When an American couple vanishes in Kuala Lumpur, their teenager struggles to survive. Meanwhile, three entrepreneurs envision their Silicon Valley startup. Years later, the company relocates to Shanghai, where its members enjoy a frivolous expat lifestyle. That is until an executive’s wife disappears.
Sequel – FIRM DENIAL – available 2019
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Excerpt — (Part 4)
August was an especially hot month in Shanghai. Curt and I had been married and living in China for over a year.
At first, I was wary of Curt’s affection, because it was so unreal. However, he eventually wore me down. Only his father and some of our closest friends attended a small ceremony in Chicago. Curt’s mother had died of cancer in 2012.
Marriage initially provided me with security, because I no longer had to worry about money. However, it also imposed a variety of restrictions and expectations that I found incredibly stressful.
Where we lived was an oasis within the hectic city. I was practically within walking distance of a tranquil Buddhist Temple that dated back to the 7th century. But I was also steps away from millions of people fiercely pursuing their livelihood.