Set against the backdrop of the French revolution, James Tipton's novel brings to life Annette Vallon, Wordsworth's mistress and the inspiration to much of his early work who has been ignored by his biographers and scholars. Though she was purposely kept from the spotlight by Wordsworth's sister (who competed for his love and attention), and she bore his child, Annette's life is a story of survival and strength all on its own. In this engaging and sweeping account, we learn of her fight to shield victims from the Terror and her role the as mother of Wordsworth's child. Tipton's fictional account of her life takes us straight into the sights, sounds, and culture of 18th century France, while he weaves their story of love. This remarkable account of a lost figure in literary history will appeal to many readers hungry for the next great book of historical fiction.
