First edition fine

Really good trash. ( )

Elias and Ruby Renthal are 'new' rich who long to be accepted into the New York society of the very rich and established 'old' money - easier said than done. Through large charitable donations, insider business advice and sheer tenaciousness they finally rise to the top of the heap and their 'Butterfly Ball' becomes the most anticipated and sought-after event of the season.

However, everyone has their secrets - the Renthals and the members of the established society are no exception. Everything culminates in spectacular fashion at the ball.

I have been a fan of Dominick Dunne through his articles for Vanity Fair - this is a tasty novel! ( )

I like Dunne. He's rather a bit like Tom Wolfe in his take on high society. When things start to go downhill, they crumble big-time. ( )

weak novel NY society - Gus Bailey journalist - Ruby Renthal really rich rise + fall of power

The way journalist Gus Bailey tells it, old money is always preferred, but occasionally new money sneaks in--even where it is most unwelcome. After moving from Cincinnati, Elias and Ruby Renthal strike it even richer in New York, turning their millions into billions. It would be impolite for high society to refuse them now. Not to mention disadvantageous. As long as the market is strong, there's absolutely nothing to worry about--except for those nasty secrets from the past. Scandal, anyone...?