Let me start by saying this: By Any Other Name is not just a book—it's an experience. Jodi Picoult masterfully weaves together two timelines, transporting readers between the 17th century and modern day with such fluidity that you'll forget which era you're in.

The dual narrative follows Emilia Bassano, a brilliant but overlooked writer in Elizabethan England, and Melina, a contemporary playwright fighting for recognition. Picoult's research shines through in every page, making Emilia's world feel vivid and authentic. I found myself constantly pausing to Google historical details—that's how immersive it is!

What I loved most was how the book made me reconsider Shakespeare's legacy. The theory that his works might have been written by a woman? Mind-blowing! Picoult presents this controversial idea with such conviction that you'll be questioning everything you learned in English class.

The modern storyline hits hard too. Melina's struggles in the publishing industry mirror Emilia's battles 400 years earlier—a sobering reminder of how little has changed for women in the arts. There were moments when I wanted to throw the book across the room (in a good way!) at the injustice these characters face.

Now for some real talk: The first hundred pages are slow. Like molasses-in-January slow. But push through—the payoff is worth it. Once the stories start intersecting, you won't be able to put it down. I stayed up until 1 AM finishing it (no regrets!).

A word of caution: This isn't subtle storytelling. Picoult makes her points with a sledgehammer at times, repeating themes until they're crystal clear. While I appreciated the message about gender inequality, occasionally I wished she'd trust her readers to connect the dots themselves.

The prose? Gorgeous. Lines like 'Being named was important...' will stick with me forever. And that ending—no spoilers, but bring tissues!

Would I recommend it? Absolutely! Despite its flaws (and what book doesn't have them?), this is one of those rare novels that entertains while making you think deeply about art, authorship, and equality. It's already on my 'reread soon' shelf.