Edward Payson Roe's novel is a fascinating snapshot of 19th-century America, wrapped around one of history's most dramatic disasters.

The Story

The book follows Dennis Fleet, a talented but penniless artist who moves to Chicago with big dreams and strong faith. He gets a job in the art gallery of the wealthy, German-born Mr. Ludolph. There, he meets Christine, Mr. Ludolph's daughter. She's beautiful, educated, and proud, looking down on Dennis for his simple background and his Christian beliefs. Dennis, however, is steadfast and kind, quietly falling for her despite her scorn.

Their tense, class-driven dance is utterly interrupted by the Great Chicago Fire. The city becomes an inferno. In the chaos and terror, Dennis becomes Christine's unlikely protector. Stripped of her wealth, her home, and her superior position, Christine is forced to see Dennis—and herself—in a terrifying new light. The literal burning of the city forces a spiritual and emotional reckoning for them both.

Why You Should Read It

Look, the prose is definitely of its time, but the core conflict feels surprisingly fresh. Roe asks a tough question: how much of who we are is tied to what we own or where we stand in society? Christine is a frustrating character at first, but watching her facade crack under real pressure is compelling. Dennis can seem a bit too perfect, but his quiet strength makes you root for him.

The real star here is the fire itself. Roe's descriptions of the panic, the fleeing crowds, and the sheer scale of the destruction are gripping. You feel the heat and the desperation. It’s a powerful backdrop that makes the personal drama between Dennis and Christine feel huge and urgent.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for historical fiction fans who love a good, clean romance set against a real-world catastrophe. If you enjoyed the personal stories in books like The Last Days of Night or the moral heart of a classic like Jane Eyre, but want an all-American setting, you'll find a lot to like here. Just be ready for some old-fashioned sentiment and clear-cut morals—it's a product of its era, but one with a fiery, beating heart.