A review by wonderwomannz
Only the Clonely by Ruby Dixon

3.0

I have listened to Ruby Dixon's work, particularly the "Ice Planet Barbarians" series. This alien romance, like her previous works, promised a blend of humor and intergalactic intrigue. However, I found myself feeling rather underwhelmed by this installment.

From my perspective, the book felt average at best. While Dixon's signature style of combining alien cultures with relatable human traits was present, nothing about this story truly stood out. The pacing can be described as medium—neither gripping nor particularly slow—but it lacked the tension and excitement that I’ve come to anticipate from her narratives. 

I felt that the character development was lacking compared to previous books. While the premise held promise, the characters did not experience the growth or depth one might expect in a romance novel. This left me feeling disconnected from their journeys and less invested in the overall plot.

One aspect that didn’t sit well with me was the character of Ruthie. Her portrayal struck me as weak, even as she attempted to project strength. This contradiction made it challenging to connect with her journey. Rather than feeling empowered, Ruthie often came across as frustrating, making it hard for me to invest in her character.

I found the storyline felt predictable.  As a fan of alien romance I often seek unique twists and surprises, but this book seemed to follow a well-trodden path without introducing fresh elements. 

I also didn’t enjoy the male narrator. While it has its moments of charm and humor typical of Ruby Dixon's writing, it ultimately didn't leave a lasting impression.