Sixteen‑year‑old Nalia knows nothing other than the life handed to her by the vice‑ridden Avakian House, run by her powerful father, Mica Avakian. Though he keeps her safe, a darkness reveals itself to her, and she flees, terrified, beyond Mica's umbrella. Her actions fuel a heated pursuit from Nanyuki to Nairobi.

Seventeen‑year‑old Kyura’s demons have never been louder. The death of his Kenyan mother turned his Japanese father into a recluse, leaving Kyura’s fate to an unforgiving world. He finds Nalia and takes her to a generous expert American family. The Smiths’ loss of their Kenyan adopted daughter seeds empathy for Nalia: she also has their late daughter’s eyes.

Family, change, vice and indulgence are catalysts in the chase for freedom, the past a relentless foe. Choices have to be made: impending doom or inviolable sanctity. Nalia’s resolve is a thrilling expat exploration of the darker edges of life in Kenya.