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The Lobby
Welcome to The Shipley Hotel, where the perky and attentive staff provides the gold standard in artificial concern and comfort to all the colorful characters who pass through its polished brass revolving door and find themselves in The Lobby. Practically engineered for eavesdropping, San Francisco's juiciest hotel lobby offers the perfect place to witness the comings and goings-and the most comedic intersections-of staff, long-term residents, and eclectic guests. Featuring over fifty stories all transpiring in a single twenty-four hour period and intersecting in the Shipley's elegant lobby, readers will meet an eccentric and vast array of characters, most of whom will look awfully familiar and all of whom will speak to the heart. Employing acute skills in human observation and a keen understanding of the essential human needs-frequently unplanned and unexpected rendezvous, ready laughter at others' expense, and maybe even a little love and acceptance-Randi M. Sherman's unique wit and candor will surely make the reader sit up, stand up, roll over, or assume an interested leaning position and take notice. Get comfortable (on the exquisitely upholstered lobby couch) and spy on those checking in and out of the Shipley. Careful: you might just encounter a version of yourself among the ornate balconies and intricate woodwork.
228 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 10, 2016
I really liked the concept of this book. The way that it was written in hourly increments was great. In addition, I enjoyed that all of the stories focused and took place at the Shipley Hotel. It was as if I could picture the hotel and what every one looked like from the employees to the guests. Although, in the beginning it was a little hard to follow along as there were so many new characters being introduced to me that I could not keep them all straight. Then just as I would start to get into a certain part the story would change again. After a while however, I was able to get into the flow and I did enjoy this book. There were many eccentric guests as well as employees at the Shipley Hotel. Some were nice and others were uppity. I did smile several times but I was looking more to laugh then just smile. Overall, this book is a nice, quick read. I would book my reservation again with the author.
Did Not Finish
August 6, 2020While (so far at least) this book doesn't actually have any explicit content, it didn't take too long to realize that the implied content was likely to keep me from really enjoying this book, or easily identifying with some of the life choices made in it.
December 21, 2016
This book was a pleasant surprise. I can't really explain its appeal...I can just picture the revolving cast of characters so well.
August 9, 2016
“The Lobby” by Randy M. Sherman was definitely a different kind of book. Instead of being one cohesive story that follows a main character, the book instead details the events that happen in a 24 hour period inside a hotel’s lobby. It’s almost like the lobby itself is our main character.
The story starts out with the florists making their delivery at 4am, and each chapter is another hour of the day at The Shipley Hotel. “The Lobby” makes a whole Earth’s rotation and ends at 4am. Throughout each hour people come and go and we can read small glimpses of their lives.
Since the whole story takes place in The Shipley’s lobby, we only get to take little peeks at what is happening in the lives of the guests and the staff. At some points we get a bit of background on whoever the story is focusing on at the time, but for the most part all we get are the events and conversations that happen while the character is in the lobby.
I found this style extremely interesting. It goes to show how different people are and how different their situations can be, but they are all at this common location on the same day.
I also enjoyed that we were able to see both guests and staff. We are able to get in on the secrets and procedures behind the scenes, and see how they interact with each other as well as guests (and believe me – there are some surprising interactions!).
While I think the premise and style are interesting, I still prefer my books to have stories that have a beginning, middle, and end. Although the snapshot of everyone’s lives was cool, my personal preference just differs. So if you’re looking for a new read and want to experiment with a different style, “The Lobby” is a good pick for you.
The story starts out with the florists making their delivery at 4am, and each chapter is another hour of the day at The Shipley Hotel. “The Lobby” makes a whole Earth’s rotation and ends at 4am. Throughout each hour people come and go and we can read small glimpses of their lives.
Since the whole story takes place in The Shipley’s lobby, we only get to take little peeks at what is happening in the lives of the guests and the staff. At some points we get a bit of background on whoever the story is focusing on at the time, but for the most part all we get are the events and conversations that happen while the character is in the lobby.
I found this style extremely interesting. It goes to show how different people are and how different their situations can be, but they are all at this common location on the same day.
I also enjoyed that we were able to see both guests and staff. We are able to get in on the secrets and procedures behind the scenes, and see how they interact with each other as well as guests (and believe me – there are some surprising interactions!).
While I think the premise and style are interesting, I still prefer my books to have stories that have a beginning, middle, and end. Although the snapshot of everyone’s lives was cool, my personal preference just differs. So if you’re looking for a new read and want to experiment with a different style, “The Lobby” is a good pick for you.
July 21, 2016
In this award-winning book, Randi M. Sherman weaves an elaborate and highly entertaining world. In The Lobby, the audience acts as a fly on the wall to the goings-on of the extravagant and beautiful Shipley Hotel. The collection of humorous stories is organized by the hour of the day and takes place during a single twenty-four hours, allowing the reader to experience a multitude of small stories that are part of the characters’ lives.
Randi Sherman’s The Lobby is a delightful collection of intertwining stories. It provides an interesting, small look into many people’s lives and how they converge in one place, the lobby of a beautiful hotel. The idea of the collection is very original and the organization of the stories by the hour keeps the reader captivated and interested. The stories are interwoven seamlessly and the collection moves quickly, providing very different and unique characters and stories with each installment.
Although The Lobby is a very interesting and enjoyable collection, there are indeed some moments that I take issue with. The characters in the book are all quite unique from one another, at times playing into stereotypes and out of them. At points, some the characters seem to be caricatures of themselves in ways that are a bit tone deaf and problematic. Also, while there are moments of very lovely and evocative prose, there are also bits of jarring prose and silly typographical and grammatical mistakes. Overall, The Lobby is an entertaining humor collection that many would enjoy.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
Randi Sherman’s The Lobby is a delightful collection of intertwining stories. It provides an interesting, small look into many people’s lives and how they converge in one place, the lobby of a beautiful hotel. The idea of the collection is very original and the organization of the stories by the hour keeps the reader captivated and interested. The stories are interwoven seamlessly and the collection moves quickly, providing very different and unique characters and stories with each installment.
Although The Lobby is a very interesting and enjoyable collection, there are indeed some moments that I take issue with. The characters in the book are all quite unique from one another, at times playing into stereotypes and out of them. At points, some the characters seem to be caricatures of themselves in ways that are a bit tone deaf and problematic. Also, while there are moments of very lovely and evocative prose, there are also bits of jarring prose and silly typographical and grammatical mistakes. Overall, The Lobby is an entertaining humor collection that many would enjoy.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
August 23, 2016
MY THOUGHTS:
Twenty four hours of what happens in the lobby of The Shipley in San Francisco. Starting early one morning then hour by hour occurances until the following morning at the same time, 4 a.m. As with any hotel, people are constantly arriving and leaving. The author lets you in on bits and pieces of the lives of both the employees and the visitors. Whatever is taking place in the lobby, the reader gets the insight. I've never read a book like this before. Not a daily insight but an hourly insight. You get to see how the employees react to the guest along with other employees. Some reactions are surprising. Some of the interactions will make you smile, laugh and think about how this once was you. The pace of the book is steady and will keep you interested. You won't have time to get bored. You not only have one character but many. How many people do you interact with during a 24 hour period.? Stop and think about it. How much of that interaction carries forward to a reaction with another person. You find out a little about each person and sometimes it is very amusing. Haven't you ever wanted to be a little mouse and be able to hear those conversations? Not only do you get the guests, the employees, their transactions but you get the wonderful humor to make you smile.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and PUYB in exchange for my unbiased review.
Twenty four hours of what happens in the lobby of The Shipley in San Francisco. Starting early one morning then hour by hour occurances until the following morning at the same time, 4 a.m. As with any hotel, people are constantly arriving and leaving. The author lets you in on bits and pieces of the lives of both the employees and the visitors. Whatever is taking place in the lobby, the reader gets the insight. I've never read a book like this before. Not a daily insight but an hourly insight. You get to see how the employees react to the guest along with other employees. Some reactions are surprising. Some of the interactions will make you smile, laugh and think about how this once was you. The pace of the book is steady and will keep you interested. You won't have time to get bored. You not only have one character but many. How many people do you interact with during a 24 hour period.? Stop and think about it. How much of that interaction carries forward to a reaction with another person. You find out a little about each person and sometimes it is very amusing. Haven't you ever wanted to be a little mouse and be able to hear those conversations? Not only do you get the guests, the employees, their transactions but you get the wonderful humor to make you smile.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and PUYB in exchange for my unbiased review.
September 6, 2016
What a fun story.
It all takes place over a twenty-four period, with each chapter representing one hour.
The author invites you into her story with as much finesse and adept handling as the doormen who usher in guests to the posh Shipley Hotel.
I have to also hand it to the author for breathing life into her characters, of which there are many. From the employees to the most entitled of guests, you’ll be introduced to a menagerie of strangers rubbing elbows and staff adroitly handling the most difficult guests and embarrassing situations as the clock ticks down to a new day. If you ever wished you were a fly on the wall, here’s your chance.
I started this early in the morning and was finished in a couple of hours. From the opening scene to the final curtain call, it was fun and intriguing. This would be a great play. Or even a television show. I’d tune in for new episodes.
I would be remiss to not share how I felt about the ending. I realized I was down to the last two pages and there was no way the author could possibly give me a satisfying ending. I waffled over whether I even wanted to read the end then. But, I soldiered on and, low and behold, the author pulled it off. I wonder, did the author have the beginning and ending of the story first, and then filled in the middle? I knew for sure the ending was right when I realized I was smiling.
I received this book for my honest review.
It all takes place over a twenty-four period, with each chapter representing one hour.
The author invites you into her story with as much finesse and adept handling as the doormen who usher in guests to the posh Shipley Hotel.
I have to also hand it to the author for breathing life into her characters, of which there are many. From the employees to the most entitled of guests, you’ll be introduced to a menagerie of strangers rubbing elbows and staff adroitly handling the most difficult guests and embarrassing situations as the clock ticks down to a new day. If you ever wished you were a fly on the wall, here’s your chance.
I started this early in the morning and was finished in a couple of hours. From the opening scene to the final curtain call, it was fun and intriguing. This would be a great play. Or even a television show. I’d tune in for new episodes.
I would be remiss to not share how I felt about the ending. I realized I was down to the last two pages and there was no way the author could possibly give me a satisfying ending. I waffled over whether I even wanted to read the end then. But, I soldiered on and, low and behold, the author pulled it off. I wonder, did the author have the beginning and ending of the story first, and then filled in the middle? I knew for sure the ending was right when I realized I was smiling.
I received this book for my honest review.
July 29, 2016
The plot of this book is something I found to be refreshingly different. Being a fly on the wall for the day of some extravagant hotel isn’t one I would have thought of for a book and the way it was marked by the chapter-hour is genius. Sherman’s humor is apparent in the way she describes these characters, some of them far more relatable than others.
The grammatical mistakes did distract from the various stories a bit, but not enough to completely ruin the story itself. I did find myself confused by some of the characters actions- some just seemed to be oddly thrown into the storyline and a tad out of place, intentional or not. In some ways, the cast felt a bit too broad, I did find myself struggling to remember a few of the characters that occurred earlier in the story when the reader meets up with them later in the storyline. That aside, this is a well thought out and amusing story with several memorable characters. I would recommend this little story to anyone who enjoys satirical works.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
The grammatical mistakes did distract from the various stories a bit, but not enough to completely ruin the story itself. I did find myself confused by some of the characters actions- some just seemed to be oddly thrown into the storyline and a tad out of place, intentional or not. In some ways, the cast felt a bit too broad, I did find myself struggling to remember a few of the characters that occurred earlier in the story when the reader meets up with them later in the storyline. That aside, this is a well thought out and amusing story with several memorable characters. I would recommend this little story to anyone who enjoys satirical works.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
July 7, 2016
This collection of stories was as rich and lively as the interior of The Shipley hotel. Human interactions have always fascinated me, and so I loved taking a peek into the lives of each of the characters as they roamed the lobby of the hotel. The characters were all built with such strong personalities, and it was quite entertaining to see how these personalities sometimes clashed. The characters and stories were intertwined masterfully; however, I did wish for follow-up stories or better conclusions for some of the characters, like Lloyd and Bernice. In addition, the writing felt a bit clunky at times, which sometimes took away from the quality of the stories. Overall, though, the concept and characterization of this book was excellent. In an ending note, did anyone else notice the allusion to Little Women with the siblings Joe, Meg, Amy and Beth March? That made me laugh. (:
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
July 29, 2016
I was thrilled to be sent this book from Randi M. Sherman to read. I love all things swanky hotel. I think it began with the Stanley. The cover of this book reminds me of it. This is a 24 hour day of the goings on of the hotel. It is laugh out loud, sometimes embarrassingly so, depending on whose company is near you. I never had such a wild and exciting time reading any book before it. I just cannot wait to read another book by Randi!
The day begins at 4:00 a.m. on the first day and ends at 4:00 a.m. the next morning. Each chapter is another hour in the day and what happens then. The florist arrives, first, to set up the displays all around the hotel. Next, a woman tries to hide her walk of shame on a business trip, and finds her boss at the elevators doing the very same thing. The book is about employees, disgruntled guests, other guests, and so much more. You will enjoy this book long after you have read it!
Thank you to Randi M. Sherman, Pro Book Marketing, and Word Slinger for sending me a free ARC of this book to read and give my honest review.
The day begins at 4:00 a.m. on the first day and ends at 4:00 a.m. the next morning. Each chapter is another hour in the day and what happens then. The florist arrives, first, to set up the displays all around the hotel. Next, a woman tries to hide her walk of shame on a business trip, and finds her boss at the elevators doing the very same thing. The book is about employees, disgruntled guests, other guests, and so much more. You will enjoy this book long after you have read it!
Thank you to Randi M. Sherman, Pro Book Marketing, and Word Slinger for sending me a free ARC of this book to read and give my honest review.
June 18, 2016
The Lobby by Randi M. Sherman is a grand adventure that is juicy, entertaining, and full of surprises. The writing is superb. It takes readers on a journey of experiencing all the drama that goes on within the lobby of The Shipley Hotel. Here, I got to meet a variety of interesting individuals. From pity parties, to a wedding to an educational tour. There's plenty of action, characters, and emotions flying high within this exciting novel. Luxury everywhere...the rich and famous, and workers are filled within this tale. The thrill ride within is one that is more emotional than physical. I was laughing and rooting for the characters along the way. Horse betting and credit cards being declined...this was one adventure that readers will immediately take to...almost like a soap opera but one that made me feel like I was actually there with the characters. The Lobby is indeed a fascinating story that I would recommend to readers. Randi M. Sherman's talent is one that can't be missed.
July 28, 2016
Randi M. Sherman knows how to write a book that is quirky and fun. This book really had some great character development and the characters themselves were ones that seemed extremely realistic. Each and every character had human flaws as well as real life problems. This really showed the how complex life is for each and every one of us.
The way all of the stories flowed together intricately caused the reader to create a deep bond with the characters.
Mostly, this book makes you think about your own experiences in hotels and how one place can bring us all together but at the same time we will never fully know what is going on in their own lives.
DISCLAIMER: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
The way all of the stories flowed together intricately caused the reader to create a deep bond with the characters.
Mostly, this book makes you think about your own experiences in hotels and how one place can bring us all together but at the same time we will never fully know what is going on in their own lives.
DISCLAIMER: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
March 31, 2016
At the beginning of this book you will enter the beautiful revolving doors of the Shipley Hotel and be welcomed into the grandiose lobby. The reader will witness a twenty four hour period in the lives of the guests and employees. The characters seen here are quite unique and you will learn about each one of them. There is even an old celebrity who lives in the lobby. The staff takes exemplary care of its guests, carefully addressing all their needs. From a corporate meeting, a class reunion, and a couple renewing their vows , the reader will be mesmerized.
I received this book from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review. It is a most enjoyable read and you will find it hard to put down.
I received this book from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review. It is a most enjoyable read and you will find it hard to put down.
July 7, 2016
From the very first pages of the book, Randi Sherman brings The Shipley Hotel alive, setting the reader up for a delicious dive into the intertwining lives of several San Francisco tourists and locals. Sherman’s characters are vivid, often-comical prototypes like the obnoxious tourist, suave businessman, and the lady who lunches. I found myself thinking about the characters even after I had finished the book, which I think is the telltale sign of an interesting read. However, while Sherman’s language is beautifully rich and the plotline is interesting, there were several distracting typographical errors.
DISCLAIMER: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
DISCLAIMER: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own.
August 2, 2016
The Lobby is a delightful journey through the lives of fascinating characters all centered around the lobby of the Shipley Hotel. Each hourly short story is an absorbing tale taking a humorous peek into the daily lives of the hotel goers. Though each story was brief, every character was relatable and complex. The rich and sometimes surprising personalities of the characters really kept the stories going and the pace was perfectly timed. Each story left me wanting more and I felt so invested in each of their lives and dilemmas. The Lobby is filled with wit, sarcasm, satire, and moments that made me just laugh out loud. Randi Sherman is an extremely talented writer, whom I would recommend to any reader.
May 16, 2016
I received a review copy
I do not read a lot of satire, but I love finding fun new genres! I was so curious to read The Lobby because I just didn’t know what to expect. Each section within the book covered a different character or set of characters, all surrounding the lobby of The Shipley Hotel. From hotel guests to hotel employees, I zipped along with these fun clips and had a total blast reading this. Scandals and romance and so much more fill these pages and I recommend for your summer reading list!
I do not read a lot of satire, but I love finding fun new genres! I was so curious to read The Lobby because I just didn’t know what to expect. Each section within the book covered a different character or set of characters, all surrounding the lobby of The Shipley Hotel. From hotel guests to hotel employees, I zipped along with these fun clips and had a total blast reading this. Scandals and romance and so much more fill these pages and I recommend for your summer reading list!
May 23, 2016
The Lobby is one of the most original novels I have read in many years. From writing to structure it takes from the best of satirical writing and weaves numerous clever stories, all bound by a fictitious hotel. A lot of the vents are described tongue in cheek but in reality are much closer to real life than we might care to admit. This is what makes The Lobby such a good read along with a powerful sense of place and time. I can't imagine I will walk through a hotel lobby again without remembering this book and smiling to myself!
September 9, 2016
What a delightful tale! I'll admit it was a hodge-podge of characters at first, a bit tricky to keep track of all of them, but then you start seeing some of them pop up more often, and you get to know them. Everyone is just so well-designed, with realistic brush strokes that infuse a dose of gritty reality but nevertheless a good dose of humour, too.
I keep hoping there'll be a sequel to this (I mean, who knows what really happened to Oscar Pasternak???) - I would definitely read that!
I keep hoping there'll be a sequel to this (I mean, who knows what really happened to Oscar Pasternak???) - I would definitely read that!
September 10, 2016
I found this book to be very different form everything and anything that I have ever read before. It was like I was learning about all of the different sorts of things that could happen in a social environment and the different reactions that could be caused. All of the characters were interesting or funny in their own way. This was truly a unique concept that was well delivered.
I was sent a free copy of this book for only my honest review.
I was sent a free copy of this book for only my honest review.
February 24, 2016
Simply put: The Lobby puts a hilarious spotlight on the comings and goings of anonymous people who come to life in the lobby of the grand Shipley Hotel. Practically engineered for eavesdropping, San Francisco's juiciest hotel lobby offers the perfect place to witness the lives—and the most comedic intersections off staff, long-term residents, and eclectic guests.
June 14, 2016
I received this book in a giveaway. I really enjoyed it. Even though it was a book of short stories, it really told a tale. I have worked in hotels and I have seen and heard some of the things happening. I don't give out 5 stars often but this book really deserves it.
To read more of my review visit my blog.
https://journeyingwithceltic.wordpres...
To read more of my review visit my blog.
https://journeyingwithceltic.wordpres...
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January 20, 2016Completely enjoyable. Character driven. The entire book, all 50 stories are intertwined and all take place in a single day in the lobby of the lobby of the elegant, albeit fictitious Shipley Hotel. Funny, fun, clever and thought provoking.
May 1, 2017
What a fun book! I read it in a day. She must be a keen observer of people, with a deep understanding of humans. Her descriptions of the "joy" of business travel and sales meetings made me cringe (laughingly) because it was all so true. I can't believe she fit so much into a single day in a hotel lobby. There's something that will ring true to everyone. I loved it.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews