Enigma Of China An Inspector Chen Novel Qiu Xiaolong
The Plot
Enigma of China is a novel by Qiu Xiaolong, which is part of the Inspector Chen series. The plot of the novel revolves around Inspector Chen, a police detective in Shanghai, China. Inspector Chen is tasked with investigating the death of a corrupt senior official, whose body is found in a canal. The investigation is complicated by the fact that the official had many enemies, and also by the political climate in China at the time.
The Characters
One of the strengths of the Inspector Chen series is the well-drawn characters. Inspector Chen is a complex character, who is torn between his loyalty to the Communist Party and his own sense of justice. He is also a poet, and this aspect of his character adds a unique dimension to the story. Other characters in the novel include Detective Yu, who is Inspector Chen's colleague and friend, and Chen's love interest, Ling.
The Setting
The setting of Enigma of China is Shanghai, China. Qiu Xiaolong does an excellent job of bringing the city to life, and the reader gets a sense of the bustling metropolis that is Shanghai. The novel is also set during a time of political upheaval in China, which adds an extra layer of tension to the story.
The Themes
Enigma of China deals with a number of themes, including corruption, loyalty, justice, and love. The novel explores these themes in a nuanced way, and the reader is left with a deeper understanding of these issues. The novel also deals with the tension between traditional Chinese culture and the modern world, as well as the tension between the individual and the state.
The Writing Style
Qiu Xiaolong's writing style is engaging and descriptive. He has a knack for creating vivid characters and bringing the setting to life. The novel is also well-paced, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged.
The Reception
Enigma of China was well-received by critics and readers alike. It was praised for its well-drawn characters, engaging plot, and vivid setting. The novel was also noted for its exploration of political and social issues in China.
The Author
Qiu Xiaolong is a Chinese-American poet, literary translator, and novelist. He is best known for his Inspector Chen series, which has been translated into more than 20 languages. Qiu Xiaolong was born in Shanghai, China, and later moved to the United States, where he currently resides.
The Conclusion
Enigma of China is a well-written and engaging novel that is sure to appeal to fans of crime fiction and literary fiction alike. Qiu Xiaolong's skillful writing and well-drawn characters make this novel a standout in the Inspector Chen series. If you're looking for a novel that will transport you to another time and place, Enigma of China is definitely worth checking out.