A review by mybookishdelights
The Sweetest Oblivion by Danielle Lori

dark emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Heat Level: High
multiple graphic sex scenes, oral sex


This is a mafia/gang romance. It's the first one I've read of its type so I have no idea if it's good for that particular genre. As far as sexual/romantic tension and angst though... hot damn! 

I'm not sure how I feel about romanticizing the mafia. This isn't fantasy and I say that because I forgive a lot more in fantasy than I do in my contemporary fiction. Having said that, I don't think this particular book romanticized it. This was about a romantic relationship that is within the setting of the mafia. It's not really romanticizing the mafia itself. It's violent and brutal, but both characters are a part of this world and understand the rules. 

It does have a couple tropes that were predictable, but when you read a lot of romance books it's hard to not predict how things will go and it doesn't affect my enjoyment. But here they are in case they bother you or maybe you like them:
strong lust at first sight, forced marriage, miscommunication, "anyone touches you, they die"
.

I don't know if I would recommend this if graphic violence bothers you, but it is worth the read for the all that tension. Cause damn.

CAWPILE Score: 8.43 = 4.5 stars
Characters: 8
Atmosphere: 8
Writing: 8
Plot: 8
Intrigue: 9
Logic: 9
Enjoyment: 9
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