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A review by thestorydragon
The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
emotional
funny
hopeful
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? It's complicated
3.75
Pros:
✨Authentic Romance
✨Queer Representation
✨Character Development and Relationships
✨Easy Read
Cons:
✨Spotty Pacing
✨Abrupt Reunion
This Bachelor inspired novel follows both behind-the-scenes handler and hopeless romantic, Dev, as well as the show's upcoming gorgeous, awkward, OCD Prince Charming, Charlie. This read was fast, fun, and cute, with two MMCs that were as loveable to readers as they were towards one another. Though the Bachelor setting of the Ever After television show was fun, and the sub-commentary regarding mental illness, systemic oppression in media via suppressed representations, and more were fond additions to the novel, it’s the way Charlie and Dev complimented one another that upped the star rating for me. They were completely accepting of each other and went out of their way to be inclusive of the character flaws of their respective partner. Dev gave Charlie a calm environment to ride out his compulsions and panic attacks, while Charlie gave Dev gentle nudges and full support through his depressive episodes. They found solace within one another, and despite this novel being quite average and subpar overall, I found myself absolutely beaming during parts of the story. The third-act break-up here felt organic to the story, not like a plot device for framework, though the reunion of the characters was rushed and came together a little too easy. Still, I enjoyed my time spent with this one!
✨Authentic Romance
✨Queer Representation
✨Character Development and Relationships
✨Easy Read
Cons:
✨Spotty Pacing
✨Abrupt Reunion
This Bachelor inspired novel follows both behind-the-scenes handler and hopeless romantic, Dev, as well as the show's upcoming gorgeous, awkward, OCD Prince Charming, Charlie. This read was fast, fun, and cute, with two MMCs that were as loveable to readers as they were towards one another. Though the Bachelor setting of the Ever After television show was fun, and the sub-commentary regarding mental illness, systemic oppression in media via suppressed representations, and more were fond additions to the novel, it’s the way Charlie and Dev complimented one another that upped the star rating for me. They were completely accepting of each other and went out of their way to be inclusive of the character flaws of their respective partner. Dev gave Charlie a calm environment to ride out his compulsions and panic attacks, while Charlie gave Dev gentle nudges and full support through his depressive episodes. They found solace within one another, and despite this novel being quite average and subpar overall, I found myself absolutely beaming during parts of the story. The third-act break-up here felt organic to the story, not like a plot device for framework, though the reunion of the characters was rushed and came together a little too easy. Still, I enjoyed my time spent with this one!