Jasmine Cheng's carefully constructed world of myth and fantasy is shattered by the arrival of her mother's past love, forcing her to confront a reality she has long avoided. Jasmine, who has always relied on the fantastical stories her mother weaves to maintain a semblance of stability, finds her role as protector threatened by the reappearance of Cal, an old flame of her mother's. This intrusion destabilizes their already precarious home life, which is under scrutiny from a social worker. The narrative unfolds as Jasmine embarks on a cross-country journey, blurring the lines between her imaginative world and the harsh truths of her family's history, as she seeks to uncover the secrets her mother keeps hidden.

The premise sets up a compelling exploration of a young protagonist caught between imaginative escapism and the difficult truths of her family life. The blend of mythology and contemporary issues suggests a narrative that will resonate with readers who appreciate magical realism and coming-of-age stories. The focus on a mother-daughter relationship under strain, coupled with the protagonist's quest for truth, points to a deeply personal and emotionally resonant experience. The author's debut is characterized as introducing a remarkable new voice in young adult fiction, promising a lyrical and poignant portrayal of growing up.