This was pure escapism. I’ve never read a Kevin Kwan book before and while I know the plots are over the top, I still enjoyed the ride. It felt like a slightly meatier romance with many luxurious details that put you right into the scenes like the descriptions of exotic locations, mouth-watering food, and envious fashions. But with that being said, I’m probably not the target audience for a book like this. The amount of wasteful spending and excessive consumerism was a bit of a turnoff for me. I fully understand that this is supposed to be a fantasy life and that even some of the main characters in this book are also turned off by this display of wealth, but the frustration I felt took me out of the story some times.

With all that being said I did like the characters and their struggles. I did see the end coming but that didn’t matter so much to me seeing as how it was a quick and fluffy read. 3 1/2 stars. And thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy!

I'm a huge fan of Kevin Kwan but this book was not my favorite of his. The story itself was good but I struggled with the dialogue. Arabella was not realistic was a person, she was dramatized to an extreme that really pulled you out of the story. There also was an unrealistic pregnancy that didn't make sense. I'm sure there are readers who will enjoy this book, but it was not my favorite. I will still read whatever Kevin Kwan writes though! Thank you to Doubleday and NetGalley for this ARC.

This book is the type of thing Kevin Kwan does best-frothy, OTT, lifestyles of the rich and famous satire with an HEA. It does a good job of earning its title, with plenty of lies and multiple completely ridiculous weddings. Many of the characters are totally extra, Arabella especially. But Kevin Kwan is great at writing down-to-earth leads that make you root for them because they are untouched by the chaos around them.

I gave this four stars because of five because I think the satire carried the book-the plot itself was basic and predictable. It was still a fun read, though, and had everything that I love about Kevin Kwan's novels.

An exciting, and typical, Kevin Kwan romance. This was a sweet, quick read that has all the things that make Kevin Kwan's books so perfect: some how very relatable ultra rich characters, a mostly expected plot twist, and at least one over-protective out-of-touch mother wanting to dictate the lives of their children.

In Kevin Kwan's newest novel, Lies and Weddings, we visit another family of millionaire/billionaires who seem to have the world at their fingertips, but quickly reveal that nothing is at is seems. Kwan masterfully creates commentary on extreme wealth through laugh out loud comedic situations. Family dynamics are constantly spurring on the plot as, in typical Kwan fashion, the matriarch's main focus is marrying her children to the "right one". Kwan manages to be funny, while still examining family and romantic relationships in a way that is authentic and meaningful to the reader.
Kwan's prose and quick plot move the reader rapidly through the chapters. Interspersed throughout the present day story is the backstory that works together to bring the book to a masterful conclusions. Even the twists and turns the reader can predict, are still exciting as anticipation builds for the big moment in the story. Readers will cheer for Rufus Gresham as he tries to break free from his mother's plans for him. They will run the gambit of emotions watching Arabella Gresham try to manipulate and control the world around her, cringing at her over the top criticism and struggle for power, but empathizing with her motivations and intense desire to protect her family. The Drs. Tong are constant friends who have lived next to the Greshams for years, but as the story evolves, even these friends are not what they seem. Lies, deceit, over the top weddings, global travel...everything you've come to expect from Kevin Kwan is here! I couldn't put this book down!

Thank you Netgalley and publishers for the advanced copy. My only complaint is now I have so much longer to wait for the next book!

I had an arduous time setting this book aside. I kept wanting to read “one more chapter,” which I attribute to the testament to its writing.

Some of the characters exhibit multifaceted characteristics, some were challenging for me to find redeeming, and some were so superficial, yet it was necessary for those characters to be in the storyline. That is what makes great writing.

This book effectively blends elements of amusement with moments of profound reflection, facilitated through the characters' experiences and introspections. A remarkable feat, successfully recapturing the enchanting atmosphere of another acclaimed series, "Crazy Rich Asians."

Special thanks to NetGalley and Double Day Books for sending me this digital review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book was a sheer delight for me on my cruise holiday. As always Kwan has such a sharp wit and the ability to make us even love the villains. It was definitely worth the wait and I hope there will be a sequel.

Yet another wonderful read from Kevin Kwan. These stories are like listening to aunties gossip for hours. So much intrigue, scandal, and fascinating tidbits. I love Kevin's writing style and his books never fail to entertain.

Kevin Kwan’s new book, Lies and Weddings, had an entertaining plot. The story is replete with Kwan’s famous footnotes, his explanation of trendy fashion, and his description of everything wealthy. This is light reading, akin to a Cinderella story, and will likely appeal to anyone who is interested in fashion, titles, and wealth. There were several twists and turns that were interesting, but not unexpected. The best part of the story is the last chapter where Arabella says, “Marry her.” This phrase made me laugh out loud as it was perfectly orchestrated.
Thank you NetGalley for a ARC.

Unofficial Synopsis:
Rufus, the future Earl of Greshambury has a small problem. His family’s trust has been depleted. So now he’s faced with a tough decision, marry for money and help the family, or, forget about money and confess his love for the girl next door?

Will things work out as planned? Or will a secret, thought hidden for two decades, reveal a shocking twist?

Review:
This book was like a soap opera. While there was a lot I liked about this book, there were a few things that were tough for me as well. I found the chapters a little too short for my liking as it seemed just as soon as I got into the character, the chapter would change. That was my biggest drawback though and there was plenty to like! There were plenty of laugh out loud moments, I found the footnotes to be particularly hilarious. The drama in this book was superb and just so entertaining. There’s not necessarily a lot that happens in this book, but it is fun! There is some serious name dropping that happens throughout the book, but it wasn’t in an obnoxious way, it worked out and made perfect sense for the story.

I adore the cover of this book as well! It is just stunning, and I can’t wait for it to be made into a fancy special edition with some gold foiling. I can already picture it in my head, and I’ve spent the money lol.

This was a great book to get lost in -- a perfect vacation book! The resort setting is dripping with money and wild adventures. Similar to Kwan's earlier books, the backdrop of Lies and Weddings is true to his formula. The romance wasn't too in-your-face but was present. I loved the witty dialogue between characters and greatly enjoyed the chaos that the Gresham family brought. This is a great book for someone who is seeking a little escapism while being thoroughly entertained. I enjoyed and recommend Lies and Weddings if you're looking for a fun book to devour!

Thank you to NetGalley and DoubleDay books for the opportunity to read the ARC.

Kevin Kwan is back! I absolutely devoured Lies and Weddings in one sitting--I just couldn't look away from the drama. I can't wait to reread this title on a beach this summer.

Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for the ARC!

Oh my goodness! Just see what this non-crazy middle-class American is missing! I loved this book. I loved the fact that it was written in different timelines (not much of the book, but some). I loved what a *itch Arabella was-although she wouldn't see it that way. She would see it as being helpful. The father Francis...clueless, but are we really sure about that?

The backdrops, the money spent, and the people all add up to make this a hilarious read—well, not knee-slapping funny, just jaw-dropping funny. I mean, who in heaven's name would build a bazillion-dollar resort on an active volcano?

The twist at the end had me amazed. I saw some of it coming but not all of it, and it was just perfect.

*ARC was supplied by the publisher Doubleday, the author Kevin Kwan, and NetGalley. Many thanks. This is an ARC that I'm going to purchase to add to my collection!

It is the perfect beach read for anyone who is looking for something fluffy but well-written and very entertaining.

Another frothy, fun, fast read by Kevin Kwan to be released just in time for summer. This book is a perfect escape to take on vacation or to your front porch. This title is reminiscent of Crazy Rich Asians but meets the mores of todays social climate while maintaining the wildness that we love. It has just as many exciting twists, turns, and locations as previous books while still giving us the ending that we want, a generally happy one.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for allowing me to read and review this juicy title in advance.

ARABELLA IS A HORRIBLE HUMAN BEING!!!!!! Overall, I found the story to be highly enjoyable, especially because the characters (except for f*****g Arabella) were really enjoyable! I love Rufus and his two sisters who are all kids with titles figuring out life. Eden had a beautiful relationship with her father. This was like a rewrite of “Four Weddings and a Funeral” with a dash of family drama, Kevin Kwan’s scathing social commentary, and a splash of THE Captain Lee! I loved it!

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

Man, what a soap opera of a drama. Unique writing style with the footnotes etc. Was really tough watching the mother absolutely trash every one she supposedly loved but it was an easy read.

Rufus Leung Gresham's journey from privileged dilettante to potential savior of his family's legacy had me on the edge of my seat, or rather, lounging on my beach towel, completely absorbed in the drama.

First off, can we talk about the setting? A luxury eco-resort filled with the crème de la crème of society, set against the backdrop of a volcanic eruption? It's like Kwan handpicked the most lavish, extravagant locations just to make us swoon with envy. And swoon I did!

The characters are like something out of a dream, or maybe a slightly surreal nightmare, depending on your perspective. Rufus, torn between duty and desire, had me rooting for him even when he was making all the wrong decisions. And the women vying for his attention? Solène with her royal bloodline, Martha with her billions, and sweet, unassuming Eden - each one brought their own brand of chaos to the mix.

But what really sets Lies and Weddings apart is Kwan's knack for weaving a tale that's as juicy as it is hilarious. The secrets, the scandals, the betrayals—each twist and turn had me gasping and giggling in equal measure. And let's not forget the steamy romance, because amidst all the chaos, there's still plenty of heat to keep you turning those pages.

For any reader in search of a delightful escape from reality, complete with a sprinkle of romance to sweeten the deal, I couldn't recommend this book more. It's the perfect pick-me-up for those days when you just want to lose yourself in a world of glamour, drama, and intrigue.

Kevin Kwan’s best book after his first, Crazy Rich Asians. In Bridgertonesque fashion, the European aristocracy is turned multi-cultural and I love it! A summer must-read!

When Sir Walter Scott penned his famous line, "Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive," he must have been reading a novel by Kevin Kwan. This newest book by Kwan, author of the Crazy Rich Asians series, involves Hong Kong Chinese, British royalty, and various rajas, princesses, moguls and playboys who play hard and are used to the best.
Rufus Leung Gresham, hunky photographer son of Sir Francis, will come into the title of Earl of Gresham when his father dies. His mother, Arabella, a Hong Kong Chinese ex-supermodel, has taken to her role as the Countess Gresham with zeal, and has tasked her son and daughters to marry rich. But Eden Tong, the girl who lives with her dad in a cottage on the Gresham estate, won Rufus's heart years ago when they were kids and best buddies.
Arabella's contribution to the Gresham mystique is the designing and opening of several ultra-luxurious resorts under the "Bella" brand. Her newest resort on the Big Island of Hawaii named Bellaloha, is the perfect place to stage daughter Augusta's wedding to a Norwegian prince-oh, the publicity, oh-the spectacle. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had different plans for the wedding and Pele had her revenge, covering the wedding spot (and the whole resort) in molten lava. But the worst was to come-Lord Gresham gave his family carte blanche to spend money as they wished, but had secretly drained the inheritance, and they were broke. And it turns out that Augusta's wedding wasn't as lucrative as everyone thought it would be. Will Rufus find a rich bride to save the family fortune or will true love prevail?
Kwan throws in his signature tropes-designer clothes, exclusive clubs and restaurants, exotic locales such as Morocco, Beverly Hills, Kona, and Vienna, mega-money, and the exclusive pedigrees of all his characters. If you are looking for a fun read and pure escapism with a little romance thrown into the mix, pick up this novel...but first put out your Do Not Disturb sign.

The joy of Kevin Kwan’s books, besides the humor, is the opportunity to gawk at the excesses of rich people. One could argue that it is also their weakness— consumption so outrageous it inspires a thirst for a return to guillotining. He threads that needle adroitly in this book. Readers get to eat their cake and have it to because there are plenty of the .0001% spending ludicrously on their own whims, but there are characters we care about recoiling from the display. Getting to gawk and feel morally superior at the same time? That’s my kind of party.