My Nemesis

More about the book

From the acclaimed author of Miss Burma comes a tense exploration of an intellectual affair and its impact on two couples. Tessa, a successful white woman writer, forms a friendship with Charlie, a rugged philosopher based in Los Angeles. Their connection, sparked by discussions on Camus and masculine desire, promises more, but obstacles arise. Tessa's husband Milton enjoys Charlie's visits, but Charlie's mixed-race Asian wife, Wah, becomes a complex adversary for Tessa. Tessa perceives Wah's traditional femininity and sacrifices as weaknesses, particularly in her role as an adoptive mother to Htet, a Burmese girl once homeless in Kuala Lumpur. However, Wah possesses her own kind of power, especially over Charlie, leading to tensions between the two women. Tessa's martini-fueled outburst, labeling Wah "an insult to womankind," forces her to confront the consequences of her words and her own biases. As she reflects on Wah's true strength, Tessa grapples with themes of empathy, betrayal, and the complexities of feminine rivalry. This captivating story delves into the thrill of shared connections and the perils they entail, showcasing the author's keen observations and graceful prose.