A brilliant and unforgettable portrait of two remarkable women. I knew very little about Mary Wollestoncraft, other than her fame for writing "Vindications of the Rights of Woman," and I was fascinated to learn her life story, as if told from her own pen in the most personal of memoirs. I thought I knew Mary Shelley's story -- because I've read several biographies and seen movies about her, but this novel brought her young self to life in a way that felt 100% real and settled deep in my soul. I loved the author's portrayal of Percy Shelley, William Godwin, and both Marys -- their deep intelligence, fiery passions for the men they loved, devotion and love for their children, desire for change where women's status is concerned, and staunch determination to flout society, follow their hearts, and be free and undefined by a legal connection to a man (although that didn't work out well for either of them). They both suffered so many highs and lows -- literary triumphs, incredible loving relationships with accomplished and passionate men, and yet so much death and loss -- it hurts to contemplate. But, life is not fair. We can't predict the hand we'll be dealt. Despite all the tragedies, these women accomplished a great deal and made their stamp on history. It's a lesson for us all to persevere, follow our dreams, and enjoy the good times while they last, for we never know what's around the corner. Bravo!