Immortality: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Immortality: A Love Story in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
Dana Schwartz’s Immortality: A Love Story, the sequel to Anatomy, attempts to expand on the gothic atmosphere and medical intrigue of its predecessor. It ultimately struggles to maintain momentum or deliver a satisfying continuation of the story. While there are moments of intrigue, the novel is marred by pacing issues, underdeveloped characters, and a plot that often feels meandering and unfocused.
The Details
At the center of the novel is Hazel Sinnett, once again pursuing her dream of becoming a surgeon while navigating a world filled with societal expectations and supernatural elements. However, Hazel’s character, feels stagnant. Her motivations are unclear at times, and her internal struggles lack the depth needed to make her a fully realized and compelling protagonist. Rather than growing or evolving, Hazel’s journey in Immortality often feels like more of the same. There is little advancement or change in her character arc.
One of the novel’s major shortcomings is its uneven pacing. The narrative frequently drags, especially in the middle sections, with long, drawn-out sequences that don’t add much to the overall story. The plot meanders, with certain subplots feeling like unnecessary distractions rather than meaningful contributions to the central narrative. Even the moments that should be filled with tension feel oddly flat and fail to build the suspense that a gothic novel of this nature should thrive on.
Additionally, the romance subplot, which was already lacking in Anatomy, doesn’t fare any better in Immortality. The chemistry between Hazel and her love interest remains underwhelming. Their relationship feels more like a perfunctory addition than an emotionally rich or compelling aspect of the story. The romance is shoehorned into the plot in a way that feels disconnected from Hazel’s main narrative. It makes it difficult for readers to invest in their relationship.
The supernatural elements, which should have elevated the novel’s atmosphere, are also underdeveloped. Instead of adding a layer of mystery and intrigue, the concept of immortality feels tacked on. It never fully explored or explained in a way that feels satisfying. The stakes that should come with such a high-concept theme are never truly felt. Also, the novel’s attempts to mix historical fiction with speculative elements fall short of creating a cohesive and immersive world.
The Verdict
Overall, Immortality: A Love Story ultimately suffers from the same issues that plagued its predecessor, only amplified. Its lackluster pacing, weak character development, and unconvincing romance make it a disappointment. The novel may still appeal to readers looking for a light gothic read with historical elements. Sadly, it fails to deliver on its potential, leaving much to be desired for those seeking a more engaging and thought-provoking story.
