Reviewed By: Sandi - RAM
Flash House
Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Aimee Liu
Class/Genre: Mystery Woman Main Character
2003, Warner Brothers, 496 pp.
"Flash House", by Aimee Liu, is the story of Joanna Shaw and Kamla, and how they are brought together in a time of political torment. Set in Delhi, India, Joanna Shaw is running a mission for young girls/women who have been forced into prostitution. Kamla is an eleven year old girl sold to a brothel. They meet just as Joanna's journalist husband, Aidan, departs to follow a lead for a story. Back home in the States, he is under suspicion for espionage and communist activity. He is seeking to clear his name by uncovering other communist activities.
Just as Kamla becomes safe residing at Safe Haven, Aidan becomes missing after a plane crash. Joanna and her son, Simon, rush off to try to get information about him. She is unconvinced he was killed. Thus a walking journey from India into Communist China begins, trying to locate Aidan. She is accompanied by Aidan's friend, Lawrence Malcomb, who also has a journalistic/political background. During the journey, they are also searching for information regarding Kamla's family. They encounter physical as well as human obstacles. Together, though, the small group continues its search clear through to the end.
This is a beautifully told story. It moves between Joanna and Kamla, emotionally bound through the crisis. The descriptions are so distinct, you feel you can reach out and touch the terrain. The powerful feelings and anxieties are projected clearly. Different cultures and nationalities are described flawlessly.
"Flash House" is a powerful story, well told. I enjoyed it immensely.
Sandi - RAM
Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Sandi - RAM
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