Young Mary is a dreamer who finds her only escape from a strict father and overbearing stepmother in the world of stories. She even learns to read by tracing the letters on her famous mother's tombstone. Unhappy at home, she seeks independence and eventually runs away with a fellow dreamer. Their travels take them to Switzerland, where they meet a famous poet during a stormy summer evening. Gathered around a crackling fire, a contest is proposed to see who can create the very best ghost story. Soon, Mary experiences a waking dream about a monster coming to life. This atmospheric biography explores the artistic inspiration behind one of the greatest horror novels ever written. It is a captivating look at a brilliant young woman and the powerful imagination that sparked a legendary science fiction masterpiece.