Expat life's joyful complexities and stark revelations.
If you've ever pondered what it's like to uproot your life for a spouse's career, "Travails of a Trailing Spouse" offers a candid peek into that world. It's more than a tale of relocation; it dives into the intricate social fabric of expat communities, the personal upheavals one faces, and the unexpected consequences of a life less ordinary. As you follow Sarah's journey of self-discovery and the vibrant cast of characters she meets along the way, you might find yourself reflecting on your own choices and what it means to truly find your place in the world.
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.
ISBN: 9789814747547
Authors:
Stephanie Suga Chen
Publisher: Straits Times Press
Date of Publication: 2018-01-15
Format: Paperback
Goodreads rating: 3.18
(rated by 162 readers)
Description
The adventure starts when Sarah’s husband, Jason, is offered a position at a university in Singapore. Sarah, a successful lawyer in the US, quits her job and the couple say their farewells, and, with their two children, fly off to a new country, a new condo, and a completely new life. The country is easy enough to adapt to (though the prices of some things? Jaw-dropping!) and Sarah and Jason soon meet the other expats in the condo. There’s Carys, the teacher, and good-looking Ian; Ashley, who keeps her apartment freezingly air-conditioned, and Chad, her amiable husband; Sara, who, like Sarah and Jason, is Asian-American, and John, who travels often for work. The couples form a close-knit group, and their evenings are soon filled with poolside barbecues, Trivia Nights, dinners, drinks and more drinks. But is it time to put the brakes on the craziness when Jason and Chad are arrested after a pub brawl? Why, with such a fantastic lifestyle, is Sarah starting to feel listless? When will Sara’s brave front finally crack? Who’s that woman in the lift with Ian? And what secret is Carys keeping from her friends? Not a simplistic novel of one-dimensional characters, Travails of a Trailing Spouse will strike a chord with anyone, expat or not, who has ever
Condition guide
Book Condition Guide
Books in Like New Condition
This book may contain very minor cosmetic defects, but it is in pristine condition. There should be no yellowing, no foxing, no water damage, and no annotations of any kind on the cover and the pages. For paperbacks, there should not be any crease marks on the spine. This book is good as new — lucky you!
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Very Good Condition
This book has been used, but it is still in a clean condition. There should be no foxing or annotations of any kind on the inner pages, but a sparse amount may be present on the cover, title pages, or outside edges of the book. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be light crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Good Condition
We do our best to ensure the quality of our books, but there is no escaping the wear and tear that comes with time. Slight foxing and some annotations may be present on the pages and the cover. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be several crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Well Read Condition
This is a well-read book, which means that the previous owner probably really enjoyed it! The cover and pages may include moderate foxing and annotations, but the text is not obscured and still readable. Moderate cosmetic defects and minor water damage may be present on the edges of the book. For paperbacks, there may be multiple crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Find out more about our process here.
Quantity selected exceeds current stock
Adding product to your cart
Expat life's joyful complexities and stark revelations.
If you've ever pondered what it's like to uproot your life for a spouse's career, "Travails of a Trailing Spouse" offers a candid peek into that world. It's more than a tale of relocation; it dives into the intricate social fabric of expat communities, the personal upheavals one faces, and the unexpected consequences of a life less ordinary. As you follow Sarah's journey of self-discovery and the vibrant cast of characters she meets along the way, you might find yourself reflecting on your own choices and what it means to truly find your place in the world.
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.
Similar Reads
Uncover books linked by topic and theme
Literary Fiction Books
Diane Johnson
|
William
Abrahams
Book
Le Divorce
Regular price
RM22.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
32% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 2.95
Regular price
RM22.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
32% off
- Unit price
- / per
86% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
This book could be a good read for someone who enjoys exploring cultural clashes and the complexities of relationships. With its sharp wit and keen observations, "Le Divorce" takes you on a journey through the Parisian bourgeoisie and the art world, while delving into the struggles of a cross-cultural marriage. Get ready for a humorous and thought-provoking experience that will leave you pondering on the complexities of love and identity.
Charles Dickens
|
Broadview
Press
Hard Times for These Times
Regular price
RM41.00 MYR
RM33.00 MYR
20% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.55
Regular price
RM41.00 MYR
RM33.00 MYR
20% off
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
If you've ever felt torn between cold hard facts and the warmth of human emotion, "Hard Times" might resonate with you. It's a classic Dickensian exploration that goes beyond a simple rich versus poor dichotomy, delving into the harsh realities of industrialization and its impact on human connections. Through vibrant characters, Dickens crafts a narrative that questions the value systems of his time—and perhaps ours too—making it a poignant read for anyone interested in the social questions that persist through ages.
New
Jock Serong
|
Text
Publishing
The Rules of Backyard Cricket
RM33.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.07
RM33.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
'The Rules of Backyard Cricket' could be your perfect companion if the blend of sports and suspense thrills you. Jock Serong's gripping narrative combines the intensity of competitive cricket with a dark, personal story of sibling rivalry and the pitfalls of fame. If you enjoy stories that explore the complexities of brotherhood against the backdrop of a thrilling and high-stakes world, this book's for you.
New
RM33.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"The Kite Runner" is a book that connects deeply with its readers through its powerful portrayal of complex relationships against the backdrop of a turbulent Afghanistan. You'll likely find yourself captivated by Amir's quest for redemption, as it prompts reflections on friendship, guilt, and the possibility of atonement. Readers often praise this novel for its emotional depth and the beautiful, yet heart-breaking, journey it narrates.
New
RM22.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
67% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
"The This novel delves into the complex emotional landscapes of adolescence, entangling you in Evie's struggle to find identity and acceptance, all set against the sinister backdrop of a cult. Emma Cline's literary craft shines as she weaves a story that's both a chilling historical fiction and an insightful commentary on girlhood and longing. Transporting you to the 1960s with its evocative prose, 'The Girls' promises to haunt long after the last page.
Luo Guanzhong, Moss Roberts |
University
Of
California
Press
Three Kingdoms: A Historical Novel
Regular price
RM70.00 MYR
RM52.00 MYR
26% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.26
Regular price
RM70.00 MYR
RM52.00 MYR
26% off
- Unit price
- / per
71% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
Diving into "Three Kingdoms," you're embarking on a journey through one of history's most pivotal moments—all through the lens of an author who masterfully blends history with literature. Luo Guanzhong's work is not just a window into the past; it's a mirror reflecting timeless truths about ambition, strategy, and human nature that still resonate today. If you've ever been intrigued by the grand scale of historical epics or the intricate dance of political power plays, this classic is your next must-read.
Aria Fafat
|
Walking
Stick
Publication
Once Upon A Fishbowl: The Story of a Blue Fish
Regular price
RM41.00 MYR
RM19.00 MYR
54% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 5.0
Regular price
RM41.00 MYR
RM19.00 MYR
54% off
- Unit price
- / per
60% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
Imagine a world where Serena Williams is a fish—yes, a blue fish—with dreams as big as her real-world counterpart. This book is a dive into a fascinating underwater realm with societal layers mirroring our own. "Once Upon A Fishbowl" will have you rooting for Selena Gilliams as she challenges 'yellow-privilege' and gender norms to play Bubble Ball. It's a tale that embarks on profound questions through a whimsical, imaginative narrative that sports fans and fantasy lovers alike can enjoy.
Alexander McCall Smith
|
Abacus
The Full Cupboard of Life
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
55% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.03
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
55% off
- Unit price
- / per
73% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
If you cherish stories that feel both tender and sincere, "The Full Cupboard of Life" could be a charming addition to your library. It's a gentle, comforting read that offers a window into the lives of characters who feel like old friends, with Mma Ramotswe's warmth and down-to-earth wisdom at its heart. The book's slow-paced narrative and explorations of everyday human relationships are much like a leisurely afternoon tea – soothing and delightful.
New
Amor Towles
|
Hutchinson
Heinemann
(part
Of
Penguin
Random
House)
Table for Two
RM59.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.21
RM59.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
43% off est. retail
In stock: Like New
If you've delighted in the bustling streets of New York through Towles's eyes before, "Table for Two" offers a fresh tableau with its mix of short fiction and a captivating novella. The collection is a veritable feast for Towles aficionados and newcomers alike, blending the subtle interactions of modern relationships with the allure of a bygone Hollywood. There's a narrative richness here, served with Towles's customary wit and sophistication, that promises to transport you from your reading nook straight to the heart of the city's hum and the glamour of the silver screen.
Rene Steinke
|
Riverhead
Books
Friendswood : A Novel
Regular price
RM26.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
42% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.24
Regular price
RM26.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
42% off
- Unit price
- / per
81% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
"Friendswood" is a great pick for readers who enjoy complex and emotional family dramas. Steinke's exploration of the aftermath of a tragic industrial leak and the effects it has on the town's residents is compelling and heart-wrenching. The book's unique feature lies in its ability to intricately weave together the lives of multiple characters, allowing the reader to understand the impact of the event from various perspectives. If you are a fan of stories that explore the resilience of communities during times of crisis, "Friendswood" is a must-read.
Romance Books
Burn : Book Three of the Breathless Trilogy
Regular price
RM26.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
42% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.99
Regular price
RM26.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
42% off
- Unit price
- / per
81% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
Burn, by Maya Banks, is a book that will appeal to those who enjoy steamy romances with dominant male characters. Our protagonist, Ash McIntyre, demands control in all aspects of his life, including sex. He becomes intrigued by Josie, a woman who is immune to his charms and does not seek his wealth. Ash's pursuit of Josie is relentless, but little does he know, Josie is the only woman who will drive him to the edge of desire and refusal. Burn has been praised for its seductive exploration of dominance and desire, making it an excellent choice for fans of the romance genre.
Lucinda Riley
|
Penguin
Hothouse Flower
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
55% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.01
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
55% off
- Unit price
- / per
78% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
"Hothouse Flower" could be really absorbing if you're into stories that straddle past and present. Lucinda Riley crafts a narrative that stitches together a family's history with the intricacies of a long-kept secret and its implications on the present. The novel's ability to transport you from the harshest conflicts of the Second World War to the intricate beauty of a Thai hothouse makes it a compelling read for anyone seeking depth and historical ties in their fiction.
E.L. James
|
Arrow
Books
Fifty Shades of Grey
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
21% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.66
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
21% off
- Unit price
- / per
62% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
"Fifty Shades of Grey" could be the guilty pleasure you're seeking. It's a tale that tests the boundaries of conventional romance with its blend of intense emotions and unexpected intimacy. If you're open to a provocative story that explores the complexities of control and forbidden desires, E. L. James's novel might just draw you into its addictive web.
E.L. James
|
Arrow
Books
Fifty Shades of Grey
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM19.00 MYR
42% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.66
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM19.00 MYR
42% off
- Unit price
- / per
72% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
If you're in the mood for a novel that veers into the depths of passion with a side of complex emotional dynamics, "Fifty Shades of Grey" might just be your guilty pleasure. The book isn't just about the steamy scenes—it also delves into the characters' psychological landscapes, which can be a compelling exploration for readers drawn to the intricacies of romantic relationships and the challenges posed by unusual desires.
Laura Thalassa
|
Lavabrook
Publishing,
Llc
Death (The Four Horsemen Book 4)
Regular price
RM48.00 MYR
RM33.00 MYR
31% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.29
Regular price
RM48.00 MYR
RM33.00 MYR
31% off
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
If you've been following The Four Horsemen series with bated breath, "Death" is your grand finale. Laura Thalassa expertly weaves the threads of doom with the tender complexity of love, delivering a story that's as much about the fragility of human connection as it is about the end times. Seeing an all-powerful being grapple with emotions against his nature is particularly stirring and might leave you contemplating love's place in the darkest of times.
Sandra Brown
|
Pocket
Books
Smash Cut
Regular price
RM19.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
21% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.04
Regular price
RM19.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
21% off
- Unit price
- / per
67% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
"Smash Cut" would be a good read for fans of legal thrillers and murder mysteries. The book offers a gripping storyline with unexpected twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The interwoven love affair between Julie and Derek adds a unique layer to the plot, giving readers a glimpse into the characters' personal lives while they work to solve the case. Sandra Brown's writing style is easy to read yet engaging, making "Smash Cut" a page-turner from start to finish.
Teri Bailey Black
|
Tor
Teen
Girl at the Grave
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
55% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.83
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
55% off
- Unit price
- / per
84% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
"Girl at the Grave" combines a richly atmospheric Gothic tale with a murder mystery, where Valentine must grapple with her family's dark past. The book's most unique feature is its ability to create a sense of redemption and hope, even in the midst of murder and guilt. Its appeal lies in its ability to be both haunting and heartwarming, making it an excellent read for fans of the mystery and romance genres.
Jodi Picoult
|
Hodder
Change of Heart
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
55% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.94
Regular price
RM33.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
55% off
- Unit price
- / per
69% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
"Change of Heart" is for someone who appreciates a deep dive into ethical dilemmas and the complexities of the human spirit. Jodi Picoult writes with a deft hand that weaves together the strands of tragedy, hope, and justice, making you question the limits of forgiveness and the power of love. As you turn each page, expect to be confronted with the tough choices we face and the profound impact they can have on our lives.
Alisa Valdes, Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez |
St.
Martin's
Griffin
Playing With Boys - A Novel
Regular price
RM30.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.62
Regular price
RM30.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
87% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
"Playing With Boys could be a great read for anyone looking for an inspirational story of three Latin-American women who overcome societal barriers to achieve success in their personal and professional lives. The book features relatable characters and well-written dialogues that make for an engaging reading experience."
RM33.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
44% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
If you've ever felt like the days just pass you by, "All the Bright Places" might truly resonate with you. It's a heart-touchingly honest exploration of finding beauty in the world, despite the presence of personal demons. With characters that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page, this book could be a reminder of the poignant power and pain of young love and mental health struggles.