The Rosie Effect

By Graeme Simsion

Rating: 2/5 Stairs

I read (listened to) The Rosie Project a few weeks ago. Wow, did I love it. It was funny and heartfelt. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the sequel.

I wish I hadn’t read (listened to) the sequel.

OK, that’s not entirely true. I did enjoy parts of it. But overall? I wish I hadn’t read it. The things I loved about The Rosie Project – namely Don and Rosie’s relationship – were ruined in this book. Rosie’s character especially.

What worked for me

As always, I enjoyed Don and his unique perspective on things. Partially due to his personality, and partially because he doesn’t want to upset (the now pregnant) Rosie, he finds himself in some humorous situations; The Playground Incident in particular.

Don’s boys night’s out were fun and often insightful. It’s great to see him with his new socialization skills and his friends. He may not have many friends, but he is extremely dedicated to the ones he has.

What wasn’t so great

While initially The Playground Incident was funny, the path to resolution went on way too long. It went from humorous to ridiculous.

I don’t want to give away the ending, but it did feel rushed. The rest of the book went along at a steady pace. But the end just sort of shoved a square peg in a round hole to get to the finish.

Rosie. Let me say it again. Rosie. She was fantastic in the first book. A great partner to help Don grow. Not this time around. She decided on her own it was time to have a baby, without asking Don or thinking things through. There’s more to Rosie, but spoilers! I don’t like to spoil things. Let’s just say that I did not like the direction her character took.

My verdict?

If you haven’t read The Rosie Effect, skip it. Just stick with The Rosie Project. If a third book comes out, I’ll read it. I’m hoping it will restore my love for Rosie. It can’t get any worse, that’s for sure.