In the Rooms

by Tom Shone

British literary agent Patrick Miller is having his doubts about moving to New York. After all, he moved for Caitlyn, and she’s already dumped him. And his job? Well, that’s not so secure right now. If only. . .

Patrick has the opportunity of a lifetime when he spots his literary hero, Douglas Kelsey, on the streets of the city. Kelsey, like many formerly successful writers, has become reclusive. Nobody’s heard from him in years. Now Patrick has found him, and he’s not letting him out of his sight.

Patrick cannot help but to wonder if Kelsey has another novel to publish. Additionally, he cannot resist the opportunity to meet his favorite author. So, he follows Kelsey into a building and discovers a secret about Kelsey: he is an alcoholic. And, yes, Patrick has followed him into an AA meeting.

Patrick continues to attend meetings, hoping to strike up a book deal with Kelsey. In the process, he meets a cast of alcoholic characters and learns a secret about himself.

This is a great novel about New York, the culture of AA, and the book biz. There is a lot of honesty and humor in this clever and engaging story.

Loved it!

6/6/11