chaptersofchase 's review for:

The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis

4.0

mysterious medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Complicated

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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Thank you, Dutton Books, for the gifted copy of Magnolia Palace 🌸 {partner}

Genre: Historical Fiction
Setting: New York, 1916 and 1966
Format: 🎧
Pub Date: 1.25.2022
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆

“The rich think they’re protected, that they have magical powers, when they’re only mortals, like the rest of us. Bodies break down and betray you. People you love die. Children die.”

Well, folks, I finally got around to reading the Magnolia Palace after it sat on my shelf for a year. I don’t want to admit how often I looked at the stunning book and didn’t pick it up. But I’m so glad I finally read it (well listened to) because it was a delight!

I always love Davis’ books as she has a captivating way of bringing history to life through endearing characters, familiar places, and always a hint of mystery. The more I think about it, the more I realize that the historical fiction + mystery mash-up may be my favorite trope.

My only two criticisms about Magnolia Palace are that I did not love Veronica’s character. She lacked the characteristics of the strong female protagonist I could see her being, and I also disagreed with her choices (even if she did try to make up for her actions). The other issue is that the ending felt rushed and too easy. There were a lot of moving pieces that seemed to just come together in an unrealistic way.

If you choose to read Magnolia Palace, which you should, I encourage you to read the Author’s Note at the end. It brought the whole story together and shed some light on a woman from history that was neglected and forgotten.

✌🏼Dual timeline (1916 + 1966)
🎭 Family drama with lots of secrets
🏯 Frick Mansion setting
🔀 Historical Fiction + Mystery genre mash-up

I recommend reading Magnolia Palace if you enjoyed reading any of Fiona Davis’ other books or are looking for a bit of history and mystery combination from your next read.


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