bookishlytorrid 's review for:

The Sweetest Oblivion by Danielle Lori

1.75

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

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I’ve had this book on my TBR for the longest and I’ve tried multiple times to start but never got father than the first chapter/first few pages. I never gave it much thought as to why, but 8% (25 pages in) I can confidently say: the problem lies in the writing and attempt at character building. It’s trying so hard to be sophisticated and mysterious, but it falls short. The mysticism is so repetitive, you start to lose interest in the what and why, and just wish for it to stop being mentioned. And the characters - it’s trying real hard to give them a personality but it feels hollow. It might be because it’s only a few pages in, and the author is trying to dump all of what makes them tick into a few paragraphs so it feels very two dimensional. It makes the characters uninteresting and from the start, I can confidently say that this book will only look to write explicit spice and try to mix a little mystery and danger into the (lack of) plot. 

After finishing the book, I can say the plot was never developed. It was in the end what was said in the beginning. There was no real danger or mystery. Any introduction to it was handled and resolved in the background so it didn’t affect the “plot” whatsoever. The mystery of the beginning was revealed and it was the most plain and boring thing. I will say Nico kind of grew on me, but it has more to do with my current state of mind and the yearning for a romantic partner who only has eyes and love for you, than the actual writing and development of the character.