The Leftover Woman is a genre bending, tight and concise novel by Jean Kwok. I was amazed at what a detailed story Kwok weaves in under 300 pages, blending characteristics of literary fiction, mystery, and family drama. At times I thought I knew where this plot was going, but I certainly did not. 

Told from the perspective of a Chinese immigrant without papers and the high powered publishing editor who adopted a Chinese daughter, this story pulls on heartstrings and keeps the tension taut throughout. How Kwok stays on that tightrope was very impressive. 

I recommend this book to almost anyone because it blends so many genres and creates deep, dynamic characters that you feel for but can't consistently agree with while moving towards a plot crescendo that you can feel viscerally. 

I'd suggest going in relatively blind, but expect themes around the one child policy of China, adoption, fidelity, and how far a mother will go for her child. The Leftover Woman is well deserving of a spot on your TBR.