“A deftly crafted and riveting read from beginning to end.” —Midwest Book Review

When two lost souls find love, their devotion may be the ultimate sacrifice.

During China’s most chaotic period in history, a revolution creates thousands of innocent victims. Fearful citizens turn against one another and anyone accused of disloyalty to Chairman Mao is at risk of being sentenced to death. When best friends Pony Boy and Benfu get caught in the chaos, they must make heart-wrenching decisions regarding family, friendship, and courage.

The prequel to the beloved Tales of the Scavenger’s Daughters series, The Palest Ink depicts the trials of two young men—and the women they love—during the tumultuous years of the Cultural Revolution.