Book Review: One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware
There’s something undeniably enticing about a Ruth Ware thriller. Her knack for infusing psychological tension into her plots has made her a staple in the genre. When I first glimpsed the tantalizing blurb for One Perfect Couple, the promise of a high-stakes drama infused with dark revelations hooked me immediately. But, much like the luster of a shimmering mirage, the excitement quickly faded, leaving me disheartened—and ultimately, I had to abandon ship at 35%.
Let’s talk about the premise. The book opens with a reality show framed as a social experiment—think twists of Cast Away and Survivor. It’s an intriguing concept, perfect for those of us hooked on adrenaline-fueled escapism. “One indeed can expect a showdown that challenges the very fabric of relationships,” I thought. Unfortunately, what unfolded was more akin to a soggy, overcooked lasagna. Where were the gripping layers? Instead, I found characters that felt inherently flat and frustrating.
Our protagonist, Lyla, is presented as a brilliant scientist, but that genius appears more as a flashy label than an authentic character trait. With a voice dripping in judgment, she critiques her fellow contestants with a self-righteous air, proclaiming herself above it all. Her disdain for the “lesser” participants made me cringe. I found myself yearning for her to display just a hint of vulnerability or relatability, yet all I discovered were biting remarks veiled under the guise of wit.
Nico, the ‘hot’ boyfriend, could have been a refreshing break from the monotony. However, Ware’s portrayal left him as little more than a walking stereotype. It felt almost caricaturish—the flirtation with depth unfulfilled. It’s frustrating to see such potential squandered on tropes that do nothing to advance the narrative. Note to authors: it’s 2023; we crave complexity above typecasts!
The writing, which I had hoped to find engaging, instead fell flat. With clunky foreshadowing and dialogue that felt more repetitive than refreshing, I often found myself skimming sections just to reach something—anything—that piqued my interest. I sensed that Ware was trying hard to create tension, but instead, I felt the narrative stall and drag like an outdated soap opera.
Yet, I can’t deny that Ruth Ware’s ambition shines through her desire to mirror contemporary issues with a glossy mainstream facade. However, for readers with a discerning eye, it ultimately reads like a formulaic attempt at relevance. I yearned for profound reflections, yet was left with shallow commentary and less-than-stellar characters.
While my experience with One Perfect Couple was far from the thrilling ride I anticipated, I recognize that many readers gravitate toward Ware’s accessible storytelling. This book may find its audience among casual thriller aficionados looking for a quick read without diving deeper into the pool of narrative complexity.
In reflecting on my journey through Ware’s latest, it hits home that not every book can resonate with every reader—and that’s okay. For those who seek a light escapade, perhaps this book might just fit the bill. But for me? Let’s just say I’m hoping for a more fulfilling read next time. Fin.