03 Jul Book Review of Her Lost Words: A Novel of Mary Wollstonecraft and Mary…
Book Review: Her Lost Words: A Novel of Mary Wollstonecraft and Mary Shelley by Stephanie Marie Thornton
As I explored the pages of Her Lost Words, I found myself drawn into the complex lives of two extraordinary women: Mary Wollstonecraft and her daughter Mary Shelley. I must admit, prior to diving into this beautifully woven tapestry of historical fiction, my knowledge of either figure was embarrassingly scant. However, Stephanie Marie Thornton’s masterful storytelling transformed my ignorance into a profound appreciation for these groundbreaking literary figures.
Thornton crafts a dual narrative that dances between the lives of Mary Wollstonecraft from 1775 to 1797 and Mary Shelley from 1814 to 1831. Each timeline offers an intimate glimpse into their struggles against societal norms, a theme that struck a deep chord with me. It’s easy to romanticize the past, but Her Lost Words unflinchingly presents the harsh realities these women faced—gender inequality, societal constraints, and the sheer act of voicing their thoughts in an era when women were often silenced.
What truly captivated me was the emotional depth Thornton imbues in her characters. Mary Wollstonecraft’s escape from her oppressive father and her journey as an independent woman in a male-dominated society reads like a rallying cry for all women seeking to carve their own paths. Her relentless spirit is inspiring; I could not help but admire her tenacity as she chased her dreams with little more than her manuscript and her wits.
Similarly, Mary Shelley’s relationship with Percy Shelley introduced another layer of complexity and heartache. Initially, I found myself dubious of Percy—his charm seemed laced with chaos. Throughout their tumultuous romance, Thornton weaves in themes of love, betrayal, and the fierce quest for identity. It became increasingly clear that their bond was as much an exploration of their shared legacies as it was a search for self.
The pacing, while slower at times, allows Thornton’s lush prose to breathe. Each page is laced with poetic descriptions that drew me into the intimate thoughts and emotions of both women. The dialogue is rich yet reflective, reminding me of the versatility of written language. Several memorable quotes resonate with me, particularly discussions on free love and the defiance of social norms—echoes of what women still grapple with today.
Despite being a historical novel, Her Lost Words has a modern relevance that is hard to ignore. The layers of tragedy that unfold towards the end left me breathless; I found myself shedding tears for both Marys as they navigated the storms of their lives, often feeling isolated from even their closest kin. To think that such remarkable women faced barriers that were insurmountable at times is utterly heartbreaking.
In the author’s notes, Thornton reflects on the balance between fact and fiction, and I appreciated her openness. Whether these stories remained faithful to history or embraced artistic liberties, they unequivocally celebrate the resilience of women. As Thornton eloquently puts it, this novel is “a love letter to two brilliant women who lit the way for not just women writers, but all women.”
Her Lost Words is a powerful read that resonates with anyone who values literature, feminism, or the complexities of maternal bonds. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fellow lovers of historical fiction, as well as anyone on their own journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The experience left me not only educated but inspired, a reminder that the voices of the past continue to illuminate paths for the future. Grab a cup of tea, settle into your favorite reading nook, and prepare to be moved by the incredible legacies of these two remarkable women.
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