Christmas at the Island Hotel by Jenny Colgan (Review by Jennifer Holmes)

5 stars

Jenny Colgan books have been my guilty pleasure for years. My first and favorite book was The Bookshop around the Corner. Jenny’s characters are always quirky and loveable, the towns idyllic with that small town feel, and there’s always a sweet love story. I also enjoy that the characters from previous books will make their appearance but you don’t have to have read them to understand the plot or their importance to the story. If you haven’t read any of Jenny’s books I highly recommend them, and if you’re a super fan like me, you’ll love the cozy familiar style of her writing with the festive vibe of Christmas. (I mean look at that cover!)

On the Island of Mure a new hotel is opening just in time for the holidays. Being a new mom is stressful for Flora, nothing seems to come naturally to her including caring for her new baby. For her brother Fintan, he is morning the loss of his great love and former owner of The Rock. The two must work hard to get everything ready before the hotel’s grand opening and there seems to be problem after problem. The new kitchen is beautiful and fit for a king, but little do they know their new wait staff Konstantin is actually the son of the Duke of Utsire. His father has sent him to the small town so he can learn what it means to earn a dollar, work hard, and become more appreciative before he’s handed his inheritance. Konstantin will learn some new skills and also fall in love with his coworker and small town girl Isla. Isla worked as a waitress at the Island Café and is excited to take on a bigger position at the hotel. Once she learns of Konstantin’s status she starts to pull away, doubtful that someone of his stature would be interested in someone like her.

With the holidays and grand opening gala fast approaching the town must pull together to make this the greatest event on Mure. Some will have to grow up, some will need to show up, and many will have to dig deep and face their personal issues in order to move forward.