Old New York

By: Edith Wharton

Narrated by: Gabrielle de Cuir, Stefan Rudnicki

Spanning four decades in the mid-19th century, the interconnected novellas of Old New York lay out in vivid detail the complex and inscrutable codes, customs, and taboos of New York society in classic Wharton style.

In False Dawn (1840s), Mr. Halston Raycie sends his son, Lewis, to Europe to buy art, as Mr. Raycie aims to ascend to the upper crust of society by means of a well-respected art collection. But when Lewis returns from Europe with daring pieces by artists unknown to the New York socialites and tastemakers, his appalled father disinherits him, only to discover, too late, the wisdom of his son’s intuition.

The Old Maid (1850s), the best known of the four novellas, follows the life of Tina, a young woman caught between the mother who adopted her - the beautiful, upstanding Delia - and her true mother, her plain, unmarried “aunt” Charlotte, who gave Tina up to provide her with a socially acceptable life. The three women live quietly together until Tina’s wedding day, when Delia’s and Charlotte’s hidden jealousies rush to the surface.

Then in The Spark (1860s), Mr. Hayley Delane recounts how his life has turned out since he was wounded in the Civil War, where, during his rehabilitation, he chances to meet a certain American poet whose memory stays with him all his life.

And finally in New Year’s Day (1870s), Mrs. Lizzie Hazeldean’s suspected affair with the unmarried Henry Prest is the center of scandal and gossip in the city, but the true nature of the relationship is not what it may seem.

Originally published in 1924.

Public Domain (P)2021 Blackstone Publishing

Excellent

Completely, enjoyable. Wharton sets a beautiful, intricate stage. The narrators bring the characters to life.

Wistful and touching

Classic Wharton, the book gives us snippets and threads of a past New York. The structure is very interesting, with the chapters being recounted alternatively by characters in the book and also in the third person by the narrator.

Thoroughly enjoyable

Unforgettable characters; very nicely read. This period has always fascinated me and I will read more of Edith Wharton.

Sublime

I’m a huge fan of Edith Wharton. The narrators were excellent. I enjoyed it all.

brings you back

it took me into some of the ways and understanding of codes and under codes of those years. which you can can see and feel today. with the best of personal Whartons family touches that pull you in even more. enjoy I did.

Old New York Society

A captivating peek into New York society near the turn of the 20th century populated with a host of well drawn characters.

Loved it.

Kept me engaged throughout, got to know the characters, great narrations! You'll like it if you like this time period.

The Wonder of Wharton

Edith Wharton’s arch sense of the absurd and her deep and wide compassion for even the most foolish of her characters enrich her lush descriptions of dress and habit and her piercing study of Old New York’s superficial values and cruel treatment of all who violate them.

Read to the END!

One or two of the stories may not be her best, but the others are wonderful, classic Edith Wharton. Be sure to read the last, with its most original and surprising twists, and excellent & insightful ending!

Great stories

Edith Wharton is always a master. These stories jump around in time and showcase the seedier sides of wealth and privilege.