One by One by Ruth Ware

*** My Review ***

Ruth Ware’s “One by One” is a gripping thriller that takes place in the beautiful yet treacherous setting of a luxurious ski resort in the French Alps. The story follows a group of tech entrepreneurs who have gathered for a corporate retreat. They are quickly hit by a snowstorm, and as they become trapped in the resort, tensions rise and secrets are revealed. When members of the group start turning up dead, it becomes clear that someone is picking them off one by one.

Imagine being stranded in a desolate, snow-covered landscape, where the biting cold creeps into your bones and the howling wind is your only companion. That’s the kind of enveloping atmosphere that permeates every page of this novel. From start to finish, I was completely immersed in the eerie and isolated world of the characters.

The mystery and suspense were so well-crafted that I found myself constantly questioning everyone’s motives. Every time I thought I had it all figured out, a new twist would arise, keeping me on the edge of my seat until the very end.

What I loved most about this novel were the dual perspectives. Through the eyes of both Liz and Erin, we’re given a unique insight into the secrets and lies that lurk beneath the surface. These were truly intriguing characters that I couldn’t get enough of.

While the short chapters and shifting perspectives kept the story moving at a brisk pace, I did feel that there were times when the narrative became repetitive and slightly bogged down. However, this was a minor quibble in an otherwise superbly crafted novel that kept me guessing until the very end.

As the group becomes stranded in the resort, the sense of isolation and hopelessness becomes even more palpable. The fear and paranoia that sets in as they realize they are being hunted is intense, and the tension never lets up. The book also explores themes of power dynamics, loyalty, and trust, which adds an extra layer of depth to the story.

The setting of the ski resort is a unique and interesting location that adds to the tension and claustrophobia of the story. The beautiful snow-covered mountains and the luxurious chalet contrast starkly with the danger and violence that is taking place. The weather is also an important factor in the story, as the snowstorm makes it impossible for the group to leave the resort and adds an extra level of danger to their situation.

The characters in “One by One” are a diverse group of tech entrepreneurs who are used to being in control. They are arrogant and entitled, and it is easy to understand why someone might want to harm them. Each character has their own unique personality and motivations, and the tension between them is palpable. The two main characters, Erin and Liz, are the most interesting of the group. Erin is a sympathetic character who is forced to work for the group and finds herself caught up in the violence. Liz, on the other hand, is a former employee of the company who has come to the retreat to confront the CEO. Her backstory is slowly revealed throughout the book, and she is a complex and intriguing character.

One of the strengths of “One by One” is the writing. Ruth Ware has a talent for creating suspense and tension, and the short chapters keep the reader engaged. The writing is engaging and fast-paced, and the story never drags. While the mystery aspect of the book may be predictable at times, Ruth Ware’s skillful pacing and use of multiple narrators keeps the reader engaged. The short chapters alternate between the perspectives of Erin and Liz, as well as occasional interludes from a third, unknown voice. This structure adds to the sense of foreboding and intensifies the mystery, as readers are left guessing who the killer might be.

Another strength of “One by One” is the character development, particularly of the two main characters. Erin, the chalet girl who is forced to wait on the group, is a relatable and likable character. She is clearly out of her element among the tech executives, and her perspective offers a fresh contrast to their arrogance and privilege. Liz, the former employee who has come to the retreat with a vendetta against the company’s CEO, is also a fascinating character with a compelling backstory. The development of these two characters adds an emotional depth to the story that helps to balance out the tension and violence.

The book’s exploration of power dynamics and the lengths people will go to maintain their position of authority add a depth to the whole story. The group of tech entrepreneurs is used to being in control, and their arrogance and entitlement make them both sympathetic and unlikable. Their behavior towards Erin, in particular, highlights their privilege and the way they take her for granted. The book also examines the way people can use fear and intimidation to maintain their power, and how easily those dynamics can turn violent.

However, there are some weaknesses to the book. The plot can be predictable at times, and the overall arc of the story is fairly straightforward. Additionally, some of the secondary characters feel underdeveloped and their motivations are not always clear. While the tension between the characters is well-done, the characters themselves can be frustrating and unlikable at times.

Furthermore, the secondary characters can feel underdeveloped and their motivations are not always clear. While the tension between the characters is well-done, the characters themselves can be frustrating and unlikable at times. Additionally, some readers may find the predictability of the mystery aspect of the book to be a drawback, although the skillful pacing and use of multiple narrators helps to mitigate this issue.

Overall, “One by One” is a thrilling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The beautiful yet dangerous setting of the ski resort adds an extra level of tension to the story, and the themes of power dynamics and loyalty add an extra layer of depth. The writing is engaging and the characters are well-developed, even if they can be frustrating at times. While the plot can be predictable, the story is still a fast-paced and enjoyable read. If you are a fan of suspenseful thrillers, “One by One” is definitely worth checking out.