A review of ‘The Shanghai Circle’ by a member of the Online Book Club on the 14th of May 2024
4 out of 5 stars
Tony Henderson’s “The Shanghai Circle” is a captivating trip through the tumultuous terrain of 1936 Shanghai, where the lives of Davina, Joseph, and Irina converge against the backdrop of war and political instability. Set against the backdrop of colonial tensions and the advent of communism, Henderson expertly weaves a story of devotion, treachery, and survival in a city on the verge of collapse.
Henderson’s rigorous research and colorful prose bring to life the complex web of relationships and power dynamics that characterize Shanghai’s underground. From Davina’s tenacious efforts to lead her family’s trade firm through the prospect of invasion to Joseph’s search for vengeance in the merciless world of the triads, each character’s path is interesting and engaging.
The novel’s merits lie in its well-drawn characters and vivid depiction of historical Shanghai. Davina emerges as a brave and feisty protagonist who navigates the intricacies of business and family in the face of a wartime catastrophe. Joseph’s quest for power and identity within the Sung Society adds depth and complexity to the story, while Irina’s vulnerability and perseverance emphasize the human cost of political upheaval.
While the pacing of the novel can feel slow at times, especially in the early chapters, Henderson’s storytelling is consistently compelling. The rich plotlines and interconnected plots keep readers interested, while the wonderfully detailed setting transports them to a bygone era of opulence and mystery.
One minor issue is the explicit tone of several scenes, which contain violence and sexual themes. While these themes highlight the terrible realities of life in Shanghai’s underbelly, some readers may find them disturbing or unnecessary.
Overall, “The Shanghai Circle” is an engaging and absorbing read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction. Henderson’s brilliant blend of reality and fiction, together with his masterful writing and well-developed characters, make this novel a highlight in the category. Despite some minor problems, the book’s merits greatly outweigh its weaknesses, earning it a respectable 4 out of 5 stars .