whitmc's review
4.0
Really, really enjoyed this. A bit slower to start as you get to know the characters, but then it takes off and is a satisfying read.
mjsteimle's review against another edition
3.0
2.5 stars
This is a novel about a wealthy Chinese family. Early in their marriage Lina and Wei left China to do graduate school in America. A couple of decades later they return to China, where Wei works as an executive at a US-based advertising company. Wei's brother, Qiang, re-enters their lives, which causes all of them to reflect on the past.
I found this book to be okay. The beginning captured my interest but over time I grew bored with the characters and the slow pace of the story.
This is a novel about a wealthy Chinese family. Early in their marriage Lina and Wei left China to do graduate school in America. A couple of decades later they return to China, where Wei works as an executive at a US-based advertising company. Wei's brother, Qiang, re-enters their lives, which causes all of them to reflect on the past.
I found this book to be okay. The beginning captured my interest but over time I grew bored with the characters and the slow pace of the story.
wonderwhitman's review
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
gwencl's review
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
Good read about China but with the point of view of someone who has left and returned
kbellows27's review
4.0
This beautiful debut novel revolves around the Zheng family living in luxury in Shanghai. Through the past and present, the family and their employees grapple with ideas of family, love, loss, and life’s meaning. Told through multiple perspectives, it’s ultimately an optimistic story that yes, people can navigate the complexities of life.
mssarahmorgan's review
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
mollykduncan's review
4.0
I'm a sucker for a good family drama with complex characters and relationships, and this one fits the bill.
sassyram's review
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.75