A review of ‘The Shanghai Circle’ by a member of the Online Book Club on the 13th of May 2024
5 out of 5 stars
Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the bustling city of Shanghai, China during the tumultuous years of 1936 and 1937. In “The Shanghai Circle” by Tony Henderson, you’ll be taken on an enthralling ride through a world of power, passion, and greed. This gripping novel is based on true historical events and the characters are woven seamlessly into the actual events, making for an immersive and thrilling experience.
Meet Joseph, the son of the leader of the notorious Sung Triad Society, who is about to become a triad member and is thrust into a world of darkness, deceit, and corruption. Get ready to witness his struggles as he navigates his way through the ruthless prosecution of disloyal members, drugs, and prostitution. Meanwhile, meet Davina, the strong and educated daughter of a taipan, who is trying to prove herself competent in the male-dominated world of business. Follow her journey as she navigates the relocation of her father’s trading house to Hong Kong with the help of two recruits, James and Thomas.
But that’s not all, the novel also introduces us to Irina, a young Russian girl who fled to China as a refugee with her family but due to her family’s bankruptcy, is forced into prostitution to repay her father’s debts. Witness her struggles as she tries to overcome the challenges that life has thrown her way.
As if all these gripping storylines weren’t enough, the threat of Japanese invasion looms over Shanghai making the already volatile situation even more dangerous. Join the characters as they navigate their way through the chaos and danger of a city on the brink of war.
“The Shanghai Circle” will take you on a heart-pumping journey through a pivotal moment in Chinese history, filled with twists, turns, and surprises. You won’t be able to put this book down until the very last page!
I recommend “The Shanghai Circle” for readers who crave an engaging and thought-provoking read. Based on true events, the novel masterfully weaves together the lives of its characters, particularly Thomas, who journeys to China alone, determined to make a new life for himself. The author succeeds in brilliantly depicting the complex nature of humanity, showcasing both the good and bad sides of each character. The story also delves into the themes of revenge and power, highlighting how they can lead one to lose sight of what truly matters. If you’re seeking answers to the turbulent times in both business and real life, look no further than “The Shanghai Circle”. It’s a five-star read from start to finish.