Thank you! You’ll be the first to know when this item is back in stock.
Oops! Something went wrong. Please try signing up for restock notifications again.
This title is currently out of stock, but don’t worry—we restock quickly! Enter your email below to be the first to know as soon as it’s available again.
Notify Me
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
Leone Ross
|
Faber
&
Faber
This One Sky Day
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
24% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.82
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
24% off
- Unit price
- / per
"This One Sky Day" will sweep you off your feet into the vivid world of Popisho, where every character's journey through a single, transformative day feels as rich and exhilarating as a lifetime. If the intertwinement of love, magic, and soul-searching speaks to you, and you savor a novel that paints every moment with lyrical beauty, Leone Ross's storytelling is a canvas of wonders waiting to come alive within you.
Kylie Ladd
|
Allen
&
Unwin
Mothers and Daughters
Regular price
RM23.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
35% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.29
Regular price
RM23.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
35% off
- Unit price
- / per
85% off est. retail
This book provides an insight into the complicated but beautiful relationship between mothers and daughters. It shows how they can navigate through the rough waters of adolescence while strengthening their bond. The setting of a tropical paradise only adds to the beauty and complexity of the story. Readers who enjoy exploring complex familial themes with relatable characters will thoroughly enjoy this book.
New
F. Scott Fitzgerald
|
Vintage
Classics
The Great Gatsby
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.93
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
39% off est. retail
The Great Gatsby is a timeless classic known for its intricate portrayal of Jazz Age America. It is a good read for those who enjoy books that delve into the complexities of love, the dangers of obsession, and the seduction of wealth. Fitzgerald's writing style is captivating, using vivid prose to create a world that is both glamorous and tragic. This book is perfect for those who are interested in the Jazz Age and the American Dream.
New
Paulo Coelho
|
Harpertorch:
An
Imprint
Of
Harpercollins
Publishers
Veronika Decides to Die
RM15.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.73
RM15.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
72% off est. retail
"Veronika Decides to Die" isn't just another novel; it mirrors life's most profound questions through the lens of a young woman's crisis. It's deeply moving for anyone who's ever felt overwhelmed by the monotony of life or trapped by societal expectations. Paulo Coelho's storytelling might just change the way you perceive madness, normalcy, and the fine line between the two. If you've been searching for meaning or need a reminder to appreciate each day, this book could be a soul-stirring companion.
New
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
"Bestiary" could be a profound journey for you if the blend of magical realism and rich cultural heritage intrigue you. You'll explore the complexities of family and identity through the lens of Taiwanese American folklore, all wrapped in a poetically charged narrative. K-Ming Chang's vibrant storytelling will likely leave a lasting impression if you're drawn to tales that marry the mythic with the all-too-human desires and secrets.
Sebastian Faulks
|
Vintage
Where My Heart Used to Beat
Regular price
RM42.00 MYR
RM30.00 MYR
29% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.67
Regular price
RM42.00 MYR
RM30.00 MYR
29% off
- Unit price
- / per
55% off est. retail
If historical depth and personal introspection intrigue you, 'Where My Heart Used to Beat' offers a poignant exploration. As you follow Hendricks's journey, you'll find yourself immersed in a narrative that weaves through the complexities of a life marked by war and love. Faulks crafts a story that not only captures the haunting echoes of the past but also holds a mirror to the human experience. A thoughtful read for those who appreciate a blend of history, psychology, and rich storytelling.
New
Douglas Parmée, Jules Renard, Pierre Bonnard |
Nyrb
Classics
Nature Stories
RM49.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.77
RM49.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
51% off est. retail
If nature's theater enchants you, 'Nature Stories' by Jules Renard is a compendium you'd adore. Each miniature is a vignette that breathes life into the flora and fauna, revealing a world where critters and greenery speak and feel, yet remain shrouded in enigma. Renard's craft infuses anthropomorphic charm without stripping away the untamed spirit of the natural world. It's a delight for both literary connoisseurs and nature lovers.
Elena Ferrante
|
Text
Publishing
Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay: The Neapolitan Novels, Book Three
Regular price
RM64.00 MYR
RM42.00 MYR
34% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.35
Regular price
RM64.00 MYR
RM42.00 MYR
34% off
- Unit price
- / per
This third book in Elena Ferrante's series further unravels the intricate lives of Lila and Elena. It's not just a tale of two women; it is an intimate map of their journey through the socio-political landscape of Italy, offering an immersive experience that feels very much real. You get to grow alongside the characters, facing life's gritty challenges and the bittersweet nature of change—perfect if you're drawn to stories of personal evolution and resilience.
Celia Fremlin
|
Faber
&
Faber
The Hours Before Dawn
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
56% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.78
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
56% off
- Unit price
- / per
72% off est. retail
Imagine you're so exhausted that reality begins to blur. That's Louise's life in "The Hours Before Dawn." Fremlin brilliantly paints a portrait of a woman on the edge, and the additional layer of an unsettling houseguest nests a thriller within a domestic shell. If you relish narratives that explore the psyche under pressure, dressed in the dark fabric of the '50s, this book will grip you, offering little reprieve until its conclusion.
New
O Thiam Chin
|
Math
Paper
Press
Love, Or Something Like Love
RM38.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.51
RM38.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
This book would be a good read for someone who enjoys thought-provoking and emotionally charged short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships. Each story in "Love, Or Something Like Love" offers a unique perspective on love, showcasing the raw emotions, hopes, and fears that come with it. O Thiam Chin's writing is both vivid and introspective, capturing the essence of love in all its forms, making this collection a must-read for anyone seeking a deep and insightful exploration of the human heart.
Romance Books
Paulo Coelho
|
Harpercollins
Publishers
(aust
Veronika Decides to Die
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
24% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.73
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
24% off
- Unit price
- / per
If you're feeling adrift, Coelho's book offers a raw glimpse into the psyche of a young woman wrestling with the meaning of her existence. It's a powerful exploration of life, choice, and the thin line between sanity and insanity that might just challenge what you think about your own life's purpose.
Lauren Weisberger
|
Harper
Chasing Harry Winston
RM38.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.37
RM38.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
If you found "The Devil Wears Prada" captivating, "Chasing Harry Winston" might just be your next favorite read. Lauren Weisberger offers another delightful and witty dive into the glamorous yet tumultuous lives of three friends. This book is great for those who enjoy a story about friendship and the search for love, all wrapped in the glitz of high fashion and jet-setting lifestyles. Enjoy as these friends take on a year of change, with the perfect mix of humor and heart.
Dorothy Koomson
|
Quercus
Publishing
The Flavours of Love
Regular price
RM23.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
35% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.96
Regular price
RM23.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
35% off
- Unit price
- / per
This book is a perfect choice for those who enjoy a tantalizing mix of romance and mystery. The Flavours of Love takes you on a delicious journey where love and suspense intertwine in unexpected ways. With every turn of the page, you'll be captivated by the mouthwatering descriptions of food and the complexity of the characters' relationships. Get ready to savor the flavors of love!
Kiera Cass
|
Harpercollins
Publishers
The Crown (The Selection)
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM23.00 MYR
32% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.63
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM23.00 MYR
32% off
- Unit price
- / per
If a dreamy, royal love story calls to you, "The Crown" by Kiera Cass will satisfy that longing for a fairy-tale ending with a contemporary edge. As the final installment of a cherished series, it delivers not just the thrills of an unpredictable love contest but also the warmth of finding unexpected love. It's perfect for a cozy, hopeful read that believes in the power of the heart to triumph.
New
Nicholas Sparks
|
Grand
Central
Publishing
Two by Two
RM51.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.95
RM51.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
If you're in the mood for an emotional story that explores the complexities of relationships, Nicholas Sparks' "Two by Two" could resonate with you. It delves into the struggles and triumphs of single fatherhood, and the unpredictable winds of change that life can throw at us. It's a touching narrative that might just tug at your heartstrings, urging you to reflect on the bonds that matter most.
Shelly Laurenston
|
Brava
Wolf with Benefits
Regular price
RM30.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.31
Regular price
RM30.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
81% off est. retail
This book is a wild and witty romance that will keep you engaged from start to finish. With a hunky werewolf hero and a feisty she-jackal heroine, the chemistry between Ricky Lee and Toni Jean-Louis Parker is off the charts. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of hilarious antics, intense action, and sizzling romance. If you're looking for a paranormal romance with a bite, Wolf with Benefits is a must-read.
Coelho Paulo
|
Random
House
Uk
Adultery
Regular price
RM42.00 MYR
RM34.00 MYR
19% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.08
Regular price
RM42.00 MYR
RM34.00 MYR
19% off
- Unit price
- / per
40% off est. retail
"Adultery" might resonate with you if you appreciate stories that delve into the complexities of marriage, fidelity, and the search for happiness. Coelho's evocative storytelling invites introspection, nudging you to contemplate the boundaries of contentment and the rush of stepping into the unknown. It's a provocative narrative that's as much about inner quests as it is about external choices.
Tasmina Perry
|
Headline
Review
Private Lives
Regular price
RM30.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.94
Regular price
RM30.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
76% off est. retail
Private Lives is a thrilling page-turner that will keep you on edge. With unexpected twists and turns, this book explores the dangerous plot of a scandal that threatens to take down those involved. The vivid storytelling and compelling characters make this a great read for anyone who loves a good mystery.
Cassandra Clare
|
Margaret
K.
Mcelderry
Books
City of Fallen Angels: The Mortal Instruments
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.07
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Recommendation:
- City of Fallen Angels could be a good read for those who enjoy thrilling urban fantasy with a touch of romance. The book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride as the protagonist, Clary, faces danger, betrayal, and a troubling revelation about herself. With its intricate plot and well-developed characters, this installment in the Mortal Instruments series will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the city's hidden secrets.
New
RM32.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
67% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good laugh and enjoys following the hilarious misadventures of Becky Brandon and her spirited two-year-old daughter, Minnie. From failed attempts at saving money to throwing a thrifty surprise party, Becky's antics will have you laughing and gasping on every page. Get ready for shopaholic chaos mixed with the adorable charm of a mischievous toddler. Prepare to be entertained from start to finish!