Ariel: A Shelley Romance by Andre Maurois is a biographical novel that tells the story of the famous English Romantic poet, Percy Bysshe Shelley. The book focuses on Shelley’s tumultuous personal life, including his relationships with his wives and mistresses, as well as his literary achievements. Maurois’ book portrays Shelley as a complex and passionate figure, full of contradictions and conflict. He examines the poet’s intense friendships with other writers of his time, including Lord Byron and John Keats, and explores the impact that their ideas and personalities had on Shelley’s own work. Through vivid and evocative descriptions of Shelley’s travels, relationships, and artistic endeavors, Maurois brings the poet and his era to life. Ariel: A Shelley Romance is a beautifully written and engaging work of historical fiction, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of one of the greatest poets of the Romantic era.