Going Down

"Going Down" is more than a story about a call girl. This book is very well written and multi-layered. On the surface, you have the story of college student Bennington becoming a call girl, and all that ensues. This makes for an interesting read, and I was engaged, getting a glimpse into Benny's life, her experiences as a call girl and her days in the brothel, which were both humorous and sad. Jennifer Belle is very, very funny, and sharp-witted. What I love about her writing style is that she makes her lead characters uncensored in what they think and say. The sub-stories of this book concern women's roles and self-esteem, sex and love, and the dynamics and power within relationships between men and women, particularly Benny's with her father. There is an interesting exchange between Benny and one client who is utterly conflicted (...). The novel is well thought-out, and every event, large and small, is connected and tied up by the finish, which I appreciate. There's nothing that feels false, the characters are very interesting and multi-faceted, and I found the book to be a very satisfying read.

*It's naughty*. You get a peek into a bad girl's life and it's a pretty good time. I wish I could find more books like it!!! (sad news is- I wasn't so hot for her next book, High maintenance, it wasn't as fun.)

Finally--a young author with actual talent. I was beginning to think that her generation of writers was doomed. I rarely get emotional over ficitional characters, but Bennington was so sad and funny and brilliant that I couldn't put the book down. I agree with Jay McInerny. This novel was a gem. I can't wait for her next one.