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At White Rain Book House, we are proud to present By Any Other Name, a #1 New York Times bestseller that is both a historical revelation and a powerful story of resilience. From the co-author of Mad Honey comes a novel that weaves together the lives of two extraordinary women, centuries apart, who fight to be heard in a world that silences them.

The Forgotten Author Behind Shakespeare's Plays

By Any Other Name introduces readers to Emilia Bassano, a woman erased from history who may have been the true author behind some of Shakespeare's most famous works. In 1581, young Emilia is a ward of English aristocrats, gifted in languages, history, and writing. Despite her talents, she is forced into the shadows, unable to claim her voice in a world dominated by men. Emilia’s determination leads her to craft a secret plan: she pays an actor named William Shakespeare to present her work as his own, ensuring that her words reach the stage, even if they are not credited to her.

A Modern Playwright’s Struggle for Recognition

Centuries later, in a parallel storyline, Melina Green, a contemporary playwright, finds herself facing similar struggles. Inspired by her Elizabethan ancestor, Emilia Bassano, Melina writes a play that delves into Emilia's hidden life. Yet, in the male-dominated theater world, Melina’s work is unlikely to be recognized if presented under her own name. When her best friend submits the play to a festival under a male pseudonym, Melina must confront the harsh realities of gender bias and decide how far she is willing to go to see her work performed.

A Tale of Ambition, Courage, and the Power of Words

Jodi Picoult’s By Any Other Name is more than just a novel; it is a tribute to the countless women throughout history who have been denied their rightful place in the spotlight. This sweeping tale, told through intertwining timelines, explores themes of ambition, courage, and the lengths one will go to ensure their voice is heard. Both Emilia and Melina are portrayed as women of immense talent and determination, yet they must navigate a world that seeks to silence them.

Picoult’s extensive research, rooted in primary historical sources, brings Emilia Bassano vividly to life, ensuring that her name will no longer be forgotten. The novel is both a gripping historical mystery and a modern-day story of creative resilience, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and contemporary drama alike.

Critical Acclaim and Reader Praise

By Any Other Name has been hailed as “inspiring” by Elle and praised by Kristin Hannah, author of The Women, who says, “You’ll fall in love with Emilia Bassano, the unforgettable heroine based on a real woman that Picoult brings vividly to life in her brilliantly researched new novel.”

Get Your Copy at White Rain Book House

Don’t miss out on this remarkable novel that challenges the way we think about history and the stories that have been lost to time. By Any Other Name is available now at White Rain Book House, where we celebrate stories that give voice to those who have been silenced. Whether you’re a lover of historical fiction, a fan of Jodi Picoult, or someone interested in the hidden truths of the past, this novel is sure to captivate you from beginning to end.

Visit White Rain Book House today to pick up your copy of By Any Other Name and discover the untold story of Emilia Bassano, a woman whose words changed the world, even if her name was forgotten—until now.