REVIEW: The Sweetest Oblivion

I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

The Sweetest Oblivion by Danielle Lori

Page Count: 380 pages

Release Date: June 20, 2018

My Rating: 3/5 stars

Goodreads Synopsis:

She’s a romantic at heart, living in the most unromantic of worlds . . .

Nicknamed Sweet Abelli for her docile nature, Elena smiles on cue and has a charming response for everything. She’s the favored daughter, the perfect mafia principessa . . . or was. Now, all she can see in the mirror’s reflection is blood staining her hands like crimson paint.

They say first impressions are everything . . .In the murky waters of New York’s underworld, Elena’s sister is arranged to marry Nicolas Russo. A Made Man, a boss, a cheat—even measured against mafia standards. His reputation stretches far and wide and is darker than his black suits and ties. After his and Elena’s first encounter ends with an accidental glare on her part, she realizes he’s just as rude as he is handsome. She doesn’t like the man or anything he stands for, though that doesn’t stop her heart from pattering like rain against glass when he’s near, nor the shiver that ghosts down her spine at the sound of his voice. And he’s always near. Telling her what to do. Making her feel hotter than any future brother-in-law should. Elena may be the Sweet Abelli on the outside, but she’s beginning to learn she has a taste for the darkness, for rough hands, cigarettes, and whiskey-colored eyes. Having already escaped one scandal, however, she can hardly afford to be swept up in another. Besides, even if he were hers, everyone knows you don’t fall in love with a Made Man . . . right?

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My Review:

Mafia? Enemies to lovers? Forbidden romance? Um, yes please. *sings* these are a few of my favorite things!

This book was such a good standalone NA romance novel, and I wholeheartedly enjoyed it! The writing was solid and fast-paced, the romances scenes were well written and steamy, and I found myself really rooting for the two "enemies to lovers," Elena and Nico. (I love that trope so much, I have to say). The plot was really interesting, and despite not knowing much about the Mafia I felt sucked into this "underworld" of violence, shifting loyalties, and glitz. Elena was such a likable character, and Nico was the epitome of a "bad boy"; a Mafia boss with a soft spot for nothing or nobody-- except Elena. Sparks fly!

If you like Mafia books, forbidden romance, quick-witted dialogue, or even just want a good romance novel, try this one!