I think you are right that he was unable to change the presidents mind. I noticed he became bolder and bolder the more his advice was rejected.
I do think our president wanted all kinds of opinions but I think he was blindsided when Bolton went became openly hostile to the other members of the team.
Like I said ... Bolton wasn't there to ADVISE the President. He was there to INFLUENCE him. And that's not supposed to be the purpose of the National Security Advisor.