Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers

Tilbert “Tilly” Wong is Vera’s adult son, a minor character who undergoes a significant change. A successful lawyer, Tilly resists his mother’s interference, despite being raised on both Chinese traditions and American expectations. In setting boundaries, he pushes his mother away for better and for worse. Still, he loves his mother, and when he suspects she is in danger, he advises her to keep to herself, sell her shop, and live near him—even if he says so reluctantly. Tilly’s suggestions are expressions of love that fail to take Vera’s needs and wants into account. Only when she becomes ill does he establish a mother-son relationship that is both independent and filial. Ironically, seeing her at the hospital with her friends reassures him that she can take care of herself. At the same time, Vera’s “redistribution” of love creates space in their relationship, so Tilly doesn’t have to push her away to maintain boundaries.

One of Vera’s suspects-turned-friends, Julia Chen is the wife of the murdered Marshall, mother to Emma, and daughter figure to Vera. In traditional Chinese families, daughters in particular are expected to care for their aging parents. Likewise, Vera is taken in by Julia; in turn, Vera feeds her and Emma, teaches Emma various skills, and restores Julia’s confidence by encouraging her to take up photography—this passion having eroded after years of living with the toxic Marshall. The novel ends with Julia pursuing photography as a career and reconciling with friend-turned-brother-in-law Oliver.

One of Vera’s suspects-turned-friends, Oliver Chen sees himself as a pale imitation of his twin brother, Marshall. However, he is a caring scapegoat, while Marshall preys on others. Oliver had a crush on his sister-in-law, Julia, when they were in high school but later reveals that he has since moved on. His novel-in-progress is more an expression of anger against Marshall than obsession over Julia. Thus, the novel ends with him and Julia reconciling as friends.

One of Vera’s suspects-turned-friends, Riki Herwanto became involved with Marshall through designing software for his scalping scheme. He is devoted to his younger brother, Adi, the latter’s need for money being what led him to Marshall in the first place. Vera matches him and Sana early on, and the pair pursue a relationship after admitting to their respective faults.

One of Vera’s suspects-turned-friends, Sana Singh became involved with Marshall through selling her art to him. While she loves her mother, Priya, she most benefits from Vera’s parenting—which combines teaching and emotional support. By drawing in sand, she regains her confidence and even paints a mural for Vera’s shop. After Vera matches Sana and Riki, the two eventually pursue a relationship.