The Touchstone Project

by Grace Omena

The Touchstone Project (Part 1) follows the journey of Tyler Kwan, the son of a Chinese merchant living in Japan. When China enforces its one-child policy, Tyler's life takes an unexpected turn as his wife becomes pregnant with their second child. Having no choice but to flee to the United States in search of a better future, Tyler's hopes are dashed when tragedy strikes, leaving him alone to raise his daughter, Fang, in a foreign land.

As a single father, Tyler navigates the challenges, experiencing the highs of fleeting happiness and the depths of heartbreak. Together, Tyler and Fang strive to forge a new path, uncovering the true meaning of family and hope.

The Touchstone Project (Part I) is a touching tale of strength, survival, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughter.

Grace Omena is a psychologist, with a deep passion for writing fiction and poems.

120 pages, Hardcover

Published December 9, 2024

Reviews

[kennedy Omondi Odindo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The news of a pregnancy is often met with joy; however, in Grace’s book, The Touchstone Project (Part 1) this revelation leads the family to drift further away from their homeland. They cross the sea in hopes of achieving the American Dream. While one might think the family are now out of the woods, there is still much in store for them. Tyler, now a widower, faces the challenges of caring for his daughter alone.

There is a lot to appreciate in this story. At times, you will empathize with Tyler, while at other moments, you’ll find yourself cheering him on as he searches for a soulmate Overall, you will become immersed in this man’s journey, as he truly embodies the spirit of a family man.

[Oghosa Otas-Osegbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I would be frank: Grace Omena’s book is a full-on emotional rollercoaster, the kind where you laugh, cry, and probably end up hugging it by the end. This is a story about life at its rawest, its messiest, and its most beautiful. It starts with a love story between Tyler and Samiko in their pursuit of the American Dream. Leaving Japan with hope in their eyes, they soon find themselves battling life's cruelest takedowns. Losing some, Boa sent a storm into the core of their very existence, turning off lights in the little world of Samiko. Deep, raw pain practically jumped out from the pages to your chest.

And poor Tyler was left picking up the pieces of life shattered. Where things seem not to go wrong anymore, he has to confront betrayal and financial ruin in a marriage that goes toxic in very short order. Yet even around some very bleak moments, there's often a glimmer of brightness: an amazing relationship with his daughter, Fang. Their relationship is the heart and soul of this book, showing that love really can be the lifeline when everything else feels impossible. Tyler's story is all about grit, heartbreak, and hope. He has to work night classes around, push through the grind, and give every ounce just to make Fang's life better. Their moments together were pure magic. Whether they're celebrating the tiny win or making it through the tough days, you can feel the love and their resilience on every page. And then comes Sofia, an old flame with a big heart, who shows Tyler that happiness isn’t just a memory but something you can find again. Their romance adds a layer of bittersweet joy that’s impossible not to root for.

Grace Omena’s writing is like a sensory feast. You’re not just reading; you’re there, and this is why I gave it 5 stars. Yokohama’s peaceful gardens, the salty ocean air, the noisy streets of America—it’s all so vivid you can almost touch it. The settings aren’t just places; they’re alive, echoing the highs and lows of the characters’ journeys. This book is more than a story; it’s a gut punch of emotions, a deep dive into love, loss, and the fight to keep going. Grace Omena doesn’t just write; she weaves a tapestry of feelings that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. If you’re looking for a book that’ll make you cry, smile, and maybe call your loved ones just to say, “I love you,” this is it.

[Rotimi Oluwaseun · Rating 4 out of 5]

The themes of this book hit hard. This book tackles the themes of love, identity, loss, redemption, and the immigrant experience, and the book's emotional depth is off the charts. I hope to see more of Tyler in the coming sequel. And trust me, when the sequel drops, I’ll be first in line. I recommend this book to fans of self-help: Stop wasting time. Get this book and live your life bigger and better than ever.

[CELEstial · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, this book centers around Tyler and Samiko and the way they come from Japan into America, on the basis of a better life for tomorrow. Their ill-fated odyssey is thus stricken with the tragic disappearance of a son, Boa, that took a dark turn early, right? Well, that puts Samiko in utter despair. Then there is Tyler's marriage to Aihan, who deceives him and runs off with his savings. I found this really hilarious, by the way. Despite these obstacles, Tyler loves Fang, his daughter, wholeheartedly. He then reunites with Sofia, a kind hearted woman from his past, who helps him recover and find love all over again. Happy ending? Well, read the book to find out.

I would like to single out one unforgettable character, and that is Lynx. First of all, her charm and energy are what draw Tyler in, but as the story unfolds, you see there is so much more to her. Her relationship with Tyler was really strong from the start; they shared interests and seemed to really connect. But things got messy when Lynx's hidden bisexuality and infidelity were brought to light. I trust you didn't see that coming, did you? The moment he catches her with two other women is a real gut punch; it is a turning point in which his trust is then broken, showing how convoluted Lynx really is. I could not imagine myself in that position, honest to God.

What I mostly like about it is that Lynx is not just some kind of "bad guy" or "bad girl" within the story; she's layered and flawed, really very human. Through her, the book really begins to dig deeply into the mess and randomness lying at the heart of relationships and the huge importance of honesty and self awareness. The complexities of Lynx make this tale so very realistic that it will take a lot for the ideas swimming in my mind after finishing it to dissipate. Seriously, it is such an awesome read and one you really would not regret. I certainly did not. 5 stars for sure; Grace Omen is just too good.

[Ralphseyi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace Omena's The Touchstone Project Part I thrusts you right into the vortex that constitutes the life of Tyler and Samiko, a couple daring to dream big by leaving Japan for America, escaping the grip of China's strict one-child policy. But life does not pull its punches. Life just hits them with tragedy when they lose their son, Boa, sending Samiko shattered and Tyler scrambling to keep it all together. Things start going downhill again when Tyler marries Aihan, who proves to be the ultimate villain, swiping his hard-earned savings and leaving him high and dry.

Despite the chaos, there is a silver lining: Tyler's relationship with his daughter, Fang, is pure magic. Through all the heartbreak, Tyler finds his way back to love with Sofia, a kind soul from his past who brings him a sense of peace he did not know he could have again. This is a story of heart, resilience, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds. It is one of falling, getting back up, and finding hope in the most unexpected of places.

Now, let us talk about Airi, Fang's no nonsense grandmother. She is solid as the family rock, a perceptive and sharp-eyed old woman who could smell something from afar, just like Aihan, whom she distrusted right from day one. Lo and behold, he proves to be quite the scoundrel as he would seem to be to her. Airi advises, loves, grounds, or otherwise keeps Tyler and Fang in good hands; thus, she remains not only the glue that's holding her but also the backbone of her family. Mixed with tough love and unwavering support, she is one to root for till the end.

One thing that makes this book even more special is Grace Omena's knack for lacing real world history and culture within the plot. From the harsh realities of the one-child policy to even minute details in both Japanese and Chinese cultures, she gets it right. A storyteller does not waste an obvious minute of her homework, leaving it to be as real a story as it is truly deeply personal, which is why I gave it 5 stars. You do not merely read about these characters; you come to know them, to understand their struggles and the world they come from. Fans of stories as emotionally rich as they are in cultural depth will never set The Touchstone Project: Part I down.

[Maria Rossi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where to begin with The Touchstone Project, Part I, by Grace Omena? It is just that sort of emotional rollercoaster of a read—just like a rollercoaster of love, heartbreak, and hope. It's the sort of story that reaches in and clutches your heartstrings before giving them a great joggle, leaving you lying and staring up at the ceiling processing your feelings. Seriously, I couldn't put it down.
Behind it is the heartbreaking drama about a very natural, vividly realistic pair, Tyler and Samiko, a couple about whom you nearly feel that you're taking up the cruelties of life alongside them. The two leave Japan behind, chasing a dream for a better life in America—to find their hopes dashed as unimaginable tragedy strikes mid-journey: their baby, Boa, dies along the way. Omena doesn't avoid the pain here; rather, Samiko's angst is gut-wrenching, her cries echoing from the page right into one's soul. If this doesn't have a person shedding tears, well, I question their humanity.
What hit me, though, was really the relentless strength of Samiko. From her introspective times in a quiet garden in Yokohama to fierce, intense love as a mother, she feels like such an alive and layered character on her most down days. She's that kind of soul you would root for instantly, and she's definitely a woman who inspires you to feel so much survival, even on life's worst days.
Tyler's story is just as appealing, but man, does he have it bad! From dealing with Boa's loss to living through a toxic marriage with the scheming Aihan, Tyler's life seems like one curveball after another. Yet, through all of it, he finds love and hope again with his daughter, Fang, and later Sofia, whose warmth feels like a balm on his weary heart. It's like watching a phoenix rise from the ashes as Tyler rebuilds his life; truly an inspiration.
Grace Omena deserves a standing ovation for her storytelling chops. Her characters leap off the page, flawed and full of life, their emotions raw and relatable. She captures the messy beauty of human relationships, from family bonds to the bittersweet complexities of love. Her writing is so vivid and so heartfelt that you’ll find yourself completely immersed in Tyler and Samiko’s world.
The Bottom Line: The Touchstone Project is an emotional powerhouse that left me in absolute awe. It's one of those stories about the incredible human spirit that will keep you going, even beyond heartbreak, to love once more and to surge ahead when everything seems so uphill. If you want to read a book that tugs at your heartstrings and reminds you just how beautiful resilience is, then this is it. Easy 5 stars here.

[NathanielReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a bittersweet tale that takes you on a journey across oceans and through some of the deepest corners of the human soul. At its heart, it is the story of Tyler and Samiko, who leave behind everything they know in Japan to escape the crushing weight of China’s restrictive policies, chasing a dream of freedom in America. But that dream does not come easy.

Tragedy strikes when they lose their son, Boa, a loss that plunges Samiko into despair. And just when it seems like Tyler’s life can not get any harder, he finds himself betrayed in a loveless marriage to Aihan, who disappears with his savings. Through it all, Tyler’s unshakable love for his daughter, Fang, becomes his anchor, his reason to keep going.

There is a spark of hope when Tyler reconnects with Sofia, an old flame, who helps him find healing and love again. Omena’s storytelling masterfully braids themes of loss, cultural identity, and the raw power of family bonds into a narrative that reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit. Then there is Fang, what a character. She's that girl you just want to root for with your heart, growing up under Tyler's wings, full of compassion and grit, chasing her dream to be a pediatrician.

Fang is not working hard; she is thriving, building connections with her patients and earning admiration left and right. But life threw a curveball, and she had to live with the most devastating news: the sudden death of Tyler. And it is herein that one finds Fang's strength. She not only survived but started to live for her father's memory with all the taught kindness, determination, and love.

Grace Omena’s writing has a way of sticking with you. The Touchstone Project (Part I) does not just tell a story; it makes you think. It nudges you to reflect on identity, cultural roots, and what it really means to belong. The themes are deep, but they are never heavy handed. They are woven into the lives of characters so real and relatable that you feel their joys and heartbreaks like your own, which is why I gave it a rating of 5 stars. This book is as much about finding hope after loss as it is about finding yourself and it does all this with an honesty and warmth that will leave you wanting more.

[IsrealWinsEVERYTIME · Rating 5 out of 5]

"As they watched the sun set over the endless blue expanse of the ocean, Tyler knew that he had taken the first step towards a new life. A life filled with hope, opportunity, and the promise of a future for their young family. The journey ahead would be difficult, but he was determined to make it work. For himself, his wife, and his children, and for the future that awaited them in America. Only fate was not that kind."

Already at the first page I watched how Omena could make a standstill attention. Her narrative is full, rich in emotional experience, and she manages to bring me into Tyler and Samiko’s lives in a rather smooth way. Looking at the aspect of human emotion, Omena does a rather good job presenting all that with a simplicity yet depth that is absent in most mangas. Especially, her description of mourning and recovery is touching, allowing readers to feel the pervasive message about the redemptive features of love and memories.

This is a story of Tyler, a Chinese trader brought up in Japan, and his Japanese wife, Samiko. They set off for America to improve their quality of life due to the Chinese government’s one-child policy, which had recently begun to show its effects on their family with a newcomer on the way. The couple has several adversities that are experienced during the journey to America; they lose their son, Boa, and are about to face life's harsh realities.

The quality of the book is superb, and the editing is done to the highest standards. While the narrative is superb, these elements do not take away from the story. There are no pullers down that can reduce one's experience with Tyler's story. In my opinion, it deserves five stars. If you do nothing more than read the story, you are going to really love it.

[Max · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was the couples in the book by Grace Omena that made it so engrossing and emotional for me. And then the two lovers, Tyler and Samiko, were really trying to be bold in the face of the thrown challenges by life. The scene opened in Yokohama, Japan, to begin with very vivid descriptions about the surroundings with their deep bond between them. They get married against the will of their families and start a family, naming their son Boa after Tyler's father.And then the tragedy strikes in the form of moving to China according to the wish of his father. And en route, Boa, their young son, mysteriously dies due to some sickness, and that leaves Samiko shattered. The couple is grief-stricken, and literally, the journey to America is marred by the fall of a dear one. Unable to cope with the loss, her health declines and results in her death.

Now a single parent, Tyler raises their daughter, Fang, with the help of Samiko's mother, Airi. Through his life, he learned the strength of love and loss. He finds consolation in his daughter and his work in the process. Rich with emotional insight, the narrative tugs at the heart of a reader when Tyler rebuilds his life.

I loved this book. The author did such a great job depicting the emotions of the characters, and the plot was smooth. The descriptions were vivid, deep in emotions. I give this book a perfect five out of five stars and have no dislikes whatsoever.

I will recommend this novel to a mature audience because it deals with loss and grief. The story has a lot of emotional depth, especially the exploration of the family bond; thus, the novel is worthwhile for those readers who like a narrative full of emotions.

[Festus Akpomalue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace Omena's "The Touchstone Project" is a book that examines sorrow, healing, and the power of connection through art. The Touchstone Project follows the emotional journey of Dr. Fang Kwan, a pediatrician grappling with the recent loss of her father, Tyler. In her mourning journey, she expresses her feelings by painting stones, resulting in a project that unexpectedly provides solace and hope to her patients. The stones she paints are more than just items; they are talismans of healing, representing love, recollection, and tenacity.

The narrative effectively captures the raw emotions tied to loss and the different ways individuals cope. Fang’s journey showcases how creativity can serve as a therapeutic tool in processing grief.
Grace Omena's writing is expressive and contemplative, skillfully bringing emotions to life with vivid imagery and meaningful conversation. The pacing allows for extensive character development, making the reader emotionally engaged in Fang's rehabilitation process. The use of art and its emotional relevance gives depth to the story.

Overall, "The Touchstone Project" is a wonderfully produced story that resonates with anybody who has experienced loss or is looking for healing in their own lives. It emphasizes the value of love, memories, and artistic expression, making for a moving and uplifting book. In conclusion, if you're searching for a moving narrative about bereavement and the surprising ways we recover, "The Touchstone Project" is well worth your time. It reminds us that even in our worst circumstances, there is room for beauty, connection, and hope.

[Eunice · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Touchstone Project (Part I) is Grace Omena’s work of the art that touches on love and loss as well as perseverance. This takes readers through continents in the life of Tyler, a Chinese merchant with a Japanese wife, Samiko. They experience cultural and family conflict and personal loss. Tyler is a standout character who is torn between the traditions of his people and affection to Samiko. It is a moving melodrama about a man who loses his son, Boa, and who gradually witnesses the collapse of his own life.

Samiko is presented very carefully as a physically strong woman but at the same time a vulnerable woman. What makes her remain memorable with the characterization bent on portraying grief and despair is the fact that all these are portrayed naturally. Also the author does a good job in depicting Samiko’s feelings so the reader gets the sense of her suffering.Supporting characters like, Airi, the mother in law of Tyler, and Fang, the daughter of Tyler are well developed to support the plot.

A lot of brilliant description and insights is in Grace Omena’s narrative and the details of the environment and the characters’ feelings are described with nearly graphic detail. They are punctuated with considerable attention to detail and able to maintain a steady rhythm of reflection and action and that makes this book interesting. I give this book 5 stars because it gives you a heartwarming and inspiring experience that lingers even after reading it.

[Rahman Ibrahim · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Touchstone Project by Grace Omena begins with the lives of Samiko and Tyler, who fall in love in spite of the cultural difference. Living under the Chinese one-child policy, they must make a decision of their lifetime to fight for the future of their new family, love, and hope.

The narrative of the story is well-articulated, mostly simple to comprehend the story because there is the use of good illustration of the feelings and environment. While reading, I don't have to guess what is happening or become disoriented; the author maintains a clear writing style.

The author presents everything in a simple and very moving way, so it’s not difficult to feel the characters and their experience.

The pacing is also smooth because, it does provide readers with enough time to feel a lot of the emotional impact behind a scene.

The novel is as well ideal for anyone who could use motivation in difficult times to navigate situations. It will also be appreciated by readers who like family dramas that are filled with emotions and self-improvement.

In all, I actually had an interesting moment reading The Touchstone Project. I therefore recommend giving it a read because it is a reminder of how love, resilience, and determination can help the reader overcome life’s hardest moments. Also an interesting and unforgettable read that will leave readers feeling inspired.

[Mary K · Rating 5 out of 5]

When reading Grace Omena’s “The Touchstone Project (Part I),” I got introduced to the heart-wrenching themes of love and loss and the struggle to overcome. Often, it does not matter how big dreams can be fought against, but Tyler and Samiko take their leap from Japan to America for a better future. Their voyage is depicted perfectly by Omena, and a tough subject of family, culture, and the nature of human beings is portrayed in their story.

The first episode of the novel describes the thematics of their leaving, depicting the pairing of the two main characters; the story is intense, and the experience of the couple, the pains, and the achievements is what to look forward to as they build their future in an unfamiliar territory.The aspect that can be considered as extraordinary in this novel is that it contained themes of hope and loss in true catastrophe; the reader gets to feel with Tyler and Samiko all of human sorrow and suffering. However, there is always a little hope somewhere in the story, and this fact serves as an assertion.

This part I series is compelling and emotional, and opens me to a world that is guided by love and family.“The Touchstone Project (Part I)” is a book that any reader who ever lost a battle and is hoping for a new beginning will ever want to read. I give a 5-star rating because I also picked personal lessons about being brave and kind.

[victorysam cyprain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a love story of a Japanese family that migrates to America. I expected a great deal of character development and nuance around these themes for the story: The story is about Tyler, his wife Samiko, and their kid Boa, who move from Japan to America. Tyler is a dreamer, and his goal is to return to his band and fulfill his father's wishes. It takes many years in the story to view Tyler’s and his family’s successes and failures in creating the new life. The characters are painted in every detail, and many aspects of one’s personality and motives are explained. Tyler is an ambitious and a caring father, and the motivation of a fighter that he is cannot be doubted.

My favorite character is Samiko because despite her quiet personality, she displays immense character strength and loyalty to her family regardless of Tyler’s demons. This is a rather tragic story of her. This is a compelling tale of family, self-discovery, and immigration.

This work is beyond merit because of the emotions eliciting passion and compelling characters, which are all felt in this book. It would easily garner four stars out of five and is of course recommended for readers who always want their stories teeming with character developments and thematic overtones.

[JONATHAN ALEMEDE · Rating 5 out of 5]

 Tyler and Samiko are a couple who moved to America from Japan in search of a better life. Tyler is a Chinese merchant, while Samiko is Japanese. written by Grace Omena “The Touchstone Project (Part I)” is a story full of love, pain, and suffering, especially with the loss of their son, Boa, while still fighting for their dreams. These losses matter to them and to their relationship greatly.

The themes passed across cultures, relationships (especially within families), and self-empowerment. As for the specificity of cultural identity, the instances of Tyler and Samiko left a very strong impression on me. And how much of a struggle it can be to fit in after moving to a new country. The book also contains little tidbits that I personally was not familiar with, such as the one-child policy in China. These details assisted me in grasping the larger worldview of the characters and the kind of life they lead as well as their choices.

I would rate “The Touchstone Project (Part I)” as 5 stars. The story is interesting and tells a lot about cultural issues. Biographical narratives and historical backing allow Grace Omena to make the book engaging and provocative. If you have concern for cultural stories and self-development, this book is for you.

[Aneley Sánchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hard but hopeful!

I knew from the first couple of pages that this would be a difficult story to read but I did not imagine how much. It explores themes of tragedy, despair, hope, resilience, and the enduring strength of love and family. The narrative revolves around a family grappling with the harsh realities of China's one-child policy and their subsequent journey to the United States, where a devastating tragedy forces a father to raise his daughter alone in a foreign land.
The writing style is captivating and immersive, allowing the reader to empathize with the characters and experience their emotions deeply. The story is filled with pain, sadness, and grief but also radiates hope, perseverance, and personal growth, creating a beautifully balanced narrative. This is a book to approach with time and a reflective mindset, as its powerful themes invite deep thought. The brief chapters make it accessible despite its heavy subject matter.
It’s a highly recommended read for those who enjoy complex dramas and tragic stories with a meaningful and hopeful resolution. This was my first experience with the author’s work, and her ability to connect with the reader and convey profound emotions ensures it won’t be my last.

[Eseosa Abizu · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Touchstone Project (Part I),” a heart-wrenching story written by Grace Omena, is all about love and strength. This book draws you into the love and romance of Tyler and Samiko and the transformative power of the ups and downs of cultural shifts.

What was particularly fascinating about this book is that it wasn't what I expected at all. Looking at the cover, I thought I was about to go in for a teacher-to-student hero story, but I'm left with so much satisfaction reading a whole new perspective about the true love and practical, unyielding journey of Tyler and Samiko, who did not ever think of just submitting to fate.

The author depicts the nature of their affection and commitment to each other very well, where both are strong with common goals supporting each other. “The Touchstone Project (Part I)” made me a little emotional. The story really hit me on how expansive love is and how people are so incredibly strong. It is a book that captivates one in so many ways, providing both excitement and much food for thought. I would definitely recommend it to everyone who is interested in nice stories about family and dreams that seemed to be challenged by society. I give a rating of 5 out of 5 stars for this book and can't wait to read Book II.

[L Becerra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great and inspiring book!

The interplay between realism and fantasy through the touchstone is seamlessly executed, making the story both intriguing and immersive. The character development is remarkable and one of the standout aspects of the book. The characters start off reserved and enigmatic, but as the story unfolds, they confront ancestral dilemmas that push them to reflect, reconcile with their past, and make significant decisions to reshape their futures. Witnessing their transformation—gaining self-confidence and discovering their purpose—was a deeply satisfying experience.
The introspective and poetic writing style adds another layer of depth, inviting the reader to reflect on their own life while following the characters’ journeys. It’s a rare and beautiful experience to feel so connected to the narrative and to grow alongside the characters.
This book is a perfect choice for readers who appreciate stories blending realism with fantasy and for those who enjoy thought-provoking books that inspire personal growth. It’s a richly rewarding experience that will more than meet your expectations. Highly recommended!

[Yolanda Gomez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a deeply moving and heartfelt story that delves into the complexities of human emotions with remarkable insight, capturing grief, pain, hope, and love in a way that feels raw and authentic. The portrayal of the protagonist’s challenges as a single father navigating a new country is particularly compelling. His vulnerabilities and unwavering determination are portrayed with such depth that it’s impossible not to empathize with him. The daughter, too, is a beautifully written character whose relationship with her father is the emotional cornerstone of the story.
Omena’s writing is poetic and deeply evocative, drawing you into the characters’ inner worlds. The author’s background in psychology adds layers of nuance, offering a profound understanding of how people process loss, adapt to change, and discover strength in the face of adversity.
This book serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing and understanding our emotions. It’s an emotional and personal journey that is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, making it an absolute must-read for anyone who values stories that celebrate the resilience of the human spirit.

[Akinfolarin Ayomide · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Touchstone Project" by Grace Omena is a compelling narrative that follows the life of Tyler Kwan, a Chinese merchant living in Japan. When China enforces its one-child policy, Tyler's life is thrown into turmoil as his wife becomes pregnant with their second child. Fearing the repercussions, Tyler decides to flee to the United States with his wife and their daughter, Fang.

Tragedy strikes during their journey when Tyler's wife passes away, leaving him to navigate the challenges of raising Fang alone in a foreign country. As a single father, Tyler faces numerous obstacles but finds solace in the bond he shares with Fang. Together, they strive to build a new life, discovering the true meaning of family and hope.

The story beautifully captures Tyler's resilience and Fang's growth as they navigate the highs and lows of life. The novel explores themes of strength, survival, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughter. Grace Omena's writing is heartfelt and evocative, offering readers a touching exploration of human connection and the power of love and perseverance.

[Gladys Nakote · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Touchstone Project, written by Grace Omena, follows the devoted couple, Samiko and Tyler, who have to overcome the devastating moments in their lives. Their story starts in Japan and goes from the Yokohama gardens to the journey at sea in search of a better life in America. They move on in life, dealing with societal norms, family pressure, and calamity. The story also portrays love, struggle, and hope.

The novel is inspiring and makes one contemplate so many factors in history in addition to people’s problems in their lives.

The selected point of view functions well and makes the reader observe the emotions and thoughts of the characters since it enriches the described events.

The novel also consists of a simple, straightforward narrative that does not pose much difficulty in understanding. The font and layout are clean and uncluttered, with the text being easy on the eyes, which is engaging.

For the target audience, it is best for adults and teenagers who prefer to read novels full of emotions and characters’ development. It is important to have an opportunity to read stories about family, cultural identity, and coming out of the difficulties.

The author has also given the reader a novel that can be referred to at any point in time. I therefore strongly encourage anyone who wants an uplifting story to give it a read.

[Gianfranco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touching

This story is deeply soul-stirring, exploring the rawness of death and the pain of losing loved ones before you're ready to let go. At the same time, it captures the complexity and intensity of love, showing how every disappointment can shake your life, expectations, and dreams to their core.
Tyler's journey is heartbreaking, filled with pain and disappointments that feel undeserved. Yet, the narrative conveys an important message: life, while often marked by struggle and loss, also brings moments of grace and blessings. The story emphasizes the importance of gratitude and appreciating those moments, no matter how fleeting. The novel is masterfully crafted, with a seamless narrative flow, well-developed characters, and a storyline that captivates from start to finish. The timing of each event feels natural and avoids anything forced or overly dramatic, making the story feel genuine and relatable.
This book moved me deeply, more than I expected. I found myself devouring every page, connecting deeply with Tyler and his family.

[Juliana · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books!
Author Grace Omena delves into themes of love, family, death, and the process of overcoming life's hardships. The characters’ emotions are so vividly portrayed that it feels as though you are part of their family, experiencing their joys and sorrows alongside them. The depth of these emotional connections makes the story not only engaging but also profoundly moving.
From the very beginning, this book captivated me, and I found it hard to put down. It offers raw but meaningful life lessons, teaching the importance of gratitude and cherishing the people we love, even as life pushes us toward new beginnings and relationships. One particularly touching aspect is the way it explores the possibility of finding love and hope again after loss and heartbreak.
This is a beautifully written book that leaves a lasting impact. Its universal themes make it a must-read for anyone, and I highly recommend it to readers looking for a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

[Camilo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first installment in a series is truly fascinating and delivers a deeply engaging and reflective experience. The story's theme immediately captured my attention, and the narrative invites readers to connect with the events and characters on a profound level. The writing style is immersive, making it easy to become emotionally invested in the journey. Despite its brevity, the story is packed with depth, emotion, and powerful themes.
What stood out to me most was how the story evokes such a wide range of emotions while also creating a space for personal reflection. It’s a heartfelt and beautifully crafted narrative that stays with you long after you finish reading.
This book is perfect for readers who seek an emotional and moving story, as well as those who appreciate thoughtful and reflective writing. It’s a strong and impactful read, and I’m excited to see what comes next in the series. Highly recommended!

[Emily Dacho · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace Omena focuses on China's darkest age—the era of the one-child policy—and from it, she spins a powerful tale of a family caught in the dramas and tragedies of life while far away from home. Following Tyler Kwan, the Touchstone Project (Part 1) is a moving story; one begins somewhere in Japan, crosses the waters, and lands in America, and while you’re still at it, you get to know one man’s quest to make the world a better place for his daughter, a daunting task that he balances with his pursuit of love. The story ends tragically, but that's the way of life, as always, though part 2 is already out, in which the readers will get to know Fang Kwan.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Solomon Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way Grace Omena writes the story is kind of irresistible. There is a beautiful story remise and the events do not let you get bored from the beginning till the very end of the book. It also has very descriptive language that makes the emotional scenes mentally comprehendible. It was a heartwarming read, with pieces that I could relate to very much so, and that really got me. I would highly suggest this book to all fans of history, historical and love fiction, and people who in search of beautiful history stories.

[Frida · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ship’s journey from Japan to America was more than a physical voyage—it was a crossing of worlds, emotions, and identities. The vivid descriptions of the ocean, the sense of isolation, and the tension of starting anew created a powerful backdrop for the characters’ inner turmoil. This world-building element taught me that geography isn’t just a setting—it’s an echo of our own emotional landscapes. Grace omena made scenario's so real on her writings, she has the ability to paint pictures in her writings.

[Micheal John · Rating 5 out of 5]

The gradual rebuilding of Tyler’s life, both personally and professionally, was inspiring. Watching him overcome challenges to provide for Fang, create art, and find purpose again highlighted the resilience of the human spirit. It reminded me that growth isn’t linear or easy—it’s a series of small, courageous steps. His story encouraged me to believe in second chances and the quiet power of perseverance.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The spirituality woven into the story was gentle but profound. Whether through quiet moments of prayer, symbols of hope, or the simple act of painting touchstones, there was an underlying sense of connection to something greater. This thread reminded me that spirituality isn’t always loud or overt—it can be a quiet presence that helps us navigate grief, trauma, and the uncertain journey of life. This book has helped me in my healing journey so far.

[Buffet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samiko’s heartbreaking final days, where she drifted further into grief, were written with a rawness that stayed with me. Her inability to connect with Fang, her longing for Boa, and her fading spirit painted a picture of trauma that felt devastatingly real. This portrayal reminded me of the importance of recognizing signs of deep depression and the need for support systems, no matter how strong someone may seem. This is an amazing book, and I feel it should be ready by people