Hotel K

by Kathryn Bonella
Hotel K cover
Good Books rating 4.75
True Crime
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 2855
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780857384607
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2011-02-03
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Hotel K, or Hotel Kerobokan, is Bali's most notorious jail, a place where the beauty of paradise contrasts sharply with the horrors within. The book delves into the lives of its inmates, from petty thieves to hardened criminals, and exposes the rampant corruption and violence that permeates the prison. It's a place where sex nights are organized by corrupt guards, ecstasy factories operate freely, and luxury upgrades can be bought with cash. The truth about the dark heart of Bali is laid bare in this shocking exposé. /n/nThe book is not just about the crimes committed but also about the systemic failures and the human stories behind the bars. It's a chilling account of how desperation, corruption, and the allure of paradise collide in a place that is both a prison and a microcosm of Bali's underbelly. The narrative is filled with tales of escapes, killings disguised as suicides, and the stark reality of life inside one of the world's most infamous jails.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-16
insightful 4.50

The book is well-researched and written, with an appreciated epilogue that provides updates on the inmates' lives.

The reviewer commends the book for its thorough research and engaging writing style. They particularly appreciate the 'where are they now' epilogue, which adds a layer of closure and continued interest in the inmates' stories. The book is seen as a well-rounded and informative piece that effectively brings the readers into the world of Hotel K.

Quick quotes

    Hotel K is well researched and well written

    I appreciated the 'where are they now' epilogue at the end

    a shocking and captivating read

Ecency · Sanguine Haze · 2021-03-04
fascinating 4.75

The book is described as one of the most interesting non-fiction books, offering a shocking look inside Bali's notorious jail.

The reviewer finds the book to be one of the most interesting non-fiction works they have ever read. They highlight the shocking and detailed look inside Bali's most notorious jail, which is both captivating and disturbing. The book's ability to provide a raw and unfiltered perspective on the conditions and experiences within Hotel K is particularly praised.

Quick quotes

    a 'shocking look inside Bali's most notorious jail'

    one of the most interesting non-fiction books I've ever read

    the most notorious one at the time

Waterstones · 2012-02-02
outstanding 5.00

The book is praised for its outstanding portrayal of true accounts of inmates. It is described as intriguing down to the last page.

The reviewer highlights the book's excellent portrayal of true accounts of inmates, making it a gripping read. They appreciate the detailed and shocking insights into the horrific conditions and experiences within Hotel K. The book's ability to maintain intrigue throughout is particularly noted, making it a standout piece of non-fiction.

Quick quotes

    an outstanding book

    intriguing down to the last page

    an excellent portrayal of true accounts of inmates and horrific

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