Upon the passing of the renowned cross-dressing Cantonese opera singer, Chan Kam Foong, her secret journal becomes an inheritance for her granddaughter, Xiu Yin, who works as an archival officer at the Singapore National Archives.
Delving into the pages of the journal, Xiu Yin unfolds the intricate tale of her grandmother's relationship with Dearest Intimate, tracing their connection from their humble beginnings in a village in China to their joint escapes to the Nanyang before the outbreak of World War II. The narrative unfolds the poignant chapters of her grandmother's relentless quest for Dearest Intimate in Singapore, as revealed through reflections and heartfelt letters.
As Xiu Yin immerses herself in these chronicles, she confronts the echoes of her own life, particularly her marriage to an abusive husband. The profound impact of her grandmother's reflections prompts Xiu Yin to summon the courage to break free from the oppressive relationship.
A surprising twist occurs when Xiu Yin encounters her first love, a burgeoning Cantonese opera singer, leading to a period of tranquillity and joy. However, when Meng proposes marriage, Xiu Yin hesitates, eventually causing him to depart for Hong Kong. The subsequent three years are marked by solitude and a continuous exchange of heartfelt letters before the two lovers reunite once more.
What a book full of culture, contemporary and romance! Without the opportunities given to me by Tandem Collective UK, I’d never have discovered books like this.
Thank you so much to the whole team at Tandem Collective UK, Tandem Collective Global, Marshall Cavendish and Nac Singapore for allowing this global read-along to take place!
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