This is a nicely written historical novel that takes place mostly in New York during 1911, and centers around two young people from very different backgrounds. And yes, their stories do collide.

What I admired most about this story is the depiction of the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Company fire, and the anger and unrest of that time period. Also, the fact that women had very few rights or control over their own lives was shown in all its cruelty.

There is a touch of magical realism in this novel, as well, so there is an interesting mesh between real events and those which demand the reader to suspend disbelief. I found this story to be more and more of a page turner, as I progressed. The main characters were both likable, the dialogue was realistic, and the plot was quite engaging.

I would recommend this to most people, especially those who have enjoyed Alice Hoffman's work.