The Colony Club : A Novel – Shelley Noble

Set against the glittering backdrop of Gilded Age New York, The Colony Club follows the bold creation of Manhattan’s first women’s social club. When society matron Daisy Harriman is denied entry to a prestigious hotel for being unaccompanied, she defies societal norms by founding the Colony Club—a space where women can gather, collaborate, and advocate for change. Recruiting famed architect Stanford White and interior designer Elsie de Wolfe, Daisy’s vision faces setbacks, including scandal, sabotage, and the shocking murder of White, which threatens to derail the project.

Nora Bromley, a tenacious aspiring architect from the Lower East Side, battles sexism in her field while grappling with family struggles and financial strain. Her journey intertwines with Daisy and Elsie’s as they navigate class divides, personal prejudices, and the looming threat of the club’s collapse. Together, the trio confronts societal expectations, proving that women’s voices and ambitions cannot be silenced.

The novel weaves real historical figures and events into a rich tapestry of ambition and resilience. From the opulent ballrooms of elite society to the gritty streets of immigrant neighborhoods, the story highlights the power of collaboration across class and circumstance. Themes of female empowerment, social justice, and the fight for equality resonate throughout, offering a tribute to the unsung women who shaped history.

As the club’s fate hangs in the balance, the characters’ personal and collective struggles mirror the era’s transformative spirit. Shelley Noble’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring to life a forgotten chapter of women’s history, celebrating their triumphs and sacrifices. The Colony Club becomes more than a building—it symbolizes a movement, inspiring future generations to challenge the status quo.