The Phoenix Crown by Kate Quinn; Janie Chang

 In this fast-paced novel, the lives of three young and independent women intertwine as they navigate their careers and relationships in Edwardian San Francisco. Gemma, an opera singer, finds herself still in the chorus at 33 after a series of misfortunes. She soon succumbs to ambition and temptation, becoming the mistress of an intriguing businessman Mr Thornton, but is he what he seems? Suling embroiders beautifully, but she also finds it impossible to get ahead. Occasionally, she joins her friends who work in a brothel to dress in exotic clothes, and wait on tables at Mr Thornton's place. She yearns for her lover Reggie, who suddenly disappeared. Alice Eastland is older than Gemma and Suling. She works as a scientist at the amazing Museum of Natural History, and loves unusual plants.When the huge earthquake of 1906 strikes, these three women will learn where their values really lie.

This story of three women, dark secrets and a natural disaster was so exciting that I could hardly put it down. Edwardian San Francisco was an unusual setting, vividly brought to life, and I also liked the addition of the great opera singer Caruso as one of the minor characters.

I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.