The beginning of the novel introduces readers to Leah Mordecai and her circle of school friends at Madam Truxton's fashionable school. They are portrayed as vibrant young women, each with their own distinct personalities and backgrounds. Leah, described as beautiful yet burdened with sadness, stands out among her peers. Despite the camaraderie displayed between the girls, themes of social class, identity, and heartache emerge as Leah reveals her past and her complicated emotions regarding friendship and affection, particularly in light of her feelings for Mark Abrams and her interactions with Emile Le Grande. The opening chapters set the stage for Leah's internal struggles and hint at the trials she will face as she navigates love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness. (This is an automatically generated summary.)