1939, Shanghai: Beautiful local Li and Jewish refugee Romy form a fierce friendship, but the deepening shadows of World War II fall over the women as they slip between the city's glamorous French Concession district and the teeming streets of the Shanghai Ghetto. 2016: Alexandra returns to Australia from London to be with her grandparents, Romy and Wilhelm. Her grandfather is dying, and over the coming weeks Romy and Wilhelm begin to reveal the family mysteries they have kept secret for more than half a century. After Wilhelm dies, Alexandra flies to Shanghai, determined to trace her grandparents' past-- and the truth about her family and herself.

Originally published under the title: Jade Lily. Australia : Allen & Unwin, 2018. With P.S. insights, interviews & more at the back of the book.