mr_pink_ink's reviews
619 reviews

The Pairing by Casey McQuiston

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slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.0

Thank you to <a href=https://www.panmacmillan.co.za/>Pan MacMillan South Africa</a> for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

We listen and we don't judge!

The Pairing by Casey McQuiston was a bit of a mixed bag for me. I Kissed Shara Wheeler was my introduction to McQuiston’s work, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So, when The Pairing landed in my lap, I had high hopes. Spoiler alert: it’s not that I didn’t like it; there were just… complications.

Let’s start with the good stuff, because there’s plenty to love here. First off, it’s queer. Very queer. Rainbow-confetti, glitter-bomb queer. And I am here for it. The writing is lush and descriptive, painting vivid scenes that feel like you’re watching a high-budget romantic drama unfold on the big screen. The story is cinematic and dripping with atmosphere. The characters? Chef’s kiss. They’re dynamic, flawed, and experience satisfying arcs of growth that feel genuine.

But then we hit some bumps in the road. Imagine curling up with a book, ready to be swept away, only to find yourself permanently reaching for your phone to Google pronunciations and references. It’s not exactly the escapist experience I’m looking for. And can we talk about the length? Over 400 pages for a romance book? I’m all for a slow burn, but this was edging into “can-we-just-get-to-the-point” territory.

“Love took root in me before I learned its name, and I've sat in its shade for so long now without eating its fruit. This feels as if I've finally taken a piece into my hands and split it open. It's so sweet inside.
Sour too, slightly underripe — but so, so sweet.”

And the food! Oh my word, the food descriptions were so mouth-watering that I was perpetually hungry while reading. This is not ideal when you’re trying to concentrate on the story and not your stomach. Also, can someone explain why everyone in Europe is apparently both ridiculously attractive and constantly ready for a fling? It felt a bit like an overly ambitious rom-com trope.

Then there’s the pacing. While the overall plot had potential, it got bogged down by an overload of micro-details that felt like unnecessary padding. I’m all for immersing myself in a story, but not when it feels like I’m wading through quicksand.

That said, if you’re a fan of steamy romance, second chances, dreamy European getaways, and decadent food and wine, this book might just be your perfect pairing. For me? Maybe I’m just not a romance girlie, but I’ll stick to admiring it from a distance with a snack in hand.