Winter Stroll (Winter Street, #2) (Winter, #2)

by Elin Hilderbrand

[kimbacaffeinate]

Kelley Quinn owns the Winter Street Inn on Nantucket and the family is gathering to celebrate not only the holidays but also the baptism of the newest Quinn. Hilderbrand quickly catches us up on what has happened since Christmas. It has been a hard year and a joyous one. I slipped right back into the story and loved the familiar surroundings and inn.

Kevin and Isabelle have a beautiful new baby. Ava is dating Scott. Kelley is now single and getting along with both of his ex-wives. Mitzi shows up unexpectedly. The past year has been hard on her. Her relationship is on the fritz and thoughts of her son are foremost in her mind.

Things get complicated when the past interferes with the present and unexpected guests arrive. Hilderbrand deliciously weaves jealousy, love, personal growth, passion and the joy and pitfalls of family into her tale. She allows us into each of the characters’ lives as we experience their joy, sorrow, fears and love for each other. Life can be complicated and we might not always get along but family and hope bind us.

Hilderbrand made me giggle; yell at characters, cry and most of all care for this crazy, chaotic, beautifully complicated family. Winter Stroll left us with unanswered questions and one in particular haunts me. However, I am more than willing to wait another year and look forward to my return trip to Nantucket and the Winter Street Inn.

Erin Bennett narrators Winter Stroll and I was delighted to see her return. It is my hope she continues to narrate the series.

Elin Hilderbrand had a trying year personally both with her own health issues and the loss of a loved one. Her powerful, heartfelt message at the end of this novel about broke my heart and at the same time filled me with the holiday spirit. As she reminding readers what truly matters. Have truffles on hand.

Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer