Official Review: The One (The Only One) #1 by Belle Ami

[Tanaya]

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The One (The Only One) #1" by Belle Ami.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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The One is a romantic suspense novel by Belle Ami. It is the first book in The Only One series.

The story begins with the death of Adelia’s parents in a car accident. Adelia has a passion for horses and competes in Grand Prix jumping. After winning a competition, Adelia is approached by Karolin Bremen, whom she greatly resembles. Karolin invites her to a dinner party. There, Adelia meets Karolin’s twin brother Miles who happened to know her father, as both were involved in the green energy industry. Adelia and Miles quickly fall in love, though there is an ulterior motive behind this sudden romance.

Given their lifestyles, the characters travel a lot. The chapters jump around from California to Pennsylvania to New York. These changes in location and the passage of time are well handled. The story is told in the third person and provides a nearly full view of the various characters’ thoughts and actions. The reader is aware early on that Miles and Karolin have concocted some sinister plan with Adelia being the target. It's not her money they're after; they have enough of their own. Their plan is gradually revealed, along with the pieces of their history that led them to this point. It’s an effective approach that holds the reader’s interest. There are many erotic scenes, and I have to admit that I laughed a lot because of them, with lines like: “Instead of my horses being ridden, I feel like I’ve been ridden.”

This is the kind of book where everyone has a fascinating backstory. In particular, Miles and his sister were orphans who came from poverty. Miles worked hard to become rich, attain everything he ever dreamed of, and provide a suitable life for his sister. He and Karolin are understandably close given this set of circumstances, but their bond is also undeniably strange.

Adelia describes herself as a “sheltered, indulged only child.” But she seems very down to earth and her self-awareness keeps her grounded. We occasionally get to see her italicized thoughts. She tries to use logic and reason, but this is often combated by her lust for Miles. Fortunately, Adelia never lets go of the feeling that there is something mysterious about her parents’ car accident. She remains dedicated to discovering the truth. It's frustrating when she doesn't use her better judgment, but then she redeems herself by following her gut instinct.

I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. It was well written with great development in terms of both plot and characters. Even the more extreme plots points are all well justified and come across as believable given the great character work. The story also has a satisfying conclusion that sets things up well for a sequel. I’m interested to see what happens next. There are some instances of rape, so be forewarned. But if you’re intrigued by this two-fold mystery, then you should consider giving this book a try.

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The One (The Only One) #1
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Like Tanaya's review? Post a comment saying so!

[anonanemone]

I don't usually read romance but this one sounds like it has enough interesting plot to make it worthwhile. Thanks, Tanaya!

[Tanaya]

Yeah, which is what I really like about the book. The mystery and suspense were really good, and the fact that the romance was laced with secrets made for a great read.

[bluemel4]

Great review. I am adding this to my to-read list.

[Tanaya]

Ooh yay! Glad to hear it.

[Topcho]

This sounds quite good! I especially liked the fact, that - as you point out in your review - it is all justified and makes sense. I like it when the stories I read and the characters they are about are different from the mundane, but in the same time, it bothers me if the author doesn't make them natural enough. It seems like here, the author did a great job of achieving just this. I love me some nice romance novels, especially when it is paired with some other plot, like a mystery. So yup, it does go to my tbr.

By the way, the author has an interesting name - or rather alias, I guess. Lol, but I never actually liked that novel (please, classic lovers, don't kill me, I do like a great number of other classics!)

[Tanaya]

Hadn't heard of it before. I am bad with references...I just remember initially seeing the name and thinking that's one of the coolest names ever. Then, oh it must not be real. But it's still awesome.

[Topcho]

My guess is it comes from Bel Ami, the novel by Guy de Maupassant. We had to read it for school. My sister got it easy, because when she had the learn it, the movie with Robert Pattinson was already out and she just watched it, lol I wonder if the author chose it for a reason, but indeed, I like the ring of it.

[Tanaya]

Ahh now I know. Thanks!

[Cee-Jay Aurinko]

Excellent review Tanaya. The book sounds very interesting.

[TrishaAnn92]

Wonderful review! You made want to know how the story ends. My thought was "I must read." Lol

[Tanaya]

Well that's the perfect response to elicit. Thanks for letting me know!

[TrishaAnn92]

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[Noelle RJ-Author]

I just bought this book on Amazon based on the review. Can't wait to read it!

[angus2014]

Sounds good I will add to my list