Going Down (A Virago V) : Book Review

"Going Down" by Jennifer Belle is a delightful and captivating novel that follows the adventures of Bennington Bloom, a young woman navigating her way through the trials and tribulations of life in New York City. The story kicks off with Bennington losing her job at a prestigious art gallery, which forces her to take a gig as an elevator operator in a luxurious building. Little does she know, this new job will lead her down a path filled with unforeseen twists and turns, as she finds herself tangled up in romantic entanglements, scandalous secrets, and uproarious encounters.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in Belle's ability to create vivid and relatable characters. Bennington, with all her flaws and quirks, quickly becomes an endearing protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for her, even when she makes questionable choices. The supporting cast, including the eccentric fellow elevator operators and the quirky building tenants, add depth and humor to the narrative, making it all the more enjoyable.

Belle's writing style is another standout aspect of the book. She effortlessly blends witty dialogue and astute observations about the absurdities of modern life. The humor in the novel is both light-hearted and satirical, making it a perfect choice for readers who appreciate comedic fiction.

Beyond its entertainment value, "Going Down" also delves into deeper themes, like the pressures of societal expectations and the search for one's identity and purpose. Through Bennington's various experiences and encounters, the novel offers valuable insights into the complexities of adulthood and the eternal quest to find one's place in the world.

In conclusion, "Going Down" is a highly enjoyable and thought-provoking novel that seamlessly fuses humor, romance, and a dash of intrigue. Jennifer Belle's sharp writing and memorable characters make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a fun and engaging literary escapade set against the backdrop of bustling New York City.

What are readers saying?

The novel "Going Down" by Jennifer Belle has received a variety of reviews, with opinions being divided among readers. Some praise the book for its witty and humorous writing style, while others criticize the characters for being shallow and unrelatable.

Many reviewers appreciate Jennifer Belle's clever and satirical writing style, finding it to be engaging and entertaining. They particularly enjoy the humorous and witty dialogue between the characters, often leading to moments of laughter. Belle's writing is often described as sharp and quick-witted, adding depth and charm to the story.

However, some reviewers were disappointed with the characters in "Going Down," finding them unsympathetic and lacking depth. The main character, Bennington Bloom, especially seemed to lack development, making it difficult for readers to connect with her. Additionally, the supporting characters were criticized for being exaggerated stereotypes, rather than well-rounded individuals.

Opinions on the plot were also divided among readers. Some found it engaging and enjoyed the comedic situations that Bennington found herself in. They appreciated the appropriate pacing and entertaining plot twists. On the other hand, some readers felt that the plot was predictable and lacked substance, leaving them uninterested and disengaged.

The themes explored in "Going Down" also received mixed reviews. Some readers appreciated the exploration of topics such as female empowerment, friendship, and the challenges faced by modern women. They found the social commentary thought-provoking and enjoyed the book's feminist undertones. However, others felt that the novel failed to delve deep enough into these themes, missing an opportunity to provide profound insights.

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