Crazy Rich Asians (Crazy Rich Asians Trilogy, #1)

by Kevin Kwan

[jesstheaudiobookworm]

4.75★ Audiobook⎮ I’m so glad I decided to start listening to Crazy Rich Asians. It truly is like Gossip Girl, but set in Singapore and way more extreme, if you can believe it. Crazy Rich Asians was unbelievably entertaining.

Crazy Rich Asians had all the drama of a soap opera, complete with unexpected twists. As a soap fan, I ate it up. I found it hilariously funny and delightful, like juicy gossip. It provided a great contrast to Vacation, a more contemplative book I was hearing at the same time. Crazy Rich Asians would make for a delicious poolside tale at whichever summer resort you choose to holiday. Or, you know, your own backyard.

Beginning this series has made me super excited for the upcoming movie. It was fun to be able to envision the cast members as the characters in my head while I listened. Most of the POV characters came across as very distinct. Some of the more minor characters, however, tended to blur together. Being unfamiliar with Chinese naming traditions, I found it a little difficult to grasp the who’s-who until about 75% through the book. It was a overwhelming trying to keep all of the characters and families straight, but still worth it. I ended up finding a family tree graphic on Pinterest that made it a lot easier.

I can’t wait for the movie to be released! I’ve been following the casting news eagerly and can’t wait to see it all come together. Hopefully the second and third installments of the series will also be picked up for the silver screen.

Narration review: Rich is a series that I was absolutely planning to continue on with. After finishing Crazy Rich Asians, I picked up its sequel almost immediately and began listening. I adored Lynn Chenn’s narration, even if it was a little fast-paced at times. As the story went on, I became used to it. She did an excellent job of differentiating between characters and displaying their personalities with her voice. Alas, I understand that narrator swaps have to be made sometimes, but I really wish Lynn could have finished out this series. Her replacement was simply not up to par and I doubt I’ll be able to finish the series because of it. Quelle déception!

However, I do encourage you to give the series a shot. I wholeheartedly recommend the first installment, Crazy Rich Asians, on audiobook. The second two, not so much. Whether you start listening on audio and switch to paperback or just read the entire series, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. ♣︎