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Inspector Danilov #1
Death In Shanghai
Shanghai, 1928. The body of a blonde is washed up on the Beach of Dead Babies, in the heart of the smog-filled city. Seemingly a suicide, a closer inspection reveals a darker motive: the corpse has been weighed down, it's lower half mutilated...and the Chinese character for 'justice' carved into the chest. The moment Inspector Danilov lays eyes on the dismembered body, he realises that he has an exceptional case on his hands. And when the first body is followed by another, and another, each displaying a new, bloody message, he has no option but face the truth. He is dealing with the worst kind of criminal; someone determined, twisted...and vengeful. Someone who must be caught...whatever the cost. Death in Shanghai is the first novel in M J Lee's Inspector Danilov series, perfect for fans of Philip Kerr.
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First published June 16, 2015
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About the author
M.J. Lee
46 books445 followersMartin has spent most of his adult life writing in one form or another.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
September 3, 2015
This is the first in the Inspector Pyotr Danilov series and is set in Shanghai, 1928. We first meet Danilov, of the Shanghai Municipal Police, when he is called to the discovery of a body on, ‘the Beach of Dead Babies.’ However, the blonde on the beach is not what she first appears and, before long, it becomes apparent that this violent murder is one of a series of brutal killings – becoming more frequent and more audacious.
Inspector Danilov originally comes from Minsk and, having lost his family, lives with the guilt and loneliness. He worked in London before carving out a career in Shanghai, but is resented, and disliked, by many of his colleagues and relies on opium to help him cope with his feelings of depression. When he suggests that a serial killer is stalking the streets of Shanhai, Chief Inspector Boyle is disbelieving. However, with the help of the young Detective Constable Strachan, Danilov sets out to discover who is to blame for the abduction and gruesome murders of a rising count of victims.
This is, at times, quite a violent book – although most of the scenes are imagined, rather than graphic. However, I applaud the author for giving the reader an unusual setting and a great cast of characters. I found Danilov extremely sympathetic and liked the half-Chinese Strachan; so desperate to live up to his dead father’s expectations and always, wisely, with his eye on the next meal. Along with the main characters are a great supporting cast; from the pathologist, Dr Fang, to Danilov’s bullying police colleagues. This is also a great portrait of Shanghai in the 1920’s and the city, at times, almost becomes a character in the story.
This book has been marketed as being similar to Philip Kerr and the Bernie Gunther books are favourites of mine. However, I always feel it is a mistake to compare authors and, frankly, there is no need to compare this novel to another author’s work as it stands quite well alone. This is, hopefully, the start of a long running series featuring Inspector Danilov who, I feel, is also likely to become a favourite character of mine. An excellent, and very promising, mystery. Lastly, I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
Inspector Danilov originally comes from Minsk and, having lost his family, lives with the guilt and loneliness. He worked in London before carving out a career in Shanghai, but is resented, and disliked, by many of his colleagues and relies on opium to help him cope with his feelings of depression. When he suggests that a serial killer is stalking the streets of Shanhai, Chief Inspector Boyle is disbelieving. However, with the help of the young Detective Constable Strachan, Danilov sets out to discover who is to blame for the abduction and gruesome murders of a rising count of victims.
This is, at times, quite a violent book – although most of the scenes are imagined, rather than graphic. However, I applaud the author for giving the reader an unusual setting and a great cast of characters. I found Danilov extremely sympathetic and liked the half-Chinese Strachan; so desperate to live up to his dead father’s expectations and always, wisely, with his eye on the next meal. Along with the main characters are a great supporting cast; from the pathologist, Dr Fang, to Danilov’s bullying police colleagues. This is also a great portrait of Shanghai in the 1920’s and the city, at times, almost becomes a character in the story.
This book has been marketed as being similar to Philip Kerr and the Bernie Gunther books are favourites of mine. However, I always feel it is a mistake to compare authors and, frankly, there is no need to compare this novel to another author’s work as it stands quite well alone. This is, hopefully, the start of a long running series featuring Inspector Danilov who, I feel, is also likely to become a favourite character of mine. An excellent, and very promising, mystery. Lastly, I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
February 7, 2017
I enjoyed this story, it was well paced and had a good plot. It is nothing original in that it does have the stereotypical detective, Inspector Danilov ( loner, problems with his family) and his side kick Strachan, half Chinese, half Scottish, lives at home with his Mum, willing to learn )but I liked them both ! I haven't read about a Russian Detective working in Shanghai in the 1920's and found it entertaining.
September 17, 2015
Solid police procedural set in rarely covered location.
Set in the Shanghai International Settlement, Russian Inspector Danilov is working for the Shanghai Municipal Police, a predominantly British force who policed the British and American Concessions.
It’s worth explaining the origins of the Shanghai International Settlement as it’s an interesting 19th century and early 20th century anomaly.
It originated following the Treaty of Nanking. Under the terms of the treaty, the Chinese city of Shanghai opened to foreign trade. The British, already active in Hong Kong, which had been ceded to them under the Treaty of Nanking, quickly established a settlement.
American and French involvement followed with distinct areas of settlement for the French in the south and the Americans to the north drawn out of the British settlement. The three countries created the Shanghai Municipal Council to serve all their interests, but in 1862, the French concession dropped out of the arrangement. The following year the British and American settlements formally united to create the Shanghai International Settlement.
The book is set in 1928 and the book starts with Danilov’s arrival on the scene of one of a series of brutal killings. A number of interesting characters populate the book which effectively shows the limitation of the police force at that time and the ethnic friction created by the overtly racist views of some of the British population.
Danilov’s background story is an interesting one and certainly provides further subject matter for what appears to be planned as a series of books.
Although compared to Philip Kerr and the Bernie Gunther books I’m not sure that's fair, it’s an entertaining read and bodes well for further stories in the series.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Set in the Shanghai International Settlement, Russian Inspector Danilov is working for the Shanghai Municipal Police, a predominantly British force who policed the British and American Concessions.
It’s worth explaining the origins of the Shanghai International Settlement as it’s an interesting 19th century and early 20th century anomaly.
It originated following the Treaty of Nanking. Under the terms of the treaty, the Chinese city of Shanghai opened to foreign trade. The British, already active in Hong Kong, which had been ceded to them under the Treaty of Nanking, quickly established a settlement.
American and French involvement followed with distinct areas of settlement for the French in the south and the Americans to the north drawn out of the British settlement. The three countries created the Shanghai Municipal Council to serve all their interests, but in 1862, the French concession dropped out of the arrangement. The following year the British and American settlements formally united to create the Shanghai International Settlement.
The book is set in 1928 and the book starts with Danilov’s arrival on the scene of one of a series of brutal killings. A number of interesting characters populate the book which effectively shows the limitation of the police force at that time and the ethnic friction created by the overtly racist views of some of the British population.
Danilov’s background story is an interesting one and certainly provides further subject matter for what appears to be planned as a series of books.
Although compared to Philip Kerr and the Bernie Gunther books I’m not sure that's fair, it’s an entertaining read and bodes well for further stories in the series.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
September 22, 2016
I can't help falling in love with great detective characters. This novel offers two such options - Inspector Danilov, who escaped Russia after the revolution and in the 1920s finds himself employed as a policeman in Shanghai, while trying to find his long-lost family; and Strachan - a detective born to a Chinese mother and Scottish father, who is just starting his career in the Shanghai police. The two only begin to get to know each other in this novel, as by the end of the book they learn to appreciate each other's qualities and to trust one another. The plot itself is less important than the relationship between these and other characters, and I'll just say it revolves around a serial killer who goes on a killing spree in the streets of the city. Beautifully done, moving on to the next one in the series as fast as I can.
August 13, 2017
Death in Shanghai is the first in the Danilov series set in Shanghai in the 1920s. It’s a serial killer by numbers affair, with Inspector Danilov playing Sherlock Holmes (including the close observational detecting and opium addiction), Constable Strachan playing Dr Watson, and the killer playing Moriarty. Danilov is not well liked by his colleagues, who undermine his investigation, and he is still searching for news of his family marooned in Minsk during the Russian revolution. The plot is fairly predictable, the prose is workmanlike, and the sense of place flat, a number of elements with respect to the murders and the police work do not seem to add up, and the epilogue seemed highly unlikely. It’s by no means a terrible read, and there’s plenty of action and twists and turns, rather it felt flat with stereotypical characters and a formulaic plot that failed to captivate.
March 11, 2016
Absolutely loved this book. Fell in love with the non conformist Danilov and his assistant Strachan and really look forward to further adventures with them. The story was full of twists and turns..police bureaucratic frustration, and the sights, sounds, smells of Shanghai were clearly felt. Loved every minute.
February 10, 2016
Death in Shanghai by JM Lee.
I'm going to start of this review by simply saying what a fantastic novel the author JM Lee has created. In all honesty I can say I enjoyed this book immensely. Really this book has it all and more, especially as I believe this is a debut novel.
Set in Shanghai at the end of the 1920's the author starts this story when a body of a young lady is found on the so-called Beach of Dead Babies. As the story quickly progresses it transpires that all is not as it may seem. And with this you will see how the author effortlessly draws you into this tale with some fantastic but not over the top writing. I love how he describes his characters, not just the protagonist Danilov, a Russian Detective with more than a few problems of his own but also the sub characters. Really, they are all wonderfully described and the reader will find it so easy to get a picture of each individual pictured in his brain.
However, it's not just the characters who are well written into a great plot but the setting of a multicultural and vibrant Shanghai too is described to perfection. You really do get a feel for the character of this place. Also It is plain to see that this author has carried out his research well.
All in all this is a great book and I can't see anything less than the five stars it deserves and what’s more, I have got a contender for my best reads of 2016.
I'm going to start of this review by simply saying what a fantastic novel the author JM Lee has created. In all honesty I can say I enjoyed this book immensely. Really this book has it all and more, especially as I believe this is a debut novel.
Set in Shanghai at the end of the 1920's the author starts this story when a body of a young lady is found on the so-called Beach of Dead Babies. As the story quickly progresses it transpires that all is not as it may seem. And with this you will see how the author effortlessly draws you into this tale with some fantastic but not over the top writing. I love how he describes his characters, not just the protagonist Danilov, a Russian Detective with more than a few problems of his own but also the sub characters. Really, they are all wonderfully described and the reader will find it so easy to get a picture of each individual pictured in his brain.
However, it's not just the characters who are well written into a great plot but the setting of a multicultural and vibrant Shanghai too is described to perfection. You really do get a feel for the character of this place. Also It is plain to see that this author has carried out his research well.
All in all this is a great book and I can't see anything less than the five stars it deserves and what’s more, I have got a contender for my best reads of 2016.
May 15, 2016
Well! Where do I start with City of Shadows?! I read this book in one day!!! I haven’t done that for a while, but I just couldn’t stop reading it! City of Shadows is so different to my usual reads, yet it is still the same genre.
The book begins with the murder of the Lee family, and it doesn’t let up pace until the very end. It is a well written story, with great twists and turns in the narrative.
City of Shadows is the second Inspector Danilov novel. I haven’t actually read the first one, Death in Shanghai yet, but it is somewhere on my kindle TBR waiting patiently. I don’t think it’s necessary to have read the first book, but I’m sure it probably helps the reader to understand the characters more if you read in order.
I found Danilov to be a very likeable Inspector. I found myself drawing comparisons to Jo Nesbo’s Harry Hole on more than one occasion. Whether it was the location, or mannerisms, I don’t know, but for me there is definitely echoes of Hole in Danilov.
I think the reason I read City of Shadows so quickly is that it just draws you in immediately. The pace is relentless once the investigation gets going and there is more than enough going on in the periphery that your mind is hungry for the solution.
The book begins with the murder of the Lee family, and it doesn’t let up pace until the very end. It is a well written story, with great twists and turns in the narrative.
City of Shadows is the second Inspector Danilov novel. I haven’t actually read the first one, Death in Shanghai yet, but it is somewhere on my kindle TBR waiting patiently. I don’t think it’s necessary to have read the first book, but I’m sure it probably helps the reader to understand the characters more if you read in order.
I found Danilov to be a very likeable Inspector. I found myself drawing comparisons to Jo Nesbo’s Harry Hole on more than one occasion. Whether it was the location, or mannerisms, I don’t know, but for me there is definitely echoes of Hole in Danilov.
I think the reason I read City of Shadows so quickly is that it just draws you in immediately. The pace is relentless once the investigation gets going and there is more than enough going on in the periphery that your mind is hungry for the solution.
January 14, 2021
A 5* mystery
Based in Shanghai in the 1920’s, M J Lee has written a wonderful mystery. His descriptions of the city life, the development of the characters, the scattering of clues are all masterfully written. I couldn’t put it down and look forward to the next book in the series.
Based in Shanghai in the 1920’s, M J Lee has written a wonderful mystery. His descriptions of the city life, the development of the characters, the scattering of clues are all masterfully written. I couldn’t put it down and look forward to the next book in the series.
December 19, 2015
Shanghai, China. 1928. In a place where opium rules the people, and when serial killers are taboo, a woman's body is found washed off on the beach. Her body is mutilated with Chinese letter, but the main concern of the police is that the woman is white and blond. European, not Chinese. After the first conclusion about some kind of revenge, another mutilated body shows up. Different body, different surrounding, different letter. But still, a letter carved deep into the skin. Is there a possibility that these killings are acts of a serial killer?
Inspector Danilov is in charge for the case. Russian, originally from Minsk, he used to work in Scotland Yard. His Chinese is far from perfect, but his ability to enter into killer's mind is beyond the limits. From the first sight of the dead woman's body, he realises that this is far from lover's revenge. And when another body appears, the idea for a serial killer slowly appears in his mind.
Not so long time ago, Danilov had to leave his family in Minsk. Every day he misses his wife, daughter and son. There's been war back home, a revolution, and his family is lost. He has no information about them, he doesn't know are they dead or alive. Just a small ad in a newspaper gives him hope, that someone will see it and tell him the truth, whatever that is. In the meantime, an opium pipe settled in his apartment helps him to cope with the memories and his loneliness.
Danilov's assistant, Strachan, half Chinese, is a very interesting character. He fights his entire life with the stigma of being half, he is Chinese among the English and English among the Chinese. His partnership with the Russian inspector seems like the best choice because they are both outcasts. His hero figure is his father, a cop who died on duty. He takes care for his mother and does his best to make his dead father proud of him. Strachan is a loyal friend, someone who can be trusted even when trust is questioned.
It is a real refreshment to read my favorite genre of a book set in a different surrounding and different time. The author set the plot in Shanghai, China, in 1928. The main character is Russian, who lives and works in Shanghai and his assistant is half Chinese. There are many international characters here, from the detectives in the police department to the witnesses along the places where victims are found and the victims themselves. The author described Shanghai in 1920-ties perfectly, he captured the image of the city where opium smuggling ruled, where prostitution and sex-change were something you see every day, where some people had distorted sense for justice in the world full of crime. Death in Shanghai is an interesting book, full of speculations, false leads and many turn-overs. Unpredictable, it takes you on a journey in a different place and time and makes you feel the life in a city that never sleeps.
Inspector Danilov is in charge for the case. Russian, originally from Minsk, he used to work in Scotland Yard. His Chinese is far from perfect, but his ability to enter into killer's mind is beyond the limits. From the first sight of the dead woman's body, he realises that this is far from lover's revenge. And when another body appears, the idea for a serial killer slowly appears in his mind.
Not so long time ago, Danilov had to leave his family in Minsk. Every day he misses his wife, daughter and son. There's been war back home, a revolution, and his family is lost. He has no information about them, he doesn't know are they dead or alive. Just a small ad in a newspaper gives him hope, that someone will see it and tell him the truth, whatever that is. In the meantime, an opium pipe settled in his apartment helps him to cope with the memories and his loneliness.
Danilov's assistant, Strachan, half Chinese, is a very interesting character. He fights his entire life with the stigma of being half, he is Chinese among the English and English among the Chinese. His partnership with the Russian inspector seems like the best choice because they are both outcasts. His hero figure is his father, a cop who died on duty. He takes care for his mother and does his best to make his dead father proud of him. Strachan is a loyal friend, someone who can be trusted even when trust is questioned.
It is a real refreshment to read my favorite genre of a book set in a different surrounding and different time. The author set the plot in Shanghai, China, in 1928. The main character is Russian, who lives and works in Shanghai and his assistant is half Chinese. There are many international characters here, from the detectives in the police department to the witnesses along the places where victims are found and the victims themselves. The author described Shanghai in 1920-ties perfectly, he captured the image of the city where opium smuggling ruled, where prostitution and sex-change were something you see every day, where some people had distorted sense for justice in the world full of crime. Death in Shanghai is an interesting book, full of speculations, false leads and many turn-overs. Unpredictable, it takes you on a journey in a different place and time and makes you feel the life in a city that never sleeps.
December 15, 2019
Inspector Danilov investigates a series of gruesome murders. Danilov, a Russian emigre on the Shanghai Municipal Police homicide squad, knows this is the work of a cunning serial killer, but must fight through the bureaucrats and his own demons to catch the killer.
May 12, 2016
This is the second novel in the Inspector Danilov series and I (once again!) need to hang my head in shame and confess that I haven’t read Death in Shanghai. But that certainly didn’t stop me from thoroughly enjoying this enchanting historical crime adventure. Would I have benefited from reading book one first…? Well, probably…but that’s the case with the majority of books in a series, isn’t it? For me it worked well as a standalone.
Our story starts with the Lee family being brutally murdered. Danilov is immediately vexed as the murders took place on his patch but he’s not the lead detective (he should be, but he’s not). Inspector Cowan, a less than honourable colleague, has taken the reigns and delights in bragging that the killer has been apprehended, using a little physical coercion (if you know what I mean!). Whilst moving the prisoner to the hospital he and a fellow police officer are shot, one fatally. Could this new murder be connected to the Lee family? And if so, how…?
Inspector Danilov and DS Strachan are on the case! (It’s not their case but they’re on it.) And thank goodness they are. I ADORE Danilov and Strachan. They are my new favourite crime-fighting duo! Everything about these two characters works so well in my opinion. Danilov with his peculiarities, dutiful Strachan with his desire to learn from the more experienced detective. Such charming characters who I hope I will have the chance to read about again and again.
The multicultural setting of 1920s Shanghai was a joy to read about. Historical fiction is something I dip my toe into very occasionally as I sometimes find it (dare I say) a little dull. Not the case with the hustle and bustle of twenties Shanghai. It was vibrant, fascinating and set the scene perfectly.
I couldn’t put this wonderful book down so it’s no surprise that I recommend it. How can you not have Inspector Danilov and DS Strachan in your life??
Five out of five stars
Many thanks to Carina, M J Lee and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of City of Shadows in exchange for an honest review.
Our story starts with the Lee family being brutally murdered. Danilov is immediately vexed as the murders took place on his patch but he’s not the lead detective (he should be, but he’s not). Inspector Cowan, a less than honourable colleague, has taken the reigns and delights in bragging that the killer has been apprehended, using a little physical coercion (if you know what I mean!). Whilst moving the prisoner to the hospital he and a fellow police officer are shot, one fatally. Could this new murder be connected to the Lee family? And if so, how…?
Inspector Danilov and DS Strachan are on the case! (It’s not their case but they’re on it.) And thank goodness they are. I ADORE Danilov and Strachan. They are my new favourite crime-fighting duo! Everything about these two characters works so well in my opinion. Danilov with his peculiarities, dutiful Strachan with his desire to learn from the more experienced detective. Such charming characters who I hope I will have the chance to read about again and again.
The multicultural setting of 1920s Shanghai was a joy to read about. Historical fiction is something I dip my toe into very occasionally as I sometimes find it (dare I say) a little dull. Not the case with the hustle and bustle of twenties Shanghai. It was vibrant, fascinating and set the scene perfectly.
I couldn’t put this wonderful book down so it’s no surprise that I recommend it. How can you not have Inspector Danilov and DS Strachan in your life??
Five out of five stars
Many thanks to Carina, M J Lee and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of City of Shadows in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2016
This is my first novel by M J Lee and the second in the Inspector Danilov series.
Beautifully set during the 1920's in Shanghai, a city that is melting pot of culture and crime.
Like all good stories we have the main storyline which involves the murder of the Lee family who have been brutally executed within their own home. Inspector Danilov finds himself involved with cracking this case.
Danilov starts to investigate the murders of the family even though it is not technically his case, together with his fellow officer Strachan they try to solve this horrific crime.
A nice touch is the parallel storylines in the background which include Danilov's search for his missing wife and son as well as his relationship with his daughter who has come to live with him.
As a setting, Shanghai at any point in time is a striking setting but the 20's setting is just perfect, the mixture of the characters backgrounds, Russian, Scottish, Chinese makes for an interesting combination.
This is a gripping story from start to finish and like all good crime novels is atmospheric with menacing bad guys and no clue of whodunnit till the end.
Thank you to Neverland Book Tours for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Beautifully set during the 1920's in Shanghai, a city that is melting pot of culture and crime.
Like all good stories we have the main storyline which involves the murder of the Lee family who have been brutally executed within their own home. Inspector Danilov finds himself involved with cracking this case.
Danilov starts to investigate the murders of the family even though it is not technically his case, together with his fellow officer Strachan they try to solve this horrific crime.
A nice touch is the parallel storylines in the background which include Danilov's search for his missing wife and son as well as his relationship with his daughter who has come to live with him.
As a setting, Shanghai at any point in time is a striking setting but the 20's setting is just perfect, the mixture of the characters backgrounds, Russian, Scottish, Chinese makes for an interesting combination.
This is a gripping story from start to finish and like all good crime novels is atmospheric with menacing bad guys and no clue of whodunnit till the end.
Thank you to Neverland Book Tours for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2016
This is the second book about Inspector Danilov that I have read so I knew vaguely what to expect. After thoroughly enjoying the first one I wanted this to be just as good and I wasn’t disappointed.
I’m fascinated by the setting in Shanghai, the undercover seediness and the mix of characters is enthralling. Martin does such a great job of describing everything so you can sit, read and absorb.
This time we see the massacre of a family along with the mystery of Danilov’s missing wife and son … bearing in mind this is set in the 1920’s it’s fairly grim and graphic as the story unfolds and leads us to book three.
Fabulous for lovers of a good mystery/thriller .. I’m looking forward to the next instalment already!
Thanks to Neverland Blog Tours and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I’m fascinated by the setting in Shanghai, the undercover seediness and the mix of characters is enthralling. Martin does such a great job of describing everything so you can sit, read and absorb.
This time we see the massacre of a family along with the mystery of Danilov’s missing wife and son … bearing in mind this is set in the 1920’s it’s fairly grim and graphic as the story unfolds and leads us to book three.
Fabulous for lovers of a good mystery/thriller .. I’m looking forward to the next instalment already!
Thanks to Neverland Blog Tours and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
March 14, 2016
The story in this book was set in Shanghai between the old and the new town. From the first chapter I was hooked on this roller coaster of a thriller about the murders of an everyday Chinese family. The two main characters Danilov and Strachan were well partnered and set out to solve the murders. Just when I thought I had worked out the plot,another murder occurs keeping me totally engrossed. As the story unfolds I found there were many twists and turns leaving me on the edge of my seat. A fantastic read and I look forward to the third book.
March 28, 2021
Truth be told, there was simply no way I wasn't going to read this book. The premise alone was enough for me - A Russian detective, having fled revolution and civil war investigating a series of grisly murders in 1920's Shanghai.
The story follows one Inspector Danilov around the bustling Chinese capital as he hunts for a serial killer on a particularly brutal campaign. A wonderfully unique setting for a crime story, full of various secondary European elements - British, French, and, of course, Russian - which add an interesting multicultural flavour to the Chinese locale during a fascinating period in its history.
Unfortunately, despite the promising synopsis, I felt the novel itself fell somewhat short of its mark. The story was typical of a murder investigation, a few genre tropes here and there, and regrettably I found some of the characters rather thinly drawn. Danilov himself I thought deserved much more of a backstory, which, when it came, was a bit late on in the plot and consequently lacking in impact.
The writing, in my opinion, is passable for a quick and fun read, however failed in immersing me as thoroughly into the setting as I would have hoped. The dialogue between characters - some little more than caricatures - was at times a bit campy, making the exchanges feel slightly wooden and overly contrived.
Certain sections of the book are written from the killer's perspective, which was an interesting touch, while the murders themselves, and indeed most of the violence is rather brutal, even excessive at times. Although I suppose in fairness, serial killers aren't generally known for their restraint. I also quite enjoyed the nods to traditional folklore and local customs, the author himself clearly very familiar with the ground he covers.
A light read, a fun little jaunt through historic Shanghai on the hunt for a sadistic madman. I was hoping for a bit more in terms of the wondrous setting being brought to life, but still, entertaining enough.
3.0 / 5.0
The story follows one Inspector Danilov around the bustling Chinese capital as he hunts for a serial killer on a particularly brutal campaign. A wonderfully unique setting for a crime story, full of various secondary European elements - British, French, and, of course, Russian - which add an interesting multicultural flavour to the Chinese locale during a fascinating period in its history.
Unfortunately, despite the promising synopsis, I felt the novel itself fell somewhat short of its mark. The story was typical of a murder investigation, a few genre tropes here and there, and regrettably I found some of the characters rather thinly drawn. Danilov himself I thought deserved much more of a backstory, which, when it came, was a bit late on in the plot and consequently lacking in impact.
The writing, in my opinion, is passable for a quick and fun read, however failed in immersing me as thoroughly into the setting as I would have hoped. The dialogue between characters - some little more than caricatures - was at times a bit campy, making the exchanges feel slightly wooden and overly contrived.
Certain sections of the book are written from the killer's perspective, which was an interesting touch, while the murders themselves, and indeed most of the violence is rather brutal, even excessive at times. Although I suppose in fairness, serial killers aren't generally known for their restraint. I also quite enjoyed the nods to traditional folklore and local customs, the author himself clearly very familiar with the ground he covers.
A light read, a fun little jaunt through historic Shanghai on the hunt for a sadistic madman. I was hoping for a bit more in terms of the wondrous setting being brought to life, but still, entertaining enough.
3.0 / 5.0
October 18, 2020
An exciting page turner.
December 20, 2017
The mystery unfolds in 1928 in the International Settlement of Shanghai where the body of a young person is found oddly mutilated and laid out ceremoniously. The case is assigned to Insp. Danilov, a former policeman from Minsk, whose brilliance as a detective is offset by his neurotic tendencies. Along with his young partner, Strachan who is half Chinese and half Scottish, they prove to be a winning team. As the bodies mount, there are twists, unexpected turns, and interesting characters. Looking forward to reading more in this series.
November 23, 2017
Superb!
July 29, 2018
Great Book
This book takes you into the dark and forbidden world of Shanghai of the 1920's. The people and places come alive and places you there with them. I look forward to read the series.
This book takes you into the dark and forbidden world of Shanghai of the 1920's. The people and places come alive and places you there with them. I look forward to read the series.
June 4, 2021
The 'blurb' doesn't reflect the actual plot...
Danilov is an expatriate Russian, separated from his family by the Revolution while on assignment to Moscow and unable to return to Minsk. In Shanghai he is working as a detective in the British zone - he had previously worked with Scotland Yard - but his relations with 'colleagues', most of whom are time-servers rather than servants of the law, are frosty. Fortunately he is partnered with a half-Chinese young detective constable who is determined to uphold his family honour. They work together to solve a series of murders in several areas of the city - including the French zone - despite pressure from above and a lack of help from his own department.
The period and setting are well-evoked. One or two very minor anachronisms will be overlooked by most readers and the pace is maintained throughout. I really had no idea as to the identity of the murderer until the 'reveal', even though his thoughts are scattered throughout the narrative. It's depressing to read about the level of corruption that seemed to have existed in this most cosmopolitan city, which seems to have deserved the reputation its very name has gained as a verb...
I have the second book to read as well!
Danilov is an expatriate Russian, separated from his family by the Revolution while on assignment to Moscow and unable to return to Minsk. In Shanghai he is working as a detective in the British zone - he had previously worked with Scotland Yard - but his relations with 'colleagues', most of whom are time-servers rather than servants of the law, are frosty. Fortunately he is partnered with a half-Chinese young detective constable who is determined to uphold his family honour. They work together to solve a series of murders in several areas of the city - including the French zone - despite pressure from above and a lack of help from his own department.
The period and setting are well-evoked. One or two very minor anachronisms will be overlooked by most readers and the pace is maintained throughout. I really had no idea as to the identity of the murderer until the 'reveal', even though his thoughts are scattered throughout the narrative. It's depressing to read about the level of corruption that seemed to have existed in this most cosmopolitan city, which seems to have deserved the reputation its very name has gained as a verb...
I have the second book to read as well!
May 11, 2016
Copy provided by Neverland Blog Tours in exchange for an honest review.
An entire family is dead. Slaughtered. A husband and wife, two little children. Someone entered into their home and killed them in the most brutal way. The killers shot some of the victims, cut the throat of the others. But nothing is taken. The jewelry, the money, the papers, it is all there, not even touched.
Soon after the murders happen, a person has been arrested. He confesses the crime. But Inspector Danilov isn't confident about it. The man is obviously beaten by the police officers and the confession doesn't hold water at all. Something fishy is going on here.
Inspector Danilov's personal life is getting better this time, sort of. He has found his daughter Elina, but the relationship with her is not good at all. She has gone through hell just to stay alive and find her father and now she accuses him of all the bad things that happened to their family. And the father doesn't know how to talk to his teenage daughter who is growing into a woman.
Danilov is missing his wife terribly and seeks her in the pipe full of opium. But the escape from reality can't last forever. With a police officer missing and main suspect of murder killed, he has no time for fooling around. People need justice. He needs justice.
The plot of the story is set up in Shanghai in 1920-s. The author well described the surroundings, you can almost see the lights of the city at night and smell the fish and opium. This time, we can see more of the personal lives of the inspector and the detective, walk into their homes and meet their families. Danilov has his daughter, Elina, and Strachan has his Chinese mother.
There was one small thing that bothered me. Elina's surname. Not many people will notice, especially in the western world, but „Danilov“ is male's last name. In Russian, and all Slavic languages, most surnames change depending on the gender of the person. Her last name should be „Danilova“, simply because she is a female. Male last names always end with -ov, -ski, -n or-y, but female last names have one more -a at the end, like -ova,-ska or -aya. For example, my father's last name is Stevkovski, and mine and my mother's are Stevkovska. -A at the end refers to women. It is still the same surname. Just remember Anna Karenina and her husband, Karenin.
Overall, I enjoyed Inspector Danilov's adventures in the city of shadows and opium. His escape from reality doesn't make him a lousy cop. It is just his way to handle all the problems that he carries on his back. His mind is one of a kind and together with Detective Sergeant Strachan they make a perfect crime fighting duo. I would love to see more of them in the next book.
An entire family is dead. Slaughtered. A husband and wife, two little children. Someone entered into their home and killed them in the most brutal way. The killers shot some of the victims, cut the throat of the others. But nothing is taken. The jewelry, the money, the papers, it is all there, not even touched.
Soon after the murders happen, a person has been arrested. He confesses the crime. But Inspector Danilov isn't confident about it. The man is obviously beaten by the police officers and the confession doesn't hold water at all. Something fishy is going on here.
Inspector Danilov's personal life is getting better this time, sort of. He has found his daughter Elina, but the relationship with her is not good at all. She has gone through hell just to stay alive and find her father and now she accuses him of all the bad things that happened to their family. And the father doesn't know how to talk to his teenage daughter who is growing into a woman.
Danilov is missing his wife terribly and seeks her in the pipe full of opium. But the escape from reality can't last forever. With a police officer missing and main suspect of murder killed, he has no time for fooling around. People need justice. He needs justice.
The plot of the story is set up in Shanghai in 1920-s. The author well described the surroundings, you can almost see the lights of the city at night and smell the fish and opium. This time, we can see more of the personal lives of the inspector and the detective, walk into their homes and meet their families. Danilov has his daughter, Elina, and Strachan has his Chinese mother.
There was one small thing that bothered me. Elina's surname. Not many people will notice, especially in the western world, but „Danilov“ is male's last name. In Russian, and all Slavic languages, most surnames change depending on the gender of the person. Her last name should be „Danilova“, simply because she is a female. Male last names always end with -ov, -ski, -n or-y, but female last names have one more -a at the end, like -ova,-ska or -aya. For example, my father's last name is Stevkovski, and mine and my mother's are Stevkovska. -A at the end refers to women. It is still the same surname. Just remember Anna Karenina and her husband, Karenin.
Overall, I enjoyed Inspector Danilov's adventures in the city of shadows and opium. His escape from reality doesn't make him a lousy cop. It is just his way to handle all the problems that he carries on his back. His mind is one of a kind and together with Detective Sergeant Strachan they make a perfect crime fighting duo. I would love to see more of them in the next book.
January 25, 2016
Recently I have been reading more historical fiction and when Death In Shanghai was recommended on crimfictionlover.com I thought I'd give it a go. What a debut! It is an enthralling crime novel, packed with period detail and atmosphere.
The novel introduces Inspector Danilov, a Russian emigre, and his green apprentice, Constable Strachan, half Chinese, half Scottish, as they organise the removal of a corpse from dead baby beach. When more bodies are discovered it becomes obvious they are looking for a vicious serial killer. This is not a novel for the faint hearted as the descriptions of mutilations are quite graphic.
I liked the characters. It may be a bit of a cliche - 2 outsiders battling the establishment in their search for the truth - but it works. Danilov has lost his family in the wreckage of the Russian civil war and now lives for his work which puts him at odds with the rest of the detectives who are there for an easy life and the perks of being a Brit abroad. There is enough mystery in his backstory to give Mr Lee plenty to work with in future novels. David Strachan is the son of a police officer who died in the course of his duties and has been raised by his Chinese mother. He is young and inexperienced but desperate to do a good job and live up to his father's standards. It is nice to see their relationship develop over the course of the novel and I hope it will go from strength to strength.
The plot is necessarily quite slow at the beginning. The bodies start to pile up but clues are thin on the ground so the detectives don't initially get very far but I think this is probably quite realistic and the author uses this time to introduce the characters and set the scene of 1928 Shanghai in all its decadence and profligacy - it makes you feel ashamed of our past arrogance and ignorance. The action picks up in the second half as Inspector Danilov starts to put things together. It is more than I managed, being clueless until the denouement.
I think Death In Shanghai is a very good start to the series and I will read the follow up. I am however confused about Danilov's identity and would ask the author to clear it up. Early in the novel Danilov says he doesn't understand the Brits' obsession with their minorities but he is consistently referred to as a Russian when he comes from Minsk which is in Belorus. I may not know much about the former Russian Empire but I do know that ethnic identity is important to them and a Belorussian would no more call himself Russian than I would call myself English. And while I'm being pedantic when did a pushchair become a stroller in English? (Americanisms seem out of place in such an "English" setting).
The novel introduces Inspector Danilov, a Russian emigre, and his green apprentice, Constable Strachan, half Chinese, half Scottish, as they organise the removal of a corpse from dead baby beach. When more bodies are discovered it becomes obvious they are looking for a vicious serial killer. This is not a novel for the faint hearted as the descriptions of mutilations are quite graphic.
I liked the characters. It may be a bit of a cliche - 2 outsiders battling the establishment in their search for the truth - but it works. Danilov has lost his family in the wreckage of the Russian civil war and now lives for his work which puts him at odds with the rest of the detectives who are there for an easy life and the perks of being a Brit abroad. There is enough mystery in his backstory to give Mr Lee plenty to work with in future novels. David Strachan is the son of a police officer who died in the course of his duties and has been raised by his Chinese mother. He is young and inexperienced but desperate to do a good job and live up to his father's standards. It is nice to see their relationship develop over the course of the novel and I hope it will go from strength to strength.
The plot is necessarily quite slow at the beginning. The bodies start to pile up but clues are thin on the ground so the detectives don't initially get very far but I think this is probably quite realistic and the author uses this time to introduce the characters and set the scene of 1928 Shanghai in all its decadence and profligacy - it makes you feel ashamed of our past arrogance and ignorance. The action picks up in the second half as Inspector Danilov starts to put things together. It is more than I managed, being clueless until the denouement.
I think Death In Shanghai is a very good start to the series and I will read the follow up. I am however confused about Danilov's identity and would ask the author to clear it up. Early in the novel Danilov says he doesn't understand the Brits' obsession with their minorities but he is consistently referred to as a Russian when he comes from Minsk which is in Belorus. I may not know much about the former Russian Empire but I do know that ethnic identity is important to them and a Belorussian would no more call himself Russian than I would call myself English. And while I'm being pedantic when did a pushchair become a stroller in English? (Americanisms seem out of place in such an "English" setting).
May 16, 2016
Crime fiction fans are in for a treat with the second installment of MJ Lee‘s compulsively readable and wonderfully addictive Inspector Danilov series set in 1920s Shanghai, City of Shadows.
Inspector Danilov has always been a bit of a maverick. Having always been the kind of man to march to the beat of his own drum and not blindly follow the herd, Inspector Danilov takes a unique approach to solving his cases. With conventional policing being thrown out the door, Danilov prefers to follow his instincts to nail his suspects and lock the perpetrator of violent crimes behind bars. With unconventionality being his middle name, when Danilov is asked to investigate the sadistic murder of a fellow police officer killed in action, nobody is surprised when he turns his attention to another case entirely. A case that is baffling, frightening and that has everybody in the city puzzled: the shocking murder of the Lee family, who have been found massacred in their own home. The question on everyone’s lips is what on earth possessed them to open the door to an evil killer who had completely and utterly annihilated the entire family?
As Danilov’s investigation takes him deep into the city’s evil underbelly, he finds himself embroiled in a den of corruption, malice and skulduggery. He can feel himself getting closer and closer to finding the killer, but each time he thinks he is close to nailing his perpetrator, a spanner is thrown into the works by shocking revelations that throw him off-kilter.
Will Danilov ever manage to arrest the person who has wreaked such destruction? Or will he be forced to commit the ultimate sacrifice: walk away from his investigation to keep the people he loves with all of his heart safe from evil?
MJ Lee’s City of Shadows should come with warning: don’t start this book late at night because you are sure to still be up at three o clock in the morning unable to put down this first class tale of murder, intrigue, secrets and lies. A fantastic crime novel packed with heart-pounding suspense, nail biting mystery and jaw dropping twists and turns, City of Shadows is a densely plotted, wonderfully layered and highly atmospheric yarn that has keeper written all over it!
Addictive, engrossing and stunning from beginning to end, crime fiction does not get any better than this!
Inspector Danilov has always been a bit of a maverick. Having always been the kind of man to march to the beat of his own drum and not blindly follow the herd, Inspector Danilov takes a unique approach to solving his cases. With conventional policing being thrown out the door, Danilov prefers to follow his instincts to nail his suspects and lock the perpetrator of violent crimes behind bars. With unconventionality being his middle name, when Danilov is asked to investigate the sadistic murder of a fellow police officer killed in action, nobody is surprised when he turns his attention to another case entirely. A case that is baffling, frightening and that has everybody in the city puzzled: the shocking murder of the Lee family, who have been found massacred in their own home. The question on everyone’s lips is what on earth possessed them to open the door to an evil killer who had completely and utterly annihilated the entire family?
As Danilov’s investigation takes him deep into the city’s evil underbelly, he finds himself embroiled in a den of corruption, malice and skulduggery. He can feel himself getting closer and closer to finding the killer, but each time he thinks he is close to nailing his perpetrator, a spanner is thrown into the works by shocking revelations that throw him off-kilter.
Will Danilov ever manage to arrest the person who has wreaked such destruction? Or will he be forced to commit the ultimate sacrifice: walk away from his investigation to keep the people he loves with all of his heart safe from evil?
MJ Lee’s City of Shadows should come with warning: don’t start this book late at night because you are sure to still be up at three o clock in the morning unable to put down this first class tale of murder, intrigue, secrets and lies. A fantastic crime novel packed with heart-pounding suspense, nail biting mystery and jaw dropping twists and turns, City of Shadows is a densely plotted, wonderfully layered and highly atmospheric yarn that has keeper written all over it!
Addictive, engrossing and stunning from beginning to end, crime fiction does not get any better than this!
September 9, 2015
We're taken to Shanghai in the 1920s - a multicultural vibrant city where 4 million people are policed by just 150 police officers across many languages and nationalities. Into the midst of this smog-filled city comes a brutal serial killer who is torturing and killing people, then marking their body with ancient Chinese symbols and leaving them on display.
Inspector Danilov, a Russian police officer who was turn from his family during the civil war, is a somewhat prickly, formal man who keeps to himself - making few friends amongst the average police officer. At night he smokes opium, struggling with his isolated life and missing family. Assisted by young constable Strachan who just wants to make his dead father proud and have a good meal every day, he must try to solve the clues and find the pattern to the killings, before a patsy is found to take the fall and more people die.
The chaos of Shanghai is a unique and vibrant setting, and the backdrop of the 1920s really made this book stand out. Whilst the writing is somewhat more formal than I'm used to - that fits perfectly with the characters and the time period. There are a lot of layers here, and miles of depth to the story, with the supporting cast all being well written characters in their own right. Very subtle, dry humour at points really brought the book to life for me as well.
I had a lot of empathy for Danilov by the end of the novel, and would love to find out what happens to him, his family and of course, the endearing and brave Strachan in the future. An outstanding debut crime novel from M.J.Lee - and I'm really happy to see that this will be a series!
I would like to thank the publisher, Carina UK, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced review copy of this book.
Inspector Danilov, a Russian police officer who was turn from his family during the civil war, is a somewhat prickly, formal man who keeps to himself - making few friends amongst the average police officer. At night he smokes opium, struggling with his isolated life and missing family. Assisted by young constable Strachan who just wants to make his dead father proud and have a good meal every day, he must try to solve the clues and find the pattern to the killings, before a patsy is found to take the fall and more people die.
The chaos of Shanghai is a unique and vibrant setting, and the backdrop of the 1920s really made this book stand out. Whilst the writing is somewhat more formal than I'm used to - that fits perfectly with the characters and the time period. There are a lot of layers here, and miles of depth to the story, with the supporting cast all being well written characters in their own right. Very subtle, dry humour at points really brought the book to life for me as well.
I had a lot of empathy for Danilov by the end of the novel, and would love to find out what happens to him, his family and of course, the endearing and brave Strachan in the future. An outstanding debut crime novel from M.J.Lee - and I'm really happy to see that this will be a series!
I would like to thank the publisher, Carina UK, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced review copy of this book.
September 11, 2015
Shanghai is a city of decadence and corruption, where every desire can be filled for a price. When the gruesomely mutilated body of a blonde is found on the Beach of Dead Babies, the character for 'justice' carved on its chest, Inspector Danilov is told to make an arrest in a hurry. But Danilov, unlike many inspectors, is more concerned with the truth than an easy collar. It soon becomes apparent that the killer has killed before and will continue killing unless he is found quickly.
I was very impressed by Death in Shanghai. The novel captures the feeling of life in Shanghai at the end of the 1920s, the blending of Chinese tradition with Western materialism. Danilov is a unique individual, dedicated to his work but troubled by the loss of his family. His careful and systematic approach, as well as his Russian ethnicity, brings him in conflict with the other officers in the department.
Between chapters, the musings of the killer give insight, without giving away his identity.
If you like historical mysteries or police procedurals, you will enjoy this unique novel. Death in Shanghai is a fascinating mystery, and I look forward to future novels in the series.
5/5
I received a copy of Death in Shanghai from the publisher and netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Death in Shanghai is an immersive period thriller
http://muttcafe.com/2015/09/death-in-...
I was very impressed by Death in Shanghai. The novel captures the feeling of life in Shanghai at the end of the 1920s, the blending of Chinese tradition with Western materialism. Danilov is a unique individual, dedicated to his work but troubled by the loss of his family. His careful and systematic approach, as well as his Russian ethnicity, brings him in conflict with the other officers in the department.
Between chapters, the musings of the killer give insight, without giving away his identity.
If you like historical mysteries or police procedurals, you will enjoy this unique novel. Death in Shanghai is a fascinating mystery, and I look forward to future novels in the series.
5/5
I received a copy of Death in Shanghai from the publisher and netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Death in Shanghai is an immersive period thriller
http://muttcafe.com/2015/09/death-in-...
December 14, 2015
4.5 stars. Knowing I already enjoy historical crime and having loved Boris Akunin’s Fandorin series I was intrigued by the blurb for this book. This is not a book to be read quickly and rushed through but one to be savoured. I admit it took me a little while to get into the story, partly I suspect due to introducing and developing the main characters, but suddenly halfway through everything got going. What had been a steady police investigation suddenly gained pace and intensity and I was completely hooked. I loved the characters (clearly not all of them!) but Danilov and Strachan develop into an excellent team during the course of the book and we begin to understand them as the story progresses and insights into their characters and lives are revealed. The detail and description of Shanghai is excellent, I’ve never been there but I could clearly imagine the sights, sounds and smells of the city. I also loved all the little details, like the meals Strachan had when he got home at night, little details like that made this book stand out for me. I know the second in the series is due out in March and I will definitely be reading it. I have been quite bereft since the Fandorin series ended but I think in Danilov I have found a new detective to follow and I will be impatiently waiting for book 2 and all the subsequent books in the series.
December 18, 2015
1920’s Shanghai makes an interesting location for this debut novel by MJ Lee. Full of intrigue, eerily haunting, tense & atmospheric a fine story in which we are introduced to Danilov, a Russian police officer who is intent on finding the killer lurking in the city. Working alongside the younger Strachan they make a good team.
The bodies start amassing & it is imperative they piece the clues together to prevent any more deaths. Some of it is gruesome & made my stomach roll but the descriptive writing is fabulous. It kept me glued to the page & I wanted to keep reading ‘just a little bit more’ in order to find out what happens.
Danilov was forced to leave his family behind as he escaped Minsk & has no idea if they are still alive .. he struggles with his emotions & relies on opium. Strachan is determined to make his dead father proud so there is a basis on which to continue this series (hopefully) so we can delve more into their complex lives.
Plenty of colourful characters populate the storyline & it is clear life in that era was not easy for many of them .. all-in-all a highly enjoyable book.
Thanks to the author & Jenny @Neverland Tours for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The bodies start amassing & it is imperative they piece the clues together to prevent any more deaths. Some of it is gruesome & made my stomach roll but the descriptive writing is fabulous. It kept me glued to the page & I wanted to keep reading ‘just a little bit more’ in order to find out what happens.
Danilov was forced to leave his family behind as he escaped Minsk & has no idea if they are still alive .. he struggles with his emotions & relies on opium. Strachan is determined to make his dead father proud so there is a basis on which to continue this series (hopefully) so we can delve more into their complex lives.
Plenty of colourful characters populate the storyline & it is clear life in that era was not easy for many of them .. all-in-all a highly enjoyable book.
Thanks to the author & Jenny @Neverland Tours for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 5, 2015
1920’s Shanghai is the setting where we meet for the first time Inspector Danilov.
When a blonde is washed up on the ‘Beach of Dead Babies’ brutally murdered, this brilliant thriller engages you from the start. Not one for nonsense and very set in his ways, the quirks of Danilov made him a likable character. He has an eye for detail and I imagine if you met him in a bar, he would be the quiet one in he corner just simply observing.
Death in Shanghai is an elegant read and richly descriptive. Our killer is classy, clever and not once did I guess who he was, in fact at one point I thought it was Miss Cavendish.
The reader really gets a feel for the location of this novel, the hawkers, the way of life right down to the smells of the cigarettes. I loved it. It is a cleverly plotted tale that beguiles, interests and most of all excites.
Getting to know Danilov and the rest of the characters is really quite a thrill and M J Lee’s introduction of him is fascinating, and with THAT ending I for one can’t wait for the next instalment.
When a blonde is washed up on the ‘Beach of Dead Babies’ brutally murdered, this brilliant thriller engages you from the start. Not one for nonsense and very set in his ways, the quirks of Danilov made him a likable character. He has an eye for detail and I imagine if you met him in a bar, he would be the quiet one in he corner just simply observing.
Death in Shanghai is an elegant read and richly descriptive. Our killer is classy, clever and not once did I guess who he was, in fact at one point I thought it was Miss Cavendish.
The reader really gets a feel for the location of this novel, the hawkers, the way of life right down to the smells of the cigarettes. I loved it. It is a cleverly plotted tale that beguiles, interests and most of all excites.
Getting to know Danilov and the rest of the characters is really quite a thrill and M J Lee’s introduction of him is fascinating, and with THAT ending I for one can’t wait for the next instalment.
March 8, 2016
This is the second book in the Inspector Danilov series by MJ Lee and it did not disappoint!
There were many more wonderful descriptions of Shanghai and in this book the reader is given a greater sense of how the city is laid out and just how difficult it must have been to police in the early 1900's.
I love the characters of Danilov and Straachan specifically; but all of the characters are well written and likeable/hateable as was the authors want. Lee's ability to create beautiful prose and write such well rounded, complex and intricate characters continues to amaze me.
The only criticism I have is that there were a few phrases repeated virtually word for word throughout the book. I found when I read them for the second (or third) time I was jarred out of the narrative and 'woke up' as it were. Kind of annoying!
I would recommend this book and I am very much looking forward to reading more of Lee's books.
I was gifted a copy of this book by TBC in exchange for an honest review.
There were many more wonderful descriptions of Shanghai and in this book the reader is given a greater sense of how the city is laid out and just how difficult it must have been to police in the early 1900's.
I love the characters of Danilov and Straachan specifically; but all of the characters are well written and likeable/hateable as was the authors want. Lee's ability to create beautiful prose and write such well rounded, complex and intricate characters continues to amaze me.
The only criticism I have is that there were a few phrases repeated virtually word for word throughout the book. I found when I read them for the second (or third) time I was jarred out of the narrative and 'woke up' as it were. Kind of annoying!
I would recommend this book and I am very much looking forward to reading more of Lee's books.
I was gifted a copy of this book by TBC in exchange for an honest review.
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