Book Review: One Across, Two Down by Ruth Rendell

“We always know when we are awake that we cannot be dreaming even though when actually dreaming we feel all this may be real.”

― Ruth Rendell, One Across, Two Down

Ruth Rendell, a British author, wrote the psychological thriller book One Across, Two Down. In 1971, it was first published.  I.C. Arvin Brown's Diary of the Dead was adapted into a movie in 1976. Rapoport, with Hector Elizondo and Geraldine Fitzgerald in the lead roles.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

Two things interest Stanley crossword puzzles, and the substantial sum his wife Vera stands to inherit when his mother-in-law dies. Otherwise, life at 61 Lanchester Road is a living hell. For Mrs. Kinaway lives with them now—and she will stop at nothing to tear their marriage apart. One afternoon, Stanley sets aside his crossword puzzles and changes all their lives forever... 

In One Across, Two Down , master crime writer Ruth Rendell describes a man whose strained sanity and stained reputation transform him from a witless loser into a killer afraid of his own shadow.  Mischievously plotted, smart, maddeningly entertaining, One Across, Two Down is a dark delight—classic Rendell.

My reaction to this novel...

Being a fan of mystery books, particularly those with a psychological element, I was immediately drawn to Ruth Rendell's One Across, Two Down. This book looked like a fantastic choice because of its fascinating title and promise of domestic secrets. I had heard of Rendell's reputation for writing dark, intellectual suspense thrillers. However, after reading it, I must say that I feel conflicted. It is intricate, but not always captivating.

Stanley, the main character of the story, is a man who is completely engrossed with completing crossword puzzles.  However, this seemingly innocuous passion has a darker side.  He is an extremely flawed person who is unemployed, resentful, and plotting against his sick mother-in-law, whom he secretly hates.  When he begins to daydream about her passing and what it would entail for his financial gain, his life takes a darker turn.

Rendell does a fantastic job of gradually increasing the suspense, and the notion alone is both terrifying and captivating. Her characters have remarkable psychological depth, and her writing style is clever. However, I found the story to be more intricate than captivating. I frequently found it difficult to remember specifics or even to maintain my attention on the task at hand. There were moments when it seemed like the narrative was less about genuine suspense or surprises and more about seeing the characters' deranged thoughts.

I found the book challenging because of its sluggish pacing and internal monologues more than its vocabulary or ideas. The majority of the novel is set in Stanley's head as he planned, obsesses, and unravels.  Some readers may find this intriguing, but I personally found it to be very taxing. I would finish reading several chapters and find that I hadn't kept much of the content—not because the story wasn't good, but rather because I wasn't paying attention.

Even after completing the book, I still have trouble recalling some story details. Unlike previous thrillers, it didn't make an effect on me. The book's emphasis on psychological decline, in my opinion, is what makes it special, but it also makes it seem weighty and challenging at times.

I do respect what Rendell was attempting to do, though. One Across, Two Down is neither a fast-paced mystery nor a conventional whodunit. A person who is ethically adrift and on the verge of obsession is the subject of this in-depth character analysis. It does a great job of exploring the themes of greed, domination, resentment, and warped logic. I see why the work is respected by many critics and readers. However, this book might not be the ideal choice for those who are casual like myself or who would like have a little more action or clarity.

To summarize my experience, I would say that One Across, Two Down is a psychological thriller that makes you think about how deadly and misguided ordinary man can go. It is certainly not a light or soothing book. Furthermore, even though I like Ruth Rendell's writing and her skill at creating such genuine psychological tension, I didn't find this book to be as enjoyable as I had hoped.

Would I suggest it? It depends. This could appeal to you if you like slow-burning stories with ethically dubious people and don't mind a somber, moody setting. This can seem more like an effort than a joy, though, if you're searching for a gripping mystery or an exciting page-turner.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐✨(2.5/5)