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Breaking Barriers in Feudal Japan: “Asayi” Chronicles an Autistic Teen’s Brave Quest for Empowerment

Award-winning author Sharon Curcio proudly announces the release of her latest novella, “Asayi: An Autistic Teen’s Journey to Topple a Shogun in Medieval Japan.” This compelling narrative not only offers a vivid portrayal of life in feudal Japan but also delves deep into themes of identity, resilience, and justice through the eyes of its extraordinary protagonist, Asayi. 

Asayi tells the story of a young woman born into an era where perfection is obsessively sought, and those deemed “imperfect” are brutally marginalized. Asayi, who cannot speak, faces this harsh reality with remarkable patience and bravery. Despite the societal expectations and the rigid confines of her gender and condition, Asayi’s journey is one of resilience. Through her unyielding determination, she learns to navigate the treacherous waters of the Shogun’s court, ultimately finding her voice in the most unexpected way. In a glowing review, Literary Titan describes Asayi as “a compelling narrative that immerses  readers into the tumultuous life of Asayi, an autistic young woman navigating the perilous  landscape of medieval Japan.” The review continues, “Asayi’s journey transcends mere survival;  it is about discovering her tribe and finding love amidst chaos.” The novella’s rich portrayal of  political intrigue, combined with Asayi’s deeply personal battles, offers a story that resonates with  contemporary issues of identity, resilience, and justice. 

Curcio’s masterful storytelling not only brings to life the visceral reality of political unrest and  social upheaval in medieval Japan but also highlights the strength and resilience of an underdog  who defies the odds. Each character is vividly drawn, contributing to a narrative that is both  historically authentic and emotionally profound. 

Asayi is a story of empowerment, where the underdogs ultimately prevail. It is a tale that will  resonate with readers who appreciate historical fiction enriched with emotional and cultural depth. 

Discover more about Asayi’s extraordinary journey and explore Sharon Curcio’s other works. Visit  the author’s website, sharon-curcio.com, for insights, book details, and updates on future projects. 

Don’t miss out on Asayi’s captivating journey! Get your copy today on Kindle, audiobook, or in  paperback on Amazon. Dive into this unforgettable tale of resilience and empowerment in  medieval Japan. 

About the Book 

In a world where silence is often mistaken for weakness, one young woman must navigate the  treacherous landscape of feudal Japan, where perfection is the ultimate currency and imperfection  can be deadly. Born into a society that shuns those who are different, she cannot speak, but her  spirit refuses to be silenced. With each step, she faces brutal challenges, an arranged marriage, the  ruthless scrutiny of the court, and the relentless pursuit of those who seek to control her fate. 

But beneath her quiet exterior lies a fierce determination and an uncanny ability to adapt, learn,  and survive. As the shadows of political intrigue and societal unrest loom large, she finds strength  within herself, in the spirit of her late mother, and in the bonds she forms with those who see  beyond her silence. Amid the chaos, she discovers not just her voice but a path to justice that no  one expects. Her journey is not just one of survival but of empowerment, where the underdog rises  and the silenced are finally heard. 

About the Author 

Sharon Curcio is an accomplished author with a diverse and distinguished career that spans  marketing, education, and military intelligence. She holds a B.A. in Humanities from Carnegie Mellon University and an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis. Sharon’s professional  journey began in the corporate world, where she worked in marketing for major corporations in  the New York area, including a coveted position as a copywriter for the prestigious Madison  Avenue ad agency Benton & Bowles. 

Transitioning into academia, Sharon taught at Florida International University and the University  of Miami, where she earned her Florida Teaching Credential. She later became a high school  English teacher, enriching the lives of her students with her passion for literature. Simultaneously,  Sharon served as an Intelligence Analyst in the U.S. Army Reserve, a role that took her to  Guantanamo Bay in 2003-2004 for active-duty intelligence analysis. She retired from the USAR  as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 in 2012 and from teaching in 2018. 

In retirement, Sharon has channeled her rich life experiences into writing, producing five  screenplays, published poetry, and the libretto for the oratorio “Contemplating Fire,” which  premiered onstage in Michigan in 2022. Sharon currently resides in California, where she  continues to write and inspire others with her compelling storytelling and dedication to the craft. 

Contact Information 

Name: Sharon Curcio 

Email: sharon.curcio@ca.rr.com 

Country: United States 

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