BOOK “The Book Club Hotel” by Sarah Morgan

You need to do things the way you feel they should be done and trust your instincts.

Perfect winter wonderland vibes!
I was looking for a book that would offer a dreamy escape, and this one delivered beautifully. I came across The Book Club Hotel at my local library, and the title alone immediately caught my attention. I read it over Christmas and New Year’s to ring in 2026, which felt like the perfect time for this story.

To me, it has a wonderful blend of cosy descriptions of the Vermont setting—especially the Maple Sugar Inn—fierce friendship, and found family. I truly wish Maple Sugar Inn existed, with its thoughtful owner, pleasant staff, festive kitchen, and, most importantly, the library with its fireplace and Christmas tree. The sense of a close-knit community was so vivid that I found myself wanting to stay at the inn and stroll through the charming streets of Vermont alongside the characters.

What I loved most was watching Hattie, Anna, Erica, and Claudia navigate personal challenges while constantly supporting one another with warmth, humour, and honest conversation. Their friendships beautifully reflect the idea that “there were times when enthusiasm could trump experience,” reminding us that growth doesn’t always come from having all the answers, but from daring to try, together. Their sometimes opposing personalities highlighted how very different people can still form deep bonds and learn from one another. Consistency is key. Whether it is about building your creative project, your business, or getting ready for your IELTS exam, it is all about consistency and staying enthusiastic even through periods of difficulty and exhaustion.

I also appreciated the book’s empowering moments, particularly the sentiment behind the line, “In my favourite version of that story Cinderella sets up her own cleaning company and goes global.” This line has made me laugh out loud! It’s so funny! I have never thought of Cinderella story this way. This quote perfectly captures the novel’s modern take on independence, self-determination, and rewriting one’s own narrative rather than waiting to be rescued.

Another line that stayed with me was, “You need to do things the way you feel they should be done and trust your instincts.” Each woman’s journey reflects this truth, as they uncover hidden layers of their character and open themselves to new opportunities by listening to their inner voice. I’ve always been a great fan of listening to the gut feeling, listening to one’s heart. In the end, it takes courage to listen to your inner voice as it comes with fully accepting the consequences and taking full responsibility of following your heart.

Finally, the scenes with Delphi (the 5-year-old of Hattie, the inn owner) were pure joy. “To be with Delphi was to witness unfettered happiness in the moment,” and whether she was sledding, colouring, or making hot chocolate, she turned every activity into something magical. The reminder that adults “could learn a great deal from children” felt especially poignant—about presence, gratitude, and finding happiness in simple moments.

This is my second book by Sarah Morgan, and it has definitely made me eager to read more of her work. A cosy, heart-warming read that celebrates friendship, community, and the courage to start anew. ❄️📚