Landscape of a Marriage, Gail Ward Olmsted
Landscape of a Marriage, Gail Ward Olmsted
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Landscape of a Marriage
Central Park Was Only the Beginning

Author: Gail Ward Olmsted

Narrator: Stephanie Németh-Parker

Unabridged: 9 hr 46 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: Tantor Media

Published: 11/01/2022


Synopsis

A marriage of convenience leads to a life of passion and purpose. A shared vision transforms the American landscape forever.

New York, 1858: Mary, a young widow with three children, agrees to marry her brother-in-law Frederick Law Olmsted, who is acting on his late brother's deathbed plea to "not let Mary suffer." But she craves more than a marriage of convenience and sets out to win her husband's love. Beginning with Central Park in New York City, Mary joins Fred on his quest to create a "beating green heart" in the center of every urban space.

Over the next forty years, Fred is inspired to create dozens of city parks, private estates, and public spaces with Mary at his side. Based upon real people and true events, this is the story of Mary's journey and personal growth and the challenges inherent in loving a brilliant and ambitious man.

About Gail Ward Olmsted

Gail Olmsted is a hopeless romantic. She is married to the love of her life and the mom to two young adults and two cats. She enjoys reading, music, water sports, and travel. Her books include Jeep Tour, Guessing at Normal, and Landscape of a Marriage.


Reviews

Goodreads review by Bonnie

This is the story of Frederick Law Olmsted, famous designer of Central Park and many other parks, and his family, as told through the eyes of his wife, Mary. Mary was actually married to Fred's brother, John, and when John passed away, Fred married Mary seemingly out of duty. Through Mary's eyes, we......more

I stumbled upon Gail Ward Olmsted's books years ago, and ever since they've been a friendly hand to hold in my reading journey. Gail is incredible at writing a heart felt story with characters who feel real. It's a real talent that makes me adore reading anything she puts out. It's hard to find thos......more

Goodreads review by Alisha

This novel centers on Mary Olmsted, wife of Frederick Law Olmsted, the man behind the design of Central Park and a long list of other public and private landscapes. In spite of having little evidence to work with, the author does a credible job creating a picture of a family life almost overshadowed......more

Goodreads review by Gail

What an interesting story! Frederick Law Olmsted was responsible for the design and development of public parks, most notably Central Park. The story is set in the late nineteenth century and is told from the viewpoint of the widowed Mary whom Fred marries in order to care for her and her children.......more

Goodreads review by Linda

This lovely book features Frederick Law Olmstead, designer of parks, and his wife, Mary. I love stories of the wives of famous men, and it's even better when I learn about men I never knew about! The book begins in 1858 when Mary is widowed and her brother-in-law, Frederick, marries her to help take......more