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The Hong Kong Widow
Win a free print copy of this book!
3 days and 23:59:34
1 copies available
U.S. only
Hong Kong, 1953: In a remote mansion, witnesses insist a massacre took place. The police see nothing but pristine rooms and declare it a collective hallucination. Until decades later, when one witness returns…from the Edgar®-nominated author of The Last Russian Doll.
In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges, in one of Hong Kong’s most notorious haunted houses—she has every reason to refuse.
Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life.
It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge.
Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about that fateful night in the cursed house at last—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .
In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges, in one of Hong Kong’s most notorious haunted houses—she has every reason to refuse.
Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life.
It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge.
Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about that fateful night in the cursed house at last—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .
368 pages, Hardcover
First published October 7, 2025
73 people are currently reading
21458 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Loesch
5 books295 followersKristen Loesch grew up in San Francisco. She holds a BA in History, as well as a Master’s degree in Slavonic Studies from the University of Cambridge. Her first novel, The Last Russian Doll, was a finalist for the Edgar Award and has been published in twelve territories. She lives with her family in Switzerland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 5, 2025
The last author who made me feel this off-kilter after finishing one of their books was Catriona Ward, so kudos to Kristen Loesch for playing pinball with my head so successfully for the last few days. I hope it was fun up there!
Ultra-brief synopsis: a Chinese woman living in Hong Kong named Mei with a gift of the “Sight” is seen as a young girl, a young woman and an older woman in alternating chapters trying to grapple with the events of her past. From a young age her gift has enabled her to see ghosts - some of whom she knows and some she doesn't. In the past she was invited as one of six mediums to attend a competition at a haunted mansion that ended badly. Decades later, she's now trying to make sense of that night and the bigger picture of her life.
I’m so glad I stuck with this book. I was considering DNF’ing after the first 25% because it had three timelines going and I couldn’t make much sense of any of them, in addition to it being very slow. My advice: Don’t read the blurb. At least not for the U.S. version. It says way too much yet still somehow gave me the wrong impression of what I’d be reading.
What I thought I’d be reading was a creepy ghost story with a continual sense of supernatural menace centered on a long-ago massacre. I thought it would stay more consistently in the lane of horror. What I got was a historical fiction/mystery/drama with sprinkles of supernatural horror throughout set in the time of the Japanese invasion of China beginning in 1937, the fictional tragic competition in 1953, and an investigation into that event in 2015.
Don’t get me wrong - the creepy ghosts, supernatural menace and horror were there, but it was dabbled between an unexpectedly emotional story about life. I was expecting literal and what I got was more metaphorical in the end.
So you must think I’d be disappointed. Quite the contrary! Sometimes what you think you want and what you unexpectedly end up enjoying are two different things! I won’t say too much, other than to say that the ghosts in this story serve a purpose beyond just being there to creep you out and I think it’s truly worth finding out why.
If you want a ghost story that leaves you with some deeper things to think about, I highly recommend this. Don’t read the author’s note ahead of time, but DO read it after. It’s very insightful!
★★★★
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley and author Kristen Loesch for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s due to be published on October 7, 2025.
Ultra-brief synopsis: a Chinese woman living in Hong Kong named Mei with a gift of the “Sight” is seen as a young girl, a young woman and an older woman in alternating chapters trying to grapple with the events of her past. From a young age her gift has enabled her to see ghosts - some of whom she knows and some she doesn't. In the past she was invited as one of six mediums to attend a competition at a haunted mansion that ended badly. Decades later, she's now trying to make sense of that night and the bigger picture of her life.
I’m so glad I stuck with this book. I was considering DNF’ing after the first 25% because it had three timelines going and I couldn’t make much sense of any of them, in addition to it being very slow. My advice: Don’t read the blurb. At least not for the U.S. version. It says way too much yet still somehow gave me the wrong impression of what I’d be reading.
What I thought I’d be reading was a creepy ghost story with a continual sense of supernatural menace centered on a long-ago massacre. I thought it would stay more consistently in the lane of horror. What I got was a historical fiction/mystery/drama with sprinkles of supernatural horror throughout set in the time of the Japanese invasion of China beginning in 1937, the fictional tragic competition in 1953, and an investigation into that event in 2015.
Don’t get me wrong - the creepy ghosts, supernatural menace and horror were there, but it was dabbled between an unexpectedly emotional story about life. I was expecting literal and what I got was more metaphorical in the end.
So you must think I’d be disappointed. Quite the contrary! Sometimes what you think you want and what you unexpectedly end up enjoying are two different things! I won’t say too much, other than to say that the ghosts in this story serve a purpose beyond just being there to creep you out and I think it’s truly worth finding out why.
If you want a ghost story that leaves you with some deeper things to think about, I highly recommend this. Don’t read the author’s note ahead of time, but DO read it after. It’s very insightful!
★★★★
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley and author Kristen Loesch for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s due to be published on October 7, 2025.
August 24, 2025
3.5 Stars
I loved the cultural elements of this novel which were easily my favourite aspects. In terms of the horror, this one felt fairly straightforward and predictable. Without the setting aspect, I'm not certain this one would have stood on it's own but I overall enjoyed this one for those cultural elements.
I would recommend this one for readers who are also seeking dark thrillers and horror novels set outside of the usual western countries.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I loved the cultural elements of this novel which were easily my favourite aspects. In terms of the horror, this one felt fairly straightforward and predictable. Without the setting aspect, I'm not certain this one would have stood on it's own but I overall enjoyed this one for those cultural elements.
I would recommend this one for readers who are also seeking dark thrillers and horror novels set outside of the usual western countries.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Read
October 14, 2025review soon!
March 19, 2025
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this breathtaking novel which will continue to haunt me for a very long time.
“One of those books where you wish you were already at the end when you begin, because you want to know it, and then you’d wish you were back at the beginning when you end, because you want to experience it all over again.”
A quote from the book, describing perfectly how The Hong Kong Widow made me feel.
It is a haunting tale propelled by internal and external forces, at times making my heart beat faster, at others utterly heartbreaking. The plot is pacy, raising a further question each time one is answered, which kept me up reading long after I should have been asleep.
Mei is our main character, taken from her home in Jiangsu Province to live in Shanghai with strangers when she was just seven years old. She lives through the Japanese occupation of Shanghai, the Pacific War and the Chinese Communist revolution, finding ways to cope through and with her loss.
The author effectively employs three timelines to tell this story – the earliest shows Mei growing up, the
second covers an event in Mei’s life which results in a horrific outcome which leaves the police bewildered.
The third timeline shows Mei, now an old woman of 85, helping her daughter discover the truth behind a mystery her dead husband had been desperate to solve. In helping her daughter, Mei considers the nature of their relationship and is able to learn from that too.
The prose is magical, each paragraph a beautifully wrapped gift which deserves to be lingered over. And the ending is full of hope.
I absolutely adored this book.
“One of those books where you wish you were already at the end when you begin, because you want to know it, and then you’d wish you were back at the beginning when you end, because you want to experience it all over again.”
A quote from the book, describing perfectly how The Hong Kong Widow made me feel.
It is a haunting tale propelled by internal and external forces, at times making my heart beat faster, at others utterly heartbreaking. The plot is pacy, raising a further question each time one is answered, which kept me up reading long after I should have been asleep.
Mei is our main character, taken from her home in Jiangsu Province to live in Shanghai with strangers when she was just seven years old. She lives through the Japanese occupation of Shanghai, the Pacific War and the Chinese Communist revolution, finding ways to cope through and with her loss.
The author effectively employs three timelines to tell this story – the earliest shows Mei growing up, the
second covers an event in Mei’s life which results in a horrific outcome which leaves the police bewildered.
The third timeline shows Mei, now an old woman of 85, helping her daughter discover the truth behind a mystery her dead husband had been desperate to solve. In helping her daughter, Mei considers the nature of their relationship and is able to learn from that too.
The prose is magical, each paragraph a beautifully wrapped gift which deserves to be lingered over. And the ending is full of hope.
I absolutely adored this book.
June 30, 2025
From my endorsement!: “THE HONG KONG WIDOW is at once an eerie haunted house gothic and a deeply profound meditation on mothers and daughters, the mysteries we end up keeping from each other, and the healing power of empathy and togetherness as a way of confronting — and laying to rest — the ghosts of a painful past. Stunning prose, impeccable historical research, and page turning suspense. I absolutely devoured this book.”
— Olesya Salnikova Gilmore, Author of The Haunting of Moscow House
— Olesya Salnikova Gilmore, Author of The Haunting of Moscow House
May 8, 2025
This book had me in a chokehold the entire time!!
September 5, 2025
Six nights. Six mediums. One house that whispers secrets darker than blood.
In the turbulent landscape of 1950s Hong Kong, Kristen Loesch weaves a mesmerizing narrative that blends historical drama with supernatural intrigue. This novel transcends traditional storytelling, exploring a refugee’s quest for revenge and redemption.
At its heart is Mei, a young woman caught in an extraordinary competition: six spirit mediums, six nights, one notorious haunted house. Her true prize isn’t the promised fortune, but revenge against the wife of the man who destroyed her life.
Loesch’s narrative brilliance emerges through a multi-layered approach, presenting Mei across three pivotal timelines. We witness her transformation from a child searching for her mother to a teenager navigating profound loss, and finally to an older woman confronting her haunting past.
The setting breathes with authenticity, a decaying manor that becomes a character in its own right. Mei’s journey reveals layers of trauma, survival, and the enduring power of memory, blurring lines between personal history and broader historical wounds.
Unexpected narrative twists elevate the story, with Loesch dropping bombshells that resonate like aftershocks. The supernatural elements blend seamlessly with historical context, creating a reading experience both intellectually stimulating and emotionally profound.
For readers craving ghost stories with substance, “The Hong Kong Widow” offers an unforgettable exploration of memory, revenge, and the spirits that never truly release their grip.
Thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for this advance review copy. My thoughts remain entirely my own.
In the turbulent landscape of 1950s Hong Kong, Kristen Loesch weaves a mesmerizing narrative that blends historical drama with supernatural intrigue. This novel transcends traditional storytelling, exploring a refugee’s quest for revenge and redemption.
At its heart is Mei, a young woman caught in an extraordinary competition: six spirit mediums, six nights, one notorious haunted house. Her true prize isn’t the promised fortune, but revenge against the wife of the man who destroyed her life.
Loesch’s narrative brilliance emerges through a multi-layered approach, presenting Mei across three pivotal timelines. We witness her transformation from a child searching for her mother to a teenager navigating profound loss, and finally to an older woman confronting her haunting past.
The setting breathes with authenticity, a decaying manor that becomes a character in its own right. Mei’s journey reveals layers of trauma, survival, and the enduring power of memory, blurring lines between personal history and broader historical wounds.
Unexpected narrative twists elevate the story, with Loesch dropping bombshells that resonate like aftershocks. The supernatural elements blend seamlessly with historical context, creating a reading experience both intellectually stimulating and emotionally profound.
For readers craving ghost stories with substance, “The Hong Kong Widow” offers an unforgettable exploration of memory, revenge, and the spirits that never truly release their grip.
Thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for this advance review copy. My thoughts remain entirely my own.
September 12, 2025
I like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me a chance at this twisty tale.
I read the author's other book, so I expected something a bit twisty with an ending I didn't quite see coming. With this book, I certainly got it.
A lot of reviews are thrown off by the three various time periods told through the story, since you have to know all three time periods in order for the story and the conclusion to make sense. You also have to be open to the idea of ghosts and possession, since that also plays a part in the story.
The interesting part of the story is how fate and the supernatural are tied to one another, and how grief could also weigh into that aspect as well. My favorite time period of the story was the 'actual incident' and what happened that night and the outcome that would shape the future which is how our story begins.
The reason I did rate it down a star is that when presented chronologically, and after sitting through the entire book, the story isn't all that strong, but the way the author framed / told the book the creepy aspect comes from that - you don't know what happened that night and to understand why and the outcome you have to see the book out through the end.
I read the author's other book, so I expected something a bit twisty with an ending I didn't quite see coming. With this book, I certainly got it.
A lot of reviews are thrown off by the three various time periods told through the story, since you have to know all three time periods in order for the story and the conclusion to make sense. You also have to be open to the idea of ghosts and possession, since that also plays a part in the story.
The interesting part of the story is how fate and the supernatural are tied to one another, and how grief could also weigh into that aspect as well. My favorite time period of the story was the 'actual incident' and what happened that night and the outcome that would shape the future which is how our story begins.
The reason I did rate it down a star is that when presented chronologically, and after sitting through the entire book, the story isn't all that strong, but the way the author framed / told the book the creepy aspect comes from that - you don't know what happened that night and to understand why and the outcome you have to see the book out through the end.
October 6, 2025
The Hong Kong Widow is a sinister triple timeline story that explores the childhood, young adult, and modern-day experiences of an elderly Chinese woman with secrets in her Hong Kong past. Part ghost story, part exploration in grief, and part family mystery, this book has just the right sparkle of supernatural to make this historical fiction satisfying for both mystery and horror lovers alike. Gothic feels abound!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
July 18, 2025
Kristen Loesch's The Hong Kong Widow tells a hauntingly tense tale set in 1950s Hong Kong, where Mei, a young refugee escaping the Chinese Communist revolution, becomes embroiled in a mysteriously haunted house séance competition. In place of the fortune promised, revenge drives Mei against a man who once devastated her life, and this competition's enigmatic hostess is closely tied to her painful past. As the story unfolds across several timelines, it reveals layers of betrayal, survival, and the long shadow of history without giving any spoilers to the central mystery.
Mei's journey is one of strength; she's haunted by memories of wartime Shanghai and saddled with a complicated relationship to trauma and forgiveness. The story also introduces her relationship with major supporting characters, including the enigmatic hostess, and decades later with Mei's daughter, who seeks truth and understanding about her mother's past. This multigenerational aspect adds nuance to Mei's character arc, including not just her confrontation with external ghosts but also the internal ones connected to family and identity.
Among the major concerns of the novel are survival in the face of upheaval, the scars of political and personal betrayal, and the struggle for justice and closure. The issues echo many ongoing discussions around colonialism's legacy, displacement, and women's endurance in turbulent situations. The setting of the novel, a city caught between modernity and tradition, is a reflection of the tensions, while the figure of spirit mediums and séances bears out cultural perceptions of the supernatural as metaphors for unfinished histories and silenced voices.
Loesch's prose is lyrical and immersive, changing its tone from a chilling suspense towards poignant reflection. As for the narrative architecture, putting into use three timelines gives a tight suspense and also fills in emotional drive by weaving the past and the present into one seamless whole. Her language invites readers to pause and absorb the postwar atmosphere in Hong Kong, from eerie haunted houses to bustling streets marked by political uncertainty. This lends towards the mood within the story and leads towards grounding and believing the supernatural elements rather than having them feel gratuitous.
This is the kind of emotionally educating book, historical drama combined with gothic thriller, delivering tension as well as emotional appeal, Mei's relentless search for truth, painful reconciliation with her past, and invitation of queries from readers on the price of revenge as against healing. The promise of hope does not minimize the weight of Mei's suffering but reinforces themes of empathy and the ties that bind mothers and daughters.
If much can be said for The Hong Kong Widow in general terms, historically, it places itself among those particular fictions of suspense that dwell in the colonial past. In definite ways, it contrasts with other work by Kristen Loesch on women's lives amid notable moments of historical change, clearly because of the embroidery of the ghost story on social reflection. Through this atmospheric setting, the plot gains density and authenticity in regard to a city that finds itself straddled between the old world and the new.
This criticism always makes a constructive argument to points where plot complexity gets close to overwhelming pacing, although the layers usually reward a patient reader. It might also be true that, while the supernatural competition is original, some people would have liked an exploration of the other mediums who compete alongside Mei. But this mix of suspense, cultural reflection, and emotional depth is what makes it a special book, and all readers will now be invited to think about how history mixes with memory and individual bravery.
In short, The Hong Kong Widow is an exciting and compellingly written novel, remnants of which will last long after the last page is finished, making readers reconsider the ghosts we all carry and the different ways we seek peace in chaotic contexts. It dares to challenge the readers into thinking about their own pasts and the connections across generations that hold them together.
Mei's journey is one of strength; she's haunted by memories of wartime Shanghai and saddled with a complicated relationship to trauma and forgiveness. The story also introduces her relationship with major supporting characters, including the enigmatic hostess, and decades later with Mei's daughter, who seeks truth and understanding about her mother's past. This multigenerational aspect adds nuance to Mei's character arc, including not just her confrontation with external ghosts but also the internal ones connected to family and identity.
Among the major concerns of the novel are survival in the face of upheaval, the scars of political and personal betrayal, and the struggle for justice and closure. The issues echo many ongoing discussions around colonialism's legacy, displacement, and women's endurance in turbulent situations. The setting of the novel, a city caught between modernity and tradition, is a reflection of the tensions, while the figure of spirit mediums and séances bears out cultural perceptions of the supernatural as metaphors for unfinished histories and silenced voices.
Loesch's prose is lyrical and immersive, changing its tone from a chilling suspense towards poignant reflection. As for the narrative architecture, putting into use three timelines gives a tight suspense and also fills in emotional drive by weaving the past and the present into one seamless whole. Her language invites readers to pause and absorb the postwar atmosphere in Hong Kong, from eerie haunted houses to bustling streets marked by political uncertainty. This lends towards the mood within the story and leads towards grounding and believing the supernatural elements rather than having them feel gratuitous.
This is the kind of emotionally educating book, historical drama combined with gothic thriller, delivering tension as well as emotional appeal, Mei's relentless search for truth, painful reconciliation with her past, and invitation of queries from readers on the price of revenge as against healing. The promise of hope does not minimize the weight of Mei's suffering but reinforces themes of empathy and the ties that bind mothers and daughters.
If much can be said for The Hong Kong Widow in general terms, historically, it places itself among those particular fictions of suspense that dwell in the colonial past. In definite ways, it contrasts with other work by Kristen Loesch on women's lives amid notable moments of historical change, clearly because of the embroidery of the ghost story on social reflection. Through this atmospheric setting, the plot gains density and authenticity in regard to a city that finds itself straddled between the old world and the new.
This criticism always makes a constructive argument to points where plot complexity gets close to overwhelming pacing, although the layers usually reward a patient reader. It might also be true that, while the supernatural competition is original, some people would have liked an exploration of the other mediums who compete alongside Mei. But this mix of suspense, cultural reflection, and emotional depth is what makes it a special book, and all readers will now be invited to think about how history mixes with memory and individual bravery.
In short, The Hong Kong Widow is an exciting and compellingly written novel, remnants of which will last long after the last page is finished, making readers reconsider the ghosts we all carry and the different ways we seek peace in chaotic contexts. It dares to challenge the readers into thinking about their own pasts and the connections across generations that hold them together.
May 14, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC! The Hong Kong Widow is an exceptional novel that masterfully captures the complexity of human emotions against the backdrop of a city teetering between tradition and modernity. From the very first page, I was drawn into a world filled with passion, heartbreak, and resilience. The story centers around Mei Ling, a woman whose life is irrevocably changed by love and tragedy. Set amidst the vibrant yet tumultuous landscape of Hong Kong, the narrative delves into themes of loss, cultural identity, and the indomitable spirit of a woman fighting to find her place in a rapidly changing society. The author’s vivid descriptions bring Hong Kong’s bustling streets, serene temples, and poignant moments to life, creating an immersive reading experience. What truly sets this novel apart is the depth of its character development. Mei Ling is portrayed with remarkable sensitivity and nuance—her joys, sorrows, and unwavering strength make her an incredibly relatable and inspiring protagonist. Her journey through grief to healing is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, illustrating the power of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. The storytelling is compelling, with a perfect balance of suspense, emotional depth, and cultural insight. The pacing kept me engaged from start to finish, and the intricate plot twists added layers of complexity that made the book impossible to put down. The author’s meticulous research and authentic portrayal of Hong Kong’s historical and social landscape enrich the narrative, offering readers a genuine glimpse into the city’s soul. Beyond its compelling plot, The Hong Kong Widow explores universal themes—love that endures beyond loss, the importance of community and heritage, and the strength found within oneself during dark times. It’s a beautifully written testament to the resilience of women and the enduring spirit of a city that refuses to be broken. In summary, The Hong Kong Widow is a powerful, emotionally charged novel that leaves a lasting impression. It combines rich storytelling, complex characters, and cultural depth into a seamless narrative that I wholeheartedly recommend. An absolute five-star masterpiece that will stay with you long after the last page.
May 13, 2025
The Hong Kong Widow is a complex narrative, full of events, character relationships and the supernatural, set mostly in Shanghai and Hong Kong, and spanning nearly eighty years of the life of main character, Mei.
As always, Kristen Loesch’s prose is golden on a sentence level, full of imagery, local sensory detail that – most memorably – evokes the China of Mei’s youth, and aphorisms (according to Mei, the long-drawn effects of war are like losing your life “one mahjong tile at a time. You can lose it while you’re not even looking”).
However, Loesch, above all, is a storyteller, and this is a novel that bursts with story.
For all its gothic horror and ghouls – and, dare I even say it?, a haunted house that makes the Overlook Hotel of The Shining look like a motorway Travelodge – ultimately this is a tale of how the losses of the past, present and future can haunt (the ghosts of) ourselves.
It is not all horror and darkness, though. Despite the backdrop of war and innumerable personal traumas, there are, for instance, great charm and humour to the scenes of young Mei. First Wife “wears a qipao with so many flowers sewn into it that I want to sneeze”. After breaking a vow of silence, Little Mei’s voice is “like a pet cricket that doesn’t want to go back in its cage”. And, despite the challenges of her journey, Mei’s IS a journey, one built on resilience and self-determination. A journey that ends with hope.
As always, Kristen Loesch’s prose is golden on a sentence level, full of imagery, local sensory detail that – most memorably – evokes the China of Mei’s youth, and aphorisms (according to Mei, the long-drawn effects of war are like losing your life “one mahjong tile at a time. You can lose it while you’re not even looking”).
However, Loesch, above all, is a storyteller, and this is a novel that bursts with story.
For all its gothic horror and ghouls – and, dare I even say it?, a haunted house that makes the Overlook Hotel of The Shining look like a motorway Travelodge – ultimately this is a tale of how the losses of the past, present and future can haunt (the ghosts of) ourselves.
It is not all horror and darkness, though. Despite the backdrop of war and innumerable personal traumas, there are, for instance, great charm and humour to the scenes of young Mei. First Wife “wears a qipao with so many flowers sewn into it that I want to sneeze”. After breaking a vow of silence, Little Mei’s voice is “like a pet cricket that doesn’t want to go back in its cage”. And, despite the challenges of her journey, Mei’s IS a journey, one built on resilience and self-determination. A journey that ends with hope.
October 6, 2025
Thank you Berkley Pub for the free book and thank you PRH Audio for the #gifted listening copy of The Hong Kong Widow! #BerkleyBookstagram #BerkleyIG #berkley #berkleypub #PRHAudioPartner #PRHAInfluencer #TheHongKongWidow #KristenLoesch #AnnieQRiegel #historicalfiction
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐝𝐨𝐰
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐡
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫: 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐞 𝐐. 𝐑𝐢𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐥
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
𝟰★
Kristen Loesch is one amazing storyteller! The Hong Kong Widow is haunting yet beautifully written and I loved how it combined so many genres into one. It was a combination of historical fiction and gothic thriller with supernatural elements that made this book so unique. From the start I could just feel the tension and the author did such an amazing job with the way the book was set up. I loved the multiple timelines in the 1930s, 1950s and present day (2015). I also thought it was interesting learning more about the historical time period. I loved my time with this book and Mei and loved how there were cultural aspects woven effortlessly throughout the book. My only criticism was the shifting between time periods got a little confusing at times, but after awhile, I did get the hang of it and was able to better keep up with the back and forth of the multiple time periods.
🎧Narrated by Annie Q. Riegel, I loved how she took the reader on an epic journey and brought this novel to life. It was haunting and beautiful at the same time and I loved listening to Riegel narrate this story. The way she created tension was unmatched and I cannot recommend the audio enough!
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐝𝐨𝐰
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐡
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫: 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐞 𝐐. 𝐑𝐢𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐥
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
𝟰★
Kristen Loesch is one amazing storyteller! The Hong Kong Widow is haunting yet beautifully written and I loved how it combined so many genres into one. It was a combination of historical fiction and gothic thriller with supernatural elements that made this book so unique. From the start I could just feel the tension and the author did such an amazing job with the way the book was set up. I loved the multiple timelines in the 1930s, 1950s and present day (2015). I also thought it was interesting learning more about the historical time period. I loved my time with this book and Mei and loved how there were cultural aspects woven effortlessly throughout the book. My only criticism was the shifting between time periods got a little confusing at times, but after awhile, I did get the hang of it and was able to better keep up with the back and forth of the multiple time periods.
🎧Narrated by Annie Q. Riegel, I loved how she took the reader on an epic journey and brought this novel to life. It was haunting and beautiful at the same time and I loved listening to Riegel narrate this story. The way she created tension was unmatched and I cannot recommend the audio enough!
October 3, 2025
▪️Read this if you like:
▫️historical fiction- Jiangsu Province China 1930s, Hong Kong 1950s, & present day
▫️horror that’s not too scary
▫️mind-bendy stories
———
3.5⭐️ I went into this book expecting a certain kind of ghost story, but I came out of it with a different one.
I’m a big lover of ghosty/spooky stories, so I was excited to dive into this one. I will say that while this had creepy moments, it felt more thought-provoking than scary, which wasn’t what I thought it’d be. The ghost aspect of the story was more personal ghosts than paranormal ghost, though there was some of that too. The multiple timelines felt confusing at times (especially at the beginning), and I had to flip back and forth a few times to make sure I was following things correctly.
That said, I did enjoy this book. The historical bits about these time periods were interesting to read about in this kind of setting. The parts of the book that were more horror-focused were creepy and had me on edge, and I wished I got more of that. Even though I wasn’t expecting it, I did find idea of Mei struggling with the ghosts of her past to be compelling.
I liked this book, but I think if I had gone into it with a different idea of what it was going to be about, I would’ve liked it even more.
Thank you Berkley for the free copy!
▫️historical fiction- Jiangsu Province China 1930s, Hong Kong 1950s, & present day
▫️horror that’s not too scary
▫️mind-bendy stories
———
3.5⭐️ I went into this book expecting a certain kind of ghost story, but I came out of it with a different one.
I’m a big lover of ghosty/spooky stories, so I was excited to dive into this one. I will say that while this had creepy moments, it felt more thought-provoking than scary, which wasn’t what I thought it’d be. The ghost aspect of the story was more personal ghosts than paranormal ghost, though there was some of that too. The multiple timelines felt confusing at times (especially at the beginning), and I had to flip back and forth a few times to make sure I was following things correctly.
That said, I did enjoy this book. The historical bits about these time periods were interesting to read about in this kind of setting. The parts of the book that were more horror-focused were creepy and had me on edge, and I wished I got more of that. Even though I wasn’t expecting it, I did find idea of Mei struggling with the ghosts of her past to be compelling.
I liked this book, but I think if I had gone into it with a different idea of what it was going to be about, I would’ve liked it even more.
Thank you Berkley for the free copy!
October 18, 2025
I read the e-arc of The Hong Kong Widow by Kristen Loesch and I really enjoyed this story. This is a story told over multiple timelines. Mei as a young girl, Mei as a young woman in Hong Kong in 1953, and then the present day timeline where Mei and her daughter travel back to Hong Kong to figure out what happened in 1953. As a young girl, Mei discovers that she has a gift - she can see and communicate with ghosts. In 1953, she is invited to a competition with 5 other mediums or spiritualists, and during that competition, several people are murdered but when the police are called in to investigate, they do not find evidence of a crime. How is it possible? What really happened? That is what Mei and her daughter travel back to Hong Kong to find out. I thought this was a well done historical fiction mystery. This book was published. October 7, 2025. Thank you to Net Galley and Berkley Publishing for my e-arc.
October 5, 2025
Thanks to the publisher, via Netgalley, for an advance e-galley for honest review.
The storytelling in this, with three different time periods with the same main character, keeps readers on their toes with our shifting understanding of who everyone is and what their role in the story will be. The historical context and information in this were really interesting.
The storytelling in this, with three different time periods with the same main character, keeps readers on their toes with our shifting understanding of who everyone is and what their role in the story will be. The historical context and information in this were really interesting.
October 9, 2025
The Hong Kong Widow is an engaging novel that blends gothic fiction, haunted house horror, historical drama, and mystery into a richly layered story. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Hong Kong and shifting timelines, it weaves themes of memory, trauma, and revenge with an intriguing séance competition.
4 🌟
4 🌟
July 7, 2025
I have to admit that I'm not usually a mystery reader — mostly because I don't think my brain is compatible with solving mysteries well. Fortunately, this lack of mystery-solving skills makes for an entertaining ride when I do encounter mysteries because I just go along the flow.
I am, however, a horror reader, and I was drawn to The Hong Kong Widow not only for its gorgeous cover, but for its proclaimed horror elements. And horror it was! Unsettling, eerie, creepy horror that gets under your skin and only gets better as the story progresses (and with evocative illustrations to match!) I was totally sucked into this book. A beloved missing mother? Spooky séances come back to literally haunt? Returning to a liminal mansion where lives were changed forever? Yes, please.
I loved Mei from start to finish; in her youth, she is relatable, resilient, and even funny in the midst of such horrors in her life, and in her older age, she is wise, intelligent, and understanding. I was with her every step of the journey and truly never felt bored. The pacing of this book between the past, further past, and present made it a relatively quick read, and it never lingered too long in one spot to become tedious. I'm also not super familiar with China's history during this time, so I appreciated having to Google every once in a while; I can now can contextualize some of the events because of her story.
The Hong Kong Widow is intriguing, haunting, and beautiful in all the best ways. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I am, however, a horror reader, and I was drawn to The Hong Kong Widow not only for its gorgeous cover, but for its proclaimed horror elements. And horror it was! Unsettling, eerie, creepy horror that gets under your skin and only gets better as the story progresses (and with evocative illustrations to match!) I was totally sucked into this book. A beloved missing mother? Spooky séances come back to literally haunt? Returning to a liminal mansion where lives were changed forever? Yes, please.
I loved Mei from start to finish; in her youth, she is relatable, resilient, and even funny in the midst of such horrors in her life, and in her older age, she is wise, intelligent, and understanding. I was with her every step of the journey and truly never felt bored. The pacing of this book between the past, further past, and present made it a relatively quick read, and it never lingered too long in one spot to become tedious. I'm also not super familiar with China's history during this time, so I appreciated having to Google every once in a while; I can now can contextualize some of the events because of her story.
The Hong Kong Widow is intriguing, haunting, and beautiful in all the best ways. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2025
I really liked the premise of "The Hong Kong Widow" but the novel ultimately fell short of my expectations.
The ghost element was interesting at first, but its execution, especially in the present-day timeline, was rather weird and didn't make a lot of sense. The revenge storyline also didn't really work for me.
The ghost element was interesting at first, but its execution, especially in the present-day timeline, was rather weird and didn't make a lot of sense. The revenge storyline also didn't really work for me.
October 7, 2025
I loved Kristen Loesch‘s first novel, The Last Russian Doll, so I was excited to read her newest book. The Hong Kong Widow is out today, and it is a stunning work of horror. Set between three timelines, it follows Mei from her difficult childhood, to series of séances gone wrong in her 20s, to her returning to the scene of the crime at 85. Vengeance, murder, and ghosts lurking around every corner follow Mei through this twisty foray into a haunted mansion in Hong Kong.
What I Liked:
- Ghosts! My favorite brand of horror is one that’s haunting and filled with ghosts, and that’s in full force here. Mei has the Sight: she can see spirits. This leads to her conducting séances (though not necessarily by choice) during which she goes into a trance and draws pictures. But then one series of séances goes spectacularly wrong, resulting in multiple murders and decades of regret.
- Identity crisis. A recurring theme throughout The Hong Kong Widow is the impermanence of identity. Mei starts off only as “Third Sister”; she’s shocked to learn the real names of the numbered motherly figures in her life. Further, it’s not always clear whether she’s talking to someone alive… or a ghost or an imaginary friend. It’s a disquieting quality in the book, and one that keeps readers continuously surprised.
- Creepy drawings. One extra element I loved in this novel was the inclusion of the charcoal drawings done by Mei and her mother. Many of them are so unsettling! They add tremendously to the story and the haunting feeling it exudes.
- Beautiful prose and insights. I love Kristen Loesch’s writing! Reading this book is such an experience, even just from the standpoint of wording and the way Mei’s perspective comes through. There are numerous phrases and passages worth marking down for later reflection; this novel has so many quotes and striking ideas that will stick with me.
- Three timelines. All three follow Mei, from childhood to old age, and this is one of those books in which all timelines hold equal interest. There’s momentum and mystery to each part, and while the chapters often end on a mild cliffhanger, it’s also exciting to suddenly be thrust into a different timeline before getting that payoff.
Final Thoughts
The Hong Kong Widow is a masterful work of horror that will seep under your skin and keep you guessing until the end. It’s eerie and haunting, with themes of family, identity, and what to do with all the fear and rage inside of you. I loved following Mei and her ghosts through the decades. Kristen Loesch is quickly becoming a favorite author, and I can’t wait to read whatever is next!
Special thanks to the publicists at Penguin Random House, Berkley, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!
* Please read my full review on my blog, Amanda's Book Corner! *
What I Liked:
- Ghosts! My favorite brand of horror is one that’s haunting and filled with ghosts, and that’s in full force here. Mei has the Sight: she can see spirits. This leads to her conducting séances (though not necessarily by choice) during which she goes into a trance and draws pictures. But then one series of séances goes spectacularly wrong, resulting in multiple murders and decades of regret.
- Identity crisis. A recurring theme throughout The Hong Kong Widow is the impermanence of identity. Mei starts off only as “Third Sister”; she’s shocked to learn the real names of the numbered motherly figures in her life. Further, it’s not always clear whether she’s talking to someone alive… or a ghost or an imaginary friend. It’s a disquieting quality in the book, and one that keeps readers continuously surprised.
- Creepy drawings. One extra element I loved in this novel was the inclusion of the charcoal drawings done by Mei and her mother. Many of them are so unsettling! They add tremendously to the story and the haunting feeling it exudes.
- Beautiful prose and insights. I love Kristen Loesch’s writing! Reading this book is such an experience, even just from the standpoint of wording and the way Mei’s perspective comes through. There are numerous phrases and passages worth marking down for later reflection; this novel has so many quotes and striking ideas that will stick with me.
- Three timelines. All three follow Mei, from childhood to old age, and this is one of those books in which all timelines hold equal interest. There’s momentum and mystery to each part, and while the chapters often end on a mild cliffhanger, it’s also exciting to suddenly be thrust into a different timeline before getting that payoff.
Final Thoughts
The Hong Kong Widow is a masterful work of horror that will seep under your skin and keep you guessing until the end. It’s eerie and haunting, with themes of family, identity, and what to do with all the fear and rage inside of you. I loved following Mei and her ghosts through the decades. Kristen Loesch is quickly becoming a favorite author, and I can’t wait to read whatever is next!
Special thanks to the publicists at Penguin Random House, Berkley, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!
* Please read my full review on my blog, Amanda's Book Corner! *
September 9, 2025
In late 1930s China, Mei, 6, is living in Shanghai, in 1953 she is in Hong Kong, by the 1950s she is in the USA. Everywhere she sees Ghosts. Now living in Seattle in 2015, her daughter, Susanna, has received a mysterious letter which prompts the two of them to travel to Hong Kong to resolve a mystery in Mei’s past. Japan invaded China in 1937 and ruthlessly occupied it. Mei had been living with her parents and sisters in a remote village, but following the disappearance of her mother she has been taken to live in Shanghai at her Uncle’s house. The war has not reached there yet, but it shortly will. She has always had the “Sight”, the ability to see, meet and converse with spirits, although she can’t conjure them. While in Shanghai she meets George Maidenhair, the owner of Maidenhair House, who becomes her teacher; initially just to overcome her dyslexia, but then to introduce her to the power of literature. George leaves China just before Shanghai is occupied and Mei stays in a Ghetto area until the end of the war in 1945, then escapes to Hong Kong ahead of Chairman Mao and the Red Army. Living in Hong Kong in 1953 she is invited to enter a competition with five other mediums, the winner to receive enormous wealth. The Invitation comes from former film star Holly Zhang, who is now George’s wife and lives in a vast mansion in the Peak area, which resembles the long lost Maidenhair House and is widely known to be haunted. What happened there during the seances is the mystery that Mei and Susanna hope to resolve.
This is a ghost story, a supernatural story, a horror story, a magic story, a fantastic story, a biography, a murder-mystery, a family saga. I could probably find another half dozen genres. What it is, is a beautifully written, lyrical story with a tremendous plot, full of surprises, twists, shocks and tensions. It is told by Mei, over three time lines; a tour de force of controlled exposition. Mei is a wonderful character, especially the precocious young girl who is trying to make sense of her world. I’m glad I met her.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
This is a ghost story, a supernatural story, a horror story, a magic story, a fantastic story, a biography, a murder-mystery, a family saga. I could probably find another half dozen genres. What it is, is a beautifully written, lyrical story with a tremendous plot, full of surprises, twists, shocks and tensions. It is told by Mei, over three time lines; a tour de force of controlled exposition. Mei is a wonderful character, especially the precocious young girl who is trying to make sense of her world. I’m glad I met her.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
October 9, 2025
In 1953, Hong Kong, witnesses insist that a massacre took place, even if police found no evidence of it. Decades later, there was evidence of blood everywhere, and at the time, Maidenhair House was the site of a competition between six mediums. Over six nights, they conducted séances, and the winner would get a fortune. Mei is a refugee from the Chinese Communist Revolution, and only agreed to go because the hostess is the wife of the man who ruined her life. The events of that night in Maidenhair House are now an urban legend, but now Mei must uncover the truth about the house and her final night in it.
The story is told in three time periods: the 1930s, when Mei is a young child, 1953, leading up to the séances, and then 2015, when Mei and her daughter Susana go to investigate Maidenhair House because an anonymous letter accused Mei of murder. The three threads are interwoven, with the parts labeled, and the separate sections of the book are labeled to make you feel like it's mixed up and out of order. The truth is revealed slowly, drawing you in and making you wonder from the start what happened, and more importantly, why.
The story involves ghosts, internal and external. Mei sees ghosts and can speak with them, some using up their energy to look as real as people. It's a trait her mother had, and why she was invited to Maidenhair House. War had hit Shanghai hard, with the Japanese imperial army trying to take over the city and China, then World War II. Refugees are present in the city, and Mei eventually becomes one herself. The loss and grief become ghosts as well, and Mei communicates with them through drawing or possession. Makes her raise her daughter with no sense of heritage or the past, but that leaves its own kind of emptiness and grief. Of course, Susana doesn't know how to deal with grief, thinking chasing down a ghost story will help. We see the layers of Mei's past, and it all weaves together at the end. This allows them to move forward, embracing the gift of Sight as well as family. I adored the haunted and lyrical way the story was told, fitting the Gothic tradition and atmosphere.
The story is told in three time periods: the 1930s, when Mei is a young child, 1953, leading up to the séances, and then 2015, when Mei and her daughter Susana go to investigate Maidenhair House because an anonymous letter accused Mei of murder. The three threads are interwoven, with the parts labeled, and the separate sections of the book are labeled to make you feel like it's mixed up and out of order. The truth is revealed slowly, drawing you in and making you wonder from the start what happened, and more importantly, why.
The story involves ghosts, internal and external. Mei sees ghosts and can speak with them, some using up their energy to look as real as people. It's a trait her mother had, and why she was invited to Maidenhair House. War had hit Shanghai hard, with the Japanese imperial army trying to take over the city and China, then World War II. Refugees are present in the city, and Mei eventually becomes one herself. The loss and grief become ghosts as well, and Mei communicates with them through drawing or possession. Makes her raise her daughter with no sense of heritage or the past, but that leaves its own kind of emptiness and grief. Of course, Susana doesn't know how to deal with grief, thinking chasing down a ghost story will help. We see the layers of Mei's past, and it all weaves together at the end. This allows them to move forward, embracing the gift of Sight as well as family. I adored the haunted and lyrical way the story was told, fitting the Gothic tradition and atmosphere.
October 10, 2025
The Hong Kong Widow by Kristen Loesch is a gripping historical horror that had me utterly spellbound from beginning to end. Told over three timelines, the book is the story of Mei, a woman with a gift, who can speak to ghosts and see sprits. Set in Hong Kong between the 1930's and the current day, the reader follows Mei on a fascinating journey that includes family tragedy, movie star glamour and an unsolved mystery.
In 1953 Mei is invited to Maidenhair house by former movie star turned recluse Holly Zhang, along with five other psychics/mediums, and each night a séance will be held and one of the psychics eliminated until the mystery of the spirit haunting the house is solved and one psychic remains and claims a valuable financial reward. Mei is keen, not because of the reward but rather because it is her chance to seek revenge against the owner of the house, Holly's husband, a man who helped to destroy Mei's life years before. However when the elimination of the competition gets a little too literal and it looks like Mei is being framed for murder the stakes get even higher.
This was a beautifully written mystery with layers of storytelling that held my attention and made me want to keep turning the pages. The historical detail was vivid, the descriptive writing transporting me to another time and place and bringing the setting to life vividly in my imagination. There is a slowly simmering tension throughout the book that comes to the boil very effectively in the final few chapters, and it is rare for a ghost story to have me quite as much on edge as this one did. The combination of many secrets and twists to keep the reader guessing and in Mei a protagonist that you cannot help to root for because we have seen her grow from scared and confused child to determined woman makes for an unputdownable book, perfect reading for a dark winter's night.
I read an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
In 1953 Mei is invited to Maidenhair house by former movie star turned recluse Holly Zhang, along with five other psychics/mediums, and each night a séance will be held and one of the psychics eliminated until the mystery of the spirit haunting the house is solved and one psychic remains and claims a valuable financial reward. Mei is keen, not because of the reward but rather because it is her chance to seek revenge against the owner of the house, Holly's husband, a man who helped to destroy Mei's life years before. However when the elimination of the competition gets a little too literal and it looks like Mei is being framed for murder the stakes get even higher.
This was a beautifully written mystery with layers of storytelling that held my attention and made me want to keep turning the pages. The historical detail was vivid, the descriptive writing transporting me to another time and place and bringing the setting to life vividly in my imagination. There is a slowly simmering tension throughout the book that comes to the boil very effectively in the final few chapters, and it is rare for a ghost story to have me quite as much on edge as this one did. The combination of many secrets and twists to keep the reader guessing and in Mei a protagonist that you cannot help to root for because we have seen her grow from scared and confused child to determined woman makes for an unputdownable book, perfect reading for a dark winter's night.
I read an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
October 6, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
Mei, who currently resides in Seattle, has decided to tag along with her daughter to Hong Kong. After receiving a strange letter about the mystery and horrors behind an incident back in the 50s, they decide to go and look into it. This will finally close the chapter on Mei’s suffering and all the questions that were left unanswered.
I had so many feelings reading this. My own grandparents lived through WWII in China, they all left China soon after the war, around the time Red China was starting. So many elements in this book spoke to me on a personal level it’s literally impossible for me to not love this book. Even though this book did have its spooky moments, I felt a lot of sadness reading through it. I wish I had been more curious about my grandparents lives, I wish I had asked questions. I wish they had told me stories. I guess I will need to go to my parents for all that now. The fact that Mei is literally called Mei brings me mixed feelings, because at home, im also known as Mei (not my name, my family nickname, as it means little sister).
I really enjoyed the use of drawings to represent the ghosts, or the sight. I’m not super well versed in Chinese ghost traditions but it’s like learning something I should already know about. I found this book not only educational, but also very entertaining. So many elements exist within this book: locked room murder mysteries, revenge, toxic (?) family dynamics, etc. I hardly felt like there was a specific villain, as every character has both likable and unlikable traits or has done questionable things. The complexity of the characters really added a star.
I def plan on getting the physical copy for myself.
Mei, who currently resides in Seattle, has decided to tag along with her daughter to Hong Kong. After receiving a strange letter about the mystery and horrors behind an incident back in the 50s, they decide to go and look into it. This will finally close the chapter on Mei’s suffering and all the questions that were left unanswered.
I had so many feelings reading this. My own grandparents lived through WWII in China, they all left China soon after the war, around the time Red China was starting. So many elements in this book spoke to me on a personal level it’s literally impossible for me to not love this book. Even though this book did have its spooky moments, I felt a lot of sadness reading through it. I wish I had been more curious about my grandparents lives, I wish I had asked questions. I wish they had told me stories. I guess I will need to go to my parents for all that now. The fact that Mei is literally called Mei brings me mixed feelings, because at home, im also known as Mei (not my name, my family nickname, as it means little sister).
I really enjoyed the use of drawings to represent the ghosts, or the sight. I’m not super well versed in Chinese ghost traditions but it’s like learning something I should already know about. I found this book not only educational, but also very entertaining. So many elements exist within this book: locked room murder mysteries, revenge, toxic (?) family dynamics, etc. I hardly felt like there was a specific villain, as every character has both likable and unlikable traits or has done questionable things. The complexity of the characters really added a star.
I def plan on getting the physical copy for myself.
October 9, 2025
Ever since she was a child, Mei has been able to see & speak to ghosts, but even so she is shocked to receive an invitation from former silent film star, Holly Zhang, inviting her to her home - Maidenhair House. The only details are that all of the guests are spirit mediums & will take part in a séance each night for 6 nights. After each evening, one medium will be asked to leave until only one remains. So far, so mysterious. Mei decides to attend but only because it will gain her access to the House which is owned by the man who destroyed her life years before & she still wants revenge. What happens that night becomes an urban legend & in 2015 Maidenhair House lies abandoned....but not empty.
It's not very often that you find me awarding 5 stars to two consecutive books in my TBR pile, but this book absolutely deserves top marks. After a slow start, the story starts to draw the reader in with the descriptions & main character, Mei. The narrative is from the point of view of Mei throughout, but in three different time periods of her life: childhood & the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong in the early 1940s, the séances in 1953, & older Mei in 2015.
Beautifully written, it is a mix of horror, historical fiction, & mystery as Mei attempts to find out what was behind the events at Maidenhair House all those years ago. The house is wonderfully creepy, & the characters all have their own secrets - especially the dead. I have no hesitation in recommending this if you enjoy slow-building historical fiction with horror elements.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Allison & Busby, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
TWs:
It's not very often that you find me awarding 5 stars to two consecutive books in my TBR pile, but this book absolutely deserves top marks. After a slow start, the story starts to draw the reader in with the descriptions & main character, Mei. The narrative is from the point of view of Mei throughout, but in three different time periods of her life: childhood & the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong in the early 1940s, the séances in 1953, & older Mei in 2015.
Beautifully written, it is a mix of horror, historical fiction, & mystery as Mei attempts to find out what was behind the events at Maidenhair House all those years ago. The house is wonderfully creepy, & the characters all have their own secrets - especially the dead. I have no hesitation in recommending this if you enjoy slow-building historical fiction with horror elements.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Allison & Busby, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
TWs:
September 7, 2025
What just happened?
Honestly, I felt lost for most of this book. It weaves through three different timelines, each trying to piece together moments from Mei’s life. Her sorrowful memories— both the ones she’s lived through and the ones she’s still facing, unfolded as I read, and for four hours it felt like I was right there with her.
Just a gist of the story: it follows Mei as she struggles with the disappearance of her mother. She tries to track her down using her Sight, her ability to see and interact with ghosts. Much of the story centers on Maidenhair House, a haunted residence with a dark history where many have died. Driven by anger, Mei heads to the Peak Mansion with one purpose and that was revenge.
Spending those hours with Mei, I went through so many emotions, but most of it was confusion, if I’m being honest. There were definitely moments where I was like, what the hell is going on? That said, this was my first time reading a book with horror elements, and it delivered. Not in an over-the-top way, but in a subtle, creeping manner. It's the kind of supernatural detail that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.
It was a well-written piece, full of atmosphere and layered foreshadowing that only makes sense once you reach the final page. It’s been a while since a book left me with that kind of lingering chill. I’d definitely like to read more of Kristen Loesch’s work in the future.
Thank you for this ARC, NetGalley, Kristen Loesch, and Allison and Busby. Really enjoyed reading this.
The Hong Kong Widow will be out by October 7, 2025.
Honestly, I felt lost for most of this book. It weaves through three different timelines, each trying to piece together moments from Mei’s life. Her sorrowful memories— both the ones she’s lived through and the ones she’s still facing, unfolded as I read, and for four hours it felt like I was right there with her.
Just a gist of the story: it follows Mei as she struggles with the disappearance of her mother. She tries to track her down using her Sight, her ability to see and interact with ghosts. Much of the story centers on Maidenhair House, a haunted residence with a dark history where many have died. Driven by anger, Mei heads to the Peak Mansion with one purpose and that was revenge.
Spending those hours with Mei, I went through so many emotions, but most of it was confusion, if I’m being honest. There were definitely moments where I was like, what the hell is going on? That said, this was my first time reading a book with horror elements, and it delivered. Not in an over-the-top way, but in a subtle, creeping manner. It's the kind of supernatural detail that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.
It was a well-written piece, full of atmosphere and layered foreshadowing that only makes sense once you reach the final page. It’s been a while since a book left me with that kind of lingering chill. I’d definitely like to read more of Kristen Loesch’s work in the future.
Thank you for this ARC, NetGalley, Kristen Loesch, and Allison and Busby. Really enjoyed reading this.
The Hong Kong Widow will be out by October 7, 2025.
August 31, 2025
This fascinating book follows the story of Mei from her childhood in Shanghai, to a seance ‘competition’ in Hong Kong and then her return to Hong Kong as an elderly woman. Full of wonderful descriptive prose this is a complex and unique family drama.
Briefly, in 1940’s China, during the Chinese communist revolution, Mei is just a child when she is taken from her family in the county to live in Shanghai where she grows up always looking for the truth about her mother’s disappearance, which took place before Mei moved to Shanghai. Mei also has a secret; since a very young age she sees and can speak with ghosts. In 1953 Mei is invited to Maidenhair House in Hong Kong, by former silent film star Holly Zhang, to take part in a seance competition but Mei has her own agenda. Many years later, aged 85, Mei returns to that infamous house with her daughter hoping to finally get closure.
I spent some time in Hong Kong in the 1980s and I can see how a property on the Peak would perfectly fit this storyline. The authors has crafted a beautifully haunting (no pun intended) and emotional story with a bewitching main character in Mei. The lives of women in China during the period covered are largely that of unpaid servants/ playthings for their masters. My heart broke for Mei, taken at such a young age, confused about her identity and her gift, wanting a happy ending that always seemed just out of reach. A compellingly supernatural historical drama and an enthralling read.
Briefly, in 1940’s China, during the Chinese communist revolution, Mei is just a child when she is taken from her family in the county to live in Shanghai where she grows up always looking for the truth about her mother’s disappearance, which took place before Mei moved to Shanghai. Mei also has a secret; since a very young age she sees and can speak with ghosts. In 1953 Mei is invited to Maidenhair House in Hong Kong, by former silent film star Holly Zhang, to take part in a seance competition but Mei has her own agenda. Many years later, aged 85, Mei returns to that infamous house with her daughter hoping to finally get closure.
I spent some time in Hong Kong in the 1980s and I can see how a property on the Peak would perfectly fit this storyline. The authors has crafted a beautifully haunting (no pun intended) and emotional story with a bewitching main character in Mei. The lives of women in China during the period covered are largely that of unpaid servants/ playthings for their masters. My heart broke for Mei, taken at such a young age, confused about her identity and her gift, wanting a happy ending that always seemed just out of reach. A compellingly supernatural historical drama and an enthralling read.
October 11, 2025
During her troubled childhood in Shanghai, Mei discovered that she possessed the Sight - she could see spirits. In 1953, as a young woman in her 20s, she received an invitation to participate in a seance competition in Hong Kong, hosted at the mansion of Holly Zhang, a former silent film star and wife of George Maidenhair, Mei's teacher, former surrogate father, and the man she now hates and seeks revenge on. The contest ends with most of the attendees murdered, yet the police found no bodies, leaving doubt as to what really happened. In 2015, Mei, now 85 years old, is told by her daughter Susanna that she has an anonymous letter which accuses Mei of being to blame for the massacre. The two women travel to Maidenhair House as Susanna needs to learn more. For Mei, being in this house revives more than bad memories.
The Hong Kong Widow by Kristen Loesch is many things. Most of all, it's dark. Mei's childhood years were filled with great loss and disappointment. She endured the Chinese Communist revolution and, years later, survived the Maidenhair House massacre. Featuring multiple timelines and supernatural elements, this book is not for everyone, and it wasn't what I initially expected. I struggled at times until everything became clear. It's beautifully written and I'm glad I read it. I went back and re-read certain parts to ensure I fully grasped what had occurred. Keep the lights on for this haunting story.
The Hong Kong Widow by Kristen Loesch is many things. Most of all, it's dark. Mei's childhood years were filled with great loss and disappointment. She endured the Chinese Communist revolution and, years later, survived the Maidenhair House massacre. Featuring multiple timelines and supernatural elements, this book is not for everyone, and it wasn't what I initially expected. I struggled at times until everything became clear. It's beautifully written and I'm glad I read it. I went back and re-read certain parts to ensure I fully grasped what had occurred. Keep the lights on for this haunting story.
October 2, 2025
In The Hong Kong Widow, we follow Mei over three timelines. The first as a 7 year old, taken from her home and moved to Shanghai where she witnesses the Japanese occupation, the War in the Pacific, and the Chinese Communist Revolution. The second, Mei is older and is invited to attend a competition for six mediums, in one of Hong Kong's most notorious haunted houses, competing against each other in six séances over six nights, until one vivtor emerges. But disater strikes, and witnesses insist a massacre took place, but police can find no evidence. Was it mass hallucinations?
Fast forward decades later and Mei is 85, and still trying to make sense of that fateful night, while helping her daughter try to solve a mystery her dead husband has been eager to get to the bottom of.
Want to know more? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
So all in all, a wonderful read, written in rich, flowing prose, and full of glorious cultural elements.
It's a dark thriller/ horror, but somewhat different to the usual type, in that it's set in Asian settings, rather than the standard, western haunted mansions/ halls that we're all so used to. So I really enjoyed that aspect.
The writing is magnificently descriptive , making it easy to imagine the people and places in the mind's eye.
A read that's out of the norm for me, which I found to be nice and refreshing.
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
Fast forward decades later and Mei is 85, and still trying to make sense of that fateful night, while helping her daughter try to solve a mystery her dead husband has been eager to get to the bottom of.
Want to know more? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
So all in all, a wonderful read, written in rich, flowing prose, and full of glorious cultural elements.
It's a dark thriller/ horror, but somewhat different to the usual type, in that it's set in Asian settings, rather than the standard, western haunted mansions/ halls that we're all so used to. So I really enjoyed that aspect.
The writing is magnificently descriptive , making it easy to imagine the people and places in the mind's eye.
A read that's out of the norm for me, which I found to be nice and refreshing.
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
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