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Outside Appearances
In a world of curated perfection, what happens when our masks begin to crack? Outside Appearances is a poignant collection traversing Malaysia’s vibrant landscape from mid-century coconut groves to high-stakes corporate boardrooms. Liza Khan explores the chasm between projected lives and endured truths. A CEO haunted by childhood abandonment, a young man broken by a coerced lie, and a woman confronting the hidden betrayal of a second marriage. From terminal illness in paradise to the satire of status-symbol handbags, these stories interrogate the ‘festering truths;’ hidden behind peacock-green silk and pious veils. This is a mirror held to the human condition, inviting readers to discover the raw reality beneath the surface.
206 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
April 19, 2026
I just finished this book, and the author is truly gifted.
Words, to me, are the most intimate expressions of humanity, and here they are woven and wielded with such finesse and grace. I found myself savouring each one, without skimming as I so often do.
The characters rise off the page with such aliveness that each of them, and their journeys, resonate deeply.
The language that brings them to life feels like warm honey, gently settling over the heart.
The depth captured in just a few pages leaves an echo that lingers long after the story ends.
Several stories moved me to tears, because the ache and pain described feel so universal.
This is a book that stays with you, and I sincerely hope it is only the first of many more to come
Words, to me, are the most intimate expressions of humanity, and here they are woven and wielded with such finesse and grace. I found myself savouring each one, without skimming as I so often do.
The characters rise off the page with such aliveness that each of them, and their journeys, resonate deeply.
The language that brings them to life feels like warm honey, gently settling over the heart.
The depth captured in just a few pages leaves an echo that lingers long after the story ends.
Several stories moved me to tears, because the ache and pain described feel so universal.
This is a book that stays with you, and I sincerely hope it is only the first of many more to come
June 27, 2026
A collection of 16 stories mostly centered on women - their grit and perseverance; their ambitions and drives; their vendetta and vengeance. My favorites are story 12 (Berkin Beware) and story 14 (Anatomy of Stationary). Not going to lie, the stories of human trials and tribulations were vividly painted that a cloud of sadness and heavy musings were hovering over my head, until the guni Berkin sashayed in. My God, that's so hilarious. Hilarious but sobering too, which I appreciate deeply.
There's stories about men too - a misjudged guy because a girl cried foul (not cry, she just doesn't make a sound at all when it matters), a boy who was forced to become a big person oceans apart from his beloved mom, a guy who was left like habis madu sepah dibuang after a whirlwind 3 months of bliss only to find out there's another (quite a frightening) story behind it, and a boy who grew up to be a woman.
The author writes with experience, which makes the fiction feel grounded and human. She has a way with words, making the legal stuff in some of the stories easily digestible for laymen. Looking forward to more of her work!
There's stories about men too - a misjudged guy because a girl cried foul (not cry, she just doesn't make a sound at all when it matters), a boy who was forced to become a big person oceans apart from his beloved mom, a guy who was left like habis madu sepah dibuang after a whirlwind 3 months of bliss only to find out there's another (quite a frightening) story behind it, and a boy who grew up to be a woman.
The author writes with experience, which makes the fiction feel grounded and human. She has a way with words, making the legal stuff in some of the stories easily digestible for laymen. Looking forward to more of her work!
May 5, 2026
Outside Appearances by Liza Khan to be deeply moving and emotionally powerful. As I read, I could truly feel the emotions in every page.It resonates on a very personal level because the stories are rooted in real-life experiences.
What makes this book especially impactful is how it creates a strong sense of appreciation for life. It gently reminds us of the struggles many go through, often silently, and encourages a deeper empathy towards others.
The author’s willingness to pour her heart and real-life challenges into the writing is what gives the stories their authenticity. Without that honesty, the emotional depth would not have been as compelling. As a reader, it’s easy to relate
especially as women navigating societal expectations, pressures, and unspoken roles.
This book doesn’t just tell stories; it reflects realities. It validates emotions we sometimes struggle to express and gives a voice to experiences many will recognize. It’s both comforting
leaving you with a lingering sense of reflection long after you’ve finished reading.
What makes this book especially impactful is how it creates a strong sense of appreciation for life. It gently reminds us of the struggles many go through, often silently, and encourages a deeper empathy towards others.
The author’s willingness to pour her heart and real-life challenges into the writing is what gives the stories their authenticity. Without that honesty, the emotional depth would not have been as compelling. As a reader, it’s easy to relate
especially as women navigating societal expectations, pressures, and unspoken roles.
This book doesn’t just tell stories; it reflects realities. It validates emotions we sometimes struggle to express and gives a voice to experiences many will recognize. It’s both comforting
leaving you with a lingering sense of reflection long after you’ve finished reading.
June 14, 2026
An engaging collection of heartfelt stories that truly resonate with the reader. What makes this collection stand out is how every story is distinct, yet equally compelling. The characters are impressively well developed, which is no small feat in the short story format. The stories seem to come from a personal place, flow effortlessly and make for an entertaining, enjoyable read.
April 22, 2026
A riveting read-beautifully written. The stories explore complex and unconventional themes. Highly recommended.
April 29, 2026
Beautifully written, with original and heartbreaking stories. Some of them deeply reflect our childhood experiences, and the lasting effects carried into adulthood feel incredibly real.
May 20, 2026
I just finished the book and it’s really very interesting. There is a real story behind each one but you will not find it to be quite you expect.
July 27, 2026
The stories give you a lovely insight into how it feels to live different lives. A window into other peoples lives and way of living. Great book to read
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews