This piece of historical fiction is set in 1911 in what was called an asylum for the insane. During this time, the theory of eugenics became popularized, calling for the sterilization of the poor and insane. In the midst of this we meet Ella and John, finding each other at the weekly Friday night dance, the only time men and women mingled. Their story, as well as the story of one of the doctors, can be difficult, but is well written and hard to put down. Recommended.