“When in Vanuatu is a compassionate and moving portrayal of a trailing spouse that challenges the notion of an idyllic and carefree married life abroad, and proves that paradise lies in the healing ties that bind us together.”—Jocelyn Eikenburg, editor with China Daily, writer, and popular expat blogger

“Chen’s novel is set in the Philippines and in beautiful Vanuatu, the tropical island where James Michener wrote his classic Tales of the South Pacific. Think swaying palms, pristine beaches and the turquoise waters of the Pacific. I highly recommend When in Vanuatu for those who love to travel, and for those who enjoy reading stories that fascinate.”—Bo Kearns, author of Ashes in a Coconut

“A piercing insider’s view into the expat life in far-flung locations. This quiet novel exposes the pain of infertility, following Diana on a turbulent journey of personal transformation.”—Jennifer J. Chow, award-winning author of The 228 Legacy

When Diana quit her job and followed her husband to Manila—one of the noisiest, most crowded cities in the world—she believed the move would work for both of them: Jay would finally have his dream job, and she would take time off from her accounting career to start a family.

Four years later, however, Diana’s still not pregnant. So when her fertility doctor advises her to relax, and it becomes clear that doing so in Manila is not possible, she convinces Jay to transfer to the small South Pacific nation of Vanuatu, said to be “the most relaxing place on earth.” It isn’t long, however, before she realizes that the island’s tropical beauty hides dangers and disappointments that will test her courage, her marriage, and her ability to open herself up to new possibilities.