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Graphic: Bullying, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Infidelity, Toxic relationship, Classism
Moderate: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Panic attacks/disorders, Grief
Minor: Misogyny, Sexism, Colonisation
Graphic: Bullying, Classism
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Drug use, Racial slurs, Racism
I have little to nothing in common with any of the characters, so I felt very much like an outsider. That's not a bad thing, in and of itself. I often choose "window" books on purpose, because I love experiencing other perspectives, other cultures, and other worlds! While I enjoyed the glimpse into wealthy Singaporean culture, I didn't enjoy the story itself.
On the one hand, I now want to visit Singapore, eat satay in an outdoor food court, and visit the Botanic Garden. On the other hand, I had very little interest in the main storyline or any of the characters. I loved Peik Lin, her family, and a few other side characters though.
The characters are almost all horrible people, completely unlikeable, and utterly uninteresting. The only character I found with any depth or complexity was Astrid, whose side plot captured my attention far more effectively than Nick and Rachel's story.
That said, the plot unfolds at good pace that kept me turning the page. The book is like a train wreck - I couldn't look away. At the same time, I just wanted it to be over. It's definitely funny, though it's not really my kind of humor. It's intelligent, sharp, and dramatic.
It's pure escapism, for sure, and if you enjoy high drama with low stakes, you will probably like this one!
Ultimately, it was just okay for me. I don't think I will be picking up the second book though. But, it's about Astrid, so... maybe?
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Bullying, Xenophobia, Classism
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Sexual content
Minor: Cursing, Alcohol
I found the beginning almost unbearable (that attitude of the ultra-rich).
From the middle onward, I kind of got used to it, and it became more enjoyable to read. I didn't find it funny though.
What I especially appreciate is that the insights into Southeast Asian/Chinese high society are probably quite authentic, thanks to the author's biography.
Graphic: Bullying, Sexism, Xenophobia, Gaslighting, Classism
Moderate: Racism
Minor: Alcohol
Moderate: Bullying, Cursing, Infidelity, Racial slurs
Minor: Child abuse, Pregnancy
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Bullying, Cursing, Emotional abuse, Infidelity, Alcohol, Classism
Minor: Animal cruelty, Bullying, Domestic abuse, Infidelity, Physical abuse, Rape, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Pregnancy, Colonisation
Graphic: Bullying, Classism
Graphic: Bullying, Racism, Classism
Moderate: Alcoholism, Domestic abuse, Drug use, Sexual content
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Bullying, Classism
Minor: Domestic abuse, Infidelity, Sexual violence