The author spins a wonderful story of hope, determination, and achievement. It is an exciting story that is well written. Each of the characters are superbly developed. The narrative is such that the reader can picture themselves there watching things as they transpire . . . . Things are not always what they seem. The author has done a masterful job of creating a story that is exciting, mysterious, and entertaining.” — New York Journal of Books
“Rich in characters and awash in period details of Gilded Age New York as well as the sumptuous fashions of the time, this book is a treat for historical-fiction fans.” — Booklist
“For readers who like their historical fiction with a gothic twist.” — Toronto Star
“Steeped in vivid descriptions of New York City’s Gilded Age, Simpson’s fascinating novel creates a richly layered tapestry of the heartbreaking plight of immigrants juxtaposed with the opulent lifestyles of the elite. Mimi’s exciting and mysterious journey is enhanced by a cast of unique, well-developed characters and lively dialogue. Seamlessly threading significant political, social, and historical events into this captivating story, Simpson’s plot is filled with tender, emotional scenes and psychologically twisted moments. A memorable and intriguing read.” — Historical Novels Society
"What shines through the narrative is Mimi's story, her effervescent personality, her enthusiasm for life and making friends, her devotion to her son, and her talent for conceiving beautiful, unique creations. This engaging novel could just as well have been set in the present day in terms of the immigrant experience and class divisions. It's not only a pleasure to read; it's thoughtful and filled with likable characters." — Bookreporter.com
“Rich and captivating." — Woman’s World Magazine
“A great historical fiction novel set over many years, in New York City. Fans of character driven stories, will really like this one. It’s one of those books you don’t want to put down.” — Red Carpet Crash
“A captivating historical novel set in Gilded Age New York City about an immigrant daughter’s ascent from a miserable tenement to the heights of haute couture, driven by an insatiable hunger for a place in society and secrets she must not betray.” — Hasty Book List
2023-09-09
The daughter of a Jewish immigrant rises from poverty to fame among New York’s upper crust.
Rivkah Milmanovitch arrives at Ellis Island in 1893, pregnant and planning to make a new life with her husband, who had made the trip from Lithuania earlier. But Rivkah can’t find Jacob and instead moves in with a friend from home, Lottie Aarons. With her last name changed to Milman, Rivkah carves out a hardscrabble life, raising her daughter, Mimi, with the help of kindly neighbors. When Mimi is 15, she meets Frederick Winthrop, the sadistic, 30-year-old youngest son of a wealthy family that employs Lottie as a bookkeeper. Though Mimi and Frederick meet only a few times, the teenager becomes pregnant and loses her mother soon after. Not knowing Frederick’s last name, Mimi can't seek help—but then rumors start spreading about Frederick and a young girl and the Winthrop family and Lottie put the pieces together. In exchange for Mimi’s silence, the family gives her a building from which she can operate a clothing shop, an opportunity that launches her on a designing career that brings her security and fulfillment. But Frederick’s worst impulses remain unchecked, and the more Mimi hears about him, the more she becomes concerned that his cruelty could pose a danger. Tonally inconsistent, this novel can't decide what kind of story it wants to be—a thriller about a serial killer, the story of a young woman who makes her way in the world, or a Gilded Age tale of haves and have-nots. The resulting muddle picks up and drops potential throughlines, introducing plot points in brief chapters that reveal too little to be interesting. Characters are inconsistent and underdeveloped, including Rivkah, who is introduced as young and dreamy before immediately being recast into a cold and angry mother with no true depth.
This novel never finds a plot worth pursuing.
