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Didn’t Like It “This book did not have much going for it to make for an interesting read. Nothing hung together too well. Perhaps the author missed his deadline for finishing it and simply decided not to as some kind of plot device? Lame.” see full review » see other reviews » |
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“This book did not have much going for it to make for an interesting read. Nothing hung together too well. Perhaps the author missed his deadline for finishing it and simply decided not to as some kind of plot device? Lame.”
Heather I wrote this review Monday, August 4 2008. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
“In Willing we meet a hapless freelance writer named Avery who has suffered greatly at the expense of the women in his life. His mother married four times—giving Avery her husband’s last name each time, at least one abusive father, and an abhorrence of long-term relationships. His much-younger girlfriend slept with a Russian grad student because he was Russian and, as a Russian Studies major, she needed that experience. And the women on the International Sex Tour he’s received complimentary tickets to attend can’t seem to understand that Avery just wants to talk. Despite a deep depression, considerable financial anxiety, and a gaping wound on the side of his head, this strange writer cannot help but reflect upon the enticing minutia around him and their overarching, philosophical import. From the sounds and sites perceived by a desperately lonely man discovering the New York City streets at 4 a.m. to the newfound courage and power of a pencil-wielding wimp-turned-hero in the frigid depths of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, the engaging details can captivate this novel’s reader. Clearly, Spencer has a good understanding of human motivations and follies. Yet, the story is strange and lurid. It’s an easy read, with great pacing and a compelling plot. But it all comes together in one disappointing and disjointed ending. Loose ends miraculously disappear with unlikely occurrences and convenient plot fixers. Willing might shock you with its tale of debasement and debauchery and its lucid exploration of the rights and wrongs of the sex trade, but, in the end, it presents little more substance than rouge on a prostitute. Although I enjoyed parts of this novel, I’m not willing to recommend it.”
Jennifer H wrote this review Monday, August 11 2008. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
“Boring, slow and a big waste of time.”
read a lot wrote this review Tuesday, June 17 2008. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
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