🎙️ This month on Badass Literature Society, we dive into the mesmerizing world of These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong. Join us as we review this captivating novel that intertwines romance, rival gangs, and a mysterious presence lurking in the shadows. As always, the first part of our review is spoiler-free!
📚 Set in the vibrant backdrop of 1926 Shanghai, the city pulses with debauchery while two rival gangs spill blood on the streets, plunging Shanghai into a state of chaos. At the center of it all is Juliette Cai, an eighteen-year-old former flapper who returns to claim her place as the formidable heir of the Scarlet Gang—a network of criminals who operate above the law. Their ultimate rivals, the White Flowers, have fought against the Scarlets for generations. And caught in the tangled web of power dynamics is Roma Montagov, Juliette's first love and betrayer.
💔 But when both gangs start succumbing to a mysterious madness, tearing at their own throats, whispers of a contagion and a hidden monster grow louder. As the death toll rises, Juliette and Roma must set aside their guns and grudges, joining forces to confront the growing menace. If they fail, Shanghai will be consumed by the ruthless mayhem, leaving nothing but ruins for either gang to claim.
🌃 Drawing inspiration from the enchanting allure of 1920s Shanghai, These Violent Delights delivers a heart-stopping debut. Fans of The Last Magician and Descendant of the Crane will be swept away by this imaginative retelling of Romeo and Juliet. Prepare to be captivated by the rival gangs, the atmospheric setting, and the lurking darkness beneath the surface of the Huangpu River.
🎧 Tune in to our latest episode and join us on this thrilling literary journey through the streets of Shanghai. Discover whether These Violent Delights will leave you breathless and yearning for more!
We can't wait for you to enjoy this episode!
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