A review of ‘The Shanghai Circle’ by a member of the Online Book Club on the 31st of December 2023
5 out of 5 stars
In the evocative tapestry of 1936 Shanghai, “The Shanghai Circle” unfolds a gripping saga of treacherous alliances amidst the looming shadows of war. The author deftly navigates a narrative web where a taipan, a triad leader, and a captivating Russian girl find their fates intricately woven in the tumult of impending conflict.
Davina, the feisty young woman at the helm of a family trading house, faces the daunting challenge of steering through the looming threat of invasion, the rise of communism, and the menacing fury of a deadly typhoon. Little does she know, a more insidious danger lurks in the clandestine alleys of Shanghai.
The charismatic Sung Society’s heir, Joseph, struggles with the trio’s brutal methods. Joseph has a personal grudge that drives him into danger in a society where violence and immorality are prevalent. Joseph’s unfinished business creates the conditions for turbulent encounters as the city’s pulse quickens.
Beautiful but without a state, Russian Irina unintentionally falls into the merciless hands of the trios. The characters in the book swirl around each other in a struggle for survival and aspiration against the backdrop of a city on the verge of collapse. Destinies meet in a dangerous world created by war, betrayal, and personal grudges.
What I liked the most in this book is the way the author’s narrative breathes life into the vivid landscape of 1936 Shanghai, where the absence of sleek luxury cars and private jets underscores a time when sailing across perilous waters was the norm. Cheongsam-clad Chinese women and the harsh realities of child labor shape a city dominated by triads, where breaking the rules carries the weight of dire consequences, even death.
There is nothing to dislike in this book, and I did not find any shortcomings while reading it. The novel unflinchingly dives into gory and sensitive details, shedding light on the haunting practice of foot binding among Chinese women and the brutality of a society where murders are commonplace. The author skillfully contrasts this with the heartfelt togetherness between Charles Guest and his daughter, a beacon of warmth amidst the shadows.
“The Shanghai Circle” not only introduces readers to genuine Chinese history but also captivates them with its beloved characters. The echoes of betrayal and the profound impacts of war linger, creating a vivid backdrop that stays with you well after the last page. The author expertly weaves the complexities of a city and its inhabitants, making this more than just a novel; it’s a journey through history, a dance with danger, and a tribute to the resilient spirit of those navigating the narrow alleys of 1936 Shanghai.
The book was professionally edited, and I did not come across any errors. For the author’s engaging and skillful writing, I rate this book a solid 5 out of 5.