Qiu Xiaolong

Qiu Xiaolong is a Chinese-American author, poet, and literary translator. He is best known for his Inspector Chen series of detective novels, which are set in Shanghai and have been translated into several languages. Qiu's work often explores themes of political and social change in contemporary China.

Books

Ranked Books All Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Death Of A Red Heroine

    Cover of 'Death Of A Red Heroine' by Qiu Xiaolong

    "Death Of A Red Heroine" is a crime novel set in 1990s Shanghai, China. The story follows Inspector Chen Cao as he investigates the murder of a young woman, whose body is found in a canal. As Chen delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, political intrigue, and personal secrets that challenge his loyalty to the Communist Party and force him to confront the complexities of modern Chinese society. Through vivid descriptions of Shanghai's changing landscape and insightful commentary on social issues, the novel offers a captivating portrayal of a country in transition.

    The 3384th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. When Red Is Black

    Cover of 'When Red Is Black' by Qiu Xiaolong

    Set against the backdrop of post-Cultural Revolution Shanghai, this gripping mystery follows Inspector Chen Cao as he delves into the murder of a reclusive writer, whose controversial past and politically charged novels have left a trail of enemies. As Chen navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing society, he uncovers layers of intrigue and deception, revealing the intricate connections between the personal and the political. The investigation challenges Chen's own beliefs and loyalties, offering a poignant exploration of China's turbulent history and the enduring impact of its ideological struggles.

    The 9676th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. The Mao Case

    Cover of 'The Mao Case' by Qiu Xiaolong

    A thoughtful Shanghai detective is drawn into a politically sensitive murder investigation that forces him to navigate official pressure, bureaucratic cover-ups and the lingering scars of history. As he follows clues that reach from the corridors of power to the city's underbelly, he uncovers corruption, personal compromises and conflicting loyalties, all while reflecting on poetry, morality and the human costs of a society in transition.

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