This book was like a big hug that gave me all the warm fuzzy feelings!

If you’re looking for a super lighthearted pick me up read - THIS is the one!

It was like chatting with my besties, curled up in front of a fire in a wintery Christmas town with a glass (or bottle) of wine and delicious cheeses 🍷 🧀

I didn’t even think I was a big wine and cheese fan, but after reading this I want to have that for dinner nightly 😂

Adorable story. Heartwarming and total feel good vibes. It was a quick and enjoyable read!

I did the listened to the audiobook and the narration was so well done! 🎧

I’m going to start this review with a warning - this book may give you the urge to go out and stock up on wine, cheese, and chocolates. Now onto the story itself. This was all about second opportunities in life whether a second chance at love with a previous partner or taking a new chance on love after having your heart broken. This did have all the makings of a Hallmark movie-esque read with the reconnections, new connections, business miracles, and everything happens for a reason vibes. This story focused on a few different characters’ lives and while Franny was one of the lesser main characters, I actually loved her storyline the most. I’m also a sucker for books about book lovers, so the book club and book store moments really worked for me. The one issue I had with this story is that everything felt like it moved too rapidly. It felt like most of the focus was on the slower moments in building connections to all of a sudden major life changes are happening in the span of a few chapters. I read this via audiobook and thought the narration matched the sweet vibes of the story perfectly. I would recommend the audiobook to enhance the Hallmark movie vibes.

Overall Rating: 3.5⭐️

The Christmas Inn is a beautiful story of family, friends, grief, second chances, and leaps of faith. Pamela M Kelley weaves family and loss along with a gentle approach to romance. I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by Stephanie Németh-Parker. She did a great job with each character she portrayed. From young to old, Ms. Németh-Parker brought the characters to life, adding another dimension to this wonderful story. Women’s fiction isn’t really my thing, but I loved the sweet simpleness of The Christmas Inn.

The Christmas Inn by Pamela Kelley AUDIO/Print is a charming story, just as are all of Kelly’s books. Riley Sanders had just been called into a meeting and been laid off, as had her entire department. The company was just going to use AI to create content in the future. She was having trouble getting her head around it. She responded by packing a suitcase, grabbing her cat, and taking off for the Cape. She could spend some time with her mother. Her mom had bought an inn and Riley thought she was crazy, but her mom was really happy. Since this was all happening in the weeks before Christmas, she could help out there, apply for any job she saw, and wait until the new year to get serious. That turned out to be a decent plan. She even helped her mom out with some marketing. Others in the small town saw what she was doing and requested her help, too.

Riley had a boyfriend., Jack. He was a very busy lawyer and she only saw him once a week, twice in a good week. He came up one weekend to meet her family but that didn’t really work out. It turns out that Aiden, her high school boyfriend and his young son were staying at the inn while some work was done at their house. She was happy to see an old friend and enjoyed their time together. She applied for two jobs, one at the law firm Jack worked at. She wasn’t sure about that, but went ahead anyway. Riley was a really likable woman, at a crossroads in her life. She thought she knew what she wanted, but maybe she was wrong. We were with her while she decided. It was a fun book. Not a huge plot, but entertaining, and Christmasy.

Stephanie Nemeth-Parker was the narrator and her voice was well-suited to this kind of light romance. She did an excellent job with the main characters as well as those who just flitted through. It is a toss-up which is the better way: reading or listening. Whatever you are comfortable with, just don’t miss this story.

I was invited to read The Christmas Inn by St Martin’s Press and to listen by MacMillan Audio. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #MacMillanAudio #PamelaKelley #StephanieNemethParker #TheChristmasInn

The Christmas Inn by Pamela M. Kelley; Narrated by Stephanie Németh-Parker


The story opens with Riley walking back to the office in a snowstorm, “...first snowfall made her want to go home, curl up on the sofa and watch a Hallmark movie.” This sets the atmosphere of this novel and is the perfect book to sit up and curl with during the holiday season, sitting in front of a fireplace blazing with warmth, watching snowflakes out of the window, completes the picture.

Instead of that cozy sofa, Riley returns to the office and loses her job, being replaced by AI. Given the timing of the layoff (holiday season), she decides to visit her mom earlier than planned. She had broken her leg and needed some help with the inn on the Cape. There also seems to be some brewing ambivalence about boyfriend in NY as well, so he isn’t exactly holding her back.

The cozy inn, finding her old high school flame temporarily living at the Inn with his son, the upcoming holiday and Christmas stroll, snow, fireplaces…we have all the makings of a Hallmark movie.

This is a story of endings and beginnings, relationships, and what it really means to be home. Kelley creates a sweet picture of Chatham and the cape. There is the community Riley’s mom has created for herself – family, friends and the friendly atmosphere she creates at her Inn. And we see the stirring of fond, memories of what was left behind for a few of the characters returning for the holiday season. This novel is full of lovely descriptions of community and events – Christmas stroll, gatherings for food – at home, at the inn and at restaurants w/old and new friends, and family.

Thank you to NetGalley; Pamela M. Kelly, MacMillan Audio and narrator, Stephanie Németh-Parker, for the advanced copy.

Review in Goodreads; link below
Amazon after pub. date.

3.5 ⭐️

This read follows the love story of 3 ladies, Riley is the main (in her late 20s/early 30s) with Beth (in her 50s) and Franny (golden years), as they rekindle or find love. Set in a Hallmark perfect town, in their Hallmark perfect B&B, we get to watch these very cute ladies find their matches. It's very sweet. It's very G rated and you know the HEAs coming from the beginning. The audiobook is a great format to consider - the narrator was good. I didn't have any complaints. This sugary-sweet Christmas comfort read is a perfect option if you want a mild Hallmark movie-like read.

Thank you to NetGalley, Pamela M Kelley, and Macmillan audio for the audiobook ARC.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6855757055

Riley loses her job right before Christmas. She has a really good outlook and a savings to hold her through the next few months. Her mom had a fall and broke her leg. Riley is able to help her mom at her Bed and Breakfast. While there, she is able to reconnect with her family and an old flame. She also meets and befriends visitors of the B&B.

I really enjoyed the way the narrator took to this script/story. She had so much inflection and passion. I loved the characters and the scenery. I would love to visit that town and B&B.

Thank you for the copy, this is my honest opinion.

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley, for the free copy for review.

Get ready to be swept off your feet by a holiday romance that's as cozy as your favorite Christmas sweater and as heartwarming as a mug of hot cocoa on a snowy evening. "The Christmas Inn" by Ms. Kelly is a delightful tale of second chances and rediscovering life's true treasures, all wrapped up in a picturesque small-town bow.

For those of us who can't resist the charm of a quaint village during the holidays, this book is a gift that keeps on giving. The story revolves around a small inn that's more inviting than Santa's workshop, populated by a cast of characters you'll wish were your next-door neighbors.

Ms. Kelly's true gift lies in her ability to weave relationships tighter than a Christmas wreath. Family bonds are explored with the tenderness of a Hallmark card and the authenticity of a hand-knitted scarf. The rekindling of old friendships and the spark of new romances are described with such warmth, you'll feel like you're right there in the inn's cozy living room, watching it all unfold by the fireplace.

This book isn't just a story; it's a celebration of all things that make the holidays special – community, love, and the magic of new beginnings. It's the literary equivalent of finding the perfect gift for someone you love – unexpected, joyful, and utterly satisfying.

So far, really enjoying my holiday reading binge and definitely filling up on some holiday fun, romance and some family craziness. The book summary pretty much lays out the start of the story. For Riley, there’s nothing like going back home to Cape Cod after getting laid off from her NYC job because she was replaced by AI. As luck would have it, Riley’s mom, Beth, broke her leg while tending to her Cape Cod B&B and is struggling with keeping the Inn full lately. Alas, super marketing whiz, Riley, home for the holidays to help out while Beth is on the mend. Riley does her marketing magic and voilà, reservations start coming in.

Can’t have a holiday romance story without a hunky widower or any other male who is single as a pringle. This hunk happens to be, Aiden, Riley’s high school sweetheart, who she dumped after graduation, before going off to college, because she had no intention of coming back to Cape Cod after college. Aiden, who did come back after college, so that he could take over his father’s accounting firm, so his parents could retire – to AZ, where millions of other east coast retirees flock to. Aiden married a townie and they had a son, Luke. His wife died three years earlier. Aiden and Luke are staying at the Inn through Christmas because of some unexpected home repairs. Aiden has decided that he and Luke are going to skip Christmas this year, unbeknownst to Luke.

Most of the story revolves around updating the promotion, branding and marketing of the Inn to get reservations back up to what they used to be. There are also the issues Riley is having with long-time boyfriend, Jack, who is a workaholic, much to Riley’s concern and displeasure. Riley and Beth have also decided to make this Christmas a special one for Luke, in spite of Aiden’s resistance. The guests at the Inn are a wonderful addition to the story, especially, Franny, an elderly woman who just lost her beloved sister and is mired in grief. Her sister left her some letters, messages about how to move on.

This story, including the romance sections, was kind of slow and a little bland; very G-rated for those that like to know that kind of stuff. There wasn’t even much drama until deep into the second half. The ending was nice and wrapped up the story in a big, pretty bow. The second half was better than the first half, which saved this story from a disappointing rating.

The character development of most of the characters was fairly good. The pacing was really slow, with the second half being a little better than the first half. The storyline was ok, once again, the second half was a little better than the first. The writing was fine, but one of the most surprising and funny things about the story were the recipes that Beth and Riley made for the Inn guests. I actually wrote a few of them down to try out. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.25 that I will be rounding down to a 3star review. I want to thank NetGalley, St Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

#NetGalley #StMartinsPress #MacmillanAudio #TheChristmasInn

This is a sweet Christmas-y book about three women who all find new paths. Riley was laid off right before Christmas- her job is going to be done by AI moving forward. She heads to her childhood home on Cape Cod to regroup and help her mother. Her mom runs and inn and just broke her leg. She could use the help. And then, Franny, one of the guests, just lost her sister. Her sister asked for her to stick around their hometown for a few weeks. Over that time, Franny remembers all of the good memories she had on the Cape.

I enjoyed this book about Christmas on Cape Cod. It is fluff, but enjoyable fluff. This type of book is never going to be a five star read for me, but I do enjoy them. My reason is mainly they tend to be overly detailed. I do not need descriptions of every outfit everyone wears and everything they eat.

Now, my real complaint here is with marketing. This is not a romance. Stop marketing these books as romance. Is there some minor romance? Sure. But with this one in particular, <spoiler> Riley is in a long term relationship until the very end!!! NOT A ROMANCE. </spoiler>

Stephanie Németh-Parker narrates the audiobook. She always does a great job.

I received an advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review.

If you’re craving a heartwarming, feel-good story set against the backdrop of a Cape Cod Christmas, The Christmas Inn by Pamela Kelley is the perfect choice. As comforting as a cozy blanket and hot cocoa on a cold day, this book is a delightful blend of personal growth, second-chance romance, and the magic of the holidays.

The story follows Riley Sanders, who unexpectedly finds herself without a job just before Christmas. When she learns that her mom has broken her leg, she decides to head home to Cape Cod to help out with the family inn. The inn is charmingly set along the shores, and Riley hopes the change of scenery—and her family—will provide a much-needed distraction from her troubles.

Little does she know, her mother’s inn isn’t faring as well as expected, especially with the holiday rush approaching. The guest list is shorter than anticipated, but among the handful staying at the inn are some key characters—Aidan, Riley’s high school sweetheart, and his son Luke, who are temporarily living at the inn while their home undergoes renovations. There’s also Franny, who is grieving the loss of her sister and carrying four unopened letters meant to help guide her through a new chapter in life.

Kelley does a fantastic job of capturing all the cozy, festive vibes of Christmas on Cape Cod. From the crackling fires to the festive cookies, the setting alone makes you want to book a holiday escape. While the storyline is predictable in the best kind of way, I found myself enjoying every moment of it.

I particularly loved how Franny’s journey paralleled Riley’s in its own quiet way. Franny’s inner conflict between returning to her life in Manhattan or staying in Cape Cod felt authentic and meaningful. It’s a story of growth, love, and finding what matters most. The romantic subplots, especially between Riley and Aidan, are sweet and believable—they add to the holiday magic without feeling forced.

I also enjoyed all the holiday activities described at the inn and in the community. The festivities added to the cozy, nostalgic feeling and gave me all the holiday feels, even though I was reading this in September!

The Narration:

I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Stephanie Németh-Parker, whose performance was absolutely lovely. Her voice had a gentle, comforting tone, and she did a wonderful job giving each character a distinct voice, making the whole experience feel like I was wrapped in a warm blanket.

Final Thoughts:

The Christmas Inn is a heartwarming read that’s sure to lift your spirits, whether you’re in the mood for holiday cheer or just looking for a feel-good escape.

#BookReview : The Christmas Inn by Pamela M. Kelley (audiobook)

This was a great first audiobook experience through NetGalley. I listened to the entire book and enjoyed the narrator's performance. The story was a heartwarming Christmas romance with a Hallmark movie setting. It's a feel-good story. I appreciated how Riley was eager to help her mom with the bed and breakfast. The characters were likeable and the romance, sweet.

This was also my first book by the author and it won't be my last.

Thank you netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Rating: 4 stars

This one was a delightful surprise.

Riley Sanders just lost her job in Manhattan, right before Christmas, and she goes back home to Chatham to help her mother with her Bed & Breakfast during the holidays while she begins to job hunt. There are a couple of other endearing female characters and some romantic threads going on, and this book would make an excellent Christmas movie—-heartwarming!

I really enjoyed the story and I look forward to more from this author. I listened to the audiobook, and the narration was so good! I want to go to Chatham!

Four twinkly stars for this one!

I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook from NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

A sweet Christmas romance that covers three generations. First love, old love and new love. All center around a typical small town Christmas. Riley lost her job in New York and returns home to help her mom who broke her leg with the inn she owns. Things are slow at the inn and Riley using her business experience revamps the marketing. A surprise for her was that her old boyfriend and is son were staying at the inn. With the new marketing ideas the inn is sold out and Riley and Aidan along with his son Luke and fellow guest Franny and of course her mom bond together during happy hour.
As life takes them different ways they always return and strengthen the friendship that develops over a glass of wine. I did enjoy the audiobook and also read it. The narrator was very good, I felt like I could smell the meals being cooked. Thank you for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own. #TheChristmasInn

Christmas stories are my absolute favorites and this one sure hit the mark. I also have a soft spot for books involving inns. It always brings characters into the book that have their own different backgrounds and stories.

Riley has come back home to help her mother run the inn while she recovers from a broken leg. Staying at the Christmas Inn is an older woman living out quests from letters left her by her deceased sister. There is Aiden (Riley's old boyfriend) and his young son. Could there still be something there between them? Other character help round out the entertaining cast.

I alternated between the digital and the audio version of this book narrated by Stephanie Nemeth-Parker. The narration was excellent and just what I hope for in a Christmas book. The voices were easily distinguishable and pleasant to listen to.

Thanks to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for the copies. All thoughts are my own.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. This was the perfect book to get me in the season. Pamela M. Kelley is an auto read auto for me and this book was adorable.

Give me all the holiday romance, yes even in September, I’m always a sucker for a Hallmark style read and this one delivered exactly that vibe. I loved the Cape Cod setting which was primarily at an inn and I really enjoyed the cast of characters. Riley and her mom interact with a sweet group of characters who are staying at the inn and I liked them all but Franny the most, she was such a sweet woman. There were lots of food descriptions, I feel like people either love or hate that and I enjoy it so heads up there but overall this was a delightful little holiday romance that was fantastic on audio and provided me with such a sweet escape. The narrator is a longtime favorite for me and she was so engaging and entertaining.

The Christmas Inn
by: Pamela M. Kelley
narrator: Stephanie Nemeth-Parker
Macmillan Audio
Pub date: Sept. 24, 2024
Romance / Women's Fiction

Listening to the audiobook of The Christmas Inn is as satisfying as the hot chocolate and tea served at the inn during the Christmas season. Kelley had me cheering for all of her main characters, including Riley, who returns to Cape Cod to help her mother Beth, the innkeeper, after she breaks her leg. I was engrossed in the holiday feelings experienced at a warm, cozy inn with a Cape Cod setting.

Kelley's gentle writing style is so descriptive and engaging, from the food and events at the Chatham Coastal Inn, to the Christmas atmosphere in the community. I especially enjoyed the relationship building of the story, with family, new friends, and second chances at romance. Narrator Stephanie Nemeth-Parker is a favorite, and I was happy to hear her expressive voice deliver this lovable story to me.

I received an advance listener's copy from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio. My review is my own.

This is the book you've been waiting for! Multigenerational look at life, love and loss with a dose of second chances and starting over mixed in. Set around the Christmas season so brew up a cup of cocoa, coffee or hot cinnamon tea to set the mood and dive into the book! However, I must warn you that you need to make sure that you block the day off so you can spend it wrapped up in the lives of characters in this book as you won't want to put the book down for even a second! The characters are extremely well thought out with unique personalities, quirks, insecurities and charm to make them relatable and realistic. They will draw you into the story and keep you invested to the last word! FYI: If you like audiobooks, this book is available in audio and the narration is outstanding as well. The narrator does an amazing job of taking a well written book and bringing it even further to life. So, whether you prefer to read the book yourself or you like a narrator to do it for you, you can't go wrong with grabbing this book! I'm already planning on making this the book that I give to my reader friends for Christmas this year. The plot is well thought out, heartwarming and engaging! I can't wait for this author to create another world for me to fall into!

A Hallmark movie in book form.

This was very cute, and totally got me in the mood for the holiday season. Overall, it was super sweet and a nice introduction to the holidays.

This is definitely a book for the Hallmark movie lovers.