75 pages • 2 hours read
Weina Dai RandelThe Last Rose of Shanghai
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Last Rose of Shanghai, published in 2021, is a historical romance novel by Weina Dai Randel set in Japanese-occupied Shanghai from 1940-1945. It follows the love story of Aiyi Shao, a nightclub owner, and Ernest Reismann, a Jewish refugee and pianist. The narrative recounts their struggles with societal expectations and the harsh realities of war. This text includes depictions of drug addiction, domestic violence, misogyny, graphic violence, death, and racist and antisemitic language.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Last Rose of Shanghai by Weina Dai Randel intertwines romance and history, set against 1940s Shanghai. Critics praise its vivid setting and complex characters. The plot, characterized by its emotional depth, resonates well, though some find pacing uneven. Ideal for historical fiction lovers craving a blend of love and historical intrigue.
Who Should Read The Last Rose of Shanghai?
Readers captivated by the rich tapestry of wartime romance and historical fiction will relish The Last Rose of Shanghai by Weina Dai Randel. Fans of Pachinko by Min Jin Lee and The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah will appreciate the intricate storytelling and cultural depth. This novel weaves love, resilience, and tragedy in 1940s Shanghai.