Ahalya Ghai is just seventeen when a tsunami rips through her Indian village. Ahalya and her sister Sita are the sole survivors of their family. Destitute, their only hope is to find refuge at a convent in Chennai, many miles away. A driver agrees to take them. But the second they get into that car they are doomed – the two sisters are sold. Ahalya doesn’t understand why any man would pay so much money for them. She will soon find out.
On the other side of the world, Washington, D.C. lawyer Thomas Clarke witnesses the kidnapping of a young girl. Struggling to cope after the death of his baby daughter and the collapse of his marriage to Priya, he takes a sabbatical from his high-pressure job and accepts a position with the Bombay branch of CASE, the Coalition Against Sexual Exploitation. He is now on a path that not only involves saving himself and his marriage, but the lives of Ahalya and Sita Ghai.
A Walk Across The Sun is about cruelty and loss. It is about family and survival. And ultimately it is about love, and the immeasurable strength of the human spirit.
**A Gripping Tale of Survival, Loss, and the Unyielding Human Spirit: Corban Addison's *A Walk Across the Sun*** Experience a powerful and emotionally resonant journey with Corban Addison's *A Walk Across the Sun*, a heart-wrenching yet ultimately hopeful story that explores the devastating realities of human trafficking and the enduring power of love and resilience. This meticulously researched and compellingly written novel will stay with you long after you turn the final page. The story unfolds across continents, weaving together the lives of two protagonists whose paths become inextricably linked by tragedy and injustice. In India, seventeen-year-old Ahalya Ghai and her sister Sita are orphaned by a catastrophic tsunami, their lives irrevocably shattered. Seeking refuge, they embark on a treacherous journey that leads them into the clutches of human traffickers, their innocence stolen and their futures uncertain. Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., lawyer Thomas Clarke is grappling with his own personal tragedy. Devastated by the loss of his baby daughter and the ensuing breakdown of his marriage to Priya, Thomas seeks solace and purpose by joining the Bombay branch of CASE, the Coalition Against Sexual Exploitation. This decision propels him into a world of unimaginable cruelty and despair, forcing him to confront the darkest corners of humanity. As Thomas delves deeper into the fight against human trafficking, he becomes increasingly consumed by the plight of Ahalya and Sita. Driven by a desperate need to redeem himself and find meaning in his life, he embarks on a relentless quest to rescue them from their captors, facing formidable obstacles and risking everything in the process. *A Walk Across the Sun* is more than just a thriller; it is a deeply moving exploration of the human condition. Addison masterfully portrays the devastating impact of human trafficking on its victims, exposing the brutal realities of exploitation and the profound trauma it inflicts. Yet, amidst the darkness, he also illuminates the unwavering strength of the human spirit, showcasing the resilience, courage, and enduring hope that can emerge even in the face of unimaginable adversity. The novel's strength lies not only in its gripping plot but also in its richly drawn characters. Ahalya's resilience and determination to protect her sister, Sita, are truly inspiring, while Thomas's journey of self-discovery and redemption is both poignant and relatable. The supporting characters, both victims and perpetrators, are equally compelling, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Addison's meticulous research is evident throughout the book, lending authenticity and credibility to the story. He skillfully portrays the cultural nuances of India and the complexities of the global fight against human trafficking, raising awareness about this important issue and challenging readers to confront their own complicity. This First Edition Hardcover of *A Walk Across the Sun* from Quercus is a powerful and unforgettable read that will stay with you long after you finish it. It's a testament to the enduring power of hope and the resilience of the human spirit, a story that reminds us of our shared humanity and the importance of fighting for justice and compassion in a world that desperately needs it. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and challenged by this extraordinary novel. A compelling purchase for readers of literary fiction with a social conscience and an appreciation for stories of courage and survival.