Guests converge at the Vis Ta Vie inn for a weekend. The couple who own the inn are struggling to determine if there is any way to keep the doors open after losing their savings. The group of guests consists of 4 old college friends, a couple on the verge of divorce and a mother daughter duo - all the relationships are in some sort of crisis. Each comes to the inn with a connection to it, some have visited annually, some had important moments occur there. During the weekend secrets and past betrayals are revealed as the guests and the inn keepers support each other and try to fix broken relationships as well as begin new ones.

The set up of this one was a bit slow only because all of the characters, their histories and their connection to each other and the inn had to be introduced to the reader. I always enjoy a story where characters' lives intertwine in ways you cannot see at the onset of the novel. This one worked for me, I became invested in the characters and their relationships and I cared where their storyline would take them. Some things were a tad predictable but I it didn’t take away from my reading enjoyment. I thought the audiobook was great, but with so many characters and storylines, it was great to have the book to read as well. These guests brought their baggage to the inn and I enjoyed unpacking it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance for the ALC to review

There’s something magical about Rochelle B. Weinstein’s latest novel, WE ARE MADE OF STARS. Set at the picturesque Vis Ta Vie inn, she introduces us to Reneé and Jean-Paul De La Rue, the longtime innkeepers who are in danger of losing their beloved property after being swindled out of their life savings.

Their guests have troubles of their own. Lies, secrets, and betrayals threaten to destroy their carefully crafted facades. Relationships are fraying and choices loom.

This journey of discovery and redemption isn’t always easy or comfortable, but it illustrates that light can exist in darkness.

I alternated between the digital and audio versions. The full cast narration by Stephanie Németh-Parker, Ron Butler, David de Vries, Megan Tusing, Aasne Vigesaa, and Emily Lawrence is a delight and added to my enjoyment.

Thank you to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio for the advance copies in exchange for my unbiased review.

I can see why many people loved this book. The writing is beautiful, and the author really knows how to create vivid, relatable characters. The plot does have its moments of tension and drama, and while I personally found the characters a bit repetitive at times, I can appreciate the emotional depth they brought to the story. The way they interact with each other, though often seeming stuck in their problems, adds an interesting dynamic. For those who enjoy character-driven stories about personal growth and relationships, this book definitely has a lot to offer.

Really great!!!

Synopsis: As Reneé and Jean-Paul De La Rue face the decision to close their beloved inn, they welcome a group of guests who each carrying their own struggles and hidden truths.

Thoughts: I loved how Weinstein masterfully intertwined the guests’ narratives, each with their own complex and layered backstories. The multiple perspectives seamlessly wove together, culminating in poignant decisions about whether to move forward or let go. Plus, the enchanting French countryside setting and the mouthwatering descriptions of the meals made me feel completely immersed in the warmth of the inn. I now definitely have to go read more of Weinstein's backlist!!

I went into this book completely blind after having seen a few of my favorite authors raving about it on Instagram and ended up really enjoying it. The beginning of the book was a bit slow to me and felt more like a character driven novel but then it picked up as it delved into the plot and I needed to know what happened next. The story and the characters were beautifully interwoven. The full cast narration really helped bring both to life so I’m thankful to have had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a review. This was an audio copy.

*Note: review does not contain spoilers.

This the first time I have had the opportunity to read a novel by Rochelle B. Weinstein. Her story-telling is smooth and graceful, with rich character development. I was so invested in each of these characters, that I am hoping there will be a sequel.

The audio was fantastic, with a voice for each one. This allowed smooth transitions with the many people and their narratives to blend together.

Especially loved how the Title "We are Made of Stars" is incorporated in small elements throughout the book.

This is a narrative of forgiveness, found family, self reflection, shared failures and laughter. Most of all, FOOD! Each day of the 1 week together started with the meal planning. I was so hungry listening and even googling some of the recipes that I plan on making for my family.

I will be going back into this authors back list and picking up a few more of her novels. Thank you