I'm not a fan of dual time-period novels. Many authors have to stretch to make the historical and present-day narratives mesh or add a fantasy element. Tara Conklin pulls off this trick with skill and finesse. I was fully invested in both her main characters: the artist-slave Josephine and the modern-day lawyer (salary slave?) Lina. Although, their stories parallel with missing mothers, unrealized potential, and overlap with mysteries, it's always obvious that Josephine's life is tragic and Lina deals with what we call "first-world problems." Both make life-changing choices, but Josephine's are visceral and dangerous. 
 Conklin provides a well-paced poignant story with suspense, detailed settings, and interesting characters. My only complaint is a plot twist involving some too-convenient epistolary evidence which I can't explain without spoilers. A small complaint compared to the overall effort which brings us a wonderful tale addressing a difficult subject. Highly recommended.