Status
Available
Call number
Series
Publication
Anchor (2018), Edition: Reprint, 560 pages
Description
When Nicholas Young hears that his grandmother, Su Yi, is on her deathbed, he rushes to be by her bedside--but he's not alone. The entire Shang-Young clan has convened from all corners of the globe to stake claim on their matriarch's massive fortune. With each family member vying to inherit Tyersall Park--a trophy estate on 64 prime acres in the heart of Singapore--Nicholas's childhood home turns into a hotbed of speculation and sabotage. As her relatives fight over heirlooms, Astrid Leong is at the center of her own storm, desperately in love with her old sweetheart Charlie Wu, but tormented by her ex-husband--a man hell bent on destroying Astrid's reputation and relationship. Meanwhile Kitty Pong, married to China's second richest man, billionaire Jack Bing, still feels second best next to her new step-daughter, famous fashionista Colette Bing. A sweeping novel that takes us from the elegantly appointed mansions of Manila to the secluded private islands in the Sulu Sea, from a kidnapping at Hong Kong's most elite private school to a surprise marriage proposal at an Indian palace, caught on camera by the telephoto lenses of paparazzi, Kevin Kwan's hilarious, gloriously wicked new novel reveals the long-buried secrets of Asia's most privileged families and their rich people problems.… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member teachlz
I would like to thank NetGalley, Doubleday Books, Doubleday, and Kevin Kwan for the ARC of "Rich People Problems" by Kevin Kwan for my honest review.
The Genre of this book is Women's Fiction. Please note that this is the third book in a series of books by the author. I have not read the other two
Kevin Kwan describes many of the locations in Asia, as well places in the rest of the world in a delightful, easy to visualize paradise. He describes the beautiful shades of water and landscape in such an alluring way. I appreciate the way the author describes Tyersall Park on 64 acres in Singapore, and the interior designs, as well as the architectural designs in other places.
The characters are described as complex, complicated, competitive, greedy, vain, manipulative, jealous,secretive and rich. There a few characters that have integrity and flaws. The author describes all the materialistic fashions, jewelry, cars and design houses with a "NAME" that costs a fortune. Many of the characters are portrayed as shallow, and visit plastic surgeons, and live to get more and better than the others. There is jealousy and revenge.
Kevin Kwan writes about Asia's most prestigious and wealthy families. Many have fortune and wealth and fancy titles.
Su-Yi, the powerful and wealthy Matriarch is on her deathbed, as close and distant relatives congregate waiting to see who will inherit Tyersall Park. At the same time, the author describes the toxic relationships of various relatives and characters. Traditions, religion and expectations are discussed.
This was an intriguing read, and I would recommend this to those of you that have read the other two books in the series. I would rate this book as 3.5 stars. Happy Reading!
The Genre of this book is Women's Fiction. Please note that this is the third book in a series of books by the author. I have not read the other two
Show More
books.Kevin Kwan describes many of the locations in Asia, as well places in the rest of the world in a delightful, easy to visualize paradise. He describes the beautiful shades of water and landscape in such an alluring way. I appreciate the way the author describes Tyersall Park on 64 acres in Singapore, and the interior designs, as well as the architectural designs in other places.
The characters are described as complex, complicated, competitive, greedy, vain, manipulative, jealous,secretive and rich. There a few characters that have integrity and flaws. The author describes all the materialistic fashions, jewelry, cars and design houses with a "NAME" that costs a fortune. Many of the characters are portrayed as shallow, and visit plastic surgeons, and live to get more and better than the others. There is jealousy and revenge.
Kevin Kwan writes about Asia's most prestigious and wealthy families. Many have fortune and wealth and fancy titles.
Su-Yi, the powerful and wealthy Matriarch is on her deathbed, as close and distant relatives congregate waiting to see who will inherit Tyersall Park. At the same time, the author describes the toxic relationships of various relatives and characters. Traditions, religion and expectations are discussed.
This was an intriguing read, and I would recommend this to those of you that have read the other two books in the series. I would rate this book as 3.5 stars. Happy Reading!
Show Less
LibraryThing member eurohackie
It was hard to rate this book, because there were parts I loved (Nick's reunion with Su Yi, the end of Astrid's storyline) and parts I didn't (85% of Astrid's storyline in this book; and I could've especially done without the extended storyline of Kitty Pong being insecure and jealous of her
This book wasn't quite as good as Book #2, which wasn't quite as good as Book #1, but that's how series generally go, no? All of the books had their strong points, and Kwan is a fantastic writer - at turns hilarious and poignant. The books are impulsively readable - once you start, it's hard to stop.
The entire series is worth reading, and the upcoming movie version will definitely be interesting.
Show More
stepdaughter). The epilogue was completely unnecessary and brought my score down from 4 stars.This book wasn't quite as good as Book #2, which wasn't quite as good as Book #1, but that's how series generally go, no? All of the books had their strong points, and Kwan is a fantastic writer - at turns hilarious and poignant. The books are impulsively readable - once you start, it's hard to stop.
The entire series is worth reading, and the upcoming movie version will definitely be interesting.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Cats57
What can I say about this book...well first thing it would help a lot if you make sure you read the first two books in this series (?). It might help you keep the myriad of characters straight. You might also want to be happy with foot-notes, a LOT of them. And let me tell you it is no picnic
You need to be happy with constant advertising of items that the hoi polloi (like me!)wont know about, but with a book such as this it is the norm or how else would we know that these people are filthy rich if it wasn't for all the advertising???
There are a about a skagillion character's (it seems) and it is sometimes very difficult to keep them all straight, but the main character's of Nick and his sister Atstrid will grab you and they are fairly well written- not too fleshed out but enough so you can empathize with them.
In the long run this was a bit more boring than I would have thought a book of this type would be. It is also somewhat long winded, but again for a book of this type it is understandable.
I did love learning about Ah Ma and her past. She should have a book all to herself -it wouldn't be a funny one, but it sure would capture me!
I think that this author has so much more inside and could branch out from these ironic books, to something just as entertaining but with a little bit more to say.
ARC from Author and/or Publishe
Show More
reading a book with foot-notes on a Kindle.You need to be happy with constant advertising of items that the hoi polloi (like me!)wont know about, but with a book such as this it is the norm or how else would we know that these people are filthy rich if it wasn't for all the advertising???
There are a about a skagillion character's (it seems) and it is sometimes very difficult to keep them all straight, but the main character's of Nick and his sister Atstrid will grab you and they are fairly well written- not too fleshed out but enough so you can empathize with them.
In the long run this was a bit more boring than I would have thought a book of this type would be. It is also somewhat long winded, but again for a book of this type it is understandable.
I did love learning about Ah Ma and her past. She should have a book all to herself -it wouldn't be a funny one, but it sure would capture me!
I think that this author has so much more inside and could branch out from these ironic books, to something just as entertaining but with a little bit more to say.
ARC from Author and/or Publishe
Show Less
LibraryThing member cburnett5
Rich People Problems is a fabulous read. Kevin Kwan’s witty writing and highly entertaining characters make Rich People Problems so much fun to read. There are A LOT of characters to keep up with, but once I had them all straight again I didn’t want the book to end. Kwan is a master at
I really enjoyed learning more about Su Yi’s background and Tyersall Park itself. Kwan’s descriptions of the ultra-rich lifestyles of certain characters and the outlandish behavior of others, including poor Eddie and Kitty. A fish gets plastic surgery, a socialite has a “personal documentarian”, and a decorator creates a look he called “Ming emperor meets Louis-Napoleon at Studio 54” which includes Tibetan yak hair dyed simmering shades of persimmon. Kwan is truly a master at depicting the absurdity of various characters’ lifestyles in the most hilarious manner. Be prepared to laugh out loud repeatedly.
I was excited to see artist James Turrell receive a shout-out from Kwan. Turrell designed an illuminated tunnel at the art museum near my home, and it remains one of our favorite things to see whenever we visit the museum.
I highly recommend this book and hope there will be another one. I am looking forward to the Crazy Rich Asians movie in the meantime. Thanks to Doubleday and NetGalley for the chance to read this book.
Show More
depicting familial relationships, and with everyone descending on Tyersall Park, there is much family drama to be had. I really enjoyed learning more about Su Yi’s background and Tyersall Park itself. Kwan’s descriptions of the ultra-rich lifestyles of certain characters and the outlandish behavior of others, including poor Eddie and Kitty. A fish gets plastic surgery, a socialite has a “personal documentarian”, and a decorator creates a look he called “Ming emperor meets Louis-Napoleon at Studio 54” which includes Tibetan yak hair dyed simmering shades of persimmon. Kwan is truly a master at depicting the absurdity of various characters’ lifestyles in the most hilarious manner. Be prepared to laugh out loud repeatedly.
I was excited to see artist James Turrell receive a shout-out from Kwan. Turrell designed an illuminated tunnel at the art museum near my home, and it remains one of our favorite things to see whenever we visit the museum.
I highly recommend this book and hope there will be another one. I am looking forward to the Crazy Rich Asians movie in the meantime. Thanks to Doubleday and NetGalley for the chance to read this book.
Show Less
LibraryThing member mcelhra
Rich People Problems is the final book in Kevin Kwan’s Crazy Rich Asians trilogy. This review will contain spoilers for the first two books, Crazy Rich Asians and China Rich Girlfriend. I highly recommend reading the first two books before reading Rich People Problems. I don’t think it will
Rich People Problems takes place about two years after China Rich Girlfriend left off. Nick’s grandmother is sick and probably close to dying. Nick was the heir apparent to Tyersall Park but he has been estranged from his grandmother since he married Rachel against her wishes. If Su Yi dies who will inherit Tyersall Park now? Nick’s conniving cousin Eddie thinks it should be him. He hasn’t changed a bit over the past two years – he’s still a pretentious snob. Some of what he does and how he acts is funny but sometimes I just wanted to punch him in the face.
Meanwhile, Nick’s mother is after Nick and Rachel to give her a grandchild. If you thought the lengths she went to try and keep them from getting married were over the top, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet!
We also check in with the Michael/Astrid/Charlie situation. Since getting rich, Michael has continued to become more and more of an asshole. He and Astrid are in the middle of an acrimonious divorce. We learn more about Charlie’s wife Isabelle, who has major problems of her own.
And then there’s Kitty, who has either forgotten or rejected everything her consultant Corrina taught her about fitting in with the old money Asians. Now that she’s married to Jack Bing, one of the richest men in Asia, she can and will behave however she wants.
The life-styles of most everyone in this book are even more outrageously lavish than in the two previous books. But Kwan, who grew up in Singapore has said that the way his characters live is totally based in reality. Regardless, it’s fun living vicariously through these people. I was mostly satisfied with the way Kwan wrapped up this series. My only problems were that Astrid’s ending seemed a little of character for her and Peik Lin’s ending felt rushed.
The book starts off a bit slow but soon returns to the level of humor that China Rich Girlfriend had. (I don’t think Kwan will be able to top Crazy Rich Asians.), including his droll and informative foot-notes. If you’re looking for a light, funny summer read, this is it.
Show More
make much sense if you aren’t already familiar with the characters.Rich People Problems takes place about two years after China Rich Girlfriend left off. Nick’s grandmother is sick and probably close to dying. Nick was the heir apparent to Tyersall Park but he has been estranged from his grandmother since he married Rachel against her wishes. If Su Yi dies who will inherit Tyersall Park now? Nick’s conniving cousin Eddie thinks it should be him. He hasn’t changed a bit over the past two years – he’s still a pretentious snob. Some of what he does and how he acts is funny but sometimes I just wanted to punch him in the face.
Meanwhile, Nick’s mother is after Nick and Rachel to give her a grandchild. If you thought the lengths she went to try and keep them from getting married were over the top, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet!
We also check in with the Michael/Astrid/Charlie situation. Since getting rich, Michael has continued to become more and more of an asshole. He and Astrid are in the middle of an acrimonious divorce. We learn more about Charlie’s wife Isabelle, who has major problems of her own.
And then there’s Kitty, who has either forgotten or rejected everything her consultant Corrina taught her about fitting in with the old money Asians. Now that she’s married to Jack Bing, one of the richest men in Asia, she can and will behave however she wants.
The life-styles of most everyone in this book are even more outrageously lavish than in the two previous books. But Kwan, who grew up in Singapore has said that the way his characters live is totally based in reality. Regardless, it’s fun living vicariously through these people. I was mostly satisfied with the way Kwan wrapped up this series. My only problems were that Astrid’s ending seemed a little of character for her and Peik Lin’s ending felt rushed.
The book starts off a bit slow but soon returns to the level of humor that China Rich Girlfriend had. (I don’t think Kwan will be able to top Crazy Rich Asians.), including his droll and informative foot-notes. If you’re looking for a light, funny summer read, this is it.
Show Less
LibraryThing member shazjhb
Excellent conclusion to a great book. However, it needs to go back and give the grandmother's story
LibraryThing member quondame
A few new wishful tourist destinations, but a bit too much time spent with people who have nothing to do but spend money - and even those who do aren't spending anytime doing it.
LibraryThing member foggidawn
Nick Young hasn’t spoken to his grandmother in nearly five years, and now she is dying. At his wife Rachel’s urging, Nick travels back to Singapore to make peace with his Ah Ma. There, he discovers a tangle of relatives, all planning and scheming and wondering: who will inherit Tyersall Park,
Though it has its moments of hilarity, this book is a little deeper than the two before it, dealing as it does with themes of death and legacy. I found it a satisfying conclusion to the story arc for these characters.
Show More
his grandmother’s sprawling estate?Though it has its moments of hilarity, this book is a little deeper than the two before it, dealing as it does with themes of death and legacy. I found it a satisfying conclusion to the story arc for these characters.
Show Less
LibraryThing member jovemako
took a while for this soap opera to come to an end. This last volume of the Crazy Rich Asians trilogy was a mix of Dynasty and listening to the celebrity gossip columns (like E!) on the surface. Kitty was nuttier than ever, Nick's mom (Elenor) while not a huge player this time around was still
Show More
being, well, her. In the end it all tied up all the loose ends in a neat bow. Overall, not a bad read. Sometimes I just kind of slugged through pages because there was way too much description about the decor or shopping habits. This goes in the "poolside read" category. Show Less
LibraryThing member SBoren
I purchased this book from Amazon to read with @k.e.radke. All opinions are my own. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Rich People Problems by Kevin Kwan. After spending the last few weeks getting to know Astrid, Charlie, Michael, Rachel, Alistair, and their families and friends I am happy to say I have completed
Show More
the trilogy. A perfect ending to a perfect trilogy. That is all. Review also posted on Instagram @borenbooks, Library Thing, Go Read, Goodreads/StacieBoren, Twitter @jason_stacie and my blog at readsbystacie.com Show Less
LibraryThing member MickyFine
When Nicholas Young's grandmother, Su Yi, takes ill, the entire clan descends on Tyersall Park. However, concern for their matriarch is at the bottom of most of her relatives' priority lists. Instead all of them are fixated on getting into her good graces in the hopes of inspiring a last minute
Kwan crafts yet another sprawling tale with the characters readers of this trilogy have come to know (and love or hate). While the central plot is well done and Kwan writes evocatively of the details of the lives of the insanely rich, I felt like character development was lacking a bit in this one. I also was dismayed that Rachel, who has always been the sort of sane, everyday access point to this world gets so very little page time. While she and Nick aren't the dramatic centre of these novels, they are its most sane heart (followed by Astrid). Highly enjoyable and definitely recommended for fans of the previous books but I felt it didn't quite match the standards of its predecessors.
Show More
will change and inheriting the estate of Tyersall Park.Kwan crafts yet another sprawling tale with the characters readers of this trilogy have come to know (and love or hate). While the central plot is well done and Kwan writes evocatively of the details of the lives of the insanely rich, I felt like character development was lacking a bit in this one. I also was dismayed that Rachel, who has always been the sort of sane, everyday access point to this world gets so very little page time. While she and Nick aren't the dramatic centre of these novels, they are its most sane heart (followed by Astrid). Highly enjoyable and definitely recommended for fans of the previous books but I felt it didn't quite match the standards of its predecessors.
Show Less
LibraryThing member norabelle414
Shang Su Yi, also known as Ah Ma, the matriarch of the Young family, is on her deathbed. Out of the woodwork come all of her relatives – royal grandchildren from Thailand, British cousins from Surrey, and of course the greedy Eddie Cheng. The grand Singaporean mansion Tyersall Park is chock full
Once again, we return to the epic struggle between those who have a reputation but (relatively) little money and those who have no reputation and oodles of cash. Nothing like some inheritance drama to stir the pot! I really loved all of the parts of the plot that were about the family drama and the inheritance. Although in the last book I really liked Kitty Pong, in this book she was unnecessarily cruel (though her nemesis is worse) and I didn’t like her sections much. A few flashbacks and lots of other peeks into Ah Ma’s life during World War II give extra depth to a story that might otherwise be stale. I don’t know if there are going to be more in this series, but I’m not ready for it to be over!
Show More
of people hoping for a piece of Ah Ma’s gigantic inheritance. Even Nicholas Young, formerly Ah Ma’s golden child but currently in self-imposed exile in NYC, returns to Singapore to say his goodbyes. Eddie, determined to keep Nick out of their grandmother’s good graces, is constantly scheming. Will Ah Ma survive her illness? Who will inherit Tyersall Park (and how will they afford the upkeep)? Can Ah Ma and Nicholas make up?Once again, we return to the epic struggle between those who have a reputation but (relatively) little money and those who have no reputation and oodles of cash. Nothing like some inheritance drama to stir the pot! I really loved all of the parts of the plot that were about the family drama and the inheritance. Although in the last book I really liked Kitty Pong, in this book she was unnecessarily cruel (though her nemesis is worse) and I didn’t like her sections much. A few flashbacks and lots of other peeks into Ah Ma’s life during World War II give extra depth to a story that might otherwise be stale. I don’t know if there are going to be more in this series, but I’m not ready for it to be over!
Show Less
LibraryThing member haymaai
After previously enjoying Kevin Kwan’s ‘Crazy Rich Asians,’ I was excited to read ‘Rich People’s Problems’ when it emerged on the to-read list at our local library. Not realizing that this novel was the final story in a trilogy, I may have missed some schema when I neglected to read the
Show More
second novel, ‘China Rich Girlfriend.’ For me, much of this tale seemed immersed in over-the-top branding of the most exclusive wares, from watches to exclusive designer clothing and more, and I felt that it detracted from the character development and plot. The story is basically about a the female matriarch, SuYi Young, who is on her death-bed with all the family congregating to say their goodbyes and pay their respects, with some family members hoping to become beneficiaries to SuYi’s will and to acquire the majestic family estate Tyersall Park in Singapore. The author attempts to portray a satirical picture of an ultra-wealthy Asian family and all the trappings of their lifestyle. There is Eddie Chang, who weeps profusely and protectively over SuYi, while attempting to get into her good graces hoping to inherit Tyerall Park. Meanwhile, Nick, Su-Yi’s favored grandson, tries to return to Tyersall Park for a last visit with his beloved grandmother, to make amends with her before her imminent death. Nick is blocked by the security guards from seeing her, and only through complicit plotting, is given an audience with his grandmother. SuYi’s other granddaughter, Astrid, who is in the midst of a divorce settlement, flies to India to meet with her lover, Charlie Wu. While they are having sex, Charlie’s soon-to-be ex-wife captures the couple on tape, and the video is released, going viral. The story is hilarious at times, but for me, in order to portray the extraordinary wealth of these people, the author seemed to name-drop so frequently that it detracted from the overall satire. However, being a coffee aficionado, I was pleased to read of Verve Coffee Roasters, a pricey LA coffee chain named in the book, so that I might possibly find that elusive cup of perfect coffee. Show Less
LibraryThing member LittleBookishInkblot
Shang Su Yi is on her deathbed, and Tyersall Park is on lockdown.
Having read and enjoyed the first two books I could not WAIT to sink my teeth into the exploits of my favorite family. The first two books had such spot-on characters that I still remember fondly. By the third book, Nick, Rachel,
Diving into the book, you immediately get that feeling of being swept up in the story as we learn that Shang Su Yi is dying. The entire family flies in (on their private jets, of course) to say their goodbyes, make their peace and cement their claims on the family fortune. Nick, the beloved grandson who was once thought to inherit it all is banned from the house. Astrid, the favorite granddaughter who is facing the social media scandal of the century is also discouraged from visiting her grandmother. As the drama continues to unfold inside the walls of beautiful Tyersall Park, Kitty Pong (now Mrs. Jack Bing) lives in luxurious splendor but faces steep competition from her stepdaughter, Colette.
The characters continue to be just as over the top as in the previous books, with the story picking up a few years after the end of the last book, China Rich Girlfriend. In typical Kevin Kwan fashion, we are immersed in the colorful descriptions of lavish luxurious lifestyles and over the top opulence with brand names scattered all throughout the pages. There are noticeably more food references in this book as compared to the others, in fact the meals were described so deliciously it made me want to eat dinner thrice in one day! Expect a lot of great family drama, laugh out loud moments and even some eye-rolling ridiculousness - mostly centered around Eddie.
I'm not going to do anything ridiculous like mention who gets Tyersall Park in the end but I will say that this book gave me a lot to think about. My favorite parts of the book were about Su Yi's past and I was also pleasantly surprised to see glimpses of humanity in a few of the characters. The only downside is that I missed seeing Rachel in the book, she did not have as strong a presence now as she did in the past. Her character had so much to offer in the first two books and I feel that she is just Nick's main for of support in this one, which is a pity since there were some scenes with Kitty that I feel was not needed to move the story along. I am holding out for a fourth book because Rachel's character was just so -blah- that I feel she needs redemption, maybe as a young mother with overbearing in-laws? Who knows, perhaps Eleanor will visit New York and babysit! Won't that be fun?
Rich People Problems is by far one of the best reads I've had this year, it's outrageous, but also very unexpected. I am not ready to let these characters go, so I will be joining the horde of fans waiting with bated breaths for the movie, and a fourth book!
Having read and enjoyed the first two books I could not WAIT to sink my teeth into the exploits of my favorite family. The first two books had such spot-on characters that I still remember fondly. By the third book, Nick, Rachel,
Show More
Astrid, Charlie, Kitty, and Ollie had started to feel like old friends (and frenemies). By the third chapter, I am hoping for Astrid's happy ending and wondering if Nick and Rachel will ever reconcile with Nick's grandmother.Diving into the book, you immediately get that feeling of being swept up in the story as we learn that Shang Su Yi is dying. The entire family flies in (on their private jets, of course) to say their goodbyes, make their peace and cement their claims on the family fortune. Nick, the beloved grandson who was once thought to inherit it all is banned from the house. Astrid, the favorite granddaughter who is facing the social media scandal of the century is also discouraged from visiting her grandmother. As the drama continues to unfold inside the walls of beautiful Tyersall Park, Kitty Pong (now Mrs. Jack Bing) lives in luxurious splendor but faces steep competition from her stepdaughter, Colette.
The characters continue to be just as over the top as in the previous books, with the story picking up a few years after the end of the last book, China Rich Girlfriend. In typical Kevin Kwan fashion, we are immersed in the colorful descriptions of lavish luxurious lifestyles and over the top opulence with brand names scattered all throughout the pages. There are noticeably more food references in this book as compared to the others, in fact the meals were described so deliciously it made me want to eat dinner thrice in one day! Expect a lot of great family drama, laugh out loud moments and even some eye-rolling ridiculousness - mostly centered around Eddie.
I'm not going to do anything ridiculous like mention who gets Tyersall Park in the end but I will say that this book gave me a lot to think about. My favorite parts of the book were about Su Yi's past and I was also pleasantly surprised to see glimpses of humanity in a few of the characters. The only downside is that I missed seeing Rachel in the book, she did not have as strong a presence now as she did in the past. Her character had so much to offer in the first two books and I feel that she is just Nick's main for of support in this one, which is a pity since there were some scenes with Kitty that I feel was not needed to move the story along. I am holding out for a fourth book because Rachel's character was just so -blah- that I feel she needs redemption, maybe as a young mother with overbearing in-laws? Who knows, perhaps Eleanor will visit New York and babysit! Won't that be fun?
Rich People Problems is by far one of the best reads I've had this year, it's outrageous, but also very unexpected. I am not ready to let these characters go, so I will be joining the horde of fans waiting with bated breaths for the movie, and a fourth book!
Show Less
LibraryThing member ASKelmore
Best for: People who want some resolution of the dangling storylines from China Rich Girlfriend.
In a nutshell: The family matriarch is dying and is still estranged from one of her grandkids. Most potential heirs start acting even more entitled.
Worth quoting: N/A
Why I chose it: I read the first two
Review: (Spoilers below)
I didn’t fully enjoy how every storyline was tied up, but for the most part I found this to be and extremely satisfying end to the trilogy. The absurdity is ramped up a bit, and there’s a bit of a deus ex machina at the end, but whatever. The entire series is a messy soap opera and I loved it.
The character of Rachel continues to be a mostly non-entity, despite having been the instigator for the first book and our access point into this incomprehensible world. But that’s okay - there are other interesting women to follow, like Astrid, who has one of the more interesting arcs of the story. Some of the men are interesting and complicated as well.
There are also some REAL simple dudes. Oh Eddie. Eddie, you are the worst, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment when things didn’t go your way. I also found the evolution of Michael’s character to be intriguing - when he had (relatively) little money, he was a good father and partner who just wanted a way out of the life he knew didn’t fit him; as soon as he starts to get money he become overbearing and controlling and an ass.
My favorite part of the book came halfway through, when the matriarch’s will was read. Sometimes my eyes will dart over the full page and certain names will stand out, so I covered the pages with my hand so I couldn’t skim ahead. And it was worth it. So glorious.
I read these three books over the course of four days. I haven’t inhaled a series like this since … probably The Hunger Games. I enjoyed the frivolity and decadence, sure, but I also enjoyed the characters. I can’t wait to read what Mr. Kwan comes up with next.
In a nutshell: The family matriarch is dying and is still estranged from one of her grandkids. Most potential heirs start acting even more entitled.
Worth quoting: N/A
Why I chose it: I read the first two
Show More
books over the course of three days. I needed to know what happened next.Review: (Spoilers below)
I didn’t fully enjoy how every storyline was tied up, but for the most part I found this to be and extremely satisfying end to the trilogy. The absurdity is ramped up a bit, and there’s a bit of a deus ex machina at the end, but whatever. The entire series is a messy soap opera and I loved it.
The character of Rachel continues to be a mostly non-entity, despite having been the instigator for the first book and our access point into this incomprehensible world. But that’s okay - there are other interesting women to follow, like Astrid, who has one of the more interesting arcs of the story. Some of the men are interesting and complicated as well.
There are also some REAL simple dudes. Oh Eddie. Eddie, you are the worst, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment when things didn’t go your way. I also found the evolution of Michael’s character to be intriguing - when he had (relatively) little money, he was a good father and partner who just wanted a way out of the life he knew didn’t fit him; as soon as he starts to get money he become overbearing and controlling and an ass.
My favorite part of the book came halfway through, when the matriarch’s will was read. Sometimes my eyes will dart over the full page and certain names will stand out, so I covered the pages with my hand so I couldn’t skim ahead. And it was worth it. So glorious.
I read these three books over the course of four days. I haven’t inhaled a series like this since … probably The Hunger Games. I enjoyed the frivolity and decadence, sure, but I also enjoyed the characters. I can’t wait to read what Mr. Kwan comes up with next.
Show Less
LibraryThing member BraveNewBks
Kept me engaged on a long plane ride on a holiday weekend. Second best of the trilogy, maybe because much of the focus was back in Singapore instead of China and Hong Kong, which I think Kwan just doesn't know as intimately.
LibraryThing member briandrewz
This is the final installment in the Crazy Rich Asian series by Kevin Kwan. While not quite as good as the previous two books, this is, nonetheless, a very fun read. While the first two books focused more on Nick and Rachel, this book focuses more on the extended family of Nick, especially his
Show More
grandmother, Su Yi, who has more to the story than meets the eye. Another major theme in this book is porn-star-turned-socialite Kitty Pong and her ongoing feud with her stepdaughter, Colette. The ending is immensely satisfying and a perfect way to end the series. Show Less
LibraryThing member flourgirl49
This book chronicles the further fantastical adventures of the Crazy Rich Asians gang. Hugely entertaining. Loved it.
LibraryThing member bblum
Kwan's Rich People Problems is as fun as the first book. I have finished the trilogy and enjoyed both the fashion description and the back biting equally in all the books, and ah, the description of the food makes me want to go to Singapore. This book reveals more about the Young and Shang
Singapore but the reading of the will throws everything in the air. Plus the divorce of Charlie Wu and the difficulty Astrid is having divorcing her husband Michael gets ugly. Great fun read.
Show More
families. Nick makes up with his grandmother, finally, on her death bed. Does this mean he will inherit Tyarsall Park? Eddie is convinced he will inherit Tyarsall Park, the stately old mansion in the heart ofSingapore but the reading of the will throws everything in the air. Plus the divorce of Charlie Wu and the difficulty Astrid is having divorcing her husband Michael gets ugly. Great fun read.
Show Less
LibraryThing member arlenadean
Title: Rich People Problems
Author: Kevin Kwan
Publisher: Doubleday
Series: Crazy Rich Asians # 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Rich People Problems" by Kevin Kwan
My Thoughts...
This author gives the reader in this third book in the Crazy Rich Asians series a read of great drama, some
Author: Kevin Kwan
Publisher: Doubleday
Series: Crazy Rich Asians # 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Rich People Problems" by Kevin Kwan
My Thoughts...
This author gives the reader in this third book in the Crazy Rich Asians series a read of great drama, some
Show More
hilarious laughs with some characters, wonderful vacations spots, entertainment and scenic descriptions[clothing and jewelry] that will really have you thinking you are looking at a movie right in front of you. What wacky antics that this large family seems to have that will keep you turning the pages to its conclusion to a hilarious series. Be prepared to read of a 'dysfunctional, paranoid, social climbing crazies with some ridiculous fun.' This will be one intriguing, incredible and entertaining read that I would recommend to the readers. Show Less
LibraryThing member DeltaQueen50
Rich People Problems by Kevin Kwan is the third book in his satiric romantic comedy series about the ultra rich and powerful Asian families from Singapore. All of these books are full of designer fashion, gourmet food, expensive art and tongue-in-cheek fun. There is also family greed, speculation
Nicky Young and Astrid Leong have been her favorite grandchildren but in recent years Nicky and his grandmother fell out over his marriage, and Astrid is in trouble with her family because of her too public romance with Charlie Wu, even though they are both married to other people. Some members of the family, most notably Eddy Chang, are trying to keep the favorites away from their grandmother in the hope that he will benefit by their absence. Of course the author updates his readers on all of his characters, the many multi-billionaires of southeast Asia that have appeared in the other books.
These over-the-top books have been a fun escape from reality. The action has played out all over the globe as the ultra-rich go about their soap opera lives full of petty intrigues and lavish spending. If you are in the mood for some crazy family drama set in some of the world’s most expensive locations, these books should fill that craving nicely.
Show More
and social pressure as the extremely wealthy Su Yi, mother and grandmother to many of these influential people is dying, and this brings out members from every extended branch of the family, all seeking their share of her huge estate.Nicky Young and Astrid Leong have been her favorite grandchildren but in recent years Nicky and his grandmother fell out over his marriage, and Astrid is in trouble with her family because of her too public romance with Charlie Wu, even though they are both married to other people. Some members of the family, most notably Eddy Chang, are trying to keep the favorites away from their grandmother in the hope that he will benefit by their absence. Of course the author updates his readers on all of his characters, the many multi-billionaires of southeast Asia that have appeared in the other books.
These over-the-top books have been a fun escape from reality. The action has played out all over the globe as the ultra-rich go about their soap opera lives full of petty intrigues and lavish spending. If you are in the mood for some crazy family drama set in some of the world’s most expensive locations, these books should fill that craving nicely.
Show Less
LibraryThing member secondhandrose
Loved this final book in the trilogy. Some real LOL moments and great storylines.
LibraryThing member Briars_Reviews
Rich People Problems is the finale to the best-selling Crazy Rich Asians series.
This time around, the matriarch of the family, Su Yi, is dying and the entire family flock to come see her. You might be thinking, because they desperately love her? Oh no, because they would like a piece of that cash,
The first book in this series blew my socks off and the sequel felt kinda meh. The third book in this series didn't hit me well either, which left me feeling super disappointed.
The thing is, this book is SUPER well written. I absolutely love Kevin Kwan's writing! Not only does he have a unique, easy-to-read, yet super descriptive style but he also makes it super educational. I don't know a lot of the terminology and words from other languages, so I loved being able to take a peek inside of this world. This book is also packed tight full of wild drama and crazy rich people! What's not to love?
I think my biggest problem with this book is that there are so many characters to follow, and I really only wanted to follow the lives of Rachel, Astrid and Araminta. Everybody else didn't connect with me and I just felt very bored seeing into their lives. The funny thing is, their lives aren't boring! I just wanted way more of the characters I fell in love with during book one. In my mind, a lot of this book didn't need to be there to make it good. It felt like a lot of these characters were filler, but maybe that was just me.
The other little thing that irked me - the last book focused so heavily on Rachel and then she basically disappeared. It hurt a little, since she was one of my fave characters, but it's likely Kevin didn't have much else to do with her. I would have really liked to see her more... Honestly, this made me lose interest more than anything.
Despite the fact that I didn't enjoy this book, I still believe it was super charming. It's lovable, quirky and absolutely hilarious at times! It's well worth the read, in my humble opinion. I clearly had a very high standard that Kevin wasn't going to hit, especially after reading the first book (and watching the movie, because OMG. When are we getting these two books as movies?!). These wild, manipulative characters make this book full of crazy drama and gossip, so it's an absolutely, wildly fun ride!
Overall, this soap opera was a delight to read. It's a fun series for those who love gossip-y, crazy, soap opera drama!
Two out of five stars.
This time around, the matriarch of the family, Su Yi, is dying and the entire family flock to come see her. You might be thinking, because they desperately love her? Oh no, because they would like a piece of that cash,
Show More
and property, and jewelry and whatever else rich people hold. But that's not all! Oh no! Astrid and Charlie become a scandal when his wife loses it over their affair, Rachel and Nick seem to be enjoying blissful married life, Eddie wants respect, and Kitty still seems crazy.The first book in this series blew my socks off and the sequel felt kinda meh. The third book in this series didn't hit me well either, which left me feeling super disappointed.
The thing is, this book is SUPER well written. I absolutely love Kevin Kwan's writing! Not only does he have a unique, easy-to-read, yet super descriptive style but he also makes it super educational. I don't know a lot of the terminology and words from other languages, so I loved being able to take a peek inside of this world. This book is also packed tight full of wild drama and crazy rich people! What's not to love?
I think my biggest problem with this book is that there are so many characters to follow, and I really only wanted to follow the lives of Rachel, Astrid and Araminta. Everybody else didn't connect with me and I just felt very bored seeing into their lives. The funny thing is, their lives aren't boring! I just wanted way more of the characters I fell in love with during book one. In my mind, a lot of this book didn't need to be there to make it good. It felt like a lot of these characters were filler, but maybe that was just me.
The other little thing that irked me - the last book focused so heavily on Rachel and then she basically disappeared. It hurt a little, since she was one of my fave characters, but it's likely Kevin didn't have much else to do with her. I would have really liked to see her more... Honestly, this made me lose interest more than anything.
Despite the fact that I didn't enjoy this book, I still believe it was super charming. It's lovable, quirky and absolutely hilarious at times! It's well worth the read, in my humble opinion. I clearly had a very high standard that Kevin wasn't going to hit, especially after reading the first book (and watching the movie, because OMG. When are we getting these two books as movies?!). These wild, manipulative characters make this book full of crazy drama and gossip, so it's an absolutely, wildly fun ride!
Overall, this soap opera was a delight to read. It's a fun series for those who love gossip-y, crazy, soap opera drama!
Two out of five stars.
Show Less
LibraryThing member BookConcierge
Book three (and I hope the final installment) in the story of the uber wealthy Singaporean Young family. Nick hasn’t seen his grandmother in several years, since she disinherited him over his marriage to Rachel. But now Su Yi’s health crisis brings him … and his aunts and cousins … rushing
There’s plenty of drama, what with divorces, engagements, sex video scandals, stepchildren misbehaving, mega efforts to one-up each other, extravagant parties, and even plastic surgery for a pet fish. But the prize everyone wants is the fabulous estate – Tyersall Park. WHO will get it?
I didn’t find this effort very engaging. I really wanted more of Nick and Rachel’s story, but they were side characters to all the drama. I did like the flashbacks to Su Yi’s youth and her experiences during WW2. However, on the whole Kwan writes these people so over-the-top that it’s hard to relate to any of them. I’m not even all that interested in what brand names they are touting. They are shallower that the damp spot on the sidewalk where I splashed a few drops of water.
Oh well, it’s a relatively fast read and I found all the gossiping and back-biting mildly entertaining.
Show More
back to Singapore to get one more visit with the dying matriarch.There’s plenty of drama, what with divorces, engagements, sex video scandals, stepchildren misbehaving, mega efforts to one-up each other, extravagant parties, and even plastic surgery for a pet fish. But the prize everyone wants is the fabulous estate – Tyersall Park. WHO will get it?
I didn’t find this effort very engaging. I really wanted more of Nick and Rachel’s story, but they were side characters to all the drama. I did like the flashbacks to Su Yi’s youth and her experiences during WW2. However, on the whole Kwan writes these people so over-the-top that it’s hard to relate to any of them. I’m not even all that interested in what brand names they are touting. They are shallower that the damp spot on the sidewalk where I splashed a few drops of water.
Oh well, it’s a relatively fast read and I found all the gossiping and back-biting mildly entertaining.
Show Less
LibraryThing member thewestwing
Not as good as the other books but it did tie up all the various storylines.
Awards
Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year (Fiction — 2017)
Original language
English
Original publication date
2017-05-23
Physical description
7.95 inches
ISBN
052543237X / 9780525432371