• Booklist Reviews : Booklist Reviews 2020 September #1
  *Starred Review* This exciting debut brings readers to 1920s Shanghai—in the wake of the Opium Wars and the rise of communism—and an unforgettable reimagining of Romeo and Juliet where rival factions the Scarlet Gang and the White Flowers battle for financial and political control of their city. Juliette Cai, the fearless, ruthless, New York–educated heir to the Scarlets, will capture readers' hearts as she evades unwelcome advances from a shifty merchant, goes adventuring with her familial allies, and manages the rising conflicts between the Cais and their sworn enemies, the Russian Montagov family. Gong brings a high literary style and Shakespearean inspiration to a wholly unique world, from the vivid characterization of Roma Montagov and his mysterious connection to—and traumatic betrayal of—Juliette, to the banter, plot twists, and meticulous details on fashion. In addition to the expected tragic bloodshed, silver eyes have been spotted in the Huangpu River. Rumors speak of a guài (monster) that has the power to cause a suicidal madness in the people of Shanghai, and the gangs must work together to save Shanghai—and themselves. Amid the impressive world building, Gong's characters encounter vaccines in vials, xenophobic tendencies, and the interweaving of delightful Shanghainese dialogue, bringing to life a high-energy novel about how people can be monsters, too. Grades 9-12. Copyright 2020 Booklist Reviews.

Chloe Gong is a student at the University of Pennsylvania, studying English and international relations. During her breaks, she&;s either at home in New Zealand or visiting her many relatives in Shanghai. Chloe has been known to mysteriously appear when &;Romeo and Juliet is one of Shakespeare&;s best plays and doesn&;t deserve its slander in pop culture&; is chanted into a mirror three times. You can find her on Twitter @TheChloeGong or check out her website at TheChloeGong.com.