Son of the Gods

The son of a wealthy Chinese merchant who can pass as white. He studies at a prestigious university, is tolerated in white circles due to his wealth, and later embraces his Chinese heritage after tragedy strikes. He ruthlessly runs his father’s business empire, resisting white creditors and redefining his identity through power and resolve.

Sam’s father, a wealthy Chinese merchant who recognizes Sam's talents and pushes him toward a brighter future. He remains a guiding but stern patriarch who values family loyalty and control. His death marks a pivot point that deepens Sam’s resolve to honor his heritage.

Spoiled daughter whose heart aligns with Sam, despite her father’s racism. She lashes Sam in public, later regrets it, and becomes entangled in a social whirl that mirrors the destructive clash between privilege and prejudice. Her illness and near-death further complicate their reunion.

A novelist who employs Sam for his knowledge of Chinese language and culture, illustrating Sam’s shifting career path from student to professional with a shadowy literary circle backdrop.

Sam’s childhood white friend who becomes a secretary to Lee Ying. Her loyalty to Sam’s family connects personal kindness with the arc of Sam’s life, providing emotional anchor amid upheaval.

Allana’s father, a racist, indulgent patriarch who embodies the social pressure of maintaining status. His approval or disapproval strongly shapes Allana’s choices and the couple’s fate.

A San Francisco policeman with a family connection to Sam’s circle; his practical decisions about adoption reveal themes of belonging and mistaken assumptions about identity.