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The Couple
Millie is a perfectionist. She's happy, she's successful and, with a great support network of friends and family (and a very grumpy cat), she's never lonely. She loves working at a big tech firm and is on track be promoted to her dream role. The last thing she needs is romance messing up her perfectly organised world.
Besides, normal people just don't have romantic relationships. Everyone knows that being in a couple is a bit . . . well, odd. You know, like having a pet snake or referring to yourself in the third person. Why rely on another person for your own happiness? Why risk the humiliation of unrequited love or the agony of a break-up? No, Millie is more than happy with her conventional single life.
So, when Millie lands a new project at work, launching a pill that prevents you falling in love, it seems like the opportunity of a lifetime. That is, until she starts working with Ben. He's charming and funny, and Millie feels an instant connection to him.
Will Millie sacrifice everything she believes in for love?
Besides, normal people just don't have romantic relationships. Everyone knows that being in a couple is a bit . . . well, odd. You know, like having a pet snake or referring to yourself in the third person. Why rely on another person for your own happiness? Why risk the humiliation of unrequited love or the agony of a break-up? No, Millie is more than happy with her conventional single life.
So, when Millie lands a new project at work, launching a pill that prevents you falling in love, it seems like the opportunity of a lifetime. That is, until she starts working with Ben. He's charming and funny, and Millie feels an instant connection to him.
Will Millie sacrifice everything she believes in for love?
400 pages, Hardcover
First published May 27, 2021
41 people are currently reading
2097 people want to read
About the author
Helly Acton
5 books217 followersHelly Acton is a copywriter from London with past lives in the Middle East, Africa and Australia. Born in Zimbabwe, Helly and her family emigrated to the East Sussex coast when she was 15 years old. Here, she finished school and spent her holidays in Saudi Arabia, where her father had been placed with work. She studied Law at King's College London before following a more creative path into advertising. In her mid-twenties, Helly escaped the rat race and took a three-month career break to travel in Africa, India and Asia before landing in Australia. What was supposed to last one year ended up lasting six, and after a life-affirming break-up in Sydney she returned home to find herself the last of her single friends. Helly threw herself into the deep end of online dating in the city and uses her experience as a single woman in her early thirties, torn between settling down and savouring her independence, as a source of inspiration for her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
April 16, 2021
Millie, 29, works for ‘Slide’ the worlds fastest growing no strings attached sex app in a world where singledom is the norm and couples are scorned. Ben joins the company and the pair have to work on creative ideas for the launch of Oxytoxin, a pill that is an antidote to love so a perfect ‘ partner’ for Slide.
This is such an entertaining read and it makes really valid points as you progress through. The characters are so good, though not all likeable - yes, you Sasha. Millie is intriguing in her devotion to being in control, her desire for a timetable and singledom. Ben is her polar opposite, he’s funny, random, clumsy, has a liking for hangman and crosswords and zero filter which of course makes him so lovable. What develops is witty, funny, some of it is cheesy on occasions, at times maybe a bit corny but overall it’s just such good fun. The idea of Oxytoxin appalls which allows for some toe curling at the thought and with some of the research they carry out. The reality TV show ‘Single Me Out’ is equally the curling but then it’s reality TV (😁😏😉) and a send up of Love Island. I really like how Helly Acton has turned the world on its head in this novel (her introduction is so worth reading) with tax breaks for singles and parodies like St Bridget’s Day on February 2nd. It’s not one sided either as characters such as Ruth are in a couple. The message? Blow what society thinks or judges to be acceptable, go with your own flow and no one else’s, do whatever suits you personally and whatever choice you make is absolutely fine and nobody else’s business. Amen to that.
Overall, I really enjoy the spin and thoughts to mull on in this novel, it’s engaging, well written with whip smart dialogue and very easy to read. Another good one from the author and she’s one whose books I will always want to read.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Books, Zaffre for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This is such an entertaining read and it makes really valid points as you progress through. The characters are so good, though not all likeable - yes, you Sasha. Millie is intriguing in her devotion to being in control, her desire for a timetable and singledom. Ben is her polar opposite, he’s funny, random, clumsy, has a liking for hangman and crosswords and zero filter which of course makes him so lovable. What develops is witty, funny, some of it is cheesy on occasions, at times maybe a bit corny but overall it’s just such good fun. The idea of Oxytoxin appalls which allows for some toe curling at the thought and with some of the research they carry out. The reality TV show ‘Single Me Out’ is equally the curling but then it’s reality TV (😁😏😉) and a send up of Love Island. I really like how Helly Acton has turned the world on its head in this novel (her introduction is so worth reading) with tax breaks for singles and parodies like St Bridget’s Day on February 2nd. It’s not one sided either as characters such as Ruth are in a couple. The message? Blow what society thinks or judges to be acceptable, go with your own flow and no one else’s, do whatever suits you personally and whatever choice you make is absolutely fine and nobody else’s business. Amen to that.
Overall, I really enjoy the spin and thoughts to mull on in this novel, it’s engaging, well written with whip smart dialogue and very easy to read. Another good one from the author and she’s one whose books I will always want to read.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Books, Zaffre for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
August 19, 2022
Honestly, I think I would have enjoyed this more if it was advertised as the light dystopian it is, rather than a rom-com. The romance was mediocre (and the pacing at the end threw me off), but the societal stuff was really interesting!
June 4, 2021
Headlines:
The war of singledom versus coupledom
Banter for days
A question of ethics
If you asked me what genre The Couple was, I'd describe it like this: rom-com/women's fiction with side serving of dystopia. Have I read anything quite like it before? No. Did it deliver? Oh, yes.
Unusually, I'd recommend that you read the blurb before you start, otherwise you might not find your footing with the context easily because of that smattering of dystopia. I loved the context, the flipping on reality of singles and couples. I thought it was so clever to question the grand ethics of the world in this story and the idea of oxytocin. This was definitely a more feminist world than we live in.
Love is an illness. Love can make you miserable. Love can push you over the edge.
All that aside, the two characters at the fore, Millie and Ben brought a light and funny narrative. Ben especially was all the good guy you might need, alongside Millie's cautious nature. Their friendship was fun and genuine and it was enjoyable to see changes happen. They had a natural chemistry and they had banter. The texting dialogue was amusing.
Helly Acton has a signature style of writing and is really good at telling an innovative story you can buy into. Fans of The Shelf won't be disappointed with her second book.
I loke The Couple (not a typo).
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
The war of singledom versus coupledom
Banter for days
A question of ethics
If you asked me what genre The Couple was, I'd describe it like this: rom-com/women's fiction with side serving of dystopia. Have I read anything quite like it before? No. Did it deliver? Oh, yes.
Unusually, I'd recommend that you read the blurb before you start, otherwise you might not find your footing with the context easily because of that smattering of dystopia. I loved the context, the flipping on reality of singles and couples. I thought it was so clever to question the grand ethics of the world in this story and the idea of oxytocin. This was definitely a more feminist world than we live in.
Love is an illness. Love can make you miserable. Love can push you over the edge.
All that aside, the two characters at the fore, Millie and Ben brought a light and funny narrative. Ben especially was all the good guy you might need, alongside Millie's cautious nature. Their friendship was fun and genuine and it was enjoyable to see changes happen. They had a natural chemistry and they had banter. The texting dialogue was amusing.
Helly Acton has a signature style of writing and is really good at telling an innovative story you can buy into. Fans of The Shelf won't be disappointed with her second book.
I loke The Couple (not a typo).
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
March 26, 2021
Rep: LQBTQ+ side characters - f/f relationship - other f/f and m/m relationships are mentioned throughout and there are no incidents of homophobia
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier Books/Zaffre books for approving me to read The Couple! I was honestly so excited when I saw this up on NetGalley and even more excited when I was approved to read it.
Helly Acton does it again. I absolutely adored The Shelf and so when I saw that she was writing another book I knew that I would have to get my hands on it as soon as I could. And I am so glad I did; this was really the book I needed after some less than stellar books. It felt like a breathe of fresh air. Helly's plots and writings feel so unique and intriguing; a pill to stop you falling in love and a world where couples are the abnormal and single people are the normal? Sign me up to read that.
Helly somehow manages to balance making her stories serious with an edge of comedy that is done so well that once you pick the book up you just won't be able to put it down. I loved all the anecdotes the people in couples *gasp those terrible people* told about how much more difficult their lives were; the meals aimed at single people, the rent increases, the judgement... and my favourite, Bridget's Day - a day to celebrate the single people. No joke I feel like we actually need one of these in real life... it felt refreshing, comedic, but also really well-written. It didn't come off as cheesy or corny but I actually found myself imagining what this sort of world would be like and really sinking into the story.
I loved our main characters of Millie and Ben; such a comedic duo together with a balance of heart and sarcasm. Millie is such a fab main character; you can see the development she goes on throughout the book and it was really enjoyable to just watch her grow as a person. I also felt there was a good balance of side characters who were well developed as individuals but also in their friendships and relationships with Millie.
I found this to be delightfully refreshing and I can't wait to see what Helly comes up with next!
Out 27 May 2021 for you to make your own decision!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier Books/Zaffre books for approving me to read The Couple! I was honestly so excited when I saw this up on NetGalley and even more excited when I was approved to read it.
Helly Acton does it again. I absolutely adored The Shelf and so when I saw that she was writing another book I knew that I would have to get my hands on it as soon as I could. And I am so glad I did; this was really the book I needed after some less than stellar books. It felt like a breathe of fresh air. Helly's plots and writings feel so unique and intriguing; a pill to stop you falling in love and a world where couples are the abnormal and single people are the normal? Sign me up to read that.
Helly somehow manages to balance making her stories serious with an edge of comedy that is done so well that once you pick the book up you just won't be able to put it down. I loved all the anecdotes the people in couples *gasp those terrible people* told about how much more difficult their lives were; the meals aimed at single people, the rent increases, the judgement... and my favourite, Bridget's Day - a day to celebrate the single people. No joke I feel like we actually need one of these in real life... it felt refreshing, comedic, but also really well-written. It didn't come off as cheesy or corny but I actually found myself imagining what this sort of world would be like and really sinking into the story.
I loved our main characters of Millie and Ben; such a comedic duo together with a balance of heart and sarcasm. Millie is such a fab main character; you can see the development she goes on throughout the book and it was really enjoyable to just watch her grow as a person. I also felt there was a good balance of side characters who were well developed as individuals but also in their friendships and relationships with Millie.
I found this to be delightfully refreshing and I can't wait to see what Helly comes up with next!
Out 27 May 2021 for you to make your own decision!
August 22, 2021
As a huge fan of The Shelf I had been expecting to get along famously with Helly Acton’s second novel, The Couple, which takes it inspiration from single women in their early thirties torn between settling down and savouring their independence. The story is set in a world where being single is something to be embraced and where being in a couple is frowned upon and something that often has to be defended. Millie works at Slide, the world’s fastest-growing strings-free sex app, and is perfectly satisfied with her life and with just a year to go until her thirtieth birthday she is on track for a promotion to chief creative officer. The recent acquisition of the company by Human, a massive American corporation renowned for its innovative products, sees the Slide team tasked with marketing Oxytoxin: a pill that prevents the body’s glands from releasing the hormones that create the sensation of being in love. When she is tasked with pitching ideas for the launch of Oxytoxin, dubbed the world’s first antidote for love, she is paired up with chaotic new starter, Ben, and chemistry intervenes. Millie is very quickly smitten by her co-worker whose parents are still a couple and who firmly believes that couples can be happy sharing experiences together.
I was expecting the novel to have much more depth that it did and it very quickly boiled down to an opposites attract workplace romantic comedy and whether Millie would have the courage to try something out of her comfort zone and couple up with Ben. Rather than thought provoking it just seemed obvious that everyone should please themselves and make their own choice. The ideas for marketing Oxytoxin to the broken-hearted, the unfocused, hormonal teens and the financially penalised were also laboured and quickly became repetitive. I didn’t think the novel flowed particularly well either and whilst Helly Acton writes punchily, with terrific humour and realistic dialogue, reading the novel felt like a sequence of disjointed scenes simply tacked onto each other.
I immediately connected with perfectionist and routine obsessed Millie who was concerned about how she was perceived and understood the pressures she felt from both within her own family and wider society. She was certainly a character I could relate to however I had issues with the skimpy characterisation of Ben who never really emerged from his buffoonish exterior into a more multidimensional character and someone that felt on Millie’s wavelength. Vehemently anti-couple best friend, June, and happily coupled up Ruth seemed to be solely about their relationship status and nothing more. Admittedly I did have trouble getting my head around the alternate reality world and never quite clicked with the idea despite the story including a reality TV show to split from your partner (“Single Me Out!”), lower rents for sole occupants and cheaper health insurance for singles. Unfortunately I just got bored of the gimmicky alternate reality, the novelty of Oxytoxin and the will/won’t they romance and the book became a slog. I am not however a romantic comedy reader by choice and I suspect those that are will get on far better with this book than I did.
I was expecting the novel to have much more depth that it did and it very quickly boiled down to an opposites attract workplace romantic comedy and whether Millie would have the courage to try something out of her comfort zone and couple up with Ben. Rather than thought provoking it just seemed obvious that everyone should please themselves and make their own choice. The ideas for marketing Oxytoxin to the broken-hearted, the unfocused, hormonal teens and the financially penalised were also laboured and quickly became repetitive. I didn’t think the novel flowed particularly well either and whilst Helly Acton writes punchily, with terrific humour and realistic dialogue, reading the novel felt like a sequence of disjointed scenes simply tacked onto each other.
I immediately connected with perfectionist and routine obsessed Millie who was concerned about how she was perceived and understood the pressures she felt from both within her own family and wider society. She was certainly a character I could relate to however I had issues with the skimpy characterisation of Ben who never really emerged from his buffoonish exterior into a more multidimensional character and someone that felt on Millie’s wavelength. Vehemently anti-couple best friend, June, and happily coupled up Ruth seemed to be solely about their relationship status and nothing more. Admittedly I did have trouble getting my head around the alternate reality world and never quite clicked with the idea despite the story including a reality TV show to split from your partner (“Single Me Out!”), lower rents for sole occupants and cheaper health insurance for singles. Unfortunately I just got bored of the gimmicky alternate reality, the novelty of Oxytoxin and the will/won’t they romance and the book became a slog. I am not however a romantic comedy reader by choice and I suspect those that are will get on far better with this book than I did.
April 6, 2021
Based in a slightly alternative reality in which our relationship norms are flipped and it’s far more common to be single with couples regarded as unusual, this was a thought-provoking and heartwarming read. Millie is in her 30s and very focused on her career, actively discouraged by her friends and mother from pursuing a relationship. Millie has felt the same until a new colleague starts to challenge her perception of relationships... I loved the protagonist, Millie, her potential love interest and her friends - these were engaging and interesting characters and I felt very absorbed in their world! I couldn’t put this book down and am excited to read more from Helly Acton
May 30, 2021
Imagine a world where being single was the norm and those in relationships were viewed as not only unusual, but less-than. Or a world where there’s a drug designed to prevent you falling in love. That is the world of The Couple, the delightful new book by Helly Acton. This book was a joy to read from beginning to end. A glorious mix of humorous, warm and compelling writing, the author also examines and challenges our perceptions of society, life and love.
I adored Millie and Ben. Millie is a Type-A personality, a demure perfectionist with a love of schedules, order and control. She knows what she wants to achieve and won’t let anything get in her way. Yet there is also a vulnerability to her in her eagerness to please, concern about what others think and the panic attacks she suffers from. And then there’s Ben. Ben is ebullient, spontaneous, chaotic, adventurous and doesn’t care what others think. But he is also funny, kind, thoughtful and charming. I could see why Millie fell for him. The author expertly conveys Millie’s torment over her feelings for Ben and how the idea of even a crush, let alone being in love or having a relationship filled her with dread and a sense that there was something wrong with her. Their chemistry leapt from the pages and while it might seem cheesy and predictable, I found it well written, hopeful and authentic. It was impossible not to root for them and hope they would have the happy ending they deserve.
At the beginning of the book the author explains that she wanted to write a book for the happy single people who are tired of being made to feel ‘less than’ because they’re not in a relationship. There is a lot of societal pressure to be part of a couple, meaning some settle for unhappy, bad or toxic relationships just to be part of one. It was fascinating to see how the world could look if the roles were reversed. I enjoyed the discussions between those on different sides of the debate and thought that the addition of a new drug that is the antidote for love was a brilliant and thought-provoking concept. For all the heartache and struggles that love can sometimes bring, do we really want to live in a world without romantic love?
All the stars for this funny, entertaining and uplifting book that gave me all the feels. A refreshing twist on the usual love story, I devoured it quickly. Perfect to lose yourself in, I highly recommend you read this book.
I adored Millie and Ben. Millie is a Type-A personality, a demure perfectionist with a love of schedules, order and control. She knows what she wants to achieve and won’t let anything get in her way. Yet there is also a vulnerability to her in her eagerness to please, concern about what others think and the panic attacks she suffers from. And then there’s Ben. Ben is ebullient, spontaneous, chaotic, adventurous and doesn’t care what others think. But he is also funny, kind, thoughtful and charming. I could see why Millie fell for him. The author expertly conveys Millie’s torment over her feelings for Ben and how the idea of even a crush, let alone being in love or having a relationship filled her with dread and a sense that there was something wrong with her. Their chemistry leapt from the pages and while it might seem cheesy and predictable, I found it well written, hopeful and authentic. It was impossible not to root for them and hope they would have the happy ending they deserve.
At the beginning of the book the author explains that she wanted to write a book for the happy single people who are tired of being made to feel ‘less than’ because they’re not in a relationship. There is a lot of societal pressure to be part of a couple, meaning some settle for unhappy, bad or toxic relationships just to be part of one. It was fascinating to see how the world could look if the roles were reversed. I enjoyed the discussions between those on different sides of the debate and thought that the addition of a new drug that is the antidote for love was a brilliant and thought-provoking concept. For all the heartache and struggles that love can sometimes bring, do we really want to live in a world without romantic love?
All the stars for this funny, entertaining and uplifting book that gave me all the feels. A refreshing twist on the usual love story, I devoured it quickly. Perfect to lose yourself in, I highly recommend you read this book.
May 29, 2021
I don't normally include the synopsis to my reviews, but when adding my review there wasn't one available on GR. So behind a
A really unique and interesting idea for a story, where in a slightly alternative reality to ours being single is the norm and relationships are looked down on. As someone who has chosen to be single, the clever way that Acton flipped the roles around really resonated with me and I highly appreciated her challenging the norms and prejudices of our relationship culture.
The pairing of Millie and Ben were adorable together, with some really witty banter keeping the feel of the story light while discussing some deeper issues.
I did find the story dragged a bit towards the end, with the same points being repeated but overall really interesting and enjoyable read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher / author for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review.
A really unique and interesting idea for a story, where in a slightly alternative reality to ours being single is the norm and relationships are looked down on. As someone who has chosen to be single, the clever way that Acton flipped the roles around really resonated with me and I highly appreciated her challenging the norms and prejudices of our relationship culture.
The pairing of Millie and Ben were adorable together, with some really witty banter keeping the feel of the story light while discussing some deeper issues.
I did find the story dragged a bit towards the end, with the same points being repeated but overall really interesting and enjoyable read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher / author for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review.
June 24, 2022
Well this was a thought provoking one that's for sure. I read and loved The Shelf, so I'm annoyed with myself that I left this one so long!
The Couple is set in an alternate universe kind of where couples are looked down upon and being single is the way forward.
Millie works for a marketing agency and is tasked with pitching a new pill that will stop people falling in love completely. She is steadfastly single, that is until Ben joins the company.
Gosh there is so much to unpack with this book, it would make an excellent bookclub choice, with loads of discussion points.
How single people are treated now and how they are in the book, tax breaks etc. I loved Millie as a character and how she battled with her own morals when marketing the pill.
The friendships were great and had a balanced dynamic and Ben was fab as the maybe love interest.
Highly recommended
The Couple is set in an alternate universe kind of where couples are looked down upon and being single is the way forward.
Millie works for a marketing agency and is tasked with pitching a new pill that will stop people falling in love completely. She is steadfastly single, that is until Ben joins the company.
Gosh there is so much to unpack with this book, it would make an excellent bookclub choice, with loads of discussion points.
How single people are treated now and how they are in the book, tax breaks etc. I loved Millie as a character and how she battled with her own morals when marketing the pill.
The friendships were great and had a balanced dynamic and Ben was fab as the maybe love interest.
Highly recommended
August 2, 2021
⭐ A totally refreshing, thought-provoking twist on a rom-com. What if being in a couple was seen as weird & undesirable by society?
⭐ It is funny & full of wit. The banter between the characters and Millie's inner thoughts won't fail to make you grin & have a good giggle.
⭐ The characters are fabulous. Millie is relatable from page one and I loved watching her character's growth throughout the novel. Ben is soooooooo swoon-worthy you, smart, charming. funny & gorgeous - what's not to love? & the rest of the gang are well developed.
⭐ So brilliantly written and engaging it is a hard one to put down.
☆ I felt the last few chapters were a bit rushed
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Disclaimer: A huge thanks to Zaffre Books & NetGalley for sending me this title for an honest & unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
⭐ It is funny & full of wit. The banter between the characters and Millie's inner thoughts won't fail to make you grin & have a good giggle.
⭐ The characters are fabulous. Millie is relatable from page one and I loved watching her character's growth throughout the novel. Ben is soooooooo swoon-worthy you, smart, charming. funny & gorgeous - what's not to love? & the rest of the gang are well developed.
⭐ So brilliantly written and engaging it is a hard one to put down.
☆ I felt the last few chapters were a bit rushed
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Disclaimer: A huge thanks to Zaffre Books & NetGalley for sending me this title for an honest & unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2022
Reflections and lessons learned:
“Conditioning can be so dangerous…”
I once knew a mom that genuinely thought that although she loved her son in law, that her daughter would have lived a happier life as a single girl (and sometimes suggested that I was possibly of a similar ilk to her daughter). Did she hate love? No, she was happily married herself, loved her husband and often talked about him. She was totally right though in the recognition that relationships may not be for everyone and conformation to the perceived norms can make people unhappy.
In this, not only has Acton managed to write a book around interesting characters with story progression, but as with The Shelf, also managed to weave the concept of new ways of thinking around relationships throughout as an ongoing dialogue. Again, a lovely explanatory letter in the end surprises me on Acton’s actual take on the theory, but shows her versatility rather than needing for it to be a hidden lecture - not deep but thought provoking in other ways
“Conditioning can be so dangerous…”
I once knew a mom that genuinely thought that although she loved her son in law, that her daughter would have lived a happier life as a single girl (and sometimes suggested that I was possibly of a similar ilk to her daughter). Did she hate love? No, she was happily married herself, loved her husband and often talked about him. She was totally right though in the recognition that relationships may not be for everyone and conformation to the perceived norms can make people unhappy.
In this, not only has Acton managed to write a book around interesting characters with story progression, but as with The Shelf, also managed to weave the concept of new ways of thinking around relationships throughout as an ongoing dialogue. Again, a lovely explanatory letter in the end surprises me on Acton’s actual take on the theory, but shows her versatility rather than needing for it to be a hidden lecture - not deep but thought provoking in other ways
May 22, 2021
I read Helly Acton's previous book and enjoyed it, so was looking forward to reading this one.
The premise of this book felt really original, and I was super intrigued to read. I had heard great things from some online 'influencers' too.
However I didn't really enjoy this book. I found the pacing really slow, and it took me a long time to get into the swing of it. I found all of the characters at the beginning far too similar and that made it hard for me to keep track of what was going on, and to who. Because of this the whole book just felt a bit of a struggle. I don't think it knew exactly what it was... was it a romantic comedy? Was it thriller/mystery? The book just didn't work for me. I didn't like the characters, and therefore didn't route for the relationships within the book either. I wasn't sure what i was supposed to think?
Not for me - but based on the reviews on here, looks like i'm in the minority!
The premise of this book felt really original, and I was super intrigued to read. I had heard great things from some online 'influencers' too.
However I didn't really enjoy this book. I found the pacing really slow, and it took me a long time to get into the swing of it. I found all of the characters at the beginning far too similar and that made it hard for me to keep track of what was going on, and to who. Because of this the whole book just felt a bit of a struggle. I don't think it knew exactly what it was... was it a romantic comedy? Was it thriller/mystery? The book just didn't work for me. I didn't like the characters, and therefore didn't route for the relationships within the book either. I wasn't sure what i was supposed to think?
Not for me - but based on the reviews on here, looks like i'm in the minority!
August 22, 2022
Fight or Flight
Millie is driven and has had a plan since she was 16 that depicts where she wants to be career wise and she is happily single and working for a company who promotes being in a couple is so last year and casual sex is the thing. They go much further and want to develop a pill that prevents broken hearts and it all seems to make sense to Millie until new recruit Ben arrives on the scene.
Millie does not think she has time for relationships but she hits it off with Ben. The company would not like the idea because it goes against what they believe.
Now Millie who loves routine finds herself conflicted. Is she really free with her choices? Does she still believe relationships are not for her?
There are quite a few laughs and enlightening moments and will Millie take a leap of faith.
Millie is driven and has had a plan since she was 16 that depicts where she wants to be career wise and she is happily single and working for a company who promotes being in a couple is so last year and casual sex is the thing. They go much further and want to develop a pill that prevents broken hearts and it all seems to make sense to Millie until new recruit Ben arrives on the scene.
Millie does not think she has time for relationships but she hits it off with Ben. The company would not like the idea because it goes against what they believe.
Now Millie who loves routine finds herself conflicted. Is she really free with her choices? Does she still believe relationships are not for her?
There are quite a few laughs and enlightening moments and will Millie take a leap of faith.
July 22, 2022
My thoughts (slight spoilers):
I love this book! Everything about it is just really amazing.
For starters there is a lot of lgbtqia+ representation without it being overly promoted. It gives it a sense of normality, the characters don't have to state that they're gay all the time because it's not necessary and everyone is welcome to be who they are.
The world building makes the plot line especially great. Couples are seen as shameful and are frowned upon by singles who made it far in life and are successful, fully being able to 'Stay focused'. In some cases this may be true but Ruth is one of those examples that proves this to be quite bs. Ruth is successful and in a relationship and from what it looks like she's happier than ever.
What I love about this book is that we follow Millie, a picture perfect success on paper, she's married to her work and her lovely friends but the idea of her being in a couple doesn't fit into the picture at all. As the facade of her perfect life begins to crumble because of Ben, her polar opposite entering her life, she begins to discover a new and happier side of her. Someone carefree and not keen on proofing herself to be perfect all the time.
It's great to see her progress throughout the book but she still remains the same fun, loving and caring person. I would trust her with my life easily, Ben might accidentally kill me (obviously I'm just kidding).
The writing was to my taste amazing, it felt like I could read 20 pages in a second and was transported right into each scene.
The ending left me really hopeful for change and therfore brought me loads of joy!
All in all I loved the book!
I love this book! Everything about it is just really amazing.
For starters there is a lot of lgbtqia+ representation without it being overly promoted. It gives it a sense of normality, the characters don't have to state that they're gay all the time because it's not necessary and everyone is welcome to be who they are.
The world building makes the plot line especially great. Couples are seen as shameful and are frowned upon by singles who made it far in life and are successful, fully being able to 'Stay focused'. In some cases this may be true but Ruth is one of those examples that proves this to be quite bs. Ruth is successful and in a relationship and from what it looks like she's happier than ever.
What I love about this book is that we follow Millie, a picture perfect success on paper, she's married to her work and her lovely friends but the idea of her being in a couple doesn't fit into the picture at all. As the facade of her perfect life begins to crumble because of Ben, her polar opposite entering her life, she begins to discover a new and happier side of her. Someone carefree and not keen on proofing herself to be perfect all the time.
It's great to see her progress throughout the book but she still remains the same fun, loving and caring person. I would trust her with my life easily, Ben might accidentally kill me (obviously I'm just kidding).
The writing was to my taste amazing, it felt like I could read 20 pages in a second and was transported right into each scene.
The ending left me really hopeful for change and therfore brought me loads of joy!
All in all I loved the book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2021
*NetGalley review*
Loved this book! It has great queer representation which isn’t made a thing of, fleshed out characters and a clever spin on western monogamous relationship norms where this isn’t the expected, or desired, outcome for most people which was refreshing to read.
Her characters are deep enough to be flawed but still, ultimately, good people you can root for.
Loved this book! It has great queer representation which isn’t made a thing of, fleshed out characters and a clever spin on western monogamous relationship norms where this isn’t the expected, or desired, outcome for most people which was refreshing to read.
Her characters are deep enough to be flawed but still, ultimately, good people you can root for.
December 13, 2025
Been a bit stressed out at work and not sleeping very well with bad dreams so my boyfriend told me to stop reading the tattooist of auschwitz before bed and opt for something a bit more lighthearted so here we are x This was also complete rubbish to read and a bit shit but comforting, easy to read, good to fall asleep to, cosy and cutesy and helped me sleep better !!!
June 3, 2024
The characters were annoying and cringey, the dialogue hardly ever flowed and the editing was appalling (multiple typos and at one point two characters swapped names and never switched back for the rest of the book).
Read
May 22, 2022It’s not my favourite I must say but then again I couldn’t put it down
March 17, 2022
Ease of Reading: 5✨
Characters: 3✨
Plot: 3✨
Overall: 3✨
Format: Audiobook
Month Read: March 22
Recommend: Yes
Enjoyable read and interesting concept. Likeable characters and fast paced.
Characters: 3✨
Plot: 3✨
Overall: 3✨
Format: Audiobook
Month Read: March 22
Recommend: Yes
Enjoyable read and interesting concept. Likeable characters and fast paced.
April 10, 2021
I made a mistake yesterday... I started this wonderful book at lunchtime knowing I had half a days work still ahead of me. So I will warn the rest of you who have an ARC, a preorder or may be planning to buy it in the future - clear your diaries. There are times when you pick up a book and you just know that you’re not going to move for the rest of the day, so today that is what I did! I’m not sure how Helly has managed to bring us 2 fantastic novels and have a baby in a pandemic but she did it 😂 The Couple subverts societal norms by having singletons ruling the world and couples being the forever queried and often shunned (we’ve all got that weird uncle who asks when we’re finding a partner, right?). I laughed out loud reading this, I wanted to skip to the end to find out what happened to our protagonist and genuinely I’d quite like to see some fan casting of characters!! Thank you so much Zaffre for sending this and @hellyactonauthor thank you for writing such a funny and heartwarming story!
May 8, 2021
The Shelf was probably one of my favourite books from last year so when my Netgalley request for the authors' new book was approved it's safe to say I was very excited and couldn't resist starting it immediately.
Unfortunately however while the premise of this story is wonderful and I completely get what the author was trying to do, there was something about it that just didn't work for me. Don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike it and there are some wonderful moments, but it didn't live up to my admittedly high expectations.
I guess my biggest issue was the world the author created. It's a neat idea to flip societal norms on their head and make being single the norm and relationships the thing to be avoided or shameful of. As a singleton I've definitely experienced a lot of what this highlights, how you can be made to feel odd, how everything is more expensive, the comments and judgement, however this felt a little bit too on the nose. Maybe it's because I don't need these things pointed out to me but it felt overdone and repetitive. It also seemed a little inconsistent at times, how it was fine for friends to live together, eat together, co parent, but not for a romantic couple.
I also wasn't entirely sold on main character Millie or love interest Ben. Millie was a bit too uptight, too much of a control freak and a perfectionist. She has her routines and her plans and she's not moving from them. As this pretty much describes me though I suspect my problem with her is that I found her too relatable.
As for Ben, I did like him in a he'd be fun to hang around with way and he definitely brought out a softer, more likeable side to Millie but he wasn't really book boyfriend material. I suspect it was all the high pitched laughing that turned me off.
The secondary characters were a little more interesting and I really would have liked to see more of them. A couple were maybe a smidge stereotyped but they played the role they needed to well. I do wish Ali had had a bigger part to play as she was hands down the best thing in this story.
Overall therefore, I did enjoy this and the unique premise certainly held my attention. While I wasn't necessarily a fan of elements of the story it potters along quite nicely and has enough good moments to make up for the niggles I had.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy. This has in no way influenced my review.
Unfortunately however while the premise of this story is wonderful and I completely get what the author was trying to do, there was something about it that just didn't work for me. Don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike it and there are some wonderful moments, but it didn't live up to my admittedly high expectations.
I guess my biggest issue was the world the author created. It's a neat idea to flip societal norms on their head and make being single the norm and relationships the thing to be avoided or shameful of. As a singleton I've definitely experienced a lot of what this highlights, how you can be made to feel odd, how everything is more expensive, the comments and judgement, however this felt a little bit too on the nose. Maybe it's because I don't need these things pointed out to me but it felt overdone and repetitive. It also seemed a little inconsistent at times, how it was fine for friends to live together, eat together, co parent, but not for a romantic couple.
I also wasn't entirely sold on main character Millie or love interest Ben. Millie was a bit too uptight, too much of a control freak and a perfectionist. She has her routines and her plans and she's not moving from them. As this pretty much describes me though I suspect my problem with her is that I found her too relatable.
As for Ben, I did like him in a he'd be fun to hang around with way and he definitely brought out a softer, more likeable side to Millie but he wasn't really book boyfriend material. I suspect it was all the high pitched laughing that turned me off.
The secondary characters were a little more interesting and I really would have liked to see more of them. A couple were maybe a smidge stereotyped but they played the role they needed to well. I do wish Ali had had a bigger part to play as she was hands down the best thing in this story.
Overall therefore, I did enjoy this and the unique premise certainly held my attention. While I wasn't necessarily a fan of elements of the story it potters along quite nicely and has enough good moments to make up for the niggles I had.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy. This has in no way influenced my review.
December 2, 2021
Told in a kind of alternative universe where falling in love and being in a couple is frowned upon, Millie is a high flyer, on track to become chief creative officer at Slide, an online app that encourages single people to meet for dates and sex. She has a great group of friends, a controlling mother who wants her to succeed at work and is good at her job.
Society is set up for single people – children are born using sperm donors and raised in single parent households, convenience meals are for one, tax and rent are cheaper for singletons and anyone in a couple is considered to be some sort of freak. Ruth her manager at work and good friend, is in a new romantic relationship with another woman called Sam and Millie can’t quite get her head around how anyone would fall in love and why anyone would want to be in a couple, seeing only the negatives.
Millie along with new creative Ben, is tasked with creating a marketing campaign for a new drug, Oxytoxin created by the scientists at Slide. Just two tablets of Oxytoxin, stops the glands from releasing the blend of hormones that create the sensation of falling in love. The way the company sees it, Oxytoxin protects you from having your heart broken by preventing you falling in love in the first place. And if you already have a broken heart, it mends it. As part of their research, Ben and Millie speak to prospective users of Oxytoxin who say why they think it would be good for them. And as they spend more time together, Millie starts to question what she has always thought about single life.
I found the premise of The Couple quite thought provoking. My instinct on reading the blurb was that a tablet to stop someone falling in love is a terrible idea – I can’t imagine not being able to fall in love and spend my life in a couple with my partner. But the book makes several convincing arguments why single life is perhaps better – less distractions, not having to take anyone else into consideration, avoiding the heartbreak that can come with being in love. While taking tablets is a pretty extreme way to stop it happening maybe there is something in it?
I read and enjoyed The Shelf last year so was really keen to read The Couple. Not too heavy, but written well addressing lots of issues, The Couple is a fun and enjoyable read that I very much enjoyed.
Society is set up for single people – children are born using sperm donors and raised in single parent households, convenience meals are for one, tax and rent are cheaper for singletons and anyone in a couple is considered to be some sort of freak. Ruth her manager at work and good friend, is in a new romantic relationship with another woman called Sam and Millie can’t quite get her head around how anyone would fall in love and why anyone would want to be in a couple, seeing only the negatives.
Millie along with new creative Ben, is tasked with creating a marketing campaign for a new drug, Oxytoxin created by the scientists at Slide. Just two tablets of Oxytoxin, stops the glands from releasing the blend of hormones that create the sensation of falling in love. The way the company sees it, Oxytoxin protects you from having your heart broken by preventing you falling in love in the first place. And if you already have a broken heart, it mends it. As part of their research, Ben and Millie speak to prospective users of Oxytoxin who say why they think it would be good for them. And as they spend more time together, Millie starts to question what she has always thought about single life.
I found the premise of The Couple quite thought provoking. My instinct on reading the blurb was that a tablet to stop someone falling in love is a terrible idea – I can’t imagine not being able to fall in love and spend my life in a couple with my partner. But the book makes several convincing arguments why single life is perhaps better – less distractions, not having to take anyone else into consideration, avoiding the heartbreak that can come with being in love. While taking tablets is a pretty extreme way to stop it happening maybe there is something in it?
I read and enjoyed The Shelf last year so was really keen to read The Couple. Not too heavy, but written well addressing lots of issues, The Couple is a fun and enjoyable read that I very much enjoyed.
March 31, 2021
Helly Acton you’ve done it again! 👏🏼 Last year I took part in a readalong for The Shelf on audiobook, it was my first ever audiobook and I loved it! So much so that I bought the hardback edition to keep too because I know I’ll want to be re-reading that in the future. Helly’s created another 5 star read for me that is nothing like I’ve read before in her new book The Couple! It is such an original, one of a kind story, nothing like I’ve read before!
I ADORED THIS! In this world, being single is the norm, and if you’re in a couple, you’re looked at as though you’ve made the worst decision of your life. Nobody wants to see their best friend in a couple, where you get charged more for rent, get charge ‘couples climate tax’ and you won’t be able to celebrate St. Bridget’s Day (genius) if you’re in a couple! It’s such a funny way to look at the reverse of some single people’s experiences. Genius! 👌🏼
I couldn’t put this book down, I read it in 2 days, and that’s only because I had to parent and stuff 😂 otherwise I have a feeling it would’ve been an ‘in one sitting’ book! I loved the characters in this, Millie showed such growth in her character which I love to see in a book. And Ben, oh I loved Ben! And he was Welsh so even more perfect! The chemistry between them was so good to read, I loved reading scenes with the two of them. And the fact that they went to one of my all time favourite places, Tenby! I spent every weekend of my childhood in Tenby so I could picture just exactly the steps they would be taking and the views they’d be seeing, and Helly described them perfectly!
I can’t wait for my preorder to arrive!
I ADORED THIS! In this world, being single is the norm, and if you’re in a couple, you’re looked at as though you’ve made the worst decision of your life. Nobody wants to see their best friend in a couple, where you get charged more for rent, get charge ‘couples climate tax’ and you won’t be able to celebrate St. Bridget’s Day (genius) if you’re in a couple! It’s such a funny way to look at the reverse of some single people’s experiences. Genius! 👌🏼
I couldn’t put this book down, I read it in 2 days, and that’s only because I had to parent and stuff 😂 otherwise I have a feeling it would’ve been an ‘in one sitting’ book! I loved the characters in this, Millie showed such growth in her character which I love to see in a book. And Ben, oh I loved Ben! And he was Welsh so even more perfect! The chemistry between them was so good to read, I loved reading scenes with the two of them. And the fact that they went to one of my all time favourite places, Tenby! I spent every weekend of my childhood in Tenby so I could picture just exactly the steps they would be taking and the views they’d be seeing, and Helly described them perfectly!
I can’t wait for my preorder to arrive!
September 17, 2023
DNF, I would come back to it but the plot was not gripping enough
May 20, 2021
3.5 stars
Think of the premise of this as an episode of Black Mirror. Romantic relationships are odd and being single is the norm, and means you get more perks like cheaper rent, restaurant deals for one, and also no relying on another person for your own happiness. Millie works for Slide, an app designed purely for no-strings-attached sex and is hoping to advance her career within the company. She's given an opportunity to advance in the form of coming up with a creative concept for Oxytoxin - a pill to stop you from falling in love. With new employee Ben, Millie aims to come up with justifications for the product and write a killer campaign to land that promotion. Ben might just change Millie's mind about being single too..... Aside from their creative challenges with the new product, we also see the perspectives of her friends and colleagues. Some of these characters are in a relationship and face the struggles of rent increases and judgement from those around them.
This is a look at the different kinds of love a person can experience, and the lengths they would go to limit the restrictions that being in love can bring e.g. not pursuing opportunities and having little time to yourself. We see Millie and Ben interview prospective clients of Oxytoxin all of whom have their different reasons for wanting to take the pill and I found it FASCINATING. At first, I struggled to get my head around the concept that couples are abnormal and single people are the norm within Millie's world. I did love that it turns the experience of being single and being patronised for it on its head, and it was refreshing to read what is essentially a dystopian meets romance novel. However, at times I did feel the concept could've done with a little more development or even some historical context as a prologue. I also felt that some of the characters surrounding Millie were a bit too samey, and didn't add much to the story, and there were moments that the narrative just stagnated for me hence why I've not rated this higher.
In spite of this, I did LOVE Ben's character (hello Welsh romantic lead!) and how he was the complete opposite of Millie. As an avid fan of The Hating Game I am a sucker for an office romance and cliche trope so the pair's interactions by internal office messaging systems, hangman games and work trips had me grinning from ear to ear. In spite of the romantic theming, ultimately this is a story that tells you to defy societal expectations and follow your own heart and path. With questionable ethics and bucketloads of banter, it looks at what it means to fall in love. It hints at being true to yourself, personal growth, and the way our relationships and love for one another can better us as a person. It's a morally questionable, but heartwarming story that is corny, even if a tad predictable in places. Great if you're a fan of romance fiction, not so much if you're looking for more depth in your read.
Huge thanks to Bonnier Books and Zaffre for my gifted copy to promote and review on Instagram!
Think of the premise of this as an episode of Black Mirror. Romantic relationships are odd and being single is the norm, and means you get more perks like cheaper rent, restaurant deals for one, and also no relying on another person for your own happiness. Millie works for Slide, an app designed purely for no-strings-attached sex and is hoping to advance her career within the company. She's given an opportunity to advance in the form of coming up with a creative concept for Oxytoxin - a pill to stop you from falling in love. With new employee Ben, Millie aims to come up with justifications for the product and write a killer campaign to land that promotion. Ben might just change Millie's mind about being single too..... Aside from their creative challenges with the new product, we also see the perspectives of her friends and colleagues. Some of these characters are in a relationship and face the struggles of rent increases and judgement from those around them.
This is a look at the different kinds of love a person can experience, and the lengths they would go to limit the restrictions that being in love can bring e.g. not pursuing opportunities and having little time to yourself. We see Millie and Ben interview prospective clients of Oxytoxin all of whom have their different reasons for wanting to take the pill and I found it FASCINATING. At first, I struggled to get my head around the concept that couples are abnormal and single people are the norm within Millie's world. I did love that it turns the experience of being single and being patronised for it on its head, and it was refreshing to read what is essentially a dystopian meets romance novel. However, at times I did feel the concept could've done with a little more development or even some historical context as a prologue. I also felt that some of the characters surrounding Millie were a bit too samey, and didn't add much to the story, and there were moments that the narrative just stagnated for me hence why I've not rated this higher.
In spite of this, I did LOVE Ben's character (hello Welsh romantic lead!) and how he was the complete opposite of Millie. As an avid fan of The Hating Game I am a sucker for an office romance and cliche trope so the pair's interactions by internal office messaging systems, hangman games and work trips had me grinning from ear to ear. In spite of the romantic theming, ultimately this is a story that tells you to defy societal expectations and follow your own heart and path. With questionable ethics and bucketloads of banter, it looks at what it means to fall in love. It hints at being true to yourself, personal growth, and the way our relationships and love for one another can better us as a person. It's a morally questionable, but heartwarming story that is corny, even if a tad predictable in places. Great if you're a fan of romance fiction, not so much if you're looking for more depth in your read.
Huge thanks to Bonnier Books and Zaffre for my gifted copy to promote and review on Instagram!
February 7, 2022
The Couple gave me major 'Black Mirror' vibes. It is based in an alternative world where being single is the a societal norm compared to being in a relationship. However, I thought this plot sent out a very important message: that the relationship you have within yourself is much more important than the relationship you have with others.
The two main characters, Millie and Ben were extremely likeable. I related a hell of a lot to Millie. She liked routine and she hated change. What a mood. Ben on the other hand was the polar opposite. Change excited him, he loved to travel and most of all, he wanted to be in a couple. I absolutely loved the scenes of Ben and Millie. Watching Millie grow as a person and seeing their fondness of one another blossom was just everything AND the added humour was spot on.
The plot was nothing like I had ever read before and I think that was why I adored this book so much. It was original, it was gripping and it was fun. I really did adore this book and I cannot wait to read some more of Helly Acton's work very soon!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK for a proof of this book in exchange for an honest review!
The two main characters, Millie and Ben were extremely likeable. I related a hell of a lot to Millie. She liked routine and she hated change. What a mood. Ben on the other hand was the polar opposite. Change excited him, he loved to travel and most of all, he wanted to be in a couple. I absolutely loved the scenes of Ben and Millie. Watching Millie grow as a person and seeing their fondness of one another blossom was just everything AND the added humour was spot on.
The plot was nothing like I had ever read before and I think that was why I adored this book so much. It was original, it was gripping and it was fun. I really did adore this book and I cannot wait to read some more of Helly Acton's work very soon!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK for a proof of this book in exchange for an honest review!
December 17, 2022
Dystopian world based on love and couples.
I loved this wonderful novel. From people seeming to have gender neutral relationships (as it does not use labels which I found unique and interesting) to the drastic points of views and discussions throughout. It was interesting to read from both sides and perspectives on basically the Pros of singles and Pros of couples.
Things like ‘double rent’ for being in a couple makes you wonder how would it be double rent if it is two people because if they where single they would have to pay that amount each anyway. And then comparing that to the real world where it is just split.
In this world, the couples are to be ashamed of and the rulers of this universe is the Singles. This novel made me laugh out loud. I loved the evolution of the main character the most. Her views have really changed throughout but it takes you through it step by step helping you understand both sides points of views. I loved this dystopian world it was an enjoyable read.
I loved this wonderful novel. From people seeming to have gender neutral relationships (as it does not use labels which I found unique and interesting) to the drastic points of views and discussions throughout. It was interesting to read from both sides and perspectives on basically the Pros of singles and Pros of couples.
Things like ‘double rent’ for being in a couple makes you wonder how would it be double rent if it is two people because if they where single they would have to pay that amount each anyway. And then comparing that to the real world where it is just split.
In this world, the couples are to be ashamed of and the rulers of this universe is the Singles. This novel made me laugh out loud. I loved the evolution of the main character the most. Her views have really changed throughout but it takes you through it step by step helping you understand both sides points of views. I loved this dystopian world it was an enjoyable read.
May 12, 2021
A pill that stops people from falling in love? SIGN ME THE HELL UP. (for the book, not the pill!)
Helly Acton does it again with yet another cracking story with a fabulous premise. What would life be like in a society where being a couple is NOT THE NORM? Millie is living it, so when she gets the chance to work on a pill that actively STOPS you from falling in love, she's thrilled. Until lovable Ben arrives to work with her and her world is turned upside down.
What a great starting point to explore what it means to fall in love. I bought the hardback of The Shelf and it is front and centre on my own bookshelf now - and I'm firmly a big fan of hers.
If you read this book, beware, you will fall in love with Millie and Ben. It's clever, engrossing and at times very funny. Helly is *such* a talent. One of my top reads this summer!
Will add my fave passage in later - but away from the proof at the moment. :-) x
Helly Acton does it again with yet another cracking story with a fabulous premise. What would life be like in a society where being a couple is NOT THE NORM? Millie is living it, so when she gets the chance to work on a pill that actively STOPS you from falling in love, she's thrilled. Until lovable Ben arrives to work with her and her world is turned upside down.
What a great starting point to explore what it means to fall in love. I bought the hardback of The Shelf and it is front and centre on my own bookshelf now - and I'm firmly a big fan of hers.
If you read this book, beware, you will fall in love with Millie and Ben. It's clever, engrossing and at times very funny. Helly is *such* a talent. One of my top reads this summer!
Will add my fave passage in later - but away from the proof at the moment. :-) x
September 11, 2022
I really enjoyed the premise of this book & some of the thoughts & discussions throughout the story. It's so interesting to think about a world where being single is the norm, and makes you think about the value our society places on romantic relationships.
The characters & writing were quite typical of other books in this genre, it was a smooth & enjoyable read. Millie was kinda annoying, her banter with Ben was funny and well done, but he didn't seem to develop much more as a character. I felt like some of the conversations & character growth at the end was a bit clunky, but I liked that the characters changed & developed.
Overall it's a fun, escapist romance. Some deeper ideas are explored, but the general tone is pretty light. Enjoy it on a wintery evening when you want some cosy entertainment without leaving the house!
The characters & writing were quite typical of other books in this genre, it was a smooth & enjoyable read. Millie was kinda annoying, her banter with Ben was funny and well done, but he didn't seem to develop much more as a character. I felt like some of the conversations & character growth at the end was a bit clunky, but I liked that the characters changed & developed.
Overall it's a fun, escapist romance. Some deeper ideas are explored, but the general tone is pretty light. Enjoy it on a wintery evening when you want some cosy entertainment without leaving the house!
April 29, 2023
I would not recommend this to a friend but it is an OK book to read. I would consider it more dystopian in nature than a romance.
I do not like the concept of referring to people in relationships as in “a couple”, really emphasising being in a couple is bad blah blah. I understand the purpose of writing about it in relation to the overall theme of the book but it’s really just not that appealing to read.
I think June’s character was a bit off, very very clingy to millie. As the best friend there wasn’t much supporting going on throughout the book until the last few chapters which was a bit disappointing to see.
Ben and Millie had a cliche relationship from the get go, due to it being an interesting read I thought the relationship development would be more out there than it was!!!!!
I do not like the concept of referring to people in relationships as in “a couple”, really emphasising being in a couple is bad blah blah. I understand the purpose of writing about it in relation to the overall theme of the book but it’s really just not that appealing to read.
I think June’s character was a bit off, very very clingy to millie. As the best friend there wasn’t much supporting going on throughout the book until the last few chapters which was a bit disappointing to see.
Ben and Millie had a cliche relationship from the get go, due to it being an interesting read I thought the relationship development would be more out there than it was!!!!!
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