From the publisher: "a startlingly original historical fantasy infused with Chinese folklore, romantic intrigue, and unexpected supernatural twists." Add Audible narration for $12.99.

BOTM Club called this a "magical tale set in colonial Malaysia. If someone told me there's a book out there that's part history, part love story, part coming-of-age, part magical tale... It sounds too good to be true. But here's the thing: This book exists. This is a book that has something for everyone. There's a central mystery to satisfy puzzle-solving readers. There's a will-they-won't-they love story to tug at the heartstrings of every romantic. There's a touch of magic for fantasy fans; a portrait of colonial Malaysia for history buffs; and enough family drama to please those looking for a moving saga. Equal parts nail-biter and heartwarmer, this book transported me into a world entirely unlike my own." For fans of Isabel Allende and Min Jin Lee.

This lyrical historical novel and sophisticated detective tale is very much in the vein of Choo’s previous works The Ghost Bride and The Night Tiger, inspired by Japanese fox folklore. In 1908 Manchuria, a young girl's mysterious death brings together a servant, a detective, and a wealthy family. Gradually the reader comes to understand the vast world of fox folklore, the terror of a family curse, the reasons a mother is bent on revenge, and the stakes for all involved. This was lovely on audio, narrated by the author, but because the plot is intricate I had to pay close attention, occasionally even rewinding to re-listen to certain passages.