A review of ‘The Shanghai Circle’ by a member of the Online Book Club on the 21st of April 2024
5 out of 5 stars
Tony Henderson‘s debut novel, The Shanghai Circle: Chinese Circles Book One, sweeps readers into the bustling streets of 1936 Shanghai with immersive descriptive writing that vividly captures the essence of the city. Against the backdrop of the impending Japanese invasion in 1937, Henderson masterfully weaves a tale of uncertainty, intrigue and cultural complexities set within the dynamic landscape of Shanghai’s business world.
From the very first page, readers are transported into the heart of Downtown Shanghai, where the sights, sounds and smells of the city envelop them in its vibrant atmosphere. Henderson‘s meticulous attention to detail breathes life into the setting, making the reader feel as though they are walking alongside the characters through the crowded streets and alleys of this captivating metropolis.
At the core of the narrative is the looming threat of the Japanese invasion, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the lives of the Chinese residents of Shanghai. Against this backdrop, we are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, including the Guest business facilitating their upheaval to Hong Kong and a pair of expatriates from the UK. With the inclusion of the power dynamics among the members of an ancient triad clan and a Russian expatriate whose family fled their affluent lifestyle following the Russian Revolution of 1917, only to be left orphaned and destitute, their intertwined stories explore themes of identity, loyalty and the struggle for survival in a city on the brink of upheaval. Navigating the complexities of Shanghai’s social hierarchy, every character feels distinct and multi-dimensional, adding depth and nuance to the story.
Overall, The Shanghai Circle: Chinese Circles Book One is a captivating debut novel to what promises to be an enthralling series. With its blend of mystery, intrigue and historical authenticity, this is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone seeking an immersive journey through the streets of old Shanghai. Given the nature of the narrative, the novel does contain adult themes and almost without any errors, I rate this book a 5 out of 5.