A well meaning boss, a matchmaking agency and an assignment to write about the dating scene in London - what could go wrong?

Third in the Ever After Agency series, THE ONE THAT I WANT by Sandy Barker is a closed door romance full of cute moments, funny quips and lots of endearing supporting characters. It was heartwarming and an interesting premise but fell short of 5 stars

This one felt slower than the other Ever After Agency books and I often felt confused by the huge cast of characters. I really enjoyed the date descriptions and seeing Ewan and Greta's relationship blossom.

Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC! Opinions are my own

4,25 💫 | A main character working on a fashion magazine. An assignment to write about the dating scene in London. A matchmaking agency. A well meaning boss making her going on dates but secretly wanting her to find love. What could possibly go wrong?

This book was my first contact with the Ever After Agency series and what a great way to be introduced to this universe! I have to say, the blurb about this book doesn't make it justice: it is much better than what was promised. I will not get into the story or the plot in this review, since I believe that not knowing much about the book made my experience better.

This book is perfect for any girl that grew up watching 2000s romcoms - specially The Devil Wears Prada - and reading chicklit. I am not in my thirties nor in my dream job but I found so relatable that even being accomplished and living her dream life Greta realized that what she wanted the most was to fall in love. I know this topic is very often present in women's fiction, but in this book, Sandy Barker managed to not only make it super fun, but bring a new light into it.

I adored the way the romance grew from a friendship - this made the story lighter and funny. The main character is captivating and supporting characters were super fun. Also, I need to mention this is a closed door book, so bonus points for it!

I can't wait to read the previous Ever After Agency books - specially Poppy's, since she played such a crucial role in The One That I Want.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the access to this ARC!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and all the opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Another cracker continuing the Ever After Agency series by Sandy Barker.
Is it better to find love the organic way, or do we all need a helping hand sometimes?
The One That I Want brings us back to the Ever After Agency with another client for Poppy, one of our wonderful matchmakers, to concentrate on.
Greta is the editor of a new online magazine. She focuses on her work but finds it challenging to add relationships to the mix.
Her boss, Anjali, decides to intervene by employing the services of her friend's agency to help her employee with things through an elaborate ruse of a series of articles about dating.
There are some funny dates, a whole heap of confusion and plenty of 'oooh!' moments.
On paper, Greta is a successful woman with a great job, a supportive family, and good friends. However, as we find out, things aren't always as straightforward as they seem. She doubts herself so much. I just wanted to take her to one side and tell her to believe in her instincts!
Her best friend, Tiggy, was brilliant. Straightforward, loud and hilarious. We all need a Tiggy in our lives!
It's the kind of story I have come to expect from Sandy, with a host of challenges that Poppy faces when trying to match her client while fulfilling her brief.
Since this is book 3 in the series, it was good to revisit a few characters to see how they were getting on, including Poppy and her relationship, but it is easily read as a stand-alone, too. You'll want to return and get the other two after because it's such fun!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.

⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 0/5 (closed door)

With a unique concept and an accomplished, independent main character, this book caught my eye. I <i>really</i> wanted to love this book, but it wasn’t my cup of tea. You’d enjoy this if you like closed door romance with more of a focus on the main character than about the actual love interest.

Greta is an accomplished woman who has everything she wants, except for her own family (no husband or kids). Her well intentioned boss and friend secretly sets her up with a matchmaking agency under the guise of a new dating column at Greta’s online magazine. It’s messy, there’s a lot of dates, but the perfect person is closer than she thinks.

Tropes:
* Strangers to friends to lovers
* Closed door romance

There were some cute moments and funny quips; there were definitely good elements! But let me explain why I can’t give it 4 or 5 stars:

The pacing could’ve been quicker, cutting out a lot of the beginning and just getting to the dates and the fun would’ve held my attention better as well as maybe cutting Poppy’s POV. Maybe I wasn’t as interested because I didn’t read the other two in the series, but I felt her POV didn’t add to the story to the point where I wanted to skip those portions.

So much of the beginning is set up and Greta being overly worried about e v e r y t h i n g.

Tiggy was a fun side character, but I felt bad that their friendship seemed sort of one sided with Tiggy always being there to support Greta. Even at the drop of a hat, early in the morning, to show up and immediately go back home. I almost expected there to be a storyline of the friend being upset.

I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

As other reviewers mentioned, I didn't realize this was a line up in a series. I liked that Greta was an editor and that she had some depth.

I didn’t realize this was part of a series, though I really appreciate the arc! The book was easy to read and written well!

I loved this book! It's well-written, enjoyable, and a great read. Sandy Barker did a great job of writing in a way that captured my attention, and made me not want to put it down until I was finished! I would highly recommend it!

This is not really a review because I didn't finish it. Other readers may find it interesting, and understandably so. Because I enjoyed reading the first book in the series. I didn't read the second book, and this one didn't work for me.

Reasons:

I didn't realize it was part of a series. Poppy and Tristan (from the first book) are here. And the story is told from Poppy's point of view as well. While I liked Poppy and Tristan in the first book, I didn't feel like reading the story from Poppy's pov again.

In the first book, Poppy was looking for a match for Tristan (as a professional) and here, again, she's been ‘assigned’ to secretly find a match for Greta. This thing instantly put me off. It was giving a very similar vibe, and I didn't want to go on the same ride again.

Maybe it's my fault. I didn't read the blurb carefully and just focused on the author's name.

I am writing it here, so that you know. Not posting my review anywhere else.
Thank you for the copy. Sorry, it wasn't for me.

The One That I Want Is book three in the Ever-after series by Sandy Baker. I haven't read the first two installments in this series but can happily say that this book can be read just fine as a stand alone even though it features characters that have obviously appeared in previous books.

I loved Greta! Her relationship with Tiggy had me reminiscing about my own best friend, and the banter with Ewan was brilliant!
Breakfast tea with a shot of espresso? Definitely cause for concern, I do agree!

The story flowed well and I really liked the idea of the dating articles and the setting of Nouveau and the world of magazine publishing.
However, (and I expect It could be because I haven't bonded with the characters from reading the previous installments) the chapters from Poppy's perspective just didn't do much for me.

A whitty, laugh-out-loud Romantic comedy, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

Thank you to the publisher for allowing me access to an advance copy of this novel through Netgalley.

The One That I Want is the third book in the Ever After Agency book series and even though I somehow managed to miss the second book (I will be going back to read it!) I’ve absolutely loved this book and series.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I really love books that have the original characters from a first book, but how the later books focus on new characters while still having moment of the old characters. I love finding out how their story is progressing too.

This books focuses on Greta, whose boss wants her to find her perfect match. With the help of Poppy and the ever after agency, they come up with a plan to ‘help’ Greta without her realising their true goal. I love the focus on the real life struggles of dating these days and how Greta takes it on without (many) complaints.

Overall this is a really good third book to a series and sometimes that can be the tricky book! solicitors definitely worth a read.

Thank you Netgalley, Sandy Barker and Boldwood Books for this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

**NetGalley Book Review: *The One That I Want* by Sandy Barker**

Rating: 5/5🌟

Sandy Barker’s *The One That I Want* is a delightful and laugh-out-loud addition to her romantic comedy series. This novel is a perfect blend of humor, romance, and the charming chaos that ensues when life doesn't go exactly as planned.

The story revolves around Greta Davies, a successful features editor at a women’s magazine who seems to have it all—except for a fulfilling love life. Greta is a relatable and endearing protagonist, whose work-obsessed nature and stubbornness lead to a series of hilarious and often disastrous dating adventures.

Barker’s writing shines with wit and warmth, capturing Greta’s journey with a perfect balance of comedy and heartfelt moments. The concept of a dating column in the city is a brilliant setup that allows for a variety of humorous scenarios and character interactions. Each date Greta goes on is a comedic gem, filled with awkward moments and unexpected twists.

One of the standout elements of *The One That I Want* is the friendship and support network around Greta. Her boss and friend, who secretly enlists the help of the Ever After Agency, adds a layer of intrigue and sweetness to the story. The secondary characters are well-developed and add depth to the narrative, making Greta’s world feel vibrant and authentic.

The romantic subplot is both charming and satisfying. As Greta navigates her way through a series of less-than-perfect dates, the realization that the perfect man has been right in front of her all along unfolds naturally and beautifully. The chemistry between Greta and her true match is palpable, and their journey from friendship to romance is filled with tender and swoon-worthy moments.

Barker draws inspiration from romantic classics like *How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days*, *Thirteen Going on Thirty*, and *Sex and the City*, and she manages to infuse her own unique touch into the story. The references to these beloved films and series add a nostalgic and fun element, enhancing the overall reading experience.

*The One That I Want* is not just a romantic comedy; it’s a story about self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of being open to life’s unexpected possibilities. Greta’s character growth throughout the novel is both realistic and inspiring, making her someone readers will root for from beginning to end.

Overall, *The One That I Want* is a must-read for fans of romantic comedies. Sandy Barker has crafted a story that is as heartwarming as it is hilarious, with characters that feel like old friends and a plot that keeps you eagerly turning the pages. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a good laugh and a sweet, satisfying love story.

Rating: 5/5🌟

#TheOneThatIWant #SandyBarker #NetGalley #BookReview #RomanticComedy #MustRead

This is an enjoyable story with endearing characters and an interesting premise. As one would expect from SB - it's well-written and executed.
However, I find it difficult to cope with a huge cast of characters and this is one of those books with one.

Heartwarming and cute. But overall, entirely forgettable.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

The One That I Want by Sandy Barker
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 23 July 2024

Sandy Barker's "The One That I Want" is a charming addition to the Ever After Agency series, proving once again that Barker has a knack for crafting engaging romantic comedies. This third instalment maintains the high quality of its predecessors while introducing fresh characters and scenarios.

The story centres around Greta Davies, a successful magazine features editor whose love life leaves much to be desired. Barker's portrayal of Greta is immediately endearing, making her relatable and easy to root for. The author's choice to set the story in the magazine industry provides an interesting backdrop that adds depth to the narrative.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its clever concept of turning Greta's dating mishaps into a magazine column. This innovative approach not only drives the plot forward but also offers insightful commentary on the challenges of modern dating. The resulting scenarios are a perfect mix of heartwarming and hilarious, with Greta's disastrous dates and her friendship with Tiggy providing many laugh-out-loud moments.

Barker skilfully balances the romantic elements with humour, creating a story that is both sweet and entertaining. The gradual realisation that the perfect man might have been there all along adds a layer of anticipation that keeps readers engaged until the very end.

While part of a series, "The One That I Want" stands well on its own, though fans will appreciate the appearances of familiar characters from previous books. The introduction of new characters alongside the established ones keeps the series fresh and exciting.

Drawing inspiration from classic romantic comedies like "How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days" and "Sex and the City," Barker's novel feels both familiar and fresh. It captures the essence of what makes these stories beloved while adding her own unique twist.

In conclusion, "The One That I Want" is a delightful, heartwarming read that offers the perfect escape for fans of romantic comedies. Its blend of humour, romance, and relatable characters makes it a must-read for anyone looking for a lighthearted yet insightful take on love and dating in the modern world. Sandy Barker continues to prove herself as a standout author in the genre with this charming addition to the Ever After Agency series.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and the author, Sandy Barker, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.

Loved this one! Great and fun read. Highly recommend.
Many thanks to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for my ARC.

Sandy Barker’s books are always a treat to look forward to, and this latest offering from an author who knows her game was no exception. There is the writer’s tell-tale humour, some fabulous one liners, great writing and of course romance. In Greta we have an interesting and very likeable central character, a successful features writer on a women’s magazine who has yet to find that one true love. What better way to find it than through the Ever After Agency as well as a great idea for a new column in the magazine? I thoroughly enjoyed the whole romp through the intricacies and nuances of modern dating. Great research from Barker on dating, dating agencies and feature writing. All wrapped up in a novel that zips along and ends, as we always hope it will in a fabulous HEA. 5 stars from me!

"The One That I Want" by Sandy Barker is a delightful romantic comedy that hits all the right notes. Greta Davies, a successful magazine editor, navigates disastrous dates while her friend secretly intervenes with the Ever After Agency. Barker’s witty storytelling and charming characters, inspired by rom-com classics, unfold with humor and heart. As Greta searches for love in the city, the perfect match may be closer than she realizes. Full of laughs and heartfelt moments, this novel is a must-read for fans of feel-good romance. Barker delivers a fun and uplifting story that will leave readers smiling from ear to ear.

This sounded like something right up my alley, and the groundwork was there for a great story. But I just didn't feel the spark or chemistry between the main two and I also had a hard time with how anxiety ridden Greta became over Every. Single. Decision. Some of the bad dates were funny and I liked a lot about the plot here but for some reason this one didn't quite work for me.

I wanted to love this book because of its description and because the characters are so great. However, it felt slow moving (I think we could have cut to the chase much earlier) and not that funny or even romantic. I was also missing real spark/energy/wit/attraction between Greta and her love interest/s.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

What a lovable book!!! I loved the main AND side characters! Greta is such a relatable person, I really didn’t thought I’d have this much fun. I loved how the book really showed the reality of dating apps, to be honest what made me laugh the most were her awful dates.

I’d highly recommend this book and I think a lot of people will love it!!