Haiwen and Suchi grew up together in the same neighborhood of Shanghai. Instantly forming a connection, it is inevitable that they will spend their lives together. But when Haiwen enlists in the Nationalist army, the war separates them for years. Suchi never hears from Haiwen again, and through choices outside her control, eventually moves forward with her life. After a chance encounter 60 years later, Haiwen and Suchi are finally able to piece together what happened all those years ago. 

 

At its heart, Chen’s debut novel grapples with intense themes: home, identity, and belonging. Chen showed me a history I knew nothing about - from the Chinese Civil War to the Cultural Revolution to the collective Chinese diaspora - there is longing and loss permeating on every page. Meticulously researched, Chen portrayed the complexities of modern Chinese war and politics and the effects on its people brilliantly. She captured the loss and confusion so well. When I finished, I couldn’t help but think that this is yet another story that demonstrates the true cost of war on ordinary, everyday citizens. 

 

In addition to the portrayal of Chinese history, I was equally invested in Haiwen and Suchi’s story. I rooted for them and hoped they would be able to overcome the odds stacked agains them. Admittedly, I was a little frustrated with the narrative structure and feel like that choice - thought unique and brave on Chen’s part - did mess with the pacing a bit. Overall though, a memorable read that I highly recommend!