Shanghai, 1937 — where war rages, love collides, and dreams unravel under foreign lights.

As Japanese forces close in and the Republic teeters on collapse, young Chinese clerk Harry finds himself torn between duty, desire, and identity in the cosmopolitan chaos of Shanghai's International Settlement. Working for a wealthy British businessman, Harry sets his sights on Miss Mary — the man's privileged daughter, raised to believe colonialism is a gift.

But while Harry pursues ambition and affection in high society, his past follows him from Suzhou. Pan Yi, his childhood friend and quiet admirer, arrives in the city with two dreams: to win Harry's heart, and to become the next Ruan Lingyu — the silent film star who inspired a generation.

As bombs fall and loyalties shift, Harry must choose between the woman he chases, the one who truly loves him, and the survival of a family caught in the storm.

📖 Shanghailand is a poignant historical romance set against the backdrop of war, culture clash, and forbidden love in 1930s China — a city where no one knows what tomorrow will bring.

For fans of Lisa See, Eileen Chang, and literary wartime fiction with heart and heat.