By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult

An outstanding depiction of women writers in two timelines not being given their due simply because of their gender. Emilia, trained as a courtesan at an early age, is under the protection (read gifted) to a Lord in Queen Elizabeth's court. Thankfully, he is kind and allows her freedom so she can quietly develop her poetry. Years pass and she makes friends with Kit Marlowe who sees her great talent and helps devise a plan to sell her writing to those less talented men like Will Shakespeare under a false name. When Emilia falls in love with someone she shouldn't and the unthinkable happens she is cast out yet picks herself back up to continue to market her writing. Generations later, Melina a young female playwright has the same sexist pushback her ancestor Emilia did in trying to break thought the all male barrier of Broadway. This story rings true because it is based on Emilia Bassano thought to be the first female published poet and the author's note at the end is well worth checking out.
Jodi Picoult has done it again with rich vibrant characters (I loved Kit Marlowe) and perfectly researched storyline connected to current day that showcases a resilient woman who overcame abuse, great loss and obscurity to follow her dreams. Anyone who enjoys stories of Queen Elizabeth's court, and the retellings of Shakespeare's famous plays will enjoy this feminist historical fiction. ​  4 1/2 stars