This is a great book when you want to absorb yourself into the Biltmore lifestyle. It’s an easy read that begins with a brief history of the Vanderbilt family and construction of this amazing home. There are pictures of the rooms with accompanying descriptions. There’s a floor plan of the house included; I love being able to fantasize navigating from room to room as the family did during their time here. The book moves from the house to the gorgeous gardens, conservatory, and bass pond and concludes at the Estate’s winery. It’s probably time for an updated version of this book to be printed as the Biltmore Company has significantly expanded since this book’s publication. ( )

Would probably make a great souvenir of a visit to Biltmore, but not as compelling for armchair traveling ( )

Very pretty book to an amazing example of American excess. ( )

3/24/22