Mongoose Holly

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Wetlands by Charlotte Roche is marketed and described as erotic literature or even thinly veiled pornography. Honestly, this is why I bought it! I read that it was so extreme that at public readings women had fainted in shock. I wanted own a book that was that sexy.

I do not own a book that is that sexy. Wetlands is the story of Helen Memel, an 18 year old girl who, due to an accident in shaving her pubic hair, must spend a period of time in the proctology ward of her local hospital.

The story is well written with good insights into the main characters life. The back story of the family is handled sensitively and keeps the reader interested, however it feels unfinished. To me the story feels like it needs the confrontation and the reactions at the end but everything is left trailing off. Perhaps there is a sequel planned and the story line alone would make me consider buying a sequel.

However, the bulk of the story is the authors attempt to shock and appall her readers. I have a pretty strong stomach but even as I think of certain parts of this book I feel queasy. If you can stand the graphic descriptions of sexual practices and how Helen deals with her wound then this book can make a pretty interesting read.

However if i ever meet someone who is turned on by this book, I will probably throw up right there. It is NOT an erotic novel.