A review by paulineerika
A Novel Obsession by Caitlin Barasch

dark reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

This book was described as "wry and bold," but unfortunately, I didn't really find it to be either. The novel seems undecided about whether it's a more lighthearted reflection on a (privileged) woman's insecurities or a darker look at obsession. I found myself wishing the author had picked one of those and leaned into it--it would have made for a far more interesting book. As it was, Naomi is deeply annoying and frustrating. Her best moments are when she's self-aware and talks about her flaws, but those are few and far between. There's also brief mentions of the trauma she's suffered in her past, which are then largely ignored in favor of her constant internal whining about her relationship with Caleb. The book ends up being too long and too drawn-out, to the point where I was reading just to finish it, without really caring about what happened. Rosemary's revenge twist at the end was quite good, but then the ending becomes a little cliche and wishy-washy. Either Naomi is a cold, ruthless writer or she's suddenly changed and become a better person. Much like the book, I wish there had been a clearer resolution.
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