The first novel from the internationally bestselling, Booker-shortlisted author of The Garden of Evening Mists.
LONGLISTED FOR THE BOOKER PRIZE
Penang, 1939. Being half Chinese and half English, Philip Hutton always felt like he never belonged. That is until he befriends Hayato Endo, a mysterious Japanese diplomat and master in the art of aikido. But when Japan invades Malaya, Philip realises Endo bears a secret, one powerful enough to jeopardise everything he loves.
This masterful debut conjures an unforgettable tale of courage, brutality, loyalty, deceit and love.
'Thoughtful, evocative, undoubtedly provocative' - Guardian