Book Review: The Nantucket Inn: Nantucket Beach Plum Cove Series, Book 1 by Pamela Kelley
As the leaves start to change and the cozy sweater weather rolls in, I find myself drawn every year to tales that whisk me away to charming locales. This year, my escape took me to the picturesque shores of Nantucket with The Nantucket Inn by Pamela Kelley. I stumbled upon this book while searching for heartwarming reads, and I quickly felt the gentle tug of the ocean breeze and the aroma of fresh lobster quiche beckoning me into Lisa Hodges’ world of bed-and-breakfast adventures.
At the heart of this delightful story is Lisa, a woman navigating the tumultuous waters of life after the passing of her husband. With their savings depleted due to his gambling addiction, Lisa faces a monumental decision: sell her beloved waterfront home or transform it into a bed-and-breakfast. This premise sets the stage for an engaging exploration of family dynamics, personal reinvention, and the comfort of home-cooked meals—elements that resonate deeply with anyone who has ever faced a crossroads in life.
Kelley’s writing shines with a warm, inviting tone that captures the essence of Nantucket’s charm. As I followed Lisa’s journey, I appreciated how each character was intricately woven into her narrative, bringing their own challenges and growth. Lisa’s four grown children—all unique in their struggles—added layers of complexity to the story. For instance, her daughter Abby grapples with infertility while maintaining a façade of a perfect marriage, and her daughter Kate, a fashion magazine writer, faces unexpected life changes that led her back to her mother’s side. The blend of their stories reflects a sense of realism and relatability that made me reflect on my own family dynamics.
One of the standout aspects of the novel is Kelley’s vivid descriptions of food and setting. The way she brought to life scenes of Lisa’s kitchen, bustling with laughter and the scent of baked goods, made me wish I could sit at the Beach Plum Cove Inn’s dining table myself. Readers noted that they could almost taste the dishes described, and I couldn’t agree more—Kelley’s love for food is palpably present and adds another dimension to the story.
However, not all journeys are without bumps. A few reviews pointed out the predictability of the plot. While I understand this critique, I embraced the familiar arcs as a comforting hallmark of cozy fiction. After all, there’s a sense of satisfaction in following characters towards hopeful resolutions, especially when their warmth feels like a hug on a tough day.
The Nantucket Inn captivated me with its spacious narrative and left me eagerly anticipating the next installments in the series. I believe fans of women’s fiction, family sagas, or just those looking to escape their daily routine will find solace and comfort in this book. If you’re in need of a gentle read that feels like a warm embrace, this is your perfect pick. I finished it with a heart full of love and maybe a slight craving for quiche. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself planning a trip to Nantucket—or, at the very least, a trip to your kitchen to whip up something delicious!
You can find The Nantucket Inn: Nantucket Beach Plum Cove Series, Book 1 here >>