The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand

*** Review ***

Elin Hilderbrand’s The Five-Star Weekend takes readers on an unforgettable journey filled with friendship, love, and self-discovery against the backdrop of picturesque Nantucket. With skillful storytelling, Hilderbrand crafts compelling relationships between the characters, each possessing their own unique personality, quirks, and secrets. This light and airy novel is a quick and easy read, bursting with wit, sharp humor, and a refreshing narrative that is sure to leave readers feeling happy.

At the center of the story is Hollis Shaw, the creator of the popular food blog, “Hungry with Hollis.” Her seemingly perfect life shatters when a heated argument with her husband, Matthew, leads to his tragic death in a car accident. Hollis’s strained marriage and complicated relationship with her daughter, Caroline, become more apparent as the cracks in her picture-perfect existence deepen.

Seeking solace and a chance to heal, Hollis stumbles upon the concept of a “Five-Star Weekend.” Inspired by the idea, she decides to host her own on Nantucket, gathering friends from different phases of her life to spend a rejuvenating weekend together. The dynamics between Hollis and her diverse group of friends are expertly navigated by Hilderbrand, capturing the complexity of these relationships and the personal growth that ensues.

The character development in The Five-Star Weekend is exceptional, with Hilderbrand painting vivid portraits of each individual. Hollis emerges as a fun and endearing protagonist, her infectious energy and resilience drawing readers in. Her large social media presence through her food blog, “Hungry with Hollis,” adds an element of modernity to the story, while the possibility of rekindling a romance with her high school boyfriend provides a tantalizing second chance at love. Readers will find themselves rooting for Hollis as she navigates the challenges and opportunities that arise during the weekend.

Furthermore, Hilderbrand does an excellent job creating characters who have their own personal dramas and histories with one another. As secrets are unveiled and old wounds resurface, the story becomes even more engrossing. The intricate web of relationships between Hollis and her friends deepens, leading to strong character growth not only for Hollis but for the secondary characters as well. Each member of the group possesses their own distinct personality and brings their own relatable issues to the table, making the story feel rich and multi-dimensional.

The Five-Star Weekend also excels in delving into the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship. Hilderbrand portrays this bond realistically, exploring the intricacies and challenges that arise between Hollis and Caroline. It adds depth and emotional resonance to the story, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a profound level.

One of Hilderbrand’s strengths lies in her ability to transport readers to Nantucket. Through vivid descriptions of the island’s landmarks, restaurants, and summertime activities, readers can almost feel the sand between their toes and the salty breeze on their skin. The inclusion of cameos from Hilderbrand’s previous books adds a delightful touch for longtime fans, further enhancing the immersive experience.

While The Five-Star Weekend is an enjoyable read, a few shortcomings merit consideration. Some readers may find the emphasis on characters’ fashion choices and designer handbags excessive, detracting from the overall narrative. Additionally, the fascination and obsession with being skinny may be off-putting to those seeking a more body-positive representation. Finally, the ending might leave some readers feeling slightly disappointed, as everything is wrapped up neatly and perhaps too conveniently, tied with a bow.

In conclusion, The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand is a delightful and engaging novel that captures the essence of friendship, love, and self-discovery. With its picturesque setting, well-crafted characters, and a narrative that balances lightness and depth, this book is a perfect choice for a relaxing weekend read. Despite a few minor flaws, Hilderbrand’s storytelling prowess shines through, making this an enjoyable addition to her repertoire. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, The Five-Star Weekend offers a satisfying escape into the world of Nantucket and the lives of its captivating characters.