This book provides an excellent overview of the family history of George W. Vanderbilt surrounding the creation of Biltmore House. Lots of portraits of the family help grasp the Vanderbilt family tree. Next, the book describes the creation of the amazing Biltmore House, gardens, and farm. George also graciously gave to the Asheville community by building Biltmore Village where residents could live, shop, and worship at the All Souls’ Church. Pictures of the family and guests enjoying life at the estate offer a glimpse into their unimaginable reality. The book concludes with the birth of Cornelia, her life growing up at Biltmore, her wedding at the All Souls’ Church, and the birth of her two children. This book is filled with rich history of a most interesting family. ( )

Since I've visited Biltmore Estate several times over the years, I really enjoyed seeing the pictures of Biltmore and grounds under construction. ( )