A review of ‘The Shanghai Circle’ by a member of the Online Book Club on the 4th of December 2023

4 out of 5 stars

“The Shanghai Circle” by Tony Henderson

“The Shanghai Circle” by Tony Henderson is a riveting historical novel set in the tumultuous era of Shanghai in 1936. As war looms and the shadows of political and criminal intrigue encroach, the lives of a taipan, a triad leader, and a captivating Russian girl become intricately entwined. Henderson skillfully weaves together a tale of danger, survival, and personal vendettas against the backdrop of a city teetering on the brink of upheaval.

The novel introduces Davina, a resilient young woman thrust into the leadership of her family’s trading house. Her character is well-drawn, and her journey is marked by the challenges of navigating the impending threat of war, the rise of communism, and the unpredictable forces of nature, including a deadly typhoon. Davina’s struggle to safeguard her family’s interests and adapt to the changing landscape forms a compelling narrative thread that keeps the reader engaged.

Joseph, heir to the Sung Society, brings a different dimension to the story. His initiation into the world of triads adds an element of vice and violence, contributing to the gritty realism of Shanghai’s underworld. Joseph’s personal vendetta injects a sense of urgency and impending conflict into the narrative, creating a tension that propels the plot forward.

Irina, the stunning but stateless Russian girl, adds a layer of complexity to the tale. Her unwitting entanglement with the triads introduces an element of danger and suspense. Irina’s character, while caught in the web of larger forces, retains agency and resilience, making her a compelling figure in the story.

The portrayal of Shanghai during this period is vivid and evocative. Henderson captures the flawed but fascinating essence of the city as it grapples with impending doom. The historical setting is richly detailed, immersing the reader in the sights, sounds, and tensions of 1930s Shanghai. The author’s ability to transport readers to a bygone era is commendable, enhancing the overall reading experience.

The Shanghai Circle successfully intertwines the lives of its central characters in a perilous dance where survival and the pursuit of personal goals are at stake. The narrative unfolds at a steady pace, allowing for the development of characters and the gradual escalation of tension. The intricate plotting and the convergence of characters’ storylines contribute to the novel’s overall cohesiveness.

While the novel stands strong in its storytelling, there are moments when the pacing could be tightened to maintain a consistently brisk momentum. Certain sections, particularly those focusing on the family trading house, might benefit from a more streamlined approach to sustain the narrative tension.

In conclusion, “The Shanghai Circle” earns a solid 4 out of 5 rating for its immersive depiction of 1930s Shanghai, well-developed characters, and a plot that blends historical drama with elements of crime and personal vendettas. Tony Henderson’s ability to capture the essence of a city on the brink of transformation adds depth to this engaging historical novel. Fans of historical fiction with a touch of suspense will find “The Shanghai Circle” to be a captivating read.