This is quite well-written for a first novel. The mixing of history, women's issues, drama and mystery go well together.The story takes place in Buffalo, New York at the time when electricity is beginning to be harnessed from Niagara Falls. There are some murders in Buffalo and the headmistress of a girls' school attempts to get to the bottom of things. There is a lot of personal and political intrigue. Real historical figures merge with fictional ones.This book is a gem and I look forward to future novels by Ms. Belfer.