This story is set in the small and largely undeveloped town of Keluang in the state of Johore in the former British colony of Malaya. It tells how a brave young girl, Kah Har, faces the many challenges of her early life, being brought up by two women unrelated to her. Originating from the province of Fujian, China, her lack of an education and a secure means of livelihood do not prevent her from embracing the dream of equal opportunity for her children to gain a respectable place in society. Many a time, in extremely adverse circumstances when resources are stretched thin, she holds onto her goal, undaunted. She turns a blind eye to the contemptuous stares of her neighbours, ignores the condescending air of those she has served, and swallows the insults of her closest relatives, undeterred by the hurt and pain she suffers quietly in order that her children will lead a better life, despite all the challenges that stand in the way. Against the Odds: The Iron Lady of Keluang Town succeeds admirably! Xie Mei Lin Ameline graduated from the National University of Singapore with a degree in English. Her love for biographies and historical novels contributed to her newfound passion for writing. Her personal experience of country life and her keen interest in observing people and their circumstances, lifestyle, beliefs, and practices have enabled her to vividly portray life in a typical village and small town setting during colonial and post-colonial times in her first book, Against the Odds: The Iron Lady of Keluang Town. Publisher's website: http: //sbprabooks.com/XieMeiLinAmeline