Hotel Raphael

by Rachael Boast
Hotel Raphael cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Poetry
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Paperback • £5.50
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Technical
  • ID: 2288
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9781529037548
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2021-05-13
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Hotel Raphael is a collection of poems that navigates the complexities of chronic illness and global crises, seeking solace in the natural world and the works of artists, writers, and filmmakers. The poems explore themes of suffering, resilience, and the search for healing, drawing parallels with the biblical figure of Job and the patron saint Raphael, who is associated with travelers and healing. /n/n Through vivid imagery and introspective reflection, Boast's work delves into the personal and universal aspects of pain, offering a poignant and transformative journey. The collection serves as a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and find meaning amidst adversity.

Reviews
The High Window · Clifton Redmond · 2021-09-18
compelling 4.00

Clifton Redmond praises Hotel Raphael for its nuanced exploration of chronic illness and personal struggle.

Clifton Redmond's review delves into the emotional landscape of Hotel Raphael, appreciating how Rachael Boast intertwines the physical and emotional journeys. The collection is noted for its raw honesty and poetic craftsmanship, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate lyrical depth.

Quick quotes

    Rachael Boast's Hotel Raphael reviewed by Clifton Redmond.

    Hotel Raphael by Rachael Boast. £10.99. Picador.

    ISBN: 9781529037531.

The Guardian · 2021-05-14
outstanding 4.50

The Guardian highlights Hotel Raphael as their poem of the month, praising its vivid journey and emotional depth.

The Guardian's selection of Hotel Raphael as their poem of the month is a testament to the book's impact. It's a collection that takes readers on a powerful journey, exploring themes of heat, drought, and pain, all while maintaining a poetic elegance that resonates deeply.

Quick quotes

    Hotel Raphael sees Boast, our only true English Symbolist, describe a moving and vivid journey.

    From Hotel Raphael by Rachael Boast (Picador, £10.99).

    Hotel Raphael charts a journey through heat, drought and pain.

Waterstones · 2021-05-13
moving 4.00

Waterstones praises Hotel Raphael for its extraordinary portrayal of pain and resilience.

Waterstones highlights Hotel Raphael as a remarkable collection that not only explores the realities of chronic illness but also offers a poetic reflection on how to embrace pain without erasing its source. It's a powerful and moving read that lingers in the mind long after the final page.

Quick quotes

    Hotel Raphael sees Boast compose an extraordinary travelling song, one that shows us how to bear our pain without trying to erase its source.

    Hotel Raphael, Rachael Boast's fourth collection, charts a journey through heat, drought and pain.

    Describes not only the reality of chronic illness, but also the resilience of the human spirit.

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