Real Americans takes you on a journey through the intricate tapestry of one Chinese American family, exploring the deeply personal choices that shape our identities and relationships.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City in 1999, the story begins with Lily Chen, a hopeful unpaid intern chasing the American Dream. When she falls for a wealthy financier, the allure of a luxurious life seems tantalizingly close. However, as Lily grapples with the expectations of her ambitious mother, Mei, who fled the traumas of Mao’s cultural revolution, we see the tension between dreams and reality unfold.

Fast forward twenty years, and we meet Lily's teenage son, Nick, who is increasingly distanced from his mother and searching for his own path on a remote island in Washington State. Nick’s quest to forge a better life leads him to confront the unspoken legacy left by his grandmother and the choices that have defined his family. As he delves into the past, he learns that understanding where we come from is essential to navigating where we are going.

Real Americans is more than just a family drama; it's a powerful exploration of fate, fortune, and belonging. With its richly layered narrative spanning generations and continents, this novel promises to resonate with anyone who has ever questioned their identity, their family ties, or the sacrifices made for the ones we love. It invites readers to reflect on their own stories, making it a captivating read for all.