Chloe Gong's A Foul Lady Fortune is a captivating blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and espionage set in 1930s Shanghai. The novel follows Rosalind Lang, an immortal spy grappling with her past while navigating political intrigue and a series of murders tied to Japan's invasion plans. Partnered with the charming and enigmatic Orion Hong, Rosalind must pose as his wife, leading to a complex interplay of tension and unexpected emotions. Gong masterfully weaves rich historical detail with supernatural elements, creating a gripping narrative filled with complex characters, suspenseful twists, and a vivid portrayal of a city on the brink of war.

This book came out like 2 years ago and I am here now, in 2024?
Needless to say it was a nice book, my first by Chloe Gong, so I think I need to read her previous works before reading anything else in the series (￣▽￣*)ゞ

Disclaimer: e-Arc provided by Hodder & Stoughton via Net Galley for Review. All thoughts are my own. My thanks to Hodder & Stoughton, for providing me with the arc for review.

Plot
This book takes place years after the events of the Our Violent Delights Duology. It follows Rosalind Lang who goes undercover as a married couple with Orion Hong. They are both investigating mysterious deaths in the city.

Thoughts
I’m giving this book 3.5 Stars.

I liked Rosalind and Orion and enjoyed their dynamic, they are both slow to trust and use to working alone as spies. I loved how they came together over the course of the book as they investigated.

OMG this book!

Really, any Chloe Gong’s book. I haven’t come yet to read a book of hers and find something negative to say.

As always the plot is a gem. It is an intricately woven mosaic of bits and bobs, remarkably written and presented to the reader. I don’t really know what to praise first. The amazing prose? The time invested in research? The sensitivity and cleverness in which she breaches serious matters with a dose of truth in all the creativity? It’s just really admirable.

Her characters couldn’t have been more interesting even if they were real. So thoroughly developed that they imprint in the reader’s mind.

The insight in political, social and historical matters worth mentioning too.

I could go on stating every single thing that make this book a must read but I will spoil the fun along the way so I will just say that I simply loved this book!

In "Foul Lady Fortune," the characters truly shine and drive the story forward. Rosalind, who was a secondary character in Chloe Gong's earlier books, takes centre stage here. Her journey from a betrayed and hurt individual to a competent spy is captivating. Rosalind’s complex personality, moulded by her family’s betrayal and the intricacies of her relationships, provides a deep well of emotional resonance. Her transformation into an immortal assassin grappling with guilt and a desire for redemption adds layers to her character that are both intriguing and relatable. The inclusion of queer characters, with Rosalind herself embodying bisexuality, demisexuality, and aroace identities among the cast, is a refreshing and much-needed representation that resonates with many readers.

Orion, on the other hand, is a character that quickly endears himself to the readers. His witty, snarky persona is a delightful contrast to Rosalind's more serious demeanour. Yet, beneath his charm lies a well of pain and disappointment from family betrayals and the weight of his responsibilities. His dynamic with Rosalind is one of the book’s highlights; their banter and growing mutual respect add a layer of depth to their relationship that is both enjoyable and moving. Orion’s backstory, filled with family complexities and personal struggles, makes him a multidimensional character who complements Rosalind perfectly.

The supporting cast is equally compelling. Characters like Celia, Rosalind’s triplet sister turned Communist spy, and Alisa Montagova, a young but skilled spy, add richness to the narrative. Each character brings something unique to the table, contributing to the story's depth and complexity. The secondary characters are not just background figures but integral parts of the plot, each with their own stories and development arcs that intertwine with the main narrative in meaningful ways.

The plot of "Foul Lady Fortune" is an intricate tapestry of intrigue, espionage, and personal drama set against the backdrop of 1930s Shanghai. The story follows Rosalind Lang, who, after being saved from death by an experimental drug, becomes immortal. Her unique abilities to heal and her inability to age or sleep make her a fascinating protagonist. Plagued by guilt and driven by a desire for redemption, she becomes an assassin for the Nationalists, codenamed Fortune. Her mission to investigate a series of murders and infiltrate a foreign society is the core of the plot.

Rosalind's partnership with Orion, where they pose as a married couple, adds another layer of complexity to the story. The dynamic between them, filled with unspoken tension and evolving trust, is both engaging and suspenseful. The plot twists and revelations about their personal lives and hidden truths keep the readers on their toes. As they navigate a world filled with political machinations and personal betrayals, their relationship becomes a focal point of the narrative, intertwining their personal growth with the larger story arc.

The narrative is driven by questions of colonisation, power, and loyalty. The backdrop of Shanghai in the 1930s, with its political turbulence and colonial tensions, provides a rich setting for the story. The layers of political intrigue and the constant dance of allegiances create a sense of ongoing tension and uncertainty. This historical context not only adds depth to the plot but also challenges the characters, forcing them to navigate a world where every decision can have far-reaching consequences.

Chloe Gong’s writing style in "Foul Lady Fortune" is both lyrical and impactful. Her prose is beautiful, with a poetic quality that enhances the storytelling. The ability to convey deep emotions and complex ideas with just a sentence is a testament to her skill as a writer. This lyrical quality is complemented by her ability to create vivid and immersive scenes, making the historical setting come alive in the minds of readers.

However, Gong’s writing style is not just about beauty; it also has a substance that resonates with readers. Her portrayal of characters and their internal struggles is nuanced and detailed, allowing readers to connect deeply with them. The humour in the book, though not universally appreciated, adds a lighter touch to the narrative, balancing the darker themes and intense emotional moments. For some, this humour may come across as cringeworthy, but it also serves to humanise the characters and make their interactions more relatable.

Critics of Gong’s previous works have noted a tendency towards overly flowery prose, but in "Foul Lady Fortune," her writing shows significant improvement. The balance between detailed introspection and plot progression is better managed, creating a more engaging and less overwhelming reading experience. This evolution in her writing style makes the book not only a continuation of her previous works but also a standalone masterpiece that can be appreciated by new and returning readers alike.

Foul Lady Fortune" tackles a range of complex and thought-provoking themes. One of the central themes is the impact of colonisation and the political dynamics of 20th-century Asia. The story delves into the lasting effects of colonialism on Shanghai and the broader region, exploring how these historical forces shape the characters' lives and motivations. This theme is woven into the fabric of the narrative, providing a rich historical context that adds depth to the story.

Another prominent theme is the nature of loyalty and betrayal. The characters are constantly navigating a web of allegiances, both personal and political. Rosalind’s struggle with her family’s betrayal and her own sense of guilt is a central aspect of her character arc. The theme of loyalty is also explored through her relationship with Orion, as they must learn to trust each other amidst a backdrop of deception and intrigue. This exploration of loyalty and betrayal adds a layer of emotional complexity to the narrative, making the characters’ journeys more compelling.

The theme of identity and self-acceptance is also significant in "Foul Lady Fortune." Rosalind’s journey towards accepting her immortal condition and using her powers for redemption reflects a deeper struggle with her own identity. The representation of queer characters and their experiences further enriches this theme, providing a nuanced look at self-discovery and acceptance. The book’s exploration of these themes not only adds depth to the characters but also resonates with readers on a personal level, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging read.

As a speculative historical thriller with strong elements of espionage and romance, "Foul Lady Fortune" fits well within the paranormal romance and historical fiction genres. The book’s unique blend of historical context, political intrigue, and supernatural elements creates a distinctive narrative that stands out in the genre. The espionage elements, with their layers of deception and intrigue, add a thrilling dimension to the story, keeping readers engaged and on edge.

The romantic subplot, while central to the narrative, is interwoven with the main plot in a way that enhances both elements. The slow-burn romance between Rosalind and Orion adds emotional depth to the story, while their individual character arcs and the larger political intrigue keep the plot dynamic and engaging. This balance between romance and plot progression is a hallmark of Gong’s writing, making her work appealing to fans of both genres.

The representation of queer characters and the exploration of complex themes such as colonisation and loyalty further enhance the book’s genre fit. These elements add a layer of depth and relevance to the story, making it more than just a historical thriller or paranormal romance. For readers who appreciate intricate plots, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, "Foul Lady Fortune" is a standout example of the genre.

Overall, "Foul Lady Fortune" has received high praise from readers and reviewers alike. Many have rated it five stars, noting its ability to pull readers out of reading slumps and captivate them with its fast-paced, well-developed plot and complex characters. The book is described as a masterpiece, with its intricate narrative, emotional depth, and beautiful writing style leaving a lasting impression on readers.

The character development, particularly Rosalind’s transformation and her dynamic with Orion, is highlighted as one of the book’s strongest aspects. The slow-burn romance and the chemistry between the characters add emotional weight to the story, making their journey compelling and deeply engaging. The inclusion of multiple points of view, including both new and returning characters, enriches the narrative and provides a broader perspective on the story’s events.

Despite some initial scepticism about Rosalind’s character from previous books, her development in this novel has won over many readers. The historical context and the exploration of themes such as colonisation and loyalty add depth to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read. "Foul Lady Fortune" is highly recommended for fans of Chloe Gong’s previous works and anyone looking for a compelling historical thriller with rich character development and intricate plots.

An enthralling retelling of Shakespeare’s "As You Like It," set in the tumultuous pre-imperial Shanghai of the 1930s. The novel follows Rosalind Lang, who becomes immortal and gains supernatural healing abilities after being saved by an experimental drug. She takes on the code name Fortune and works as an assassin for the Nationalist government, posing as a married couple with her mission partner, Orion Hong, to investigate a series of murders.

Gong masterfully intertwines Shakespearean motifs with historical events, including the Japanese invasion of China and the civil war between Communists and Nationalists. This complex backdrop enhances the narrative, highlighting themes of loyalty, betrayal, and familial strife. The characters' multifaceted relationships, including those with their fathers and siblings, mirror the intricate dynamics found in Shakespeare’s play.

The novel features slow-burn romances filled with tension and unpredictability, set against a politically charged and richly detailed historical setting. The LGBTQ+ representation is notable, with diverse characters whose identities are integral yet not the sole focus of their story arcs. While the plot can be dizzying with its numerous factions and aliases, Gong's ability to weave supernatural elements into urban fantasy makes the story captivating.

I sadly am no longer interested in YA Fantasy and don't want to post a negative review. I tried it and honestly there is NOTHING wrong with the book it's just a personal preference :)

After finally reading These Violent Delights series before this book, I went into this with lower expectations.
I've found Chloe's writing just isn't for me.
I find it hard to get invested in the characters. While the plot idea isn't bad. I just struggled to want to read it.

I think this book is the best one I've read yet from Chloe Gong. Rosalind was a brilliantly complex character and her romance with Orion was everything I wanted.

I was really intrigued by this one. It started really strong but at some point it lost me and I couldn’t tell you why.
It was a really interesting premise, I loved the mystery but it didn’t really pick up again until towards the end.

Still going to continue with the books and hope that these don’t lose me!

You really can never go wrong with Chloe Gong's work, and while I absolutely loved "These Violent Delights," I couldn't really connect with this book. It might be a me thing where I am reading it in the wrong moment, but I certainly feel like this spin-off series is not for me at this moment.

I unfortunately DNF'd this book, but I will likely pick it up at some point as I adore Chloe's books.

Thank you so much to the publishers and netgalley for this e-arc

Loved everything about this, great story, the characters were amazingly described and easy to imagine, lots of twists and turns and fast paced!

I really wanted to love this one, but just like TVD and TVE, I just really couldn't get into it. I think it's definitely time to say as much as I would love to be obsessed with Chloe's stories, the way everybody else is, they just aren't for me.

Yeah so this is definitely not for me. I think I'm coming to realize that Chloe Gong's writing is perhaps not meant for me. I loved the TVD duology but looking back I think I did because I binged both books in a day and then promptly forgot about them in a short while. I haven't really liked any of her work much post that. Not to say it's not good, but it's just not too appealing to me.

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I really enjoyed the first duology but I was scared to try this one as I didn’t love the lead when she was in that book. I am happy to say that I was as invested in the drama of this one as I was before. Chloe Gong really knows how to write angst and relationships and she had me liking characters I didn’t think I could. Very excited to read book 2.

Full review was delayed due to reviewer illness. I'll need to re-read the book to provide a full review, but star rating is accurate.

Another great chloe gong book. We saw these characters in these violent delights. So it was fun to get a longer story.

Unfortunately this one wasn't quite for me! I read These Violent Delights and really enjoyed that, so I thought I'd pick this one up too. I tried to sit down and actually start it a few times, but couldn't really get into it unfortunately. I think for now I will be putting this one down, and I'll come back to it in the future. I can't properly give it a star rating since I could not properly read it, so I will give it a 3 star average!

Absolutely loved this. Chloe Gong is by far one of my favourite authors so this was such a treat. Looking forward to more!

4.5 stars

I loved being back in this world and I really loved the spy element of this one!

I do recommend reading the These Violent Delights duology as it is referenced a bit in this one and the story follows on from the events of it too!

Honestly I didn't think I needed a spin off series based on Rosalind but I really enjoyed this one! I also loved the fake marriage trope! It was so fun watching Rosalind try and adapt to living with Orion!

Whilst I found it a little bit slow in a few points I loved the twists and turns that I never saw coming and loved being back with these characters!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.