Brimming with charm, wit, and a truly original voice, this novella is perfect for fans of historical fiction who want a fresh perspective. Jade is a delightfully clever Malaysian Chinese protagonist making her way through 1920s London, and her diary entries are packed with both humor and insight. If you enjoy stories about unconventional women, a bit of romantic mischief, and sharp social commentary - all wrapped in a light, breezy read - you’ll love Jade Yeo’s adventures. Great for those who like Gail Carriger, Miss Fisher, or anyone looking for something outside the typical Regency or Edwardian settings.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you’re looking for a traditional romance or expect a grand sweeping love story, this might not quite hit the mark. The diary format, while unique, isn’t for everyone - some found it less immersive and thought it stretched believability in places. The novella’s short length may leave you wishing for more depth, and the light approach to potentially serious themes might not satisfy readers who want grittier historical fiction or stronger period authenticity.

A clever, quick, and refreshingly different romp through 1920s London with a memorable heroine. Enjoy it for the voice and wit; don’t expect a cookie-cutter romance.

About:

"The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo" by Zen Cho is a novella set in the 1920s London, following the adventures of a Malaysian Chinese girl named Jade Yeo. Jade, a writer living in London, finds herself entangled in a romantic storyline after writing a scathing review of a prominent author's book. The story is told through diary entries, showcasing Jade's unique voice and her desire for adventure in a time where societal norms are evolving.

Characters:

Characters are well-developed, particularly Jade, who embodies wit and defiance against societal expectations.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style employs diary entries to convey a witty and engaging voice, though it can come across as contrived for some readers.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows Jade Yeo, a Malaysian Chinese writer in London, as she navigates social challenges after publishing a negative book review, sparking an adventurous and risky journey.

Setting:

The setting in 1920s London enhances the narrative, immersing readers in the vibrant cultural and social landscape of the time.

Pacing:

The pacing is brisk, facilitating a rapid progression of events while accommodating character development.

I had tea with the intolerable aunt today. Aunt Iris, the one who is so rich she has a new fur every year, and so mean she has installed a tip box by the door of every WC in her house, so you have to ...

Notes:

The story is set in London in the 1920s.

The main character is a Malaysian Chinese girl named Jade Yeo, whose real name is Geok Huay.

Jade is a writer who earns her living writing articles and book reviews.

She writes a negative review of a book by Sebastian Hardie, a wealthy and well-connected author.

After publishing the review, she unexpectedly receives an invitation to a party from Sebastian.

The narrative is presented in diary form, spanning several months.

Jade's voice in the diary is described as witty and breezy.

The story explores themes of adventure, societal expectations, and romantic entanglements.

Jade faces personal risks and complications but ultimately seeks a happy ending.

Characters like Jade, Ravi (her friend), and Sebastian are well-developed despite the novella's short length.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of sexism, potential for infidelity, and socio-economic disparities.

Has Romance?

While the story includes a romantic subplot, it is not primarily a romance and features a more nuanced exploration of relationships.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

"Effervescent and sparkling like Champagne ... " - DearAuthor.com For writer Jade Yeo, the Roaring Twenties are coming in with more of a purr -- until she pillories London's best-known author in a scathing review.

Sebastian Hardie is tall, dark and handsome -- and more intrigued than annoyed. Jade is irresistibly drawn to the prospect of adventure he offers. But if she succumbs to temptation, she risks losing her hard-won freedom -- and her best chance for love.

The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo is a 23,000-word historical romance novella.

May 2012

•

83 pages

Ratings (1)

Incredible (1)

Reader Stats (2):

Read It (1)
Want To Read (1)

What can you read after
The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo?

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo

Zen Cho

Who Would Like This Book: