Doorman Wanted

by Glenn R. Miller

"...gem of a novel..." -Lorna Landvik, Last Circle of Love

"...beautifully written story..." -Robert Alexander, The Kitchen Boy

"... deft touch of a master storyteller..." -Greg Fields, Through the Waters and the Wild

"An entertaining debut." -Sarah Stonich, Vacationland

Henry Franken has a problem with money-he has too much of it. When his unprincipled father dies, thirty-three-year-old Henry inherits a massive estate, including an Upper East Side residential building. He must confront the reality of his new financial status, directly conflicting with his well-honed identity as a "progressive liberal." When he shows up to collect the keys to his father's building, he notices a "Doorman Wanted." Seeing a chance to stave off the complexities of his inheritance, Henry applies for the position under a pseudonym . . . and gets it. Now, no one in the building knows that Doorman "Franklin Hanratty" is the building's new mysterious owner.

Through interactions with residents and the homeless outside his door, Henry develops from an idealistic young person avoiding the demands of his fortune, into a man who accepts the opportunity to direct that wealth toward a broader good.

Genres: Fiction, Book Club, Humor, Audiobook, Contemporary

352 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 26, 2024

About the author

Glenn Miller launched his professional career by working on television soap operas and game shows on the back lots of NBC Burbank. He holds a master’s degree from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism and has served as a CBS-affiliate news producer, an executive speechwriter, and creative director at production agencies within the Twin Cities. His novel, Doorman Wanted, will be published on March 26, 2024.

Reviews

[boxer_dogs_dance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Humor in a book can be a tricky thing. One person will smile. Someone else will laugh. Someone else will find the content sophomoric and too obvious.

This book worked for me. The situations derived naturally from the premise. There were wry ironic observations. There were ridiculous combinations of circumstances that followed logically from the progress of the plot. Like a Shakespearean comedy, all comes right at the end.

A young man inherits a building and a penthouse. He impersonates a job applicant and gets hired as a doorman. Everything else follows. It's light entertainment that is hopeful, not cynical.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book. I wish I could remember who suggested it to me. Such a great subject. Being rich, and pretending that you are not. Being the doorman… learning about people.
I many times read about the author before I start reading the book, this time I didn’t. What a great surprise to read in the acknowledgment that he had studied at Minneapolis Loft Literacy center. And that he lives in Minneapolis! That is where I live also!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, what a fun read!

Doorman Wanted takes us along the journey of Henry Franken, whom we meet shortly after the passing of his very affluent father, who has left him everything. When he goes to sign the paperwork to accept his newly acquired Upper East Side building and penthouse apartment, he sees a sign in the window: Doorman Wanted. None too interested in his family's wealth, he chooses to accept this as a sign to instead apply for the job, and keeps his true identity hidden from the residents and employees.

What transpires is a witty, humorous and well-written story that leads us through life as Franklin Hanratty, a doorman imposter. We are introduced to several quirky, fun and interesting residents along with some wild co-workers.

Throughout his role as doorman, Henry/Franklin meets and befriends a few homeless artists which in turn places him on a quest to provide them with better opportunities in the world of art, and thus life.

Although I feel like this book doesn't have a very clear plotline, the way it's written just somehow works. I really liked engaging with each individual character, and getting to follow along with their daily adventures. Everyone had very different personalities and I enjoyed getting to know them all.

What I didn't love, was the ending of Wendy's storyline. It was completely fine until she finds out who Franklin truly is, and in my opinion, completely overreacts. (Ok pot, let's call the kettle black, shall we?) But then just basically acts like nothing happened? It was strange, and I just didn't get it, I guess.

I also wish there was a bit more of a reaction written amongst the residents when they learned the truth about Franklin/Henry. It seems like it was just kind of glazed over a bit, and slightly disappointing.

Overall though, this was an excellent story that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Especially for a debut novel! I would absolutely love to read a sequel, so that we can continue getting to know all the characters and continue on this journey with them. Perhaps a storyline from Charlotte's perspective?

*Thank you to NetGalley, Glenn R. Miller and Koehler Books for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

[Angie Conley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a literary crush on Glenn Miller. He develops a playful narrative with a sense of humor that is engaging and draws in the reader, moving you quickly along the storyline. I enjoyed the many personalities I met, from those who live in the swanky upper east side apartment to the friends the doorman, Franklin, meets on the street. It all comes together with a clever metaphor for life that left me smiling and hoping for a sequel. Bravo!

[Thomas Conley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a marvelous novel. Engaging and well drawn characters, sharp observations about society, and a playful use of language that makes it a treat to read. Do yourself a favor and read or listen to this book! I promise that you will not be disappointed.

[Nan · Rating 1 out of 5]

A thirty-something man inherits millions and a fancy Upper East Side condo building from his estranged, recently deceased father. When he reluctantly returns to NY he walks into the building, is mistaken for the new doorman, and accepts the position. Well, okay. What follows is a tale of stereotypical characters, obvious lessons (be honest, care about homeless people, money isn’t everything, etc.) and worst of all, some of the most hackneyed dialogue I’ve ever come across. I finally started skimming so I could see if the ending made it all worthwhile. Nope. There’s lots of love from other readers for this book, but a hard pass from me.

[Lauren Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book. I loved every single minute in these pages.
Imagine my disappointment when I thought "I need to read more of this man's books" then discover there is no more....yet.
So a message to Glenn R Miller....hurry up and write more!!
Tomata and Terry I loved you guys. Hoping Cadillac is going ok.

[Neil Crocker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Creative, witty, fast moving and very satisfying. Makes you think, but not too hard. A very enjoyable read.

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating

A work of humor, life lessons, humility and desire for life. Haven't we all wished we could live life differently for a short time to find ourselves.

[Jelan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The premise is pretty implausible but once you suspend your disbelief, it’s an entertaining, heartwarming ride.

[Jon Koebrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Doorman Wanted is a feel good read. The characters are fun and both the vocabulary and phrasing were treats. There is a satisfying fantasy element to a doorman actually being the wealthy building owner. Recommended for readers who enjoy a story where a wealthy person wants to help others in a non-conspicuous manner. 4 stars.

[Caroline Rybicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

A clever and refreshingly original storyline, unlike any I’ve read! Full of wit and empathy, this book will leave you both feeling good and turning the pages.

Henry is a young man whose life changes course when he receives a generous inheritance, including a massive estate, after his father suddenly passes. As he is left to face a lifelong moral struggle with the source of the wealth, he hides in plain sight as the doorman and becomes engrained in the community of the residential building, L’Hermitage. The residents adore him as do the two homeless artists he befriends when he chooses to see them as humans, rather than pests, and offers a cup of coffee. Henry’s kindness and openness to these two will make you question the stereotypes we have around various social classes and will make you want to strip people of all of their qualifiers to see them simply for who they are.

Glenn’s ability to make you feel Henry’s journey will suck you into the world within the covers of the “Doorman Wanted” - truly a gift, a must read!

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Might just be the best read of the year. An absolutely delightfully spun tale that had me absorbed from the first page. What an incredible debut novel. Cannot wait to see what’s next from Glenn R Miller!

[Jane MacAlpine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A different style novel than I would generally read but it was recommended to me. I truly enjoyed it! it was very well written, very funny at times, and also uplifting.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars rounded up to 5.

[Alex Hlava · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars rounded up. A cute easy read.

[Cat Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars is a very high rating from me but I had to give it because this was such an enjoyable read! Fresh, irreverent, and FUNNY - I was laughing out loud. It's a wild slice of life on the Upper East Side, with characters so quirky they feel like my neighbors. The writing is sharp, the humor's spot-on, and i enjoyed my subway commute so much more while I was reading this book with its humor coupled with gritty NYC glam.

[Kim Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so happy (and relieved) to start off the new year with a five-star book! First of all, and most important on my list of favorite styles, is that this is written in first person.

Next up, the writing is vocabulary-lush, the setting and character descriptions flow seamlessly rather than distracting (so many authors seem to go overboard, describing almost as a sub-plot), and the characters are--well, characters--there's humor, both subtle and not-so-subtle. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing where the story would take me.

Halfway into the book, I wondered when a movie--or even a streamed series--would be announced, because I could easily see it happening!

[Chris Block · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love a feel-good story with quirky characters. Gives readers some insight into homelessness, wealth, New York City life, empathy, community, art, and kindness. Great read!

[Maggie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Probably more like a 3.5 - this book was a cute story and I enjoyed the plot and characters. I think my higher ratings generally go to books that engage me a little more emotionally.

[Derrick Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Glenn R. Miller’s Doorman Wanted is a funny and heartfelt exploration of identity, privilege, and human connection, based in my own back yard of NYC’s Upper East Side. The story follows Henry Franken, a reluctant heir to his late father’s real estate empire, who assumes the alias Franklin Hanratty to work as a doorman in one of his own buildings. This whimsical premise sets the stage for a rich tapestry of characters and relationships that make the book both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Miller excels in character development, particularly with Henry/Franklin and his colleagues—Terry, Tomata, Charlotte, Jacob, Mr. Harrison, and Wendy—each of whom brings charm and depth to the story. The interactions between Franklin and the building’s tenants, as well as his friendships with a group of homeless artists, add layers of humor and poignancy. These relationships highlight themes of class disparity and the power of compassion without veering into sentimentality.

The narrative’s progression is engaging, with moments of comedy interspersed with deeper reflections on wealth and identity. However, one notable drawback is the inconsistent handling of time transitions between chapters. It can be challenging to gauge how much time passes over the course of the story, which slightly detracts from its pacing. Additionally, while the Upper East Side serves as an iconic setting, more vivid exploration of the neighborhood’s nuances could have enriched the novel further.

Overall, Doorman Wanted is a delightful debut that balances wit and warmth. Despite minor flaws in pacing and setting depth, Miller’s ability to craft memorable characters and an uplifting narrative makes this book a worthwhile read for fans of quirky literary fiction.

[Annie J (The History Solarium Book Club) · Rating 3 out of 5]

A newly inherited (yet, undesired) fortune presents a young man with the difficult task of trying to figure out what to do with his new status. Doorman Wanted by Glenn R. Miller kicks off with a creative premise, immediately setting the stage for a unique exploration of wealth and identity. The novel follows Henry Franken, a progressive liberal suddenly burdened by his unprincipled father's vast estate. To escape the complexities of his new financial status and reconcile it with his carefully constructed identity, Henry takes on a doorman position in his own Upper East Side building under a pseudonym. Readers get to know Henry aka Franklin through his interactions with residents and the homeless community outside. While the opening concept was inventive, I found it took a surprisingly long time for the narrative to fully engage my interest. However, I appreciated how it thoughtfully addressed significant societal challenges, such as issues of access, homelessness, and privilege. The book is marked as humor, but it wasn't a laugh-out-loud funny experience for me. Still, I enjoyed the witty lines scattered throughout.

Recommended for: Readers seeking a unique and thought-provoking story that blends contemporary social issues with a touch of lightheartedness, and those who appreciate subtle wit over overt comedy.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love fun, quirky, "slice of life" novels and Doorman Wanted is exactly that! The characters were charming and witty, making for an enjoyable relaxing reading experience. The ending left me a bit underwhelmed when Franklin/Henry revealed his true identity, and I was also annoyed by the third act break-up, even though it was short-lived (on page, that is). For those reasons I am rating it 4 stars. Bravo to Glenn R. Miller for a delightful debut!

Thank you to NetGalley and Koehler Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Bob Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!!

The characters were so much fun. Thoroughly enjoyed, I smiled as I read the story. Cannot wait for your next book.

[Maureen Mahowald · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is one of the few books that would likely be better as a movie. Its strength is in the humorous characters. The plot line is thin.

[Carolyn Leyboldt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book!! I read it at a time when finding there is still good in this world, took the edge off what’s really happening. Well written, relatable characters and very positive!!

[David Schwinghammer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was surprised to see that author Glenn R. Miller had a connection with the Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis. I was a participant there as well.

Miller came up with an excellent idea when he has his major character Henry Franklin take a doorman’s position at an exclusive apartment building in New York City. Henry had actually inherited the building in his father’s will but wanted to remain anonymous until he got the lay of the land, so to speak. Henry takes on the alias of “Franklin” and develops personal relationships with some of the inhabitants as well as some street people.

The street people turn out to be artists. Terry and Tomato go on a date with Franklin and Wendy who lives in one of the apartments. They help interpret some of the paintings. When Franklin learns Terry doesn’t have the money to purchase some of the paints he tries to give him money, but Terry is to proud to take it.

Eventually a jeweler leaves the retail space in the building and Franklin attempts to help the street people by opening a gallery for them. Terry has already gifted him with one of his paintings, and Franklin thinks it’s excellent. Franklin needs permission from the residents and they hold a vote.

Charlotte, the manager of the building is a sort of villain. She warns Franklin to stay away from the street people. We’re expecting an eventual confrontation if and when Henry reveals himself. Judith Guncheon serves as a financial advisor for Henry. She knows he’s really the owner of the building and was expecting Henry to report to her; instead he takes the doorman opening. She wants him to reveal himself.

I had some trouble accepting the premise of street people as artists. Certainly it’s hard for artists to make it in our society, but I don’t know any who are homeless, especially a group of them who live in the park. But Franklin is certainly believable as a doorman, and it’s reasonable that a doorman would develop friendly relations with the people who live there, even if they are wealthy.

Residents pop in and out of the book, but they’re not as eccentric as one might expect. They’re just what you’d expect from rich people. The only weirdos are the doormen. There are a couple of others besides Franklin.

[Anjana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes I choose books that don’t give away much, either on their cover and/ or their blurb. Most of the time I come away dissatisfied but I continue to do it anyway. As I was one chapter into the book, I was glad I took a chance because I loved this book.

The plot itself is not too unique, it’s been a central movie theme a couple of times. It is the presentation and the writing style that I had the most fun with. There are rambling incoherent conversations that are on the positive side of entertaining. People who read such books know what a thin line exists between the positive and the negative of such a style.

Henry Franken does not like to be associated with his father’s wealth and his ethical dilemmas have put him at odds with his father. When the latter dies and leaves all that wealth to him, Henry is unsure as to how to proceed. As he approaches the building which he now owns, he sees a Doorman Wanted sign and that’s when an idea strikes him. The rest of the plot is how he manages the balance between the two characters and what he learns on the way.


Found families are depicted in several ways. The subtle way that this sneaks up on Henry is quite interesting and the overall book had me chuckling while simultaneously being emotional at times. Overall I would highly recommend this book to people who like these kinds of stories. I would definitely want to read anything else the author writes next.

I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

[Anna Hayes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was exactly what I needed to get my reading routine back on track. A wonderfully quirky and charming read, 'Doorman Wanted' tells the story of Henry who assumes the identity of a doorman named Franklin who is, in fact, the owner of a very exclusive New York apartment building.
The novel, which is Glenn Miller's debut, reminded me a lot of Andrew Sean Greer's Pulitzer-winning 'Less' - a likable, charming protagonist, feeling a bit wayward in his life and undertaking something different in order to figure out what or where he needs to be.
Miller weaves a host of characters through the pages, from elderly socialites to a bunch of colourful homeless artists, whom Franklin befriends and who carry a large part of the main plot. In the wrong hands, and with a different type of protagonist, this plotline could have read as shmaltzy virtue signalling. But Miller's writing, and the wonderfully drawn character of Franklin help to elevate it beyond that.
I think perhaps we don't get as much insight as we should in relation to Franklin's unwillingness toward his inheritance, and I think the conclusion of the novel is slightly too convenient but, you know what? Sometimes you want to sit down with a charming book that makes you smile and laugh, and this is certainly that book.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doorman Wanted Audiobook

By Glenn R. Miller
Narrated by: Glenn R. Miller

Outstanding, entertaining, and fistpumping good!

Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 05-02-24

When Henry Franken strolls into the manager’s office of his recently inherited condominium building announcing “I’m here for the building” … Charlotte, thinking the employment agency sent him to fill the open doorman position, hands him a form to fill out! Henry, completely unprepared to take over his new responsibilities, grabs the lifeline … uh form, makes up an assumed name and … seals his immediate fate! Brilliantly narrated by the author, and featuring a stellar, character driven plot, “Doorman Wanted” is a beautifully done, throughly enjoyable, wonderful treat! The characters are unique, beautifully developed and kept busy by shenanigans a plenty! I laughed, I sighed, and I LOVED every single minute of this fabulously entertaining audiobook! THIS is the kind of story I’ll listen to time, and time again. Five fantastic, brilliant, beautiful stars! This one has it ALL!