Half a Lifelong Romance (Vintage International)

This book is going to stay with me for a long time. Set in Shanghai in the 1930’s-1940’s, it tells the story of missed chances in the romance between Manzhen and Shijun who meet while working in the same office. Family, especially mothers and sisters, conspire with the best of intentions in both lives with devastating consequences. The book emphasizes the manner in which one event can be construed differently by those involved. Beautifully written, I suspect it is even better in the original language. Highly recommend.

This was not all what I expected it to be. It is still a love story, but it’s a love story through real life, not one where the gets the girl and things turn out the way they’re supposed to be. And I like that actually. It feels like real life in a way other love stories haven’t, at least haven’t to me.

Paper and book finish are not good, but story itself should be excellent.

I wanted to clarify the story of the movie version. It was a disappointment to find out that the original story was different form the movie version.

was eneviwas inevitable,.was inevitable, a little more closure would have been appreciated. I would recommend it to a friend.

Thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. Order more books from the same author as a result.

Nice book, very descriptive. It provides an intimate look at the strict codes of conduct in other cultures and the complications they cause.

Frankly, I was disappointed. The plot and characters weren't compelling. All lack depth. Consequently the book reads like a piece of juvenile fiction.

One of the best most devastating books I’ve read in years

it is like as watching a film. full details. strong plot and beautifully written.