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One I Knew
An opposites attract lesbian romance about winning the beautiful “straight” girl you never stood a chance with back in high school.
Hollywood darling Mallory St. Cloud has it An Emmy, Grammy, and now an Oscar. She’s forty, feted, fabulous…and empty. On a whim, she leaves LA for Maplecrest, Pennsylvania, the hometown she fled when she was eighteen.
Dependable Andi Grainger, owner of Maplecrest’s successful handy business Chicks with Tool Belts, is startled to see her famous former best friend back in town.
Soon, it’s as if their friendship never ended. Mallory discovers the connection she’s been missing in her shallow social circle. But Andi has to deal with the fact her straight, gorgeous, unattainable friend, the subject of Andi’s hopeless teenage crush, is right in front of her again.
Except…Mallory’s not quite so straight anymore. And there’s a whole lot of pain beneath the surface they’ve been tiptoeing around. Is it time to be honest with each other at long last?
Hollywood darling Mallory St. Cloud has it An Emmy, Grammy, and now an Oscar. She’s forty, feted, fabulous…and empty. On a whim, she leaves LA for Maplecrest, Pennsylvania, the hometown she fled when she was eighteen.
Dependable Andi Grainger, owner of Maplecrest’s successful handy business Chicks with Tool Belts, is startled to see her famous former best friend back in town.
Soon, it’s as if their friendship never ended. Mallory discovers the connection she’s been missing in her shallow social circle. But Andi has to deal with the fact her straight, gorgeous, unattainable friend, the subject of Andi’s hopeless teenage crush, is right in front of her again.
Except…Mallory’s not quite so straight anymore. And there’s a whole lot of pain beneath the surface they’ve been tiptoeing around. Is it time to be honest with each other at long last?
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2025
302 people are currently reading
618 people want to read
About the author
Rita Potter
19 books139 followersRita Potter has spent most of her life trying to figure out what makes people tick. To that end, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and an MA in Sociology. Her favorite pastime is crawling around inside peoples’ brains. Her loved ones are grateful that she now has characters whose minds she can explore, so maybe she’ll stay out of theirs.
Rita’s writing reflects her belief that in some way we are all damaged and must conquer our demons in order to create a fulfilling life. Being an eternal optimist, she maintains that the human spirit is remarkably resilient and can overcome even the most challenging obstacles. That optimism is the wellspring of her life goal- to provide encouragement and support to help people thrive.
In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors. She is especially drawn to the water, which is ironic since she lives in the middle of a corn field. Her first love has always been reading, which has spurred her writing. She rides a Harley Davidson and has an unnatural obsession with fantasy football. More than anything she detests small talk, but can ramble on for hours given a topic that interests her.
She lives in a small town in Illinois with her wife, Terra, and their cat, Chumley, who actually runs the household.
Rita is a member of American Mensa and the Golden Crown Literary Society. She is currently a student of the GCLS Writing Academy 2021.
Rita’s writing reflects her belief that in some way we are all damaged and must conquer our demons in order to create a fulfilling life. Being an eternal optimist, she maintains that the human spirit is remarkably resilient and can overcome even the most challenging obstacles. That optimism is the wellspring of her life goal- to provide encouragement and support to help people thrive.
In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors. She is especially drawn to the water, which is ironic since she lives in the middle of a corn field. Her first love has always been reading, which has spurred her writing. She rides a Harley Davidson and has an unnatural obsession with fantasy football. More than anything she detests small talk, but can ramble on for hours given a topic that interests her.
She lives in a small town in Illinois with her wife, Terra, and their cat, Chumley, who actually runs the household.
Rita is a member of American Mensa and the Golden Crown Literary Society. She is currently a student of the GCLS Writing Academy 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
March 9, 2025
This was my first book by Rita Potter and it didn't disappoint. I'm always a sucker for a celebrity romance, so it will come as no surprise I liked this one. The MCs had such a deep connection but the one thing that felt missing was steam. Also, it's definitely a slow burn so be ready for that.
February 26, 2025
Rita Potter supremacy.
May 26, 2025
4 stars - this book had me invested. I really liked both the characters and I was rooting for them the whole time, especially since there was a huge issue that needed to be overcome. What’s interesting is it’s not the best book I’ve ever read, but the story had me in a chokehold, wondering how everything was going to be resolved. I really felt the love between the MC’s, but the chemistry was oddly lacking however, since everything was fade to black, it wasn’t a huge issue.
February 9, 2025
First, I've NEVER been disappointed in a Rita Potter book! Never! Certainly not this one! She had me right from the start! I love Mallory and Andi! And Andi's older sister CeCe steals every scene she's in. Plus, Kat Jackson makes a cameo!
This book is a FAVORITE!! A beautiful second chance (kind of), opposites attract, slow burn, celebrity goes home love story!! I love this book! More than 5 stars!!
This book is a FAVORITE!! A beautiful second chance (kind of), opposites attract, slow burn, celebrity goes home love story!! I love this book! More than 5 stars!!
March 11, 2025
3.5 Stars
One I Knew is a friends to lovers, Hollywood, slow burn romance novel by Rita Potter.
The story hit all the marks for a standard romance novel. The plot, characters, setting, conflict and so on were set plainly. For a story to be memorable it has to set itself apart from others by having something different to offer. I would count the family, community and relationships among the main and side characters as wholesome. Also having a character with Down’s Syndrome who is assertive and cheeky added a layer of positivity to the story.
However, my exasperation stems from the fact that the author literally edged me throughout the whole book. Personally, I wouldn’t call this book a slow burn. I’d probably call it more turning the heat on to the first stages of gentle simmer. And that is about where it ends. The stages BEFORE A GENTLE SIMMER. It felt anticlimactic, the angst was very minimal which lands this book on a stock romance level.
One I Knew is a safe, low angst, G rated sapphic romance novel. Perfect if you’re looking for an easy read.
One I Knew is a friends to lovers, Hollywood, slow burn romance novel by Rita Potter.
The story hit all the marks for a standard romance novel. The plot, characters, setting, conflict and so on were set plainly. For a story to be memorable it has to set itself apart from others by having something different to offer. I would count the family, community and relationships among the main and side characters as wholesome. Also having a character with Down’s Syndrome who is assertive and cheeky added a layer of positivity to the story.
However, my exasperation stems from the fact that the author literally edged me throughout the whole book. Personally, I wouldn’t call this book a slow burn. I’d probably call it more turning the heat on to the first stages of gentle simmer. And that is about where it ends. The stages BEFORE A GENTLE SIMMER. It felt anticlimactic, the angst was very minimal which lands this book on a stock romance level.
One I Knew is a safe, low angst, G rated sapphic romance novel. Perfect if you’re looking for an easy read.
April 26, 2025
3⭐️ Overall this was a bit of a disappointment. For me the relationship between the MCs lacked chemistry and the suppressed communication between the two was frustrating. The entire concept of pining after your teenage crush for 20+ years is a bit cringy. It perhaps would have been better if the attraction had just been rekindled, with Andi actually having somewhat moved on in the interim! Also all the wallowing - too much wallowing! However, obviously from my rating it was not all bad. The relationships between the MCs and their friends / family were lovely, and the connection (even though not flaming) between Andi and Mallory wholesome. It was a sweet enough story that certainly helped me get through a serious book hangover, which I am thankful for!
November 18, 2025
I struggled with this one, a lot. I can definitely see the appeal for the story line, but I believe that there was a LOT of character flaws.
Let’s start with Mallory, a famous actress who had a hard childhood with an abusive father. She made a lot of self-deprecating comments and had some low thoughts about herself. It did feel a bit “woe is me” at times instead of taking charge of her life.
Andi was a definite follower. She did anything that pleased everyone in her life, but never putting her feelings first.
I didn’t feel the click between the two characters and they just didn’t feel right. There was no spark, and for people who had been friends for so long and knew each other for so long, they were extremely awkward together.
There was so much back and forth between the two MCs, and although they communicated a lot, there was a very clear lack of communication for all important topics. What made me give this book a 2 star rating was Alyson. For one, it was pretty easy to guess that Andi was Alyson. Looking at that whole situation, I personally think that that is another level of betrayal and wouldn’t be something I could forgive.
After the two MCs spoke about this situation, suddenly things were fine and 6 months later Mallory was singing her song to announce her love for Andi. I felt this gave the book a big blank space where there should have been more conversations that brought them to that point.
It took me a long time to finish this book because I just simply didn’t want to keep reading, and that always tells my rating will be lower.
Let’s start with Mallory, a famous actress who had a hard childhood with an abusive father. She made a lot of self-deprecating comments and had some low thoughts about herself. It did feel a bit “woe is me” at times instead of taking charge of her life.
Andi was a definite follower. She did anything that pleased everyone in her life, but never putting her feelings first.
I didn’t feel the click between the two characters and they just didn’t feel right. There was no spark, and for people who had been friends for so long and knew each other for so long, they were extremely awkward together.
There was so much back and forth between the two MCs, and although they communicated a lot, there was a very clear lack of communication for all important topics. What made me give this book a 2 star rating was Alyson. For one, it was pretty easy to guess that Andi was Alyson. Looking at that whole situation, I personally think that that is another level of betrayal and wouldn’t be something I could forgive.
After the two MCs spoke about this situation, suddenly things were fine and 6 months later Mallory was singing her song to announce her love for Andi. I felt this gave the book a big blank space where there should have been more conversations that brought them to that point.
It took me a long time to finish this book because I just simply didn’t want to keep reading, and that always tells my rating will be lower.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
Okay. Good story but totally ruined, and I mean totally, by diva behaviour and the writer assuming that was OK, even though out of character for any normal human being. Poor writing. But as you can read, the book took me in and I cared the author behaved so badly.
July 6, 2025
I really liked how the relationship between Andy and Mallory was written when then reconnect. It felt like coming home and sliding under a security blanket that felt warm. Andy is so nice, thoughtful and selfless even if she makes huge mistakes sometimes that add angst to the story. I really felt for her and wished she lived her life more and half moved on for the twenty years they spent not talking. Cece’s character, with a Down syndrome was really well written and she just stole my heart. It was also very fun to have Kat Jackson make an appearance. Now I had one major issue in the end. After a big fight, what is the most interesting (to me) is the processing the characters have to go through that put them on the same path again. Here all happens fading in black and I was so frustrated. I wanted two more chapters to fill the gap. Be also aware that there is no spice so feral chemistry is not in the center, but emotional intimacy is. Personally I don’t mind but some readers might. Overall I enjoyed this heartfelt story.
March 14, 2025
Lot's of angst, but not much drama. Enjoyable read, lovable mains, and great side characters.
February 26, 2025
Loved it!
I am a big fan of Rita Potter's books. She writes such great characters that I never want to put the book down once I start it. This one really hit close to home for me with the virtual relationship meaning so much to Mallory. I appreciated that storyline.
I am a big fan of Rita Potter's books. She writes such great characters that I never want to put the book down once I start it. This one really hit close to home for me with the virtual relationship meaning so much to Mallory. I appreciated that storyline.
February 8, 2025
I enjoyed this book though I found part of it difficult to believe. I'll discuss my suspension of disbelief problem with the spoiler tags below.
In any event, I did enjoy the novel but as noted above, I had some issues with the last third of the novel. The writing was excellent, the dialog fun, witty, and captured my interest, and the scenes were set up with great care and allowed me to experience the setting vicariously.
In any event, I did enjoy the novel but as noted above, I had some issues with the last third of the novel. The writing was excellent, the dialog fun, witty, and captured my interest, and the scenes were set up with great care and allowed me to experience the setting vicariously.
March 8, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
CeCe is one of my favourite side characters ever!
CeCe is one of my favourite side characters ever!
February 9, 2025
So beautiful story
A beautiful story with up and down moments, real feelings and strong relationships. Plenty of emotions and pure friendships. Very good book
A beautiful story with up and down moments, real feelings and strong relationships. Plenty of emotions and pure friendships. Very good book
May 25, 2025
Just a great read. Great Characters. Well written story.
May 30, 2025
3.5 stars. silliest book I ever did read 😅
May 14, 2025
Enjoyed the start, pacing slipped a bit for me just after half way. I think this was down to a plot twist, that although different from one I suspected, didn’t work so well for me. I realise the ensuing dilemma should have added tension, for me it didn’t. I think because part of the past actions had been a lie not omission. (Vague to avoid giving anything away). I have to say, in fairness to the author, one main viewed things the same way as me, which should have helped, but didn't cos I by this point had lost my connection to the mains.
I found myself frustrated by the plot decision and never really got past that.
I’ve found in her previous books that Rita Potter writes people well. I loved Mallory and Andi for most of the book but something just was missing. I think it was the whole, “oh I can’t say anything,” then of course that goes badly. 4 for the first half, 3 for the second so 3.5 but not rounded up although as near as can be! Hope this helps!
I found myself frustrated by the plot decision and never really got past that.
I’ve found in her previous books that Rita Potter writes people well. I loved Mallory and Andi for most of the book but something just was missing. I think it was the whole, “oh I can’t say anything,” then of course that goes badly. 4 for the first half, 3 for the second so 3.5 but not rounded up although as near as can be! Hope this helps!
February 6, 2025
Star struck.
Yet another terrific book from this author. I love how different each book is it's a voyage of discovery each time you embark on one.
I thought this would be a movie tale similar to others, but should have known better. A beautiful story of two people loving each other from teenage years but of course never expressing their feelings, we are taken on a ride of ghastly friends, disturbing home life, grief and re building. Their are lovely characters supporting friends and the beautiful sister ce ce. You are certainly put through an emotional mill as you get to know them but it's so worthwhile, we can see a little of all of us here, the fear of rejection, I could certainly use an Andi in my life.
Yet another terrific book from this author. I love how different each book is it's a voyage of discovery each time you embark on one.
I thought this would be a movie tale similar to others, but should have known better. A beautiful story of two people loving each other from teenage years but of course never expressing their feelings, we are taken on a ride of ghastly friends, disturbing home life, grief and re building. Their are lovely characters supporting friends and the beautiful sister ce ce. You are certainly put through an emotional mill as you get to know them but it's so worthwhile, we can see a little of all of us here, the fear of rejection, I could certainly use an Andi in my life.
January 23, 2026
This was ok. 2.5 stars. A true slow burn (and closed door) romance. It was a fast and easy read with like-able characters, that I found myself rooting for but the story itself was a bit meh and forgettable. The side characters were lovely and the story flows easily enough. Big knit, with all those awards and millions Mallory has, she couldn’t get herself to therapy?
February 5, 2025
Another great read
This book made me cry and laugh but happy ending are my favorite books. The characters are very interesting and well developed. Thanks for another winner.
This book made me cry and laugh but happy ending are my favorite books. The characters are very interesting and well developed. Thanks for another winner.
August 3, 2025
Actual rating: 3.1 (I'm being generous)
I really wanted to like this book, but I just couldn't.
'One I Knew' had the potential to deliver a powerful second-chance sapphic love story, but ultimately left me underwhelmed. The core concept — a successful celebrity reconnecting with her old best friend from a small town — should’ve packed emotional depth, tension, and longing. Instead, it leaned on a tired twist that felt obvious (to me) from the start.
The big reveal? Not exactly shocking.
And honestly... the idea of a high-profile celebrity emotionally bonding with a stranger online in this day and age? Super unrealistic. That only works in fanfic, not in a world where celebs have PR teams and NDAs on standby.
Worse still? The chemistry between Mallory and Andi felt flat. Teasing banter? Absent. Slow burn? More like slow… yawn. And for a romance book that markets itself on reconnection and longing, the lack of steam or emotional intensity was disappointing. No smut, no real tension, no moments that made me scream “just kiss already!” It read like a safe, PG-version of something that should’ve been way messier and sexier.
I'm not saying a good sapphic book needs a smut scene, but if the characters keep dancing around each other like they’re building toward one, and it never happens, then the story needs to compensate with either stronger storytelling or a heart wrenching emotional payoff. Unfortunately, this one just didn’t cut it for me.
I think I actually preferred them in their best friend phase. Especially in the opening chapters, when no one knew Mallory was in town except for Andi. Those moments had a quiet intimacy the rest of the book never quite recaptured.
If you’re new to sapphic romance or want something gentle and very low-stakes, maybe this will work for you. But if you're craving heat, sharp dialogue, or heartache with bite? Look elsewhere.
I really wanted to like this book, but I just couldn't.
'One I Knew' had the potential to deliver a powerful second-chance sapphic love story, but ultimately left me underwhelmed. The core concept — a successful celebrity reconnecting with her old best friend from a small town — should’ve packed emotional depth, tension, and longing. Instead, it leaned on a tired twist that felt obvious (to me) from the start.
The big reveal? Not exactly shocking.
And honestly... the idea of a high-profile celebrity emotionally bonding with a stranger online in this day and age? Super unrealistic. That only works in fanfic, not in a world where celebs have PR teams and NDAs on standby.
Worse still? The chemistry between Mallory and Andi felt flat. Teasing banter? Absent. Slow burn? More like slow… yawn. And for a romance book that markets itself on reconnection and longing, the lack of steam or emotional intensity was disappointing. No smut, no real tension, no moments that made me scream “just kiss already!” It read like a safe, PG-version of something that should’ve been way messier and sexier.
I'm not saying a good sapphic book needs a smut scene, but if the characters keep dancing around each other like they’re building toward one, and it never happens, then the story needs to compensate with either stronger storytelling or a heart wrenching emotional payoff. Unfortunately, this one just didn’t cut it for me.
I think I actually preferred them in their best friend phase. Especially in the opening chapters, when no one knew Mallory was in town except for Andi. Those moments had a quiet intimacy the rest of the book never quite recaptured.
If you’re new to sapphic romance or want something gentle and very low-stakes, maybe this will work for you. But if you're craving heat, sharp dialogue, or heartache with bite? Look elsewhere.
October 12, 2025
90% of the book was good and perfect, but at the end, you know, if you have two characters who love each other so intensely, then there has to be equally intense sex in the storyline, otherwise we readers feel something is missing. So here is the flaw in the book, and I can tell for those who haven't read it yet, the author didn't even give them a passionate kiss.
March 13, 2025
Very, very slow burn but nice.
December 2, 2025
I gave this book up when I reached 30% of the story. I find this whole story unappealing because of the following:
1. The plot design is so naive and unrealistic.
The major assumptions of the story just don't stand at all. How, on earth, can an Oscar-winning hugely-successful actress possibly be empty inside after all her achievements? With all the top-tier resources in the world, Mallory could have talked to her agent, business manager, friends in the industry, or even resorted to hired psychiatrists for spiritual healing. Why going back to her rinky-dink childhood house where memories were so unpleasant would be of any meaning to her? Besides, after 20 years of separation, Mallory and Andi would be so detached to each other in reality. How could they ignite connections to each other so immediately and easily? Such a dreamy situation can only happen in fairy tales. I find it so unacceptable in a way that I just can't continue reading on.
2. Lack of chemistry between MCs
I don't see any heart-gripping chemistry between MCs even though the author has tried very hard to portray those dialogues and moments between the MCs. I find it very dull to continue reading.
I had very high expectations for this novel after I read the brief description of the plot. MC status contradiction is such a good point to lure readers in. There could have been so many twists and turns, pains and laughs, and so much subtleness that touches the readers' hearts. However, it turned out quite a disappointment. The mentality building that is the very core to the two MCs and the development of their relationship is far from satisfying and enough. The literature feels very young adult, fake and pretentious. So it's better I gave it up.
1. The plot design is so naive and unrealistic.
The major assumptions of the story just don't stand at all. How, on earth, can an Oscar-winning hugely-successful actress possibly be empty inside after all her achievements? With all the top-tier resources in the world, Mallory could have talked to her agent, business manager, friends in the industry, or even resorted to hired psychiatrists for spiritual healing. Why going back to her rinky-dink childhood house where memories were so unpleasant would be of any meaning to her? Besides, after 20 years of separation, Mallory and Andi would be so detached to each other in reality. How could they ignite connections to each other so immediately and easily? Such a dreamy situation can only happen in fairy tales. I find it so unacceptable in a way that I just can't continue reading on.
2. Lack of chemistry between MCs
I don't see any heart-gripping chemistry between MCs even though the author has tried very hard to portray those dialogues and moments between the MCs. I find it very dull to continue reading.
I had very high expectations for this novel after I read the brief description of the plot. MC status contradiction is such a good point to lure readers in. There could have been so many twists and turns, pains and laughs, and so much subtleness that touches the readers' hearts. However, it turned out quite a disappointment. The mentality building that is the very core to the two MCs and the development of their relationship is far from satisfying and enough. The literature feels very young adult, fake and pretentious. So it's better I gave it up.
April 29, 2025
4.75 stars out 5. I am still on the fence about this rating since I was actually very much into the book. The 0.15 was taken off because of the ending. The whole book was so fun and at times heartfelt but then that ending felt a bit rushed to me. When it cut to a few months later and then the performance, I was like that’s it? That’s how they got to their relationship? The book spent so much time showing us Andi’s and Mallory’s relationship and connection and then when a major betrayal happens, we’re just supposed to be okay with a fast forward to the end result? We’re only told in a sentence or two that they talked everyday and got through it but I thought it was disappointing as a reader who became invested in these characters to not at least show us a chapter or two of them reconnecting. And also maybe a scene of them as a couple. We spent the whole book waiting for them to get together and then we get NOTHING about them being in love and everything?
Rant over but seriously this book was pretty much perfect for me until the end. I loved how character driven this book was. It was a pretty simple idea that was elevated and became so meaningful because of the characters, their relationship with each other, and themselves. I found points of connection between myself and Andi and myself and Mallory that really endeared me to them and their story, as individuals and as a couple. This book also helped me get out of my reading slump so extra points for that alone.
All in all, I had a great time reading this and it looking forward to reading more from this author.
Rant over but seriously this book was pretty much perfect for me until the end. I loved how character driven this book was. It was a pretty simple idea that was elevated and became so meaningful because of the characters, their relationship with each other, and themselves. I found points of connection between myself and Andi and myself and Mallory that really endeared me to them and their story, as individuals and as a couple. This book also helped me get out of my reading slump so extra points for that alone.
All in all, I had a great time reading this and it looking forward to reading more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2026
Rating: ☆☆☆
Well… I spent a good amount of time reading this book ranting to one of my friends about this book. The story was okay. While the beginning was slow and—I thought—rather boring, it picked up in the second half.
I really wasn’t a huge fan of Andi up until the end. I suppose you could call it character growth, but she was so so so passive in her friendship with Mallory, always putting her first. Come on, girl, please stick up for yourself! On that note, Mallory recognized that selflessness and took advantage of it :(
All that would’ve made it a four star book. So, why the three star rating? Have you heard of the Gay fanfiction problem? If not, it’s when there are too many of the same pronouns due to the two main characters sharing pronouns, so the subjects become ambiguous. Well, Rita Potter wouldn’t allow that, and in my opinion went WAY overboard with using first names instead of pronouns, when either it wasn’t necessary or sentences could’ve been reworded to avoid ambiguity. The overuse of given names led many sentences to come off as choppy.
Romance or erotica?: Romance
POV: third person, alternating focus
Plot: ☆☆☆
Pacing: ☆☆☆☆
Mallory: ☆☆☆
Andi: ☆☆
Side characters: ☆☆☆
Ending: ☆☆☆☆
Spice: NONE
Kinks: none
Triggers: none
Well… I spent a good amount of time reading this book ranting to one of my friends about this book. The story was okay. While the beginning was slow and—I thought—rather boring, it picked up in the second half.
I really wasn’t a huge fan of Andi up until the end. I suppose you could call it character growth, but she was so so so passive in her friendship with Mallory, always putting her first. Come on, girl, please stick up for yourself! On that note, Mallory recognized that selflessness and took advantage of it :(
All that would’ve made it a four star book. So, why the three star rating? Have you heard of the Gay fanfiction problem? If not, it’s when there are too many of the same pronouns due to the two main characters sharing pronouns, so the subjects become ambiguous. Well, Rita Potter wouldn’t allow that, and in my opinion went WAY overboard with using first names instead of pronouns, when either it wasn’t necessary or sentences could’ve been reworded to avoid ambiguity. The overuse of given names led many sentences to come off as choppy.
Romance or erotica?: Romance
POV: third person, alternating focus
Plot: ☆☆☆
Pacing: ☆☆☆☆
Mallory: ☆☆☆
Andi: ☆☆
Side characters: ☆☆☆
Ending: ☆☆☆☆
Spice: NONE
Kinks: none
Triggers: none
March 17, 2025
A Sweet and Heartwarming “Slow” Burn Love Story!
Rita Potter loves to give us eclectic stories about love. At first I hoped this wasn’t a slow burn type story. However this was a slow burn that I actually enjoyed. Being someone’s best friend while secretly loving them and watching them win awards as a beautiful celebrity conquering the world was something Andi would forever do. Mallory, her best friend since twelve, had a fallen out and Mallory left at eighteen. But Mallory was having a hard time being accepted in Hollywood including her disastrous love life. After winning an Oscar leaving only one away from an EGOT, Mallory was hollow inside. Forcing herself to go back to her hometown, looking for the reason for her unhappiness. With both women having some serious issues that neither wanted to face, a reconnecting could be a disaster. Being in her hometown with all its memories could be a disaster. Leave it to Rita to have some twists and turns that could turn a slow burn into a fast read.
Rita Potter loves to give us eclectic stories about love. At first I hoped this wasn’t a slow burn type story. However this was a slow burn that I actually enjoyed. Being someone’s best friend while secretly loving them and watching them win awards as a beautiful celebrity conquering the world was something Andi would forever do. Mallory, her best friend since twelve, had a fallen out and Mallory left at eighteen. But Mallory was having a hard time being accepted in Hollywood including her disastrous love life. After winning an Oscar leaving only one away from an EGOT, Mallory was hollow inside. Forcing herself to go back to her hometown, looking for the reason for her unhappiness. With both women having some serious issues that neither wanted to face, a reconnecting could be a disaster. Being in her hometown with all its memories could be a disaster. Leave it to Rita to have some twists and turns that could turn a slow burn into a fast read.
March 6, 2025
If you’re looking for a sweet, fluffy tale, One I Knew fits the bill. While there is an emotional depth to both Mallory and Andi, as individuals and as two women finding their way back to one another, at its core, this book is still a contemporary romance that is more focused on the happy ending than the heavy hitting moments.
There was a plot twist that you could predict, but watching it unfold was akin to watching a slow motion train wreck unfold before your eyes. I could see precisely how it was going to impact both Mallory and Andi, how it would set them back and how they would find a way forward and even at the height of the discomfort, I couldn’t look away. This is the beauty of One I Knew – even at the raw, vulnerable moments that made me cringe and want to skip ahead, I couldn’t.
See my full review on TheLesbianReview.com.
There was a plot twist that you could predict, but watching it unfold was akin to watching a slow motion train wreck unfold before your eyes. I could see precisely how it was going to impact both Mallory and Andi, how it would set them back and how they would find a way forward and even at the height of the discomfort, I couldn’t look away. This is the beauty of One I Knew – even at the raw, vulnerable moments that made me cringe and want to skip ahead, I couldn’t.
See my full review on TheLesbianReview.com.
March 27, 2025
Rita has the most quirky characters. They are lovable and flawed. Real.
This was a little different. More focused on the two main characters. The townsfolk were still fun and quirky though!
And although it seems like a Hollywood book … it is more of a twist. If you are a Rita Potter fan you expect the twist.
The main characters were lovely in their own way. It also approaches some mental difficulties.
The journey is lovely. The romance is well paced.
Rita books make me happy. Even when they aren’t happy at times … there is always a quirky person or a funny moment or an unlikely pair. And she never forgets her characters are human. They are always loving and flawed.
Gaps. Time.
I can’t wait for the next Rita on audiobook. And I love that she found her narrator that she loves and feels does her books justice. Cheers to that!
💕
This was a little different. More focused on the two main characters. The townsfolk were still fun and quirky though!
And although it seems like a Hollywood book … it is more of a twist. If you are a Rita Potter fan you expect the twist.
The main characters were lovely in their own way. It also approaches some mental difficulties.
The journey is lovely. The romance is well paced.
Rita books make me happy. Even when they aren’t happy at times … there is always a quirky person or a funny moment or an unlikely pair. And she never forgets her characters are human. They are always loving and flawed.
Gaps. Time.
I can’t wait for the next Rita on audiobook. And I love that she found her narrator that she loves and feels does her books justice. Cheers to that!
💕
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