Mary Shelley 
Mary Shelley: The Complete Novels (The Giants of Literature – Book 27) 

Mary Shelley’s collection, ‘The Complete Novels, ‘ showcases the talents of one of the most influential writers in English literature. Known for her groundbreaking novel ‘Frankenstein, ‘ Shelley’s works delve into themes of science, morality, and the consequences of playing god. Her gothic style and keen observations on humanity make her a standout figure in the Romantic period. This collection includes not only ‘Frankenstein’ but also lesser-known gems like ‘Mathilda’ and ‘The Last Man, ‘ giving readers a comprehensive view of Shelley’s diverse body of work. Mary Shelley’s personal experiences, including the tragic loss of her children, influenced her writing and added depth to her narratives. The themes of loss, abandonment, and the search for identity resonate throughout her works, adding a layer of emotional complexity to her already thought-provoking stories. I highly recommend ‘Mary Shelley: The Complete Novels’ to readers who enjoy thought-provoking literature and want to explore the depths of human nature through the lens of a master storyteller.

About the author

Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley (1797–1851) stands as a towering figure in literary history, best known for her gothic novel ‘Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus’ (1818), which has transcended time as a foundational text in the science fiction and horror genres. Born to political philosopher William Godwin and feminist activist Mary Wollstonecraft, Shelley was embedded in a context of intellectual rigor and enlightened thought from her early years. Shelley’s literary style often delved into the dark and macabre, a direct reflection of her tumultuous personal life, including the untimely death of her mother, her own widowhood, and the loss of her children. Her husband, the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, also profoundly influenced her work. Her narrative voice employs eloquent prose, rich characterization, and an exploration of sociopolitical themes that challenge the norms and mores of her time. Not content with a single masterpiece, Shelley’s oeuvre included further novels such as ‘The Last Man’ (1826), a dystopian science fiction that poised profound existential queries. Her complete novels, as gathered in ‘Mary Shelley: The Complete Novels (The Giants of Literature – Book 27), ‘ underscore her diverse range and enduring relevance. As a woman writer in the early 19th century, Shelley paved the way for future generations, her work continually inspiring analysis and adaptation in various forms of cultural expression.