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Hong Kong, 1970. The Dragon Head (also known as the Mountain Master) of the Fanling Triad has died and there is a struggle to replace him among senior members of the gang. Normally, the Deputy Mountain Master is next in line, but this one is weak and ineffectual and has only survived because of the protection of the Dragon Head. Up to this point, the Fanling Triad has operated in relative isolation from neighbouring gangs, but the Dragon Head’s death has drawn attention to the area — and to its wealth. Other gangs start to make threatening moves and it’s obvious to the senior members of the Fanling Triad that they need a leader who can fend off the threats, unite the membership, and maintain their prosperity. There are several candidates. The least conspicuous is the White Paper Fan, their young administrator. His name is Chow Tung, but many of those who work with him already refer to him as “Uncle” . . .
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 22, 2019
48 people are currently reading
178 people want to read
About the author
Ian Hamilton
27 books351 followersIan Hamilton has been a journalist, a senior executive with the federal government, a diplomat, and a businessman with international links. He has written for several magazines and newspapers in Canada and the U.S., including Maclean's, Boston Magazine, Saturday Night, Regina Leader Post, Calgary Albertan, and the Calgary Herald. His nonfiction book, The Children's Crusade, was a Canadian Book of the Month Club selection.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
May 19, 2020
This trilogy began as an aside to the long-running Ava Lee series by Ian Hamilton. Ava Lee, you will remember, was mentored by a much-older man called Uncle who wasn’t a relative but who became closer than blood. Before he died, they worked together collecting debts around Asia. Later she learned he held the highest-ranking post in a Hong Kong triad, as Mountain Master.
Earlier in the Ava Lee series we were treated to Uncle’s passing, replete with noisy, atonal bands playing discordantly at his funeral march. The detail in that description was lovingly crafted, introducing us to a lively, diverse triad scene that we sense has been something of a fascination for Hamilton. We revisit in greater detail here since this title begins with the death of the Mountain Master who preceded Uncle in the role.
For those readers who have despaired of office politics, this book may bring on a kind of PTSD. Triad life appears to be office politics with machetes and sub-machine guns. The leadership team all have very cool monikers, like White Paper Fan, Red Pole, and Straw Sandal, all of which operate under the Deputy Mountain Master, the Vanguard, and the Incense Master. They don’t sound scary.
This trilogy begins with Uncle Chow Tung leaving mainland China with his financée in 1959 and then jumps to 1969 where the action of this novel takes place. The action in the follow-on books appear to be spaced by a decade. Next up is Foresight.
Earlier in the Ava Lee series we were treated to Uncle’s passing, replete with noisy, atonal bands playing discordantly at his funeral march. The detail in that description was lovingly crafted, introducing us to a lively, diverse triad scene that we sense has been something of a fascination for Hamilton. We revisit in greater detail here since this title begins with the death of the Mountain Master who preceded Uncle in the role.
For those readers who have despaired of office politics, this book may bring on a kind of PTSD. Triad life appears to be office politics with machetes and sub-machine guns. The leadership team all have very cool monikers, like White Paper Fan, Red Pole, and Straw Sandal, all of which operate under the Deputy Mountain Master, the Vanguard, and the Incense Master. They don’t sound scary.
This trilogy begins with Uncle Chow Tung leaving mainland China with his financée in 1959 and then jumps to 1969 where the action of this novel takes place. The action in the follow-on books appear to be spaced by a decade. Next up is Foresight.
November 25, 2019
Fans of Hamilton's Ava Lee series should revel that he has started a trilogy about her mentor Uncle's rise to head of a triad. Fate, the first book tells the story of his daring swim from the mainland, where he suffers a horrific loss. The leader of his Fanling triad (the Mountain Master) is run over by a truck, in what appears to be an accident, requiring a new leader. Normally, the Deputy assumes the role, but Uncle is worried about his abilities and seeks an alternative, requesting an election. Competing gangs start to make threatening moves, especially Fanling's lucrative gambling business, and the senior members of the Fanling triad know they need a strong leader. When things get out of hand, and his preferred candidate declines to challenge the Deputy, Uncle (a/k/a Chow Tung), a young administrator must take bold and necessary action to protect the Fanling triad when the Deputy is absent. He is wise beyond his years and many triad members address him as “Uncle,” a sign of substantial respect. Looking forward to the sequel in 2020.
February 10, 2019
Uncle Chow--the rise of a mega force!
How could I resist another series by the creator of Ava Lee, the forensic accountant, and one of my favorite, contemporary mystery characters?
What I didn't realize was that I'd be so fascinated by Uncle Chow Tung's story.
We first meet him in the Ava Lee novels and always there's been something different about him. And this series explains it. How the young man from communist China becomes a leading triad figure.
Set in the 1970's in Hong Kong, Chow Tung is the accountant (the White Fan) for the Fanling Triad. The tension builds when the Dragon Head of the Fanling Triad is killed in a hit and run accident. A new Mountain Master is to be appointed. Chow calls for an election as per the triad's rules. He sees the next in line as weak and ineffectual and is concerned. So we have an internal power struggle, with other triad's poised for action and the mystery of who is behind the death of the Dragon Head.
Hamilton's description of the triad rituals is fascinating. The rules and regulations and ways of doing things have a strict order and coherence.
Uncle (as even now Chow is called) is shown as a thoughtful and precise man who uses his intelligence to bring about calm, and focused on increasing the triad interests.
I found Chows talks with his dead loved one poignant and instructive into who Chow is.
A fascinating journey into the rise of the man known as Uncle that will continues with the looked for next in the series.
I'm hooked!
A House of Anansi Press ARC via NetGalley
How could I resist another series by the creator of Ava Lee, the forensic accountant, and one of my favorite, contemporary mystery characters?
What I didn't realize was that I'd be so fascinated by Uncle Chow Tung's story.
We first meet him in the Ava Lee novels and always there's been something different about him. And this series explains it. How the young man from communist China becomes a leading triad figure.
Set in the 1970's in Hong Kong, Chow Tung is the accountant (the White Fan) for the Fanling Triad. The tension builds when the Dragon Head of the Fanling Triad is killed in a hit and run accident. A new Mountain Master is to be appointed. Chow calls for an election as per the triad's rules. He sees the next in line as weak and ineffectual and is concerned. So we have an internal power struggle, with other triad's poised for action and the mystery of who is behind the death of the Dragon Head.
Hamilton's description of the triad rituals is fascinating. The rules and regulations and ways of doing things have a strict order and coherence.
Uncle (as even now Chow is called) is shown as a thoughtful and precise man who uses his intelligence to bring about calm, and focused on increasing the triad interests.
I found Chows talks with his dead loved one poignant and instructive into who Chow is.
A fascinating journey into the rise of the man known as Uncle that will continues with the looked for next in the series.
I'm hooked!
A House of Anansi Press ARC via NetGalley
February 13, 2019
If the Ava Lee series wasn’t enough now Hamilton has started a trilogy on her beloved mentor, Uncle. All of the books are alliterative with F: fate, foresight, and fortune.
This story quickly moves from his escape on a raft from Communist China in 1959 and the loss of the love of his life in the attempt to 1969 and his life as a young and promising officer in a Hong Kong gang. Uncle is mature and poised beyond his years. Circumspect as the gang’s white paper fan or administrator he has increased revenue by innovation and is respected by seniors and subordinates.
His family is the gang and he always puts it ahead of his personal interests.
Life throws him an opportunity with the death of the gang’s leader or mountain master who is the victim of a hit and run. Accident or murder? And so starts a power play within the gang for succession. Uncle is too junior but he doesn’t like the deputy who is change resistant. Rather than an automatic assumption of command he lobbies for an election with each of the gang’s 162 members casting a private ballot.
Hamilton immerses the reader in Uncle’s head as he talks to his long dead soulmate debating courses of action. We go to Uncle’s favorite restaurants and the racetrack. Gambling on horses is Uncle’s passion and he brings the same meticulousness and good judgment that characterize his admin duties. The power play is intense with lots of action and Byzantine twists. Who knew gang politics could be page turning? Uncle is the right man at the right time. He’s a gangster with an ethical bent and not a man to back down.
Another great read from Hamilton. What a TV series Uncle and Ava would make!
This story quickly moves from his escape on a raft from Communist China in 1959 and the loss of the love of his life in the attempt to 1969 and his life as a young and promising officer in a Hong Kong gang. Uncle is mature and poised beyond his years. Circumspect as the gang’s white paper fan or administrator he has increased revenue by innovation and is respected by seniors and subordinates.
His family is the gang and he always puts it ahead of his personal interests.
Life throws him an opportunity with the death of the gang’s leader or mountain master who is the victim of a hit and run. Accident or murder? And so starts a power play within the gang for succession. Uncle is too junior but he doesn’t like the deputy who is change resistant. Rather than an automatic assumption of command he lobbies for an election with each of the gang’s 162 members casting a private ballot.
Hamilton immerses the reader in Uncle’s head as he talks to his long dead soulmate debating courses of action. We go to Uncle’s favorite restaurants and the racetrack. Gambling on horses is Uncle’s passion and he brings the same meticulousness and good judgment that characterize his admin duties. The power play is intense with lots of action and Byzantine twists. Who knew gang politics could be page turning? Uncle is the right man at the right time. He’s a gangster with an ethical bent and not a man to back down.
Another great read from Hamilton. What a TV series Uncle and Ava would make!
January 31, 2019
Ready for the next instalment. These books give me such joy. So great finding out the origin/background story of Uncle
February 16, 2019
2019 is the year of my reading and loving Ian Hamilton. This book shows us the early years of Uncle, when he was in the triad.
I've always love the character of Uncle. He's steady, dependable, and loyal. But he also has his own moral code. He's tough in a fight but smart enough to avoid it if possible. We also get to see some backstory of him escaping China and what happened to him going to Hong Kong. As mentioned in one of the earlier Ava Lee novels, he swam from China to Hong Kong. Coincidentally, I recently discovered an elderly friend of the family lost a relative who drowned trying to swim to Hong Kong. This would've been the same time as Uncle's swim. This adds a personal flavour to the story.
I was happy when the author's note at the end states that this is book#1 of a trilogy. Definitely will be awaiting books #2 & #3.
I've always love the character of Uncle. He's steady, dependable, and loyal. But he also has his own moral code. He's tough in a fight but smart enough to avoid it if possible. We also get to see some backstory of him escaping China and what happened to him going to Hong Kong. As mentioned in one of the earlier Ava Lee novels, he swam from China to Hong Kong. Coincidentally, I recently discovered an elderly friend of the family lost a relative who drowned trying to swim to Hong Kong. This would've been the same time as Uncle's swim. This adds a personal flavour to the story.
I was happy when the author's note at the end states that this is book#1 of a trilogy. Definitely will be awaiting books #2 & #3.
June 1, 2020
Ian Hamilton is a master at pacing - have I said this before? The story is not exactly facinating, not the colour or texture of the Ava Lee novels, but still, a ride, albeit without the scenery.
May 30, 2020
The first in a series of books providing Uncle's backstory, this was a pretty dull read. Great start with a prologue detailing his daring escape from Mao's China, it then jumps forward 10-12 years where Uncle is now a respected financial leader in the local Triad. The Mountain Master dies (under suspicious circumstances) and the deputy Mountain Master is a weak candidate. 80% of the book is the plodding political machinations of who should be the next Triad leader, and it's no surprise how this one ends. Hopefully the next one will have more action.
June 3, 2020
This book is apparently a prequel to a series I'm not familiar with; it caught my eye because it's set in Hong Kong, a place that has fascinated me for a long time. Hamilton's Ava Lee series features a forensic accountant in Hong Kong; an important character in that series is Uncle Chow Tung, the head of one of the Hong Kong triads. This book, set in 1969, presents his back story.
The triads are the Chinese manifestation of something that exists in every culture: the organized criminal gang whose function is to run the vice rackets. Outline the plot of this novel, and it could be set just about anywhere. It's essentially about the succession struggle in a gang when the long-time leader dies unexpectedly. One of the young Turks (a young Uncle Chow Tung) wants to move the gang into the modern age with new moneymaking ideas, and he favors one of his associates over the consensus successor. When the latter is brazenly gunned down at the departed leader's funeral, it becomes apparent that another triad has designs on their territory, and things get complicated.
So, nothing startlingly new about the story, but the interest lies in the details. Hong Kong is a unique place, Chinese but in a distinctive way, and Hamilton obviously knows the territory. We learn how a triad is structured, the types of rackets it runs, how it manages its relations with other triads and with the police. We see what made Chow Tung the man he is (the book opens with his escape from a China ravaged by Mao's Great Leap Forward). Hamilton makes him a sympathetic character, favoring gambling over the more exploitative protection rackets, but also ruthless enough to survive and prosper in a world ruled by force. The story is told in a straightforward, unadorned style, perfectly reflecting Uncle Chow Tung's phlegmatic disposition.
An entertaining read for anyone interested in organized crime, Hong Kong, or both.
The triads are the Chinese manifestation of something that exists in every culture: the organized criminal gang whose function is to run the vice rackets. Outline the plot of this novel, and it could be set just about anywhere. It's essentially about the succession struggle in a gang when the long-time leader dies unexpectedly. One of the young Turks (a young Uncle Chow Tung) wants to move the gang into the modern age with new moneymaking ideas, and he favors one of his associates over the consensus successor. When the latter is brazenly gunned down at the departed leader's funeral, it becomes apparent that another triad has designs on their territory, and things get complicated.
So, nothing startlingly new about the story, but the interest lies in the details. Hong Kong is a unique place, Chinese but in a distinctive way, and Hamilton obviously knows the territory. We learn how a triad is structured, the types of rackets it runs, how it manages its relations with other triads and with the police. We see what made Chow Tung the man he is (the book opens with his escape from a China ravaged by Mao's Great Leap Forward). Hamilton makes him a sympathetic character, favoring gambling over the more exploitative protection rackets, but also ruthless enough to survive and prosper in a world ruled by force. The story is told in a straightforward, unadorned style, perfectly reflecting Uncle Chow Tung's phlegmatic disposition.
An entertaining read for anyone interested in organized crime, Hong Kong, or both.
December 3, 2018
Uncle Chow Tung book #1
This new series takes us back in time when Chow Tung left China for Hong Kong as a nobody and became the Dragon Head of the Fanling Triad after the death of their master.
If you haven’t read the Eva Lee series by this author you may wonder why is he giving us this story but if you are a fan you will appreciate knowing where Uncle had his roots and how he became such a revered leader who played an important role till his death in “The Eva Lee Mysteries” series. This new series is an excellent spin off.
Mr. Hamilton seems to know quite a lot about the Triad’s hierarchy and how its structure works. In a spin of his own the mystery brings to life the struggle to replace the Mountain Master after he was killed in a traffic accident. Normally the Deputy is the next in line but others have someone and other things in mind….
After a short introduction we are fast plunged into the action and it doesn’t take long before knowing that Chow known as Uncle is the lead that could fend off the threats and unite the membership…..By the end Uncle is elected Dragon Head…..The mystery is slow moving even with the threatening moves from the other gangs but Mr. Hamilton knows how to pull us in drop by drop into an exciting saga that will make you flip pages till the very end.
As always, the story is well presented, the smooth narration is intercepted by strong dialogues. The characterization is excellent and I love how each one played their roles in such an entertaining manner. No doubts I am a huge fan of this author.
I received this ARC from the publisher House of Anansi via NetGalleys for my thoughts.
This new series takes us back in time when Chow Tung left China for Hong Kong as a nobody and became the Dragon Head of the Fanling Triad after the death of their master.
If you haven’t read the Eva Lee series by this author you may wonder why is he giving us this story but if you are a fan you will appreciate knowing where Uncle had his roots and how he became such a revered leader who played an important role till his death in “The Eva Lee Mysteries” series. This new series is an excellent spin off.
Mr. Hamilton seems to know quite a lot about the Triad’s hierarchy and how its structure works. In a spin of his own the mystery brings to life the struggle to replace the Mountain Master after he was killed in a traffic accident. Normally the Deputy is the next in line but others have someone and other things in mind….
After a short introduction we are fast plunged into the action and it doesn’t take long before knowing that Chow known as Uncle is the lead that could fend off the threats and unite the membership…..By the end Uncle is elected Dragon Head…..The mystery is slow moving even with the threatening moves from the other gangs but Mr. Hamilton knows how to pull us in drop by drop into an exciting saga that will make you flip pages till the very end.
As always, the story is well presented, the smooth narration is intercepted by strong dialogues. The characterization is excellent and I love how each one played their roles in such an entertaining manner. No doubts I am a huge fan of this author.
I received this ARC from the publisher House of Anansi via NetGalleys for my thoughts.
February 27, 2019
叔叔 (shūshu) Uncle Begins
Review of the House of Anansi Spiderline 2019 paperback
Fate is the first volume of a projected Uncle Chow prequel trilogy which takes place in the decades before Uncle met forensic accountant Ava Lee in The Dragon Head of Hong Kong (collected in The Water Rat of Wanchai + The Dragon Head of Hong Kong). Various parts of Uncle's past are filled in with back story here including his escape from Communist China in 1959 through to his initial rise in a smaller Triad organization in the New Territories zone of Hong Kong in 1969. Author Ian Hamilton has evidently already sketched out the rough plan of the trilogy as House of Anansi/Spiderline includes the initial chapter of volume 2 Foresight (expected release January 2020) in this current volume and even teases the covers for it and volume 3 Fortune (expected release January 2021) as well.
The Ava Lee novels have made a steady progression from the early debt collection years to Ava's more recent conflicts with corporate entities in the worlds of fashion and film. That has also meant a gradual slide into a façade of respectability. The Uncle prequels promise a return to the conflict of the streets and Fate satisfies very well in showing how Uncle gradually built up the loyalty and respect of his peers in the Triads. I have no idea what research Ian Hamilton did for this book, but the atmosphere, the habits, the rituals etc. feel completely authentic (as they do in the Ava Lee books as well). The only downside here is that only 3 books seem to be currently planned. Hopefully that may yet change.
Review of the House of Anansi Spiderline 2019 paperback
Fate is the first volume of a projected Uncle Chow prequel trilogy which takes place in the decades before Uncle met forensic accountant Ava Lee in The Dragon Head of Hong Kong (collected in The Water Rat of Wanchai + The Dragon Head of Hong Kong). Various parts of Uncle's past are filled in with back story here including his escape from Communist China in 1959 through to his initial rise in a smaller Triad organization in the New Territories zone of Hong Kong in 1969. Author Ian Hamilton has evidently already sketched out the rough plan of the trilogy as House of Anansi/Spiderline includes the initial chapter of volume 2 Foresight (expected release January 2020) in this current volume and even teases the covers for it and volume 3 Fortune (expected release January 2021) as well.
The Ava Lee novels have made a steady progression from the early debt collection years to Ava's more recent conflicts with corporate entities in the worlds of fashion and film. That has also meant a gradual slide into a façade of respectability. The Uncle prequels promise a return to the conflict of the streets and Fate satisfies very well in showing how Uncle gradually built up the loyalty and respect of his peers in the Triads. I have no idea what research Ian Hamilton did for this book, but the atmosphere, the habits, the rituals etc. feel completely authentic (as they do in the Ava Lee books as well). The only downside here is that only 3 books seem to be currently planned. Hopefully that may yet change.
January 27, 2019
I love this 'origin' story. I enjoyed Uncle's character and am enjoying getting to know him better.
July 2, 2019
A good book presenting Uncle Chow Tung in the early years. A little predictable, but still an enjoyable read for those invested in the series. Recommended.
June 15, 2019
If you are a fan of Ian Hamilton's Ana Lee books you should read this. The mysterious Uncle's past is revealed plus the workings of the Tongs. Amazing
June 23, 2019
Like The Godfather but with Hong Kong Triads.
Started off slow, and I almost DNF'd it a couple of times. Partly because I realize I'm not all that interested in Triad stories in general, but also partly because there's a LOT of information dumping. I can't remember if it's the same with the Ava books, but the plot was often paused for a mini lecture about cultural context or history. The tone was also pretty detached, which is par for the course in Hamilton's books and also in this type of crime fiction, but with the info dumping, it made it more challenging for me to get into the story.
The action and pace picks up significantly about 3/4 through, after the funeral, and I was hooked by Uncle's plotting to unmask the bad guy.
Started off slow, and I almost DNF'd it a couple of times. Partly because I realize I'm not all that interested in Triad stories in general, but also partly because there's a LOT of information dumping. I can't remember if it's the same with the Ava books, but the plot was often paused for a mini lecture about cultural context or history. The tone was also pretty detached, which is par for the course in Hamilton's books and also in this type of crime fiction, but with the info dumping, it made it more challenging for me to get into the story.
The action and pace picks up significantly about 3/4 through, after the funeral, and I was hooked by Uncle's plotting to unmask the bad guy.
October 20, 2019
For fans of Hamilton’s Ava Lee series, this is the first of a series of books following the origin story of Ava’s mentor, “Uncle” Chow Tung. It follows his escape from Mao’s China by swimming across the bay to Hong Kong after the failure of the Great Leap Forward, to his adoption of the Fanling Triad as his family. The story is pretty predictable, and is far less action-packed than the average Ava Lee novel. For fans who need to know though, it’s probably a must read.
March 27, 2019
Pleased to see a novel featuring Uncle. Not as intense, thrilling or climatic as expected but interesting tale to show the rise of Uncle in the world of the Triads.
June 24, 2019
3.5 stars, quick easy read.
August 20, 2019
Not bad maybe 3.5. It takes a while to get to see Uncle's talent as an enforcer, negotiator and schemer.
October 16, 2019
Devoured it as I do with all Ava Lee.
November 14, 2019
I enjoyed this, as I enjoyed the back story of Uncle, but it didn’t grab me as much as the Ava Lee novels. That said, I’ll probably read the 2nd and 3rd instalments so I know the whole story.
February 26, 2019
“Boring”
This is the story of Chow Tung, known to friends as “Uncle”, a form of respect, though he’s still a fairly young man in his thirties. His position in the Fanling triads is that of White Paper Fan because he’s good with numbers. It chronicles his escape from communist China to Hong Kong, then jumps ahead a decade when the Mountain Master of the Fanling triads is killed by a hit & run driver, leaving their leadership vacant. Basically the story follows the trouble of electing a new leader. How boring can you get?
Readers of Ian Hamilton have been familiar with Uncle through the Ava Lee series, about a Chinese/Canadian girl who follows the money in crooked deals leaving someone needing her help. One of her cases came to the attention of Uncle, and he uses his power to assist her. The early stories of Ava Lee were topnotch and interesting mysteries. But the last couple of Ava Lee stories were below par for the author, and left the reader less satisfied in her, and for some reason the author has decided to feature Uncle in his own stories. Unfortunately, this first entry was boring. We’re talking triads, and criminal gangs in Hong Kong, so you would think there’d be lots of action. There isn’t. When there is action, there’s really no tension in the setting. We do learn the command structure of the triads, and even an overly long funeral for one of the leaders. We know from the beginning that Uncle will end up as the new Mountain Master, even though he’s trying to put someone else in the office. It’s Uncle that sees the problems and sets things on the right course, so he’s already performing as their leader. If you’re interested in the structure of the triad gangsters, this book will help you. Although I would suggest you read the early Ava Lee stories for that. If you’re looking for a good action novel, it isn’t here. Again, those early Ava Lee entries are your best bet.
This is the story of Chow Tung, known to friends as “Uncle”, a form of respect, though he’s still a fairly young man in his thirties. His position in the Fanling triads is that of White Paper Fan because he’s good with numbers. It chronicles his escape from communist China to Hong Kong, then jumps ahead a decade when the Mountain Master of the Fanling triads is killed by a hit & run driver, leaving their leadership vacant. Basically the story follows the trouble of electing a new leader. How boring can you get?
Readers of Ian Hamilton have been familiar with Uncle through the Ava Lee series, about a Chinese/Canadian girl who follows the money in crooked deals leaving someone needing her help. One of her cases came to the attention of Uncle, and he uses his power to assist her. The early stories of Ava Lee were topnotch and interesting mysteries. But the last couple of Ava Lee stories were below par for the author, and left the reader less satisfied in her, and for some reason the author has decided to feature Uncle in his own stories. Unfortunately, this first entry was boring. We’re talking triads, and criminal gangs in Hong Kong, so you would think there’d be lots of action. There isn’t. When there is action, there’s really no tension in the setting. We do learn the command structure of the triads, and even an overly long funeral for one of the leaders. We know from the beginning that Uncle will end up as the new Mountain Master, even though he’s trying to put someone else in the office. It’s Uncle that sees the problems and sets things on the right course, so he’s already performing as their leader. If you’re interested in the structure of the triad gangsters, this book will help you. Although I would suggest you read the early Ava Lee stories for that. If you’re looking for a good action novel, it isn’t here. Again, those early Ava Lee entries are your best bet.
January 4, 2019
"Fate" is an introduction to the man who is known simply as Uncle in the Ava Lee crime novels by the same author. In June 1959, Uncle was known as Chow Tung when he and his fiance Lin Gui-San gathered together a small group of other young Chinese to escape from the People's Republic of China mainland to British Hong Kong. They needed to swim across a 4 km wide channel of polluted water beset with adverse weather and other dangers. Most of the group survived the ordeal and reached Hong Kong, but Gui-San did not. With the result that Chow arrives in Hong Kong without any family and his fellow surviving escapees are his sole support.
Ten years later, Uncle is well-established as a leader in the Fanling triad gang. As a substitute for his mainland family killed in Mao's disastrous Great Leap Forward and the loss of Gui-San, Uncle adopted the gang as his family and advanced through its ranks. By 1969 he is their de facto chief financial officer, with the title: "White Paper Fan". Uncle has a progressive agenda to modernize and legitimize the triad's business to lower its profile in the eyes of the police. The sudden death of Gao, the triad leader, or "Mountain Master ", under suspicious circumstances on the day of an important business meeting to decide on whether to accept Uncle's plan for a new business venture triggers a struggle to succeed Gao. In the recent past, the Deputy Mountain Master has been automatically appointed to the head job. This convention has been followed even though there is an election process in which each gang member casts a vote to elect the gang's Mountain Master. Uncle convinces the gang leaders to hold an election for Gao's replacement. What follows is a fierce behind-the-scenes competition for the top job. Things are further complicated when rumours circulate that a neighbouring triad wants to take over the Fanling triad. The story moves briskly as the election date nears and the other gang makes its move on the Fanling gang. Uncle and his allies take a leading role in the pushback.
One of the strengths of the book is the portrayal of the triad gang and its culture. While it is a criminal organization, the triad has a strict code of conduct which is rigidly applied. Those wanting to succeed Gao are desperately afraid of offending their colleagues; a losing candidate will be ostracized (or worse) by the successful winner and his supporters. A great sense of the triad way-of-life makes this a good story. Uncle's character is well-developed too, and he is an attractive protagonist, despite being a criminal gang leader. It is an impressive debut for these reasons and is an enjoyable read with no significant drawbacks. It's easy to highly recommend it.
I received my review copy from the House of Anansi Press via Netgalley. The comments are my own.
Ten years later, Uncle is well-established as a leader in the Fanling triad gang. As a substitute for his mainland family killed in Mao's disastrous Great Leap Forward and the loss of Gui-San, Uncle adopted the gang as his family and advanced through its ranks. By 1969 he is their de facto chief financial officer, with the title: "White Paper Fan". Uncle has a progressive agenda to modernize and legitimize the triad's business to lower its profile in the eyes of the police. The sudden death of Gao, the triad leader, or "Mountain Master ", under suspicious circumstances on the day of an important business meeting to decide on whether to accept Uncle's plan for a new business venture triggers a struggle to succeed Gao. In the recent past, the Deputy Mountain Master has been automatically appointed to the head job. This convention has been followed even though there is an election process in which each gang member casts a vote to elect the gang's Mountain Master. Uncle convinces the gang leaders to hold an election for Gao's replacement. What follows is a fierce behind-the-scenes competition for the top job. Things are further complicated when rumours circulate that a neighbouring triad wants to take over the Fanling triad. The story moves briskly as the election date nears and the other gang makes its move on the Fanling gang. Uncle and his allies take a leading role in the pushback.
One of the strengths of the book is the portrayal of the triad gang and its culture. While it is a criminal organization, the triad has a strict code of conduct which is rigidly applied. Those wanting to succeed Gao are desperately afraid of offending their colleagues; a losing candidate will be ostracized (or worse) by the successful winner and his supporters. A great sense of the triad way-of-life makes this a good story. Uncle's character is well-developed too, and he is an attractive protagonist, despite being a criminal gang leader. It is an impressive debut for these reasons and is an enjoyable read with no significant drawbacks. It's easy to highly recommend it.
I received my review copy from the House of Anansi Press via Netgalley. The comments are my own.
May 19, 2019
Instantly hooked. I started reading and hated having to put the book down.
I enjoyed reading Fate as I enjoyed reading the Eva Lee books. Fate explores who Uncle is, where he came from, his decisions in the present, and how the past influenced his decisions. The book gave better understanding of the triad structure and relationship to other triads in Ian Hamilton's books - something only hinted at in the Eva Lee books. The beginning of Fate tied very well with the ending and generated a lot of sympathy for Uncle. Even though I foresaw some of the plot swerves, there were still plenty of surprises that kept me on my toes, as well as the desperate need to find out who was behind the deaths of Fanling triad members. When I wasn't reading, the plot and possible outcomes were still bouncing around in my head. The writing carried plot propelling energy right from the start, contained scene painting details, and made relevant references to history, culture, and traditions.
I initially picked this book up because the nearest library branch had the book on the display shelf, along with The Goddess of Yantai (immediately recognized by the distinctive cover design). I thoroughly enjoyed Fate and look forward to reading the next book, Foresight.
I enjoyed reading Fate as I enjoyed reading the Eva Lee books. Fate explores who Uncle is, where he came from, his decisions in the present, and how the past influenced his decisions. The book gave better understanding of the triad structure and relationship to other triads in Ian Hamilton's books - something only hinted at in the Eva Lee books. The beginning of Fate tied very well with the ending and generated a lot of sympathy for Uncle. Even though I foresaw some of the plot swerves, there were still plenty of surprises that kept me on my toes, as well as the desperate need to find out who was behind the deaths of Fanling triad members. When I wasn't reading, the plot and possible outcomes were still bouncing around in my head. The writing carried plot propelling energy right from the start, contained scene painting details, and made relevant references to history, culture, and traditions.
I initially picked this book up because the nearest library branch had the book on the display shelf, along with The Goddess of Yantai (immediately recognized by the distinctive cover design). I thoroughly enjoyed Fate and look forward to reading the next book, Foresight.
February 11, 2020
I have finally finished this book after taking a bit of a break from reading to stay on track with the demands of work. I must say that the idea of writing a book that focussed on such a loved character of the Ava Lee series was an amazing idea. I love getting to know all about such an important character who isn't really explored much in the first series.
This story focusses on how uncle got to where he was. The begin on the book was a long drawn out read and I was surprised with this. It dragged on in the beginning, however looking back at that it almost put the reader into the place of Uncle and his long journey through the water. There was a lot of emotion in this book that I did not expect from Ian. He typically doesn't write with so much emotion within his characters. This allowed me to see Uncle from a different perspective and also to find out how all the connections he had were made.
I do have to say that the ending was not completely unexpected but was still a great read in order to find out more of Uncle's backstory. I am excited to read the next one which just recently came out.
This story focusses on how uncle got to where he was. The begin on the book was a long drawn out read and I was surprised with this. It dragged on in the beginning, however looking back at that it almost put the reader into the place of Uncle and his long journey through the water. There was a lot of emotion in this book that I did not expect from Ian. He typically doesn't write with so much emotion within his characters. This allowed me to see Uncle from a different perspective and also to find out how all the connections he had were made.
I do have to say that the ending was not completely unexpected but was still a great read in order to find out more of Uncle's backstory. I am excited to read the next one which just recently came out.
February 7, 2019
After writing multiple books in the Ava Lee series, Ava's mentor, "Uncle" Chow Tung gets his own story set in 1970 Hong Kong. Gao, the Mountain Master (head) of the Fanling Triad is killed by a hit-and-run driver. Normally, the Deputy Mountain Master is next in line, but Ma is weak and ineffectual. Chow works as the White Paper Fan, the gang's young administrator. As other gangs threaten to move in, the Fanling Triad needs a leader who can fend off the threats, unite the membership, and maintain their prosperity. The executive decides on a rare election where all 162 members will vote on the new Mountain Master. But the wake and funeral for Gao take first priority.
This was a good origin story for Uncle and nicely show how the young administrator started his rapid rise to leadership amongst the Hong Kong Triads and his men.
I received an eARC via Netgalley and the House of Anansi Press/Spiderline with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and provided this review.
This was a good origin story for Uncle and nicely show how the young administrator started his rapid rise to leadership amongst the Hong Kong Triads and his men.
I received an eARC via Netgalley and the House of Anansi Press/Spiderline with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and provided this review.
October 29, 2023
This is not a book I would have normally read (it was given to me) and I actually quite enjoyed it.
It was the story of Uncle Chow Tung (apparently he is featured in other books). At this point, it is 1969 and he has been 10 years in the Hong Kong area after illegally leaving China (a terrible ordeal - swimming at night with others). He, at age 34, is now the White Paper Fan (Administrator) of a local Triad (gang), in the New Territories, after he had been on the "ground" for a few years. He is smart and savvy and is respected by many.
Shortly after the start of the book, the Gao, his Triad's Mountain Master (leader) is killed...an accident or not. There is a lot of intrigue with Uncle's Triad's executive. The book gives an insight into Triads, their operations, and why they exist. I enjoyed the book for this insight and the story of how Uncle rose because of his astuteness and his very high moral code in the world of Triads.
It was the story of Uncle Chow Tung (apparently he is featured in other books). At this point, it is 1969 and he has been 10 years in the Hong Kong area after illegally leaving China (a terrible ordeal - swimming at night with others). He, at age 34, is now the White Paper Fan (Administrator) of a local Triad (gang), in the New Territories, after he had been on the "ground" for a few years. He is smart and savvy and is respected by many.
Shortly after the start of the book, the Gao, his Triad's Mountain Master (leader) is killed...an accident or not. There is a lot of intrigue with Uncle's Triad's executive. The book gives an insight into Triads, their operations, and why they exist. I enjoyed the book for this insight and the story of how Uncle rose because of his astuteness and his very high moral code in the world of Triads.
April 8, 2019
This is my first Ian Hamilton, I am impressed. The story follows the rise of Uncle Chow Tung as he escapes from Communist China to his rise to the top of his local Hong Kong gang. The main character is beautifully drawn with the right amount of internal dialogue and action. The plot moves quickly, and the dialogue is excellent. Hamilton has a deep knowledge of Hong Kong gangs, or a great imagination, or both, but the storyline of the Fanling triad as it undergoes a leadership transition is believable and interesting. Almost all of the narrative is dedicated to moving the story forward and the secondary characters are as complex as Uncle Chow. Now I am interested in reading the Ava Lee series.
August 31, 2020
This prequel to the Ava Lee series gives us the origin story of Uncle as we know him.
Set in Hong Kong's New Territories, we meet Uncle on the early side of his career as a triad and as always, Hamilton puts you right there in the milieu.
At first I thought this was going to cover ground similar to the movie _Election_ but instead we have somewhat of a character study of Uncle in one of the rare times we see him make a consequential mistake.
I wish the dialogue was a little saltier and more colourful. There are a few curses in the book, but I would have liked to see more nicknames and colloquial metaphors as they are quite common in Hong Kong in general, and in "gu wat jai" stories in particular.
Set in Hong Kong's New Territories, we meet Uncle on the early side of his career as a triad and as always, Hamilton puts you right there in the milieu.
At first I thought this was going to cover ground similar to the movie _Election_ but instead we have somewhat of a character study of Uncle in one of the rare times we see him make a consequential mistake.
I wish the dialogue was a little saltier and more colourful. There are a few curses in the book, but I would have liked to see more nicknames and colloquial metaphors as they are quite common in Hong Kong in general, and in "gu wat jai" stories in particular.
March 15, 2021
I love the Ava Series and really mourned when Uncle died. It was almost hard to keep reading the series even though I really love Ava and her crew, but I soldiered on and have been able to come to terms with the loss of the Uncle character. I was very excited when Ian started this series about Uncle but was reluctant to start reading it when the book first came out for fear that I would not like it. I need not have worried because Ian drug me right in and wowed me totally by the end of the book!! I will definitely be reading the second book in the series and anymore he cares to write. Thank you Ian for the fabulous rides and for helping me get through this damn Pandemic with your wonderful novels!!!!
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