Water's Edge by Genevieve Fortin

In 1888, Emilie Levesque and her impoverished French Canadian family move to Fall River, Massachusetts, seeking work in the harsh textile mills. There, Emilie forms a deep friendship with Angeline Fournier, which gradually develops into feelings neither woman fully understands or feels free to pursue.

While Emilie longs for a life with Angeline, social expectations push them onto very different paths. Years later, tragedy reunites them, forcing both women to confront the love they once left behind and decide whether they are willing to defy convention for a chance at happiness together.