A review by conpierre
The One That Got Away: A Novel by Charlotte Rixon

dark emotional sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

The One That Got Away by Charlotte Rixon
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5 

This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. If you're looking for a simple second chance romance book this is way more than that. It's an intense story about love and the toxic winding road it can sometimes take us on. 

The story is told in dual POV and in a past and present timeline. The story is about two flawed people who fall in love in college but are eventually torn apart by a huge mistake. Clara is bright but clingy and possessive. Benjamin is bright but insecure and unfocused. They dated for two years and the present story takes place twenty years later. It was interesting to me how I had moments when I both liked and disliked the main characters. Their relationship was full of ups and downs and I felt exhausted at times of their merry-go-round of a relationship and at times just wanted to get off. We see in the present timeline that the pair have never really forgotten each other but life and circumstances have always kept them apart. When Clara becomes afraid that Benjamin was hurt in a bombing we go back in time to find out the big event that tore them apart. 

What I liked about it: Although I found the relationship exhausting I also found it realistic. I felt the chemistry between the two main characters through the pages. Ms. Rixon added a lot of depth to the pair and made them feel real. I'm a huge fan of dual POV and she did a wonderful job of ensuring both character's voices were heard. If you're looking for an emotionally charged read then this is the book for you. 
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