The Lioness of Boston

A Novel

De: Emily Franklin

Narrado por: Nancy Peterson

By the time Isabella Stewart Gardner opened her Italian palazzo-style home as a museum in 1903 to showcase her collection of old masters, antiques, and objects d'art, she was already well-known for scandalizing Boston's polite society. But when Isabella first arrived in Boston in 1861, she was twenty years old, newly married to a wealthy trader, and unsure of herself. Puzzled by the frosty reception she received from stuffy blue bloods, she strove to fit in. After two devastating tragedies and rejection from upper-society, Isabella discovered her spirit and cast off expectations.

Freed by travel, Isabella explores the world of art, ideas, and letters, meeting such kindred spirits as Henry James and Oscar Wilde. From London and Paris, to Egypt and Asia, she develops a keen eye for paintings and objects, and meets feminists ready to transform nineteenth century thinking in the twentieth century. Isabella becomes an eccentric trailblazer, painted by John Singer Sargent in a portrait of daring decolletage, and fond of such stunts as walking a pair of lions in the Boston Public Garden.

The Lioness of Boston is a portrait of what society expected a woman's life to be, shattered by a courageous soul who rebelled and was determined to live on her own terms.

©2023 Emily Franklin (P)2023 Tantor

Glad I read it but wasn’t gripped by the telling

I got weary of ISG and her seeming inability to appreciate anything about her life. I was sympathetic to all of her issues but wearied of her endless self-absorption.

Fascinating fictional history book about a true American character, Isabella Stewart Gardner

Interesting depiction of a bonafide member of the Gilded Age, Isabella Stewart Gardner, who would have exclaimed, Why let a few facts get in the way of a great story. Enjoyed every word of it.

Of historical importance

This book caused me to reference the wonderful art, books, and other relevant works of the time of Ms Gardener. But, it is a slow read and it took a lot of perseverance to finish. I applaud the author’s research. If you are looking for an easy read, this is not your book.

I loved learning about this incredible woman!

As an artist and a woman, I loved listening and learning about this incredible woman and the difference she made in Boston society, as well as, in the art world! I plan to visit Boston next summer to see her collection!

her strong will to do what she wanted!

people in that time criticized her for that strong will. they shunned her for being vocal

Nice but too much

Good story but full of assumptions. Would have liked more serious factual info. Reader was good with the story.

What parts are fiction?

The portrayal of Isabella is not very positive. Hard to not what is truth or fiction.

Loved this

Because I lived close to Boston, I have visited this magical museum a few times before the heist and after. I’ll visit again and be able to recognize where some art was purchased and connect with some of the artists mentioned through your words, Emily . Thoroughly enjoyed this “listen to.” I had no idea of IBG’s loss of a child, and her nephews. I’ll listen to the epilogue again. Thank you, Emily Franklin, for all your work. ❤️

One of a kind

Fascinating, brilliant woman. Her steadfast search for value and growth are amazing for her time. Her success evident in her museum.

Made me want to learn more about ISG

I remember visiting Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum when I was young and really being drawn at the place and the theft that occurred. Although fictionalized, I really enjoyed this book and found myself wanting to know more about Isabella Stewart Gardner the book was well written, and held my attention throughout. The only thing I would’ve liked better had there been a little bit more about the real woman included in the book, I would definitely recommend to fans of historical fiction.