Publication Sept. 24, 2024
Just the right touch of predictable holiday romance and reality. While thoroughly Hallmark Christmas worthy, "The Christmas Inn" manages to stay homey and realistic. Now, true, the characters all seem to be reasonably well off financially, which isn't necessarily the norm, but they are relatable and quite likable. Riley, our main character, has just lost her marketing job in Manhattan -- and AI plays a role -- but doesn't hesitate a moment when her sister calls and tells her their mother has broken a leg and needs help at their B & B. Never mind that Jack, her driven, workaholic lawyer boyfriend can't go along. She's fine with that. Or, so she thinks. I mean, her former boyfriend, Aiden Shaw, now a widower, and his son are staying at the B & B while their home is having some necessary work done. Also at the B & B is Franny, who is spending some time in town after his sister's death. Her sister left a series of letters for her with instructions to read them one at a time, one per week. These are shared throughout the book and one almost feels pangs of sorrow at what a wonderful person that sister was that we're only getting to know through her letters to Franny.
And, let's see, let's not forget Sean, the worker/handyman who comes to do some much needed repairs to a couple rooms at the B & B. Although Riley's mom, Beth, lost her husband some time ago, she's suddenly aware that, well, she's attracted to Sean, who is divorced. His mom hits it off with Franny, who enjoys not just her company but that of the book club members she meets as a result. And, oh, I can't forget Riley's cat, Lily, who Riley does take home with her, sans the boyfriend. That's the main cast but the others who pop in and out are also relatable and likable, making this a delightful bunch to virtually hang around with.
I won't detail the plot, that's what blurbs are for, but will say that the themes of second chances, family, personal growth, moving on, the optimal work-life balance, and discovering that maybe what you once thought you needed isn't that at all weave through the narrative. This being a "Hallmark" type romance, you know there will be speed bumps and detours along the way but, well, I know I'm not spoiling anything by saying you also know it'll all work out in the long one. Family is who you choose to make family. And, oh, second chances, plural, abound. Will Riley leave Madison Avenue for life at the B & B (and Aiden)? Will Franny stay or go and, hey, maybe that mystery man she spied might play a role? How about Jack? He seems work and advancement driven but is he a good or bad guy? And....and, well, you get my drift. Lots for these characters, who I genuinely liked, to work their way through to find true happiness. Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartin'sPress - #StMartin'sGriffin for introducing me to Riley and the rest early so I could enjoy the season with them. This is my first book by this author but it definitely won't be my last.
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