"The Invisible Woman" is a biography by English author Claire Tomalin, first published in 1990. The book tells the story of Nelly Ternan, an actress who had a secret affair with the famous Victorian novelist, Charles Dickens. Despite being one of the most famous writers of his time, Dickens was married with ten children when he met Nelly, who was 27 years his junior. The affair was kept secret for many years and was only discovered after Dickens's death.
Tomalin's book draws on extensive research to provide a detailed portrait of Nelly and her relationship with Dickens, as well as the broader social and cultural context of Victorian England. Through her careful analysis of letters, diaries, and other historical records, Tomalin paints a vivid picture of a woman who was often overlooked and dismissed by history, and who suffered greatly as a result of her relationship with Dickens.
"The Invisible Woman" is a compelling and insightful book that offers a fresh perspective on one of the most famous writers of the Victorian era, as well as the complex social dynamics of the time. It has been praised for its meticulous research, nuanced analysis, and engaging storytelling, and has become a classic of literary biography.
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