In celebrating, AAPI month, we have five wonderful new books from our AAPI authors.
When Clouds Touch Us
by Thanhhà Lai
HarperCollins, 256 pages, $18.99
In “When Clouds Touch Us”, a sequel to the bestselling "Inside Out and Back Again," Hà and
her family, Vietnamese refugees in America, face new challenges in Texas after settling in
Alabama. The narrative, inspired by the author's own childhood, delves into themes of resilience
and adaptation as Hà navigates the upheavals of relocation. Despite initial resistance to
change, Hà discovers unexpected opportunities for growth, friendship, and belonging. Lai's
evocative prose captures the nuances of the immigrant experience, portraying the complexities
of adjusting to a new life while holding onto one's cultural identity. Through Hà's journey,
readers witness the enduring strength of the human spirit amidst adversity, making this sequel a
poignant continuation of a remarkable story of survival and resilience.
Lies and Weddings
by Kevin Kwan
Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, 448 pages, $29
In Kevin Kwan's latest novel, readers are whisked away to a lavish tropical wedding, where
scandal and romance collide. Rufus Leung Gresham, poised to inherit his family's dwindling
fortune, must navigate a web of intrigue and temptation to save his legacy. With his mother's
scheme urging him to seduce a wealthy bride, Rufus faces a dilemma: follow duty or follow his
heart. Amidst a colorful cast of characters, including heiresses and venture capitalists, Rufus
grapples with love, desire, and long-hidden secrets. When chaos erupts at the wedding, the
Gresham family's carefully laid plans unravel, revealing shocking twists and unforeseen
tragedies. From Hawaii's beaches to Marrakech's skies, Kwan crafts a captivating tale brimming
with humor, suspense, and extravagant settings. In this juicy comedy of manners, Kwan
explores the intersections of love, money, and deception, keeping readers on the edge of their
seats until the very end.
Off the Books
by Soma Mei Sheng Frazier
Henry Holt and Co., 224 pages, $27.99
"Off the Books" tracks Mei, a recent Dartmouth dropout turned limo driver, drawn into the world
of sex work by her grandfather's persuasion. Her journey takes a transformative turn during a
road trip with enigmatic client Henry, whose secret confronts Mei's moral principles. This
coming-of-age tale explores resilience and moral dilemmas against the backdrop of an
unconventional American road trip. With Mei's evolving character and the revelations brought by
Henry, the narrative delves into the power of doing what's right even in the face of danger. "Off
the Books" offers a fresh perspective on the genre, leaving readers pondering the complexities
of human nature and the lasting impact of moral decisions. Frazier's characters resonate long
after the journey ends, reminding us of the enduring spirit within us all.
The Funeral Cryer
by Wenyan Lu
Hanover Square Press, 336 pages, $28.99
In Wenyan Lu's debut novel, "The Funeral Cryer," a woman in rural China faces the bleak
realities of her life: ostracism from her community and a failing marriage. However, when she
takes a leap of faith, her life takes an unexpected turn. Through dark humor and poignant
storytelling, Lu explores themes of resilience and transformation in a society often overlooked.
"The Funeral Cryer" offers a profound depiction of a marginalized community and the possibility
of redemption even in the darkest of circumstances. With shades of Yiyun Li and Julie Otsuka,
Lu's narrative captivates with its depth and wit, reminding readers that it's never too late to
rewrite one's story.
One Last Word
by Suzanne Park
HarperCollins, 288 pages, $18.99
Suzanne Park's latest novel, "One Last Word," follows tech entrepreneur Sara Chae on a
rollercoaster journey of self-discovery. Sara's app, designed to send posthumous messages,
accidentally sends her final words to all the important people in her life, including her crush,
venture capital mentor Harry. Amidst chaos and reopened wounds, Sara joins a venture capital
mentorship program, only to find Harry as her assigned mentor. As Sara navigates the fallout
and her burgeoning feelings, she learns to speak up and fight for her desires in both her career
and personal life. "One Last Word" is an empowering and humor-filled tale of resilience and love
in the tech world. Park's novel resonates with readers as Sara embraces her voice and
confronts the challenges of ambition and relationships.