One starless night, a girl’s childhood was swept away by the terrors of the Khmer Rouge. Exiled from the city, she and her family were forced to live out in the open under constant surveillance. Each night, people were taken away. Caught up in a political storm which brought starvation to millions, tore families apart, and changed the world forever, she lost everyone she loved.

Three decades later, Janie’s life in Montreal is unravelling. Haunted by her past, she has abandoned her husband and son and taken refuge in the home of her friend, the brilliant, troubled scientist, Hiroji Matsui. In 1970, Hiroji’s brother, James, travelled to Cambodia and fell in love. Five years later, the Khmer Rouge came to power, and James vanished. Brought together by the losses they endured, Janie and Hiroji had found solace in each another. And then, one strange day, Hiroji disappeared.

Engulfed by the memories she thought she had fled, Janie must struggle to find grace in a world overshadowed by the sorrows of her past.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Thank you so much for this wishlist book and the lovely goodies you sent for my birthday!

Janie is the only survivor of her family, living in Canada now. She’s a neurologist – doing brain research, especially regarding memory loss. But her own memories creep into her life and throw her off balance… This is a powerful, quiet novel about a childhood under the Khmer Rouge, and about the fate of a Japanese aid worker who didn't leave in time, incredibly sad and beautiful. Fiction as far as I know – but it could as well be a true story, it’s very well researched.

(Photo: In some village in Northern Laos)

Travelling to thy!

Thanks a lot for the wishlist book and the labels!

miittiin

This book looks interesring indeed!
Thank you very much kind Bookcrossers!

This book was not an easy book to read. I was sad and angry for the inhumane treatment of people. But those who don't die are compelled to continue their lives in spite of the terrible memories. Civil war is like that everywhere.

This is my book #53 in the Reduce Mount TBR 2018 -challence by Dove-i-libri.

I left the book under the roof of St Leonard's Hospital which is part of Yorkshire Museum.

Happy reading!

Book #56 in the 2018 Keep Them Moving -challence by Booklady331