The story-line of The Piano Teacher may seem too familiar. It sounds like a cross between The Painted Veil (young, naive English woman marries for convenience and an escape to the Far East and then starts affair that can only end badly) and at least 50% of the World War II novels I've read (secrets and betrayals, even the heroes have to make questionable sacrifices, lovers are torn apart). But don’t let this turn you away from a wonderful book full of unique characters and great writing. The setting - Hong Kong during World War II and then in the early 50s - is simply fascinating. I highly recommend this debut novel (a great book club option as well). ~Lillian