A review of ‘The Shanghai Circle’ by a member of the Online Book Club on the 9th of December 2023
4 out of 5 stars
The Shanghai Circle by Tony Henderson tells a fascinating story about Shanghai, the city on the brink of pandemonium. The first book in the Chinese Circles series masterfully weaves the destiny of three vibrant characters against a backdrop of imminent conflict and changing alliances.
The story is set in 1936 Shanghai, and it follows the life of Davina Guest, a tough Taiwanese who must fight to protect the family’s trading house amid the escalating tensions in Japan and the rise of communism. Her determination and intelligence of a strategic nature make her a believable character facing a hostile political environment.
Through the journey of a mafia underworld, Joseph Cheung, heir to the Sung Society triad, faces struggles with his inner conflicts. The struggle for retribution and identity amidst a vice-infested world brings depth and color to the narrative, revealing a dynamic character torn between the loyalty of his family and his personal vendetta.
Irina is a white Russian woman who was dispossessed of her residence and identity and is therefore a poignant figure involved in the triads’ deadly web. Her resilience and struggle in a city on the verge of collapse bring forth the ephemeral nature of life in a city on the verge of collapse.
Henderson’s prose brings 1930s Shanghai to life, combining meticulous attention to detail with captivating narration. Fortunately, the book’s perfect editing, free from any errors, is commendable for the smooth reading experience that is almost unheard of in modern literature.
There is strong character development, a tense and fast-moving plot, and the perfect portrayal of a given historical setting.
One of the things that I liked about the book was its impeccable portrayal of 1930s Shanghai, vividly capturing the city’s ambiance and historical context. The seamless blend of accurate historical details with a captivating storyline made the setting truly come alive.
However, one of the things that I disliked about the book was the overwhelming abundance of historical details and Chinese terminology. While it added authenticity, it occasionally detracted from deeper character exploration, making some sections feel slightly dense for my taste.
Despite minor shortcomings, “The Shanghai Circle” deserves a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. Its immersive narrative, flawless editing, and skillful fusion of historical accuracy with an engaging storyline make it a must-read for historical fiction enthusiasts. Henderson’s deft hand at creating a bustling, authentic setting coupled with the gripping intertwining lives of the protagonists crafts an enthralling tale that leaves a lasting impact.