Decades after successful Chinese writer Hong Ying escaped the slums of her childhood, she discovers that time and distance cannot protect her from the past.

When word of her mother’s imminent death reaches Hong Ying in London, she races home to Chongqing only to find she’s too late. While she tries to come to terms with her estranged mother’s passing, she must navigate her family’s delicate social structure—and their long-held silence. Soon Hong Ying starts to ask unwelcome questions, and as old secrets are exposed, she must face not only what is revealed but also her own choices in love and marriage during the many years of her absence.

In this bittersweet memoir, internationally bestselling author Hong Ying explores trauma, forgiveness, and truth—and attempts to reconcile her painful memories with the beautiful life she hopes to create.

Translated by: Gary Xu, Shelly Bryant, Nick Brown