If You Leave me

“An immersive heartbreaking story about war passion and the road not taken.” — People One of the most beautiful and moving love stories you’ll read this year. — Nylon Magazine NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY The Washington Post • The New York Post • Vulture • Real Simple • Bustle • Nylon • Thrillist • Mental Floss • Self magazine • Booklist • Refinery 29 An emotionally riveting debut novel about war family and forbidden love—the unforgettable saga of two illfated lovers in Korea and the heartbreaking choices they’re forced to make in the years surrounding the civil war that still haunts us today. When the communistbacked army from the north invades her home sixteenyearold Haemi Lee along with her widowed mother and ailing brother is forced to flee to a refugee camp along the coast. For a few hours each night she escapes her family’s makeshift home and tragic circumstances with her childhood friend Kyunghwan. Focused on finishing school Kyunghwan doesn’t realize his older and wealthier cousin Jisoo has his sights set on the beautiful and spirited Haemi—and is determined to marry her before joining the fight. But as Haemi becomes a wife then a mother her decision to forsake the boy she always loved for the security of her family sets off a dramatic saga that will have profound effects for generations to come. Richly told and deeply moving If You Leave Me is a stunning portrait of war and refugee life a passionate and timeless romance and a heartrending exploration of one woman’s longing for autonomy in a rapidly changing world.