A Million to One is historical fiction set aboard the Titanic, where a group of four multi-faceted talented girls are hoping to execute a heist of an artifact engraved with jewels. Josefa, Hinnah, Violet, and Emilie are motivated for varying reasons ranging from family and a sense of belonging to vengeance. The group dynamic fluctuates, leading the reader to hope that the girls are not only successful in achieving the heist, but also in preserving friendships and surviving the coming disaster.

This story is told from multiple perspectives, which all feel distinct. The short chapters with a time stamped countdown add to the already immersive fast pacing and a feeling of tension. Admittedly, I don’t know if the Titanic’s sinking has as much of a cultural impact to modern teens as it did for folks that remember the release of the 1997 movie adaptation, however I believe this would be an enjoyable read for those extensively familiar or not. The romance between Josefa and Emilie is a memorable one and a highlight amidst the impending disaster. The found family dynamic between Hinnah and Violet is one that any fan of that trope can appreciate. Thankfully teen girls in 2023 don’t have to worry so much about having chaperones as folks in 1912 did, but concerns around personal safety especially in regards to unpredictable boys that have been turned down persists. Themes of broken trust between longtime friends and the hope of not getting caught after breaking rules are timeless. In this story, Black and Brown girls are finally given voice in an iconic setting and wearing wonderfully described period attire. This bittersweet ending will stay with me a long time. 

As a side note, I’d recommend anyone that is particularly interested in Emilie’s complex feelings surrounding the theft and potential destruction of an artifact, read Portrait of a Thief by Grace D. Li. This comparison title is more adult oriented as the characters are older (young 20’s) and language more descriptive, however there is cross appeal in heists conducted by marginalized characters and inclusion of a sapphic relationship. 

Favorite quote: “Emilie didn’t know when the two of them fell asleep. Somewhere in the middle of the night, with Josefa’s hands clasping hers, and ink trailing the floor of the cabin” (Jaigirdar, p. 178).