Taking place in Seattle during the 1920s during Prohibition, Zora Hough seems to be doomed to a life of poverty. Zora helps her mother bring in extra money as a seamstress. But Zora has incredible sewing skills and a mind full of clothing designs. She can envision how a simple fabric and needle and thread can create an outfit that looks beautiful on each person. Tragedy strikes the family, a tragedy that forces Zora out into the world, away from her family. However, this opens Zora’s eyes to the possibilities available to her both in career and in love.
Salazar’s writing paints a picture of life in Seattle in the 1920’s. It is so easy to imagine Zora’s life throughout the various stages as she leaves her family and gains independence and empowerment. Salazar does a wonderful job of describing scenes without making it dull. The reader can imagine sitting in mansions and speakeasies, scenes filled with music and fashion. Salazar does a great job focusing on Zora’s growth and independence, rather than the setbacks. For each setback Zora faces, she seems to come through the other side stronger for it.
While this book was fun to read, I would have liked it if Salazar spent more time on the conflicts that arose between various characters. It might have been nice if Salazar explored the supporting characters a little bit more. However, I recommend this book to historical fiction readers, especially those who enjoy reading about the Prohibition era.
Thanks to Net Galley, Noelle Salazar, and MIRA for providing a complimentary copy of this book in hopes that I will leave my unbiased review. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and the above review is simply my opinion of the book.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐