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The Night Porter
Set in a hotel, in November, in the fictional town of Wheatley Fields, (based on Southwell, near Nottinghamshire, deep in Sherwood Forest).
Four writers, all nominated for an upcoming awards ceremony, come to stay.
One mega successful romance author, a top US thriller writer who sells in seven figures, a beautiful young YA tyro on the brink of world wide stardom...
...and a degenerate, nasty, bitter, jealous, trollish, drunken (but brilliant), self-published contemporary fiction author.
The Night Porter is instructed by a secretive and powerful awards committee to look after their EVERY need, to ensure they make it through the two weeks to attend the ceremony. At the same time as keeping an eye on their wishes, antics, fights, relationships and never-ending ego explosions. And trying desperately to avoid getting involved himself.
It's a comedy drama about writers (and Night Porters!) with twists and turns, nooks and crannies, shadows and mirrors.
I don't think you will see an Indie published book like this anywhere in Cyberspace.
Probably not a tradpubbed one either.
It casts a sometimes shadowy light on modern publishing, the writing business - and the people in it. Writers who like to read about writers and writing will enjoy the book as will readers who enjoy innovative, clever and multi-layered fiction.
Four writers, all nominated for an upcoming awards ceremony, come to stay.
One mega successful romance author, a top US thriller writer who sells in seven figures, a beautiful young YA tyro on the brink of world wide stardom...
...and a degenerate, nasty, bitter, jealous, trollish, drunken (but brilliant), self-published contemporary fiction author.
The Night Porter is instructed by a secretive and powerful awards committee to look after their EVERY need, to ensure they make it through the two weeks to attend the ceremony. At the same time as keeping an eye on their wishes, antics, fights, relationships and never-ending ego explosions. And trying desperately to avoid getting involved himself.
It's a comedy drama about writers (and Night Porters!) with twists and turns, nooks and crannies, shadows and mirrors.
I don't think you will see an Indie published book like this anywhere in Cyberspace.
Probably not a tradpubbed one either.
It casts a sometimes shadowy light on modern publishing, the writing business - and the people in it. Writers who like to read about writers and writing will enjoy the book as will readers who enjoy innovative, clever and multi-layered fiction.
- GenresEbooks
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2014
2 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Mark Barry
9 books129 followersMark Barry, author of Hollywood Shakedown, the highly acclaimed Carla and the top selling Ultra-Violence, is a writer and publisher based in Nottingham and Southwell. He writes extensively on a variety of topics including, horseracing, football, personality disorders and human relationships, but most recently, he writes about life in Nottingham and monitors closely its ever changing face.
Mark has been interviewed on several Radio chat shows where he has given readings of his work. His writing has been featured in the national press, and he has also been interviewed on television.
Mark resides in Southwell, Nottinghamshire and has one son, Matthew.
Mark has been interviewed on several Radio chat shows where he has given readings of his work. His writing has been featured in the national press, and he has also been interviewed on television.
Mark resides in Southwell, Nottinghamshire and has one son, Matthew.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 12, 2015
The Night Porter is comedic, dramatic and most of all incredibly entertaining. We are introduced to 'The Night Porter' who is a hardworking man so completely devoted to his job, he is only referred to by his title and above all he values his crucial dedication to the smooth running of The Saladin Inn.
When the Arkwright Literary Awards decide to pay for 4 of their shortlisted authors, Amy, Jo, Frank and Julian, to stay in The Saladin for two weeks, it is the Night Porters duty to ensure their every need is met. Though his charm and small talk welcomes the guests graciously, no amount of polite smiles could lower tensions between the authors themselves. We witness the Night Porter falter in his professionalism as he experiences attraction towards guests, an obvious disliking towards a colleague and inconspicuously tries to unearth the past cause of Amy and Julian's blatent hatred towards each other.
As the awards loom and nerves rise, a sudden tragedy befalls one of the authors and the carefully organised awards night seems to be crumbling into pieces. We follow the Night Porter as he struggles to do what he usually does best- maintain order.
Mark Barry has managed to not only blend laughter and suspense so well into one story but also creates vivid characters and enthralling dilemmas. This book lacks nothing but it's own literary award and overall was a delightful read.
When the Arkwright Literary Awards decide to pay for 4 of their shortlisted authors, Amy, Jo, Frank and Julian, to stay in The Saladin for two weeks, it is the Night Porters duty to ensure their every need is met. Though his charm and small talk welcomes the guests graciously, no amount of polite smiles could lower tensions between the authors themselves. We witness the Night Porter falter in his professionalism as he experiences attraction towards guests, an obvious disliking towards a colleague and inconspicuously tries to unearth the past cause of Amy and Julian's blatent hatred towards each other.
As the awards loom and nerves rise, a sudden tragedy befalls one of the authors and the carefully organised awards night seems to be crumbling into pieces. We follow the Night Porter as he struggles to do what he usually does best- maintain order.
Mark Barry has managed to not only blend laughter and suspense so well into one story but also creates vivid characters and enthralling dilemmas. This book lacks nothing but it's own literary award and overall was a delightful read.
February 28, 2015
What a different kind of book this was! Based on a "Night Porter" whose perspective on life is about to change radically by the arrival of four authors nominated for prestigious writing awards.
Amy - bestselling author of romantic fiction.
Frank - author of highly acclaimed thrillers.
Jo - young exciting writer of YA.
And last, but not least, Frank - self-published (practically unknown) writer of contemporary fiction.
I have to admit that at first I found this difficult to get into. I personally don't drink (rarely ever) or smoke and the constant mention of alcohol and smoking put me off. This is a personal dislike of course. It did help to set the tone for these characters and I think this was why I did not like them much at first. BUT, as you read on you start to understand that there is a lot more going on behind the scenes.
This is not just about an award ceremony! Truthfully, I had no idea what was coming and I will give no spoilers.
These are the thing you have to bear in mind...
Who is paying for Frank to stay at the hotel? Apparently, everyone hates him and what he represents.
Why does Amy come across so broken? She is a huge author about to perhaps win a major award after all.
Is Jo as nice as she seems?
Are Frank and Amy having an affair in the dark of the night?
So many questions. Read it for the answers.
I did NOT see the ending coming and because of this I loved, even though at first it was not for me. I have to say that the turning point was the major bust-up in the bar - what a fantastic description! I was glued to the book after that.
I have to admit that having attended the IOW Literary Festival last year and given a talk as a self-published local author, I know the feeling of not stacking up against the big boys! Ha ha...
I read it in paperback and the use of footnotes threw me off a lot at first, but once I got used to them it was okay.
*I received this book via Rosie's Book Review Team for an honest review*
Amy - bestselling author of romantic fiction.
Frank - author of highly acclaimed thrillers.
Jo - young exciting writer of YA.
And last, but not least, Frank - self-published (practically unknown) writer of contemporary fiction.
I have to admit that at first I found this difficult to get into. I personally don't drink (rarely ever) or smoke and the constant mention of alcohol and smoking put me off. This is a personal dislike of course. It did help to set the tone for these characters and I think this was why I did not like them much at first. BUT, as you read on you start to understand that there is a lot more going on behind the scenes.
This is not just about an award ceremony! Truthfully, I had no idea what was coming and I will give no spoilers.
These are the thing you have to bear in mind...
Who is paying for Frank to stay at the hotel? Apparently, everyone hates him and what he represents.
Why does Amy come across so broken? She is a huge author about to perhaps win a major award after all.
Is Jo as nice as she seems?
Are Frank and Amy having an affair in the dark of the night?
So many questions. Read it for the answers.
I did NOT see the ending coming and because of this I loved, even though at first it was not for me. I have to say that the turning point was the major bust-up in the bar - what a fantastic description! I was glued to the book after that.
I have to admit that having attended the IOW Literary Festival last year and given a talk as a self-published local author, I know the feeling of not stacking up against the big boys! Ha ha...
I read it in paperback and the use of footnotes threw me off a lot at first, but once I got used to them it was okay.
*I received this book via Rosie's Book Review Team for an honest review*
December 7, 2014
Another profoundly original, creatively rendered, and very suspenseful tale from author Mark Barry:
I don’t think I’ve ever read a novel that combined the narrative elements of intrigue, humor and exposé in a story about literature. About books. And about the somewhat arcane profession of “night porter” in a high-end hotel, this one in Wheatley Fields, England, the lodging headquarters, at story’s commencement, of a quartet of authors in town for the Arkwright Literary Fiction Awards, a prestigious event akin to the Academy Awards, but for authors.
Since I don’t know if ANY other novel has taken on this eclectic combo of elements, perhaps I should amend my first line to, “...a novel that so SUCCESSFULLY combined...,” for, indeed, this is a wonderfully, creatively, and unusually successful book.
The titular Night Porter is our story’s narrator and from his point of view we not only gain a very rich and visceral sense of place in regards to Wheatley Fields and surrounds (including the weather, which is almost a character in the book!), but of the rooms, hallways, and meeting places within The Saladin Inn itself, the historical hotel (built in the 13th Century) where he conducts his job and has for many years. A man who believes strongly in the nobility and value of his chosen profession, he introduces us to the fine-points of his many tasks and responsibilities, as well as lays out the details and players involved in the unfolding event.
The bulk of the story has our Night Porter (NP) wrangling the many and various needs (and quirks) of the nominated quartet staying at the Saladin, namely: Jo, the beauteous American author of “young adult” novels; Amy, the smoky, sensual British romance novelist who’s in contention with a more literary effort this go-around; Frank, an African-American star in the “thriller” category, and Julian, the thirty-something self-published (first ever at the Awards) wunderkind who’s written a well-received piece of contemporary fiction, but whose behavior online (trolling may be an understatement!) and off (outrageous bouts of public drunkenness), and general sense of bitter, cynical and overtly aggressive behavior (particularly towards Amy, for whom he seems to bear a unique level of antipathy) – has put him on the wrong side of a great many, both writers and their readers.
But NP and Julian find a workable enough camaraderie and it’s through their many conversations and interactions that author Mark Barry very cleverly, and insightfully, shines a light on the often skewer-worthy minutia of the literary world, from the frustrations and various denigrations of being self-published vs. the banality and power of the commercial publishing paradigm, to the oh-so-human aspects of jealousy, insecurity, and back-biting that exist in this very competitive environment. As NP gets more and more involved with these four authors, he finds himself drawn to Amy, wary of Frank, endeared to Jo, and sympathetic – if irked – by the brilliant, but often vicious and self-sabotaging, Julian.
Things take an ominous turn, however, when Julian, in a spectacular explosion of drunkenness, loudly and publicly attacks Frank and Amy, and alienates even Jo (with whom he’s actually managed some mutual affection), just days before the awards ceremony. When later that night, NP discovers him nearly dead after a clear case of assault, the story morphs from an interesting drama of literary fisticuffs to a literal and page-turning whodunit.
This mystery leads to many others, culminating on the big night, where the minute-by-minute lead up to and unfolding of who wins what, who might be guilty, “how did Julian leave the hospital and get here?” – right up to a stunning revelation of why the rancor between Amy and Julian is so intense – is so expertly composed and built by Barry that it achieves maximum nail-biting (not something you’d necessarily expect in a novel of this sort!), to the point that I had to make myself not skip ahead, but slowly let the tale unfold!
Barry is a master at weaving narrative, dialogue, wit, and description in a story that never flags, and despite its exploration of the rather insular and “inside” world of writers and publishing, the story involves a completely relatable set of circumstances that will engage and intrigue readers of all backgrounds. He also employs footnotes in an unusual and, initially slightly distracting way, but, like subtitles in a foreign movie, once a reader gets familiar with their rhythm and placement, their use becomes a delightful side-bar to the larger text. It’s in those footnotes that we hear the asides, the thoughts, the more internalized perspective of our narrator, and they become such a bonus component of his character.
Having read Barry’s much darker but equally expert (and profoundly original) novel, CARLA, prior to this one, my expectations were high. I am so damned pleased, as a very selective reader, to find them fully realized in THE NIGHT PORTER, another profoundly original, creatively rendered, and very suspenseful tale from a favorite author.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a novel that combined the narrative elements of intrigue, humor and exposé in a story about literature. About books. And about the somewhat arcane profession of “night porter” in a high-end hotel, this one in Wheatley Fields, England, the lodging headquarters, at story’s commencement, of a quartet of authors in town for the Arkwright Literary Fiction Awards, a prestigious event akin to the Academy Awards, but for authors.
Since I don’t know if ANY other novel has taken on this eclectic combo of elements, perhaps I should amend my first line to, “...a novel that so SUCCESSFULLY combined...,” for, indeed, this is a wonderfully, creatively, and unusually successful book.
The titular Night Porter is our story’s narrator and from his point of view we not only gain a very rich and visceral sense of place in regards to Wheatley Fields and surrounds (including the weather, which is almost a character in the book!), but of the rooms, hallways, and meeting places within The Saladin Inn itself, the historical hotel (built in the 13th Century) where he conducts his job and has for many years. A man who believes strongly in the nobility and value of his chosen profession, he introduces us to the fine-points of his many tasks and responsibilities, as well as lays out the details and players involved in the unfolding event.
The bulk of the story has our Night Porter (NP) wrangling the many and various needs (and quirks) of the nominated quartet staying at the Saladin, namely: Jo, the beauteous American author of “young adult” novels; Amy, the smoky, sensual British romance novelist who’s in contention with a more literary effort this go-around; Frank, an African-American star in the “thriller” category, and Julian, the thirty-something self-published (first ever at the Awards) wunderkind who’s written a well-received piece of contemporary fiction, but whose behavior online (trolling may be an understatement!) and off (outrageous bouts of public drunkenness), and general sense of bitter, cynical and overtly aggressive behavior (particularly towards Amy, for whom he seems to bear a unique level of antipathy) – has put him on the wrong side of a great many, both writers and their readers.
But NP and Julian find a workable enough camaraderie and it’s through their many conversations and interactions that author Mark Barry very cleverly, and insightfully, shines a light on the often skewer-worthy minutia of the literary world, from the frustrations and various denigrations of being self-published vs. the banality and power of the commercial publishing paradigm, to the oh-so-human aspects of jealousy, insecurity, and back-biting that exist in this very competitive environment. As NP gets more and more involved with these four authors, he finds himself drawn to Amy, wary of Frank, endeared to Jo, and sympathetic – if irked – by the brilliant, but often vicious and self-sabotaging, Julian.
Things take an ominous turn, however, when Julian, in a spectacular explosion of drunkenness, loudly and publicly attacks Frank and Amy, and alienates even Jo (with whom he’s actually managed some mutual affection), just days before the awards ceremony. When later that night, NP discovers him nearly dead after a clear case of assault, the story morphs from an interesting drama of literary fisticuffs to a literal and page-turning whodunit.
This mystery leads to many others, culminating on the big night, where the minute-by-minute lead up to and unfolding of who wins what, who might be guilty, “how did Julian leave the hospital and get here?” – right up to a stunning revelation of why the rancor between Amy and Julian is so intense – is so expertly composed and built by Barry that it achieves maximum nail-biting (not something you’d necessarily expect in a novel of this sort!), to the point that I had to make myself not skip ahead, but slowly let the tale unfold!
Barry is a master at weaving narrative, dialogue, wit, and description in a story that never flags, and despite its exploration of the rather insular and “inside” world of writers and publishing, the story involves a completely relatable set of circumstances that will engage and intrigue readers of all backgrounds. He also employs footnotes in an unusual and, initially slightly distracting way, but, like subtitles in a foreign movie, once a reader gets familiar with their rhythm and placement, their use becomes a delightful side-bar to the larger text. It’s in those footnotes that we hear the asides, the thoughts, the more internalized perspective of our narrator, and they become such a bonus component of his character.
Having read Barry’s much darker but equally expert (and profoundly original) novel, CARLA, prior to this one, my expectations were high. I am so damned pleased, as a very selective reader, to find them fully realized in THE NIGHT PORTER, another profoundly original, creatively rendered, and very suspenseful tale from a favorite author.
August 18, 2014
Being a night porter in a hotel like the Saladin is a serious job. Especially when four authors are staying at the hotel for two weeks and have been placed under your care. They drink heavily, they don't get along or they get on too well and they have all kinds of immediate requests. The night porter has to make sure these guests are happy, he has to treat them like they're super stars. They are there for a special award and each of them has been nominated in at least one category. Amy is a romance writer who has been broadening her horizons. Julian is an Indie author who obviously has a problem with her. Jo is sweet and angelic and she writes for young adults. Frank writes thrillers and he is a bit too close with Amy. The night porter isn't much of a reader, so he hasn't read any of their books. He forms a bond with each of his guests though, but with some he becomes more close than with others. The four authors are making it difficult for him to follow his own strict rules all the time. When the award ceremony is coming very near things are starting to get really uncomfortable.
The Night Porter has made rules for himself. He's working seven nights a week. He lives for his job and there's no other thing he'd rather do. He's one with his job and he's keeping his professional distance from the guests. He's impeccably dressed and he's a very good listener. All of these things make him a formidable main character. The night porter is giving his own account of the events happening before the ceremony and meanwhile he's telling the stories of the four authors. They remain mysterious, but at the same time they're coming terribly close. I'm impressed with the way Mark Barry writes, his style is unique, creative, complex and still agreeable. The opinions about writing and writers made this book extremely fascinating. I loved the irony. I was curious all the time, I wanted to find out what the guests had to hide and I couldn't put this novel away until I knew. The Night Porter is an extraordinary read. I was intrigued from beginning to end.
The Night Porter has made rules for himself. He's working seven nights a week. He lives for his job and there's no other thing he'd rather do. He's one with his job and he's keeping his professional distance from the guests. He's impeccably dressed and he's a very good listener. All of these things make him a formidable main character. The night porter is giving his own account of the events happening before the ceremony and meanwhile he's telling the stories of the four authors. They remain mysterious, but at the same time they're coming terribly close. I'm impressed with the way Mark Barry writes, his style is unique, creative, complex and still agreeable. The opinions about writing and writers made this book extremely fascinating. I loved the irony. I was curious all the time, I wanted to find out what the guests had to hide and I couldn't put this novel away until I knew. The Night Porter is an extraordinary read. I was intrigued from beginning to end.
March 21, 2014
"Night porters are generally excellent listeners. It should be in EVERY hotel job description.";-)
The Night Porter grabs hold and invites you in. Instantly you are welcomed into the arms of the night porter. An open an honest portrayal of a man earning a living doing something he has been raised to do. Actually, that is not entirely true. He first had to drop out of university and then the wheels were in set motion. Not without a little disappointment from family...
"However, my father, with whom I had experienced a strained relationship, was livid - apoplectic, even - and because of my decision, my father and I no longer have a strained relationship, or any relationship at all..."
This guy is an interesting fellow (if I were in the UK I would say "bloke" instead). I love his chatter and how he invites us right into his world. Sharing everything in- between.
The writing as in all Mark Barry's books is sharp, clever with a fabulous sarcastic undertone. Done in the most humorous way. Reminiscence of Monty Python bits. His use of language is beyond shrewd. I read and re-read sentences as I am in awe of this authors unique writing ability. I would like to say natural talent but that would be hard for me to fathom. The detailed descriptions are beyond gifted. At times the narrative gives you the feeling that you are chatting with a friend as the dialog flows so natural off the pages.
I went berserk over the humorous footnotes which were absolutely brilliant... You will have to read for yourself! This book delighted me and and I am certain will knock the writing world off its socks. So clever!
The Night Porter grabs hold and invites you in. Instantly you are welcomed into the arms of the night porter. An open an honest portrayal of a man earning a living doing something he has been raised to do. Actually, that is not entirely true. He first had to drop out of university and then the wheels were in set motion. Not without a little disappointment from family...
"However, my father, with whom I had experienced a strained relationship, was livid - apoplectic, even - and because of my decision, my father and I no longer have a strained relationship, or any relationship at all..."
This guy is an interesting fellow (if I were in the UK I would say "bloke" instead). I love his chatter and how he invites us right into his world. Sharing everything in- between.
The writing as in all Mark Barry's books is sharp, clever with a fabulous sarcastic undertone. Done in the most humorous way. Reminiscence of Monty Python bits. His use of language is beyond shrewd. I read and re-read sentences as I am in awe of this authors unique writing ability. I would like to say natural talent but that would be hard for me to fathom. The detailed descriptions are beyond gifted. At times the narrative gives you the feeling that you are chatting with a friend as the dialog flows so natural off the pages.
I went berserk over the humorous footnotes which were absolutely brilliant... You will have to read for yourself! This book delighted me and and I am certain will knock the writing world off its socks. So clever!
May 28, 2014
THE NIGHT PORTER is about fortnight in the life of a hotel in a fictional town in the midlands, which is hosting a quartet of authors there to prepare for a literary award ceremony. The strength of this book is in the turns of phrase, the characterisation, the dialogue. I didn't guess the 'secret' until just before it was revealed, and I was delighted to discover another twist after it, too - and a marvellously satisfying ending!
I think this is a must read for any self published writers, or those published by an 'indie' press. I loved the cynical, bitter character of Julian, the talented, self-published author of literary fiction with a drink and rage problem who is driven to despair by the success of the popular writers with their formulaic offerings. There are many insights into the publishing industry throughout the book, but not to the extent that they would exclude anyone not interested in it.
I bought the paperback, which I would recommend as it's beautifully presented, and includes many footnotes. I have to confess that I didn't read them all as I wanted to get on with the main story, and I felt that some of them could have been included in the main body of the text, but they certainly add to the book. The best one of all was the last one. You know when the credits of a film go up, and lots of funny little outtakes, or other amusing looks at 'what went on afterwards' are shown? Footnote number 81 reminded me of that!
To sum up - very well written, amusing, sweet, interesting, surprising - oh, and the character of yobbo bar manager Martin Sixsmith is a masterpiece!
I think this is a must read for any self published writers, or those published by an 'indie' press. I loved the cynical, bitter character of Julian, the talented, self-published author of literary fiction with a drink and rage problem who is driven to despair by the success of the popular writers with their formulaic offerings. There are many insights into the publishing industry throughout the book, but not to the extent that they would exclude anyone not interested in it.
I bought the paperback, which I would recommend as it's beautifully presented, and includes many footnotes. I have to confess that I didn't read them all as I wanted to get on with the main story, and I felt that some of them could have been included in the main body of the text, but they certainly add to the book. The best one of all was the last one. You know when the credits of a film go up, and lots of funny little outtakes, or other amusing looks at 'what went on afterwards' are shown? Footnote number 81 reminded me of that!
To sum up - very well written, amusing, sweet, interesting, surprising - oh, and the character of yobbo bar manager Martin Sixsmith is a masterpiece!
March 18, 2014
If you loved The Remains of the Day, you’ll love The Night Porter
The story takes place in the modern era and focuses on a two week period when The Saladin hotel hosts four renowned authors competing for the prestigious Arkwright Literary Fiction Award.
The author gives the reader an insight into a dying profession, reminding one of the performance given by Anthony Hopkins in “The Remains of the Day”. Mr. Barry delves into the mindset of the British servant personified. The position was not just a job, it was and still is in some instances, a way of life, which is an alien concept with today’s youth.
The reader becomes familiar with the four authors as snippets of their lives unfold. There is discourse amongst the contenders as the British and American writers await press conferences and the awards ceremony itself. Scandalous behavior unbefitting to such a prestigious establishment, but not uncommon in today’s society.
A few days before the ceremony, the porter finds Julian lying on the floor after having been struck in the head, and definitely not an accident. And the thrilling ride begins. As the powers that be attempt to keep a lid on the incident until after the awards ceremony, tension mounts amongst the key players.
Mr. Barry sweeps the reader into the celebratory arena where expectations are rife, building a climatic finish one does not see coming. An excellent read by a superb writer and storyteller. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more of Mr. Barry’s works.
May 17, 2014
Mark Barry is one of those authors we all love. We find his books, read one, and find ourselves hooked. He's the author we all waited with baited breath to release a new tome. He's one of those guys who can take an idea and goes in a complete other direction with it.
The Night Porter is his latest offering and follows, well, a hotel night porter during a high profile writing awards event. The book looks through the porter's eyes as he comments on the comings and goings of the nominated authors. Slowly but surely he finds himself getting involved with their lives until he's in too deep to get out.
The story is amazing and gripping. For me, it was a brilliantly unforgettable experience (admittedly I read a good portion of this book while staying in a hotel so that may have helped a little). The characters are fun and engaging and, all too soon, you find yourself wanting to know what happens next. The book is also, I feel, a commentary on the current literary market, and a very clever commentary at that. Mark's vision is absolutely spot on and this is a clever and very funny read that doesn't take itself too seriously.
If you like books which are a little different from the norm, then give this one a go. Heck, give all of Mark's book a go because you won't be disappointed. This is an author who doesn't play by the rules and, when he does, he twists and turns them to his own liking. He can take a genre and do something completely different with it.
The Night Porter is his latest offering and follows, well, a hotel night porter during a high profile writing awards event. The book looks through the porter's eyes as he comments on the comings and goings of the nominated authors. Slowly but surely he finds himself getting involved with their lives until he's in too deep to get out.
The story is amazing and gripping. For me, it was a brilliantly unforgettable experience (admittedly I read a good portion of this book while staying in a hotel so that may have helped a little). The characters are fun and engaging and, all too soon, you find yourself wanting to know what happens next. The book is also, I feel, a commentary on the current literary market, and a very clever commentary at that. Mark's vision is absolutely spot on and this is a clever and very funny read that doesn't take itself too seriously.
If you like books which are a little different from the norm, then give this one a go. Heck, give all of Mark's book a go because you won't be disappointed. This is an author who doesn't play by the rules and, when he does, he twists and turns them to his own liking. He can take a genre and do something completely different with it.
May 26, 2014
Where to start? I SO didn't want this book to end! I felt a real sense of loss afterwards because I'd become so enmeshed in the characters' lives! I think it was page 81 or so when I fell in absolute love with night porter, I don't think they make men like that anymore! The has a wonderful cast of characters that I could relate to. I especially loved the young YA writer and the way in which Mark Barry wrote her, I have a friend just like that, and around that age and Mark Baryy nailed that Gen Y type perfectly. The romance writer cracked me up, she was so vivid and inebriated and how I imagine myself to be in a few years! (What's a little alcohol between friends?)
Aside from the wonderful people, (saying characters diminishes them somewhat - because they actually seem REAL) there is also a very cunning plot full of twists and turns that had me speeding along to find out WHODUNNIT. And it kills me, it really does, that I couldn't work it out! GAH! That's great writing for you! Mr Clever, (Mark Barry) also writes with these really amusing footnotes included in the text, and they really add to the whole uniqueness of the book.
Beautiful, eloquent, and humorous, a great satire which I highly recommend! I SO SO hope there is a sequel to this, because I would buy it in a second.
Aside from the wonderful people, (saying characters diminishes them somewhat - because they actually seem REAL) there is also a very cunning plot full of twists and turns that had me speeding along to find out WHODUNNIT. And it kills me, it really does, that I couldn't work it out! GAH! That's great writing for you! Mr Clever, (Mark Barry) also writes with these really amusing footnotes included in the text, and they really add to the whole uniqueness of the book.
Beautiful, eloquent, and humorous, a great satire which I highly recommend! I SO SO hope there is a sequel to this, because I would buy it in a second.
October 26, 2014
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was an excellent book, and I've already recommended it to several of my author friends. It paints a picture of a profession which many of us don't get to see: that of the author vying for an award, pitted against their rivals in a world moving quickly toward digital media over the printed word. And to top it off, this award season has allowed the inclusion of a (gasp) e-book writer! Not only is THAT a point of contention for all those involved, but the main author nominated is not that great a person to begin with. He, along with three others up for Arkwright awards, are registered guests at The Saladin Hotel, and we get our "insider scoop" from the night porter of the hotel himself.
I loved this book, and I couldn't bear to put it down. It had the perfect amount of wit, intrigue, and interesting facts about the writing world, in general, and it help my interest from the first word until the last. I would definitely recommend it to all those involved in any form of the writing profession, as well as those who enjoy reading, as it gives a little extra perspective into those minds which provide us with the material we so love and crave.
5 stars (wish I could give it more)
This was an excellent book, and I've already recommended it to several of my author friends. It paints a picture of a profession which many of us don't get to see: that of the author vying for an award, pitted against their rivals in a world moving quickly toward digital media over the printed word. And to top it off, this award season has allowed the inclusion of a (gasp) e-book writer! Not only is THAT a point of contention for all those involved, but the main author nominated is not that great a person to begin with. He, along with three others up for Arkwright awards, are registered guests at The Saladin Hotel, and we get our "insider scoop" from the night porter of the hotel himself.
I loved this book, and I couldn't bear to put it down. It had the perfect amount of wit, intrigue, and interesting facts about the writing world, in general, and it help my interest from the first word until the last. I would definitely recommend it to all those involved in any form of the writing profession, as well as those who enjoy reading, as it gives a little extra perspective into those minds which provide us with the material we so love and crave.
5 stars (wish I could give it more)
February 20, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I'm always looking for books that are not in the "run of the mill, best seller list" category - and this one fulfills. How many books have you read that are devoted to the work life of a night porter in a hotel? The Saladin hotel is hosting a literary awards ceremony as well as some of the attendant authors, and it is the professional duty of our title character to be accommodating, diplomatic, non-judgmental, conscientious to the utmost - as well as provide any service that will reflect honorably on the hotel. And he is a professional and devoted to his chosen profession - in fact, his profession is his life. We come to know the night porter (even though we never learn his name) as well as four of the authors over their two-week stay at the Saladin. In addition to being a very entertaining read, "The Night Porter" gives us a glimpse of the literary world - the authors' motivations, deepest desires, rivalries, flawed (but endearing) characters, and, to a lesser degree, the politics of the publishing and current self-publishing worlds. I recommend it highly.
August 5, 2022
This is a story about four novelists staying at a hotel in the run-up to an awards ceremony. But not really. This is a story about a very good night porter at the hotel and his observations and conversations with these four novelists. Told in the first person, full of his own opinions about everything. The recommendation said it was hilarious, but I didn't laugh once. However, I was totally drawn in to this claustrophobic world and the characters' interactions, phobias, hopes, fears and wildly differing behaviours, and all confided to the night porter. Really gripping, and a good plot. Recommended.
June 6, 2014
It was brilliantly written, entertaining, funny and the characters really came across, and the dialogue is some of the best I have ever read. But it just isn’t the kind of book I like, and this is the reason I’ve not given it a higher star rating. Similarly, I don’t enjoy books by Julian Barnes, Louis de Bernieres, Hilary Mantel or Martin Amis, and Mark’s book is every bit as good as theirs, and, I would say, in a similar literary genre.
May 1, 2014
I didn't know what to expect with this book, never read any of his work before, but this was great full review to follow...and very quotable
March 12, 2015
Face it: we all love to see ourselves. Artists paint pictures of other artists, or paint themselves into other art. (Really, da Vinci? The Mona Lisa?) Hollywood loves to make movies about people making movies. And if a story ever comes up about a journalist, the guys on the six-o’clock news practically wet themselves covering it from every possible angle.
So when I heard that Mark Barry’s The Night Porter was about the run-up to a Booker-like literary awards ceremony, I added it to my TBR (to be read) list. I’m not a huge fan of literary fiction so I wasn’t in any hurry. That was until I received a review copy through #RBRT, Rosie Amber’s Book Review Team. Less than a chapter in, I was laughing out loud, scaring my husband and the dog by yelling, “Hell, yeah!” (a lot), giving up cooking (you can so live on cereal and caffeine), plus abandoning personal hygiene (mostly), sleep (overrated), and all human contact (still walked the dog, of course) until I finished it.
I usually do reviews from digital copies. As I read, I try to highlight or add one or two comments. But Mark sent me an actual physical book. Okay, no problem. An old desk set gift included a package of those little paper sticky tabs, so I decided to use them to mark one or two of the best places. There are a few pages without sticky tabs. Not many, though. It’s just that good.
From the moment we meet the Night Porter at the luxury Saladin Inn, it’s clear that he’s abandoned anything which doesn’t fit in his carefully crafted persona. “I am a night porter. I am the night porter.” Because the person he’s invented only exists in one environment, the rest of his life is as bare as possible. He hasn’t had sex in six years. His apartment isn’t a home, but just a place to sleep. “My flat doesn’t have a single extraneous decorative object anywhere in sight. My bathroom is a Bauhaus example of pure Germanic functionalism.”
He may pretend that he doesn’t see the hotel as an extension of himself, but by page 8 he acknowledges the truth as he introduces readers to Cat, the hotel’s general manager. “She’s quite nice, for the profession. It’s just that she likes to think of herself as the ultimate professional, and so do I, so it’s not good for the two of us to occupy the same space. It defies immutable laws of physics.” Cat informs the Night Porter that the hotel has been fortunate to host four of the finalists in the upcoming mega-million dollar Arkwright Literary Fiction Award—romance novelist Amy Cook, YA fantasy writer Jo Marron-Saint, thriller writer Frank Duke, and self-published indie writer Julian Green. Julian’s is the bitter, probably alcoholic voice of truth, whose caustic judgmental derision can’t hide the fact that the other three have achieved commercial success that will probably never be his.
As the bemused Night Porter unwillingly becomes part of the lives of the hotel’s literary guests, he finds himself unravelling the mysteries of their connections, both to each other and to their individual writing. When those personal interactions explode into violence, the Night Porter’s involvement in the lives of his literary guests threatens his view of his job, himself, and his world. As a reader, I cared. By then, these complex three-dimensional characters were living and breathing people and writers. I wanted each of them to win their award, achieve success, and find happiness.
Figuring out the actual who-done-it, however, is almost irrelevant because Mark Barry is a genius. Through his merciless and loving evisceration of each genre, we know these writers. Even more, we know their world. In the long and often hilarious footnotes, we see lists of contestants and books that are a microcosm of publishing. There are inside writing jokes. For example, the luxuriously published and elegantly displayed case of previous contest winners displayed in the hotel lobby contains titles that we know by familiar—but indie—writers (right, Terry Tyler?).
So do you have to be a writer to love The Night Porter? Well, they say everyone has at least one book in them, and that potentially makes us all writers. But this goes beyond the act of setting down words—which most writers admit is the easy part—to dwell with loving viciousness on the industry of publishing. Of course, there are the indie problems, as self-publishing Julian explains to the Night Porter. When it only takes the click of a mouse to publish, everybody publishes books. But there is also the publishing paradox: readers want stories they already know in genre’s they’re familiar with. So both traditional and self-publishing gives them what they want, and closes ranks against anything else.
With the fact echoing in readers’ heads that The Night Porter is itself a literary fiction novel written by an indie author, it’s amusing to hear romance novelist Amy explain the fundamental insecurity of self-published writers like Julian.
And your writer friends? They definitely deserve a copy of The Night Porter.
*I received this book for free from the publisher or author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
So when I heard that Mark Barry’s The Night Porter was about the run-up to a Booker-like literary awards ceremony, I added it to my TBR (to be read) list. I’m not a huge fan of literary fiction so I wasn’t in any hurry. That was until I received a review copy through #RBRT, Rosie Amber’s Book Review Team. Less than a chapter in, I was laughing out loud, scaring my husband and the dog by yelling, “Hell, yeah!” (a lot), giving up cooking (you can so live on cereal and caffeine), plus abandoning personal hygiene (mostly), sleep (overrated), and all human contact (still walked the dog, of course) until I finished it.
I usually do reviews from digital copies. As I read, I try to highlight or add one or two comments. But Mark sent me an actual physical book. Okay, no problem. An old desk set gift included a package of those little paper sticky tabs, so I decided to use them to mark one or two of the best places. There are a few pages without sticky tabs. Not many, though. It’s just that good.
From the moment we meet the Night Porter at the luxury Saladin Inn, it’s clear that he’s abandoned anything which doesn’t fit in his carefully crafted persona. “I am a night porter. I am the night porter.” Because the person he’s invented only exists in one environment, the rest of his life is as bare as possible. He hasn’t had sex in six years. His apartment isn’t a home, but just a place to sleep. “My flat doesn’t have a single extraneous decorative object anywhere in sight. My bathroom is a Bauhaus example of pure Germanic functionalism.”
He may pretend that he doesn’t see the hotel as an extension of himself, but by page 8 he acknowledges the truth as he introduces readers to Cat, the hotel’s general manager. “She’s quite nice, for the profession. It’s just that she likes to think of herself as the ultimate professional, and so do I, so it’s not good for the two of us to occupy the same space. It defies immutable laws of physics.” Cat informs the Night Porter that the hotel has been fortunate to host four of the finalists in the upcoming mega-million dollar Arkwright Literary Fiction Award—romance novelist Amy Cook, YA fantasy writer Jo Marron-Saint, thriller writer Frank Duke, and self-published indie writer Julian Green. Julian’s is the bitter, probably alcoholic voice of truth, whose caustic judgmental derision can’t hide the fact that the other three have achieved commercial success that will probably never be his.
As the bemused Night Porter unwillingly becomes part of the lives of the hotel’s literary guests, he finds himself unravelling the mysteries of their connections, both to each other and to their individual writing. When those personal interactions explode into violence, the Night Porter’s involvement in the lives of his literary guests threatens his view of his job, himself, and his world. As a reader, I cared. By then, these complex three-dimensional characters were living and breathing people and writers. I wanted each of them to win their award, achieve success, and find happiness.
Figuring out the actual who-done-it, however, is almost irrelevant because Mark Barry is a genius. Through his merciless and loving evisceration of each genre, we know these writers. Even more, we know their world. In the long and often hilarious footnotes, we see lists of contestants and books that are a microcosm of publishing. There are inside writing jokes. For example, the luxuriously published and elegantly displayed case of previous contest winners displayed in the hotel lobby contains titles that we know by familiar—but indie—writers (right, Terry Tyler?).
So do you have to be a writer to love The Night Porter? Well, they say everyone has at least one book in them, and that potentially makes us all writers. But this goes beyond the act of setting down words—which most writers admit is the easy part—to dwell with loving viciousness on the industry of publishing. Of course, there are the indie problems, as self-publishing Julian explains to the Night Porter. When it only takes the click of a mouse to publish, everybody publishes books. But there is also the publishing paradox: readers want stories they already know in genre’s they’re familiar with. So both traditional and self-publishing gives them what they want, and closes ranks against anything else.
With the fact echoing in readers’ heads that The Night Porter is itself a literary fiction novel written by an indie author, it’s amusing to hear romance novelist Amy explain the fundamental insecurity of self-published writers like Julian.
“— the Ritual,” she interrupted. “He’s not been through it, and it kills him. He has a fear of rejection. He’s scared. The Ritual cures you of that. You see, I know. I’m an author. I have no insecurities because my work has been examined and judged. Not just by readers, but by professionals. It has survived the slush pile. It has been laughed at, rejected, beaten, shunned — and this is by friends. It has survived editors. Some of whom are more vicious than Julian will ever be. That isn’t because of inherent insecurity, that’s because they are bad; plain, ordinary, bad people.”But Barry knows that’s too easy. He writes, and writes incredibly well. And he self-publishes. Why?
It’s about people. It’s about reading. It’s about the joy of books.Mark Barry shares that love with us in this impeccably crafted, funny, fast-paced novel. He loves writing and he loves these characters, and we do too. By the end, everyone might not get what they have coming to them, but they get what they deserve. Mark Barry deserves five out of five stars. We deserve more Mark Barry books.
It’s about love.
And your writer friends? They definitely deserve a copy of The Night Porter.
*I received this book for free from the publisher or author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
March 20, 2017
This is the second book I have read by Mark Barry, and I've enjoyed both. What I like best about this author is he hasn't bowed to convention, writing generic pulp to the masses. He has a unique voice and style. Most authors now are afraid to stand out as different, as so many readers only want the same ol', same ol' stuff they find comfortable. Personally, I love an author who can make me think, and who has the ability to surprise me. Well done!
November 21, 2021
I read this because it was recommended and I know the hotel where it is based. I liked the opening and the ending was fun, but it was three times longer than needed for the story.
March 5, 2015
My only concern with Mark Barry’s wickedly clever book, The Night Porter, is that I may not be able to fully do it justice in my review. It really is a joy to read and a novel that operates on many different levels.
Superficially it can be enjoyed as an observational take on life in a high-end hotel, as narrated to us by the night porter. It focuses in particular on a short period of time leading up to the Arkwright literary awards, in which the hotel will play a pivotal role, not least because it will become temporary home to four of the writers. The novel develops into something of a mystery as one of the writers is attacked in his room and left for dead.
Barry’s tour de force is about so much more than this though. Throughout the novel, Barry skilfully affords us a playful metaphorical nod to the art of writing and never lets us forget that he is in fact constructing a story. He deftly raises the question of what it means to be a writer and whether one form of writing is any more valid than another. Barry uses the character of Julian Green, an acclaimed indie writer who despises the more commercial writers, to represent the ‘literary’ school of writing. There is the constant reference to the “paradox” within writing, whereby what is popular and successful is not necessarily ‘good literature’.
Barry’s exploration of writing as a craft is made even more effective by his own brave experimentation with the novel form. Julian makes the comment that, to be successful, “footnotes and fancy titles” should be avoided and yet, ironically, Barry makes excellent use of both these devices. They lend the novel both a dry sense of humour and, in the case of the footnotes, a deeper glimpse into the mind of the night porter.
The heart of the novel is of course the eponymous night porter. He is a complex and at times devious character, who captivates the reader with his gloriously prissy and yet sincere account of his life in the hotel. The night porter is a man defined by his job, hence his anonymous status, and in the beginning it would seem he is nothing without it. He subsumes his own identity to the needs of the job and we get the idea of him being like an iceberg, with only ten percent of who he is on show to the public. He seems to have no close friends outside of the hotel and reveals that he has been celibate for six years.
The night porter prides himself on his isolationist stance as a “lone wolf” but, as he becomes more and more infatuated with the writers, we begin to question the impartiality of his view point. He is smitten by the romance writer Amy Cook and hates the “sociable nazi” Martin Sixsmith, who is the bar manager and his nemesis. The night porter may be the “all-seeing eye” of the novel but Barry never lets us forget that he is a human being with all of the flaws and prejudices that are part and parcel of that.
The novel ends in a froth of fun when, like a magician Barry pulls aside the curtain, affording the reader a tiny peek at the mechanisms behind crafting a story. The Night Porter is, without a doubt, indie writing at its best. It is an intelligent, funny and most of all engaging novel and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
Superficially it can be enjoyed as an observational take on life in a high-end hotel, as narrated to us by the night porter. It focuses in particular on a short period of time leading up to the Arkwright literary awards, in which the hotel will play a pivotal role, not least because it will become temporary home to four of the writers. The novel develops into something of a mystery as one of the writers is attacked in his room and left for dead.
Barry’s tour de force is about so much more than this though. Throughout the novel, Barry skilfully affords us a playful metaphorical nod to the art of writing and never lets us forget that he is in fact constructing a story. He deftly raises the question of what it means to be a writer and whether one form of writing is any more valid than another. Barry uses the character of Julian Green, an acclaimed indie writer who despises the more commercial writers, to represent the ‘literary’ school of writing. There is the constant reference to the “paradox” within writing, whereby what is popular and successful is not necessarily ‘good literature’.
Barry’s exploration of writing as a craft is made even more effective by his own brave experimentation with the novel form. Julian makes the comment that, to be successful, “footnotes and fancy titles” should be avoided and yet, ironically, Barry makes excellent use of both these devices. They lend the novel both a dry sense of humour and, in the case of the footnotes, a deeper glimpse into the mind of the night porter.
The heart of the novel is of course the eponymous night porter. He is a complex and at times devious character, who captivates the reader with his gloriously prissy and yet sincere account of his life in the hotel. The night porter is a man defined by his job, hence his anonymous status, and in the beginning it would seem he is nothing without it. He subsumes his own identity to the needs of the job and we get the idea of him being like an iceberg, with only ten percent of who he is on show to the public. He seems to have no close friends outside of the hotel and reveals that he has been celibate for six years.
The night porter prides himself on his isolationist stance as a “lone wolf” but, as he becomes more and more infatuated with the writers, we begin to question the impartiality of his view point. He is smitten by the romance writer Amy Cook and hates the “sociable nazi” Martin Sixsmith, who is the bar manager and his nemesis. The night porter may be the “all-seeing eye” of the novel but Barry never lets us forget that he is a human being with all of the flaws and prejudices that are part and parcel of that.
The novel ends in a froth of fun when, like a magician Barry pulls aside the curtain, affording the reader a tiny peek at the mechanisms behind crafting a story. The Night Porter is, without a doubt, indie writing at its best. It is an intelligent, funny and most of all engaging novel and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
November 9, 2014
I loved every moment of reading this wonderfully original book and wished it didn’t have to end. I’ve never given much thought to the life of a night porter (told in the first person we never find out his name) in a full service hotel before but this innovative work opened my eyes to the lifestyle of a truly dedicated one and the unusual world he occupies. I say occupies as if this is his life rather than a job but he is so dedicated it is in fact his life.
I bought the ebook version of this book and was just about to start it when I was given a copy of the paperback by the author and I was so pleased to read this instead. The paperback is a glorious thing, matte covered with creamy pages and spectacularly formatted with the inclusion of footnotes which I thoroughly enjoyed. I know some may find that they interrupt the reading but I didn’t find that at all. I enjoyed the little asides, the juicy extras as the story progressed and the final one was for me a deliciously perfect end.
The Night Porter is a professional in every way, in his attitude and in his attire - which is immaculate. Everything speaks of someone who is at the peak of their profession, is proud of it and wishes to keep it that way. He is given the task of tending to the needs, the requests and the every whim of four very different authors who come to stay at the Saladin for two weeks prior to the Arkwright Awards that each has been nominated for. The Night Porter is not a reader and knows nothing of the writing world but over these two weeks his eyes are opened. He is an observer, a people watcher and he interacts with each of the authors in different ways as the story progresses never being anything other than his diplomatic and discrete self. A friend to all he is in fact a star.
Barry is a gifted writer. A keen observer of human behaviour the characterisation is vivid and magnificently true to life. As you read you can easily conjure up exactly who Amy, Jo, Julian and Frank (the authors) are as well as the slightly, smaller characters of Mary Beth, Cat and the odious Martin. Barry builds up our interest in each of the authors and their ‘stories’ and reveals the Night Porter’s growing affection for each of them, in different ways, for different reasons so, so subtly through the story. The tension on the Awards night is palpable and I wasn’t expecting the ‘surprise’ when it came which shows the skill of this author. And underlying it all is the possibility of a romance, a will he, won’t he situation which tests the professionalism of The Night Porter who has a strict rule not to become romantically involved with anyone at the hotel. I can’t say enough good things about the style of writing throughout this book. The dialogue, the turn of phrase, the dry humour - all are clever and complex and I loved the lid-lifting on the modern publishing world. A must read for all those who read, or write, actually...
I bought the ebook version of this book and was just about to start it when I was given a copy of the paperback by the author and I was so pleased to read this instead. The paperback is a glorious thing, matte covered with creamy pages and spectacularly formatted with the inclusion of footnotes which I thoroughly enjoyed. I know some may find that they interrupt the reading but I didn’t find that at all. I enjoyed the little asides, the juicy extras as the story progressed and the final one was for me a deliciously perfect end.
The Night Porter is a professional in every way, in his attitude and in his attire - which is immaculate. Everything speaks of someone who is at the peak of their profession, is proud of it and wishes to keep it that way. He is given the task of tending to the needs, the requests and the every whim of four very different authors who come to stay at the Saladin for two weeks prior to the Arkwright Awards that each has been nominated for. The Night Porter is not a reader and knows nothing of the writing world but over these two weeks his eyes are opened. He is an observer, a people watcher and he interacts with each of the authors in different ways as the story progresses never being anything other than his diplomatic and discrete self. A friend to all he is in fact a star.
Barry is a gifted writer. A keen observer of human behaviour the characterisation is vivid and magnificently true to life. As you read you can easily conjure up exactly who Amy, Jo, Julian and Frank (the authors) are as well as the slightly, smaller characters of Mary Beth, Cat and the odious Martin. Barry builds up our interest in each of the authors and their ‘stories’ and reveals the Night Porter’s growing affection for each of them, in different ways, for different reasons so, so subtly through the story. The tension on the Awards night is palpable and I wasn’t expecting the ‘surprise’ when it came which shows the skill of this author. And underlying it all is the possibility of a romance, a will he, won’t he situation which tests the professionalism of The Night Porter who has a strict rule not to become romantically involved with anyone at the hotel. I can’t say enough good things about the style of writing throughout this book. The dialogue, the turn of phrase, the dry humour - all are clever and complex and I loved the lid-lifting on the modern publishing world. A must read for all those who read, or write, actually...
May 8, 2015
The Night Porter is a modern contemporary piece of art. November, England and the prestigious Arkwright Book Awards are just around the corner. A golden award for Best Writer is the ultimate prize along with it's cash reward, and receiving an "Alf" is the book equivalent of the Grammys.
Organisers of the ceremony have taken over all the local hotels and this story is based around 4 authors they have booked into The Saladin Inn. During their stay nothing is too much, their every whim must be catered for and everything is paid for by the Arkwright group.
Amy is a best selling romance novelist, Frank a thriller writer, Jo a YA/NA fiction writer and Julian the outsider, a self-published e-book writer of contemporary fiction. Each with their own characteristics, it's Julian who causes trouble. He is argumentative and rants about the other authors. Amy says he has a chip on his shoulder because he hasn't been through and survived the ritual of selection that traditionally "published" authors have gone through.
The story is told by The Night Porter of the Saladin, the one who listens late at night to those wanting to talk, he tends to their late night needs and is professional to the end. He's there when a shocking event occurs and he's there at the final awards as a guest.
There are plenty of twists and turns and the musings of the Night Porter in detailed foot notes to the text make an extra layer to the book. (footnotes are only in the paperback version)
For my own personal reading experience the footnotes were a distraction and slowed down my read, but I can see them being entertaining, you almost need to read the book twice, once without the footnotes and then with, to get the most from the book. They are a clever style which puts Mark Barry "out there" as an artistic writer.
Organisers of the ceremony have taken over all the local hotels and this story is based around 4 authors they have booked into The Saladin Inn. During their stay nothing is too much, their every whim must be catered for and everything is paid for by the Arkwright group.
Amy is a best selling romance novelist, Frank a thriller writer, Jo a YA/NA fiction writer and Julian the outsider, a self-published e-book writer of contemporary fiction. Each with their own characteristics, it's Julian who causes trouble. He is argumentative and rants about the other authors. Amy says he has a chip on his shoulder because he hasn't been through and survived the ritual of selection that traditionally "published" authors have gone through.
The story is told by The Night Porter of the Saladin, the one who listens late at night to those wanting to talk, he tends to their late night needs and is professional to the end. He's there when a shocking event occurs and he's there at the final awards as a guest.
There are plenty of twists and turns and the musings of the Night Porter in detailed foot notes to the text make an extra layer to the book. (footnotes are only in the paperback version)
For my own personal reading experience the footnotes were a distraction and slowed down my read, but I can see them being entertaining, you almost need to read the book twice, once without the footnotes and then with, to get the most from the book. They are a clever style which puts Mark Barry "out there" as an artistic writer.
April 29, 2015
Set in the luxury Saladhin Hotel, accommodating four authors in the hunt for prestigious prizes at the Arkwright Literary Awards, this story is told by the night porter. I'm usually not a fan of first person stories but I loved this one. Succinct, funny, sad, surprising, this book has it all.
The characters are superbly observed, from the belligerent bar manager to the sweet YA novelist. I loved the visual nature of the book, conjuring up scenes within the hotel that made me feel I was there. The night porter, however, is the star as he diligently attends to his work in the twilight world he loves. Once the guests arrive, the night porter's world expands and he becomes intrigued by the relationships and dynamics between the writers. His professionalism is sometimes at odds with how he feels towards the writers and I enjoyed the conflict he experienced, trying to decide when he was on duty or reacting as a friend.
Accompanied by footnotes which are always interesting and often hilarious, I loved the contemporary writing, language and style.
As the pace of the book gathers and the night porter is invited to the award ceremony, I read into the night to finish this compelling tale. As the awards are presented, the night porter, a man who wouldn't class himself as a reader, understands why writer's write and why Indie authors will fight against the odds to share their stories with the world.
This is Indie writing at its best and I'm looking forward to reading more by Mark Barry.
The characters are superbly observed, from the belligerent bar manager to the sweet YA novelist. I loved the visual nature of the book, conjuring up scenes within the hotel that made me feel I was there. The night porter, however, is the star as he diligently attends to his work in the twilight world he loves. Once the guests arrive, the night porter's world expands and he becomes intrigued by the relationships and dynamics between the writers. His professionalism is sometimes at odds with how he feels towards the writers and I enjoyed the conflict he experienced, trying to decide when he was on duty or reacting as a friend.
Accompanied by footnotes which are always interesting and often hilarious, I loved the contemporary writing, language and style.
As the pace of the book gathers and the night porter is invited to the award ceremony, I read into the night to finish this compelling tale. As the awards are presented, the night porter, a man who wouldn't class himself as a reader, understands why writer's write and why Indie authors will fight against the odds to share their stories with the world.
This is Indie writing at its best and I'm looking forward to reading more by Mark Barry.
May 14, 2016
I am truly stunned by this novel. Highly original and witty, this was a pure delight from start to finish.
The main character, the porter, takes us through the complex plot with great wit. He has a powerful and hypnotic voice that never loses your attention. Barry has a great way with words.
Several writers and an award ceremony provide the colourful entertainment for a clever mystery plot that takes plenty of unexpected turns. Highly intelligent and versatile, this book shows great literary talent at work. Highly recommended.
The main character, the porter, takes us through the complex plot with great wit. He has a powerful and hypnotic voice that never loses your attention. Barry has a great way with words.
Several writers and an award ceremony provide the colourful entertainment for a clever mystery plot that takes plenty of unexpected turns. Highly intelligent and versatile, this book shows great literary talent at work. Highly recommended.
June 14, 2016
Well, it was rather slow starting. Humorous in part as the night porter tells his story. I thought it was drawn out. The last chapters were the best with the suspense of a murderous act building and the surprise ending. Tells the story of four writers in a hotel waiting for the "big night" of the awards. Brings the stories of their lives, their interactions and the unexpected ending. Actually, a good plot but just not my kind of story.
October 11, 2015
Never really got into this one. It seemed to go on and on making the same point at great length. Read two other books between starting and finishing this one. So it was satirical, but the points were made early on and what happened thereafter added little or nothing to what had already been
said.
said.
August 28, 2015
Creative, cozy, colorful look at the inside of a hotel outside of London and the authors gathered there for a book awards ceremony. Very nice read!
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