Review: The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion

Posted on January 6, 2015 Updated on January 6, 2015

Publication Date: 2014

Genre: Romcom

Length: 415 pages

This is a pretty obvious case of unnecessary sequels.

The Rosie Project was a romcom that hinted, but I’d say by and large failed, at saying something about adult relationships with persons with Asperger’s syndrome. At the very least, it was a largely predictable romance. It ticked all of the “aww” boxes, but wasn’t fantastic and wrapped up its loose ends.

It’s sequel, The Rosie Effect, picks up the two characters a little under a year afterwards, during which time, Don and Rosie are expecting a baby. Hijinks ensue.

The plot in this book was chaotic and often too convenient. Characters from the old book were brought back in, despite it going counter to the implied ending in their previous storyline with little to none of the information needed to bridge the gap. The plot once the characters are assembled is haphazard at best with wildly improbable actions being taken all around. The resolution is, again, all too  convenient.

Largely, I can’t help but be critical of the story because it gloms on to RomCom conventions without any of the relationship building that makes a RomCom a good story. Don Tillman is his usual self, but his entire approach to their newest dilemma (the impending birth of his child) isn’t really what I would expect of his curiosity. It was just disappointing.

I received an eARC of The Rosie Effect for free in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.

Rating **

Amazon Link:

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