For fans of Americanah and The Lowland, this debut novel explores the journey of an immigrant couple during the Great Recession. With empathy and wit, the story delves into themes of marriage, class, race, and the complexities of the American dream. Jende Jonga, a Cameroonian immigrant in Harlem, seeks a better life for his wife, Neni, and their young son. In fall 2007, Jende secures a job as a chauffeur for Clark Edwards, a senior executive at Lehman Brothers. Eager to impress, Jende adheres to Clark’s demands for punctuality and loyalty. Meanwhile, Neni finds temporary work at the Edwardses’ summer home, offering the couple a glimpse of the American dream. However, beneath the surface of privilege lie troubling secrets, and the couple soon sees the cracks in their employers’ lives. As the financial world collapses with Lehman Brothers, the Jongas struggle to maintain Jende’s job while their marriage faces strain. This upheaval forces them to confront difficult choices. Advance praise highlights the author’s beautiful, thoughtful prose and the novel's exploration of the immigrant experience and the realities of life in the United States.
