Women's Hotel A Novel By Daniel M. Lavery

Women’s Hotel is a poignant and humorous debut novel from the New York Times bestselling author and advice columnist, set in the vibrant yet tumultuous world of 1960s New York City. While the Beidermeier Hotel may not share the same prestige as the real-life Barbizon, its eclectic residents create a lively tapestry of life, navigating the challenges and triumphs of a changing society.

Among the residents are Katherine, the cynical first-floor manager who finds herself more suggestible than she’d like to admit; Lucianne, a carefree party girl caught between comfort and rebellion; Kitty, the sponger; Ruth, the aspiring hairdresser; and Pauline, the dedicated typesetter. Their stories intertwine with that of Stephen, the daytime elevator operator and Cooper Union student, who adds a youthful spark to their everyday lives.

As the women grapple with their individual struggles—giving up breakfast, juggling jobs at rival presses, abandoning children, and retraining as stenographers—they share a collective awareness of the impending end of their institution. With a blend of humor and pathos, they realize the importance of making the most of their time together.

Women’s Hotel is a modern classic, reminiscent of the works of Dawn Powell and Rona Jaffe, filled with sharp wit and insight. It captures the spirit of a bygone era while celebrating the resilience and camaraderie of women forging their paths in a world ripe for change. This novel promises to leave readers both laughing and reflective, making it one of fall's most anticipated reads.