The novel is a complex narrative that weaves together the story of two sisters in early 20th century Canada, one of whom publishes a scandalous novel that leads to her suicide. The surviving sister, now an elderly woman, reflects on their lives, revealing family secrets, heartbreak, and the truth behind the scandalous novel. The narrative is interspersed with excerpts from the controversial book, a science fiction story within a story, adding layers of intrigue and mystery.

This historical fiction novel centers around the true story of Grace Marks, a 19th-century Irish-Canadian maid who was convicted of the brutal murders of her employer and his housekeeper. The narrative is told from the perspective of Grace herself, as well as a young psychiatrist who is trying to determine whether Grace is truly guilty. The book explores themes of memory, culpability, and the treatment of women in society.

The novel is a semi-autobiographical narrative of a Czechoslovakian writer who has become a professor at a Canadian university, teaching American literature. The narrative switches between his current life in Canada and his memories of the past in Czechoslovakia, including the Nazi occupation and the Communist regime. The book presents a complex portrayal of the life of an intellectual in exile and the challenges of cultural assimilation, while also exploring themes of love, politics, and the power of literature.

Set in the early 20th century, the novel paints a vivid picture of the lives of immigrants and workers in Toronto, weaving together their personal stories with the city's historical events. The narrative follows the protagonist, a young man from rural Ontario, as he moves to the bustling city and becomes entangled in the lives of a diverse cast of characters, including a wealthy industrialist, a love interest with a mysterious past, and a group of bridge builders. Through his interactions and relationships, the novel explores themes of love, labor, and the unsung contributions of immigrants to the building of a city, all while the protagonist embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery and connection within the urban landscape.