Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan - review

When Rachel Chu agrees to spend her summer vacation in Singapore with her boyfriend Nicholas Young, she envisions a quiet vacation spent with his humble family and the man she loves. Instead, what she realizes is that Nicholas is not only the heir to one of Asia’s most massive fortunes, but he is also one of the most sought after bachelors, making Rachel a target for every scheming and young woman she meets who has her eye on Nicholas.

 Soon, Rachel is thrust into the world of ridiculously rich and opulent where she has to learn how to fend for herself if her relationship has any chance of surviving.

 Kevin Kwan’s debut novel is both delightful and funny, with his quick wit and sharp sense of humor, offering a Cinderella-style story set in the modern world full of underhanded schemes, glittering chandeliers, and Prada bags.

With plenty of secondary characters who are just as compelling and interesting such as Astrid, Society’s IT girl, Eddie who lives in the pages of Hong Kong’s socialite magazine, and Eleanor, Nick’s mother, a strong woman who is set in her ways and opinions.

 It’s easy to root for American born Rachel who struggles to connect with her Chinese heritage while she tries to understand the world her boyfriend comes from. As for Nicholas, he’s relatable as the golden boy who has everything and wants nothing more than a simple life away from the glitz and glamor.

The story offers plenty of laughs as well as heartfelt moments all set against the backdrop of the luxurious and opulent.

 With plenty of insights, and enough family drama to make it feel like a reality show, Crazy rich Asians explore the parallels between old money vs new and the bonds of family vs love.