Review of The Doorman by Chris Pavone
When a book promises to marry the escapades of Bonfire of the Vanities with the tension of Die Hard, my intrigue is piqued. Enter Chris Pavone, whose latest novel, The Doorman, swiftly became a captivating ride through the glittering corridors and shadowy recesses of New York City’s wealthiest apartments. As a blogger who thrives on stories that reflect the absurdities of our modern age, this one spoke to me on several resonant frequencies.
Set against the backdrop of the iconic Bohemia Apartments on Park Avenue, Pavone’s narrative unfolds as a potent critique of class and privilege. Our titular doorman, a figure often overlooked and underappreciated, is thrust into a world of escalating tension and impending violence. The novel paints a vividly layered picture of a building where the rich wield their money like weapons, and the staff—those the wealthy deem invisible—navigate their lives with a blend of wit and sarcasm.
What sets The Doorman apart is its array of deeply developed characters. Using a rotating narrative, Pavone gives noticeable weight to each voice, from a despairing art dealer grappling with a dire medical prognosis to a penthouse couple trapped in a loveless marriage by their ironclad prenup. It’s a world where everyone has something to hide and where their socio-economic positions frame their narratives. I particularly appreciated the authenticity with which Pavone sketched each character, creating a tapestry of human experience that felt both personal and universal.
Pavone’s writing style shines brightly, marked by sharp dialogue and keen observations that bring humor even against a backdrop of somber realities. There’s a particularly striking moment when he contrasts scenes of violence with absurdity, showcasing how the characters waltz around their precarious dilemmas—a doorman clad in jeans, wielding a semi-automatic, accompanying a tuxedo-clad man splattered in blood. Such vivid imagery lingers long after turning the page.
And then there’s the poignant introspection woven into the narrative. One of my favorite quotes encapsulates a central theme: “Life can look like a series of foregone decisions…each of us the hero of our own inconsequential little story.” This reflection captures the essence of our collective circumstances—a chaotic dance of decisions and chance, forcing us to confront our roles in this absurd theatre of life. This insight struck a personal chord, reminding me of the narratives we construct to make sense of our own experiences.
If you’re searching for a book that tackles the heavy themes of greed, love, and social disparity while maintaining an engaging, often humorous tone, The Doorman would be an enlightening pick. It invites readers to reflect on their insecurities and aspirations, slyly inviting them to chuckle at the absurdities of current affairs.
In conclusion, The Doorman isn’t just another thriller; it’s a mirror reflecting the complexities of modern life, one that both entertains and provokes thought. If you find yourself yearning for a read that combines sharp social commentary with an entertaining plot, this book is for you. I left the pages contemplating the author’s insights, and I suspect you might too.
So, if you enjoy rich character-driven narratives infused with wit and wisdom, don’t let The Doorman’s average title sway you—it’s a gem worth diving into. Happy reading!