This story was not what I thought it was going to be but it was still really interesting. It is told in two timelines. 1888 when Celia is taken and needs to escape. 1885 when she was a maid and what happens after. Do not want to spoil anything. This was a somewhat heavy book with some heartbreaking themes. I will say Celia was a very strong and brave character during this time and I really wanted to see her thrive. The writing and details of this book were suburb and made me not want to stop listening. I need to go back and listen to this author`s other works.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Sourcebooks Landmark and RB Media for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this historical fiction novel by Kristina McMorris, with the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Cindy Kay. All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

It's Portland, 1888, when a woman awakens in an underground cell, drugged and disguised. Celia soon realizes she's a "shanghaied" victim on the verge of being shipped off as forced labor. In an era fraught with anti-Chinese sentiment, being half-Chinese she is used to adapting for survival. She must find a way to escape.

This was a historical time period in Portland that I have never heard about. As always with McMorris's books, it is meticulously researched and you can definitely feel like you are in another world. As Celia awakes, she goes back in time to 1885, remembering how she got where she is, determined to fight for her life. I had to pay close attention to the year so as not to be confused, but once it was all set in the same time period, it flowed easier for me. It's a beautiful reminder of how important stories are to be passed through the generations, as well as a story of hope and human resilience in the face of evil. The narration was wonderful and added to the atmospheric feel of this book.

The Girls of Good Fortune by Kristina McMorris is a brilliantly crafted historical novel that immerses readers in the shadowy depths of Portland's Shanghai Tunnels in 1888. Celia’s story is one of resilience, ingenuity, and the silent strength of those who navigated a world rife with prejudice and danger. McMorris masterfully brings to life the gritty atmosphere of the era, painting a compelling picture of a woman caught between two worlds—her Chinese heritage and her attempts to pass as white to survive. As Celia awakens in her underground prison, the narrative swiftly pulls you into her desperate fight to escape her captors and uncover the truth behind her kidnapping. The novel delves into dark themes like forced labor, secretive political plots, and the plight of women in peril, all woven seamlessly into a suspenseful and emotionally charged story. What sets this book apart is McMorris’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling, which breathe authenticity into every scene. The twists and revelations keep the pages turning, leaving you eager to see if Celia can outsmart those hunting her and protect an innocent child caught in the chaos. The Girls of Good Fortune is a powerful testament to the enduring human spirit amidst darkness, and a must-read for fans of historical fiction that combines mystery, social commentary, and heartfelt bravery.