Book Review: Alice Rue Evades the Truth by Emily Zipps
As the holidays roll in and the air is laced with anticipation, I found myself searching for the perfect cozy read to wrap up my year. Enter Alice Rue Evades the Truth, a sapphic retelling of the classic romcom While You Were Sleeping. Written by Emily Zipps, this novel caught my eye not just for its premise, but for its potential to blend nostalgia with fresh storytelling. Thanks to NetGalley and Random House | The Dial Press for the advanced digital copy—I dove right in!
From the very first pages, I was captivated by Alice Rue, a receptionist with a heart that vibrates with longing and self-doubt. When Alice saves her longtime crush, Nolan, she unwittingly finds herself caught up in a whirlwind of emotions while pretending to be his girlfriend during his hospital stay. It’s a delightful setup, one that walks the fine line between homage and originality—and I found it surprisingly satisfying.
At its core, this story is not just about the comical misadventures that come with pretending to be someone’s partner; it’s about Alice’s journey to understanding her self-worth. The real emotional crux of the narrative lies in her gradual connection with Van, Nolan’s butch sister. Van is not just a love interest; she’s a warm, grounded presence that instantly draws you in. Their slow-burning chemistry is a refreshing contrast to the high-stakes drama one might expect, emphasizing emotional growth over explosive twists.
Zipps’ writing style has a cozy charm, perfectly pacing the unfolding romance and the realities of Alice’s inner turmoil. The comfortable rhythm allows readers to truly feel each emotional beat, making Alice’s struggles resonate deeply—even if they don’t always land perfectly.
However, the exploration of heavier themes, like chronic illness and body image, nuanced the reading experience in a compelling yet complex way. Van’s journey with her chronic illness is respectful and poignant, contributing significantly to the story’s depth. In contrast, I found Alice’s internal monologue surrounding her weight to be challenging to navigate. While it’s true that many grapple with self-esteem issues, some of her more repetitive self-criticism felt unexamined, bordering on problematic. This portrayal could have been enriched by a narrative arc that provided a counterpoint, shining more light on her journey to self-acceptance.
The emotional weight of Alice’s journey—as she grapples with grief and the deep-seated need for belonging—remains impactful. Her messiness, described with heartfelt authenticity, connects with readers on a human level.
Overall, Alice Rue Evades the Truth is a charming, slightly bittersweet read that adeptly balances its romcom roots with a tender sapphic romance. It may not be perfect, but it crafts a memorable experience that lingers long after the last page. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys nuanced romantic tales that prioritize emotional honesty over chaos—perfect for those cozy days when you just need a little warmth in your heart.
This story left me feeling both hopeful and reflective, reminding me of the importance of authenticity, love, and the beauty of being seen for who you truly are. If that resonates with you, add this delightful read to your holiday list—you won’t regret it!
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