A review  of ‘The Shanghai Circle’ by a member of the Online Book Club on the 18th of October 2023 

5 stars out of 5

The Shanghai Circle is a narrative penned by Tony Henderson. It delves into the multifaceted Chinese city of Shanghai, a melting pot of various cultures, social strata, and foreign influences driven by commerce and tourism. Shanghai, though, paints a grim and corrupt picture, where organized crime elements, such as gangsters and triads, rule over illicit enterprises like the drug trade, nightclubs, motels, and prostitution. This environment sees affluent leaders grooming their offspring for succession while impoverished labourers face starvation and despair. However, the tranquillity of the city is disrupted when it falls under the shadow of Japanese aggression, leading to widespread confusion and the outbreak of war. This, in turn, forces many to flee to other cities in search of safety and survival.

In the realm of literary adventure, where words waltz to form a compelling tale, this book stands as a testament to the art of storytelling. Each chapter unfolds with a promise, leaving the reader on the edge of anticipation, eagerly awaiting the secrets that lie on the next page. Amidst these well-crafted words, my heart found a steadfast favourite—Thomas Matters. He emerges from the depths of the narrative as a beacon of courage and intellect, a character that ignites a fire of admiration within. The inked tapestry painted him as a brave soul, navigating the trials of his training and executing his duties with unwavering precision, defying the odds of being a foreigner in a land unknown.

It was the strength of his character and his unyielding spirit that won my affection. He carried a compassionate heart, yearning to uplift the downtrodden, yet was held back by circumstances beyond his control. Thomas prioritized the needs of others, a selflessness that set him apart in a world often marred by selfish ambitions. What truly made him a hero in my eyes was his refusal to succumb to the temptations that often lure men astray. In matters of love, he displayed rare integrity, cherishing a profound connection without exploiting it for personal gain. Thomas Matters, in every sense, embodied the essence of a genuine hero—a character to be cherished and revered in the vast tapestry of this remarkable literary journey.

Amid the narrative, there are aspects that I found rather dislikable. While the book undoubtedly showcases an impressive degree of creativity and imagination, it unfortunately has certain flaws that left me less than enthused. One of these aspects is the book’s extensive length, which, at times, became overwhelming. The surplus of details weighed down the plot, and certain explanations felt quite unnecessary, leading to a dislike for the excessive elaboration. I would recommend this book to readers who appreciate intricate and immersive storytelling. It’s best suited for individuals who enjoy novels with extensive world-building and a rich depth of detail. The book was exceptionally well-edited and error-free.

I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. It excels at creativity and delivers a captivating storyline that keeps readers engaged. The book’s length and rich details, while sometimes overwhelming, add depth and enhance the overall reading experience. Despite the minor drawbacks, the book’s extraordinary strengths overshadow them, earning it a perfect 5-star rating. In my view, this book is a masterful blend of storytelling, creativity, and authenticity that deserves the highest rating.