Reading Room: Ladies of the Brown by Debra B. Faulkner
Opened in August 1891, The Brown Palace Hotel in Denver has a fascinating history as one of the oldest hotels in Denver, and in Ladies of the Brown, author Debra B. Faulkner offers up interesting tales of the women who have stayed there, or called it home. You're sure to recognize at least a few of the names.
A friend sent me this book, in part as a lovely gift, and in part because we're also working on a new series together set in 1899 Colorado. While my first book in the series isn't set in Denver (Samantha's is), the stories within this book offer a nice overall picture of historic Denver, and the opulence that could be had in what many still considered at the time to be the wild and uncivilized old west. There was plenty of that, of course, and yet so much more.
It's also an entertaining read. If you enjoy the history of American's Rocky Mountain region, then I suggest giving this one a try.
About the Book
Since the day it opened in 1892, Denver's Brown Palace Hotel has been the Mile High City's foremost destination for high-powered business travelers, celebrities, royalty and politicians. In Ladies of the Brown, hotel historian and archivist Debra B. Faulkner introduces readers to some of the hotel's most fascinating and famous female visitors, residents and employees. From Denver's "Unsinkable" Molly Brown and Romania's Queen Marie to Zsa Zsa Gabor, Mamie Eisenhower and many, many more, these intriguing characters play leading roles in true tales of romance, scandal, humor and heartbreak. This collection of stories is integral to the history of the Brown Palace and Denver, offering a glimpse into the lives of generations of women from all walks of life.
The Reading Room is where I share books, because authors are readers, too. I don't rate books on my blog, but I do like to share books I've read and enjoyed (My mom recommends a few, too.). My tastes are eclectic, so expect to see everything from sweet, wholesome romance to edge-of-your-seat, sexy thrillers, and more in between.