Heiress (Daughters of the Dynasty)

The epic first novel in a sweeping series follows the romantic lives and intrigues of the fictionalized descendants of a Chinese empress. Behind every great family lies a great secret. There's one rule in Gemma Huang's family: Never, under any circumstances, set foot in Beijing. Gemma, an aspiring actress, lands her first break—a lead role in an update of M. Butterfly, which just so happens to be filming in the Chinese capital. Gemma heads to LAX without looking back, seizing the amazing opportunity for her burgeoning career and the chance to work with her idol. However, she must also confront the reason she has been forbidden from entering the city in the first place.

Upon arrival in Beijing, Gemma is instantly mobbed by paparazzi at the airport. She quickly realizes she may as well be the twin of Alyssa Chua, one of the most notorious young socialites in Beijing. This kicks off a season of revelations and romance in which Gemma uncovers a legacy her parents have spent their lives protecting her from—one her mother would conceal at any cost.

Gemma's family has kept a great secret for generations, and her decision to pursue her acting career in Beijing will force her to confront this hidden past. As she navigates the complex social landscape of the Chinese capital, Gemma must balance her professional aspirations with the personal revelations that threaten to upend her entire understanding of who she is and where she comes from.

The fictionalized descendants of a Chinese empress are at the heart of this sweeping saga, which explores the power of family, the weight of legacy, and the universal desire to find one's true self. Through Gemma's journey, readers are immersed in the glamour and intrigue of modern Beijing, while also delving into the rich tapestry of Chinese history and culture that has shaped her family's fate.

As Gemma's story unfolds, she must wrestle with the consequences of her decision to break her family's cardinal rule and venture to the city she has been forbidden to visit. Will she uncover the truth about her family's past, and in doing so, will she find the courage to embrace her own destiny? This epic first novel in the series promises to captivate readers with its blend of romance, mystery, and the powerful exploration of identity and belonging.

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