A sensational novel by a Booker Prize nominee about a bright yet brutal world of the metropolis. Five heroes arrive in Shanghai from Malaysia: one has a wealthy inheritance, while another, on the contrary, escaped deep poverty with not a penny to their name. These completely different people are united by just one goal: to realize their cherished dream and conquer this “Eastern Paris.” Phoebe is a hardworking provincial girl who came to Shanghai looking for at least some work—but in her heart she dreams of catching a crane in the sky. Gary is a village guy who became a pop star, but he still isn’t used to the dizzying life in the glare of the spotlights. Justin is the heir of a wealthy Malaysian family who arrives in Shanghai to expand the family business—only to face insurmountable difficulties. Inhoy is a romantic young woman who became a successful business lady in this male world of corporate sharks. And Walter Chao—the mysterious five-star billionaire—somehow connected to the fate of each of the heroes and acting according to his own plan, known only to him. The metropolis promises soaring heights to those ready to stake everything, but in the battle for a place in the sun there are no rules and no judges—only ruthless reality. What price are you willing to pay for success? How to find even one true smile among a sea of fake ones? And how to cope with crushing loneliness—the main illness of a city dweller?