ADORED

Genre: Romance/LGBTQ+/Open Door

Read via library loan from Libby

Book soundtrack: Head & Heart – Joel Corry (feat. MNEK)

I had so much reading this book. The romance is top-notch, there is swoon-worthy moments, the plot is satisfactorily complicated, and the writing is funny, sexy, and surprisingly deep.. From squealing with delight at their first kiss to realizing the characters have unique difficulties entering a relationship, there is so much to absorb from this novel. While Dev and Charlie are charming, natural caregivers, and disarmingly attractive and had me rooting for them from their meet-cute onwards; the real heart of this book is how their mental health has impacted and continues to impact their love lives.  There is both internal conflict for the MCs as well as complex relationships between our main characters and their families and friends.  Additionally, the whole game show plot was fun and incorporated into the plot without feeling cheesy or a rip-off of a certain show with roses. 

Cochrun crafts incredible characters; their anticipation, longing, sorrow, and humor leap off the page. The timeline in this book was long enough that the romance seemed to grow organically without feeling rushed or instant love.  The characters’ development is excellent, and while I may have disagreed with the character’s actions, the writing is too good (and honestly realistic) to complain. This is my second of her books, and I can tell I enjoy her writing because of the sheer number of details I can remember from each book. 

The depth of mental health issues discussed and handled in this novel was impressive and incredibly well-written. Both Charlie and Dev suffer from uncontrolled symptoms, and Cochrun’s writing helps to depict the myriad of ways depression, OCD, and anxiety manifest. I felt her message that depression can cripple even those who outwardly appear happy and successful, particularly poignant. 

The Charm Offensive has a beautifully charming love story, a well-thought-out plot, and wonderful diversity. So good!

If you like this check out How You Get the Girl for more ace rep or more game show vibes with What is Love