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The Sculptor #1
Oblivion Black
The harder you try to escape, the more darkness pulls you under.
Art school dropout Ona Price is forced to clean up after a near-fatal overdose on a Manhattan sidewalk. While in recovery, she lands a job as the assistant to Antoni Azarov, the world-famous sculptor known as The Hands of God. Though he is difficult and brooding, his extraordinary talent reawakens Ona's passion for art, giving her life the meaning she so desperately craved. An undeniable attraction develops as they work together, but Antoni keeps his physical distance at all costs. When the predatory wife of a wealthy benefactor decides she wants the sculptor for herself, the monstrous secret that fuels Antoni’s art threatens to destroy all.
Oblivion Black is a lush transgressive fairy tale with the Gothic appeal of a Brontë novel. Literary fiction, romance, and thriller fans will appreciate this intense dive into existential confusion, intoxication, eroticism, and the volatile power of beauty.
Art school dropout Ona Price is forced to clean up after a near-fatal overdose on a Manhattan sidewalk. While in recovery, she lands a job as the assistant to Antoni Azarov, the world-famous sculptor known as The Hands of God. Though he is difficult and brooding, his extraordinary talent reawakens Ona's passion for art, giving her life the meaning she so desperately craved. An undeniable attraction develops as they work together, but Antoni keeps his physical distance at all costs. When the predatory wife of a wealthy benefactor decides she wants the sculptor for herself, the monstrous secret that fuels Antoni’s art threatens to destroy all.
Oblivion Black is a lush transgressive fairy tale with the Gothic appeal of a Brontë novel. Literary fiction, romance, and thriller fans will appreciate this intense dive into existential confusion, intoxication, eroticism, and the volatile power of beauty.
- GenresRomance
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 8, 2022
7 people are currently reading
1032 people want to read
About the author
Christa Wojciechowski
18 books104 followersChrista Wojciechowski is an American dark fiction writer who lives in Panama. She is the author of the SICK series and the founder of the Writers' Mastermind virtual writing community.
Christa's novella "Popsicle" was a semi-finalist in Coverfly's Cinematic Short Story Competition and will be published by Bloodshot Books in 2021. Her short story, "Observer Dependent Universe" will be featured in the upcoming "Chiral Mad 5" anthology, and “Blood Sisters” will be featured in “Shadow Atlas: Dark Landscapes of the Americas.”
Christa Wojciechowski is a member of the Horror Writers Association. She loves to play Chopin (badly) and sip Hendrick’s gin. When she is not reading or writing, she can be found rambling through the Panamanian wilderness with her two dogs or traveling with her dashing husband, Marco.
Christa's novella "Popsicle" was a semi-finalist in Coverfly's Cinematic Short Story Competition and will be published by Bloodshot Books in 2021. Her short story, "Observer Dependent Universe" will be featured in the upcoming "Chiral Mad 5" anthology, and “Blood Sisters” will be featured in “Shadow Atlas: Dark Landscapes of the Americas.”
Christa Wojciechowski is a member of the Horror Writers Association. She loves to play Chopin (badly) and sip Hendrick’s gin. When she is not reading or writing, she can be found rambling through the Panamanian wilderness with her two dogs or traveling with her dashing husband, Marco.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 12, 2023
,,People come and go in our lives. Sometimes, we are only meant to be with them for a moment on the journey. They can be our teachers and we can be theirs, but you can't hold on too tightly. You have to let them go. They are not yours to save. You have to save yourself."
After a bad overdose, Ona is forced to get herself together by her family. They love her, but can't stand to see the sparkle in her eyes disappear and her slowly dying. So, Ona goes to stay with her aunt that lives near one clinic where she can recover. Day by day. That's her plan of surviving. But after a while, she feels like she's trapped between four walls and starts to search for a job. The job she finds is as assistant to the world-famous sculptor, Antoni Azarov.
At first glance he is tall, dark, arrogant and cold man. Ona wonders if this job is right for her, because she doubts that her fragile soul can handle it. The only thing that stops her from leaving is art. Before the drugs, she was an art school student and was very talented. She is still doubting her talent, but seeing the pieces from The Hands of God woke up the side of her she shut down many years ago.
Antoni Azarov is known for his tragic past and his art. Everyone who knows his story understands his coldness, but the reality is that he only shows them what he wants them to see. He is keeping secrets from the public, secrets that are dangerous for him and for the people around him. That's why he doesn't want to get too close to anyone. He doesn't hate people, he just wants to protect them. But when his new assistant walks in the studio, there's a secret force that pulls him closer to her. What is so special about this woman? Is she just reminding him of his past, or she will be the one who will heal him from it? Will two dark and broken souls be able to find the light? Or there's a place for only one?
I have to say that the cover of this book doesn't do it justice. I wasn't expecting much but I was pleasantly surprised.
The entrance that Ona made, wow! The addiction is presented through the eyes of the addict itself, and we can see how it affects her life and the lives of those around her. Her POV let me peek and understand their pain, why they chose that path and what are they going through. Brutal honest, real and uncensored. Ona is very straight forward about her situation and how she got there. Despite her decisions in the past, we can see her true self fighting like a warrior to overcome the addiction. We all know that it's not easy to give up the drugs, some addicts always try to sneak and get back to that old life. But Ona is determent to succeed.
Antoni on the other hand... I just fell in love with him since page one! Dark, tall, mysterious and absolutely gorgeous man with past traumas, but still willing to get over them. His backstory made me want to hug him. The fact that he went through all that and he still wanted to protect Ona made my heart melt. I understood why he just locked himself inside and was fully focused on art.
The whole story is perfectly put together. When you read a book, you obviously remember the plot, but with this one I caught myself thinking about it throughout the day, when I wasn't reading it. I couldn't stop thinking about it and how it will end.
The characters are unique just like their story. It goes deep down and shows us all the things that makes us human beings. The readers will understand that their emotions are valid and not so different from ours. The author did an amazing job bringing them to life.
,,Oblivion Black" is dark and brutal, and yet stunning and beautiful. Dark black in a very good way. I couldn't get enough of it. It's definitely one of the best books I've ever read. What a remarkable book!
After a bad overdose, Ona is forced to get herself together by her family. They love her, but can't stand to see the sparkle in her eyes disappear and her slowly dying. So, Ona goes to stay with her aunt that lives near one clinic where she can recover. Day by day. That's her plan of surviving. But after a while, she feels like she's trapped between four walls and starts to search for a job. The job she finds is as assistant to the world-famous sculptor, Antoni Azarov.
At first glance he is tall, dark, arrogant and cold man. Ona wonders if this job is right for her, because she doubts that her fragile soul can handle it. The only thing that stops her from leaving is art. Before the drugs, she was an art school student and was very talented. She is still doubting her talent, but seeing the pieces from The Hands of God woke up the side of her she shut down many years ago.
Antoni Azarov is known for his tragic past and his art. Everyone who knows his story understands his coldness, but the reality is that he only shows them what he wants them to see. He is keeping secrets from the public, secrets that are dangerous for him and for the people around him. That's why he doesn't want to get too close to anyone. He doesn't hate people, he just wants to protect them. But when his new assistant walks in the studio, there's a secret force that pulls him closer to her. What is so special about this woman? Is she just reminding him of his past, or she will be the one who will heal him from it? Will two dark and broken souls be able to find the light? Or there's a place for only one?
I have to say that the cover of this book doesn't do it justice. I wasn't expecting much but I was pleasantly surprised.
The entrance that Ona made, wow! The addiction is presented through the eyes of the addict itself, and we can see how it affects her life and the lives of those around her. Her POV let me peek and understand their pain, why they chose that path and what are they going through. Brutal honest, real and uncensored. Ona is very straight forward about her situation and how she got there. Despite her decisions in the past, we can see her true self fighting like a warrior to overcome the addiction. We all know that it's not easy to give up the drugs, some addicts always try to sneak and get back to that old life. But Ona is determent to succeed.
Antoni on the other hand... I just fell in love with him since page one! Dark, tall, mysterious and absolutely gorgeous man with past traumas, but still willing to get over them. His backstory made me want to hug him. The fact that he went through all that and he still wanted to protect Ona made my heart melt. I understood why he just locked himself inside and was fully focused on art.
The whole story is perfectly put together. When you read a book, you obviously remember the plot, but with this one I caught myself thinking about it throughout the day, when I wasn't reading it. I couldn't stop thinking about it and how it will end.
The characters are unique just like their story. It goes deep down and shows us all the things that makes us human beings. The readers will understand that their emotions are valid and not so different from ours. The author did an amazing job bringing them to life.
,,Oblivion Black" is dark and brutal, and yet stunning and beautiful. Dark black in a very good way. I couldn't get enough of it. It's definitely one of the best books I've ever read. What a remarkable book!
October 8, 2024
Romance stories can occasionally feel predictable and monotonous, however, Oblivion Black is anything but. It's a romance between two guarded artists, both of whom have tortured pasts and dark secrets clawing their way to the surface to threaten their relationship. This book is not without its technical flaws, but the story itself transcends those, leaving the reader to mull over its dark, thought-provoking topics and experience a soul-bound romance worth fighting for.
It's an actual crime that this book has less than 100 reviews on it. If you want to feel something, to witness a romance riddled with (what I feel is) a very realistic portrayal of addiction and PTSD, this is the story for you. I'm so glad I picked it up.
Antoni and Ona's love story does not end here, and continues in the next book in The Sculptor series - Hierarchy of Needs! Heading there immediately!
Triggers (spaces added below because some of them contain spoilers):
This is not a comprehensive list. This is just what I can remember. Please do your own research on whether this book is right for you or not.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Heroin overdose
Drug addiction
Drug use
Childhood sexual assault (somewhat detailed, told as a memory by a character)
Sexual assault to one of the love interests by a side character
Violence
Murder
Assumption of MMC's sexual orientation by a side character
Derogatory slur used to describe MMC's assumed sexual orientation by a side character
It's an actual crime that this book has less than 100 reviews on it. If you want to feel something, to witness a romance riddled with (what I feel is) a very realistic portrayal of addiction and PTSD, this is the story for you. I'm so glad I picked it up.
Antoni and Ona's love story does not end here, and continues in the next book in The Sculptor series - Hierarchy of Needs! Heading there immediately!
Triggers (spaces added below because some of them contain spoilers):
This is not a comprehensive list. This is just what I can remember. Please do your own research on whether this book is right for you or not.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Heroin overdose
Drug addiction
Drug use
Childhood sexual assault (somewhat detailed, told as a memory by a character)
Sexual assault to one of the love interests by a side character
Violence
Murder
Assumption of MMC's sexual orientation by a side character
Derogatory slur used to describe MMC's assumed sexual orientation by a side character
August 7, 2022
Oblivion Black is as dark as its name suggests, a novel concealing layers upon layers of depth, like black primer on a Goya canvas. Exploring addiction, obsession, and how what we desire can either drive us to godlike feats or debase us to less than animals, Christa Wojciechowski uses her gift for psychological insight to rival and then trump the Russian masters. Oblivion Black is Clive Barker eroticism married with Tolstoy's tragedy. Her writing is pure heroin.
March 8, 2024
Let me start off by saying the fact that this has under 100 ratings is a crime!I If you have no triggers, I highly suggest going in completely blind.
The writing is beautiful, intentional, and layered with depth. I could not put this down once I started, and when I wasn’t reading it, I was still actively thinking about it. Two broken souls destined to fall ❤️🔥
The writing is beautiful, intentional, and layered with depth. I could not put this down once I started, and when I wasn’t reading it, I was still actively thinking about it. Two broken souls destined to fall ❤️🔥
February 23, 2024
Baby, this book had me hooked.
The more I got to know Antoni & Ona and their stories, the more I wanted to read.
The book is a DARK sapiosexual romance. There are so many parts of this story that made my heart hurt for Antoni & Made me side eye Ona. I loved Oz and Wanda and just the genuine love that surrounded both of these characters.
There were some chapters I had to reread simply because it was so intense. The poetic way Ona & Antoni speak about each other.. my goodness.
An amazing book, with great descriptions. I would recommend this book to anyone and I would def read it again.
I volunteered to read this ARC through BookSirens
August 5, 2022
I love stories about artists who work with clay. The scenes concerning Anton’s art are my favorite parts of the book. There is something about incredible artwork described in books that imbues the pieces with magic, even though there are no speculative elements to Oblivion Black.
Ona is a well drawn character, and it’s easy to empathize with her yearning for greatness and fear of mediocrity. You feel like you are with her each stumbling step as she attends the methadone clinic, goes to Narcotics Anonymous meetings, and tries to make a life without heroin.
Anton is a sympathetic character with a tragic past, and both the alluring and grotesque parts of his personality are well shown.
I wasn’t a fan of the chapters written from the point of view of a third character in the second half of the book. Perhaps if she’d appeared earlier in the book I would have been more interested in her story, but I found it hard to engage with her chapters so late in the novel.
This is a compelling novel, filled with emotion, tortured characters and beautiful descriptions of art. It holds your attention from the first page until the last, and you really want the best for the characters, even though they are circling the abyss.
I also want to praise the fantastic cover art. Not only is it captivating and beautiful, but it has lots of details that reference the novel. I really like that.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Ona is a well drawn character, and it’s easy to empathize with her yearning for greatness and fear of mediocrity. You feel like you are with her each stumbling step as she attends the methadone clinic, goes to Narcotics Anonymous meetings, and tries to make a life without heroin.
Anton is a sympathetic character with a tragic past, and both the alluring and grotesque parts of his personality are well shown.
I wasn’t a fan of the chapters written from the point of view of a third character in the second half of the book. Perhaps if she’d appeared earlier in the book I would have been more interested in her story, but I found it hard to engage with her chapters so late in the novel.
This is a compelling novel, filled with emotion, tortured characters and beautiful descriptions of art. It holds your attention from the first page until the last, and you really want the best for the characters, even though they are circling the abyss.
I also want to praise the fantastic cover art. Not only is it captivating and beautiful, but it has lots of details that reference the novel. I really like that.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 8, 2022
Oblivion Black started as a straight-forward story about a middle-class girl from New York, heading to her Aunt’s ranch for recovery after a heroin overdose. However, this quickly evolved into a heart pounding, page turner, that I couldn’t put down. I am not familiar with the author’s previous work and was worried this was going to be a romance novel. I should have taken a hint from the title, but I was surprised by how dark this novel was and I loved it. Our protagonist, Ona, in lieu of following the 12 steps of recovery, is consumed by her obsession for Antoni, her new boss and well-regarded sculptor in the socialite Manhattan community. What she doesn’t know is Antoni’s guarding secrets of his own, spawned from his traumatic childhood at a Russian orphanage. These characters are not always likable; they are flawed and human, but that’s what makes them more relatable (hopefully not too relatable). I also loved how the author told the story from multiple character’s perspectives, which added a nuisance to the madness that unfolded. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to sequel. I received an advance review copy for free from Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 29, 2022
First of all, you got to love that beginning. I mean, who begins their Book with a poetically written description of being unconscious.
I love ona's quirk of giving every new person she meets a paint color. And these aren't just plain old normal colors.
As someone who never got into hard drugs, and never even experimented with them, it was fascinating to learn about what it's like living in the heroin addict's world. I liked the way Ona was uncomfortably honest about what was appealing about the junkie lifestyle. The appeal wasn't just about how good it feels to be high. It was about how nice it was to be numbed of all cares and worries while staying high. Ona and her junkie gangster friend didn't have to worry about being tied down by a real job and other adult responsibilities. They went to bed and woke up whenever they wanted to, and did whatever they wanted when they wanted, while in a carefree heroin haze. Her gangster friend was very likable too. Thank God Ona decided to get her shit together and better herself, or else this lovely character would've had the potential to be a bad influence. However, this uncomfortable honesty made her more real and believable, and those struggling with narcotic addiction demons could most likely relate.
It was comforting and reassuring how she had such a supportive, non-judge mental family, and her treatment was simple. It got me rooting for her even more, to win her battle with addiction.
Now about Antony.
Sure, he wasn't the most lovable, huggable love interest, but his backstory helped you understand why he was the way he was. Same goes for the villain, Sonia. Yeah, she was a bit on the narcissistic side, but she didn't cause trouble just for the sake of being bad. Like with Antony, her dark state of mind had more damage, complicated layers.
I'm glad that this book addresses the fact that there are different types of PTSD. Antony was never in combat, but the trauma he had gone through as a kid caused PTSD that was just as hellish as that of war Veterans.
My favorite thing about this book, of course, is the frustrating sexual tension between Ona and Antony. Ugh! I can't wait until they finally do it.
Then there's that ending. 😯😯😯😯😯😯😯😯😯😯 That's all I'm going to say about that. Five stars all the way❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️
I love ona's quirk of giving every new person she meets a paint color. And these aren't just plain old normal colors.
As someone who never got into hard drugs, and never even experimented with them, it was fascinating to learn about what it's like living in the heroin addict's world. I liked the way Ona was uncomfortably honest about what was appealing about the junkie lifestyle. The appeal wasn't just about how good it feels to be high. It was about how nice it was to be numbed of all cares and worries while staying high. Ona and her junkie gangster friend didn't have to worry about being tied down by a real job and other adult responsibilities. They went to bed and woke up whenever they wanted to, and did whatever they wanted when they wanted, while in a carefree heroin haze. Her gangster friend was very likable too. Thank God Ona decided to get her shit together and better herself, or else this lovely character would've had the potential to be a bad influence. However, this uncomfortable honesty made her more real and believable, and those struggling with narcotic addiction demons could most likely relate.
It was comforting and reassuring how she had such a supportive, non-judge mental family, and her treatment was simple. It got me rooting for her even more, to win her battle with addiction.
Now about Antony.
Sure, he wasn't the most lovable, huggable love interest, but his backstory helped you understand why he was the way he was. Same goes for the villain, Sonia. Yeah, she was a bit on the narcissistic side, but she didn't cause trouble just for the sake of being bad. Like with Antony, her dark state of mind had more damage, complicated layers.
I'm glad that this book addresses the fact that there are different types of PTSD. Antony was never in combat, but the trauma he had gone through as a kid caused PTSD that was just as hellish as that of war Veterans.
My favorite thing about this book, of course, is the frustrating sexual tension between Ona and Antony. Ugh! I can't wait until they finally do it.
Then there's that ending. 😯😯😯😯😯😯😯😯😯😯 That's all I'm going to say about that. Five stars all the way❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️
August 18, 2022
Thanks to @BookSirens and @christawojo for this advanced reader copy.
This week’s headline? Your favorite color is the color of my aura.
Why this book? Synopsis sounded like it’s for me.
Which book format? ARC
Primary reading environment? Relaxing, on pain meds.
Any preconceived notions? I’m really excited to read it.
Identify most with? Ona
Three little words? “sacrificing for beauty”
Goes well with? Excellently cooked meals, copious amounts of wine, Ducati rides
Recommend this to? Art enthusiasts
Other cultural accompaniments: https://99designs.com/blog/tips/the-7...
Klimt’s The Kiss https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Kis...
https://elephant.art/artist-muse-gend...
Grade: 4.5/5
I leave you with this: “I examined their faces, mentally cataloging every feature. Absorbing people for future paintings was a habit left over from my dream of being an artist. For me it was like reading someone’s aura, summing up each person by assigning them a paint color.”
📚📚📚
Ona overdosed on heroin and is going to stay with her aunt in New Jersey while she recovers. She swaps one addiction for another as she becomes obsessed with Antoni, a sculptor. They develop an artist/muse relationship and Oblivion Black explores that while adding a wrench into the mix with the wife of a rich man who wants to seduce Antoni.
I read this in two sittings and definitely recommend it. The characters felt real and I really liked the writing style. I also found myself looking into Wojciechowski’s other books and her Sick series seems even darker than this one. I think I read somewhere that this is also a series and if so, I will definitely continue.
Oblivion Black is available now.
tw: child neglect and abuse, sexual abuse of a child, drug use, homophobic slur, non-consensual sex
This week’s headline? Your favorite color is the color of my aura.
Why this book? Synopsis sounded like it’s for me.
Which book format? ARC
Primary reading environment? Relaxing, on pain meds.
Any preconceived notions? I’m really excited to read it.
Identify most with? Ona
Three little words? “sacrificing for beauty”
Goes well with? Excellently cooked meals, copious amounts of wine, Ducati rides
Recommend this to? Art enthusiasts
Other cultural accompaniments: https://99designs.com/blog/tips/the-7...
Klimt’s The Kiss https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Kis...
https://elephant.art/artist-muse-gend...
Grade: 4.5/5
I leave you with this: “I examined their faces, mentally cataloging every feature. Absorbing people for future paintings was a habit left over from my dream of being an artist. For me it was like reading someone’s aura, summing up each person by assigning them a paint color.”
📚📚📚
Ona overdosed on heroin and is going to stay with her aunt in New Jersey while she recovers. She swaps one addiction for another as she becomes obsessed with Antoni, a sculptor. They develop an artist/muse relationship and Oblivion Black explores that while adding a wrench into the mix with the wife of a rich man who wants to seduce Antoni.
I read this in two sittings and definitely recommend it. The characters felt real and I really liked the writing style. I also found myself looking into Wojciechowski’s other books and her Sick series seems even darker than this one. I think I read somewhere that this is also a series and if so, I will definitely continue.
Oblivion Black is available now.
tw: child neglect and abuse, sexual abuse of a child, drug use, homophobic slur, non-consensual sex
September 5, 2023
Divinely twisted
The depth and complexity of the characters in this book are astounding. I literally could not put it down and have already downloaded the next book in the series. Although the ending was not quite a cliffhanger, it certainly left me intrigued for the next volume. The author’s metaphors and similes were particularly unique. Here is one of my favorites: “I was plagued by desire like the tightly-bodiced heroine of a bad romance novel.” Full of romance, suspense, art, and more, I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good horror/romance read. This author definitely has a new fan. (Trigger warning for graphic violence, drug use, and sexual trauma)
The depth and complexity of the characters in this book are astounding. I literally could not put it down and have already downloaded the next book in the series. Although the ending was not quite a cliffhanger, it certainly left me intrigued for the next volume. The author’s metaphors and similes were particularly unique. Here is one of my favorites: “I was plagued by desire like the tightly-bodiced heroine of a bad romance novel.” Full of romance, suspense, art, and more, I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good horror/romance read. This author definitely has a new fan. (Trigger warning for graphic violence, drug use, and sexual trauma)
September 23, 2022
A dark, sensual love story of two damaged souls, an abused, orphaned sculptor and an art student H addict on her journey to recovery.
I loved the writing, the vivid characters and the first half of the book. The story seemed to have depth until it plateaued. Somehow it lost its magic and the plot became expected. Also, it made recovery from H look easy and most of the events sounded far-fetched. Damaged souls yet they were lucky! What's their problem, why are they destructive? I couldn't sympathize or connect with them.
The story is unfinished, which is another thing I don't like, sequels. But that's just me.
Overall, it's grabbing and juicy, lots of tension there.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the writing, the vivid characters and the first half of the book. The story seemed to have depth until it plateaued. Somehow it lost its magic and the plot became expected. Also, it made recovery from H look easy and most of the events sounded far-fetched. Damaged souls yet they were lucky! What's their problem, why are they destructive? I couldn't sympathize or connect with them.
The story is unfinished, which is another thing I don't like, sequels. But that's just me.
Overall, it's grabbing and juicy, lots of tension there.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 9, 2022
Ona Price is an art school dropout who accidentally overdoses and she is found on a sidewalk. She realizes that she needs to get her life in order, after that incident. Antoni Azarov is an artist, a sculptor and he is world famous. Ona gets the job of his assistant. She discovers that Antoni has secrets that he has carefully kept hidden. Until one day a woman comes to threaten to expose his secrets. A gripping thriller about trauma, addiction, lust and obsession. An electrifying story and it’s about art, that’s a big plus for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 15, 2022
Christa Wojciechowski Does It Again! In this gripping, page turning, can't put down book, Christa creates memorable characters and real life situations.
Ona is a drug addict looking to recover. At times you want to hug her for her courage, at other times you want to shake her and scream don't screw it all up - be honest at least with yourself. Antoni, a gifted sculpture and Ona's boos has secrets and issues of his own. The two collide creating a dynamic pairing. You route for them but wonder if they will succeed together or if both will come crashing down.
I won't give up any secrets. You need to get a copy of this and read it yourself! You will not be disappointed.
Ona is a drug addict looking to recover. At times you want to hug her for her courage, at other times you want to shake her and scream don't screw it all up - be honest at least with yourself. Antoni, a gifted sculpture and Ona's boos has secrets and issues of his own. The two collide creating a dynamic pairing. You route for them but wonder if they will succeed together or if both will come crashing down.
I won't give up any secrets. You need to get a copy of this and read it yourself! You will not be disappointed.
December 31, 2022
Christa Wojciechowski goes to dark depths most writers wouldn't dare to go. Oblivion Black is a twisted fairy tale of love and art and the secrets we keep buried in our souls. An apple of discord where beauty is created by the Hands of God and desire is the ultimate price.
April 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this one. Watching Ona struggle and navigate her way through drug addiction was so powerful. Christa did a wonderful job portraying the effects addiction has on the individual and the family. Then you have this amazing, talented, damaged artist in Antoni, and you get to peak behind the currtin into what makes him him. There is no spice between love interests in this one, but it didn't need it.
Quotes:
"Your voice sends the particles I’m composed of into chaos. They quiver and collide in the symphonies wrought from your murmurings. I will sink deeper and deeper into you—the fact that you are here, that you exist now like this, aging every millisecond before me, a shooting star. A blooming flower that will inevitably wilt. Precious beyond reasoning."
Quotes:
"Your voice sends the particles I’m composed of into chaos. They quiver and collide in the symphonies wrought from your murmurings. I will sink deeper and deeper into you—the fact that you are here, that you exist now like this, aging every millisecond before me, a shooting star. A blooming flower that will inevitably wilt. Precious beyond reasoning."
November 23, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of Oblivion Black for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After the author's Popsicle entertained me as much as it did, I seized the opportunity to read Oblivion Black, and am incredibly pleased that I did: this is a novel that is not only enjoyable in the moment, but one that lingers long after you’ve read it.
Once again, the author casts a story about a drug addict with dark undercurrents, but unlike that book, this novel doesn’t play it for laughs, instead providing a nuanced look at addiction and how it affects those in its thrall. The reader is immediately introduced to the protagonist, Ona, in the midst of a heroin overdose. Soon, Ona is trying to move on with her life, including moving in with her aunt, seeking treatment at a methadone clinic, and attending Narcotics Anonymous. These events lead Ona to a new job, where she works as an assistant to world-renowned sculptor, Antoni.
The plot moves slowly, unveiled at a methodical pace that introduces the reader to Ona and her world, providing an intimate portrait of the character. Readers also get an intriguing look at Antoni, the secrets he harbours, and the sizeable mental health issues he faces.
The author builds Ona and Antoni’s tale like a romance, following the tropes of a slowburn love story, while also subverting it through a lingering darkness with shades of a twisted fairy tale. As the budding romance blooms, the story is filled with an overarching sense of dread at what’s to come, and it isn’t pretty. If you opt to read this, its subject matter is heavy, and it refuses to pull its punches.
The dark undercurrent is anchored by its sympathetic characters. Both Ona and Antoni have issues, and their attachment to one another is underpinned by their trauma. Despite their flaws, the reader can’t help but want them to have their happily ever after, even while questioning whether that should include each other. Both are clearly drawn and engrossing. Sonia, who sets her sights on Antoni, is a pure villain, but one who is entertaining to follow.
Oblivion Black is told in the first person, from Ona’s perspective. The story is seen through her eyes, with her own unique viewpoint colouring the story and its events. Ona is a wonderful character with a great voice that sells the events to the reader. On occasion, the POV character changes, largely to Antoni, but later, to Sonia. These chapters are written in the third person, which provides a different perspective that heightens the experience. The prose is written evocatively, capturing beauty throughout some horrific events.
Likewise, the dialogue works incredibly well. The novel features a vast cast of characters, all of whom sound unique and entirely natural. This helps the world feel lived in, and each character feels like a living, breathing, human being.
This is the first book in the author's The Sculptor series and ends on a cliffhanger. It’s a wonderful cliffhanger that beckons the reader to pick up the second book, but this comes at the cost of resolution to the story. This book doesn’t stand alone, meaning the sequel is required to continue the tale.
Oblivion Black is an evocative story that uses literary devices to tell a story about unhealthy people in an unhealthy relationship. Its twists and turns thrill as it provides an engrossing look at damaged people making their way through life. It’s unflinching, yet rewarding in a way that will stick with the reader long after they’ve closed the book.
My full review will be available on my website from 30 November 2022. To read it, and a host of other reviews, click here.
After the author's Popsicle entertained me as much as it did, I seized the opportunity to read Oblivion Black, and am incredibly pleased that I did: this is a novel that is not only enjoyable in the moment, but one that lingers long after you’ve read it.
Once again, the author casts a story about a drug addict with dark undercurrents, but unlike that book, this novel doesn’t play it for laughs, instead providing a nuanced look at addiction and how it affects those in its thrall. The reader is immediately introduced to the protagonist, Ona, in the midst of a heroin overdose. Soon, Ona is trying to move on with her life, including moving in with her aunt, seeking treatment at a methadone clinic, and attending Narcotics Anonymous. These events lead Ona to a new job, where she works as an assistant to world-renowned sculptor, Antoni.
The plot moves slowly, unveiled at a methodical pace that introduces the reader to Ona and her world, providing an intimate portrait of the character. Readers also get an intriguing look at Antoni, the secrets he harbours, and the sizeable mental health issues he faces.
The author builds Ona and Antoni’s tale like a romance, following the tropes of a slowburn love story, while also subverting it through a lingering darkness with shades of a twisted fairy tale. As the budding romance blooms, the story is filled with an overarching sense of dread at what’s to come, and it isn’t pretty. If you opt to read this, its subject matter is heavy, and it refuses to pull its punches.
The dark undercurrent is anchored by its sympathetic characters. Both Ona and Antoni have issues, and their attachment to one another is underpinned by their trauma. Despite their flaws, the reader can’t help but want them to have their happily ever after, even while questioning whether that should include each other. Both are clearly drawn and engrossing. Sonia, who sets her sights on Antoni, is a pure villain, but one who is entertaining to follow.
Oblivion Black is told in the first person, from Ona’s perspective. The story is seen through her eyes, with her own unique viewpoint colouring the story and its events. Ona is a wonderful character with a great voice that sells the events to the reader. On occasion, the POV character changes, largely to Antoni, but later, to Sonia. These chapters are written in the third person, which provides a different perspective that heightens the experience. The prose is written evocatively, capturing beauty throughout some horrific events.
Likewise, the dialogue works incredibly well. The novel features a vast cast of characters, all of whom sound unique and entirely natural. This helps the world feel lived in, and each character feels like a living, breathing, human being.
This is the first book in the author's The Sculptor series and ends on a cliffhanger. It’s a wonderful cliffhanger that beckons the reader to pick up the second book, but this comes at the cost of resolution to the story. This book doesn’t stand alone, meaning the sequel is required to continue the tale.
Oblivion Black is an evocative story that uses literary devices to tell a story about unhealthy people in an unhealthy relationship. Its twists and turns thrill as it provides an engrossing look at damaged people making their way through life. It’s unflinching, yet rewarding in a way that will stick with the reader long after they’ve closed the book.
My full review will be available on my website from 30 November 2022. To read it, and a host of other reviews, click here.
September 8, 2022
Oblivion Black was both a surprising and a fabulous novel; surprising in that I was expecting for some reason a sort of horror read a la Stephen King; but instead found a fabulous account of a young woman coming out of heroin addiction (horror I guess of another kind) in New York City and trying to find her way.
What makes this such a compelling novel are four things. First, the prose is powerful and economical: the author knows what they want to say and says it. It is enlivened by striking images and phrases but they do not distract from the second point, which is the narrative.
The narrative flow is gripping and we constantly want to know what happens next. The chapters are short and titled and each one leads you into the next phase of the journey.
Along with the masterful flow are two other factors: one, the emotional energy - it really sizzles in every scene. And on top of that, we empathise with the protagonist; we are rooting for her, I think, very early on despite her mistakes, her addictions and all else. In short, we like her; and this for me caused a major problem - I almost, as I read on, didn’t want to continue: I couldn’t bear the thought that she would come to harm or that this journey wouldn’t work out well for her!
But finally, the real genius of the book is that it is based on at least four myths or legends that inform the action: primarily the myth of Pygmalion is writ large; as is the story of Adam and Eve (which at the most astonishing moment in the narrative creates an overpoweringly sensual scene); the judgement of Paris and the Apple of Discord; and where finally to unpick all the potent symbolism we end up with a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde scenario!!! In this last observation we have two women, protagonist and antagonist, one a Madonna (albeit fallen) and one the Whore. There is a sense in which the author herself wrestles/wrestled with these two personalities, for they are both compellingly depicted; and of course, with the Apple of Discord myth also there, both women want to know the answer to that old archetypal fairy story question: Who is the fairest of them all?
Clearly, I could write a long essay on this, but I think it best to keep this brief and refer to one point only: the astonishing scene in which Pygmalion and Adam and Eve are both evoked with outstanding effects. This has to be one of the most sensual, erotic scenes in a novel I have ever read - it makes the Molly Bloom soliloquy in James Joyce’s Ulysses seem perfectly male, cheap and pornographic in comparison. This is something else: prolonged foreplay if nothing else! But imagine this: the male artist, The Hands of God, the sculptor who uses clay (that is earth - as in humans made by God from the dust), now sculpts the heroine, and she must remain perfectly still as those hands feel the clay, bring out her real beauty, the real woman within. We enter her mind as she senses - whilst absolutely still - the transformation that she is becoming in the hands that are not actually touching her. A transference is occurring. And as it does, she becomes excited … It is a wonderfully executed drama.
I strongly recommend this book. My only disappointment was that when I got to the end I discovered it was a trilogy so I hadn’t finished the book - there was more!!! Then I realised that that that was a good thing! Get yourself a copy, sit back, luxuriate in it and enjoy!
What makes this such a compelling novel are four things. First, the prose is powerful and economical: the author knows what they want to say and says it. It is enlivened by striking images and phrases but they do not distract from the second point, which is the narrative.
The narrative flow is gripping and we constantly want to know what happens next. The chapters are short and titled and each one leads you into the next phase of the journey.
Along with the masterful flow are two other factors: one, the emotional energy - it really sizzles in every scene. And on top of that, we empathise with the protagonist; we are rooting for her, I think, very early on despite her mistakes, her addictions and all else. In short, we like her; and this for me caused a major problem - I almost, as I read on, didn’t want to continue: I couldn’t bear the thought that she would come to harm or that this journey wouldn’t work out well for her!
But finally, the real genius of the book is that it is based on at least four myths or legends that inform the action: primarily the myth of Pygmalion is writ large; as is the story of Adam and Eve (which at the most astonishing moment in the narrative creates an overpoweringly sensual scene); the judgement of Paris and the Apple of Discord; and where finally to unpick all the potent symbolism we end up with a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde scenario!!! In this last observation we have two women, protagonist and antagonist, one a Madonna (albeit fallen) and one the Whore. There is a sense in which the author herself wrestles/wrestled with these two personalities, for they are both compellingly depicted; and of course, with the Apple of Discord myth also there, both women want to know the answer to that old archetypal fairy story question: Who is the fairest of them all?
Clearly, I could write a long essay on this, but I think it best to keep this brief and refer to one point only: the astonishing scene in which Pygmalion and Adam and Eve are both evoked with outstanding effects. This has to be one of the most sensual, erotic scenes in a novel I have ever read - it makes the Molly Bloom soliloquy in James Joyce’s Ulysses seem perfectly male, cheap and pornographic in comparison. This is something else: prolonged foreplay if nothing else! But imagine this: the male artist, The Hands of God, the sculptor who uses clay (that is earth - as in humans made by God from the dust), now sculpts the heroine, and she must remain perfectly still as those hands feel the clay, bring out her real beauty, the real woman within. We enter her mind as she senses - whilst absolutely still - the transformation that she is becoming in the hands that are not actually touching her. A transference is occurring. And as it does, she becomes excited … It is a wonderfully executed drama.
I strongly recommend this book. My only disappointment was that when I got to the end I discovered it was a trilogy so I hadn’t finished the book - there was more!!! Then I realised that that that was a good thing! Get yourself a copy, sit back, luxuriate in it and enjoy!
August 24, 2024
Tropes & Themes
Morally Gray / Skewed Moral Compass
Dark and Broody MMC
Artist and Muse
Boss and Assistant
“Touch her and die.”
Secrets
Mental Health Representation
Greek Mythology 》The Apple of Discord/ Venus
Temptress Antagonist
Addiction and Recovery
Genre:
Dark Romance
Dark Fiction
Suspense Thriller
Literary Fiction
“It was Oblivion, but blacker than that. There was no end or beginning, no body, no self. I was nothing and everything. I never was but always was. But then something touched my spirit, and like a flame to a wick, lit up my consciousness.” — Christa Wojciechowski
After Ona experiences a bleak peek at the deep, dark void of the afterlife after overdosing on a city street surrounded by gawking onlookers, she, with the support of her mother and zany aunt, (who are absolutely a hoot, btw), seeks help at a drug treatment center. Ona detoxes, then moves on to live and work with her aunt, at a Civil War-Style home Bed and Breakfast, while attending NA meetings and taking her daily dose of medication at the clinic every morning. Eventually, and while still in recovery, she is hired as an assistant to an eccentric Russian artist named Antoni. His passion for clay sculpting reignites Ona’s own for painting —one of many things taken from her because of her addiction; her joy and love for creating art. Ona keeps focused, busying herself in an effort to prevent relapse — to prevent “Oblivion Black” and keep her away from her old flame, gangster and dealer JoJo.
Moreover, her new boss provides for a welcome distraction, between his undeniable good looks to his artistic skill and mastery with clay, Ona is once again hooked. And when he abruptly fires the nude model hired for the month for an upcoming piece to a charity organization, he gruffly tells Ona, she will pose. 🔥 🔥 🔥
Oblivion Black is a slow-burn dark romance between two characters with slightly skewed moral compasses and a whole lot of baggage between them. Ona and Antoni’s love story is dark, violent, erotic, artful, glamorous and opulent, full of thrilling highs and devastating lows. The “black moment” shattered my heart to pieces, but the ending sealed their fate, and my heart back together — a tragic occurrence changing the directions of their lives, bringing them back together with enlightened, almost hypnotic understanding.
I was intrigued by Antoni’s backstory and felt the mental health representation was handled extremely well. The introduction of the raven-haired, black-jeweled-eyed vixen in crimson was like an additional layer on a chocolate cake, with whipped cream and strawberries. I love a temptress antagonist and Sonia really brings up the heat and the suspense/intensity of this story. This read hits all the high notes for multidimensional characters who feel realistic.
Artist and famous sculptor Antoni Asharov wins all the medals for broody, morally-gray book boyfriend. TWs galore: Antoni is no Cinnamon-Roll-Romance-Hero (and all the dark romance girlies rejoice — if you know, you know). He rides a Ducati, smokes cigarettes in the same swoon-worthy way as Mr. Cool himself, James Dean, and he has a troubled past that emerges in vile, ugly ways.
Fans of dark romance with artist and muse, and boss and assistant themes, will fall in lust with this book. Extremely recommended. I look forward to reading the next installment and continuing the story with Hierarchy of Needs!
Full Review AWellReadWomanBlog dot Com
Morally Gray / Skewed Moral Compass
Dark and Broody MMC
Artist and Muse
Boss and Assistant
“Touch her and die.”
Secrets
Mental Health Representation
Greek Mythology 》The Apple of Discord/ Venus
Temptress Antagonist
Addiction and Recovery
Genre:
Dark Romance
Dark Fiction
Suspense Thriller
Literary Fiction
“It was Oblivion, but blacker than that. There was no end or beginning, no body, no self. I was nothing and everything. I never was but always was. But then something touched my spirit, and like a flame to a wick, lit up my consciousness.” — Christa Wojciechowski
After Ona experiences a bleak peek at the deep, dark void of the afterlife after overdosing on a city street surrounded by gawking onlookers, she, with the support of her mother and zany aunt, (who are absolutely a hoot, btw), seeks help at a drug treatment center. Ona detoxes, then moves on to live and work with her aunt, at a Civil War-Style home Bed and Breakfast, while attending NA meetings and taking her daily dose of medication at the clinic every morning. Eventually, and while still in recovery, she is hired as an assistant to an eccentric Russian artist named Antoni. His passion for clay sculpting reignites Ona’s own for painting —one of many things taken from her because of her addiction; her joy and love for creating art. Ona keeps focused, busying herself in an effort to prevent relapse — to prevent “Oblivion Black” and keep her away from her old flame, gangster and dealer JoJo.
Moreover, her new boss provides for a welcome distraction, between his undeniable good looks to his artistic skill and mastery with clay, Ona is once again hooked. And when he abruptly fires the nude model hired for the month for an upcoming piece to a charity organization, he gruffly tells Ona, she will pose. 🔥 🔥 🔥
Oblivion Black is a slow-burn dark romance between two characters with slightly skewed moral compasses and a whole lot of baggage between them. Ona and Antoni’s love story is dark, violent, erotic, artful, glamorous and opulent, full of thrilling highs and devastating lows. The “black moment” shattered my heart to pieces, but the ending sealed their fate, and my heart back together — a tragic occurrence changing the directions of their lives, bringing them back together with enlightened, almost hypnotic understanding.
I was intrigued by Antoni’s backstory and felt the mental health representation was handled extremely well. The introduction of the raven-haired, black-jeweled-eyed vixen in crimson was like an additional layer on a chocolate cake, with whipped cream and strawberries. I love a temptress antagonist and Sonia really brings up the heat and the suspense/intensity of this story. This read hits all the high notes for multidimensional characters who feel realistic.
Artist and famous sculptor Antoni Asharov wins all the medals for broody, morally-gray book boyfriend. TWs galore: Antoni is no Cinnamon-Roll-Romance-Hero (and all the dark romance girlies rejoice — if you know, you know). He rides a Ducati, smokes cigarettes in the same swoon-worthy way as Mr. Cool himself, James Dean, and he has a troubled past that emerges in vile, ugly ways.
Fans of dark romance with artist and muse, and boss and assistant themes, will fall in lust with this book. Extremely recommended. I look forward to reading the next installment and continuing the story with Hierarchy of Needs!
Full Review AWellReadWomanBlog dot Com
October 6, 2024
Oblivion Black, by Christa Wojciechowski, is a gritty, darkly compelling story of addiction, trauma, and the quest for redemption. It follows Ona Price, an art school dropout navigating the brutal realities of heroin addiction and the emotional spiral it causes. Set in the seedy underbelly of New York City and later in the rural calm of her aunt's bed-and-breakfast, Ona's journey is one of self-destruction, survival, and the long, painful process of trying to reclaim her life.
The book weaves vivid descriptions of withdrawal and heroin highs with Ona's inner turmoil, delving into themes of love, obsession, and despair. What struck me first about this book was the raw, unapologetic portrayal of addiction. Wojciechowski doesn't sugarcoat the experience. In fact, she plunges you straight into the darkness of it. The vivid, almost cinematic scenes made me feel like I was right there with her, suffocating under the weight of her choices.
The writing hits hard and fast, often as disorienting as the life Ona is living. I found myself both repulsed and captivated by her self-destruction, wanting to reach through the pages and shake her awake. Wojciechowski’s ability to depict inner conflict is stunning. Ona’s thoughts are chaotic yet painfully introspective, such as when she reflects on her artistic ambitions and how her addiction has derailed them. The way the narrative delves into Ona’s psyche made me both pity and admire her. Her contradictions make her feel incredibly real—she’s someone who knows she’s broken, but she can’t quite summon the strength to pull herself together.
The book’s pacing takes on a slower, more reflective tone in the middle. This shift allows the reader to truly immerse in the painstaking nature of the healing process, capturing the realistic ebb and flow of emotions. The portrayal of Ona’s daily struggle creates a sense of authenticity, highlighting the repetitive yet essential small victories and setbacks of recovery. And just when the routine starts to feel too settled, Wojciechowski injects powerful moments of raw emotion that reignite the intensity and keep the reader deeply engaged.
Oblivion Black is not for the faint of heart. It’s a gritty, disturbing, and often uncomfortable read, but it’s also beautifully crafted, with characters that linger long after the last page. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys psychological fiction that doesn’t shy away from dark, complex themes. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate stories that explore the depths of human suffering and the possibility of redemption, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
The book weaves vivid descriptions of withdrawal and heroin highs with Ona's inner turmoil, delving into themes of love, obsession, and despair. What struck me first about this book was the raw, unapologetic portrayal of addiction. Wojciechowski doesn't sugarcoat the experience. In fact, she plunges you straight into the darkness of it. The vivid, almost cinematic scenes made me feel like I was right there with her, suffocating under the weight of her choices.
The writing hits hard and fast, often as disorienting as the life Ona is living. I found myself both repulsed and captivated by her self-destruction, wanting to reach through the pages and shake her awake. Wojciechowski’s ability to depict inner conflict is stunning. Ona’s thoughts are chaotic yet painfully introspective, such as when she reflects on her artistic ambitions and how her addiction has derailed them. The way the narrative delves into Ona’s psyche made me both pity and admire her. Her contradictions make her feel incredibly real—she’s someone who knows she’s broken, but she can’t quite summon the strength to pull herself together.
The book’s pacing takes on a slower, more reflective tone in the middle. This shift allows the reader to truly immerse in the painstaking nature of the healing process, capturing the realistic ebb and flow of emotions. The portrayal of Ona’s daily struggle creates a sense of authenticity, highlighting the repetitive yet essential small victories and setbacks of recovery. And just when the routine starts to feel too settled, Wojciechowski injects powerful moments of raw emotion that reignite the intensity and keep the reader deeply engaged.
Oblivion Black is not for the faint of heart. It’s a gritty, disturbing, and often uncomfortable read, but it’s also beautifully crafted, with characters that linger long after the last page. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys psychological fiction that doesn’t shy away from dark, complex themes. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate stories that explore the depths of human suffering and the possibility of redemption, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
May 13, 2024
𝑰𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑺𝒄𝒖𝒍𝒑𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝒃𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑾𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝑺𝒐𝒖𝒍...
𝑻𝑹𝑶𝑷𝑬𝑺/ 𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑯𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑳𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑻𝑺 :📑
💟 Dark Romance (More so emotionally)
💟 He's a Renowned Sculptor
💟 She's an ex-addict/ Painter
💟 Boss- Assistant
💟 Fighting your demons of the past
💟 Healing through art
𝑴𝒀 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾: 📝
This one was a rocker of a ride where we are thrown into tumbling waters in the ocean of emotional distress from a painful past, fighting your demons, trying to find healing and a talent borne out of a wounded soul.
When we first meet Ona, we see her sinking to the bottom and then having no other way to go except to rise up or plain give up.
Her amazing family though doesn't give up on her and even when they feel it's too much for them, she takes up residence with her extended family who help her in her journey to finding herself again.
Ona finds a job that she thinks will help her move a step ahead in improving her life and it does because she gets the opportunity of working for none other an man, whose sculptures have a reputation of their own.
Antoni Azarov doesn't just create sculptures, he brings to life the beauty that he sees while also silencing his inner demons that constantly fight to get out.
When they first meet, I was both scared and excited for Ona. Getting this opportunity meant so much for her while also not knowing whether she'll be approved by the man himself or not.
It gets all the more interesting when Ona finds the Master Sculptor himself being ensnared by her and when she's asked to be his muse for a model commissioned for the charity, things drastically begin to change between them.
There's an Intensity to the way Ona and Antoni connect and the way sparks keep flying between them, you can feel the raw chemistry between these two.
But Antoni's past is like a breathing entity that chains him, and only time will tell how he will be able to find freedom from his shackles.
I especially was feeling so pained by what happened to Antoni and really wish for that man to find his freedom from the mental prison that he was admitted to for no fault of his.
That ending though, Oh my... So nervous and scared for what will happen next after that horrific turn that happens out of nowhere.
There are also many questions that need answers and definitely the need to find out how Ona and Antoni will find their way to one another. ❤️❤️❤️
𝑻𝑹𝑶𝑷𝑬𝑺/ 𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑯𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑳𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑻𝑺 :📑
💟 Dark Romance (More so emotionally)
💟 He's a Renowned Sculptor
💟 She's an ex-addict/ Painter
💟 Boss- Assistant
💟 Fighting your demons of the past
💟 Healing through art
𝑴𝒀 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾: 📝
This one was a rocker of a ride where we are thrown into tumbling waters in the ocean of emotional distress from a painful past, fighting your demons, trying to find healing and a talent borne out of a wounded soul.
When we first meet Ona, we see her sinking to the bottom and then having no other way to go except to rise up or plain give up.
Her amazing family though doesn't give up on her and even when they feel it's too much for them, she takes up residence with her extended family who help her in her journey to finding herself again.
Ona finds a job that she thinks will help her move a step ahead in improving her life and it does because she gets the opportunity of working for none other an man, whose sculptures have a reputation of their own.
Antoni Azarov doesn't just create sculptures, he brings to life the beauty that he sees while also silencing his inner demons that constantly fight to get out.
When they first meet, I was both scared and excited for Ona. Getting this opportunity meant so much for her while also not knowing whether she'll be approved by the man himself or not.
It gets all the more interesting when Ona finds the Master Sculptor himself being ensnared by her and when she's asked to be his muse for a model commissioned for the charity, things drastically begin to change between them.
There's an Intensity to the way Ona and Antoni connect and the way sparks keep flying between them, you can feel the raw chemistry between these two.
But Antoni's past is like a breathing entity that chains him, and only time will tell how he will be able to find freedom from his shackles.
I especially was feeling so pained by what happened to Antoni and really wish for that man to find his freedom from the mental prison that he was admitted to for no fault of his.
That ending though, Oh my... So nervous and scared for what will happen next after that horrific turn that happens out of nowhere.
There are also many questions that need answers and definitely the need to find out how Ona and Antoni will find their way to one another. ❤️❤️❤️
December 15, 2022
I received a copy of this ARC from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts are unbiased and my own. The reason I put that I read it as an ARC up front is because I adored this book so much that I did a little bit of a naughty thing and went straight on to reading the next book in the series because I apparently couldn’t even stop reading to write a review. I can’t quite put my finger on why I ate this book up the way I did, but obviously very much enjoyed it!
So Oblivion Black follows two artists, our main character Ona who is a heroin addicted art school dropout and Antoni, who is a famous artist nicknamed “the Hands of God” due to the sheer brilliance of his work. Ona lands a job as Antoni’s assistant and disturbing relationships develop alongside even more disturbing revelations about what created the man known as Antoni and his Hands of God.
The book lives up to its title, it’s a dark black with characters one might struggle to feel any amount of sympathy for without the deft touch of this author. I was also pleased with how both addicts and addiction were portrayed. Addition has been written like the ugly thing that it is but she’s written about it well without demonising the people who struggle with it. And now I shall gladly go jump back into the world of these characters once more!
So Oblivion Black follows two artists, our main character Ona who is a heroin addicted art school dropout and Antoni, who is a famous artist nicknamed “the Hands of God” due to the sheer brilliance of his work. Ona lands a job as Antoni’s assistant and disturbing relationships develop alongside even more disturbing revelations about what created the man known as Antoni and his Hands of God.
The book lives up to its title, it’s a dark black with characters one might struggle to feel any amount of sympathy for without the deft touch of this author. I was also pleased with how both addicts and addiction were portrayed. Addition has been written like the ugly thing that it is but she’s written about it well without demonising the people who struggle with it. And now I shall gladly go jump back into the world of these characters once more!
August 16, 2022
Christa Wojciechowski’s ‘Oblivion Black’ is a book that will take you on a rollercoaster that never stops. Most stories are predictable to an extent, but Wojciechowski’s novel swept me through the chapters leaving me utterly unable to guess what would come next, until I was slammed into an ending that I would never have imagined.
The writing is gritty but humorous, compassionate but never sentimental. The detail is visceral yet Wojciechowski is brilliant at invoking empathy. The character of Ona, a flawed artist, is beautifully drawn, and I was indeed drawn to her instantly, willing for her to stay away from drugs and to find her happy ending. Antoni, the damaged sculptor who captures her heart, is a charismatic and sexy male protagonist. Even Ona’s antagonist, Sonia, is brought to life in a way that makes us sympathise with her poor little rich girl struggles. When I stepped shaking off the emotional rollercoaster I was thrilled to discover that Ona’s story is not over.
Wojciechowski is a master of fast-paced writing, her prose precise and full of heart. Each character is unique and yet relatable, each scenario exhilarating. I know we will be seeing a lot more from this writer, and cannot wait for her next novel.
Sam Szanto, author of ‘If No One Speaks’
The writing is gritty but humorous, compassionate but never sentimental. The detail is visceral yet Wojciechowski is brilliant at invoking empathy. The character of Ona, a flawed artist, is beautifully drawn, and I was indeed drawn to her instantly, willing for her to stay away from drugs and to find her happy ending. Antoni, the damaged sculptor who captures her heart, is a charismatic and sexy male protagonist. Even Ona’s antagonist, Sonia, is brought to life in a way that makes us sympathise with her poor little rich girl struggles. When I stepped shaking off the emotional rollercoaster I was thrilled to discover that Ona’s story is not over.
Wojciechowski is a master of fast-paced writing, her prose precise and full of heart. Each character is unique and yet relatable, each scenario exhilarating. I know we will be seeing a lot more from this writer, and cannot wait for her next novel.
Sam Szanto, author of ‘If No One Speaks’
November 6, 2022
Wow. I literally just finished this book and loved it. I knew there was a second book and I was still shocked to see "This story isn't over!" at the end of this book. If you know me this shouldn't shock you. I could read all the spoilers and still be surprised.
This is the story of Ona. At the beginning of the story Ona overdoses and nearly dies. She's ripped away from her supplier and boyfriend and has to figure out a life of sobriety. She taps into her passion of art by getting a job with a local sculptor, Antoni, also known as "Hands of God." Ona quickly becomes Antoni's muse. Chaos ensues and past traumas make things complicated.
I don't know if growing up with an artist mother made me feel more connected to this story, or if it was just beautifully written, but I really loved the imagery of the details in this book.
It says book 2 is out in November 15, 2022 but I may have to track down this story on Kindle Vella to get a jump start. I really need to see what happens in book 2! Which means, this can not be read as a stand alone. You will want to see what's in store for book 2.
Thank you Book Sirens for the ARC! This is my honest review of Oblivion Black by Christa Wojciechowski.
This is the story of Ona. At the beginning of the story Ona overdoses and nearly dies. She's ripped away from her supplier and boyfriend and has to figure out a life of sobriety. She taps into her passion of art by getting a job with a local sculptor, Antoni, also known as "Hands of God." Ona quickly becomes Antoni's muse. Chaos ensues and past traumas make things complicated.
I don't know if growing up with an artist mother made me feel more connected to this story, or if it was just beautifully written, but I really loved the imagery of the details in this book.
It says book 2 is out in November 15, 2022 but I may have to track down this story on Kindle Vella to get a jump start. I really need to see what happens in book 2! Which means, this can not be read as a stand alone. You will want to see what's in store for book 2.
Thank you Book Sirens for the ARC! This is my honest review of Oblivion Black by Christa Wojciechowski.
June 1, 2025
I enjoyed reading this gothic fairytale story. This is a newer author for me which I enjoyed their ability to keep me engaged throughout the story with their attention to details. I found this book to be well written and hard to put down. They characters are creative, strong and connectable. I enjoyed what they added to the story and how they kept me wanting to know more. This is a thriller story that has suspense levels that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. There is great growth of the plot and characters throughout the story. I look forward to seeing more from this series and author. I highly recommend this book.
April 21, 2023
Edge of your seat dark romance that kept me invested.
As a reader, it was shocking how caught up into this book. Set in the real world and dealing with the complications of addiction, obsession, love, fear, trauma and jealousy, and the hard road to recovery for all those involved. When does something you love teeter on the edge of addiction?
This is a dark romance with many different layers to it. I am definitely going to read book 2 to see how it all ends because I HAVE to know.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As a reader, it was shocking how caught up into this book. Set in the real world and dealing with the complications of addiction, obsession, love, fear, trauma and jealousy, and the hard road to recovery for all those involved. When does something you love teeter on the edge of addiction?
This is a dark romance with many different layers to it. I am definitely going to read book 2 to see how it all ends because I HAVE to know.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 5, 2022
This book was so good and would definitely recommend this. This story has a a lot of depth and I thought the characters were well written and had a lot of depth behind them - which I really appreciate in a story.
Can't wait to see what this author does next!
As a note, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Can't wait to see what this author does next!
As a note, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 14, 2022
The book was very well written and an excellent piece of art, the author really painted a picture within ones mind. However, I enjoy face paced books with lots of action, and this wasn’t that. The only reason this book did not receive five stars from me is because it was kind of triggering and it was slow.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 31, 2025
A book of dark unrequited twisted love. Truly beautiful. Deep passionate and layer by layer you will be transcended into their world. Beautifully done. Emotional and tense i could not put this book down. I would watch this movie. My artistic hopeless romantic soul is screaming for the rest of this series and anything else this author wants to write.
June 1, 2025
She nearly died after an overdose and she needs to get clean. Her life will change when she meets him and he may help reawaken her love for art. It will get complicated when a wife decides they want him and his dark secrets come into the open. See where it will all lead to
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and is a great read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and is a great read
October 7, 2025
A resplendent masterful tale, I could not put it down! The depth of characters are so expertly relayed, I became a reading addict devouring every titillating morsel. I am very glad there are still two more books in the series to continue my reading dopamine hit. Christa Wojciechowski undeniably is a literary genius with the hands of a goddess!
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