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The Fourth Princess
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From the internationally bestselling author of The Porcelain Moon comes a haunting Gothic novel set in 1911 China. Two young women living in a crumbling, once-grand Shanghai mansion face danger as secrets of their pasts come to light, even as the mansion’s own secret threatens the present.
Shanghai, 1911. Lisan Liu is elated when she is hired as secretary to wealthy American Caroline Stanton, the new mistress of Lennox Manor on the outskirts of Shanghai’s International Settlement. However, the Manor has a dark past due to a previous owner’s suicide, and soon Lisan’s childhood nightmares resurface with more intensity and meld with haunted visions of a woman in red. Adding to her unease is the young gardener, Yao, who both entices and disturbs her.
Newly married Caroline looks forward to life in China with her husband, Thomas, away from the shadows of another earlier tragedy. But an unwelcome guest, Andrew Grey, attends her party and claims to know secrets she can’t afford to have exposed. At the same party, the notorious princess Masako Kyo approaches Lisan with questions about the young woman’s family that the orphaned Lisan can’t answer.
As Caroline struggles with Grey’s extortion and Thomas’s mysterious illness, Lisan’s future is upended when she learns the truth about her past, and why her identity has been hidden all these years. All the while, strange incidents accelerate, driving Lisan to doubt her sanity as Lennox Manor seems unwilling to release her until she fulfills demands from beyond the grave.
Shanghai, 1911. Lisan Liu is elated when she is hired as secretary to wealthy American Caroline Stanton, the new mistress of Lennox Manor on the outskirts of Shanghai’s International Settlement. However, the Manor has a dark past due to a previous owner’s suicide, and soon Lisan’s childhood nightmares resurface with more intensity and meld with haunted visions of a woman in red. Adding to her unease is the young gardener, Yao, who both entices and disturbs her.
Newly married Caroline looks forward to life in China with her husband, Thomas, away from the shadows of another earlier tragedy. But an unwelcome guest, Andrew Grey, attends her party and claims to know secrets she can’t afford to have exposed. At the same party, the notorious princess Masako Kyo approaches Lisan with questions about the young woman’s family that the orphaned Lisan can’t answer.
As Caroline struggles with Grey’s extortion and Thomas’s mysterious illness, Lisan’s future is upended when she learns the truth about her past, and why her identity has been hidden all these years. All the while, strange incidents accelerate, driving Lisan to doubt her sanity as Lennox Manor seems unwilling to release her until she fulfills demands from beyond the grave.
336 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 17, 2026
13 people are currently reading
14971 people want to read
About the author
Janie Chang
8 books1,348 followersJanie Chang is a bestselling author of historical fiction. Her books are often inspired by tales of ancestors who encountered dragons, ghosts, and immortals as well as family stories about life in China in the years before the Second World War. Her novels, THREE SOULS and DRAGON SPRINGS ROAD were nominated for the International Dublin Literary Award. DRAGON SPRINGS ROAD was a Canadian national bestseller. Her third novel THE LIBRARY OF LEGENDS was a Canadian national bestseller and a Book of the Month Club selection. THE PORCELAIN MOON is set in WWI France and brings to readers the forgotten history of the 140,000 Chinese workers sent to the Western Front. THE PHOENIX CROWN, a novel co-authored with Kate Quinn, released in February 2024. THE FOURTH PRINCESS, releasing in February 2026, is her first Gothic novel.
Born in Taiwan, Janie has lived in the Philippines, Iran, Thailand, and New Zealand. She now lives on the Sunshine Coast of beautiful British Columbia, Canada with her husband and Minnie, a rescue cat who thinks the staff could do better.
Born in Taiwan, Janie has lived in the Philippines, Iran, Thailand, and New Zealand. She now lives on the Sunshine Coast of beautiful British Columbia, Canada with her husband and Minnie, a rescue cat who thinks the staff could do better.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 11, 2025
This is my first time reading a novel written by Janie Chang so I am glad that I took the chance to pick up this arc and give it a read. I will say that 2026 is becoming a very good year when it comes to fiction. This novel is set in China in the year 1911 a couple of years before the start of the Great War.
This haunting story tells the journey of two women from very different backgrounds who start to experience some hauntings of not only the house itself but also from their own past.
One of the women is Lisan a chinese girl who is estatic when she is offered a job as a secretary to American Caroline who is the new mistress of Lennox House. However, shorly after moving in she starts experiencing horrible nightmares she hasn't had since childhood. Meanwhile wealthy American Caroline has issues of her own. Her husband is away and she is unware of when he is coming back. Worst of all someone who knows a great deal about her past is trying to extort her.
Will Lisan and Caroline be able to overcome the obstacles that threaten their sanity or will it come crumbling down upon them. You do not want to miss this intriguing story!
Thank you to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this! All opinions are of my own.
This haunting story tells the journey of two women from very different backgrounds who start to experience some hauntings of not only the house itself but also from their own past.
One of the women is Lisan a chinese girl who is estatic when she is offered a job as a secretary to American Caroline who is the new mistress of Lennox House. However, shorly after moving in she starts experiencing horrible nightmares she hasn't had since childhood. Meanwhile wealthy American Caroline has issues of her own. Her husband is away and she is unware of when he is coming back. Worst of all someone who knows a great deal about her past is trying to extort her.
Will Lisan and Caroline be able to overcome the obstacles that threaten their sanity or will it come crumbling down upon them. You do not want to miss this intriguing story!
Thank you to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this! All opinions are of my own.
September 20, 2025
I like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me a read.
This was my first book by this author (I was familiar with her) and I really enjoyed it. I love Chinese culture, so having a Gothic(!) taking place in China is lovely. And, during a time where Europeans were making establishments along the river in various cities, allowing the Western style mansions to come into play.
I liked that you had two narratives you were following - the rich, American female and the orphan Chinese girl. Their paths cross when our Chinese female goes to work for the rich American. But strange things are happening in both of their lives which allows both narratives' villains to overlap. I had suspected about the fourth princess, but the other reveal had me surprised too.
I'll rate it down because I felt that the ending was anti-climatic for one of the females. I also felt Yao was set up to be a love interest but didn't do jack diddly. So don't expect a real romance with him and our Chinese female lead.
All in all, entertaining and I was happy I read it. A fine Gothic addition.
This was my first book by this author (I was familiar with her) and I really enjoyed it. I love Chinese culture, so having a Gothic(!) taking place in China is lovely. And, during a time where Europeans were making establishments along the river in various cities, allowing the Western style mansions to come into play.
I liked that you had two narratives you were following - the rich, American female and the orphan Chinese girl. Their paths cross when our Chinese female goes to work for the rich American. But strange things are happening in both of their lives which allows both narratives' villains to overlap. I had suspected about the fourth princess, but the other reveal had me surprised too.
I'll rate it down because I felt that the ending was anti-climatic for one of the females. I also felt Yao was set up to be a love interest but didn't do jack diddly. So don't expect a real romance with him and our Chinese female lead.
All in all, entertaining and I was happy I read it. A fine Gothic addition.
January 12, 2026
A haunting tale set in a world filled with family secrets and deceit, set in 1911 Shanghai. The Fourth Princess is a tale rooted in the traditional sense of the gothic novel, filled with eeriness, secrets, and a wonderfully depicted decaying mansion, but in a nontraditional setting, which I loved, and I learnt a lot regarding this era of Chinese history. Paced well, there was a thrilling level of suspense throughout. I highly recommend reading the author's notes at the end, because they really do add an extra level to the novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an eArc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an eArc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Fourth Princess is a tale of secrets and deceptions, lies and loves with a bit of superstition and mystery thrown in, all of which make for a very entertaining, enthralling read. Set in Shanghai’s International Settlement a decade after the Boxer Rebellions and before WW1, the story follows two very different young women as they navigate society and prejudices.
Lisan Liu is an orphan. She remembers very little of her life before she lived with her guardian, Mr. Liu who raised her and ensured she was well educate and would have what she needed to make her way in the world.Her world until the time the story begins was very shelter. But Lisa wants more, and she accepts a position as personal assistant to Caroline Stanton, another young woman just a bit older than Lisan, who has moved to Shanghai with her businessman husband. Life in the international community of Shanghai is complex and full of traps and pitfalls, particularly o the social side where high society has brought with it all the constraints and prejudices that flourished in their home countries. It’s a lucky break for both Lisan and Caroline. In addition to be very good at her job, Lisan can help Caroline navigate the mores and superstitions of Chinese life. And Caroline can open doors for Lisan that no one else can, perhaps other than her secretive guardian Mr. Liu. It is among this complex background that Lisan and Caroline find themselves.
Caroline is newly married to (and very much in love with)her new husband Thomas, a business man. They live in Lenox Manor with Thomas’s uncle and business partner Mason. But the very building itself is hiding al sorts of secrets. Lisan has nightmares of a young woman pleading to be found. When she leaves Lenox Manor, she feels a compulsion to return. Caroline has discovered Uncle Mason is not what he seems, and Caroline herself has secrets.
I a HUGE Janie Chang fan, and the Fourth Princess grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let go. The characters are so well crafted, the mysteries complex, it’s hard to figure out what’s real and what’s out. The story is fleshed out by Mr. Liu and young man named Yao, along with some others I won't go into, but who add depth and suspense. This is one of those stories where the pieces come together for you until almost the very end. If you like Janie Chang’s books, you won’t want to miss this one! It’s a 10 star read!
Lisan Liu is an orphan. She remembers very little of her life before she lived with her guardian, Mr. Liu who raised her and ensured she was well educate and would have what she needed to make her way in the world.Her world until the time the story begins was very shelter. But Lisa wants more, and she accepts a position as personal assistant to Caroline Stanton, another young woman just a bit older than Lisan, who has moved to Shanghai with her businessman husband. Life in the international community of Shanghai is complex and full of traps and pitfalls, particularly o the social side where high society has brought with it all the constraints and prejudices that flourished in their home countries. It’s a lucky break for both Lisan and Caroline. In addition to be very good at her job, Lisan can help Caroline navigate the mores and superstitions of Chinese life. And Caroline can open doors for Lisan that no one else can, perhaps other than her secretive guardian Mr. Liu. It is among this complex background that Lisan and Caroline find themselves.
Caroline is newly married to (and very much in love with)her new husband Thomas, a business man. They live in Lenox Manor with Thomas’s uncle and business partner Mason. But the very building itself is hiding al sorts of secrets. Lisan has nightmares of a young woman pleading to be found. When she leaves Lenox Manor, she feels a compulsion to return. Caroline has discovered Uncle Mason is not what he seems, and Caroline herself has secrets.
I a HUGE Janie Chang fan, and the Fourth Princess grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let go. The characters are so well crafted, the mysteries complex, it’s hard to figure out what’s real and what’s out. The story is fleshed out by Mr. Liu and young man named Yao, along with some others I won't go into, but who add depth and suspense. This is one of those stories where the pieces come together for you until almost the very end. If you like Janie Chang’s books, you won’t want to miss this one! It’s a 10 star read!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Haunted by History:
The Fourth Princess
in Old Shanghai
Janie Chang brings turn-of-the-century Shanghai to life in The Fourth Princess , spinning a moody and atmospheric Gothic tale around two very different women trapped by fate inside the crumbling Lennox Manor. Set in the turbulent year of 1911, the story shadows Caroline Stanton, an American bride looking for a fresh start, and her secretary Lisan Liu, whose intellect and compassion set her apart as an outsider in her own country. The grand house they occupy is decaying around them, filled with secrets that lure both women deeper into a web of deception and dread.
Caroline longs to escape her own past, only to find herself caught up with enigmatic houseguests, blackmail, and illnesses that can’t be explained away. Meanwhile, Lisan, educated but orphaned, navigates the uneasy space between servant and confidante, gradually drawn into unravelling the mysteries of Lennox Manor and her own buried grief. Each revelation peels back more of the era’s strict rules, simmering class tensions, and gendered expectations, all while an ever-present sense of doom grows.
Chang’s prose is sharp and immersive, painting a world where every creak of the floorboards hints at danger and possibility. The house itself looms like a living thing, amplifying the sense of claustrophobia and sorrow. The lush detail and slow-burning suspense are amazing, as Chang explores the corrosive power of secrets and the resilience it takes to survive them.
Not everything moves at a breakneck pace; some might find the novel’s lingering unease and unanswered questions more unsettling than satisfying, especially if Gothic fiction isn’t usually their thing. But for most, this is what makes the book linger. The Fourth Princess stands out for its psychological depth, richly realized characters, and the way it twists familiar genre tropes into something refreshing and unexpected.
In the end, this is a story about what happens in the quiet moments; the ways history haunts us, and how people keep going when the world tilts toward chaos. Chang has written a novel that feels both intimate and epic, a darkly beautiful journey through old wounds and flickering hope.
Janie Chang brings turn-of-the-century Shanghai to life in The Fourth Princess , spinning a moody and atmospheric Gothic tale around two very different women trapped by fate inside the crumbling Lennox Manor. Set in the turbulent year of 1911, the story shadows Caroline Stanton, an American bride looking for a fresh start, and her secretary Lisan Liu, whose intellect and compassion set her apart as an outsider in her own country. The grand house they occupy is decaying around them, filled with secrets that lure both women deeper into a web of deception and dread.
Caroline longs to escape her own past, only to find herself caught up with enigmatic houseguests, blackmail, and illnesses that can’t be explained away. Meanwhile, Lisan, educated but orphaned, navigates the uneasy space between servant and confidante, gradually drawn into unravelling the mysteries of Lennox Manor and her own buried grief. Each revelation peels back more of the era’s strict rules, simmering class tensions, and gendered expectations, all while an ever-present sense of doom grows.
Chang’s prose is sharp and immersive, painting a world where every creak of the floorboards hints at danger and possibility. The house itself looms like a living thing, amplifying the sense of claustrophobia and sorrow. The lush detail and slow-burning suspense are amazing, as Chang explores the corrosive power of secrets and the resilience it takes to survive them.
Not everything moves at a breakneck pace; some might find the novel’s lingering unease and unanswered questions more unsettling than satisfying, especially if Gothic fiction isn’t usually their thing. But for most, this is what makes the book linger. The Fourth Princess stands out for its psychological depth, richly realized characters, and the way it twists familiar genre tropes into something refreshing and unexpected.
In the end, this is a story about what happens in the quiet moments; the ways history haunts us, and how people keep going when the world tilts toward chaos. Chang has written a novel that feels both intimate and epic, a darkly beautiful journey through old wounds and flickering hope.
October 22, 2025
This story has many elements of gothic fiction, but more toward the suspense and dilapidated mansion locale and less on horror elements. I was drawn in by the cover, then the characters popped on the pages. Lisan was an orphaned, young, educated, Chinese woman who lived with her guardian in 1911, Shanghai. She found a secretarial job with an American, Caroline Stanton, who is the new mistress of Lennox Manor. Lennox Manor is a character on its own with its complicated history that makes the servants very nervous. Caroline is excited about her new life, new husband, and new responsibilities to rehabilitate the mansion after years of neglect. As the story unfolds, Lisan learns about her mysterious past as well as the secrets Caroline holds. I found the characters interesting and was rooting for Lisan to live the life she deserves. Caroline's secrets are unraveled piece by piece in the later part of the story. I had some guesses about her past, but never fully understood what she did to get what she wanted until the end. I am a newer reader of this genre and enjoyed the touches of supernatural elements, spooky manor nuances, and characters that ran the gamut from heroines to villians. If you are a fan of the author or gothic fiction, I recommend this book!
#TheFourthPrincess #WilliamMorrow #NetGalley
Thank you William Morrow and Net Galley for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
#TheFourthPrincess #WilliamMorrow #NetGalley
Thank you William Morrow and Net Galley for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Fourth Princess takes us to Shanghai, China in 1911. There had already been some unrest in the country but the revolution is still a year away. There are rich Americans who are trying to make even more money, and Thomas Stanton has recently come with his new wife to make money on a railroad through China. When young Caroline Stanton employs a Chinese orphan, Lisan, to be her secretary, their lives become entwined.
Lisan loves the independence of earning money and living in the Stanton mansion, but almost right away starts having strange dreams and sightings on the grounds. There is a lot of superstitions among the household because the previous resident had committed suicide. Lisan has always wondered how she came to live with her guardian because she has no memory of her first years. We learn about Lisan's life and also Caroline's past.
Don't want to give away spoilers but there is murder, blackmail, and just a little bit of the supernatural. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Lisan loves the independence of earning money and living in the Stanton mansion, but almost right away starts having strange dreams and sightings on the grounds. There is a lot of superstitions among the household because the previous resident had committed suicide. Lisan has always wondered how she came to live with her guardian because she has no memory of her first years. We learn about Lisan's life and also Caroline's past.
Don't want to give away spoilers but there is murder, blackmail, and just a little bit of the supernatural. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
December 10, 2025
4.5
This is a sharp, satisfying Gothic set against a genuinely fascinating backdrop. I haven’t read much about 1911 Shanghai, and the historical detail here really adds weight to the story without bogging it down. You feel the politics and social tension shaping what happens.
The mystery is handled so well—pulled back one layer at a time, with no over-the-top build-up or melodramatic “big twist” moment. Chang lets the reveals land quietly but powerfully and trusts the reader to connect the dots.
The characters are equally strong. We don’t know everything about their pasts up front, but as pieces are revealed, their choices and loyalties make sense. I had a few moments where I wanted the pace to kick up or for the plot to push a bit harder, but not enough to knock my rating down much.
Overall: moody house, creeping hauntings, buried secrets, and a really compelling look at this moment in Chinese history. I loved it.
This is a sharp, satisfying Gothic set against a genuinely fascinating backdrop. I haven’t read much about 1911 Shanghai, and the historical detail here really adds weight to the story without bogging it down. You feel the politics and social tension shaping what happens.
The mystery is handled so well—pulled back one layer at a time, with no over-the-top build-up or melodramatic “big twist” moment. Chang lets the reveals land quietly but powerfully and trusts the reader to connect the dots.
The characters are equally strong. We don’t know everything about their pasts up front, but as pieces are revealed, their choices and loyalties make sense. I had a few moments where I wanted the pace to kick up or for the plot to push a bit harder, but not enough to knock my rating down much.
Overall: moody house, creeping hauntings, buried secrets, and a really compelling look at this moment in Chinese history. I loved it.
December 19, 2025
Pub date 2/10/26
Author - Janie Chang
Publisher - Harper Collins
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I am immediately pulled in by the prose of Janie Chang. The way she finesses the words on the page are chef’s kiss. The epitome of visualizing the setting, bringing you into full immersion. A consistent unsettling tone lends to the mysteriousness. The flow of sub plots seem effortless and at no point will you feel lost - even when there’s a lot going on.
Lennox Manor. A once grand estate is now literally in shambles. If these walls could talk, oh, the tales they could tell. Stories of love and devastating loss. Hidden identities leading to betrayal, extortion and murder.
The Fourth Princess is for the type of reader who wants to dive deep into a book where the dark, unsettling atmosphere takes you away to another time.
Special thanks to Harper Collins via NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review The Fourth Princess by Janie Chang.
Author - Janie Chang
Publisher - Harper Collins
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I am immediately pulled in by the prose of Janie Chang. The way she finesses the words on the page are chef’s kiss. The epitome of visualizing the setting, bringing you into full immersion. A consistent unsettling tone lends to the mysteriousness. The flow of sub plots seem effortless and at no point will you feel lost - even when there’s a lot going on.
Lennox Manor. A once grand estate is now literally in shambles. If these walls could talk, oh, the tales they could tell. Stories of love and devastating loss. Hidden identities leading to betrayal, extortion and murder.
The Fourth Princess is for the type of reader who wants to dive deep into a book where the dark, unsettling atmosphere takes you away to another time.
Special thanks to Harper Collins via NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review The Fourth Princess by Janie Chang.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have found a new author, Janie Chang reeled me in with her new book The Fourth Princess. I love the title, it couldn’t be more perfect, and I loved everything about the book.
I loved the setting 1911 Shanghai, China, I loved the characters especially Lisan, Caroline and Yao. There was history and an element of gothic suspense. While the authors intention was to write a gothic novel, I feel that if gothic novels are not your thing you shouldn’t be driven away from this book, it was only a small element for me. There were elements of hauntings and superstitions that spooked the staff at the mansion, but this is not the main part of the story. The Fourth Princess is just a great novel filled with great characters, hidden identities, mystery, secrets, and history.
Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I will recommend it to my readers.
I loved the setting 1911 Shanghai, China, I loved the characters especially Lisan, Caroline and Yao. There was history and an element of gothic suspense. While the authors intention was to write a gothic novel, I feel that if gothic novels are not your thing you shouldn’t be driven away from this book, it was only a small element for me. There were elements of hauntings and superstitions that spooked the staff at the mansion, but this is not the main part of the story. The Fourth Princess is just a great novel filled with great characters, hidden identities, mystery, secrets, and history.
Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I will recommend it to my readers.
November 3, 2025
Loved this book so much! The level of intrigue was compelling and kept me up late into the night reading. I appreciated reading the unraveling storyline of the creepy history of the mansion and it's inhibitants. Fun to follow the service staff and their local superstitions.
Two women, both facing their own challenges while constrainted by cultural pressures upon women. Doing what they can to preserve their individual futures. Jaw drop! (no spoilers) 😄
I loved the ending!!!
Special note, I appreciated the author's notes at the end of the book of the historical significance throughout. I always enjoy learning new things while engaged in a fictional story. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and Janie Chang is one of my favorite authors.
Finally, this Whidbey Islander enjoyed the shout out to Butchart G., Victoria BC.
Two women, both facing their own challenges while constrainted by cultural pressures upon women. Doing what they can to preserve their individual futures. Jaw drop! (no spoilers) 😄
I loved the ending!!!
Special note, I appreciated the author's notes at the end of the book of the historical significance throughout. I always enjoy learning new things while engaged in a fictional story. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and Janie Chang is one of my favorite authors.
Finally, this Whidbey Islander enjoyed the shout out to Butchart G., Victoria BC.
October 9, 2025
This is the first book I've read by Janie Chang but it won't be the last! The Fourth Princess is a gothic novel set in 1911 before the war in China. The haunting story follows two women from very different backgrounds. A wealthy American and an orphan Chinese girl she hires to work for her.
But, once they move into this beautiful gothic mansion strange things start happening to both of them. Because of this, their lives somehow overlap and they must overcome obstacles. There was some mild twists I didn't expect and anything to do with a mysterious mansion I love to read! One of the endings of one of the main characters was ended abruptly short but overall a really good read!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this copy of eARC in exhange for my honest review.
But, once they move into this beautiful gothic mansion strange things start happening to both of them. Because of this, their lives somehow overlap and they must overcome obstacles. There was some mild twists I didn't expect and anything to do with a mysterious mansion I love to read! One of the endings of one of the main characters was ended abruptly short but overall a really good read!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this copy of eARC in exhange for my honest review.
January 16, 2026
3.5 stars
Recommend
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book was marketed as a Gothic novel set in 1911 Shanghai. However, this novel read more like a historical fiction novel with some Gothic aspects. It just missed for me.
Additionally, the writing was not the typical beautiful writing that I have come to expect from Gothic novels. The character development was weak, and the storyline wasn't believable.
If you want to learn about 1911 Shanghai, the rich foreigners living there, or want a Chinese-based historical novel, then read this book.
For a more detailed review, check out my blog - booksbydorothea: https://tinyurl.com/ycyfyccf
Recommend
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book was marketed as a Gothic novel set in 1911 Shanghai. However, this novel read more like a historical fiction novel with some Gothic aspects. It just missed for me.
Additionally, the writing was not the typical beautiful writing that I have come to expect from Gothic novels. The character development was weak, and the storyline wasn't believable.
If you want to learn about 1911 Shanghai, the rich foreigners living there, or want a Chinese-based historical novel, then read this book.
For a more detailed review, check out my blog - booksbydorothea: https://tinyurl.com/ycyfyccf
October 21, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Janie Chang, and William Morrow for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed reading this book. I was here for the incredible atmosphere and the vibes. The atmosphere is haunting, and a sense of unease throughout the novel. This was a refreshing story in the Historical Gothic genre. I was not expecting the twists that happened. The characters were well-written. We follow Lisan, who becomes the secretary for a wealthy American woman living in Shanghai. The historical elements were interesting. I will be re-reading this book again and again. I would highly recommend this book!
4.5 stars
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed reading this book. I was here for the incredible atmosphere and the vibes. The atmosphere is haunting, and a sense of unease throughout the novel. This was a refreshing story in the Historical Gothic genre. I was not expecting the twists that happened. The characters were well-written. We follow Lisan, who becomes the secretary for a wealthy American woman living in Shanghai. The historical elements were interesting. I will be re-reading this book again and again. I would highly recommend this book!
October 24, 2025
Janie Chang is beloved for her masterfully researched stories about the secrets we keep in order to contain the past. Now, in The Fourth Princess, Chang issues an irresistible dare to her readers to take up their lanterns and follow her into the dark mysteries of Lennox Manor. In 1911, when the lives of two women converge in a crumbling Shanghai mansion, they must grapple with a possible haunting and a dark history that won’t stay buried. Rich in historical detail and a palpable sense of unease that will deliver all the shivers, this luminous, Gothic tale will haunt readers long after they turn the last page.
November 18, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have previously read Janie Chang's novels and loved them so was very excited to read this. The premise was intriguing but the journey away from historical fiction to a gothic novel didn't quite do it for me.
The atmosphere was haunting. There was suspense in the story. For me, though, there was build up that somehow fell flat or got tied up nicely with a bow too quickly. I don't like slow, dragging storylines and this wasn't that but I feel like it lacked some descriptions and development I would have appreciated.
All in all, I enjoyed it but didn't love it.
I have previously read Janie Chang's novels and loved them so was very excited to read this. The premise was intriguing but the journey away from historical fiction to a gothic novel didn't quite do it for me.
The atmosphere was haunting. There was suspense in the story. For me, though, there was build up that somehow fell flat or got tied up nicely with a bow too quickly. I don't like slow, dragging storylines and this wasn't that but I feel like it lacked some descriptions and development I would have appreciated.
All in all, I enjoyed it but didn't love it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Two women living in a crumbling mansion in China. One, full of secrets, but married to a young upstart. He's been promised the mansion by his uncle. The other, an orphan, was sent to the best schools and works as a personal secretary for the lady of the house. When secrets are exposed, both women find strength in themselves and each other.
This is an excellent gothic thriller, in a surprise setting of Asia. I'm a huge fan of gothic thrillers and this easily can sit on the shelf with other classic gothic thrillers.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is an excellent gothic thriller, in a surprise setting of Asia. I'm a huge fan of gothic thrillers and this easily can sit on the shelf with other classic gothic thrillers.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 30, 2025
This is a great gothic complete with a spooky house and a ghost. It is made more interesting by its location, Shanghai in 1911. Lisan Liu, who's parentage is uncertain, is delighted with her new job as the social secretary for Caroline. Newly wed Caroline has just arrived in Shanghai from the US. She is intrigued by Shanghai and all the levels of its society. Lisan is a valuable assistant for Caroline as they both navigate the dark dubious characters of this gothic novel.
Thanks to NetGalley for an eGalley of this title.
Thanks to NetGalley for an eGalley of this title.
December 10, 2025
I absolutely loved this story. It had the perfect blend of mystery, suspense, and intrigue. Both storylines were engaging on their own, and the author wove them together seamlessly. I especially enjoyed the background story of the main female characters—honestly, I would have loved even more about them. I found myself stopping at each new plot twist to think about what just happened, and how it would impact the rest of the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for this ARC.
December 10, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley for this advance reader copy in exchange for a review.
If you have never read a Janie Chang book, this is one you might try - dark and atmospheric, this historical fiction is set in old Shanghai and is full of intrigue.
I personally am not a gothic reader, so this one is filed under 'like' for me, but did not set my imaginations ablaze.
I have enjoyed Ms Chang's works in the past though, especially her collaborations with Kate Quinn.
3*
If you have never read a Janie Chang book, this is one you might try - dark and atmospheric, this historical fiction is set in old Shanghai and is full of intrigue.
I personally am not a gothic reader, so this one is filed under 'like' for me, but did not set my imaginations ablaze.
I have enjoyed Ms Chang's works in the past though, especially her collaborations with Kate Quinn.
3*
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love the gothic genre, especially when it centers round a spooky manor and celestial beings. This tale was unusual with its Chinese setting. Janie Chang did an excellent job of keeping true to the gothic genre while embracing Chinese culture and heritage. The sense of dread pervaded every page with the constant grey skies and sinister stories building to an epic conclusion.
Brilliantly written with wonderful full bodied characters, a real treat to read.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
Brilliantly written with wonderful full bodied characters, a real treat to read.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Such a compelling read! I was captivated by the story from start to finish, it was haunting, thrilling, and beautiful.
A truly gothic historical fiction laces with mystery. The details are well thought out and I was on the edge of my seat as the story progressed. I was fascinated by the interwoven stories of Lisan Liu and Caroline Stanton.
The scenery is incredibly descriptive, and the plot is rich. I absolutely loved The Fourth Princess and would highly recommend it.
A truly gothic historical fiction laces with mystery. The details are well thought out and I was on the edge of my seat as the story progressed. I was fascinated by the interwoven stories of Lisan Liu and Caroline Stanton.
The scenery is incredibly descriptive, and the plot is rich. I absolutely loved The Fourth Princess and would highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This historical fiction is set in 1911 Shanghai, set in a world filled with family secrets and rooted in the traditional sense of a gothic novel, with eeriness, secrets, a decaying mansion and a nontraditional setting.
Pacing of the book was well done, with a thrilling level of suspense. Reading the author's notes at the end of the book is really essential to add an extra level to the novel overall.
3.5 stars
Pacing of the book was well done, with a thrilling level of suspense. Reading the author's notes at the end of the book is really essential to add an extra level to the novel overall.
3.5 stars
October 23, 2025
The Fourth Princess is a deliciously gothic tale—evocative, propulsive, and impossible to put down. Set against the backdrop of a mysterious old Shanghai mansion that is as fascinating as it is haunting, two women fight to make their way in a world weighted by secrets. Chang delivers a beautifully written story, rich with flawless historical detail and lingering atmosphere.
November 10, 2025
I was very excited to receive an advanced reader copy of this book. The gothic setting of Shanghai in the 1900s was such an interesting backdrop. As the mystery unraveled, I stayed on the edge of my set, never able to surmise what would be coming next. This was first book I have read by this author and I am eager to read more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a free DRC of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. I have read other books by Janie Chang before and enjoyed them. She is a good storyteller and writer. The idea of a missing princess was intriguing. There are some ghosts and mysteries throughout the book. There is a twist near the end that I wasn't really expecting. I would recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved this cleverly written book! This is a gothic novel with elements of the history of China woven in. There is so much mystery and atmosphere and I couldn't get enough of the plot twists and layered mysteries.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy
I was transported to 1911, Shanghai, for just a little while. As my first book of the year this was definitely the right choice!
So many twists and turns I had trouble putting it down. My first fiction book in a year…. The year off to a good start!
4.5⭐️
So many twists and turns I had trouble putting it down. My first fiction book in a year…. The year off to a good start!
4.5⭐️
October 6, 2025
A classic gothic novel (not gothic romance), set in China rather than Europe. Gripping and atmospheric. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2025
Although not grabbed immediately by the tale, I soon found myself engrossed with this story of love, loss, war, and deception.
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