5/5

For fans of: 1930s Shanghai, enemies-to-lovers, murder mystery, political espionage, spies, assassins, crime noir

The Big Questions:

• What genre is this in? Historical fiction, mystery

• Are there any swoon-worthy characters? Literally everyone

• Is it spicy? Nope, but lots of pining

• Is it violent or gory? There are some solid action sequences, but nothing gory

• Should I buy, borrow, or pass on this book? If you are a fan of the original series, These Violent Delights, BUY IT!

Review: Where do I even begin with the EPIC conclusion of 4 solid novels and 2 novellas? The world building is so wonderfully unique, entrenched in 1930s Shanghai at the cusp of Japanese invasion amidst the turmoil the civil war between Nationalists and Communists. The crazy twisting plot of experimental science, assassins, secret agents, double agents, brainwashed operatives, and long-dead gangsters all chasing after each other gave me whiplash. The will of these characters to set aside their professional loyalties and strongly held beliefs for the sake of their loved ones was beautiful to witness and really highlights what truly matters at the end of all things. The character arcs for every single character was sheer perfection and their conclusions were all utterly satisfying. It genuinely hurts to say goodbye to this world knowing what history has in store for these characters in just a few short years. Chloe Gong has created such memorable characters, plots, and moments in her Secret Shanghai world and I am so thankful that she shared it with all of us.