A review by liv_camryn
Vladimir by Julia May Jonas

dark reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

1.5

Firstly, I need to admit that I’m not the target audience for this type of book. I chose to read this in a effort to step out of my comfort zone and to get out of a reading slump. 

Secondly, don’t let the cover make you think this is a romance - It’s more of a character study told from the perspective of a middle aged female professor, who, in my opinion, is completely unhinged. I wouldn’t go into this trying to like any of the characters - they all pretty much suck. 

My biggest problem with the book is that it brings up an abundance of important issues, such as the impact aging has on women, power differentials, addiction, depression and sexuality just to start. However, it never actually does anything with the issues it brings up. Nothing is ever resolved. There’s absolutely no character growth whatsoever. 

All of that being said, I thought the writing was done well and the narrative was engaging. I think if these kinds of books are your thing, you’d probably enjoy this book.
I can honestly say that I’m glad I read this if only for the fact the I’m happily running back to my plot driven, fast paced, fantasy novels and spicy romances.  
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