Title: My Imaginary Mary
Author: Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication date: August 2, 2022
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Summary
Mary has been living above her father’s bookstore, waiting for her opportunity to be whisked away. To get the ability to showcase the brilliant mind she inherited from her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft. She just needs a strike of brilliance to compose a work worthy of her parentage. And to maybe catch the eye of the handsome Percy Shelley.
Ada Lovelace is the daughter of Lord Byron, one of the most famous poets ever. But Ada doesn’t want to pursue poetry. She wants to pursue science. Specifically, through automatons. When Ada and Mary form a relationship and accidentally bring PAN, an automaton, to life with Fae magic, they suddenly find themselves in danger. From a scientist who won’t stop hunting them until he figures out their secret.
Review: My Imaginary Mary
Thanks to HarperTeen and NetGalley for an advanced copy of My Imaginary Mary to review! There’s really nothing else like these books in YA, and they’re thoroughly entertaining each time you read one. I love the way these three authors reimagine history–giving more power to the women.
When I heard that this Mary book was going to be about Mary Shelley, I was super excited! I couldn’t wait to see what they did with her story, and I definitely wasn’t disappointed. My favorite thing about this particular installment was the friendship between Mary and Ada. It was fantastic. The way they both kind of defied what other people thought of them, found a kinship with each other. Seriously, I absolutely loved it.
These three authors are also really great at making unique character voices. They don’t blend together like some dual POV books can, which just adds to how entertaining these books are.
What I found a bit lacking was the magic system in this one. While the basic concept, I wanted it to be pushed a little further, I think. The overall plot also felt a bit uneven at times. But, outside of that, this book is full of humor, 1800s fun, and history. You’re sure to be entertained while reading it!
All in all, while this isn’t necessarily my favorite of the series, if you loved the other books, you are sure to enjoy this one as well!
4/5 stars