Her Lost Words - Stephanie Marie Thornton

Historical Fiction

Rating: 8.5/10

This is the inspiring story of two literary legends, Mary Wollstonecraft who was acknowledged as a founding feminist philosopher and her daughter, Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein who is renowned for being the mother of modern science fiction.

Growing up in a violent household, Wollstonecraft swore never to be in the same position, supporting herself with her pen and vowing to never bend to convention. Despite never knowing her mother, Shelley was destined to forge a similar path for herself.

I must confess, I had no idea these two authors were related, which only enhanced my enjoyment of the story of their legacies. The scandalous and passionate loves, the unimaginable tragedies, the profound literary achievements, and the connection that binds one to the other, even beyond death. This is a perfectly balanced narrative that any booklover is sure to be charmed and absorbed by in equal measure.

History has not always been kind to women, especially those that ventured to stray from the prescribed path that societal norms dictated for them. These magnificent women are a shining example of those who dared to dream and hope and create and love. I applaud this author for ensuring they didn’t fade into obscurity and reminding us all that we owe them a debt.

Footnote: Over the last decade, or maybe decades would be a more accurate measurement, I have not spent much time in the historical fiction genre.  This year I am looking for a path in that hasn’t had the tread worn down.  So far, I have succeeded beyond my expectations, and I’m not nearly done!

Book Pairing(s):Reluctant Immortals by Gwendolyn Kiste, The Christie Affair by Nina de Gramont, The Only Woman In The Room by Marie Benedict