Soma Mei Sheng Frazier’s debut novel, “Off the Books,” is a gripping and intricate exploration of race, class, and the complexities of family in the shadow of the American Dream. The story centers on Jun, a young Chinese-American woman struggling to make ends meet as a freelance journalist in San Francisco’s competitive media landscape.

When Jun discovers a mysterious box containing evidence of her mother’s hidden past as a Chinese immigrant worker, her life takes a dramatic turn. The box holds not only documents but also the secret of her mother’s identity and a shadowy history of exploitation and hidden wealth. Driven by a desire to understand her mother and uncover the truth, Jun embarks on a dangerous journey that leads her to confront the ghosts of her family’s past and grapple with the legacy of their experiences.

Frazier weaves a compelling narrative, skillfully interweaving Jun’s present-day struggles with flashbacks that reveal the harrowing journey of her mother and grandmother during their immigration to America. The novel explores the enduring themes of family secrets, cultural identity, and the pursuit of justice in a society riddled with systemic inequalities.

While the story is fast-paced and suspenseful, it also delves into the emotional depths of Jun’s personal journey. The reader witnesses her struggles with self-doubt, grief, and the weight of her family’s history. Ultimately, “Off the Books” is a powerful and timely testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, reminding us that the pursuit of truth can be both liberating and painful.