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

I finished this book extremely quickly - I quite liked the storyline and was pleasantly surprised by the character development that brought depth to the story as it progressed.

The book follows magazine editor Greta Davies on her dating journey, as her boss sets her an assignment to date folks and write about her experiences - guided by an undercover matchmaker. I love how the story unfolds, and Greta begins to open her heart to love. And I won’t spoil it, but the story’s climax is simply delightful.

While the story was decently thought through, I felt that at times the execution was a little lacking. The writing quality felt inconsistent and kept pulling me out of the world it created.

Overall it’s genuinely a decent read and delivers a heartwarming romcom - I still did after all, devour it till my eyes hurt.

This is the third book in the Ever After Agency series, a series I have loved and devoured and this book does not disappoint.

It’s so refreshing to read a series where every book is a five star read. I love how there is the original characters from the first book in the series but every book introduces new characters too as the main subjects for Poppys case.

I immediately fell in love with Greta in this book and her situation. She is a magazine editor which is a job that makes such an interesting read. The way it is written is such a clever concept and also highlights today’s struggles in the dating world. It was such a heartwarming romance but also hilarious in parts with Gretas disastrous dates and her friendship with Tiggy.

Sandys writing is written so beautifully again and flows so well. This was such another enjoyable read. You need to read this series!

I enjoyed this book, with its unique storyline. Our heroine is just a normal woman who’s been good enough at her job to be promoted to a high level position, but has still kept her normalcy. Her friend, whilst featured a lot, is very much a background character, which is a shame as she seems like a cool, badass character that I would’ve liked to have seen more of. The story is written from dual perspectives of our heroine and her matchmaker, but sadly I don’t think that really works; dual perspectives only tend to work when it’s from a couple for example, and not 2 characters with only a slight overlap. Due to this, I found myself skipping Poppy’s parts unless Greta was in them, as I found them throwing the flow of the story. Apart from that, it is a good book, with only some slight twists and turns, but nothing too surprising, and a guaranteed HEA

I love this author and this books was great! I really enjoyed the tropes, as well as the character development! Her characters are so realistic and lovable, and I didn’t want to put it down!

Another fabulous story by Sandy Barker! Greta Davies has had some terrible dates, and although I was laughing and enjoying them as a reader, Greta was not! I loved the concept of turning her horrible dating life into a magazine column. It felt very Sex in the City, though with a twist, because her friend has enlisted the Ever After Agency to help her find the right guy. Enter Ewan. I loved these two together (super relatable and lovable characters). I was rooting for both of them the whole time. There are some hilarious moments, as only Sandy Barker can write them, and some sweet moments too. I highly recommend this story!

The One That I Want intrigued me when I read the blurb and I'm sure it has a lot of potential.

Unfortunately, I didn't like the writing one bit. Parts of it sounded a little childish and like the book was trying too hard to put the comedy part in romcom.

I'm really sorry to say that I just couldn't enjoy it.

Humorous and really funny! Great characters. The story was entertaining. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Greta's boss and friend secretly enlist the help of Ever After Agency to find her perfect partner. Lots of adorable and LOL moments. Cute cast of characters. A fun fast-moving book.

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.

I laughed so hard out loud at this book! I fell in love with the main characters! Such a fun book! I loved the story, and the plot of this one. Highly recommend.

This was a great romance book. I enjoyed it so much. I liked everything about it. Don’t skip this one.

Adorable and fast moving romcom - secrets and miscommunication abound, while true friendship and ultimately love shows through - after quite the entertaining rollercoaster. Enough feels to keep things going without huge drama, a fun read!

Title: The One That I Want by Sandy Barker

Release Date: July, 23rd, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

Sandy Barker's The One That I Want is a delightful, heartwarming story that blends humour, romance, and the trials of modern dating into a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Greta Davies, a successful features editor at a women’s magazine, seems to have it all—except a thriving love life. Her boss and friend, determined to help Greta find happiness, secretly enlists the help of the Ever After Agency. This leads to a brilliant idea: a new column focused on dating in the city.

However, Greta's journey through a series of disastrous dates leaves her disheartened. Unbeknownst to her, the perfect man has been right under her nose the entire time. The question is, will she realise it before it’s too late?

What I Liked:

* Engaging Protagonist: Greta Davies is a relatable and likeable character whose journey through the ups and downs of dating is both amusing and endearing. Her work-driven nature and stubbornness add depth to her character.

* Humour: The book had laugh-out-loud moments, particularly during Greta's disastrous dates. The witty dialogue and comedic situations make for a light-hearted and enjoyable read.

* Clever Concept: The idea of turning Greta's dating misadventures into a magazine column is both innovative and entertaining. It adds a unique twist to the typical romantic comedy plot.

* Heartwarming Romance: The slow realisation of the perfect man being Ewan, a long-time friend is a heartwarming twist. The development of their relationship is sweet and satisfying, with plenty of "aww" moments.

* Strong Supporting Characters: Greta's boss and other supporting characters are well-developed and add richness to the story. Their interactions with Greta are both supportive and humorous, contributing to the overall charm of the book.

* Modern Dating Challenges: The book realistically portrays the challenges and awkwardness of modern dating, making it highly relatable for readers who have navigated the dating scene.


The One That I Want by Sandy Barker is a delightful, cute read that offers a perfect blend of humour, romance, and heartfelt moments. It's a must-read for anyone looking for a lighthearted and charming romantic comedy that also provides insightful commentary on the trials of dating in the modern world.

Thank you to The Publisher Boldwood Books ,The Author Sandy Barker & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.