Reviews

The One by John Marrs

abbie_key's review against another edition

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mysterious reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

ilovebooksalltoowell's review against another edition

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5.0

What a thrilling story, I’ve just finished the second half after reading it all morning long. The story is so different and intriguing from the start, truly a must read. Each of the 5 stores are so different but at the same time they all show how the match changes their lives and not in a positive way…. It’s hard to write about the book without spoilers so just read it yourself!

janahain's review against another edition

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mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

shonawilson97's review against another edition

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4.0

Watched the Netflix series not realizing there was a book! Both are worth a listen/read/watch. I did find all the points of a view a bit confusing at first but once you get invested in their stories it’s hard to put down!!

librariangames's review against another edition

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167 pages in and nothing really thrillery is happening. Not keeping my attention.

the_real_tanya's review against another edition

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2.0

Utterly awful people in a book with a very poorly thought-out premise. It's as if the author didn't consult a geneticist at all.

If you want to read a much better take on DNA testing to find your One, check out The Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren. The science is better thought out and it's not full of horrible people

colechapp's review against another edition

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mysterious reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

faithsreadingthings's review against another edition

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3.0

3.5⭐️ It was hard to follow at first since there was so many people and I was listening on audiobook. After about half way through it started picking up more and I did become very fond of the characters. It wasn’t my favorite but it was still an entertaining and fairly good read

morganjean147's review against another edition

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4.0

The concept of this book really pulled me in, but the execution could have been better. I enjoyed the book enough for a four star rating and would recommend it.

natlbugz's review against another edition

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4.0

First John Marrs book I've read and it definitely won't be my last. Insanely good!!

A gripping and speculative take on the future of relationships through a genetic matchmaking service that promises to find each person their "perfect partner" based solely on DNA. The novel intertwines the lives of five vastly different characters who have taken the test, revealing unexpected consequences and fates.

Marrs masterfully crafts each narrative thread, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the ethical implications of genetic destiny. The characters, each in their unique situation—ranging from a serial killer hiding his true nature to a happily engaged woman whose match upends her life—illustrate the profound impact this technology has on society and personal identities.

The plot unfolds with intense pacing and numerous twists that keep the reader engrossed until the very end. Marrs doesn't just tell a story; he provokes questions about the nature of relationships and the underlying values that drive our deepest connections.

While the premise is intriguing and the twists are compelling, the multiple storylines sometimes feel fragmented, challenging the reader to stay connected to the overarching narrative. Despite this, the book’s exploration of complex moral dilemmas and its suspenseful, engaging writing make it a standout in the genre of speculative fiction/thrillers.

I rated this a 4/5 stars, recommending it to readers who enjoy thrillers with a psychological and futuristic edge. The novel is a thought-provoking journey that challenges the very notion of "perfect love" and whether science should dictate the heart.