, has passed through generations of her family as a symbol of a happy marriage. But on the morning of her wedding day, something tells her that even the veil’s good luck isn’t enough to make her marriage last forever. Overwhelmed and panicked, she escapes to the Virgin Islands to clear her head. Meanwhile, her grandmother Babs is also feeling shaken. Still grieving the death of her beloved husband, she decides to move out of the house they once shared and into a retirement community. Though she hopes it’s a new beginning, she does not expect to run into an old flame, dredging up the same complicated emotions she felt a lifetime ago.
1914: Socialite Edith Vanderbilt is struggling to manage the luxurious Biltmore Estate after the untimely death of her cherished husband. With 250 rooms to oversee and an entire village dependent on her family to stay afloat, Edith is determined to uphold the Vanderbilt legacy—and prepare her free-spirited daughter Cornelia to inherit it—in spite of her family’s deteriorating financial situation. But Cornelia has dreams of her own. Asheville, North Carolina has always been her safe haven away from the prying eyes of the press, but as she explores more of the rapidly changing world around her, she’s torn between upholding tradition and pursuing the exciting future that lies beyond Biltmore’s gilded gates.
In the vein of Therese Anne Fowler’s A Well-Behaved Woman and Jennifer Robson’s The Gown, The Wedding Veil brings to vivid life a group of remarkable women forging their own paths—and explores the mystery of a national heirloom lost to time.
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2022
922 people are currently reading
32739 people want to read
About the author
Kristy Woodson Harvey
17 books6,914 followersKristy Woodson Harvey is the New York Times, USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of eleven novels including A Happier Life, The Summer of Songbirds, and The Peachtree Bluff Series. Many of her books have been optioned or are in development for television and film and have received numerous accolades, including Good Morning America’s Buzz Pick, Southern Living’s Most Anticipated Reads, Katie Couric’s Featured Books, and Joanna Garcia Swisher’s The Happy Place Read. Kristy is the winner of the Lucy Bramlette Patterson Award for Excellence in Creative Writing and a finalist for the Southern Book Prize.
A Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s school of journalism, her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including Southern Living, Parade, Traditional Home, USA TODAY, and many more. She also holds a master’s in English, with a concentration in multicultural and transnational literature.
Kristy is the cocreator and cohost of the weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction with fellow New York Times Bestselling authors Mary Kay Andrews, Kristin Harmel, and Patti Callahan Henry. She is also the co-founder of the interiors site Design Chic, with her mom, Beth Woodson.
She lives on the North Carolina coast with her husband, son, and dog, Salt, where she is (always!) working on her next novel.
A Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s school of journalism, her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including Southern Living, Parade, Traditional Home, USA TODAY, and many more. She also holds a master’s in English, with a concentration in multicultural and transnational literature.
Kristy is the cocreator and cohost of the weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction with fellow New York Times Bestselling authors Mary Kay Andrews, Kristin Harmel, and Patti Callahan Henry. She is also the co-founder of the interiors site Design Chic, with her mom, Beth Woodson.
She lives on the North Carolina coast with her husband, son, and dog, Salt, where she is (always!) working on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 1,499 reviews
November 10, 2021
Thanks so much to everyone who reads my first historical/contemporary novel. I am so thrilled to share it with you!
April 5, 2022
It’s no secret I love Kristy Woodson Harvey’s books. We share a beloved alma mater and a home state she features in many of her books, including this one. When I found out Kristy is releasing her first book with a historical fiction timeline, I was all in. A favorite author writing in your favorite genre? What’s not to love?! On top of it, the story features the beautiful Biltmore Estate and the Vanderbilts, an enthralling setting and family.
There’s also a contemporary timeline featuring Julia, who is about to get married in a wedding veil from her great-grandmother. This isn’t a spoiler because it’s in the synopsis, but Julia does not tie the knot on her wedding day. Instead, she runs all the way to her honeymoon destination, The Virgin Islands.
The historical timeline features Edith Vanderbilt, struggling to hold things together at the glorious Biltmore Estate after her husband passes away. Financially, things are not good.
Kristy’s first historical/contemporary crossover is a success. She has stayed true to her own style and characterization in both timelines. Just as with all her books, I gave this one a squeeze when I finished. The characters became part of my heart, and I’ll be thinking of them for a long time. I also would love to read more about the Vanderbilts!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
There’s also a contemporary timeline featuring Julia, who is about to get married in a wedding veil from her great-grandmother. This isn’t a spoiler because it’s in the synopsis, but Julia does not tie the knot on her wedding day. Instead, she runs all the way to her honeymoon destination, The Virgin Islands.
The historical timeline features Edith Vanderbilt, struggling to hold things together at the glorious Biltmore Estate after her husband passes away. Financially, things are not good.
Kristy’s first historical/contemporary crossover is a success. She has stayed true to her own style and characterization in both timelines. Just as with all her books, I gave this one a squeeze when I finished. The characters became part of my heart, and I’ll be thinking of them for a long time. I also would love to read more about the Vanderbilts!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
March 19, 2022
Five orange blossom stars for this utterly delightful upcoming release from Kristy Woodson Harvey. One veil, two timelines, and four women make up the narrative. There is a contemporary timeline presented by bride-to-be Julia and her grandmother Babs. The early 20th century timeline is narrated by Edith Dresser Vanderbilt and her daughter Cornelia Vanderbilt Cecil. The Vanderbilt Mansion is also a significant character in this story. For George it was a labor of love and Edith proudly worked to continue his legacy, but for Cornelia the strain of being in the public eye was just crushing after the 1929 crash. Having read The Last Castle: The Epic Story of Love, Loss, and American Royalty in the Nation's Largest Home several years ago, I especially enjoyed the opportunity to take a peek inside the lives of George's wife and daughter. The contemporary timeline adds a romantic comedy flair making this a two for one deal. It's like reading Susan Meissner, Beth O'Leary, and Nicholas Sparks all in one book. Definitely one of my favorites so far this year!
Thank you to Gallery Books and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Gallery Books and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2022
A legendary wedding veil ties several women together across the generations in Kristy Woodson Harvey's heartfelt latest, which features a runaway bride, her spirited grandmother, and a new love in the present day, interspersed with a historical storyline that follows Edith and Cornelia Vanderbilt, the mistresses of the Biltmore Estate in the early 20th century, as they struggle to keep their famed home afloat. From Asheville, N.C., to the British Virgin Islands, and from Manhattan to Raleigh, four women across the generations--all of them shaped by love and circumstance-- find a way to summon their inner strength against the odds. A delightful, glamorous fairy tale--laced with a slice of history, a bit of fashion, and a lot of Harvey's signature wit and warmth-- for those of us who know that 'happily ever after' only arrives after we've learned to stand on our own. A sparkling, fast-paced joy of a book that celebrates love, family and the right to shape one's own destiny.
March 14, 2022
Kristy Woodson Harvey's first historic fiction novel is a winner. Four women, apparently disconnected, all have a tie to the same heirloom wedding veil. I loved meeting these plucky, spirited women, and I know readers will love them just as much as I did.
March 28, 2022
The Wedding Veil by Kristy Woodson Harvey is a women’s fiction novel that does have a touch of reality involved with basing characters off the famous Vanderbilt family. The story in The Wedding Veil is one that is told by changing the point of view between multiple characters and also alternating timelines. Half of the story takes place in the past and the other half in the current time making it a mix of historical and contemporary with some romance and a bit of mystery.
The story in the past begins in 1879 with Edith’s mother telling her about her wedding veil and how she will one day wear it so she will have a wonderful and happy life with her future husband. In the present time Julia Baxter is about to get married to her long time on again and off again boyfriend. Julia is planning on wearing the wedding veil that has been passed down in her family since the 30s thought to bring good luck to all the brides. Instead of a wedding though Julia calls of the marriage when a video is found of the groom cheating with another woman.
The Wedding Veil by Kristy Woodson Harvey was a very multi layered story that you just know would at some point connect the characters from the past and the current. I loved that this veil meant so much to so many throughout the years and really enjoyed getting to know everyone along the way and watching the characters grow as the story unfolds in both timelines. I would call the romance within a bit on the lighter side and that was totally a good thing as it fit the rest of the story wonderfully. This was the second book I’d read by the author and again it did not disappoint at all leaving me wanting to return to her books in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The story in the past begins in 1879 with Edith’s mother telling her about her wedding veil and how she will one day wear it so she will have a wonderful and happy life with her future husband. In the present time Julia Baxter is about to get married to her long time on again and off again boyfriend. Julia is planning on wearing the wedding veil that has been passed down in her family since the 30s thought to bring good luck to all the brides. Instead of a wedding though Julia calls of the marriage when a video is found of the groom cheating with another woman.
The Wedding Veil by Kristy Woodson Harvey was a very multi layered story that you just know would at some point connect the characters from the past and the current. I loved that this veil meant so much to so many throughout the years and really enjoyed getting to know everyone along the way and watching the characters grow as the story unfolds in both timelines. I would call the romance within a bit on the lighter side and that was totally a good thing as it fit the rest of the story wonderfully. This was the second book I’d read by the author and again it did not disappoint at all leaving me wanting to return to her books in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2022
I just finished the Peachtree Bluff series (which I loved) so had high hopes for this new book. Unfortunately, it was such a disappointment! When you have two storylines simultaneously, they really need to be of equal interest & quality so that the reader doesn’t mind switching back & forth. The historical storyline with the Vanderbilts was SO boring. I was tempted to just skip ahead. Nothing interesting happened. I didn’t care about the characters. And Cornelia (especially at the end) just came across as a spoiled privileged woman. I thought the contemporary storyline was more interesting- Babs was #1 by far and the only reason I gave the book two stars.
March 9, 2022
This book was such a beautiful story. I always love Kristy's books, and this was no exception. A lovely, heartfelt novel.
Four woman connected by the Wedding Veil, a family heirloom. Going back and forth between present day, and 100 years before. Really such a great historical fiction book, with all the southern charm you expect from Kristy's books.
In present day we have Julie whim is set to marry, and wear the family wedding veil. It's supposed to bring good luck to whomever wears it. The morning of her wedding, after something happens at her shower, she's having second thoughts, and not feeling confident about getting married. She leaves and goes to the Virgin Islands by herself to figure out what she's really feeling. Her grandmother, Babs, still grieving her husband and moving into a retirement home. She ends up running into an ex from long ago, and now she doesn't know about these feelings that she's having.
In the past, in 1879, we have Edith Vanderbilt and her daughter Cornelia. Edith runs the Biltmore Estate in Asheville North Carolina. She has all hopes that Cornelia will take it over when she gets older. We get the history of this Wedding Veil, and how it connects to each of the women.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own!!
Four woman connected by the Wedding Veil, a family heirloom. Going back and forth between present day, and 100 years before. Really such a great historical fiction book, with all the southern charm you expect from Kristy's books.
In present day we have Julie whim is set to marry, and wear the family wedding veil. It's supposed to bring good luck to whomever wears it. The morning of her wedding, after something happens at her shower, she's having second thoughts, and not feeling confident about getting married. She leaves and goes to the Virgin Islands by herself to figure out what she's really feeling. Her grandmother, Babs, still grieving her husband and moving into a retirement home. She ends up running into an ex from long ago, and now she doesn't know about these feelings that she's having.
In the past, in 1879, we have Edith Vanderbilt and her daughter Cornelia. Edith runs the Biltmore Estate in Asheville North Carolina. She has all hopes that Cornelia will take it over when she gets older. We get the history of this Wedding Veil, and how it connects to each of the women.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own!!
January 20, 2023
Four women with a secret connection to a family heirloom that will change their lives. A historical fiction told in dual timeline set in Biltmore.
The present day storyline follows Julia who on the day of her wedding realizes that even the wedding veil, that has passed through generations of her family as a symbol of a happy marriage will not be enough to make this marriage last. She flees on her honeymoon to the Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, her grandmother Babs who is grieving the death of her husband decides to leave her home and move into a retirement community. Both women are looking for a new beginning and love is the last thing on their minds.
In 1914, Edith Vanderbilt is at a loss for how to keep up with the Biltmore Estate after her husband's death. Hoping to uphold the legacy and leave the house to her daughter Cornelia, she doesn't plan for what will happen when her daughter wants nothing to do with it.
This was a much more light hearted historical fiction novel than I typically read which I enjoyed. I visited Biltmore years ago and loved learning more about the family who built it. Of the two storylines, I have to say that I enjoyed the present day one more. For one reason in particular, Babs. She is a character that I just fell in love with. She reminded me of my own grandmother and I felt that her relationship with Julia would have been similar to the one I would have had with my grandma if she had not passed.
I'd recommend if you love historical fiction, romance, and books about forging your own path.
The present day storyline follows Julia who on the day of her wedding realizes that even the wedding veil, that has passed through generations of her family as a symbol of a happy marriage will not be enough to make this marriage last. She flees on her honeymoon to the Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, her grandmother Babs who is grieving the death of her husband decides to leave her home and move into a retirement community. Both women are looking for a new beginning and love is the last thing on their minds.
In 1914, Edith Vanderbilt is at a loss for how to keep up with the Biltmore Estate after her husband's death. Hoping to uphold the legacy and leave the house to her daughter Cornelia, she doesn't plan for what will happen when her daughter wants nothing to do with it.
This was a much more light hearted historical fiction novel than I typically read which I enjoyed. I visited Biltmore years ago and loved learning more about the family who built it. Of the two storylines, I have to say that I enjoyed the present day one more. For one reason in particular, Babs. She is a character that I just fell in love with. She reminded me of my own grandmother and I felt that her relationship with Julia would have been similar to the one I would have had with my grandma if she had not passed.
I'd recommend if you love historical fiction, romance, and books about forging your own path.
March 14, 2022
MUST READ! Kristy Woodson Harvey weds history and modern day into a fascinating and astonishing marriage. With Harvey’s signature charming and heartfelt prose, the Wedding Veil explores love in all its dazzling facets across four generations and two families. When Julia Baxter is ready to don the fabled family veil and walk down the aisle, she begins to question its mythological influence. Where did the veil and its power originate, and what could it possibly mean for her family and her love? Seeking answers to the extraordinary mystery of the Vanderbilt’s lost heirloom, Harvey unveils the past to bring truth to the future. Including an unrivaled and elegant Biltmore setting, The Wedding Veil is enchanting, surprising and Harvey at her story-telling best.
July 9, 2023
Check out my fun AuthorElevatorSeries Interview for all the exclusives. We go "behind the scenes" of the book, and some fun updates from and about the author. Her new puppy, update on her TV series, what she has been doing, her next book, and many more personal tantalizing tidbits! Do not forget to check out her exciting fun Book Tour, as well.
Exquisite! Her best yet.
A favorite Southern master storyteller and NYT bestselling author Kristy Woodson Harvey makes her entrance with grace and style with her first contemporary/historical fiction (inspired by real people and historical events) with THE WEDDING VEIL
The stunning inviting front cover with the elegant and iconic Biltmore House is a breathtaking backdrop for the four women across generations bound by a wedding veil heirloom and its connection to the famous Vanderbilt family. Yet, the story is much more. The author brilliantly explores the lives of these women and how they are shaped and connected.
Dual Timelines | Present Day:
Julie Baxter is preparing for her upcoming wedding to Hayes on the Biltmore House grounds, and her Grandmother, Babs (love), has passed down the family heirloom wedding veil for good luck. There is a lot of pressure surrounding this veil. When something occurs right before the wedding, that sends her running (rightly so and keeping her from making the biggest mistake of her life), her Grandmother Babs is there to drive the getaway car. (so much fun) Julia must do some soul searching about her life, future, past, and architectural career.
We then are transported to the picturesque British Virgin Islands, where Julie was to go on her honeymoon and now travels alone. She meets Connor (love), learns some hard facts about herself, and needs the courage to re-do her past and future separate from Hayes.
Not only does Julia, but her Grandmother Babs also has some difficult decisions to make. Her husband has passed, and she decides to go into assisted living. An old flame comes back into her life, she must decide if she wants to open her heart again for the future, no matter what others may say. Is she too old to experience love again?
Jules and Babs have a special relationship and love the letters between the two are charming. Kristy has a way with words, and you can tell she values family and has had some wise, strong women in her life.
Past 1879 I adore this history.
If you know the history of the Vanderbilts (Edith and George), you get to experience seeing and living at Biltmore through their eyes, to this iconic massive 250 room Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. George dies young, and Edith is left with this enormous house, employees, businesses, grounds, expenses, and upkeep on her own with a young daughter Cornelia.
Edith (love) is strong and courageous and thinks of ideas to keep George's legacy and some parts with her in the famous library (my favorite room) talking to his ghost.
As time moves on, Cornelia is grown, married, and has a family of her own, yet she wants a different life than Biltmore. Often we have to be brave enough to make our own decisions and not what our parents or family has planned. In order to keep up the financial end of Biltmore, they must open up the house for tours during trying times, and Cornelia has a hard time wrapping her head around it. She wants something different.
Then there is the ongoing mystery of the wedding veil, which keeps you turning the pages about how these families are connected. She balances emotion, loss, pain, love, history, and humor for an unforgettable story and characters that come alive on the page.
In THE WEDDING VEIL, Kristy masterfully explores how four generations of women bring their own personal histories to a family heirloom wedding veil. This beautiful and poignant novel evokes what invisible threads bind us and at the same time gives us the strength to make our own decisions for self-discovery.
Meticulously researched, a perfect blending of past and present, and fact and fiction. Each timeline was equally as compelling.
I enjoyed Kristy's author's note, research, and the inspiration behind the book. A poignant and deeply moving novel about how a wedding veil can define a family and how a family can lovingly reinvent itself.
While this is not her first book with dual timelines and multi-generational characters with a blending of contemporary and historical. Back in 2016, with Lies and Other Acts of Love (another favorite), she features an unforgettable character, Lovey (Grandmother), and her past as well as her granddaughter, Annabelle.
However, THE WEDDING VEIL is the first historical/contemporary based on live events/characters— Biltmore and the Vanderbilt family. Once again, she creates a wise, funny, relatable, and strong grandmother influence in Babs for granddaughter, Jules. We all wish we had a Babs/Lovey person in our lives.
MOVIE-WORTHY! This book would make for a spectacular movie or tv series. I would also love a sequel to catch up with Connor/Julia and Miles/Babs and more about the enigmatic Cornelia and her life after leaving Biltmore and her three husbands. The minute I finished reading, I had to email Kristy.
Being an NC native, I adore Biltmore, rich in history and charm, and where I spent my first honeymoon (Grove Park Inn Asheville) and toured Biltmore and my second honeymoon in the Virgin Islands.
I am a massive fan of the author and cannot wait to see what she comes up with next. Since her debut, I have read every book, and fans of Emily Giffin, Patti Callahan, Therese Fowler, Brenda Janowitz, and Diane Chamberlain will love this one. Kristy will be the next Reece Witherspoon, I predict.
I am honored to be mentioned with all the other fine women in the book and am so grateful. Assured to be a big hit for readers of contemporary and historical.
A special thank you to the author and #GalleryBooks and the author for a print ARC to read, enjoy, and review. I also purchased the hardcover and cannot wait for it to arrive today.
Blog Review Posted: www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 +++
Top Books of 2022
April Must-Read Books
Pub Date: March 29, 2022
Exquisite! Her best yet.
A favorite Southern master storyteller and NYT bestselling author Kristy Woodson Harvey makes her entrance with grace and style with her first contemporary/historical fiction (inspired by real people and historical events) with THE WEDDING VEIL
The stunning inviting front cover with the elegant and iconic Biltmore House is a breathtaking backdrop for the four women across generations bound by a wedding veil heirloom and its connection to the famous Vanderbilt family. Yet, the story is much more. The author brilliantly explores the lives of these women and how they are shaped and connected.
Dual Timelines | Present Day:
Julie Baxter is preparing for her upcoming wedding to Hayes on the Biltmore House grounds, and her Grandmother, Babs (love), has passed down the family heirloom wedding veil for good luck. There is a lot of pressure surrounding this veil. When something occurs right before the wedding, that sends her running (rightly so and keeping her from making the biggest mistake of her life), her Grandmother Babs is there to drive the getaway car. (so much fun) Julia must do some soul searching about her life, future, past, and architectural career.
We then are transported to the picturesque British Virgin Islands, where Julie was to go on her honeymoon and now travels alone. She meets Connor (love), learns some hard facts about herself, and needs the courage to re-do her past and future separate from Hayes.
Not only does Julia, but her Grandmother Babs also has some difficult decisions to make. Her husband has passed, and she decides to go into assisted living. An old flame comes back into her life, she must decide if she wants to open her heart again for the future, no matter what others may say. Is she too old to experience love again?
Jules and Babs have a special relationship and love the letters between the two are charming. Kristy has a way with words, and you can tell she values family and has had some wise, strong women in her life.
Past 1879 I adore this history.
If you know the history of the Vanderbilts (Edith and George), you get to experience seeing and living at Biltmore through their eyes, to this iconic massive 250 room Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. George dies young, and Edith is left with this enormous house, employees, businesses, grounds, expenses, and upkeep on her own with a young daughter Cornelia.
Edith (love) is strong and courageous and thinks of ideas to keep George's legacy and some parts with her in the famous library (my favorite room) talking to his ghost.
As time moves on, Cornelia is grown, married, and has a family of her own, yet she wants a different life than Biltmore. Often we have to be brave enough to make our own decisions and not what our parents or family has planned. In order to keep up the financial end of Biltmore, they must open up the house for tours during trying times, and Cornelia has a hard time wrapping her head around it. She wants something different.
Then there is the ongoing mystery of the wedding veil, which keeps you turning the pages about how these families are connected. She balances emotion, loss, pain, love, history, and humor for an unforgettable story and characters that come alive on the page.
In THE WEDDING VEIL, Kristy masterfully explores how four generations of women bring their own personal histories to a family heirloom wedding veil. This beautiful and poignant novel evokes what invisible threads bind us and at the same time gives us the strength to make our own decisions for self-discovery.
Meticulously researched, a perfect blending of past and present, and fact and fiction. Each timeline was equally as compelling.
I enjoyed Kristy's author's note, research, and the inspiration behind the book. A poignant and deeply moving novel about how a wedding veil can define a family and how a family can lovingly reinvent itself.
While this is not her first book with dual timelines and multi-generational characters with a blending of contemporary and historical. Back in 2016, with Lies and Other Acts of Love (another favorite), she features an unforgettable character, Lovey (Grandmother), and her past as well as her granddaughter, Annabelle.
However, THE WEDDING VEIL is the first historical/contemporary based on live events/characters— Biltmore and the Vanderbilt family. Once again, she creates a wise, funny, relatable, and strong grandmother influence in Babs for granddaughter, Jules. We all wish we had a Babs/Lovey person in our lives.
MOVIE-WORTHY! This book would make for a spectacular movie or tv series. I would also love a sequel to catch up with Connor/Julia and Miles/Babs and more about the enigmatic Cornelia and her life after leaving Biltmore and her three husbands. The minute I finished reading, I had to email Kristy.
Being an NC native, I adore Biltmore, rich in history and charm, and where I spent my first honeymoon (Grove Park Inn Asheville) and toured Biltmore and my second honeymoon in the Virgin Islands.
I am a massive fan of the author and cannot wait to see what she comes up with next. Since her debut, I have read every book, and fans of Emily Giffin, Patti Callahan, Therese Fowler, Brenda Janowitz, and Diane Chamberlain will love this one. Kristy will be the next Reece Witherspoon, I predict.
I am honored to be mentioned with all the other fine women in the book and am so grateful. Assured to be a big hit for readers of contemporary and historical.
A special thank you to the author and #GalleryBooks and the author for a print ARC to read, enjoy, and review. I also purchased the hardcover and cannot wait for it to arrive today.
Blog Review Posted: www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 +++
Top Books of 2022
April Must-Read Books
Pub Date: March 29, 2022
February 20, 2023
KWH does it again!! This book was such a masterpiece and shows what a versatile author KWH is. This story follows two different families from two different generations and flows seamlessly back and forth.
In the early 20th century, the story alternates between chapters narrated by Edith Vanderbilt and her daughter Cornelia, who are challenged with running the Biltmore Estate after Edith's husband passed away. In the present day, the chapters alternate between Babs, a recently widowed 80-year-old who may have a second chance at love and her granddaughter Julia, a young architect-to-be who's always had her dream wedding and man planned out. The lives of the two families intermingle through a wedding veil that has been passed down within each family.
I love how this story examines Edith, Cornelia, Babs and Julia's perspective on love, family and education and discusses the societal pressures and challenges one faces when they are expected to follow a certain path, despite the time period. I am not one for historical romance, so at first, I only wanted to read about Julia and Babs' story in the present day, which were both so great. However, once I got to know a bit more about Edith and Cornelia, I found their lives fascinating to read about, especially during the Roaring 20s and start of the Great Depression. Overall, the story flew by quickly, and I wasn't ready for it end to end.
I will literally read anything and all that KWH writes. Thank you so much Gallery Books and NetGalley for this ARC! Pub date: 3/29/22
In the early 20th century, the story alternates between chapters narrated by Edith Vanderbilt and her daughter Cornelia, who are challenged with running the Biltmore Estate after Edith's husband passed away. In the present day, the chapters alternate between Babs, a recently widowed 80-year-old who may have a second chance at love and her granddaughter Julia, a young architect-to-be who's always had her dream wedding and man planned out. The lives of the two families intermingle through a wedding veil that has been passed down within each family.
I love how this story examines Edith, Cornelia, Babs and Julia's perspective on love, family and education and discusses the societal pressures and challenges one faces when they are expected to follow a certain path, despite the time period. I am not one for historical romance, so at first, I only wanted to read about Julia and Babs' story in the present day, which were both so great. However, once I got to know a bit more about Edith and Cornelia, I found their lives fascinating to read about, especially during the Roaring 20s and start of the Great Depression. Overall, the story flew by quickly, and I wasn't ready for it end to end.
I will literally read anything and all that KWH writes. Thank you so much Gallery Books and NetGalley for this ARC! Pub date: 3/29/22
October 30, 2021
I just read a modern day fairytale full of love and hope and family. Some heartbreak, some magical folklore, and such beauty. This book blends contemporary fiction and the historical. I can’t wait to learn more about the Vanderbilt ladies and where they lived
I loved this story. Kristy Woodson Harvey is amazing and fans of Nicholas sparks will love
I loved this story. Kristy Woodson Harvey is amazing and fans of Nicholas sparks will love
April 20, 2022
This engaging dual-timeline story starts in present-day Asheville, North Carolina. Julia Baxter is getting ready to marry her longtime boyfriend Hayes at the historic Biltmore Estate after years of breaking up and making up. But Hayes’ cheating ways have caught up to him and Julia decides to cancel the wedding the day of the big event. Julia won’t be wearing the family heirloom, a wedding veil with a history that has been a bit unclear. Julia decides to go on the honeymoon alone. The Wedding Veil shifts to the history of the Vanderbilt family when the Biltmore was the home of Edith and George and their daughter Cornelia. In 1924, as Cornelia prepares to marry, she plans to wear the family wedding veil. A modern day exhibit at the Biltmore, which displays Cornelia’s wedding gown, includes a reproduction of the famed veil, which was lost long ago. It happens to look almost exactly like the veil Julia had planned to wear at her wedding.
The story of Julia and her search for her happiness after she called off her wedding is an enjoyable one. Julia's relationship with her grandmother Babs is very special and is the true heart of the book. The parallel story of the fabulously wealthy Vanderbilt family shows the hardship they endured trying to preserve an estate that was next to impossible to run given its size and the state of the country during the Great Depression. I tended to favor the contemporary storyline but always enjoy reading about the lives of the Gilded Age families. Much has been written about the Vanderbilt women and this story provides a different and interesting perspective. Kristy Woodson Harvey, an excellent storyteller, takes us on a lovely and memorable journey tying two families together through the decades with one special wedding veil.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
The story of Julia and her search for her happiness after she called off her wedding is an enjoyable one. Julia's relationship with her grandmother Babs is very special and is the true heart of the book. The parallel story of the fabulously wealthy Vanderbilt family shows the hardship they endured trying to preserve an estate that was next to impossible to run given its size and the state of the country during the Great Depression. I tended to favor the contemporary storyline but always enjoy reading about the lives of the Gilded Age families. Much has been written about the Vanderbilt women and this story provides a different and interesting perspective. Kristy Woodson Harvey, an excellent storyteller, takes us on a lovely and memorable journey tying two families together through the decades with one special wedding veil.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
April 6, 2022
This is Kristy Woodson Harvey’s very first historical/contemporary novel and what a treat it is! The setting takes place at the beautiful Biltmore Estates with the Vanderbilt’s. Told in alternative POV’s, 4 women across the generations are all connected through a wedding veil. I could not put this book down once I started reading it. A fabulous book!
September 1, 2025
The Wedding Veil is a sweeping new release that follows four women across generations who are bound by a beautiful wedding veil and a connection to the famous Vanderbilt family.
On June 1, 1989, Edith Stuyvesant Dresser marries George Vanderbilt wearing her family’s treasured wedding veil. After her husband’s untimely death in 1914, Edit struggles to maintain their luxurious 250-room Biltmore Estate and leave it as a legacy for her free-spirited daughter, Cornelia.
In the present, Julia Baxter wears a wedding veil bequeathed to her great-grandmother by a stranger on a train in the 1930s, to her own fairytale wedding at the Biltmore Estate. When she learns of her fiancé’s infidelity, she leaves him at the altar. Centuries apart, the two women struggle to find their own paths despite the obstacles they face.
When I was first approved for a review copy of this book, I thought, why in the world did I request this? I don’t ever read chick lit! If it had a different title and cover image, I wouldn’t be embarrassed to admit how much I enjoyed it.
First, the pros. The historical references to the Vanderbilt family were fascinating. So fascinating, in fact, that one of my next reads will be Vanderbilt by Anderson Cooper (his mother was Gloria Vanderbilt) and author Katherine Howe. Kristy Woodson Harvey is a fine storyteller with likeable, complex characters.
The cons? I’m not a big fan of novels about high society and the Gilded Age, and some events and settings made me cringe. I found the multiple narratives disorienting—too many women, too many narratives. The historical details trump, though, so I give this book 4 stars.
On June 1, 1989, Edith Stuyvesant Dresser marries George Vanderbilt wearing her family’s treasured wedding veil. After her husband’s untimely death in 1914, Edit struggles to maintain their luxurious 250-room Biltmore Estate and leave it as a legacy for her free-spirited daughter, Cornelia.
In the present, Julia Baxter wears a wedding veil bequeathed to her great-grandmother by a stranger on a train in the 1930s, to her own fairytale wedding at the Biltmore Estate. When she learns of her fiancé’s infidelity, she leaves him at the altar. Centuries apart, the two women struggle to find their own paths despite the obstacles they face.
When I was first approved for a review copy of this book, I thought, why in the world did I request this? I don’t ever read chick lit! If it had a different title and cover image, I wouldn’t be embarrassed to admit how much I enjoyed it.
First, the pros. The historical references to the Vanderbilt family were fascinating. So fascinating, in fact, that one of my next reads will be Vanderbilt by Anderson Cooper (his mother was Gloria Vanderbilt) and author Katherine Howe. Kristy Woodson Harvey is a fine storyteller with likeable, complex characters.
The cons? I’m not a big fan of novels about high society and the Gilded Age, and some events and settings made me cringe. I found the multiple narratives disorienting—too many women, too many narratives. The historical details trump, though, so I give this book 4 stars.
March 22, 2022
Loved it
Absolutely positively LOVED it
And the last 20 pages were perfection. Pure magic.
Part historical fiction part contemporary fiction, The Wedding Veil follows the life of 2 families and a cherished wedding veil that has been instrumental for wedded bliss.
Modern day Julia doesn't think the veil can create a perfect marriage, so she escapes to her honeymoon, alone and unmarried, to figure out her future.
The past focuses on multiple generations of the Vanderbilt women, their loves and legacies, their marks left on the world.
There are so many love stories in this book, so many kinds of love, both familial and romantic, my heart swooned.
TBH, I really knew nothing of the Vanderbilts, so I found their story incredibly fascinating although I loved the modern story more, mostly because Julia's grandma, Babs, was the most beloved character. I also enjoyed watching Julia's evolution and I absolutely loved her honeymoon adventures, sans husband.
Absolutely positively LOVED it
And the last 20 pages were perfection. Pure magic.
Part historical fiction part contemporary fiction, The Wedding Veil follows the life of 2 families and a cherished wedding veil that has been instrumental for wedded bliss.
Modern day Julia doesn't think the veil can create a perfect marriage, so she escapes to her honeymoon, alone and unmarried, to figure out her future.
The past focuses on multiple generations of the Vanderbilt women, their loves and legacies, their marks left on the world.
There are so many love stories in this book, so many kinds of love, both familial and romantic, my heart swooned.
TBH, I really knew nothing of the Vanderbilts, so I found their story incredibly fascinating although I loved the modern story more, mostly because Julia's grandma, Babs, was the most beloved character. I also enjoyed watching Julia's evolution and I absolutely loved her honeymoon adventures, sans husband.
August 20, 2022
The Wedding Weil by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Thank you to Uplit Reads for this gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Present day: Julie Baxter’s wedding day is here and she has her family’s symbol for a happy marriage; her great grandmother’s veil gifted to her by a stranger on a train years ago. Julie quickly realizes that the veil is good luck enough to make her marriage last forever.
1914: Edith Vanderbilt is struggling to keep the Biltmore estate up and running after the untimely death of her husband. She wants her daughter Cornelia, to inherit the Estate but her daughter has other plans.
This book started out so strong for me but towards the middle it started to drag and I began to not care about the 1914 storyline. The way the two stories are connected was ridiculous.
Thank you to Uplit Reads for this gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Present day: Julie Baxter’s wedding day is here and she has her family’s symbol for a happy marriage; her great grandmother’s veil gifted to her by a stranger on a train years ago. Julie quickly realizes that the veil is good luck enough to make her marriage last forever.
1914: Edith Vanderbilt is struggling to keep the Biltmore estate up and running after the untimely death of her husband. She wants her daughter Cornelia, to inherit the Estate but her daughter has other plans.
This book started out so strong for me but towards the middle it started to drag and I began to not care about the 1914 storyline. The way the two stories are connected was ridiculous.
March 25, 2022
I have read all of Harvey's books. She can write such smooth easy reads that you can't put down. her latest is no different. First the cover is just gorgeous. The story is unforgettable. This is a must read and one you will cherish.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
March 25, 2022
A blend of the present and the past but with women that all want the same thing, happiness.
This fictionalized story of the Vanderbilt family and The Biltmore fascinated me and remind me of a couple of shows that are set in this same time period. To be that wealthy might have been nice but had its own share of problems. This story follows the life of Edith and Cornelia Vanderbilt (the past), and Julia and Babs (the present). Each family has a veil that has been passed down through the ages and is supposed to bring good luck. It might have been in the past, but when it was Julia's turn to marry she becomes the runaway bride. She may love Hayes and he might love her, but that doesn't mean that they belong together. An unsuspecting video puts Julia on another path to rediscover herself and what she wants from life. It also forces Babs (Julia's grandmother) to take a hard look at her own life since her husband's passing and is she living the life that she wants or deserves?
The story flips back and forth in time and we see the lives of these women unfold as they marry, discover themselves, and look to the future. Edith created the Biltmore estates and everything it entailed. That was a huge undertaking for her and her husband, George, but they did succeed. They have their ups and downs due to the times and even they were affected by the stock market crash in 1929. If you were wealthy even in these times you were looked at differently. Julia, an aspiring architect, has always admired this estate and chose to get married there. We learn that Julia has given up her dream of being an architect due to negative feedback from a professor. Instead of fighting for her project, she ran away. She ran away from her wedding too and she has a lot of soul searching to do to decide where she must land in this life.
We don't know the whole story about how Julia's family received the treasured veil, but bits and pieces are revealed and the full story is discovered in a letter that ties both stories together. It is a beautiful tale and gives one hope for happiness no matter what life throws at you.
Julia learns a lot about herself with the help of a new architect friend, Connor. He isn't present in the whole story but is at the beginning and the end. It was nice to see that he was not brought in too soon before Julia had a chance to discover who she was without Hayes (her former fiance) and how she was going to support herself.
I found the stories about Edith and Cornelia fascinating because that was a different time when women were expected to marry and raise a family. They didn't do much else and rarely had a career. However, Edith and Cornelia's running of the estate was quite an undertaking and I can't even imagine doing what they did to keep it afloat and supporting those that lived on the estate or in the village.
I appreciated the author's notes about how she came to write this story so make sure to check that out if you pick up this book.
Overall, we really enjoyed the story and give it 5 paws up.
This fictionalized story of the Vanderbilt family and The Biltmore fascinated me and remind me of a couple of shows that are set in this same time period. To be that wealthy might have been nice but had its own share of problems. This story follows the life of Edith and Cornelia Vanderbilt (the past), and Julia and Babs (the present). Each family has a veil that has been passed down through the ages and is supposed to bring good luck. It might have been in the past, but when it was Julia's turn to marry she becomes the runaway bride. She may love Hayes and he might love her, but that doesn't mean that they belong together. An unsuspecting video puts Julia on another path to rediscover herself and what she wants from life. It also forces Babs (Julia's grandmother) to take a hard look at her own life since her husband's passing and is she living the life that she wants or deserves?
The story flips back and forth in time and we see the lives of these women unfold as they marry, discover themselves, and look to the future. Edith created the Biltmore estates and everything it entailed. That was a huge undertaking for her and her husband, George, but they did succeed. They have their ups and downs due to the times and even they were affected by the stock market crash in 1929. If you were wealthy even in these times you were looked at differently. Julia, an aspiring architect, has always admired this estate and chose to get married there. We learn that Julia has given up her dream of being an architect due to negative feedback from a professor. Instead of fighting for her project, she ran away. She ran away from her wedding too and she has a lot of soul searching to do to decide where she must land in this life.
We don't know the whole story about how Julia's family received the treasured veil, but bits and pieces are revealed and the full story is discovered in a letter that ties both stories together. It is a beautiful tale and gives one hope for happiness no matter what life throws at you.
Julia learns a lot about herself with the help of a new architect friend, Connor. He isn't present in the whole story but is at the beginning and the end. It was nice to see that he was not brought in too soon before Julia had a chance to discover who she was without Hayes (her former fiance) and how she was going to support herself.
I found the stories about Edith and Cornelia fascinating because that was a different time when women were expected to marry and raise a family. They didn't do much else and rarely had a career. However, Edith and Cornelia's running of the estate was quite an undertaking and I can't even imagine doing what they did to keep it afloat and supporting those that lived on the estate or in the village.
I appreciated the author's notes about how she came to write this story so make sure to check that out if you pick up this book.
Overall, we really enjoyed the story and give it 5 paws up.
March 4, 2022
Name of Book: The Wedding Veil
Author: Kristy Woodson Harvey
Genre: Chick Lit/ Historical Fiction
Publisher: Gallery Books
Pub Date: March 29, 2022
My Rating: 4
Aww I was drawn to this novel as I like the Kristy Woodson Harvey, the cover and the title.
I have only read three of her stories and all were great! Stories are typically predictable but have KWH wit, charm, heart and an all-around feel good read.
This story is about four women ~ from two families in two different generations and a blend of modern day fiction and historical fiction
Present Day ~ Julie Baxter is preparing for her up-coming wedding. Her wedding veil (Thus the title) is a family heirloom given to her by her grandmother Babs and deemed to bring good luck.
Hmm however, something unexpected happens and Julie becomes a runaway bride and Grandmother Babs is driving the get-away car!
Past – 1879 ~ Edith Vanderbilt manages the 250 room Biltmore Estate in Asheville NC. Her story starts when she is nine years old. Story goes on both Edith and Cornelia Vanderbilt telling us what happened to the Vanderbilt wedding veil.
Awww….This story definitely left a smile on my face!
I also love reading the ‘Author’s Notes’ and/or ‘Acknowledgements’ and in this case I got BOTH.
To me the info is also the inside scoop to the author’s motivation. In the ‘Author’s Note’ Kristy Woodson Harvey tells us that she hopes her novel gave us readers a glimpse behind the curtain – perhaps inspired us to visit or return to the Biltmore Estate.
Yep! Mission accomplished ~ I am ready!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Gallery Books for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for March 29, 2022.
Author: Kristy Woodson Harvey
Genre: Chick Lit/ Historical Fiction
Publisher: Gallery Books
Pub Date: March 29, 2022
My Rating: 4
Aww I was drawn to this novel as I like the Kristy Woodson Harvey, the cover and the title.
I have only read three of her stories and all were great! Stories are typically predictable but have KWH wit, charm, heart and an all-around feel good read.
This story is about four women ~ from two families in two different generations and a blend of modern day fiction and historical fiction
Present Day ~ Julie Baxter is preparing for her up-coming wedding. Her wedding veil (Thus the title) is a family heirloom given to her by her grandmother Babs and deemed to bring good luck.
Hmm however, something unexpected happens and Julie becomes a runaway bride and Grandmother Babs is driving the get-away car!
Past – 1879 ~ Edith Vanderbilt manages the 250 room Biltmore Estate in Asheville NC. Her story starts when she is nine years old. Story goes on both Edith and Cornelia Vanderbilt telling us what happened to the Vanderbilt wedding veil.
Awww….This story definitely left a smile on my face!
I also love reading the ‘Author’s Notes’ and/or ‘Acknowledgements’ and in this case I got BOTH.
To me the info is also the inside scoop to the author’s motivation. In the ‘Author’s Note’ Kristy Woodson Harvey tells us that she hopes her novel gave us readers a glimpse behind the curtain – perhaps inspired us to visit or return to the Biltmore Estate.
Yep! Mission accomplished ~ I am ready!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Gallery Books for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for March 29, 2022.
April 20, 2022
A cute story of the lost wedding veil of Cornelia Vanderbuilt. Having been to see Biltmore a few years ago, I could envision the area.
I listened to this story of Julia Baxter, her grandmother Babbs, Cornelia Vanderbuilt, and her mother Edith. It took a look into the life of each woman - Edith the woman of Biltmore, Cornelia her daughter and the heir to Biltmore, Julia a young woman on the verge of her wedding, and Babbs an 80 year old grandmother who has her granddaughter's happiness at her heart. It was a story of happiness, love, and the life each woman wanted to live, and those brave enough to live it.
I enjoyed Julia and Babbs' story a little more, I guess Edith and Cornelia was just more a history of what they were like. But Babbs I think was my favorite. She had spunk at 80! Listening to the narrator of her it reminded me of Clairee from Steel Magnolias.
In all a very enjoyable read and would recommend to others for a very light romancy book, with a little history thrown in.
I listened to this story of Julia Baxter, her grandmother Babbs, Cornelia Vanderbuilt, and her mother Edith. It took a look into the life of each woman - Edith the woman of Biltmore, Cornelia her daughter and the heir to Biltmore, Julia a young woman on the verge of her wedding, and Babbs an 80 year old grandmother who has her granddaughter's happiness at her heart. It was a story of happiness, love, and the life each woman wanted to live, and those brave enough to live it.
I enjoyed Julia and Babbs' story a little more, I guess Edith and Cornelia was just more a history of what they were like. But Babbs I think was my favorite. She had spunk at 80! Listening to the narrator of her it reminded me of Clairee from Steel Magnolias.
In all a very enjoyable read and would recommend to others for a very light romancy book, with a little history thrown in.
November 22, 2021
I am a huge fan (almost stalker) of Kristy I cannot wait for new books to come out and I own every book by her that Amazon sells. That being said, this was not a “normal” story by her. This story was a mix of history and fiction. After reading it I want to read whatever I can find on the Vanderbilt family and their Biltmore mansion. I really enjoyed the story of Julia and her family and feel as if I know them personally. Of course the Vanderbilt family is way out of my league but I feel for Edith and how she tried so hard to keep her daughters legacy alive only to find that it wasn’t what her daughter wanted. I plan to preorder several of this book to give to my sister and sisters-in-law. I need someone to be able to talk about the story to and I know they will love and appreciate this story like I do.
March 23, 2022
I will read anything Kristy writes, I’ve loved all of her previous books that much but I have to admit historical fiction isn’t my favorite genre as of late. So I had a tiny little bit of hesitation before I started this but within a few chapters I knew I was in good hands, I should’ve known better because whatever she writes I now know I’ll love regardless of the genre.
While this one is set in the past it’s also set in current times as well so you get both HF and a contemporary and I adored both timelines. You have women spread over the past and present and they’re all tied together in a mysterious way connected to a gorgeous wedding veil. As usual this is full of rich descriptions of the scenery as well as well drawn characters, a group of strong and inspiring women who you’ll adore. There was something so beautiful about this book, it’s a real treasure and one that I just loved.
November 19, 2021
Kristy Woodson Harvey has a way with her words that transcend the page...her novels pull you in to the world from the moment you crack the spine. In her new novel, THE WEDDING VEIL, a departure from Harvey’s previous solely contemporary fiction, we begin on page one in 1879, in the world of young six year old Edith Dresser who would grow up to be legendary Edith Vanderbilt...and the prose is simply sublime. A writer’s first sentence tells you so much about a novel, and I knew instantly that I was in for a magical treat. At the same time that Harvey is telling the historical fiction story of Edith and Cornelia Vanderbilt and what happened to the Vanderbilt veil that passed down among generations of women, there’s a dual timeline, that reads just like a normal Kristy Woodson Harvey summer novel about a woman named Julia who is about to get married when a revelation about her fiancé upends her life plans....the two timelines go back and forth, and do ultimately blend seamlessly. I was captivated by the way Harvey captured the Vanderbilt family, and how impressive this was for her first time at writing historical fiction. But, for the sucker I am, I love a runaway bride story, and the contemporary timeline just stole my heart. I just adored Julia’s grandmother Babs, who is the true heart of the book. She has the best one-liners of dialogue. I think readers are going to love THE WEDDING VEIL as much as I did, and it will probably inspire many trips to the Biltmore House in Asheville next summer, because this book sure made me want to go!
Thank you to Gallery Books for the advanced copy, The Wedding Veil is available wherever books are sold 3/29/2022!
Thank you to Gallery Books for the advanced copy, The Wedding Veil is available wherever books are sold 3/29/2022!
March 27, 2022
Enchanting, sentimental, and heartfelt!
The Wedding Veil is a a captivating, uplifting tale that takes you on a journey to the early 1900s, as well as present-day, and into the lives of four main characters, Edith Vanderbilt, a young widow and mistress of the exquisite Biltmore Estate, Cornelia Vanderbilt, a mother of two with seemingly everything but who yearns for something more, Babs Carlisle, a grandmother extraordinaire with a lot of spunk and a heart of gold, and Julie Baxter, a soon-to-be bride with a beautiful locale, a family veil with a mysterious past and a history of its own, and a fiancé who unfortunately can’t seem to keep his hands to himself.
The prose is charged and intriguing. The characters are independent, kind, reliable, and supportive. And the plot, including all the subplots, intertwine and unravel effortlessly into a charming tale of drama, emotion, secrets, loss, duty, heartbreak, familial dynamics, self-reflection, passion, tradition, taking chances, moving on, and finding new love.
Overall, The Wedding Veil is an evocative, moving, nostalgic tale with compelling characters that I devoured from start to finish. As most people know, I’m a huge fan of Kristy Woodson Harvey’s writing, and now with this first exceptional endeavour into my favourite genre, historical fiction, I might have become an even bigger fan if that’s even possible.
Thank you to Uplit Reads for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Wedding Veil is a a captivating, uplifting tale that takes you on a journey to the early 1900s, as well as present-day, and into the lives of four main characters, Edith Vanderbilt, a young widow and mistress of the exquisite Biltmore Estate, Cornelia Vanderbilt, a mother of two with seemingly everything but who yearns for something more, Babs Carlisle, a grandmother extraordinaire with a lot of spunk and a heart of gold, and Julie Baxter, a soon-to-be bride with a beautiful locale, a family veil with a mysterious past and a history of its own, and a fiancé who unfortunately can’t seem to keep his hands to himself.
The prose is charged and intriguing. The characters are independent, kind, reliable, and supportive. And the plot, including all the subplots, intertwine and unravel effortlessly into a charming tale of drama, emotion, secrets, loss, duty, heartbreak, familial dynamics, self-reflection, passion, tradition, taking chances, moving on, and finding new love.
Overall, The Wedding Veil is an evocative, moving, nostalgic tale with compelling characters that I devoured from start to finish. As most people know, I’m a huge fan of Kristy Woodson Harvey’s writing, and now with this first exceptional endeavour into my favourite genre, historical fiction, I might have become an even bigger fan if that’s even possible.
Thank you to Uplit Reads for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2022
This was really dumb
I would say Hallmark movie dumb but I
feel like it would be an insult to Hallmark. Poorly developed characters, every cliche character, phrase and setting known to man, just dumb.
I would say Hallmark movie dumb but I
feel like it would be an insult to Hallmark. Poorly developed characters, every cliche character, phrase and setting known to man, just dumb.
May 20, 2022
Thank you to Kristy Woodson Harvey for my review copy. All opinions are my own.
Ummmmmm. Heller. The Queen of contemporary has hopped over the the historical side in this novel and I am here for it. Sincerely, if it was possible I would give more than five stars....it is that good.
There are so many, I mean so many things I loved. Let's talk about some okay?
As always....North Carolina...you hold my heart and I love how Kristy writes you.
The Biltmore and the Vanderbilt's? Sigh. Obsession unlocked.
The woman in this story. Every. Single. One. Of. Them....however Babs...I adore you most of all.
The dual timeline was perfection. Honestly, perfection.
I thought it didn't get better than Peachtree Bluff...and I mean. They are different stories.
The Wedding Veil though...you, you're my favorite.
Pick it up. Don't look back. Trust me.
Ummmmmm. Heller. The Queen of contemporary has hopped over the the historical side in this novel and I am here for it. Sincerely, if it was possible I would give more than five stars....it is that good.
There are so many, I mean so many things I loved. Let's talk about some okay?
As always....North Carolina...you hold my heart and I love how Kristy writes you.
The Biltmore and the Vanderbilt's? Sigh. Obsession unlocked.
The woman in this story. Every. Single. One. Of. Them....however Babs...I adore you most of all.
The dual timeline was perfection. Honestly, perfection.
I thought it didn't get better than Peachtree Bluff...and I mean. They are different stories.
The Wedding Veil though...you, you're my favorite.
Pick it up. Don't look back. Trust me.
March 30, 2022
Kristy Woodson Harvey wrote a historical fiction book! { Uplit Reads & Gallery Books }
Genre: Historical Fiction
Time: 1914 & Present Day
Format: 📖
Pub Date: 3.29.2022
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆.5
“My entire life, that veil had been a symbol of happiness, but I realized that, for me, its significance wasn’t even really about marriage. It was the connection that touching it, wearing it, seeing it, made me feel to Babs and mom, to my great-grandmother, and Aunt Alice.”
I loved exploring family relationships in the Peachtree Bluff series, so I was worried I would miss that familiar style of writing from Kristy. But, as it turns out, she incorporated that same theme into her newest novel, The Wedding Veil. I love so many things about Kristy’s writing, but one of my favorites is that for each character she creates, I can find a bit of myself in them.
My husband and I went on our mini-honeymoon to Asheville and spent a lot of time at the Biltmore, which made this novel so much fun to read as it took me right back there and taught me a lot about the Vanderbilt family that I wasn’t familiar with.
But, overall, my favorite aspect of this story was Julia’s relationship with her grandmother, Babs. I loved the character’s banter and honesty with one another, and it made me miss my grandmother something fierce. I was so glad to see Julia’s character grow throughout the book, and I think Babs helped guide her granddaughter but not push her before she was ready.
👩👧 Exploration of relationships
🏰 Biltmore setting
🥰 Loveable characters
✌🏼Dual timeline
On an entirely personal note, Kristy added my name in the acknowledgments section of this book, and I can’t tell you what an honor it is. I will forever be a fan of yours and am so excited for you and what your future holds as an author. I will make it to one of your tour stops one day, and we can celebrate. 😘😘
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Genre: Historical Fiction
Time: 1914 & Present Day
Format: 📖
Pub Date: 3.29.2022
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆.5
“My entire life, that veil had been a symbol of happiness, but I realized that, for me, its significance wasn’t even really about marriage. It was the connection that touching it, wearing it, seeing it, made me feel to Babs and mom, to my great-grandmother, and Aunt Alice.”
I loved exploring family relationships in the Peachtree Bluff series, so I was worried I would miss that familiar style of writing from Kristy. But, as it turns out, she incorporated that same theme into her newest novel, The Wedding Veil. I love so many things about Kristy’s writing, but one of my favorites is that for each character she creates, I can find a bit of myself in them.
My husband and I went on our mini-honeymoon to Asheville and spent a lot of time at the Biltmore, which made this novel so much fun to read as it took me right back there and taught me a lot about the Vanderbilt family that I wasn’t familiar with.
But, overall, my favorite aspect of this story was Julia’s relationship with her grandmother, Babs. I loved the character’s banter and honesty with one another, and it made me miss my grandmother something fierce. I was so glad to see Julia’s character grow throughout the book, and I think Babs helped guide her granddaughter but not push her before she was ready.
👩👧 Exploration of relationships
🏰 Biltmore setting
🥰 Loveable characters
✌🏼Dual timeline
On an entirely personal note, Kristy added my name in the acknowledgments section of this book, and I can’t tell you what an honor it is. I will forever be a fan of yours and am so excited for you and what your future holds as an author. I will make it to one of your tour stops one day, and we can celebrate. 😘😘
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