Sandy Barker's The One That I Want is a delightful exploration of modern romance, career ambition, and the often unpredictable journey to finding love. Set against the backdrop of a bustling city, the novel offers a fresh take on the classic romantic comedy, blending humor, heartache, and hope in a narrative that is both engaging and relatable.

At the center of the story is Greta Davies, a features editor at a women's magazine who seems to have it all—except for a fulfilling love life. Greta is a character that many readers will find themselves identifying with; she is driven, successful, and fiercely independent, yet her personal life is a series of romantic misadventures. Barker does an excellent job of crafting Greta as a multi-dimensional character, whose vulnerabilities and strengths are laid bare for the reader to see.

The novel's premise is both charming and intriguing. Greta's boss and friend, in a bid to help her find love, secretly enlists the services of the Ever After Agency. This sets the stage for a series of humorous and sometimes cringe-worthy dates that Greta embarks on, all in the name of research for a new column focused on dating in the city. The column itself becomes a clever narrative device, allowing readers to experience Greta's dating escapades through her witty and often self-deprecating commentary.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of the modern dating scene. Barker captures the chaos and unpredictability of dating in a big city with a keen eye for detail and a sharp sense of humor. Each of Greta's dates is a vignette of contemporary romance, complete with awkward encounters, mismatched expectations, and the occasional glimmer of hope. Through these experiences, Barker highlights the challenges and absurdities of finding love in the digital age, making the novel both timely and relevant.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the perfect man for Greta has been in her life all along. This revelation is handled with subtlety and grace, as Barker gradually builds the tension and chemistry between Greta and her long-time friend. The transition from friendship to romance is portrayed with authenticity, capturing the nuances and complexities of such a relationship shift. Barker's ability to convey the emotional depth of this transformation is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

Thematically, The One That I Want delves into the idea of self-discovery and the importance of being open to love in unexpected places. Greta's journey is not just about finding a romantic partner, but also about understanding herself and what she truly wants in life. Barker weaves this theme throughout the narrative, encouraging readers to reflect on their own desires and the barriers they may have erected in their pursuit of happiness.

In terms of character development, Barker excels in creating a cast of supporting characters who are both memorable and endearing. From Greta's well-meaning but meddling boss to her eclectic group of friends, each character adds depth and richness to the story. Their interactions with Greta provide moments of humor, wisdom, and warmth, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Comparatively, The One That I Want shares thematic similarities with works by authors like Sophie Kinsella and Marian Keyes, who are known for their witty and heartfelt takes on modern romance. Barker's novel, however, stands out for its unique blend of humor and introspection, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.

Overall, Sandy Barker's The One That I Want is a charming and insightful read that will resonate with anyone who has ever navigated the complexities of love and career. Its engaging narrative, well-drawn characters, and thoughtful exploration of contemporary romance make it a standout addition to the romantic comedy genre. Whether you're a fan of lighthearted love stories or looking for a novel with depth and humor, this book is sure to captivate and entertain.