Review of One Plus One by Jojo Moyes
When I first picked up One Plus One, I was immediately drawn in by Jojo Moyes’ knack for intertwining humor and heartache in her narratives. Having read several of her works, I knew I was in for an emotional rollercoaster, but nothing prepared me for the depth of connection I would feel with the characters. The quote, “Heartbreak was a luxury too costly for the single parent,” beautifully encapsulates the essence of this poignant story.
At the heart of One Plus One is Jess Thomas, a single mother juggled between two jobs and the overwhelming responsibility of raising her two children, Tanzie and Nicky. Jess’s resilience is nothing short of inspiring; she embodies the struggles and hopes of many single parents trying to carve out a path for their families amid chaos. Tanzie, with her brilliant mathematical mind, and Nicky, battling the harsh realities of bullying, add layers of complexity to the narrative, showcasing how family dynamics can be both a challenge and a source of immense strength.
Moyes’ writing style is as engaging as ever, effortlessly blending humor with heart. The pacing flows smoothly, keeping me engrossed as I navigated Jess’s highs and lows alongside her. There’s a striking balance between the comical moments, often stemming from Jess’s candid observations, and the more serious undertones surrounding her children’s struggles. The dialogues between the characters leap off the page, filled with warmth and authenticity, making them feel like old friends.
One of the most memorable elements of the story is the introduction of Ed Nicholls, a dashing but troubled stranger who crosses paths with Jess and her family. Initially seen as self-absorbed, Ed’s character deepens as he confronts his own crises, opening a space for unexpected love to blossom. This evolution is skillfully crafted, reminding readers that vulnerability can often lead to healing connections.
What particularly resonated with me were the sensitive portrayals of bullying and emotional distress, particularly Nicky’s experiences. Moyes approached these topics with such care that I found myself empathizing with the characters on a profound level. I was often left reflecting on the resilience of the human spirit, especially as I rooted for Jess and her unconventional family unit to find their footing.
I must commend Moyes for her ability to make readers laugh, cry, and cheer—sometimes all within the same chapter. I left the story feeling hopeful, the kind of warmth that lingers long after putting the book down. The characters are a reminder of life’s complexities, each with their own burdens yet collectively finding strength and solace in each other.
For anyone looking for a weekend read that’s romantic yet realistic, emotional but balanced, One Plus One is a delightful journey worth taking. Whether you’re a seasoned Moyes fan or new to her work, this book offers insight into the beautiful messiness of life and love, making it a must-read for anyone interested in heartfelt stories filled with nuance and flair. It’s an exploration of how family can often rise from the most chaotic beginnings—much like Jess and her tribe.
So grab a comfy blanket, a cup of your favorite drink, and settle in for this poignant tale. You’ll find yourself immersed in a world that is both familiar and refreshingly new, and perhaps you’ll walk away with a little more hope, just as I did.