Anna and Charles meet at a steam-powered fair and find that they have an instant physical connection. Charles' work prevents him from staying in the city, so the lovers must keep in contact through letters. Unfortunately, Anna is nearly illiterate, and her older friend Edith Harnham corresponds with Charles on her behalf, ultimately developing an intellectual relationship with Charles that leaves Anna out entirely.

I really enjoyed this story! I quickly began to sympathize with the characters, and I became invested in their star-crossed love triangle.