China Blues Summary of Ki Longfellow's Book

Exploring the Roaring Twenties in San Francisco with "China Blues" by Ki Longfellow

In the heart of Chinatown, San Francisco, amidst the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties, lies a world of back-street blues and bathtub gin, where hardball mobsters clash with hardheaded cops, and seductive speakeasies hide sizzling scandals. This is the backdrop for Ki Longfellow's enthralling novel, "China Blues." Published in 1989, this historical fiction masterpiece takes readers on a gripping journey through a time of upheaval and transformation, where love, betrayal, and ambition collide in a city on the brink of chaos.

Characters

The characters in "China Blues" are vivid and multi-dimensional, each adding their own unique flavor to the tapestry of the narrative. At the center of the story is Elizabeth Stafford Hamilton, a young and impetuous socialite from Nob Hill. Lizzie finds herself drawn into a dangerous affair with the mysterious Li Kwan Won, who unbeknownst to her, is the overlord of San Francisco's vast bootlegging empire. Lizzie's husband, the powerful district attorney of the city, becomes embroiled in a fierce rivalry with Li, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown.

Other key characters include Louis Armstrong, the legendary jazz musician who plays at the infamous Blue Canary speakeasy, adding a touch of soulful music to the tumultuous events unfolding in the city. From mobsters to cops, from speakeasy owners to high-society elites, each character in "China Blues" plays a crucial role in shaping the destiny of San Francisco during this turbulent era.

Detailed Summary

As the story unfolds, Lizzie's affair with Li Kwan Won leads her into a world of danger and intrigue, where loyalties are tested and secrets are revealed. Caught between her passionate love for Li and her duty-bound marriage to her husband, Lizzie must navigate a treacherous path strewn with betrayal and deception. As the power struggle between Li and the district attorney intensifies, Lizzie finds herself at the center of a dangerous game where the stakes are life and death.

Against the backdrop of a city in turmoil, with Prohibition in full swing and the underground economy flourishing, "China Blues" paints a vivid portrait of a society on the edge. The clash between old money and new power, between tradition and modernity, drives the narrative forward with a sense of urgency and tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Analysis

Ki Longfellow skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and historical fiction in "China Blues," creating a rich tapestry of characters and events that captivate the reader from start to finish. The author's meticulous attention to detail brings the sights, sounds, and smells of 1920s San Francisco to life, immersing the reader in a world of glamour and grit, passion and peril.

Through Lizzie's journey of self-discovery and defiance, "China Blues" explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the high cost of ambition. The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of choices made in the heat of passion. As the city pulses with the rhythm of jazz and the clink of glasses, the characters in "China Blues" navigate a world where morality is malleable, and loyalties are constantly tested.

Overall, "China Blues" is a masterful work of historical fiction that transports readers to a bygone era filled with intrigue and excitement. Ki Longfellow's lyrical prose and vivid storytelling create a mesmerizing experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.

Final thoughts

If you enjoy mysteries, historical fiction, or stories of love and betrayal set against a backdrop of glamour and danger, "China Blues" by Ki Longfellow is a must-read. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of 1920s San Francisco, and discover a world filled with unforgettable characters and gripping drama. Order your copy today and embark on a journey you won't soon forget.

Disclaimer: For the best reading experience, we recommend purchasing the complete book "China Blues" by Ki Longfellow or listening to the audiobook version.

9780975925577 (ISBN10: 0975925571)