Only a Girl
Larry Stueck (San Francisco Bay Area)  Only a Girl is a masterpiece of storytelling.  In rich and complex prose Lian Gouw develops her characters around a backdrop of multi cultures and the dramatic history of Dutch rule, Japanese occupation and Indonesian Revolution.  Though Only a Girl may seem to have a wider appeal to women, Gouw's methodic use of universal values such as ambition, pride, security, fear and love draws all readers into the story irrespective of gender. Lian Gouw is a gifted writer who is able to capture her reader's attention not only throughout the book but even for some time after The End. --amazon.comBy K. L. Anderson (Northern California)  This review is from: Only a Girl (Paperback)  "Only a Girl" takes place in Indonesia where women's choices were limited by culture and family expectations. Against a backdrop of invasion and upheaval, Carolien tries to make a life for herself on her own terms. Great character development and fascinating historical details make this a great read. Highly recommended. --amazon.comBy Brigitte Carnochan "photographer" (California, USA) This review is from: Only a Girl (Paperback)  The history and culture that Lian Gouw narrates so compellingly was almost unknown to me. I kept turning the pages eagerly, wanting to see how the intricate plot unfolded. I believed in the characters. I hope this author is at work on her next novel. --amazon.com