This series (or series, if we're splitting the Janes and the Marys), y'all. It is just too fun. And I find it to be the perfect, spot on, escapist reading...which is very much something I'm needing and leaning into right now. (If you are curious, check out my reviews of previous titles: My Lady Jane, My Plain Jane, My Contrary Mary). 

In My Imaginary Mary, we get a dual storyline highlighting Mary Shelley (though this famous creator of Frankenstein and his monster doesn't ever marry into the Shelley surname in this version of history) and Ada Lovelace. It was a spectacularly fun interweaving of the arts and science, and the imagination and creativity that are central to success in both. With, of course, a little bit of fae magic thrown in, because that's what these books do best. The authors also added in some romantic drama, coming of age moments, and some kidnapping and other devious and underhanded plots to steal the knowledge/projects of these two leading ladies. I enjoyed the inclusion of parts of both women's actual stories and contributions (mathematics, storytelling, feminism, etc.) as well as some not-so-historically-accurate additions, like automatons coming to life. Plus, there was a cute nod to Peter Pan (which I felt like led me to believe the ending might look a bit different than it did, which was a smidge disappointing to me personally, as I got my hopes/anticipation up...it was still a solid ending, to be fair, just not what I thought it would be).     

Overall though, this one brought the fun and entertainment that I've come to expect from this author trio. There were the funny song lyric and movie references, amusing writing, cheeky interactions and dialogue, and really lively plot and pacing. Plus, Ada and Mary's friendship and collaboration were a real bright spot - so refreshing and heartwarming. I had a great time in these pages, as always.