Far From Worry

Far From Worry

by Asuka Li.

Preface

This tale follows 3 generations (4 if you count an adorable 6 year old whose story is yet to be told) of women. It's beginnings are in 1930's Siam and culminates in 2008 Thailand, via a strife-torn 1970's Cambodia. In addition to the women, there are males who, in varying degrees, also contribute deeds of valour and deceit. However, it could be said that the real hero of the saga is not a human, but a town. Most of the events are based in Hua Hin, a historic place of natural beauty with a fabulous climate and where I have been fortunate enough to be able to call home for over 20 years.

This is a work of fiction set upon a background of fact. None of the characters are real, but many of the events happened, although a number of the more specific events have been 'elaborated' for effect. To clarify to what extent I have elaborated these events, at the end of the book there is an 'Afterword' section. The purpose of this is make sure no misunderstandings occur and also to provide further avenues, for those who are interested in the historical details, to pursue. Within the text of the chapters, I have included a few maps to give a sense of context, they are not to scale and some of the places, like the characters, are fictious. But also like the characters, they are set in real locations, so, for example, the 'Blue Parrot' bar does not, and never has, existed but Soi Selakam where is is situated, does.

The tale is focused on Asians, leading Asian lifestyles and living in a changing Asia but there are a few important characters from the 'West'. These 'farangs' play critical roles, but they are not the life blood of this story and, just as in the real Hua Hin, they bring a lot to the table - but the table is Thai. For those of you who have never visited, then I hope this journey will prompt you to, Hua Hin is a wonderful place, as well as the climate, and the food, and the beaches, and the people it is Far From Worry.