"Sea of Poppies" is a historical novel set in the 1830s, just before the Opium Wars. It traces the intertwined lives of a diverse group of characters, from a raja turned convict, a widowed poppy grower, a French orphan, to a mulatto American freedman, all of whom are brought together on the Ibis, a former slave ship now used for transporting opium. The story explores the social and economic impact of the opium trade, colonialism, and the caste system, while also delving into the personal histories, relationships, and struggles of the characters.

"The Glass Palace" is a sweeping historical epic that spans over a century, tracing the tumultuous events of the British invasion of Burma and its aftermath. The story follows the life of Rajkumar, an Indian orphan, who rises from the depths of poverty to become a wealthy businessman. His journey is intricately linked with the fates of those around him, including Dolly, a maid in the royal palace, and a host of other characters whose lives intersect across the landscapes of Burma, India, and Malaya. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and the impacts of colonialism, while providing a deep insight into the historical and political complexities of the Southeast Asian region.