“A captivating story of a significant woman in Boston’s history who left that city a cultural legacy to last the ages. This beautiful novel will appeal to those who love masterful historical fiction, literary fiction, and stories of triumphant women who leave an indelible mark.”
—New York Journal of Books
“A vivid narrative…brims with pitch-perfect period details…cannily captures Isabella Stewart Gardner’s ambition, independence, and quirks. Fans of strong female protagonists and Gilded Age historicals will enjoy this.”
—Publishers Weekly
“The life story of Isabella Stewart Gardner, from her marriage in 1861 to Jack Gardner, a member of Boston’s ‘High Society,’ through her death in 1924….Franklin’s lyrical, erudite style befits Belle and grabs readers’ attention.”
—Library Journal, starred review
“An engaging portrait of a bold yet vulnerable woman….A perennial tale of a woman fighting for her place in a man’s world.”
—Kirkus