8 Must-Read Books Releasing in June 2024 by Asian Authors
As the summer sun begins to shine, there's no better time to dive into a new book. This June, we’re celebrating the rich and diverse voices of Asian authors with a curated list of must-read releases. Get ready to update your reading list with these exciting new titles from some of the most talented Asian writers of 2024!
Tehrangeles by Porochista Khakpour
Meet the Milanis: fast-food heiresses, L.A. royalty, and your newest reality TV obsession.
Iranian-American multimillionaires Ali and Homa Milani have it all—a McMansion in the hills of Los Angeles, a microwaveable snack empire, and four spirited daughters. There’s Violet, the big-hearted aspiring model; Roxanna, the chaotic influencer; Mina, the chronically online overachiever; and impressionable health fanatic Haylee. On the verge of landing their own reality TV show, the Milanis realize their deepest secrets are about to be dragged out into the open before the cameras even roll. Each of the Milanis—even their aloof Persian cat Pari—has something to hide, but the looming scrutiny of fame also threatens to bring the family closer than ever. Dramatic and biting yet full of heart, Tehrangeles is a tragicomic saga about high-functioning family dysfunction and the ever-present struggle to accept one’s true self.
Publication date: June 1, 2024
Genres: Adult fiction, Contemporary, Literary fiction
Why should you read it? Enchant yourself with a captivating and dramatic glimpse into the lives of the Milanis, Iranian-American multimillionaires and L.A. royalty, as they navigate the impending exposure of their deepest secrets with the advent of their reality TV show. With a mix of humor and heart, the story delves into the chaotic yet endearing dynamics of a family on the brink of fame, highlighting their struggles, aspirations, and the quest for self-acceptance. The unique blend of high-functioning dysfunction and poignant moments makes it a compelling and entertaining read.
Tiananmen Square by Lai Wen
An epic, deeply moving coming-of-age novel about young love and lasting friendships forged in the years leading up to the Tiananmen Square student protests, for readers of The Beekeeper of Aleppo and The Night Tiger.
As a child in Beijing in the 1970s, Lai lives with her family in a lively, working-class neighborhood near the heart of the city. Thoughtful yet unassuming, she spends her days with her friends beyond the attention of her Her father is a reclusive figure who lingers in the background, while her mother, an aging beauty and fervent patriot, is quick-tempered and preoccupied with neighborhood gossip. Only Lai's grandmother, a formidable and colorful maverick, seems to really see Lai and believe that she can blossom beyond their circumstances.
But Lai is quickly awakened to the harsh realities of the Chinese state. A childish prank results in a terrifying altercation with police that haunts her for years; she also learns that her father, like many others, was broken during the Cultural Revolution. As she enters adolescence, Lai meets a mysterious and wise bookseller who introduces her to great works-Hemingway, Camus, and Orwell, among others-that open her heart to the emotional power of literature and her mind to thrillingly different perspectives. Along the way, she experiences the ebbs and flows of friendship, the agony of grief, and the first steps and missteps in love.
A gifted student, Lai wins a scholarship to study at the prestigious Peking University where she soon falls in with a theatrical band of individualists and misfits dedicated to becoming their authentic selves, despite the Communist Party's insistence on conformity-and a new world opens before her. When student resistance hardens under the increasingly restrictive policies of the state, the group gets swept up in the fervor, determined to be heard, joining the masses of demonstrators and dreamers who display remarkable courage and loyalty in the face of danger. As 1989 unfolds, the spirit of change is in the air…
Drawn from her own life, Lai Wen's novel is mesmerizing and haunting-a universal yet intimate story of youth and self-discovery that plays out against the backdrop of a watershed historic event. Tiananmen Square captures the hope and idealism of a new generation and the lasting price they were willing to pay in the name of freedom.
Publication date: June 4, 2024
Genres: Historical fiction, Fiction, Contemporary
Why should you read it? “Tiananmen Square” offers an epic and deeply moving coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the Tiananmen Square protests, capturing the essence of young love, enduring friendships, and the struggle for freedom in the face of oppressive political forces. Through the eyes of Lai, a thoughtful and resilient girl growing up in 1970s Beijing, the novel explores the transformative power of literature, the impact of political upheaval, and the journey of self-discovery. Drawing from personal experiences, the author weaves a mesmerizing and universal tale that resonates with readers of historical and emotional narratives like "The Beekeeper of Aleppo" and "The Night Tiger."
The God and the Gumiho (Fate’s Thread #1) by Sophie Kim
In this sly and dazzling contemporary fantasy, the most notorious nine-tailed fox in Korea pairs up with a trickster god–turned–detective to track down a wrathful demon . . . before it can destroy the mortal world.
Kim Hani has retired from a life of devouring souls. She is, simply put, too full. Once known as the infamous Scarlet Fox, she now spends her days working in a coffee shop and annoying a particularly irritating, if unfairly handsome, trickster god as often as she can.
That god is Seokga the Fallen. Exiled from the heavenly kingdom of Okhwang, he now begrudgingly resides in the mortal realm, working toward his redemption and suffering through his interactions with the particularly infuriating, if sneakily charming, gumiho barista at his favorite café.
But when a powerful demon escapes from the underworld and threatens to end all of humanity, Okhwang’s emperor offers Seokga an enticing bargain: Kill this rogue creature, as well as the legendary and elusive Scarlet Fox, and he will be reinstated as a god. Hani, however, has no intention of being caught. Seokga might be a trickster god, but she has a trick of her own that he’ll never see coming: teaming up. As Seokga’s assistant, Hani will undermine and sabotage his investigation right under his overly pointy nose. Sure, she’ll help him kill the demon, but she certainly won’t allow him to uncover her secret identity while they’re at it.
As the bickering partners track their case down a path of mayhem and violence, the god and the gumiho find themselves inescapably drawn to each other. But will the unlikely couple stand together to prevent the apocalypse, or will they let their secrets tear them—and the world—apart?
Publication date: June 4, 2024
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Adult
Why should you read it? “The God and the Gumiho” combines sly humor, captivating fantasy, and thrilling adventure as it follows the notorious nine-tailed fox Kim Hani and the exiled trickster god Seokga on their mission to stop a rogue demon from destroying the mortal world. Their partnership, filled with witty banter and underlying tension, offers an engaging dynamic as they navigate mayhem and secrets. This contemporary fantasy promises a unique blend of folklore, romance, and suspense, making it a must-read for fans of inventive and enchanting stories.
A fast-paced, high-kicking debut that’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon meets Stand Up, Yumi Chung as a young taekwondo artist uses an ancient book to help save her dreams—and her father.
Twelve-year-old Modesty “Mo” Seto dreams of being a taekwondo champion. Even though her mom disapproves, Mo can always count on her dad, who is her number one fan and biggest supporter. Lately, Mo has been on a losing streak, and it doesn’t help that she keeps losing to her archnemesis, Dax, who’s much bigger than her. If only she were faster, stronger, not so petite. Mo can’t even lean on her dad like usual with how distracted he’s been lately.
When Mo learns about the chance to audition to star alongside her idol and legendary martial artist and movie star Cody Kwok, she knows this her chance to prove to her dad, to the world, and to herself that she can compete with anyone, no matter her size. Unfortunately, Dax is auditioning, too. As Mo and her nemesis progress to callbacks, someone attempts to sabotage the movie set and Mo’s dad disappears—and both events seem linked to a mysterious book, the Book of Joy.
The book contains information on a secret dance-like martial art developed by Mo’s ancestral grandmother. Armed with these powerful moves and an unexpected ally, Mo embarks on a high-octane adventure to rescue her father, save the movie, and discover an unexpected joy in being small.
Publication date: June 4, 2024
Genres: Middle grade, Fantasy, Adventure
Why should you read it? “The Legendary Mo Seto” offers a thrilling and heartwarming adventure that combines martial arts action with a touching story of family and self-discovery. Twelve-year-old Mo Seto, a determined taekwondo artist, must overcome personal challenges and a mysterious sabotage plot while auditioning for a movie with her idol. With the help of an ancient book and a secret martial art, she embarks on a high-stakes mission to rescue her father and prove her worth. This fast-paced debut is perfect for readers who love action, heartfelt moments, and inspiring tales of perseverance.
The Cookie Crumbles by Tracy Badua & Alechia Dow
The Great British Bake Off meets Knives Out in this fun and propulsive middle grade novel following two best friends who must solve the mystery behind a baking competition gone awry.
Laila gave Lucy a cupcake on the second day of kindergarten, and they've been inseparable ever since. But the summer before eighth grade, they find out that since they live on opposite sides of town, they’ll go to different high schools. Yuck!
Then Laila’s invited to compete at the Golden Cookie competition, which awards its winner admission and a full ride to the prestigious Sunderland boarding school, and it’s the perfect opportunity. Sunderland doesn’t just have an elite culinary program; it’s also home to an elite journalism track, if only newscaster-hopeful Lucy could build up a strong enough portfolio to impress the scholarship committee.
But when one of the celebrity judges collapses after sampling Laila’s showpiece, rumors of foul play swirl, with Laila rising to the top of the suspect list. Even worse, a major storm has effectively cut off all access to the outside world.
Can the girls find the real culprit and clear Laila’s name before it’s too late?
Publication date: June 11, 2024
Genres: Middle grade, Mystery, Thriller, Food
Why should you read it? The charm of "The Great British Bake Off" meets the intrigue of "Knives Out" in this delightful middle grade mystery. Best friends Laila and Lucy face the dual challenge of solving a whodunit and securing their futures at the prestigious Sunderland boarding school. With Laila falsely accused of poisoning a judge at the Golden Cookie competition and a storm isolating them from help, the girls must use their wits and teamwork to uncover the real culprit. This fast-paced, heartwarming tale of friendship, ambition, and sleuthing is perfect for young readers who enjoy culinary adventures and thrilling mysteries.
Of Jade and Dragons (Fall of the Dragon #1) by Amber Chen
Eighteen-year-old Aihui Ying dreams of becoming a brilliant engineer just like her beloved father - but her life is torn apart when she arrives a moment too late to stop his murder, and worse, lets the killer slip out of reach. Left with only a journal containing his greatest engineering secrets and a jade pendant snatched from the assassin, Ying vows to take revenge into her own hands.
Disguised as her brother, Ying heads to the capital city, and discovers that the answer to finding who killed her father lies behind the walls of the prestigious Engineers Guild - the home of a past her father never wanted to talk about. With the help of an unlikely ally - Aogiya Ye-yang, a taciturn (but very handsome) young prince - Ying must navigate a world fraught with rules, challenges and politics she can barely grasp, let alone understand.
But to survive, she must fight to stay one step ahead of everyone. And when faced with the choice between doing what's right and what's necessary, Ying will have to decide if her revenge is truly worthwhile, if it means going against everything her father stood for . . .
Publication date: June 18, 2024
Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance
Why should you read it? “Of Jade and Dragons” follows eighteen-year-old Aihui Ying, whose quest for revenge and justice for her father's murder leads her to disguise herself as her brother and infiltrate the prestigious Engineers Guild. Armed with her father's journal of engineering secrets and aided by a young prince, Ying must navigate complex political intrigues and moral dilemmas, ultimately questioning whether her pursuit of vengeance is worth compromising her father's values.
Death in the Air by Ram Murali
The White Lotus meets Knives Out meets Crazy Rich Asians in this devilishly entertaining debut novel: both a sophisticated locked-room mystery in the tradition of Agatha Christie, and a provocative literary whodunit for the twenty-first century.
Ro Krishna is the American son of Indian parents, educated at the finest institutions, equally at home in London’s poshest clubs and on the squash court, but unmoored after he is dramatically forced to leave a high-profile job under mysterious circumstances. He decides it’s time to check in for some much-needed R&R at Samsara, a world-class spa for the global cosmopolitan elite nestled in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas. A person could be spiritually reborn in a place like this. Even a very rich person.
But a person—or several—could also die there. Samsara is the Sanskrit word for the karmic cycle of death and rebirth, after all. And as it turns out, the colorful cast of characters Ro meets—including a misanthropic politician; an American movie star preparing for his Bollywood crossover debut; a beautiful heiress to a family jewel fortune that barely survived Partition; and a bumbling white yogi inexplicably there to teach meditation—harbors a murderer among them. Maybe more than one.
As the death toll rises, Ro, a lawyer by training and a sleuth by circumstance, becomes embroiled in a vicious world under a gilded surface, where nothing is quite what it seems . . . including Ro himself. Death in the Air is a brilliant, teasing mystery from a remarkable new talent.
Publication date: June 18, 2024
Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Fiction
Why should you read it? “Death in the Air” blends the sophisticated intrigue of a locked-room mystery with the glamour and complexity of a literary whodunit, featuring Ro Krishna, an American of Indian descent navigating the luxurious yet treacherous Samsara spa in the Indian Himalayas. As Ro mingles with a diverse and enigmatic group of elite guests, he becomes an accidental detective unraveling a series of murders, uncovering hidden motives, and revealing dark secrets beneath the glittering facade of opulence and spiritual rebirth.
Daughter of Calamity by Rosalie M. Lin
Jingwen spends her nights as a showgirl at the Paramount, one of the most lavish clubs in Shanghai, competing ruthlessly to charm wealthy patrons. To cap off her shifts, she runs money for her grandmother, the exclusive surgeon to the most powerful gang in the city. A position her grandmother is pressuring her to inherit…
When a series of cabaret dancers are targeted―the attacker stealing their faces―Jingwen fears she could be next. And as the faces of the dancers start appearing on wealthy foreign socialites, she realizes Shanghai's glittering mirage of carefree luxury comes at a terrible price.
Fighting not just for her own safety but that of the other dancers―women who have simultaneously been her bitterest rivals and only friends―Jingwen has no choice but to delve into the city's underworld. In this treacherous realm of tangled alliances and ancient grudges, silver-armed gangsters haunt every alley, foreign playboys broker deals in exclusive back rooms, and the power of gods is wielded and traded like yuan. Jingwen will have to become something far stranger and more dangerous than her grandmother ever imagined if she hopes to survive the forces waiting to sell Shanghai's bones.
Publication date: June 18, 2024
Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Adult
Why should you read it? Set against the glamorous yet perilous backdrop of 1930s Shanghai, this riveting novel follows showgirl Jingwen as she navigates the treacherous underworld to uncover the truth behind a series of brutal attacks on her fellow dancers. Balancing her dangerous side job for her grandmother, the city's most powerful gang-affiliated surgeon, Jingwen must confront gangsters, foreign socialites, and mystical forces. As she fights to protect herself and her friends, Jingwen's journey reveals the dark, hidden costs of Shanghai's opulent facade, forcing her to become far more formidable than she ever imagined.
