The novel is a powerful tale of political struggle and personal fortitude set in a fictional Southeast Asian country resembling East Timor during the Indonesian invasion and subsequent occupation. It follows the journey of Adolph Ng, an ethnically Chinese gay man who becomes an unlikely hero as he is swept up in the resistance movement against the oppressive regime. As the conflict escalates, Adolph must navigate the complexities of war, loyalty, and courage, while confronting the challenges of his identity. The narrative delves into themes of colonialism, resistance, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.

The 6968th greatest book of all time