A Heartwarming Holiday Tale of Friendship – Book Review of “The Book Club Hotel” by Sarah Morgan

“The Book Club Hotel” takes readers on a heartwarming journey to Vermont’s Maple Sugar Inn, where four women’s lives intertwine in a tale of friendship, holiday magic, and new beginnings.

From The Publisher:

With its historic charm and picture-perfect library, the Maple Sugar Inn is considered the winter destination. As the holidays approach, the inn is fully booked with guests looking for their dream vacation. But widowed far too young, and exhausted from juggling the hotel with being a dedicated single mom, Hattie Coleman dreams only of making it through the festive season.

But when Erica, Claudia and Anna—lifelong friends who seem to have it all—check in for a girlfriends’ book club holiday, it changes everything. Their close friendship and shared love of books have carried them through life’s ups and downs. But Hattie can see they’re also packing some major emotional baggage, and nothing prepares her for how deeply her own story is about to become entwined in theirs. In the span of a week over the most enchanting time of the year, can these four women come together to improve each other’s lives and make this the start of a whole new chapter?

My Thoughts:

Sarah Morgan’s “The Book Club Hotel” is a delightful women’s fiction novel that envelops readers in the warmth of friendship and the magic of Christmas. Set in the charming Maple Sugar Inn in Vermont, this story weaves together the lives of four women who are each facing significant transitions in their lives.

At the center of it all is Hattie Coleman, a dedicated single mom trying to juggle the responsibilities of running the inn while raising her precocious and lovable five-year-old daughter. Hattie’s character is relatable and endearing, making her journey throughout the book all the more heartwarming.

One of the storylines in the book, reminiscent of “Miracle on 34th Street,” adds a touch of enchantment and Christmas magic to the narrative. As the holiday season unfolds, readers are treated to a flurry of festive activities that bring a smile to your face.

While the plot may follow a somewhat predictable path, it doesn’t diminish the joy and warmth that emanates from the story. It’s a testament to Sarah Morgan’s storytelling prowess that even when you see the twists coming, they still manage to tug at your heartstrings.

Friendship is a central theme in “The Book Club Hotel,” and Morgan beautifully explores the dynamics between the lifelong friends, Erica, Claudia, and Anna. Their camaraderie and shared love for books make their bond palpable, and you can’t help but root for their individual journeys.

Dara Rosenberg’s performance as the narrator of the audiobook adds another layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. Her tone and enthusiasm for the characters bring them to life, making the story even more engaging.

As a fan of Sarah Morgan’s work, I can confidently say that “The Book Club Hotel” lives up to her reputation as a talented author. The way she seamlessly blends Hattie’s storyline with those of Erica, Anna, and Claudia is a testament to her skill in crafting interconnected narratives.

In the end, “The Book Club Hotel” is a lovely women’s fiction holiday read that captures the essence of friendship, love, and the spirit of Christmas. It’s a heartwarming tale that will leave you with a warm glow and a smile on your face, making it a perfect choice for the holiday season.

Some Other Holiday Books I’ve Reviewed from Sarah Morgan:

Snowed In For Christmas

The Christmas Escape

One More For Christmas