Ugh what's not to love about this book? I can only wish to have a group of friends so lovely, who also want to be in a book club and travel to wonderful places. This book had all of my favorite things: a cozy setting, great friends, and happily ever after. Perfect cozy winter story.

5/5 stars.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an e-arc of this book.

This was a cute story, but it was so predictable. It takes away from the cuteness of the story. I liked the setting in the hotel, though. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

@sarahmorganwrites is the new queen of holiday reads!! Always the perfect balance of drama and Christmas spirit ♥️🤍

This one was so good. Perfect cozy setting and great storylines for all the characters. Let’s not forget the prettiest cover 🥰

I always enjoy Sarah Morgan’s books when I’m in the mood for a cutesy romance read with strong friendships vibes. THE BOOK CLUB HOTEL was just that with an atmospheric winter setting at a quaint inn in Vermont with focuses on found family and familial relationships as well. Pick this one up on a snowy winter day if you’re in the mood for a Hallmark Christmas type book!

The Book Club Hotel

by Sarah Morgan

The title The Book Club Hotel certainly prepares the reader for a bookish read. Indeed, Sarah Morgan’s clean romance does have a book theme as a trio of college friends reunite yearly to relax, catch up, have fun, and discuss a chosen book. They are turning forty this year, and each is at a personal crossroad. Erica, who teaches crisis management to businesses all over the world has never managed to commit in a relationship. Her father had walked out of her life the day she was born. Her bitter mother raised her on the necessity of being independent. Claudia has just been abandoned by her boyfriend of ten years and has lost her job. Anna, known for her homemaking skills and perfect relationship with her husband Pete, is dealing with the impending departure of her twins as they prepare to leave the “nest” to fly off to college.

The story is set at the Maple Sugar Inn in Vermont, an idyllic setting at Christmas time. Claudia and Anna are puzzled by Erica’s choice of a rural Christmasy locale for this year’s getaway. It is very out-of-character for the unromantic Erica. There must be some secret agenda behind her selection.

The lives of these three women intersect with that of the owner of the Maple Sugar Inn. Hattie, a young widow, is the mother of a sweet and precocious little five year old girl Delphi. Their dog Rufus adds fun to the tale which revolves around the trio’s friendship, Erica’s draw to the inn, drama over two bad tempered employees who try to control the inn and its owner, and a handsome, kind Christmas tree and organic food farmer who lives next door. It’s a good read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Rating: 5/5

Category: Fiction, Women’s Fiction

Notes: An unexpected bonus for me is that the book has a strong
Christmas theme with decorations, snow, hot chocolate, and traditions.

Publication: September 19, 2023—Harlequin

Memorable Lines:

“It’s hardly a gift at all. It’s a book, and my sister and I think of a book as a necessity rather than a luxury.” “A necessity is something you need,” Gwen said, “like food or water.” …”Books can take you to a different world.”

Books were her hobby. Reading kept her going. …all Anna had to do to relax was pick up a book and she was immediately transported to another world.

“What do you think of this dress?” “It’s too black. It needs more glitter. Or maybe feathers. I have some in my art box. We could stick them on.” Glitter? Feathers? That was what happened when you asked a five-year-old for fashion advice.

Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra

The Book Club Hotel was bound to be a hit with me as I love reading, I am in a book club, Christmas is a favourite time of year for me and I really enjoy the writing of Sarah Morgan (though to date I have only read two books, soon to be rectified 🙂 . So, I am pleased to report that I could not put this book down – it captivated me so much. Furthermore, this was the January 2024 read for the Page Turners Book Club (for which I am a member).

The story begins with three besties (Erica Chapman, Claudia Price and Anna Walker) getting together over the holiday season to have a “girlfriends’ book club holiday”. They choose a quaint inn, Maple Sugar Inn, located in Vermont. The inn is run by a widower of two years, Hattie Coleman (mother to a five-year-old daughter, Delphi) and this holiday season is going to be a challenge. Especially since Chef Tucker is being difficult (to say the least) and the head housekeeper Stephanie is threatening to walk out.

Each of the three besties have recently had some life “challenges” which have not necessarily been shared amongst each other and the constant hiding is difficult. Luckily, as the story progresses, each explain in detail what is going on in their lives (and each situation was interesting and so like the issues we have in everyday life) and they each support and encourage each other. They just needed time together to reconnect and re-establish their “bestie” bond and not let life and expectations get in the way of confiding in each other. The support of good friends always makes life’s challenges easier.

Hattie has challenges of her own this holiday season. First and foremost a temperamental chef, who should be fired…and then the head housekeeper with a big chip on her shoulder. Both of whom need to be replaced in short order. Luckily, the book club gals lend a helping hand. And there are some additional twists in the story, but I shall leave discussing for so that the reader can discover them on their own, as I did. These challenges added some depth to what is an otherwise easy holiday based read.

I liked (okay maybe liked is a bit on an overstatement) the slow progression of Hattie and Noah Peterson. It seemed a wee bit too slow for me, but then, who am I to judge how long the healing process takes when one is widowed? I am glad that Hattie was finally able to acknowledge both her feelings for Noah and that she knows Noah has reciprocating feelings back. It is tough being a single mom in these types of situations. I felt that part of the story line was well written. I did like Noah’s mom trying to push these two slow pokes together though J. Trust a mom to know what is best for her son. And the way that Noah interacted with Hattie’s daughter was just priceless. He seemed to always know what to say.

While the “book club” aspect of the story was actually quite minimal, I really liked the idea of the book club members going away on vacation to discuss the book. And the description of the library in the hotel – seemed like the perfect place for a book club to meet! And who doesn’t like Vermont in the winter?

If you like Hallmark movies, then this is the book for you. The Book Club Hotel is a feel good, romance driven at times story that hits all the marks. A scenic location with just the right amount of snow for wintertime, interesting protagonists with a bit of angst and romance all with a HEA ending for each of the women. And speaking of Hallmark movies – would love to see this story made into one!

If your thoughts lead you to think that this is a quaint love story set at a magical hotel, you aren't far off from the truth. This book is a feel good holiday read with some trauma to sort through and books to read. I wish I could go to a hotel just for a book club now!

A solid 4 star read. With age come changes for the trio in this book it means significant changes with turning 40. Book club is a great way to meet up in a nice hotel yearly. Being a widow is stressful and scary. Change can bring about amazing experiences.


*************I received an ARC from NetGalley for my honest opinion.***********

I received this book complimentary from NetGalley but all opinions are my own.

I enjoyed this! The characters were rich in detail but not obnoxious. I liked the setting and the plot. I’d love to visit a snowy inn in winter with my partner. I’ll have to arrange that this winter. And in a book club? Please and thank you.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book.
This was a really wonderful story!

Three women, all with their own struggles: Anna the empty-nester, Erica taking next steps in her relationship, and Claudia losing a job. Hattie is envious of their relationships. She wants to be a part of their group, one with real friendship and real love.

The setting of this book was so cozy and fun, which helped balance the darker or deeper theme of lifelong friendships and new ones too.

Hattie runs the Maple Sugar Inn by herself with the help of her staff since the passing of her husband. She didn’t plan to be widowed in her twenties or to be raising her daughter alone with no family to turn to.

Erica, Claudia, and Anna have been best friends since college and usually meet for their book club holiday during the summer months, but this year their vacation is happening just before Christmas. All three have other things on their mind aside from the book they’ve chosen—Anna can’t stop thinking about the empty nest she will have soon, due to downsizing Claudia no longer has a job to return to and Erica thinks she might like to take the next step with a casual friend. They have been there for each other through it all and Hattie can’t help but be a bit envious of the friendship her guests have with each other.

Before the week is done, will Hattie be welcomed into their inner circle? Is it possible that the library at the Maple Sugan Inn might be a place that Erica, Claudia, and Anna return to for future holiday book club meetups?

I really enjoyed this novel and the idea that sometimes people come into your life when you least expect it and leave a lasting impression. The cozy library at the Maple Sugar Inn sounds like the perfect place to meet up for book club. I love the idea of old friends reuniting and discussing books while vacationing at the same time!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for allowing me to read an ARC of this novel. #NetGalley #TheBookClubHotel

"The Book Club Hotel" by Sarah Morgan is an enchanting escape into the world of books and friendship. As a bibliophile, I was instantly drawn to the quaint setting of The Book Club Hotel, where books are the heart and soul of the community. Morgan crafts a story brimming with warmth, humor, and relatable characters who find solace, healing, and connection within the pages of beloved novels. With its cozy atmosphere and endearing cast, this novel celebrates the transformative power of literature and the bonds formed through shared stories. A delightful read that left me longing for my own literary getaway.

Earlier this month I needed a cozy, comfort read despite our warm weather, and snowy, frosty cover and climate, Sarah Morgan's The Book Club Hotel fit the bill. I could relate in some way to each of the characters, and the setting was charming. It totally makes me want to find friends like sisters who innately understand the appeal of a picturesque getaway with a good book for some distance from real life, support through our worries, and good conversation and snacks. A cozy heartwarming story!

Absolutely fantastic plot! Could not put the book down once I began reading it. Made me want to just curl up with a blanket and keep reading.

The Book Club Hotel was a charming and cozy story that is full of Christmas joy! Many questions and so much character development as three best friends – who are total opposites – visit a Christmasy Inn for their yearly book club. This is a multiple POV between four women as they embark on turning points in all of their lives.

There are some obvious twists that I could see coming, but was so full of warmth that it was still a very enjoyable read. You can always count on a good story by Sarah Morgan – I've been reading her stories for quite a few years now!

Synopsis

Young widow, Hattie Coleman, is exhausted with the daily drudgery of running the picturesque Maple Sugar Inn, but she can’t bring herself to abandon her late husband’s dream. Can three strangers show her how to start living for herself and build a new future?

My Overall Thoughts

The story is heartwarming and the characters are well developed, if a bit trite. It’s a soothing, winter read to while away a snow day with in front of a warm fire with a hot cup of tea. You probably won’t remember it by spring, but that isn’t really the point.

What I Didn't Love

It’s a Hallmark movie in book form. I can’t fault if for being formulaic. That is the point, after all. However, I would have loved a bit more substance and maybe a small surprise or two.

What I Loved

This is a reader’s book. The characters are book lovers and the inn features a library I could spend a week in. The imagery is spectacular.

I Would Recommend This Book To

I would recommend this book to female readers wanting a light, cozy, winter read.

I absolutely loved this book! Sarah Morgan always writes amazing female friendships in her books and the store in this book was wonderfully executed. I loved every word of this book!!!
I just reviewed The Book Club Hotel by Sarah Morgan. #TheBookClubHotel #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]

You're in for a treat with Sarah Morgan's "The Book Club Hotel"! Picture this: three lifelong friends – Erica, Claudia, and Anna – embarking on their annual book club getaway to a New England winterwonderland.

These ladies are all successful in their own ways, but there's a sense of unease lingering among them this time around, and even Hattie, the propieteress at the Sugar Maple Inn, can sense it.

As the week progresses, the author peels back the layers of each woman's struggles, revealing secrets that even their closest friends aren't aware of. But it's the unraveling of these secrets that holds the promise of changing their lives in profound ways.

With seamless storytelling, "The Book Club Hotel" effortlessly weaves together four captivating storylines against the backdrop of stunning scenery, interesting characters, and plenty of intrigue. It's a journey you won't want to miss!

Book Review: The Book Club Hotel by Sarah Morgan

Thank you to NetGalley and Canary Street Press for the opportunity to read this entertaining and heartwarming book in exchange for an honest review and opinion.

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.

When Hattie’s husband dies unexpectedly, she is left with not only a young daughter but with the responsibility of running the Inn by herself – a herculean task while processing her own grief. She wants to make a success of it but is caught up in thinking that she shouldn’t make any changes from Brett’s prior plan and his original wishes – even though she doesn’t always agree with them. She is a really strong woman but lacks confidence as she always deferred to her husband in running the Inn. She is also exhausted from trying to do everything herself.

When three women arrive at the Inn for their annual book club retreat, she gains strength through their friendship and ideas. Anna, Claudia and Erica have been friends since college and enjoy a warm, supportive relationship with each other that rubs off on Hattie. Each of the women is dealing with her own issues and take comfort from each other as they slowly reveal to the others what they are dealing with.

All in all, it is a heartwarming, charming novel that is a perfect read for a winter afternoon.