An Immersive Journey Back to 1939 Shanghai

Joseph Kanon’s artful and compelling new thriller, ‘Shanghai,’ transports readers to the unique and tumultuous setting of 1930s Shanghai, the only city that welcomed Jewish refugees without a visa. Known for his elegantly written World War II thrillers, Kanon impresses once again with this suspenseful and deeply immersive novel.

Characters on the Brink of Despair

The story begins in 1939, with Daniel Lohr, a German Jew, aboard the SS Raffaello, a luxury liner departing from Italy. Like many other Jewish passengers, Daniel is seeking safety and a fresh start in Shanghai after the devastating events of Kristallnacht. Kanon captures the palpable tension and relief as the characters bid farewell to a Europe on the brink of destruction.

The Uniqueness of Shanghai

Shanghai served as a haven for approximately 20,000 European Jewish refugees during World War II, and Kanon’s depiction of the city is both meticulous and evocative. The author brings to life the vibrant and chaotic streets, the diverse refugee community, and the complexities of existing in a city that stands as the lone refuge free from visa requirements.

A Master of Historical Suspense

As an internationally bestselling author and an Edgar Award-winner, Joseph Kanon’s narrative techniques in ‘Shanghai’ are both taut and atmospheric. Readers will find themselves drawn into a world of danger, intrigue, and the desperate pursuit of safety. Kanon adeptly balances historical accuracy with thrilling storytelling, making ‘Shanghai’ a standout addition to his impressive body of work.