Published by Atria Books Genres: Contempory, Drama, Fiction
Format: ARC, eBook
Debbie and Phil Tran are Vietnamese refugees living in Toronto. They have built a life for themselves there and own a nail salon. Everything appears to be going well for them until a glamourous chain nail salon opens across the street. With their livelihood threatened and an increase in their rent, they are willing to do what it takes to save their nail salon.
Debbie and Phil are not the only ones dealing with stressful events in their lives. Their daughter, Jessica, has returned from California after a breakup and their son, Dustin, is not being appreciated at work.
This book explores gentrification, family dynamics, the immigrant experience, community, and relationships. It is an enjoyable read and I enjoyed watching the family, especially Jessica and Dustin, find their footing and confidence.
This was a quick enjoyable read. Although I enjoyed it, it was lacking a little bit of something that garnered a higher rating. This book did prove to be thought provoking. Gentrification is very real and happens everywhere. This book showed how small businesses are affected when bigger stores come in.
Thank you to Atria Books and Edelweiss who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.