Danielle Steel's Zoya - Parts 1 & 2 (1995)
This 1995 NBC television mini-series adaptation of Danielle Steel'sZoyachronicles the life of Russian Countess Zoya Ossupov (Melissa Gilbert) through times of revolution, war, love, wealth, poverty, death and birth.  Zoya's saga begins in St. Petersberg, Russia in 1917 when a young Zoya witnesses the execution of her parents during the Russian Revolution.  Fleeing to Paris with her Grandmother, the two barely manage to support themselves thanks to Zoya's dancing skills and the Ballet Russe.  A handsome American soldier changes their life for the better, but tragedy strikes again in America and Zoya is once again left alone, this time with two young children to support.  More sacrifices ensue, but when an apartment fire threatens her children's very lives, Zoya vows never again to let her family be torn apart.  A second love with a famous American clothier brings Zoya a much-deserved happiness, but threatens to destroy an already tenuous relationship with her daughter Sasha (Jennifer Garner).  Two major themes resonate throughout the production: "tragedy teaches many lessons" and "time is always kind because it gives back to us what we've lost through memories and wisdom."  Known for her appealing characters and exciting story lines, Danielle Steel'sZoyais just as compelling on screen as it is in print.--Tami Horiuchi