The Invention of Exile

This sweeping debut novel follows Austin Voronkov, an immigrant and engineer whose life is dramatically affected by political upheaval, mistaken accusations, and international borders. As he and his family face separation and upheaval across Russia, Mexico, and the U.S., their hopes, fears, and resilience are tested, highlighting themes of family, loss, and the search for home. Loosely inspired by Vanessa Manko's family history, the story explores how personal and political struggles intertwine across borders and time.