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The Fourth Princess
Janie Chang's THE FOURTH PRINCESS, a Gothic-style novel set amid the sparkle and decadence of pre-World War I Shanghai
Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2026
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20473 people want to read
About the author
Janie Chang
7 books1,427 followersJanie Chang is a bestselling author of historical fiction. Her books are often inspired by tales of ancestors who encountered dragons, ghosts, and immortals as well as family stories about life in China in the years before the Second World War. Her novels, THREE SOULS and DRAGON SPRINGS ROAD were nominated for the International Dublin Literary Award. DRAGON SPRINGS ROAD was a Canadian national bestseller. Her third novel THE LIBRARY OF LEGENDS was a Canadian national bestseller and a Book of the Month Club selection. THE PORCELAIN MOON is set in WWI France and brings to readers the forgotten history of the 140,000 Chinese workers sent to the Western Front. THE PHOENIX CROWN, a novel co-authored with Kate Quinn, released in February 2024. THE FOURTH PRINCESS, releasing in February 2026, is her first Gothic novel.
Born in Taiwan, Janie has lived in the Philippines, Iran, Thailand, and New Zealand. She now lives on the Sunshine Coast of beautiful British Columbia, Canada with her husband and Minnie, a rescue cat who thinks the staff could do better.
Born in Taiwan, Janie has lived in the Philippines, Iran, Thailand, and New Zealand. She now lives on the Sunshine Coast of beautiful British Columbia, Canada with her husband and Minnie, a rescue cat who thinks the staff could do better.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
September 11, 2025
This is my first time reading a novel written by Janie Chang so I am glad that I took the chance to pick up this arc and give it a read. I will say that 2026 is becoming a very good year when it comes to fiction. This novel is set in China in the year 1911 a couple of years before the start of the Great War.
This haunting story tells the journey of two women from very different backgrounds who start to experience some hauntings of not only the house itself but also from their own past.
One of the women is Lisan a chinese girl who is estatic when she is offered a job as a secretary to American Caroline who is the new mistress of Lennox House. However, shorly after moving in she starts experiencing horrible nightmares she hasn't had since childhood. Meanwhile wealthy American Caroline has issues of her own. Her husband is away and she is unware of when he is coming back. Worst of all someone who knows a great deal about her past is trying to extort her.
Will Lisan and Caroline be able to overcome the obstacles that threaten their sanity or will it come crumbling down upon them. You do not want to miss this intriguing story!
Thank you to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this! All opinions are of my own.
This haunting story tells the journey of two women from very different backgrounds who start to experience some hauntings of not only the house itself but also from their own past.
One of the women is Lisan a chinese girl who is estatic when she is offered a job as a secretary to American Caroline who is the new mistress of Lennox House. However, shorly after moving in she starts experiencing horrible nightmares she hasn't had since childhood. Meanwhile wealthy American Caroline has issues of her own. Her husband is away and she is unware of when he is coming back. Worst of all someone who knows a great deal about her past is trying to extort her.
Will Lisan and Caroline be able to overcome the obstacles that threaten their sanity or will it come crumbling down upon them. You do not want to miss this intriguing story!
Thank you to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this! All opinions are of my own.
March 7, 2026
The Fourth Princess
is the fourth Janie Chang novel I’ve read and while I liked this one quite a bit, my favorite of hers is still
The Porcelain Moon
from 2023. Just like she does in her most recent few novels, Chang takes a little known aspect of Chinese history and presents a compelling, captivating story involving multiple female protagonists, usually one being Chinese and the other not. For me, this sets up an interesting “East meets West” dynamic where, due to the story being told through two diametrically different perspectives, provides a more nuanced lens through which we can better understand the historical and cultural elements that Chang usually incorporates in her novels. In this instance, the two protagonists are Liu Lisan, an educated Chinese woman with a mysterious past, and wealthy American heiress Caroline Stanton, who lives with her millionaire husband Thomas at Lennox Manor, a once-grand mansion on an isolated stretch of land in the International Settlement area of 1911 Shanghai. The paths of these two women cross when Caroline hires Lisan as her secretary to help her navigate the cultural and language differences as she settles into her new life in China. But soon, both women find themselves caught up in the mysteries of their pasts, which come back to haunt them in unexpected ways. Heightening the sense of unease for both women are the dark secrets held by the Manor itself, with its outward grandeur masking a crumbling and dilapidated façade where the ghostly presence of its previous occupants continues to linger. As various secrets come to light and the pasts of both women are slowly unraveled, connections are revealed that not only put both women in danger, but also threaten to upend their lives.
In her Author’s Note, Chang mentions her love of the gothic genre as inspiration for deciding to write a gothic novel of her own, but also one that blends historical elements and aspects of her own Chinese cultural heritage. As such, in a departure from her previous novels, Chang had to hold back on the “history” aspect and instead lean more into “atmosphere” in order to bring out the “gothic” effect of the story. In this regard, I feel that Chang succeeded, as she did a good job overall incorporating the gothic trope of the mysterious and haunted old mansion, making Lennox Manor a “character” in itself. With that said however, having read my fair share of gothic novels in the past (and having studied the genre recently), I couldn’t help feeling that some of the gothic elements here were a bit too heavy-handed and deliberate to the point that some of the descriptions – especially related to the Manor and what the characters experience there -- felt a little out of place in a few spots. While this did have the effect of ratcheting up the tension, it also came across a bit forced and unnatural. Also, on a personal level, I would’ve preferred more focus on Lisan’s story line, as I found her backstory more intriguing, but that could be because I’m more of a fan of the historical than the gothic (though given the novel’s title, I have to admit to being a little surprised that Caroline’s story arc seemed to overshadow Lisan’s somewhat).
Minor flaws aside, I definitely enjoyed this one. Having read Chang’s last four novels, I feel that her writing and storytelling skills continue to get better and better with each book -- though of course, I still prefer her historical novels because I love the way she brings lesser known Chinese history and culture to light. I can’t wait to see what Chang has in store for us next!
Received ARC from William Morrow via NetGalley.
In her Author’s Note, Chang mentions her love of the gothic genre as inspiration for deciding to write a gothic novel of her own, but also one that blends historical elements and aspects of her own Chinese cultural heritage. As such, in a departure from her previous novels, Chang had to hold back on the “history” aspect and instead lean more into “atmosphere” in order to bring out the “gothic” effect of the story. In this regard, I feel that Chang succeeded, as she did a good job overall incorporating the gothic trope of the mysterious and haunted old mansion, making Lennox Manor a “character” in itself. With that said however, having read my fair share of gothic novels in the past (and having studied the genre recently), I couldn’t help feeling that some of the gothic elements here were a bit too heavy-handed and deliberate to the point that some of the descriptions – especially related to the Manor and what the characters experience there -- felt a little out of place in a few spots. While this did have the effect of ratcheting up the tension, it also came across a bit forced and unnatural. Also, on a personal level, I would’ve preferred more focus on Lisan’s story line, as I found her backstory more intriguing, but that could be because I’m more of a fan of the historical than the gothic (though given the novel’s title, I have to admit to being a little surprised that Caroline’s story arc seemed to overshadow Lisan’s somewhat).
Minor flaws aside, I definitely enjoyed this one. Having read Chang’s last four novels, I feel that her writing and storytelling skills continue to get better and better with each book -- though of course, I still prefer her historical novels because I love the way she brings lesser known Chinese history and culture to light. I can’t wait to see what Chang has in store for us next!
Received ARC from William Morrow via NetGalley.
March 8, 2026
3.75 stars "A haunting Gothic novel set in 1911 China. Two young women living in a crumbling, once-grand Shanghai mansion face danger as secrets of their pasts come to light, even as the mansion’s own secret threatens the present."
Lisan becomes the secretary to a wealthy American woman, Caroline and her new husband Thomas Stanton. Lisan and Caroline immediately like one another. They both were orphans although Lisan has been well taken care of by Master Liu, the only father she's known. Caroline has money of her own and she is afraid Mason, Thomas's drunk uncle, will try to get his hands on as he is a failed businessman.
After moving in to Lennox Manor for her job, Lisan is plagued with nightmares and eerie visions of a woman in red outside on the grounds. The manor is crumbling and inhabited by a ghost that speaks to Lisan. It seems to be its own character, wanting something from her. To complicate matters, Masako Kyo visits the manner with outlandish allegations.
I enjoyed this book full of secret identities, a handsome gardener, Chinese history and Gothic vibes. I recommend this for those who enjoy historical fiction with a little mystery and myth.
Many thanks to NetGalley, UpLit Reads, William Morrow and Janie Chang for the gifted advance reader's copy and finished copy. All opinions are my own.
Lisan becomes the secretary to a wealthy American woman, Caroline and her new husband Thomas Stanton. Lisan and Caroline immediately like one another. They both were orphans although Lisan has been well taken care of by Master Liu, the only father she's known. Caroline has money of her own and she is afraid Mason, Thomas's drunk uncle, will try to get his hands on as he is a failed businessman.
After moving in to Lennox Manor for her job, Lisan is plagued with nightmares and eerie visions of a woman in red outside on the grounds. The manor is crumbling and inhabited by a ghost that speaks to Lisan. It seems to be its own character, wanting something from her. To complicate matters, Masako Kyo visits the manner with outlandish allegations.
I enjoyed this book full of secret identities, a handsome gardener, Chinese history and Gothic vibes. I recommend this for those who enjoy historical fiction with a little mystery and myth.
Many thanks to NetGalley, UpLit Reads, William Morrow and Janie Chang for the gifted advance reader's copy and finished copy. All opinions are my own.
March 19, 2026
Fourth Princess is a lovely combination of historical fiction, what Janie Chang is know for, and gothic mystery. The reveals caught me by surprise in two instances (while three others were what I expected). This is, however, a good enough ratio (without having anything too convenient happen) that I can say it was an enjoyable story overall. My favourite points are, of course, the most gothic ones. I loved the mansion and its atmosphere, our ghost, and learning more about Chinese superstition. I know the Chinese tend to be very superstitious and Chang certainly portrays that here; as well as shares tidbits of culture including wards to deter the bad and how much ‘evil’ a Chinese household staff can endure before heading for the hills.
A stand out moment for me is the diary entries of our absent, but still close to the narrative, Rosaline. It’s impressive that the diary entries give enough sense of our missing woman that I felt she was a character all on her own; even though we never actually interact with her. I also adored the many languages, and mixture of Western influence on China during this time period which Rosaline seems to embody (as does the crazy Princess). Although, it reminded me how much I hate that Western culture is always so pushy about its ‘ways’ and so disrespectful of others. I try to take solace as a Canadian (Chang is also Canadian) that we embrace many cultures here; but I know we are also suppressing so much more than we should.
I was glad to get a brief overview of the politics of the day. While on one hand it might have been nice to gain a better understand of the political chaos; I’m also glad not to as it was complex and I felt I got just enough to feel the anxiety of our characters living on the cusp of a great change. If you are interested in the intricacy of the politics as the last Emperor falls you may be disappointed as this story mostly revolves around the mansion mystery and our characters personal experiences.
Overall I feel this is a solid mixture of historical fiction (with many facts throughout as Chang always has) and a flavour for the gothic. It’s not quite at the same gothic level as Silvia Moreno-Garcia but it was just enough gothic atmosphere to keep me going. It helps I was pleasantly surprised at the complexity of the ending reveals. I will confess, I might give this only four stars if not for adoring Chang and having met her whilst in the midst of reading this book. There is always something a bit special about hearing the author talk, in person, about what inspired their book and why they chose the people and topic they did.
All caveats aside, you won’t go wrong with this read if you want some gothic mystery threaded with the clash of Chinese and Western culture of the day. And be sure to savour the diary entries as they truly speak out from the page in a captivating way.
A stand out moment for me is the diary entries of our absent, but still close to the narrative, Rosaline. It’s impressive that the diary entries give enough sense of our missing woman that I felt she was a character all on her own; even though we never actually interact with her. I also adored the many languages, and mixture of Western influence on China during this time period which Rosaline seems to embody (as does the crazy Princess). Although, it reminded me how much I hate that Western culture is always so pushy about its ‘ways’ and so disrespectful of others. I try to take solace as a Canadian (Chang is also Canadian) that we embrace many cultures here; but I know we are also suppressing so much more than we should.
I was glad to get a brief overview of the politics of the day. While on one hand it might have been nice to gain a better understand of the political chaos; I’m also glad not to as it was complex and I felt I got just enough to feel the anxiety of our characters living on the cusp of a great change. If you are interested in the intricacy of the politics as the last Emperor falls you may be disappointed as this story mostly revolves around the mansion mystery and our characters personal experiences.
Overall I feel this is a solid mixture of historical fiction (with many facts throughout as Chang always has) and a flavour for the gothic. It’s not quite at the same gothic level as Silvia Moreno-Garcia but it was just enough gothic atmosphere to keep me going. It helps I was pleasantly surprised at the complexity of the ending reveals. I will confess, I might give this only four stars if not for adoring Chang and having met her whilst in the midst of reading this book. There is always something a bit special about hearing the author talk, in person, about what inspired their book and why they chose the people and topic they did.
All caveats aside, you won’t go wrong with this read if you want some gothic mystery threaded with the clash of Chinese and Western culture of the day. And be sure to savour the diary entries as they truly speak out from the page in a captivating way.
February 15, 2026
I really enjoy Chang's books, and this one was such a treat to read. Transportive and a true homage to gothic novels! My appreciation for its contours is strong after reading Lady Audley's Secret. I liked the main character and the twists (even if I guessed most, though not all, of them! I've read too many books to be surprised!). The Library of Legends is still my favorite of Chang's, but she is a must-read author for me. I can count on her for a good, memorable, interesting story.
Content warnings: the usual gothic suspects but nothing described in too much detail
Content warnings: the usual gothic suspects but nothing described in too much detail
March 6, 2026
The Fourth Princess I was very excited for, it was blurbed as a “gothic novel of old Shanghai” so I couldn’t wait to get to this new historical fiction release. But it ended up just being okay for me, I expected a bit more and wanted it to lean into the gothic vibes a little harder than it ever does.
This takes place in 1911, we follow Lisan who is hired as a secretary to Caroline, a wealthy American who is the new mistress of Lennox Manor in Shanghai. Lisan was adopted when she was young and was taken care of but never felt treated fully as family, but not quite the staff either. She ends up finding a diary in the home she’s working in and things unfold as she starts to see/hear things about owners, former residents, the woman she’s working for now, etc.
Definitely a slower story and the twists when they did come were predictable, I found the start of the story and some of the characters interesting, but then the ending was lackluster too. I could definitely see how classic gothic stories have inspired the author as she mentions in her author’s note at the end. The writing was good so I would read more from this author in the future, this one was just lacking overall for me.
This takes place in 1911, we follow Lisan who is hired as a secretary to Caroline, a wealthy American who is the new mistress of Lennox Manor in Shanghai. Lisan was adopted when she was young and was taken care of but never felt treated fully as family, but not quite the staff either. She ends up finding a diary in the home she’s working in and things unfold as she starts to see/hear things about owners, former residents, the woman she’s working for now, etc.
Definitely a slower story and the twists when they did come were predictable, I found the start of the story and some of the characters interesting, but then the ending was lackluster too. I could definitely see how classic gothic stories have inspired the author as she mentions in her author’s note at the end. The writing was good so I would read more from this author in the future, this one was just lacking overall for me.
February 17, 2026
Slooowwwwww burn leading to a stellar set of predictable twists that ultimately fell just a bit flat, The Fourth Princess kept me turning pages just to see what was coming, but then when all the excitement happened, it felt rushed and underwhelming. Worth a read, but I would’ve loved more.
September 20, 2025
I like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me a read.
This was my first book by this author (I was familiar with her) and I really enjoyed it. I love Chinese culture, so having a Gothic(!) taking place in China is lovely. And, during a time where Europeans were making establishments along the river in various cities, allowing the Western style mansions to come into play.
I liked that you had two narratives you were following - the rich, American female and the orphan Chinese girl. Their paths cross when our Chinese female goes to work for the rich American. But strange things are happening in both of their lives which allows both narratives' villains to overlap. I had suspected about the fourth princess, but the other reveal had me surprised too.
I'll rate it down because I felt that the ending was anti-climatic for one of the females. I also felt Yao was set up to be a love interest but didn't do jack diddly. So don't expect a real romance with him and our Chinese female lead.
All in all, entertaining and I was happy I read it. A fine Gothic addition.
This was my first book by this author (I was familiar with her) and I really enjoyed it. I love Chinese culture, so having a Gothic(!) taking place in China is lovely. And, during a time where Europeans were making establishments along the river in various cities, allowing the Western style mansions to come into play.
I liked that you had two narratives you were following - the rich, American female and the orphan Chinese girl. Their paths cross when our Chinese female goes to work for the rich American. But strange things are happening in both of their lives which allows both narratives' villains to overlap. I had suspected about the fourth princess, but the other reveal had me surprised too.
I'll rate it down because I felt that the ending was anti-climatic for one of the females. I also felt Yao was set up to be a love interest but didn't do jack diddly. So don't expect a real romance with him and our Chinese female lead.
All in all, entertaining and I was happy I read it. A fine Gothic addition.
April 10, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, William Morrow and Janie Chang for this ARC. The following is my honest review.
Let me just say that the gothic, eerie atmosphere is genuinely so well done. The setting really stood out to me which is something I always love in a story. It added this moody, slightly haunting layer that kept me wanting to stay in the world.
But if I’m being honest I struggled a lot with the reading experience overall. There were so many moving parts had me feeling mostly just confused. But less in a oooh I’m curious way and more a frustrating idk what to pay attention to or even wonder about way. I even tried restarting and just going with the flow, trusting that things would click later, but by the time they started to come together, I still felt kind of disconnected.
I can potentially see the vision here so I think this is one of those books that could really work for some readers, especially if you enjoy slower layered story where everything unfolds gradually. For me though it felt like it was doing a little too much at once and I had a hard time staying in the moment/on the page. Yaknowwhatimsayin?!
I also kept wishing it leaned further into the thriller side. The mood was there but I wanted more tension to match that gothic eerie energy.
Ultimately I’d say around 1.5–2 stars but I can definitely see other readers having a much better experience with it.
February 20, 2026
Very enjoyable book. I love historical mystery and this book fits me very well. Set in 1920’s China, there is both a Chinese and an American woman whose stories are intertwined. It did not make the ending too easy to guess, and also evoked a gothic style similar to “Rebecca.”
There was not too much actual history in the novel, which was unfortunate because I love reading about historical events. The author wrote that she had another version that included more history, but the book then lost its slightly spooky tone.
This is the only book by Jamie Chang that I’ve read- well, there was the co-authored book by her and Kate Quinn. I enjoyed her writing style and plotting, and would definitely recommend this for anyone interested in historical fiction with a bit of a spooky twist.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
There was not too much actual history in the novel, which was unfortunate because I love reading about historical events. The author wrote that she had another version that included more history, but the book then lost its slightly spooky tone.
This is the only book by Jamie Chang that I’ve read- well, there was the co-authored book by her and Kate Quinn. I enjoyed her writing style and plotting, and would definitely recommend this for anyone interested in historical fiction with a bit of a spooky twist.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
February 11, 2026
Thank you @uplitreads and William Morrow for providing me with an advanced reader's copy.
The story takes place in Shanghai in the 1910s, a fascinating and layered period in China’s history when foreign influence and cultural tensions shaped daily life. The setting alone makes this novel compelling, but it’s the characters and gothic atmosphere that truly make it unforgettable.
Lisan, an orphan taken in by Master Liu, has been given shelter and an education — yet she has never felt she truly belongs. When she finishes school and longs to continue her studies, she’s denied that opportunity. Determined to build a future for herself, she seeks employment and ultimately finds work with a foreign family on the outskirts of Shanghai.
Caroline Stanton is newly married and adjusting to life in a city far from her New York roots. The sole survivor of a devastating train crash that killed her entire family, she marries Thomas — the man who rescued her — and follows him to Shanghai, where he plans to invest in the railway industry. As they settle into his uncle’s home, secrets begin to surface and the city itself feels heavy with history and mystery.
The novel is filled with layered secrets, unexpected turns, and a slow-building tension that kept me completely engaged. The gothic tone is beautifully executed — eerie, atmospheric, and quietly unsettling, with whispers of ghosts, hidden truths, and murder threading through the story.
“An atmospheric, gothic masterpiece that lingers long after the final page — haunting, immersive, and utterly unforgettable.”
I was deeply invested in both Lisan and Caroline and found myself thinking about this book long after I finished it. It also left me wanting to learn more about Shanghai in the early 1900s — always the mark of strong historical fiction. This was my first book by this author, and it certainly won’t be my last.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The story takes place in Shanghai in the 1910s, a fascinating and layered period in China’s history when foreign influence and cultural tensions shaped daily life. The setting alone makes this novel compelling, but it’s the characters and gothic atmosphere that truly make it unforgettable.
Lisan, an orphan taken in by Master Liu, has been given shelter and an education — yet she has never felt she truly belongs. When she finishes school and longs to continue her studies, she’s denied that opportunity. Determined to build a future for herself, she seeks employment and ultimately finds work with a foreign family on the outskirts of Shanghai.
Caroline Stanton is newly married and adjusting to life in a city far from her New York roots. The sole survivor of a devastating train crash that killed her entire family, she marries Thomas — the man who rescued her — and follows him to Shanghai, where he plans to invest in the railway industry. As they settle into his uncle’s home, secrets begin to surface and the city itself feels heavy with history and mystery.
The novel is filled with layered secrets, unexpected turns, and a slow-building tension that kept me completely engaged. The gothic tone is beautifully executed — eerie, atmospheric, and quietly unsettling, with whispers of ghosts, hidden truths, and murder threading through the story.
“An atmospheric, gothic masterpiece that lingers long after the final page — haunting, immersive, and utterly unforgettable.”
I was deeply invested in both Lisan and Caroline and found myself thinking about this book long after I finished it. It also left me wanting to learn more about Shanghai in the early 1900s — always the mark of strong historical fiction. This was my first book by this author, and it certainly won’t be my last.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 27, 2026
4.4
*Thank you to Uplit Reads for including me on this tour!
Promises, once-grand, upended…
1911 Shanghai. Americans Caroline and Thomas are the new residents of Lennox Manor. Uncle Mason is involved in a railway venture and wants Thomas to be his business partner. He also lives at Lennox Manor.
Orphaned Lisan Liu has just been hired as a secretary by the new mistress of the manor. She has an unknown-to-her secret, mysterious past.
Both women navigate secrets and danger. Blackmail, hidden identities, iffy business deals, and MURDER are part of the deception.
“Appearances can be deceptive and true character is often hidden.”
THOUGHTS:
*Clash between tradition and modernness. I liked reading about the Chinese culture/beliefs.
*Vivid descriptions. Especially the description of the decaying manor. The manor was like another character.
*The deception was a “persistent pattern of behavior.” Many methods used to manipulate perceptions.
*Don’t skip the author’s note. Fascinating & informative.
*I read/enjoyed The Porcelain Moon by this author. I also have the book The Phoenix Crown but have not read it yet.
*Thank you to Uplit Reads for including me on this tour!
Promises, once-grand, upended…
1911 Shanghai. Americans Caroline and Thomas are the new residents of Lennox Manor. Uncle Mason is involved in a railway venture and wants Thomas to be his business partner. He also lives at Lennox Manor.
Orphaned Lisan Liu has just been hired as a secretary by the new mistress of the manor. She has an unknown-to-her secret, mysterious past.
Both women navigate secrets and danger. Blackmail, hidden identities, iffy business deals, and MURDER are part of the deception.
“Appearances can be deceptive and true character is often hidden.”
THOUGHTS:
*Clash between tradition and modernness. I liked reading about the Chinese culture/beliefs.
*Vivid descriptions. Especially the description of the decaying manor. The manor was like another character.
*The deception was a “persistent pattern of behavior.” Many methods used to manipulate perceptions.
*Don’t skip the author’s note. Fascinating & informative.
*I read/enjoyed The Porcelain Moon by this author. I also have the book The Phoenix Crown but have not read it yet.
January 18, 2026
Ultimately, I was disappointed in this book. I enjoyed Lisan's character; I enjoyed Caroline Stanton's character (until I didn't). And I enjoyed the storyline focused on Lisan, her guardian, her background and the Chinese superstitions and beliefs. What I didn't enjoy was the mystery and drama involving the Stanton family. Yes, they were all intertwined, but it quickly became more of a distraction than a necessary part of the story. I really enjoy this author, and I wanted another "Three Souls." So some of my disappointment may be coming from too high of expectations. Because this is not a BAD book. It's just less than I wanted from this author.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2026
I was promised gothic.
March 18, 2026
Very well written.
Shanghai, 1911. Lisan Liu is hired as secretary to wealthy American Caroline Stanton, mistress of Lennox Manor . With a. dark past due to a previous owner’s suicide, and Lisan starts having nightmares of a woman in red.
Caroline has secrets she can’t afford to have exposed.
Then Lisan’s future is upended when she learns the truth about her past, and why her identity has been hidden all these years.
Shanghai, 1911. Lisan Liu is hired as secretary to wealthy American Caroline Stanton, mistress of Lennox Manor . With a. dark past due to a previous owner’s suicide, and Lisan starts having nightmares of a woman in red.
Caroline has secrets she can’t afford to have exposed.
Then Lisan’s future is upended when she learns the truth about her past, and why her identity has been hidden all these years.
February 27, 2026
Atmospheric, terrific mystery, blend of gothic horror, historical depth, and mystery
Set in 1911 Shanghai, this atmospheric gothic mystery unfolds inside a crumbling, haunted mansion with a tragic past. Caroline Stratton and her Chinese secretary, Lisan Liu, both arrive at Lennox Manor carrying secrets of their own, and as their histories unravel, the house’s dark legacy refuses to stay buried.
I loved the blend of gothic tension, Chinese folklore, and historical depth. The ghostly elements add just enough chill without being gory or overly scary. Perfect if you want eerie vibes without full horror. The slow-burn pacing builds beautifully, with a couple of well-timed twists that keep the story moving.
Final Verdict: 👍 Slow-burn tension. Gothic intrigue. Rich folklore and history. A beautifully layered historical mystery.
Set in 1911 Shanghai, this atmospheric gothic mystery unfolds inside a crumbling, haunted mansion with a tragic past. Caroline Stratton and her Chinese secretary, Lisan Liu, both arrive at Lennox Manor carrying secrets of their own, and as their histories unravel, the house’s dark legacy refuses to stay buried.
I loved the blend of gothic tension, Chinese folklore, and historical depth. The ghostly elements add just enough chill without being gory or overly scary. Perfect if you want eerie vibes without full horror. The slow-burn pacing builds beautifully, with a couple of well-timed twists that keep the story moving.
Final Verdict: 👍 Slow-burn tension. Gothic intrigue. Rich folklore and history. A beautifully layered historical mystery.
January 12, 2026
A haunting tale set in a world filled with family secrets and deceit, set in 1911 Shanghai. The Fourth Princess is a tale rooted in the traditional sense of the gothic novel, filled with eeriness, secrets, and a wonderfully depicted decaying mansion, but in a nontraditional setting, which I loved, and I learnt a lot regarding this era of Chinese history. Paced well, there was a thrilling level of suspense throughout. I highly recommend reading the author's notes at the end, because they really do add an extra level to the novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an eArc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an eArc in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2026
In Janie Chang style, The Fourth Princess lets readers explore the mystery and ambience of a long ago time.
I liked the setting of Shanghai because it was on the edge of change and I visited there 15 years ago and walked along the Bund.
I was happy with how Lisan’s story unfolds and is resolved.
I looked at the pictures on Chang’s website about the inspiration for the mansion.
One of the main characters turned out to be a horrible person and I was waiting in vain for that person to receive their comeuppance.
It’s called a gothic story but I didn’t get that ambience from the book.
Thanks NetGalley, Edelweiss, William Morrow, and Uplitreads for both hard and digital copies.
I liked the setting of Shanghai because it was on the edge of change and I visited there 15 years ago and walked along the Bund.
I was happy with how Lisan’s story unfolds and is resolved.
I looked at the pictures on Chang’s website about the inspiration for the mansion.
One of the main characters turned out to be a horrible person and I was waiting in vain for that person to receive their comeuppance.
It’s called a gothic story but I didn’t get that ambience from the book.
Thanks NetGalley, Edelweiss, William Morrow, and Uplitreads for both hard and digital copies.
April 23, 2026
This was a slow burn, and for the most part, I could guess where the plot was going. There was an unexpected twist or two, but nothing particularly surprising happened. I admit, I expected a bit more suspense and mystery from a gothic novel.
Both Lisan and Caroline had interesting storylines, each an orphan trying to find her place in the world and create a life of her own choosing. Unfortunately, Rosalie's storyline was not compelling, and if not for Lisan's fixation, I would have completely forgotten about her.
The ending was about as expected, but not nearly as satisfying as I hoped it would be.
Both Lisan and Caroline had interesting storylines, each an orphan trying to find her place in the world and create a life of her own choosing. Unfortunately, Rosalie's storyline was not compelling, and if not for Lisan's fixation, I would have completely forgotten about her.
The ending was about as expected, but not nearly as satisfying as I hoped it would be.
March 2, 2026
This was my first novel by Chang, but certainly will not be my last. The writing style was smooth and lushly descriptive for story telling. I was transported to 1911 Shanghai with every page. Visualizing myself in the draughty, crumbling mansion alongside the characters.
This was a striking balance of historical fiction, paired with enough gothic thriller that it kept me hooked, surprise after surprise arrived. None of them anticipated. I enjoyed this and was sad to see it end. Chang did an excellent job of tying it up nicely for the readers. 5 ⭐️
This was a striking balance of historical fiction, paired with enough gothic thriller that it kept me hooked, surprise after surprise arrived. None of them anticipated. I enjoyed this and was sad to see it end. Chang did an excellent job of tying it up nicely for the readers. 5 ⭐️
March 5, 2026
3.5 stars
This book is successful in evoking Gothic themes and setting. The plot moves fast and keeps the reader invested. It was definitely interesting and worth a read. I am interested in reading more Janie Chang books in the future, as this was my first.
My visualization of The Fourth Princess was shaped by Republican Era Chinese dramas, which I have recently been in the mood for. However, this book takes place just before the Republic Era, but I imagine there would be some visual similarities.
This book is successful in evoking Gothic themes and setting. The plot moves fast and keeps the reader invested. It was definitely interesting and worth a read. I am interested in reading more Janie Chang books in the future, as this was my first.
My visualization of The Fourth Princess was shaped by Republican Era Chinese dramas, which I have recently been in the mood for. However, this book takes place just before the Republic Era, but I imagine there would be some visual similarities.
April 12, 2026
Read this for my book club and had mixed feelings about it. First, I think the mystery aspect of this novel would have worked better with only Lisan's POV instead of both. The writing told me a lot about what people were thinking but didn't really use much nuance or implications. One thing that happened multiple times was that a secret would be mentioned - and then immediately explained in full two pages later. I want the secrets and mysteries to simmer a little! I understood the characters but still would have liked to delve deeper into their minds instead of just being told their intentions.
I did like the conversation about class/race and what it was like being a woman in 1911, as both Lisan and Caroline lead very different lives but also have their similarities. The historical aspects were also interesting, and I learned a lot about China in 1911, but even that could have been expanded more. Overall, not a bad book to read but it did leave me wanting something else and I think some narrative restructuring would have made this an easier read for me.
I did like the conversation about class/race and what it was like being a woman in 1911, as both Lisan and Caroline lead very different lives but also have their similarities. The historical aspects were also interesting, and I learned a lot about China in 1911, but even that could have been expanded more. Overall, not a bad book to read but it did leave me wanting something else and I think some narrative restructuring would have made this an easier read for me.
April 12, 2026
I have read several of Janie Chang’s books and I found this one the easiest to read.
Several of the others have been very heavy with the history, customs and legends of China - all very interesting since I know very little of China.
She calls this a Gothic novel, and I don’t really understand what that means. I think it has to do with the amount of imbedded history, but “in gothic fiction the focus has to be the danger from within: the location and its residents”.
I guess she has achieved that, as mush of the history, customs and legends in previous books are not at all obvious in this one. The setting and story are much more modern and perhaps Western. Regardless, a very good read!
Several of the others have been very heavy with the history, customs and legends of China - all very interesting since I know very little of China.
She calls this a Gothic novel, and I don’t really understand what that means. I think it has to do with the amount of imbedded history, but “in gothic fiction the focus has to be the danger from within: the location and its residents”.
I guess she has achieved that, as mush of the history, customs and legends in previous books are not at all obvious in this one. The setting and story are much more modern and perhaps Western. Regardless, a very good read!
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
3/5 ⭐
"China stands on the edge and any small nudge could tip it in any direction. Any one person, any one incident."
This novel is a quick, approachable historical fiction that’s easy to slip into—and just as easy to finish. Its fast pacing comes largely from the book’s surface-level exploration of its themes and a plot that unfolds in a very straightforward, often predictable way.
The story follows two women whose lives gradually become intertwined: Lisan, a Chinese woman orphaned at a young age and raised under the patronage of a wealthy man, and Caroline, a white American woman newly arrived in Shanghai with her husband. Lisan is hired as Caroline’s secretary, though their relationship slowly evolves into something more personal and emotionally layered than a simple employer–employee dynamic. Through their connection, we’re introduced to early 1900s Shanghai—specifically the affluent, European-influenced social circles—and to the long, shadowed history of the manor where they reside. Both women begin to uncover truths about their pasts alongside the secrets embedded in the house itself.
While the setting and premise are intriguing, the execution leaves much to be desired. The novel flirts with light gothic elements, but the atmosphere never fully deepens into true mystery or suspense. One of the biggest drawbacks is how predictable the story is; many major plot points are easy to spot early on, which dulls the emotional impact and sense of discovery. Because of the writing style and the relatively gentle handling of complex themes, the book often feels like it might be better suited to a young adult audience rather than adult historical fiction.
That said, The Fourth Princess works well as a palate cleanser between heavier reads. It was a welcome breather after something more dense and demanding (Babel for me), and it doesn’t require much mental effort to get through. Overall, it’s a pleasant but unremarkable novel—comforting and accessible, but unlikely to linger long after the final page.
"China stands on the edge and any small nudge could tip it in any direction. Any one person, any one incident."
This novel is a quick, approachable historical fiction that’s easy to slip into—and just as easy to finish. Its fast pacing comes largely from the book’s surface-level exploration of its themes and a plot that unfolds in a very straightforward, often predictable way.
The story follows two women whose lives gradually become intertwined: Lisan, a Chinese woman orphaned at a young age and raised under the patronage of a wealthy man, and Caroline, a white American woman newly arrived in Shanghai with her husband. Lisan is hired as Caroline’s secretary, though their relationship slowly evolves into something more personal and emotionally layered than a simple employer–employee dynamic. Through their connection, we’re introduced to early 1900s Shanghai—specifically the affluent, European-influenced social circles—and to the long, shadowed history of the manor where they reside. Both women begin to uncover truths about their pasts alongside the secrets embedded in the house itself.
While the setting and premise are intriguing, the execution leaves much to be desired. The novel flirts with light gothic elements, but the atmosphere never fully deepens into true mystery or suspense. One of the biggest drawbacks is how predictable the story is; many major plot points are easy to spot early on, which dulls the emotional impact and sense of discovery. Because of the writing style and the relatively gentle handling of complex themes, the book often feels like it might be better suited to a young adult audience rather than adult historical fiction.
That said, The Fourth Princess works well as a palate cleanser between heavier reads. It was a welcome breather after something more dense and demanding (Babel for me), and it doesn’t require much mental effort to get through. Overall, it’s a pleasant but unremarkable novel—comforting and accessible, but unlikely to linger long after the final page.
April 17, 2026
I first discovered Janie Chang while she was touring Canada with Kate Quinn, and she was such a pleasure to listen to that I knew I had to try her books. I ended up listening to the audiobook of The Fourth Princess and absolutely loved it. I especially appreciated how she developed the main characters, along with the rich atmosphere and vivid setting of the novel.
March 23, 2026
This didn't hit the mark for me. It wasn't the moody Gothic tale I wanted. I think it was trying to do way too many things. The prose dragged a bit and this book constantly made me fall asleep while reading.
April 1, 2026
✨ALC Review✨
A historical haunting, rich in history and drama.
You won't expect the twists and turns this takes, as nothing is as it seems.
A bit of a gothic feeling, with lots of mystery and suspense added in.
A historical haunting, rich in history and drama.
You won't expect the twists and turns this takes, as nothing is as it seems.
A bit of a gothic feeling, with lots of mystery and suspense added in.
April 22, 2026
Gothic style novels aren't something that I read very often. So this one was a good place to start. The beginning was a little bit slow, so it took me a while to get into the story. Once the pace started to pick up it was interesting and I couldn't wait to see what happened next. One thing that I liked was that it was set during a time period that I don't read very often and in a country that I haven't read many books from.
March 8, 2026
This is my first gothic style book I’ve read and I really enjoyed it.
I also haven’t read anything that is set in China. I was a nice read.
I also haven’t read anything that is set in China. I was a nice read.
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