A review  of ‘The Shanghai Circle’ by a member of the Online Book Club on the 1st of November 2023 

5 stars out of 5

In today’s rapidly changing world, marked by shifting alliances, global tensions, and ever-present threats, The Shanghai Circle by Tony Henderson offers readers a captivating retreat to a time when the city of Shanghai faced its own unique set of challenges. This first instalment in the Chinese Circles series paints a vivid portrait of 1936 Shanghai, where the lives of a determined Taipan, a driven triad leader, and an alluring White Russian woman intertwine against a backdrop of impending Japanese invasion and the rise of communism.

Author Tony Henderson skilfully navigates this complex historical landscape, capturing the essence of an era on the brink of significant change. One of the standout features of the book is the rich character development, particularly in the case of Davina Guest, a young and tenacious Taipan. Her evolution throughout the story is both compelling and relatable, echoing the resilience needed in today’s uncertain world.

Joseph Cheung’s journey into the treacherous world of triads adds an additional layer of complexity and intrigue. His personal vendetta keeps readers on the edge of their seats, offering a gripping reminder of the consequences of personal grudges in a world filled with hidden dangers.

Irina, the stateless Russian, is a character whose plight and fight for freedom resonate with today’s ongoing global struggles. Her journey is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.

Shanghai in 1936, often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” is vividly brought to life by the author’s detailed descriptions and masterful storytelling. As the story unfolds, the characters’ lives intersect in unexpected and dramatic ways, making for a truly engaging narrative.

The Shanghai Circle is more than just a historical novel; it’s a compelling exploration of an era when the world was on the precipice of change, a theme that resonates in today’s dynamic global landscape. The inclusion of the ‘Fact and Fiction’ section adds depth to the narrative, offering valuable insights into the period for history enthusiasts.

Tony Henderson’s meticulous research and storytelling prowess shine through in this work. The book takes readers on a captivating journey through a perilous world where the characters’ lives circle each other, ultimately converging in a thrilling and dangerous climax.

The abrupt and drastic shifts in the story’s plot in The Shanghai Circle by Tony Henderson left me feeling disoriented and disconnected from the narrative. There was no apparent pattern or smooth transition, making it difficult to follow the story’s progression. It felt like one moment we were immersed in one part of the plot, and the next, it changed without clear explanation. These abrupt changes created a disjointed reading experience that was challenging to engage with.

While I can’t delve into specifics without revealing spoilers, The Shanghai Circle by Tony Henderson presents a captivating narrative that’s not without its complexities. The story takes unexpected turns that I found somewhat challenging to explain without giving away key plot points. These shifts can be a double-edged sword – they keep the reader engaged, but at times, the abrupt transitions disrupted the flow of the story. Nevertheless, the book offers a compelling and immersive experience, earning it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. The intricate characters, the vivid setting of 1936 Shanghai, and the author’s storytelling prowess are undeniably strong points, making it a worthwhile read despite the occasional hiccups in the plot’s progression.
The book is well edited, as I did not encounter any glaring grammatical errors while reading

I highly recommend The Shanghai Circle for anyone in search of historical fiction that masterfully weaves intrigue, suspense, and a profound connection to the intricacies of our modern world. This captivating narrative offers a unique and immersive reading experience that is sure to leave you engrossed from start to finish.