Set in California during WWII, The Properties of Thirst tells an epic love story against a backdrop of hardship. Rocky Rhodes battles the Los Angeles Water Department draining his ranch’s aquifers, where he raised his twins and mourns his late wife. As the U.S. builds an internment camp in Owens Valley for Japanese Americans, the camp's Jewish director becomes intrigued by the Rhodes family, especially the young Sunny. This novel weaves a tale of love for family and land, reflecting on resilience and enduring bonds.