Eastern Shadows
By Peter Nordgren
Publication Date: 15th December 2025
Publisher: Northern Annex Publications
Page Length: 333
Genre: Crime Action Thriller
A young woman vanishes while exploring her roots in Thailand.
She left on her own. She posts on social media. “I’m safe,” she claims.
But her mother doesn't buy it. Neither do her friends.
What really happened to her? And where is she now?
Enter Shane Morris, a struggling journalist who once called Thailand home. He speaks the language. He knows the culture. But he’s still just an outsider, sent to unravel an intricate web of rumors and lies.
Navigating a land of corrupt officials, seedy motels, and ancient temples, Shane is pulled into the heart of Thailand’s shadowy underbelly. With each step toward the truth, he draws the attention of Kittisak Wanchai, a real-estate tycoon with criminal ties and a secret: he’s the missing woman’s father.
From the neon-soaked streets of Bangkok to the sacred shrines of the north, Shane is forced to confront the darkest parts of himself, and his past, to put the pieces together.
Surrounded on all sides by corruption and deceit, Shane’s world will be stripped bare and he’ll be left with a devastating choice: loyalty to the living, or devotion to the dead.
Eastern Shadows is a gritty, haunting reflection on the duality of human nature, and the lengths one is willing to go to hide their darkest secrets, all while peeling back the layers lurking beneath the Land of Smiles.
“Eastern Shadows,” Peter Nordgren’s debut novel, weaves an intricate tale that captivates from the outset. The story's vivid imagery and rich characters immerse readers in a world of mystery and crime. Nordgren’s prose explores complex themes, drawing readers into the darkness of his characters’ pasts and the challenges of their present. This narrative is more than a story; it’s a profound exploration of human resilience and the quest for identity.
The story centres on Shane, an investigative reporter, who embarks on a compelling journey to unravel the puzzle surrounding the disappearance of a woman named Ploy who was volunteering in Thailand. Driven by a relentless pursuit of the truth, Shane navigates a complex web of personal connections and hidden stories. His investigative work leads him to interview Ploy’s close friends, each providing fragmented pieces of her life that hint at her struggles and aspirations. He traverses crucial locations, from the vibrant streets of Bangkok, where night markets buzz with life, and bars sell more than liquor, to the quiet of the countryside. With every conversation and visit, Shane inches closer to uncovering Ploy’s fate.
Shane is a complex and determined protagonist, propelled by an overwhelming need to locate Ploy, regardless of the personal costs involved. His quest, however, often borders on recklessness—he plunges into dangerous situations that others would avoid, stepping into the shadows of the city where even the bravest hesitate. As he explores the mystery surrounding Ploy’s disappearance, this investigation transforms into a relentless mission. Shane is resolute; he will not return home until he has uncovered her fate, whether it be a joyful reunion or a tragic discovery. With each passing day, the stakes grow higher as bodies start to accumulate around him, each one a grim reminder of the dangers lurking in his pursuit. Meanwhile, the threats against his life escalate, yet Shane remains undeterred. He presses on through chaos and fear, a reckless adventurer determined to bring back the truth about Ploy, come what may. Through his thoughts and dialogue, the reader can appreciate the nuances of his motivations, revealing not just what he does but why he feels compelled to behave in certain ways, ultimately enhancing the reader’s understanding of his journey. As far as action heroes go, Shane may not be among the most legendary, but he certainly holds his own!
The novel boasts a cast of well-crafted characters, each with their own complex backgrounds and motivations. Among them are several formidable villains, whose nefarious schemes and chilling intentions create an atmosphere thick with tension. These antagonists are not merely one-dimensional; they are intricate figures whose cunning plans and dark desires keep the protagonist—and the readers—constantly on their toes. The mysterious man Shane names "One-Hair" gives the story a sense of foreboding, as does Benz, who is a powerful gangster and one who you would not want to cross. But it is Kittisak Wanchai, a successful businessman, that really snags Shane’s interest, for Kittisak is Ploy’s father—although he might not know it yet. All the antagonists bring a chilling fear to the narrative, each exuding a certain menace. In the cases of One-Hair and Benz, they are not afraid to get their hands dirty, further intensifying the tension.
The rampant corruption that festers within the police force, combined with their alarming ineptitude, poses a substantial barrier for Shane as he desperately seeks to locate Ploy. Despite Shane’s heartfelt pleas and his deep-seated concerns laid bare to Chongrak, the imposing and rigid police chief, instead of helping, she coldly discourages Shane from following any promising leads regarding Ploy’s disappearance, only serving to ignite his resolve to uncover the truth on his own. Shane’s sense of frustration with the police is palpable. He navigates through a system that seems more interested in serving itself than serving the community. With each interaction, the indifference and incompetence of the authorities underscore the harsh reality: Shane knows he cannot depend on the police to aid in the search for Ploy.
Nordgren has masterfully crafted the vibrancy of Thailand, captivating readers into its breathtaking landscapes while simultaneously unveiling the darker, more sinister aspects lurking beneath the surface. The stark contrast between the opulent houses and business buildings of the wealthy elite and the dilapidated homes of the impoverished is vividly illustrated, highlighting the socioeconomic divides that shape the lives of the inhabitants. The bustling train station, characterised by its weathered benches and the chaotic throngs of people, stands in sharp relief against the peaceful landscape of the Thai countryside, creating a compelling backdrop for the narrative’s unfolding drama. In this setting, the local school emerges as a beacon of youthful energy and ambition, a dynamic hub of learning and aspiration. It provides a grounding point for the characters amidst the surrounding chaos, symbolising hope and potential in an otherwise tumultuous environment. Each location is meticulously detailed, with vibrant descriptions that add layers of depth and authenticity to the story. This striking juxtaposition between the sprawling urban landscape and the serene rural settings not only enhances the storytelling but also brings to life the intricate complexities of the land—and its diverse people—drawing readers deeper into the heart of Thailand.
There is no doubt that Nordgren is a masterful storyteller. He expertly weaves intricate plot twists that leave readers on the edge of their seats. With each chapter, he skilfully introduces unexpected turns and suspenseful moments, keeping the reader guessing about the outcome right up until the final pages. His ability to craft suspenseful narratives makes it difficult to depict the direction of the story, making for an exhilarating reading experience filled with surprises at every turn.
If you’re a fan of adrenaline-fueled crime thrillers that grip you from the very first page and keep you reading through the night, then “Eastern Shadows” by Peter Nordgren is an essential addition to your reading list. Nordgren’s remarkable talent for developing psychologically nuanced and thrilling characters ensures that his work stands out. This book comes highly recommended.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
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Eastern Shadows
Publication Date: 15th December 2025
Peter Nordgren
