Scan barcode
A review by n_asyikin_
The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
challenging
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
A contemporary romance set in a background of a reality show where reality really catches up with our cast of characters.
I think it's important how the story depicted mental health issues especially in terms of the pervasiveness of ableism in our society. Being that it is a current default in society that often shaped internalized ableism, having the effects of ableism being portrayed set as a reminder of its cruelty.
Charlie's discovery of being in the ace spectrum spoke volume to me, personally. I think that compassion & acceptance seen between Dev & Charlie was necessary; the concept of being accepted for who you are consistent throughout this story.
That being said, there were certain aspects of the story that irked the pragmatics in me.Although Charlie was blacklisted in his industry, he was still a millionaire; I found the helplessness surrounding his situation, the dismissal over the power his wealth should bring as unbelievable really.
Although Cochrun did point out later on that 'love doesn't always provide miraculous cure', I thought that it was still a running theme in the story - which can be problematic. I get that Dev & Charlie were the stars of the story, but Dev's seeming magical ability to manage Charlie's anxiety and Charlie for Dev's depression implied that romantic partner should have innate ability to know-it-all which improve one's mental state. I personally found this idealism reductive of the efforts that go into managing chronic mental disorders. But perhaps I'm being pedantic.
I adored the analogies used by Cochrun, rather beautiful for a sweeping romance like this. Furthermore, I quite enjoy reading about the friendships shared between the characters; strong friendship is always a plus for me!
If you enjoy the drama & chaos that surrounds reality TV, you'll likely enjoy this book. The Charm Offensive was witty with a swoon-worthy romance set in the backdrop of self-discovery & self-acceptance.
I think it's important how the story depicted mental health issues especially in terms of the pervasiveness of ableism in our society. Being that it is a current default in society that often shaped internalized ableism, having the effects of ableism being portrayed set as a reminder of its cruelty.
Charlie's discovery of being in the ace spectrum spoke volume to me, personally. I think that compassion & acceptance seen between Dev & Charlie was necessary; the concept of being accepted for who you are consistent throughout this story.
That being said, there were certain aspects of the story that irked the pragmatics in me.
Although Cochrun did point out later on that 'love doesn't always provide miraculous cure', I thought that it was still a running theme in the story - which can be problematic. I get that Dev & Charlie were the stars of the story, but Dev's seeming magical ability to manage Charlie's anxiety and Charlie for Dev's depression implied that romantic partner should have innate ability to know-it-all which improve one's mental state.
I adored the analogies used by Cochrun, rather beautiful for a sweeping romance like this. Furthermore, I quite enjoy reading about the friendships shared between the characters; strong friendship is always a plus for me!
If you enjoy the drama & chaos that surrounds reality TV, you'll likely enjoy this book. The Charm Offensive was witty with a swoon-worthy romance set in the backdrop of self-discovery & self-acceptance.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Mental illness, and Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Vomit