DescriptionWelcome to one of America's most vibrant cities, what Ishmael Reed calls "planet city." He takes us behind the scenes of Oakland's Japanese jazz clubs and black cowboy parades, through its beautiful hills and waterfronts, and into its fascinating history. Although Oakland is often overshadowed by San Francisco, its neighbor across the Bay, it is an American wonder. The city is surrounded by natural beauty; its architecture mirrors its history as a Spanish mission, Gold Rush outpost, and early twentieth century home of the West's biggest robber barons. Today, Oakland may be most famous for its diverse communities of immigrants (in one district alone, more than two hundred languages are spoken) political radicals, and utopians.
DescriptionThe best selling author of Out on the Rim delivers a witty and ingenious thriller that builds character and suspense almost casually. Set on a small isolated beach city in southern California called Durango, this novel offers nonstop excitement and unexpected twists.
DescriptionGreg Monarch, an attorney in a small California town, must confront the demons of his past when his former law partner, Ira Sullivan, is accused of murder. Haunted by a case he lost years before, and up against a ruthless D.A. and a perfect witness, Greg searches for answers to what really happened on the night of the murder. He begins to uncover a plot much larger than he or Ira could have imagined. Will Greg's own sense of ethics and the law keep him from using the perfect witness in Ira's defense?
DescriptionFollow the epic story of Hope Newfield and Liang Po-yu, who fall in love despite the bigotry and societal taboos present in California during the era of World War II. Hope teaches English to foreign students. Liang Po-yu is an idealistic Chinese scholar-revolutionary who is determined to bring democracy to his imperial homeland. Defying conventions of blatant bigotry they marry and start a family before they return to China. In the turmoil of the times, their love is tested by personal tragedy, betrayal, divided loyalties, and conflicting ambitions. Drawing on the true story of her grandparents' marriage, Aimee Liu has written an unforgettable story which resonates with authenticity and emotion.
