"Burning Girls" is a historical fantasy novella by Veronica Schanoes, first published in 2013. The story is set in New York City in the late 19th century and follows the life of Deborah, a young Jewish girl who is struggling to come to terms with the traumatic events of her past. Deborah's family were among the victims of a notorious pogrom in their hometown in Europe, and the memories of that night haunt her every waking moment. In New York, Deborah becomes involved with a group of women who are fighting for better working conditions in the city's factories, and she finds solace in the rituals and traditions of her faith. However, when a series of mysterious fires break out in the city, Deborah begins to suspect that dark forces are at work, and that her past may be catching up with her. As she delves deeper into the mystery, Deborah discovers that her own destiny is tied to the fate of the burning girls, young factory workers who are being sacrificed in a sinister ritual to appease a malevolent spirit. The novella explores themes of trauma, identity, and the struggle for social justice, and blends elements of Jewish folklore and history with supernatural horror to create a unique and haunting tale.
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