Exploring the evolution of money, this book takes readers on a historical journey from ancient currencies to modern digital forms. Through witty illustrations, it highlights the cultural, innovative, and sociopolitical aspects of money, illustrating its role as a driving force in society. The narrative delves into themes of belief, power dynamics, and the impact of war and exploitation on monetary systems. It ultimately poses intriguing questions about the future of currency in our ever-changing world.
Working Tokyo nightclubs is easy money for beautiful and troubled American Val Benson – until a wealthy client with a dark past – reluctantly gives up a map to a stash of Japanese war loot and tempts his favourite girl into a dangerous treasure hunt. But the Congressman’s daughter is not the only one interested in the Yakuza, bent cops, human traffickers, rogue CIA agents and her father are hot on her trail, snapping at her high heels. So begins the dark, epic journey of a new anti-hero of Asian Noir, a protagonist both ambiguous and courageous, and utterly unreliable. From comfort women and tomb-raiding in Japanese-occupied Burma to the murderous echoes of the Vietnam War, long forgotten crimes come roaring back to life, as Val leaves a trail of destruction and chaos in her wake. Together with her best friend, the equally unreliable nightclub hostess Suki, a British kickboxer and a washed up Australian treasure hunter, Val travels through Tokyo, Hong Kong and Bangkok to the Thai-Burmese borderlands for a dramatic showdown with her pursuers. Finding the treasure before someone less deserving does is her only hope for survival, and perhaps redemption. Gaijin Cowgirl by American writer Jame DiBiasio is a breathless page turner with a beautiful, dangerous heroine to match.
Exploring the enigmatic death of King Anawrahta, this book weaves a murder mystery with the rich history of Bagan, the cradle of Myanmar. It delves into the suspicious circumstances surrounding Anawrahta's demise, suggesting a potential assassin often overlooked due to cultural biases. The narrative unfolds through a dual journey: a chronological exploration of Bagan's kings and their intriguing tales, alongside a physical trek through ten temples, each shedding light on Anawrahta's enduring legacy and the historical context of his reign.
Set on the idyllic Thai island of Samui, the story follows Travis Mitchell, who finds himself entangled in a dangerous web of crime after encountering Mazy, a troubled yoga instructor. With a crime boss pursuing him and Mazy fleeing an abusive relationship, their escape ignites a chaotic chase involving gangsters, triads, and local authorities. As they navigate this perilous situation, both must confront their trust issues and the risks of their growing bond, questioning whether their connection is worth the escalating danger.
