45 pages • 1 hour read
Sex and Vanity: A Novel
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Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
Capri, Italy • 2010s
2020
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Kevin Kwan's Sex and Vanity, 19-year-old Lucie Churchill, a Chinese American biology major at Brown, attends a lavish wedding in Capri, Italy, where she meets the attractive George Zao. Struggling with her attraction to George and the expectations of her elite social world, Lucie navigates romance, reputation, and identity in contemporary high society. The novel discusses racism and classism.
Humorous
Romantic
Adventurous
Playful
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Kevin Kwan’s Sex and Vanity offers a vibrant mix of humor and luxury reminiscent of his Crazy Rich Asians series. Positive reviews applaud its lavish settings and engaging plot. However, some critics find it less compelling than his previous works with characters that lack depth. Overall, it’s a delightful yet somewhat predictable romantic escapade.
Who Should Read Sex and Vanity?
Readers who enjoy Kevin Kwan's Sex and Vanity are typically fans of contemporary fiction filled with opulence, romance, and cultural clashes. If you liked the extravagance and social satire in Crazy Rich Asians or the charm and wit in Sophia Kinsella's Confessions of a Shopaholic, this book will captivate you.
George Zao
George Zao
A primary character who contrasts with high society and influences Lucie to reflect on her desires and identity from their initial meeting at a wedding in Capri.
Charlotte Barclay
Charlotte Barclay
A secondary character and Lucie's cousin, who accompanies her to a wedding in Italy and whose elitist behaviors highlight the absurdity of their privileged world.
Cecil Pine
Cecil Pine
A primary character and Lucie's fiancé, whose boisterous and performative nature acts as a foil to George and represents societal validation for Lucie.
304
Novel • Fiction
Capri, Italy • 2010s
2020
Adult
18+ years
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