Before I read Andrew Martin's novel Down Time, I read an article in The Atlantic that compared the characters to the annoying bunch on Seinfeld. Since I love Seinfeld and have watched the show over and over, the novel intrigued me. Lily Meyer's review was correct; Malcolm, Aaron, Cassandra and Antonia, are all irritating, but also oddly engrossing.
Down Time is set before, during and after Covid. The foursome are 30 somethings who all have problems. They are all entitled and somewhat obnoxious. Still, somehow Andrew Martin draws you in and keeps you interested in their lives. There is alcoholism, lack of ambition, sexual escapades and ambiguity, and lots of self-absorption. I felt kind of guilty wanting to read about these folks. I didn't really like any of them, but I couldn't put the book down.
I am perplexed by my reaction to their stories. I know we have had discussions about unlikeable characters. If anyone else reads this, I'd like to know if you also found yourself following the characters lives with interest, mixed with a feeling of distaste. If so...you might also be a Seinfeld fan.
Here is The Atlantic review: https://www.theatlantic.com/books/2026/03/down-time-andrew-martin-pandemic-novel-review/686455/
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