“A vivid portrait of the life and ambitions of one of the most famous Bostonians in history . . . Dykstra is just the writer and researcher to do justice to this story… Her thoroughly researched account of Gardner’s life is sure to be a hit whether you’re a history buff or just a lover of good storytelling.”—BOSTON.COM, APRIL BOOK CLUB PICK

“Compelling and informative” — THE BOSTON GLOBE  

“[An] exquisitely detailed and perceptive biography.” — NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW 

“Sympathetic, impeccably researched.” — WALL STREET JOURNAL

“[A] thrilling new biography.” — TOWN & COUNTRY 

“[Dykstra’s) narrative is precise yet animated, offering illuminating details without becoming mired in facts.” — Times Literary Supplement

“…an extensively researched and engaging biography that reveals the many layers of the defiant pleasure seeker, patron, and traveler.” – Hyperallergic

“Thoroughly researched.” — ROBB REPORT

“Marshalling vivid facts, fluent insights, and narrative radiance, Dykstra fully captures Gardner’s dynamism, intrepidity, creativity, and singular achievements.” — BOOKLIST *starred* 

“Captivating . . . an elegant depiction of a larger-than-life trailblazer.” — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

“Captures the sweep and energy of [Gardner’s] life . . . A richly detailed biographical portrait.” — KIRKUS