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"An unlikely love story set against the events of the last half-century in China . . . a poetic evocation of the country and its people." —The New York Times

When the Kitchen God is challenged by the Jade Emperor to fathom the workings of the human heart, he chooses to trace the lives of Jinyi and his wife, Yuying, from their blossoming love until their old age, in hope of finding an answer. The Kitchen God watches as government strictures split their family in two, living inside their hearts as they endure the losses of two children, homesickness, and isolation—all while keeping alive a love that survives famine, forced labor, and even death.

Under Fishbone Clouds is a universal romance, a family saga, and a journey through Chinese history, myth, and culture. Following a young couple as their love grows and is tested during Mao's Cultural Revolution, this elegant debut novel provides a rare and personal glimpse into the birth of modern China.

"A powerful and mesmerizing novel, both mythic and intimate. . . . a masterful accomplishment of imagination, insight, and lyricism." —Amy Tan, New York Times bestselling author of The Joy Luck Club

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Release date

Audiobook: January 13, 2026