Books Like...

The novel 'Hotel Honolulu' by Paul Theroux follows the story of a disenchanted writer who takes on the role of a resident manager at a vintage hotel in Waikiki, filled with eccentric characters and bizarre tales. The book provides a glimpse into Honolulu's fading glory, portraying the interactions between guests and locals, as well as the challenges faced by those dealing with tourists. Through humorous and raunchy storytelling, the narrator navigates through the quirky world of the hotel, observing the unique personalities and situations that unfold within its walls.

The writing style of 'Hotel Honolulu' captures the essence of human behavior with a non-judgmental approach, exposing imperfect characters with compassion and humor. Paul Theroux's expansive prose delves into the complexities of life in Honolulu, blending humor, historical information, and vivid character descriptions to keep readers engaged from cover to cover.

Heads in Beds: A Reckless Memoir of Hotels, Hustles, and So-Called Hospitality by Jacob Tomsky is an inside look at the hotel industry through the eyes of a former hotel employee who worked his way up from valet to housekeeping manager. The book delves into the behind-the-scenes workings of hotels, sharing stories about hotel guests, extraneous charges, dirty laundry, mini bars, tipping etiquette, and how to navigate the world of hospitality to receive excellent service. Tomsky's writing style is described as humorous, irreverent, and conversational, providing readers with an entertaining and eye-opening glimpse into the world of luxury hotels.

Edith Hope, a romance writer, finds herself at the Hotel du Lac in Switzerland, sent away by friends to reflect on her recent scandalous behavior. The book delves into Edith's observations of the other guests at the hotel, her internal struggles, and her journey towards making a life-changing decision. Anita Brookner's writing style is described as exquisite, introspective, and evocative, focusing on the musings of the protagonist and the interactions with the eccentric characters she encounters.

'Airport' by Arthur Hailey is a thrilling novel set in Lincoln International Airport during a major snowstorm. The story follows the airport manager, a prestigious pilot, a flight attendant, and an air traffic controller as they navigate personal and aviation dramas. The book is praised for its detailed and accurate portrayal of airport life, filled with nerdy technical details that immerse readers in the world of aviation. Despite some predictable plot points and hokey storylines, the book is well-structured, meticulously researched, and keeps readers engaged with its fast-paced narrative.

'The Hotel Nantucket' by Elin Hilderbrand is a charming summer read set in a renovated hotel in Nantucket. The story revolves around a diverse group of characters, including a friendly ghost haunting the hotel, adding a touch of supernatural element to the plot. Readers are transported to the picturesque location of Nantucket, where romance, mystery, humor, and secrets intertwine to create an engaging storyline that keeps readers hooked. The book also delves into historical fiction, exploring a suspicious death of a chambermaid in a tragic hotel fire, intertwining past and present narratives seamlessly.

The Grand Babylon Hotel is an old-fashioned mystery set in Edwardian England, featuring a cast of interesting characters including an American millionaire, his daughter, European minor nobility, eminences, and despicable villains. The plot is described as charming, approachable, and fast-paced, with a surprisingly modern strong and smart female protagonist. The story involves murder, kidnap, and a foreign prince, playing out like a John Buchan novel, making it a gripping and entertaining read.

"Last Summer at the Golden Hotel" by Elyssa Friedland is a charming tale that follows the intertwined lives of the Goldman and Weingold families, owners of the Golden Hotel in the Catskills. The novel explores the family dynamics, memories, and struggles faced by these families as they come together to make the difficult decision of whether to sell the hotel, which has been a longstanding legacy in their lives. Set in the 1960s, the story captures the essence of a bygone era and the nostalgia of a once-thriving resort now facing decline.

The narrative is rich in character development, offering different perspectives that provide insight into the various generations of the families and their connections to the hotel. As the families grapple with the decision of the hotel's future, themes of legacy, family ties, and the passage of time are intricately woven into the plot, creating a heartwarming and engaging story that resonates with readers.

'Hotel Paradise' in the Emma Graham series by Martha Grimes follows the story of a 12-year-old girl who delves into solving a local cold case crime in an ambiguous era reminiscent of the 40s or 50s. The plot unfolds slowly, focusing on the character development and details of the setting, creating a dreamy and contemplative atmosphere. Despite the mystery being a central theme, the book also explores themes of fate, resignation, and hope, leaving readers with a bittersweet taste.

The writing style in 'Hotel Paradise' is described as excellent, with interesting subject matter and a unique approach to storytelling that captures the reader's attention. The author, Martha Grimes, intricately weaves together a narrative that builds suspense gradually, making the story engaging and enjoyable. is character-driven, with a focus on the protagonist's perspective and insights, adding depth to the overall reading experience.

The Pink Hotel by Liska Jacobs revolves around a newly married couple, Keith and Kit, who are invited to spend their honeymoon at a luxurious hotel, which turns out to be more than just a romantic getaway. Set against the backdrop of wildfires in Los Angeles, the story unfolds with chaotic events, exposing the lives of the wealthy guests and the staff at the hotel. The author's writing style intricately weaves together themes of wealth, greed, and the complexities of relationships, creating a captivating narrative that explores the absurdity of the ultra-rich lifestyle.

The novel delves into the experiences of Kit and Keith as they navigate the extravagant yet tumultuous world of The Pink Hotel, uncovering hidden truths and facing challenges that test their marriage. With a mix of humor, satire, and symbolism, the book offers a unique perspective on societal issues and personal growth, making readers question the true meaning of wealth and privilege amidst a backdrop of natural and man-made disasters.