Set against the backdrop of a devastating storm in Thailand, the story unfolds after a shipwreck leaves only one survivor—a white man. As he navigates the aftermath of the disaster, themes of survival, isolation, and cultural clash emerge. The narrative explores his struggle to adapt and the mysteries surrounding his ordeal, inviting readers to delve into a gripping tale of resilience and the human spirit amidst chaos.
Asian New Writing Vol. 1 is a showcase of short stories and place writing by both new and more established prize-winning writers. Some unexpected, a few surreal and others traditional, these are 23 compelling stories of irony, humanity and satire, exploring a range of subject matter to reveal a glimpse of modern Asian society and a funeral in India, a hotel encounter in Japan, a sleepless night in Hong Kong. Modern themes such as the chilling consequences of the environmental impact of logging, deforestation and the barbarism of the shark’s fin soup delicacy press on our collective conscience. Stories of work and travel give insight into the white-guy-in-Asia backpacker, courier and expat company manager. But no Asian fiction is complete without stories of food, family conflict, redemption and reconciliation. Rumaizah Abu Bakar, Patrick Burns, Cheung Louie, E.P. Chiew, Mason Croft, MK Eidson, Marc de Faoite, Jenny Hor, Nenad Jovancic, Lynett Khoh, Doc Krinberg, V.S. Lai, Ewan Lawrie, Winston Lim, Y.K. Lim, Yvonne Lyon, Sandeep Kumar Mishra, Ivy Ngeow, Krishnaveni Panikker, Sylvia Petter, Shafiqah Alliah Razman, San Lin Tun and Yang Ming. Surprising and entertaining, this anthology captures the paradox of richness, diversity and humor that is Asian culture. ★ Discover fascinating new writing set in Asia today. ★
CRY OF THE FLYING RHINO is set in 1996 Malaysia and Borneo, told from multiple viewpoints and in multiple voices. Malaysian Chinese family doctor Benjie Lee has had a careless one night stand with his new employee - mysterious, teenage Talisa, the adopted daughter of a wealthy, crass Scottish plantation owner, Ian, in the provincial Malaysian town of Segamat. Talisa's arms are covered in elaborate tattoos, symbolic of great personal achievements among the Iban tribe in her native Borneo. Talisa has fallen pregnant and Ian forces Benjie to marry her. Benjie, who relished his previous life as a carefree, cosmopolitan bachelor, struggles to adapt to life as a husband and father. Meanwhile, Minos - an Iban who has languished ten years in a Borneo prison for a murder he didn't commit - is released into English missionary Bernard's care. One day, Minos and his sidekick and fellow ex-convict Watan appear in Segamat, forcing Benjie to confront his wife's true identity and ultimately his own fears. Are the tattoos the key to her secrets?
Li-an embarks on a transformative journey when she secures a job overseas, but her unique qualities become both a blessing and a challenge. As she navigates new experiences, the story explores themes of self-discovery and the complexities of adapting to different cultures. The narrative intertwines her personal growth with her professional aspirations, highlighting the unexpected twists that come with pursuing one's dreams.
Phoebe Wong would do anything to escape a British winter. But it may cost her more than her airfare. Sunsets, tacos and margaritas all sound perfect to exhausted forty-three-year-old single mum Phoebe with a dead-end job in Southwark. When her long-distance boyfriend in New York invites her to meet him in Florida, she couldn't wait to jump on a plane with her toddler. Arriving with her teething child at her boyfriend's Key West 'vacay home' before him, she is robbed on her first night. With no money, cards or passports, she is grateful for the support of friendly locals. At a BBQ, she meets an old expat British businessman. Her boyfriend arrives eventually, apologetic, and takes her out to a posh seafood dinner. But when the British expat is shot that night in the same restaurant's car park, Phoebe is trapped in a put-up job, and her boyfriend's delayed arrival is suspiciously timed. If this place has turned darker and chillier than London, she wants out. Will she be able to pull herself and her daughter away from danger? Perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, Jennifer Hillier and Colleen Hoover. Dive in and start your adventure now.
Set against the backdrop of an enormous mansion and a bustling Chinese restaurant, the story follows handyman Jerome "Jay Jay" Lee as he embarks on what he believes is the perfect job. However, his dream quickly turns into a nightmare when he discovers that an underground tong has a vested interest in the mansion, complicating his life as he prepares for a baby on the way. The narrative intertwines themes of ambition, danger, and impending fatherhood.
Chicago 1980. Li-an Donohue's luck changes the instant she meets a mysterious Italian businessman, he offers her a job in Macau on the spot. From a drab Chicago winter to swimming pools, Semillon Blanc and lobster. It seems perfect. But easy livin' is harder than she thought. She's homesick. And beginning to think it might not be all it seems.