This dishy, dramatic novel is perfect for your vacation reading.

I picked up Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan (2013; 403 pages) because it’s being made into a movie this summer starring Constance Wu (whom I love from the TV show Fresh Off the Boat). I expected a fun, dishy read and I was not disappointed! The only thing that could have improved this book is if I’d been able to read it on the beach or by the pool (difficult, since it’s January and I’m in Indiana…).

When Nick Young asks his Chinese-American girlfriend Rachel Chu to attend his best friend’s wedding with him and spend the summer at his childhood home in Singapore, she has no idea what she’s getting herself into. Nick’s family is one of the wealthiest families in Asia and Nick, the favorite grandchild, is heir to their enormous fortune. Rachel’s never even dreamed of this degree of wealth and she’s not prepared for the level of scrutiny she will be subjected to. Nick’s one of the most eligible bachelors in Singapore and his family is not going to accept Rachel without a fight.

Reading about the incredible opulence of these families is half the fun – ladies spending millions in one couture shopping trip, friends boarding private jets to fly to private islands for parties. I’m so excited for this book to be turned into a movie because it’s sure to be a feast for the eyes. Reading about the drama, backbiting, and sacrifices for the good of the family name feels like reading a contemporary, Asian Downton Abbey.

Readalikes:

Read this book if you like:

  • Any of the Real Housewives shows
  • Kentucky Rich (2001; 327 pages) by Fern Michaels
  • The Nanny Diaries (2002; 305 pages) by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus