What if the most dangerous demons wore the most dazzling disguises? How do you find your place in a city where magic and modernity collide, and your own identity is a secret?
Prepare to be utterly enchanted and thrilled by A. Y. Chao’s stunning debut, Shanghai Immortal. This isn’t just a book; it’s a vibrant, magical journey into 1930s Shanghai, blending historical glamor with ancient Chinese mythology, thrilling action, and a unique, compelling heroine.
What Kind of Book Is It?
- Genre: Historical Fantasy / Urban Fantasy / Chinese Mythology / Queer Romance
- Tone: Witty, atmospheric, glamorous, action-packed, culturally rich, and emotionally resonant
- Setting: Gilded and dangerous 1930s Shanghai, a city where human ambition clashes with the ancient world of spirits and demons
- Pacing: Fast-paced and immersive, blending thrilling action with moments of deep character development and cultural exploration
What Electrifying Tale Awaits You? (Spoiler-Free!)
Shanghai Immortal by A. Y. Chao is a historical urban fantasy set in the glamorous and dangerous 1930s Shanghai, weaving together Chinese mythology with a thrilling mystery.
The story follows Lady Jing, a captivating and immortal fox spirit who is one of the last of her kind. She’s been living a relatively quiet life amidst the human world, particularly enjoying the vibrant jazz clubs of Shanghai.
However, her peaceful existence is disrupted when a series of mysterious assassinations targeting powerful demons and spirits begins. Jing finds herself reluctantly drawn into solving these supernatural crimes. As she works alongside a cynical human detective, she must navigate the complex and often dangerous underworld of both humans and immortals, confronting ancient rivalries and discovering secrets about her own lineage and powers.
It’s a tale about a witty immortal solving a murder mystery, set against a backdrop of a city where ancient magic clashes with modernizing life, and a protagonist discovering her true identity and purpose.
This story is about:
- A thrilling supernatural mystery set against a unique historical backdrop.
- A captivating, immortal protagonist discovering her true power and purpose.
- Rich Chinese mythology brought vividly to life in a modernizing world.
- A compelling queer romance developing amidst danger and intrigue.
- Themes of identity, belonging, and confronting one’s past to forge a future.
Why You’ll Be OBSESSED with This Book
- Vibrant Setting: 1930s Shanghai is brought to life with incredible detail – the sounds of jazz clubs, the fashion, the political tension, and the clash of tradition and modernity create a truly immersive experience.
- Unique Protagonist: Lady Jing is charmingly cynical, powerful, and deeply relatable despite her immortality. Her journey of self-discovery is compelling and full of wit.
- Fantastic Blend of Genres: It seamlessly weaves historical fiction, urban fantasy, and mystery with elements of queer romance, offering something for every reader.
- Action-Packed & Exciting: The plot is full of thrilling chases, magical battles, and clever detective work that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
- Rich Mythological Roots: If you love stories steeped in Chinese folklore and mythical creatures, this book offers a fresh and exciting take on classic legends.
Ready to step into a world where magic and mystery dance under the Shanghai moon? Ready to get lost in Lady Jing’s world of jazz clubs and ancient magic? You can find Shanghai Immortal by A. Y. Chao on Amazon or at your favorite book retailer.
Loved “Shanghai Immortal“? You’ll Be Enchanted by These Next!
- “Iron Widow” by Xiran Jay Zhao: For an explosive, action-packed YA fantasy inspired by Chinese history and mythology, featuring a fierce protagonist who reclaims her power, giant mechs, and a polyamorous romance.
- “Jade City” (The Green Bone Saga) by Fonda Lee: If you’re drawn to urban fantasy with a unique magic system (based on jade), complex family dynamics, and thrilling exploration of power, loyalty, and organized crime in an East Asian-inspired city.
- “The City of Brass” (The Daevabad Trilogy) by S.A. Chakraborty: For an immersive historical fantasy set in 18th-century Cairo, featuring djinn, ancient magic, and a complex political landscape.
- “The Empress of Salt and Fortune” by Nghi Vo: For a beautifully lyrical novella steeped in Vietnamese-inspired folklore, exploring themes of hidden histories, female power, and quiet resistance.
