Anything Lisa See writes is worth reading. The Red Princes books (Flower Net, The Interior and Dragon Bones) were her first fiction works, and they have stood the test of time. If you want a clear-eyed look at modern China as it moves—economically and culturally—from collectivism to capitalism, these books are an excellent guide. The main characters, Liu Hulan and David Stark, are an intriguing modern couple, struggling to be together against Chinese and US cultural and political tides, and struggling personally when they are together and dealing with the hardships of life from their very different perspectives. The mysteries in each book are carefully drawn and believable, and the tensions and intrigues involved in solving them will pull you along. The Red Princess trilogy will stay with you long after you read it.