Rachel A. (ra7) reviewed on 12/27/2023 + 1026 more book reviews

This is Khai's story (Michael's cousin from the first book). This book works as a stand alone. Khai is autistic so he processes things differently. When Andy, his best friend and one of his cousins, is killed in a motorcycle accident, he is the only one who doesn't cry at the funeral. And people notice. Khai knows he is different and for the most part accepts it. Except he decides that it must mean he can't love someone and should be alone. He buries his loneliness in routine (work, exercise).
My (Esme) grew up poor with a single mom. Her father was an American visitor who got her mother pregnant, she only knows him as "Phil." Things go backwards again for My when she gets pregnant. It turns out the guy was only using her and had no intention of being with her. Society looks down on them both because they are poor, but also because of being a single parent. My works as a hotel maid. So when she is presented with an opportunity to come to the U.S. for the summer for a possible marriage, so she jumps at the chance.
I loved My. She is someone who wanted to do and be better. Her growth throughout the book was amazing. She realizes her worth and decides she deserves to go after her dreams. I also liked Khai and he comes a long way too. He realizes that, yes, he is capable of loving someone. I did think Khai's mom, while she clearly loves her son, was a bit pushy and didn't really seem to understand his autism like his older brother Quan (whose story is next!).
I did like the unexpected ending (and we get an epilogue- which was needed). I did think the ending was rushed a bit.

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