What do you think?
Rate this book
PARALLAX
ALL AROUND HONG KONG, PEOPLE ARE COMBUSTING.In a time of heightened political tension in Hong Kong, waste collector Tony Chao is found in a bathtub in his cage home apartment in Sham Shui Po. Submerged under a transparent pink liquid, he seems to be dying. The palms of his hands have been carved out with a sharp object to read the characters 猩红 “Scarlet” and 恆星 “Star”, and once he is pulled out of the tub, his body combusts into flames. It is an impossible cause of death with even more perplexing circumstances.Backed into a corner and blamed for Chao’s murder, the timid Johnny Lai enlists Proctor Davis - a private paranormal detective from the United Kingdom. The very bottom of the barrel, the chair-bound detective is the only person brave (or stupid) enough to take on such a ludicrous case and see it to the very end.Be it from the claustrophobic living spaces, the imminent threat of the police or from the bloodthirsty triad that’s gunning for his head, Proctor faces off against the consequences of sticking his nose where it doesn’t belong. In the bowels of Hong Kong’s poverty, he begins to make some sense out of the case. But can he solve the case in his condition in such suffocating surroundings? Can he catch the killer before his client is arrested, and can he figure out how these people combusted?It seems to be an impossible task. But of all detectives, Proctor Davis is one who embraces the impossible.
492 pages, Paperback
Published March 20, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
March 29, 2024
"Parallax" by Scott G.G. Crowden is a gripping mystery thriller set against the backdrop of heightened political tension in Hong Kong. The novel follows the unlikely pairing of Tony Chao, a waste collector found dying in mysterious circumstances, and Proctor Davis, a chair-bound private paranormal detective from the United Kingdom.
Crowden weaves a complex and atmospheric narrative that is equal parts suspenseful and thought-provoking. From the claustrophobic living spaces of Sham Shui Po to the looming threat of the police and the bloodthirsty triad, the novel immerses readers in the gritty underbelly of Hong Kong's poverty. As Proctor Davis delves deeper into the case, he faces mounting challenges and dangers, leading to a thrilling and unpredictable journey.
One of the strengths of "Parallax" lies in its vivid and evocative setting. Crowden's detailed descriptions bring the streets of Hong Kong to life, painting a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells that envelop the reader in the world of the story. From the bustling markets to the shadowy alleyways, each location feels authentic and immersive, adding depth and realism to the narrative.
Additionally, the novel's protagonist, Proctor Davis, is a compelling and multifaceted character who drives the story forward with his wit, intelligence, and determination. Despite his physical limitations, Proctor proves to be a formidable detective, unafraid to confront the impossible and pursue the truth at all costs. His unconventional methods and sharp intuition make him a captivating protagonist, ensuring that readers will be rooting for him every step of the way.
At its core, "Parallax" is a riveting mystery thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. With its atmospheric setting, complex characters, and suspenseful plot, it delivers all the hallmarks of a compelling mystery novel. Crowden's skillful storytelling and knack for building tension ensure that readers will be kept guessing until the very end, making "Parallax" a must-read for anyone seeking an exhilarating and immersive literary experience.
Crowden weaves a complex and atmospheric narrative that is equal parts suspenseful and thought-provoking. From the claustrophobic living spaces of Sham Shui Po to the looming threat of the police and the bloodthirsty triad, the novel immerses readers in the gritty underbelly of Hong Kong's poverty. As Proctor Davis delves deeper into the case, he faces mounting challenges and dangers, leading to a thrilling and unpredictable journey.
One of the strengths of "Parallax" lies in its vivid and evocative setting. Crowden's detailed descriptions bring the streets of Hong Kong to life, painting a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells that envelop the reader in the world of the story. From the bustling markets to the shadowy alleyways, each location feels authentic and immersive, adding depth and realism to the narrative.
Additionally, the novel's protagonist, Proctor Davis, is a compelling and multifaceted character who drives the story forward with his wit, intelligence, and determination. Despite his physical limitations, Proctor proves to be a formidable detective, unafraid to confront the impossible and pursue the truth at all costs. His unconventional methods and sharp intuition make him a captivating protagonist, ensuring that readers will be rooting for him every step of the way.
At its core, "Parallax" is a riveting mystery thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. With its atmospheric setting, complex characters, and suspenseful plot, it delivers all the hallmarks of a compelling mystery novel. Crowden's skillful storytelling and knack for building tension ensure that readers will be kept guessing until the very end, making "Parallax" a must-read for anyone seeking an exhilarating and immersive literary experience.
October 14, 2025
What an amazing read! The first book I have read from this author and I believe the first he has published and I'm so glad he has.
Such an immersive, interesting story, the premise kept me locked in throughout the lengthy novel. The amount of detail explored throughout the story was incredible, many points leaving me feeling like I had a great understanding of Hong Kong, an area I have never travelled. The immersion throughout this book was fantastic.
The characters were all developed wonderfully and by the end I could feel a true attachment to each of them.
I won't put spoilers for the story in the review but if you are looking for a mind bending, edge of your seat, mystery thrill ride with incredible pacing you have come to the right book. I can't wait to see what else this author publishes and follow his journey.
Such an immersive, interesting story, the premise kept me locked in throughout the lengthy novel. The amount of detail explored throughout the story was incredible, many points leaving me feeling like I had a great understanding of Hong Kong, an area I have never travelled. The immersion throughout this book was fantastic.
The characters were all developed wonderfully and by the end I could feel a true attachment to each of them.
I won't put spoilers for the story in the review but if you are looking for a mind bending, edge of your seat, mystery thrill ride with incredible pacing you have come to the right book. I can't wait to see what else this author publishes and follow his journey.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews