Shanghai Twilight

Tom Lai #1

by Matthew Legare

Shanghai, January 1932

As tensions between Japan and China reach a boiling point, Chinese-American expat Tom Lai has troubles of his own. A successful nightclub owner and supporter of the Chinese Nationalist Party, he's about to start a new life with his mistress, the glamorous Mei-chen. But when Shanghai's crime syndicate - the infamous Green Gang - accuses Tom of being a Japanese spy, he's given forty-eight hours to prove his innocence or face a gruesome death.

Scouring glitzy and decadent Shanghai, Tom uncovers evidence suggesting that his best friend – an American Consulate officer – is the real spy. But in the netherworld of espionage, he's unsure what to believe anymore. Tom will have to rely on an ally in the Chinese Army, his personal bodyguard, and Mei-chen to clear his name and survive. However, he'll also have to avoid corrupt cops, Japanese agent provocateurs, and a sadistic Chinese gangster, while a full-scale war threatens to engulf the entire city.

Shanghai Twilight is a fast-paced noir thriller, about a man and a city, both running out of time.

Genres: Historical Fiction

237 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 31, 2019

About the author

Matthew Legare has always loved reading, writing, and history. He’s combined his passions to tell stories set during little-known, but fascinating, events of the past. His style is a smooth blend of old pulp magazines and contemporary thrillers, which makes for a pulsating read.

Reviews

[F.E. Beyer · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author achieves what he set out to do: create an entertaining pulp fiction thriller set in 1930s Shanghai. The in-depth historical research is evident, and the reader learns about the Kuomintang, Green Gang and Japanese incursions into China without feeling the narrative has become overly didactic. Having lived in Shanghai, I could envisage the various places protagonist Tom Lai visits. I like that Lai is a nightclub owner rather than a detective or a policeman. Lai is American Chinese and Legare captures the prejudice he experiences both from westerners, who think of him as a chink, and the Chinese, who call him a foreign devil. Some of the metaphors and adjectives used are clunky — I suppose that’s part of the pulp style. The plot devices to pull Lai out of danger are also comic-book-esque. Importantly, the gangsters are well sketched, and Lai’s girlfriend Mei, initially a cliched sing song girl, develops as the plot unfolds. I hope Legare continues to develop his own style. I will check out the 2nd book in the series.

[Mei Li · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another well written thriller from Matthew Legare! Chinese American Tom Lai finds himself in Shanghai during Japanese invasion of China, a city ruled by gangsters and plagued by opium. Despite the chaotic world, he tries desperately to make an honest living but is instead framed to be a spy. The book is quite engaging. I read with horror how he gets deeper into trouble despite his effort to exonerate himself from the accusation. I wait with trepidation for him to come to realization who betrays him and to overcome the evil forces he’s against. The story actually reaches a point where all hopes are lost and there seems to be no way Tom can escape and rise from the dead. The author does a really good job in building up the tension and arousing readers’ sympathy for the hero. Although I was able to guess who the spy was in the beginning, I didn’t expect what came next, which was half of the story. There are lots of actions and brutal scenes towards the end, especially when Tom decides to fight the war for his country. The relationship between him and Mei-chen goes through different stages as they face the horrendous events together.

[Virginia Maripolsky · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the stylishly edgy cover art to the action filled unexpected ending this narrative rocks the 1930’s in Shanghai.
January 1932 - starts this thriller of pre-war China and Japan - politics, romance, military action, embassies, sex and secrets - a book to keep you up at night. Tom Lai is the owner of the Twilight Club in Shanghai - the best nightclub in town. Born in San Francisco, Tom is American born and bred, but Chinese by ancestry speaking fluent Cantonese as a Yankee expat in his adopted country, China. Tensions between Japan and China and an impending war permeate the background of the storytelling. Bright neon lights puncture the city of Shanghai as the author paints the picture of the 1930’s fashion, music, lifestyle, wealth and poverty. At the Twilight Club the band plays jazz reminiscent of Harlem’s Cotton Club and Tom’s paramour, Mei-chen, his Beautiful Pearl, is the most popular taxi dancer at the club. Shanghai Twilight tells the story of Tom and Mei-chen's divergent paths in their involvement in the pre-war politics and preparations. Both go down dark and dangerous paths, but find themselves fighting together to stay alive.
The narrative has an exciting pulse throughout the storyline moving the reader along from one new interesting character to the next. An expat owning a business in Shanghai must have impressive connections - from politicians to members of the Crime Syndicate to Commanders of the Royal army to diplomats living in the International Settlement - Tom knows them all and the author breathes life into each character. Tom himself even served in the US army in France which impresses his Chinese military connections - a key plot changer in the tale.

Matthew Legare’s author’s note for readers is most informative about the Chinese language. The study and understanding of the many Chinese languages is an immense task and the guidance given by the author as to why he made certain choices with the language in the book is interesting and helpful. The politics of the 1930’s is cleverly woven into the narrative. So the Afterword by Matthew Legare at the end of the book clarifies which characters were historical figures and which events were historical fact. His political comments on the reality of 1930’s Japan/Chinese tensions provides the reader with a historical framework that deepens the appreciation of the story.

In future books, I hope the author delves deeper into Tom Lai’s past, including more of his San Francisco childhood and Chinese background to help the reader better understand his current situation and decision making process.

[MGB · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written book that fits the style the author has established. We get to see a generous helping of real history that played out in Shanghai around the time of the Great Depression. He then fictionalizes characters who were totally appropriate to the time and place.

With this mix he combines an interesting storyline with gangs, love, and loss. The storyline easily accommodates the little side stories which are a key to pulling the user along and mixing in the real history that is happening all around the plot. The characters are all relatable or hate-able depending upon which characters are around our hero at any given time.

Definitely a recommended read for those who love mystery with a good dose of history.

[Christmas Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matthew Legare has crafted another masterpiece. The building of his characters, the settings of the action and the seamless flow from one scene to another has become a dominant features of his books. The research Mr. Legare puts into his writings speaks of an author who not only wants to entertain but also educate. And this is another outstanding example of a power house book that will leave you awestruck.

[Nooilforpacifists · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is more clunky than the five-star reviews would lead you to believe. Oh, the plot not bad. But it feels to “Hemingway-esque,” with emotions drained from the presentation. Suffice it to say: the earth didn’t move for me.

His Japanese mysteries may be better, and I probably will try I one before giving up on Legare.

[Brian Njenga · Rating 5 out of 5]

A trip down history lane, exploring the often overlooked Japanese invasion of China, and narrated by an ex-pat American grown wealthy in Shanghai, with a tragic finale...A must-read for war enthusiasts and history buffs

[Jun Xu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book and I love it. It portrayed a real, old Shanghai. The author understood the Chinese culture and even some Chinese local dialects. Its plot, structure, and vivid language make me feel I returned to old China. If you want to understand China, please read it. You will not feel disappointed.

Jun Xu

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again a great read. It keep my interest from beginning to end. Had everything..love..hate..spies..politics, different cultures. This was a great story with so much going on. I just loved it!
Sue B

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced, action packed thriller. Set in 1932, this is a gripping story which finds central character, Chinese-American expat Tom Lai, in a whole lot of trouble leading up to the Chinese / Japanese war. A truly awesome read.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a first rate Asian thriller with interesting Japanese historical facts combined with cultural detail.

[Chris Bull · Rating 4 out of 5]

Your too good for this wicked city, Tom

Most definitely a noir novel in all its twists and turns. As Tom says Shanghai and I were made for each other.

[Mick Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

The research makes this story for me. I love noir and detective thrillers, but I'm also a history buff, and this one covers all the bases. The writing itself is action-based; none of the language is unnecessary to the story. I hope he writes more Tommy Lai stories.

[Crawforde · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written noir in a neglected time/place

I enjoyed the book, it’s a real page turner, and the main characters were well done. Having the book set in a place/ time that is relatively unknown in the modern US is a plus.
A quick enjoyable read, that would also make a good movie.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable book. I love the author's noir style of writing. A must read in my opinion.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt as if I had been transported back in time and was completely caught up in the story so much that it was impossible not to finish it today. Tom Lai an American of Chinese descent always felt that he was neither. In America he was just another 'chink' and in Shanghai he wasn't treated any better but at least he looked like everyone else. He thought of himself as a patriot he even enlisted in the American army in WW1. Now he faced the strong possibility of a war between China and Japan. Just where did his loyalty really belong?

[Sheila Hultgren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this author. Set in Shanghai before World war 2. I love this author.

[Katheyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matthew Legare’s third book, „Shanghai Twilight”, is first and foremost a classic noir-thriller - with the added bonus of being historically accurate - and offers an interesting counterpoint of view to his “Reiko Watabe/Inspector Aizawa” Series set in Tokyo regarding the Chinese-Japanese relations in the 1930s.

The plot follows Tom Lai, a Chinese-American from San Francisco, who after some personal awakenings, decides not only to find his roots in Shanghai, but also to play an active role into the Chinese Civil war by supporting Chiang Kai-shek and the Chinese Nationalist Party in their fight for independence.

There are two main characters in the book, Shanghai and Tom Lai. The portrait of Shanghai in 1932 struggling between Nationalism, the threat of a imminent Japanese invasion and the desire to ingratiate itself with the Western powers is astonishing vivid.

Easy going Tom Lai finds himself in the middle of the political struggle, accused of spying for the Japanese and fighting for his life, while time is rapidly running out. With barely 48 hours to find the real culprit and escape gruesome death, Lai literally evolves before our eyes into a complex character, from whom we hope to read a lot more in the future. The secondary characters are carefully crafted, with both good and bad traits. The writing is fluid and fast-paced, with the perfect balance between action and character development.

Legare possesses the unusual ability to interweave fiction and history to a highly enjoyable story that satisfices both, history adepts and fans of fast-paced action. The book is well written, fast-paced, and a must read for both thriller fans and those looking for a different take on 1930s Shanghai.

[Milena Benini · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book, really I did. The story had promise -- a Chinese-American in 1932 Shanghai, exactly at the time of the Shanghai incident, and a search for a spy: what could go wrong? Unfortunately, a lot. First of all -- although this is purely a personal thing -- the hero is an ardent supporter of the Nationalist Government, and although the connections with the crime lords and the atrocities committed are mentioned, it never seems to matter. On a more objective note, the search for a spy was conducted in a manner more reminiscent of Scooby-Doo than a spy novel, and was officially resolved at about two thirds of the book (i.e. if you haven't guessed it already), the last third consisting of fighting and more fighting which, to be honest, bored me so much I skimmed a lot of it. The biggest problem, though, were the characters, the majority of whom came from Central Cliche Casting, while those who had potential to be more than just "Corrupt Chinese Cop" or "Sadistic Chinese Gangster" failed because they were all written with about as much passion as breakfast rice and pickles. This could have been a grand and emotional story about a man learning what's really the most important in his life; unfortunately, the writing was flat, with all of hero's dilemmas and reactions spelled out but never actually shown on the page. The author mentions old-fashioned pulp stories as one of his influences, and gets that right although, even in the old days, there have been writers capable of creating convincing characters you wanted to root for. In this case, I honestly didn't care what happened to anyone. That said, the author can write a decent fight; if cardboard figures bashing each other are your thing, you'll enjoy this.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout.

[Rick Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shanghai Twilight
by Matthew Legare

Shanghai Twilight by Matthew Legare is an engaging novel about an expat American's experiences in the days leading up to the Shanghai Incident. Well researched and written the writer quickly immerses you in the intrigue and excitement of the times.

A historical novel set in 1930's Shanghai, the most fascinating city/state of the 19th and 20th century. The principal fictional characters, Tom Lai, his girl friend Ho Mei-chen, diplomat Charles Whitfield, and the Chinese gangster Feng Lung-wei are all well drawn and believable. And Legare skillfully weaves the fictional story together with historical events and creates a credible interplay with the real life politicians, gangsters and military leaders of the time. Tu Yeuh-sheng, the gangster, Chiang Kai-shek, and General Tsai Ting-kai amongst others are portrayed accurately.

The story of Tom's nightclub days, his love affair with Mei-chen, the conflict with the gangsters is well told. Tom's desperate search for the spy in his midst adds to the tension. Plot twists galore and crisp believable dialogue make this a book worth reading. Not only does Legare provided a great story to entertain you, you also get an enjoyable history lesson.

Tom's affection for the city constantly informs his actions during the story. As he says: "That's why I love it. Paris of the East, whore of the Orient. She's both."

I would enjoy reading more about Tom Lai and Mei-chen and do hope Legare has plans for them in a new novel.

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tight, fast-paced thriller set in Old Shanghai.

Shanghai Twilight is set in the early 1930's, at the outbreak of the Sino-Japanese War. Tom Lai is a Chinese American living in Shanghai, a man torn between two countries. He's supportive of ther Kuomintang regime in China, and fought for America in WWI, but is distrusted by both countries. Running a successful nightclub in a corrupt city, he's half legitimate businessman and half involved with the city's criminal syndicate, the Green Gang. When Tom is accused of being a Japanese spy, by the sadistic gangster Feng Lung wei, he's given 48 hours to prove his innocence.

Suspicion falls on everyone, his mistress Mei-chen and his friend, the diplomat Charles Whitfield. The plot moves at a brisk pace and is very reminiscent of those old noir films: i.e. an unsuspecting man thrown into a maze like conspiracy beyond his control. Shanghai Twilight isn't as complex as Legare's Shadows of Tokyo, but not every book has to have be. It still delivered on great characters, exciting action, and an evocative setting through detailed historical research. I really felt I was in 1932 Shanghai while reading this and didn't know what would happen to Tom next.

Hopefully, Legare will write more stories with Tom Lai and in this setting.

[Steve Essick · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unrelenting historical thriller , Matthew Legare creates a fast paced novel dealing with Japan’s attack on Shanghai in January 1932. Thomas Lai, a Chinese/American who was raised in San Francisco and fought valiantly in World War l, now lives in Shanghai and owns the city’s popular Club Twilight. When it is discovered that The Japanese are passing secrets through the club, Tom is given 48 hours by the notorious Green Gang to uncover the spy or pay the ultimate sacrifice . Shanghai Twilight is steeped in history and moves like a high speed train. With its very visual writing , you can picture it on the screen.If you like your thrillers based on reality, you won’t be disappointed !

[Bart Brett · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a tour de force.

Matthew Legare manages to seamlessly switch from pre-war Tokyo to pre-war Shanghai in this new stand alone offering without loosing his genuine feel for the era or the fast pace of his previous books.

His characterization and research set him above other writers like Alexa Kang who have written pretty superficial and poorly researched books about the same period. You are engaged from the first chapter with our new hero and I found myself avidly following the twists and turns of the multilayered plot.

Well done. Please write a follow up as the main character has many more miles in him.

[Les Bird · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in 1932 Shanghai, Shanghai Twilight is a high-octane historical thriller from the accomplished writer Matthew Legare. The story follows Thomas Lai, a Chinese-American accused by the local authorities of espionage. Li tangles with notorious Green Gang, before the Japanese invasion of China, puts a whole new twist on events. I enjoyed this book immensely. Legare keeps the reader hooked throughout as to who the spy actually is - and if Li, himself, will survive the predicament he finds himself in. For those that like stories that are interwoven through actual historical events, Shanghai Twilight is a highly recommended read.

[Heather W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous historical thriller set in 1932 Shanghai. Fast-paced and action-packed, this thriller takes you on a whirlwind ride of Shanghai as Tom and Mei-chen try to clear his name with the Green Gang, Shanghai's crime syndicate. The vivid descriptions give you a great look at the Shanghai of 1932 and make you feel a part of the story as the threat of a citywide war is on the rise.

I am looking forward to the next historical thriller by Matthew Legare.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book with no obligation.

[Pat Eroh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazingly fast-paced thriller that is well-written and overwhelmingly filled with action! I love stories of Asian countries and I really loved the first book I had read by this author about Japan. This one also did not disappoint with wonderful characters such as Tom as his friends. Great book!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

He is Chinese -American and he has a mistress who he hoped to form a life time life with but there is growing tension between Japan and China. This is about to have a major impact on his life when a crime group.accuse him of being a spy. What will happen? Can he prove his innocence? Will he lose everything? See how he gets on

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tony Sommer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fall of Shanghai with a twist towards the end. I missed it and usually I can spot these kind of things. Full of action and suspense throughout the story. I love his books.

[George · Rating 4 out of 5]

#1 in the Tom Lai, successful nightclub owner and strong supporter of the Chinese Nationalist Party, mystery series. Tom was born and raised in San Francisco and has moved to Shanghai. Opens in January, 1932.

Story takes place over around 3 weeks in January ending with the Japanese attack on the city. Tensions between Japan and China are reaching a boiling point and Tom Lai finds himself in the middle of things. He finds himself caught between the Japanese, Chinese Nationalist and the gang that controls the city. Tom is accused of being a Japanese spy and given forty-eight hours to prove his innocence.

[Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Legare excels at his research and knowledge of the periods and settings of his books.
For that alone I would give this book a much higher rating. The characters, though, are simply not there. Not one character has any depth or originality. They’re cardboard cutouts lacking animation. I would love to see the book done over from start to finish.
After saying that, I must add that I still enjoyed reading it.