A New Year In The Presidential Suite: A Beach House Hotel Story

by Judith Keim

A New Year…A New Chance at Life
As a Christmas surprise, Lori Hamlin’s family sends her to The Beach House Hotel on the Gulf Coast of Florida to help her recover from the loss of her husband two years ago, hoping she will realize it’s time to change her life. There, she meets Griffin Sawyer, who’s on his own after his fiancée left him at the altar. Neither one is interested in anything but friendship, but Lori and Griff decide to spend the New Year’s holiday together.
Griff has to leave unexpectedly because his grandfather, the owner of the Adeline Hills Winery, has had a stroke. Having been told about wine and growing grapes by Griff, Lori decides to learn more. And when she signs up for a stay at the winery’s guest cottage, she meets Griff and his entire family. Then, they must decide if friendship is what they truly want or if the past will prevent them from moving forward.
A special spin-off book where characters have their own stories but end up at The Beach House Hotel in Florida with Ann and Rhonda. A chance to stay connected to the series in a different way.

266 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 9, 2026

About the author

Judith Keim, A USA Today Best Selling Author, is a hybrid author who both has a publisher and self-publishes. Ms. Keim writes heart-warming novels about women who face unexpected challenges, meet them with strength, and find love and happiness along the way, stories with heart. Her best-selling books are based, in part, on many of the places she's lived or visited and on the interesting people that she's met, creating believable characters and realistic settings her many loyal readers love.

She enjoyed her childhood and young-adult years in Elmira, New York, and now makes her home in Boise, Idaho, with her husband and their two dachshunds, Kacy and Wally, and other members of her family.

While growing up, she was drawn to the idea of writing stories from a young age. Books were always present, being read, ready to go back to the library, or about to be discovered. All in her family shared information from the books in general conversation, giving them a wealth of knowledge and vivid imaginations.

Ms. Keim loves to hear from her readers and appreciates their enthusiasm for her stories.

To sign up for her newsletter, go here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/oeiwdp1vkc

Her website: https://judithkeim.com/

Follow her on Book Bub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/judit...

Reviews

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I went into this book expecting a little more of the mystery and excitement that I loved in the The Beach House Hotel series, so this one didn’t quite hit the same note for me. The pacing felt slower overall, and I never fully connected to the romance or felt a strong spark between the characters.

I also found myself getting distracted by some repetitive details and a few things that didn’t completely add up for me. That said, if you enjoy stories centered around wine, vineyards, and the winemaking process, there’s definitely a lot here to appreciate. The setting and behind-the-scenes aspects of that world were clearly well researched and will likely appeal to readers who enjoy that atmosphere.

While this one wasn’t a standout for me personally, it still had enjoyable moments and I know it will find the right audience. A solid 3-star read for me.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first, I thought that I was going to miss Ann and Rhonda and all of our fabulous friends from the Beach House hotel but I really liked adding some new characters who have a connection to the hotel. This was a great un-put downable romance.

Lori’s family sent her to the Beach House hotel for a week to help her recover from the loss of her husband two years earlier. She knew that she wasn’t ready for a new man in her life but realized that she needed to get out of the rut she’d been in since her husband died of cancer. She meets Griffin at the resort. He is at the hotel to get over the trauma of being left at the altar by his fiancé. Even though he knew she wasn’t a good match for him, he wanted his beloved grandfather know that he was ready to settle down and take over control of the family vineyard In Napa. Lori and Griffin explain to each other that they only want to be friends and they hang out together for a few days and enjoy meals together. The sparks are just beginning to fly when Griffin had to return to California early because his grandfather had a stroke. Even though they both continued to think about each other, they realized that distance would keep them apart. When Lori wins a raffle that will take her to Griffin’s vineyard for a week, she is thrilled to know that their friendship can be re-kindled. But when they meet again is it friendship that they both want or is it romance?

I enjoyed this book and loved the two main characters. It was great to see them fall in love and learn how to put their past relationship pain behind them. They were both very likable and interesting characters who learned that even the past plans for the future can be changed for the better. I also enjoyed learning more about wine and wine making while Lori was getting to know the other members of Griff’s family. As with all books by this author, this was a great book with interesting characters and a great HEA ending.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A New Year in the Presidential Suite: A Beach House Hotel Story is the newest release by author Judith Keim. This is the first spin-off book from The Beach House Hotel Series, and I love the direction this is going! Although we will still have appearances from Ann, Rhonda and the crew, these books will instead focus on the actual guests at the hotel and we will learn about their stories instead.

Lori Hamlin's family surprised her with a wonderful Christmas gift...a trip to the luxurious Beach House Hotel in Florida. Of course, they have an ulterior motive for sending her there. It has been 2 years since her husband Nick passed away from cancer, and they feel she needs to move on with her life. The only problem with that is the fact that Lori is not ready to move on.

Griffin Sawyer has just arrived for his stay in the Presidential Suite at The Beach House Hotel...newly single and all alone. He is determined to make the best of his time there, and try to erase the fact that his fiancé bolted right before their wedding.

The story that unfolds is so well-written and well-developed. The characters are simply amazing, and so easy to relate to. I love how Griff swears off women, but then immediately steps in to help Lori out of an awkward situation. That brief encounter sets the scene perfectly...two people staying at the same hotel, alone for different reasons, but neither are looking for true love.

As they spend more time with one another, there is a genuine and beautiful friendship that begins to develop between them. There is no denying they begin to have feelings for each other, but will they let the past stop them from having a future?

I received an ARC from the author. My views are my own, and are in no way influenced by anyone else.

[Patty Duplechin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lori Hamlin is a young widow of two years. Her family is worried about her, so they gifted her a trip to The Beach House Hotel for a week for Christmas. She’s looking forward to a little warm weather and peace and quiet. Griffin Sawyer was left at the alter by his fiancée so he left California to go stay a week at The Beach House Hotel. He wants to let things calm down. He knows he shouldn’t have ask his ex to marry him. She wasn’t right for him. He only did it for his grandfather, who raised him after the death of his parents. His grandfather wants him to be settled with a family before he takes over the vineyard, that’s been in his family for generations. All Griff wants is peace and quiet. He meets Lori and they decide to hang out together so no one will bother them. They become fast friends. They feel safe with each other. On New Year’s Eve, he receives a call saying his grandfather has had a heart attack. He hates to leave Lori alone, because he enjoyed her company, but he has to return to grandfather and the vineyard. Lori understands. She heads home after her vacation was over, where she meets her old high school boyfriend. She decides that it’s time to move forward with her life. She receives a free trip to the Griff Sawyer’s vineyard from her ex high school boyfriend, when they decided they were better being just friends. She’s excited.She works the week of her trip for them. She’s learning a lot. She’s loving it. She can’t help but fall for Griff. When her father has a stroke, she returns home. Does she want a life with Griff and his vineyard? Does she want to stay in her hometown with her family? Can she let the past go? Can she understand that she can love her dead husband and still have a second chance at love? Will Griff figure out that Lori’s the one for him? Will he go to her and tell her that he loves her? Will he just walk away? The characters are wonderful. I was rooting for them. I love how it begins with Ann and Rhonda at the Beach House Hotel and ends there. Worth the read. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lori Hamlin was given a special gift by her family to help her find a new beginning after the devastating loss of her husband, a stay at famous Beach House Hotel, where she is given a wonderful welcome by Ann and Rhonda. It's just what she needs. She knew that maybe changes would come, but not in the form of Griffin Sawyer, who checks in the same day and who is spending his bride less honeymoon, for a wedding that never happened. The two have little in common but form a fast friendship and decide to spend the New Year together. But then Griffin gets an emergency phone call that his grandfather is ill and he must fly back to Napa, California and Lori spends the New Year alone.
But little did they both know that fate would step in and reunite these friends when Lori is given another gift of a stay at Griffin's winery in Napa and how the two would come to know more about each other and if that friendship could turn into more.

This was such a delightful twist on this series, to have this story start at the Beach House Hotel and move on to a different location. It really loved how Judith Keim takes us on a new journey into what I hope is a new series with so many great characters which I know I am going to love. And she is educating us at the same time about Wine and the growing of grapes. And I loved the ending, which is not really an ending but hopefully a beginning.
Judith Keim gives her readers what we love a HEA..
I was provided an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my unbiased review.

[Rosemarie Grainer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story that starts at the Beach House Hotel.

Lori is from upstate New York and meets Griff a wine grower from Napa Valley, California at the Beach House Hotel for a New Year's Eve celebration. Lord's family gave her the trip to help her get over the death of her husband two years ago. Griff is on his honeymoon alone, after his fiancee walked out right before the wedding. They agree to spend friendly time together, but when Griff has to leave early to deal with a family situation, Lori goes home. Both of them miss th he other, but what can they do about it? Read this to find out! This story is Beach House Hotel adjacent, in my opinion, as it starts there, but the majority of the story takes place elsewhere. It was very well done.

The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character centered storyline that has some kisses and steamy suggestions but no details. The characters are vibrant and engaging. You don't have to read the Beach House Hotel series before this story, BUT, I bet you will want to after you read this one! It is a great series and this story well complements the series. Read the books of the series in order, but like I said, you can read this story anytime, preferably after book 1 of the series! Enjoy this lovely contemporary romance with superb characters. Griff's grampa is a hoot!

[Shashi21 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC. I’m a big fan of Judith keim and her beach house hotel series. This one is the latest. The two owners of the hotel aren’t highlighted as much in this book. Most of the story revolves around the 2 main characters, Lori and griff. Lori’s family bought her this vacation. Just what they said she needed, after losing her husband few years before. Griff had reservations for his “honeymoon” in the presidential suite. His bride called the wedding off and left him at the alter. Griff decided since the hotel was already paid for, why not go. Griff met Lori accidently. Both told each other what had brought them there and decided to just be friends. Upon each of them returning home, the story starts to evolve. This book is written different from the others. It starts out a little slow. Picks up after Griff gets called back to his family’s winery due to his grandfathers health. Lori stayed on for a few more days. Without giving everything away, I’ll stop here.
Reading this book gave me happy feelings. Definitely a woman’s book and maybe even a beach read!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan Hamann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lori's a young woman, but her husband passed away two years before. She hasn't resumed a social life, but she's still working at a few jobs and she's close to her family. The family has decided to gift her a week at the Beach House Hotel. There, she meets Griff, who was jilted just before his wedding. He's on his honeymoon by himself. They hit it off, but he goes home to the Napa Valley and she goes home to a small town in upstate NY.

She starts to date a man she used to date in high school. When he wins a trip to Griff's family vineyard, they plan together, but she ends up goin on her own.

This story is an interesting segue from a Beach House Hotel story to a story that is mainly in other locations. It contains all the hallmarks of a Judith Keim book. Women who are friendly and supportive of other women, Friends being there for each other, and romance is behind closed doors. This book can be read by anyone.

I really enjoyed this book and I'm so thankful to have been granted the opportunity to read an early version of the e-book. Thanks to the author, the publisher, and to NetGalley.

[Nicole Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy and am voluntarily reviewing it. We are back at the Beach House Hotel and the new year is ready to make an appearance. Loralie Hamlin was gifted a stay at the hotel by her family. Lori was a widow of two years. Her family wanted to see her get back out there. Her family was hoping this vacation would be the start of Lori's new life. The hotel is just as great as it is anytime we visit. Lori runs into another guest, Griffin Sawyer, while trying to steer clear of Brock Goodwin. If you have been reading this series, you know Brock. If you haven't, just know he is annoying and always wants to know what's going on at the hotel.

Griff owns Adeline Hills Winery. Lori and Griff hit it off and decide to hang together during their visit. They both enjoyed each other's company. I feel like things would have progressed to more if they were not interrupted by an emergency. Lori went back home to her life and Griff did the same. They still thought about each other. Though this relationship started at the hotel, it did not stay there.

This book takes us to the Adeline Hills Winery where Griff and Lori reconnect. Readers get to see if the sparks we saw at the Beach Hotel were real. As always, Ms. Keim gives readers a little mystery. Despite that, this is a love story. I loved that both Lori and Griff were adults. They had both been through some things that made them hesitant to try a relationship again. I really enjoyed this book with an adult friendship that possibly turns into more for two people that deserve it. Both of their families were rooting for them. I loved that they had the support they needed to take a chance on love. The Beach Hotel creates another match.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Beach House Hotel series I have read and loved it . Lori Hamlin has been gifted a stay at the hotel by her family to help her recover from the death of her husband 2 years ago . She meets Griff Sawyer from California at the hotel and they find friendship which is healing for them both as Griff is recovering from the trauma of being dumped by his fiance and decided to continue to the place which was supposed to be their honeymoon destination .
So two strong main characters dominate the storyline but they are both supported by loving families and friends who are keen for them to find happiness
The chapters alternate between Lori and Griff's thoughts and feelings , and the author has included fascinating information about life on a vineyard and what makes a good wine
The storyline moves from Florida to New York and California as the reader discovers the intricacies of the lives of these two main characters , in a fast flowing very readable novel
Thoroughly recommend this second chance at love novel and thank the author for an e copy

[J Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful second-chance romance.

Lori Hamlin and Griffin Sawyer come to the Beach House Hotel for healing. Lori’s life has stalled after the death of her husband two years ago, and Griff was left at the altar by his fiancée. Neither is interested in a relationship, but they get along well and plan to spend the holiday together as friends. Griff returns early to his family winery in California when his grandfather has a stroke. An unexpected opportunity lets Lori travel to the winery to learn about wine making and visit Griff and his family. She and Griff seemed to have a special friendship at the Beach House Hotel. Her stay at the winery will give them a chance to see if they want more than friendship.

Second-chance love stories always pull at my heart. Judith Keim blends the beauty of the Florida setting with the earthy scenery of California wine country to create a special romance. I received an advance copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

A New Year in The Presidential Suite is a second chance romance. This well written book is a great start to a spin off series. I am so glad not to completely say goodbye to Ann and Rhonda. Lori and Griffin have both endured loss so when they meet at The Beach House Hotel initially they are only interested in being friends. Griffin is called home early because his grandfather suffers a stroke. Later in the new year Lori is gifted a week's stay at the vineyard where she learns a lot about grapes and winemaking and renews her friendship with Griffith. You will have to read this for yourself to see how Ms. Keim takes Lori and Griffin from friends to more. Along the way, you will learn interesting acts about wine. This couple has the great chemistry that characterizes all Ms. Keim's novels. I was sorry to reach the end.

[Suzanne Stapler · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far, I like the story, but I do miss reading more about Rhonda and Ann and families like in the earlier series. I don't miss them having to do "favors" for the US VP and I would have loved for Brock to have been thrown out on his ear. Maybe next time (book out August 26)! Now after finishing the story, I like it even more and gave it one more star!
I don't know what it is about fiction writers that they never mention holistic remedies for diseases and healthy, organic eating (like mega dose vitamin C for cancer so that poor Lori may not have had to lose her young husband. Sure, it might not work but chances are if the dose is high enough it will)! Or is it a rule that must be followed from HARM and the drug companies and ridiculous allopathic doctors who won't take the time to learn about nutrition just because it's not taught in medical
school?

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Florida, grief, hope, vineyard, and wine! What could be better? When Lori's family gives her a stay at The Beach House Hotel for Christmas, a gift to help her heal, she has to go. Lori goes reluctantly for New Year's. Griffin is coming to get away from a grief of his own, and using his time that was meant to be a special celebration. Lori and Griffin become friends over the course of time, but Griffin is pulled away unexpectedly. Griffin talked about his grandfather's winery during their time, and Lori decided she would like to learn more about the process. When a chance meeting is put in front of Lori, she decides to take a chance, and go. Can they remain friends only, or do they each want something more? Loved, loved, loved the book! Ann and Rhonda continue to be wonderful hosts to help those that need to heal.

[Paulette · Rating 5 out of 5]

For reasons of their own, our two wonderful main characters, Loralie ‘Lori’ and Griff are each visiting the infamous Beach House Hotel alone. After Griff saves Lori from a conversation on the beach from the obnoxious Brock they decide to pose as a couple to ward off any unwanted attention, as friends only.
But remember, they are at the Beach House Hotel and we know anything can happen!
“A New Year in the Presidential Suite” is a delightful spin-off in the author’s popular Beach House series. All the characters are warm and interesting and the book provides some great information on wine. An engaging, fun read and I appreciate the Arc I received from the author. This review is my opinion without renumeration.

[Sheila Penwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about Loralie and Griff. Griff saves her from the likes of Brock. Lori is there because her family sent her on a much needed trip and Griff is on his honeymoon even though he didn't get married. They end up having dinner, going into town and the New Year's part at the hotel. They like each other but neither are ready for anything special at this time. During dinner Griff is called back to NAPA as his grandfather had a stroke. Lori stays a couple more days then back home to New York. She starts going out with her old high school boyfriend. He wins a trip to the Vineyard and gives it to Lori. They are just friends.Follow Lori's trip to the vineyard. Is Griff surprised to see her. See what happens at the vineyard. A GREAT READ.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judith Keim has done it again! A New Year in the Presidential Suite was such an easy, feel-good read—the kind of heartwarming beach book I’ve come to expect from her. I liked that the story connects to The Beach House Hotel while also spending most of the time in New York and California.
Loralie and Griff are lovable characters, and I found myself rooting for them right away, both on their own and as a couple. I also enjoyed the little details about the wine industry and thought the childcare setting felt very realistic.
One great thing is that this book works well as a standalone, even though it’s part of the Beach House Hotel series. That said, I’d definitely recommend the whole series too.
Thanks to NetGalley and Wild Quail Publishing for the ARC!

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good story. Lori was not over losing her husband and Griff got dumped right before his wedding. Lori's family sent her to wonderful hotel that Ann and Rhonda run that we love to read about. They hit it off right away as friends but both kept thinking about each other when they got home. She was given a trip to his vineyard to learn about making wine and didn't tell him she was coming. They reconnected and fell in love. Both of them held back from telling the other as they were afraid of making a mistake.
The story was wonderful and all the characters were written so you felt you knew them.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pam Fleming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner in the Beach House series, although the author has twisted the setting of the plot. Griff has been jolted before marriage and Lori is a widow recovering from the death of her young husband. The two meet at the Beach House Hotel at New Year’s Eve.

Both are very dedicated to their families. When Griff has to return home early, the two have agreed to be just friends. What happens when Lori is “gifted” a week’s stay in Napa at Griff’s family winery

The book continues vivid descriptions of the Napa area and the wine making process. Family love and support are key elements of the storyline

Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lori was open to the possibility of love again after her husband died but she doesn’t want to settle for less than what she had with him. Griff was going to marry a woman who was more interested in the money from his family’s vineyard than him to please his grandmother. He and Lori started out as friends when they met on vacation. There’s a spark but they also live on opposite sides of the country. When she is given the chance at a week working at his vineyard she jumps at but does he feel the same way? I enjoyed reading about her time there. This was a second chance at love friends to lovers fade to black romance.

[Kasey Connors-Beron · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of A New Year In The Presidential Suite thanks to the publisher through NetGalley and leave this review voluntarily.

I am not a fan of the title, but I am so glad that I did not let that stop me from picking this book up. This book had multiple ups and downs and the character development along the way was well worth that emotional rollercoaster. I felt myself rooting for the characters from the beginning and feeling their disappointment as things just never really worked out. I loved the way the characters were brought together and the plot devices that kept pushing them apart. It made the end of the book incredibly satisfying. Definitely a book worth picking up,

[Vicki Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

A New Year In The Presidential Suite looks at the story of Lori, whose family sent her to stay at the Beach House Hotel during the Christmas holidays as a surprise gift, and Griff who is staying in the Presidential Suite as it was to be his honeymoon but was stood up at the alter. The couple has immediate attraction to one another but has the logistical problem of them living across the country. Griff is soon called home to Napa Valley due to a health emergency and Lori must decide what they should do. This romance has delightful characters, great world building. and a romance plagued by a long distance romance.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great spin off start to a new series! I loved it! I cannot wait to see what happens next in the lives of Lori and Griff and their wonderful families. One thing I love about Judith Keim books is the relationships of the characters. This doesn’t mean everything is perfect cause they deal with real life just like we do. I am so excited for this new series. I also appreciate the research that authors do. I felt like I was at the winery learning as Lori was. I’m looking forward to the next book. I received an ARC of this book, but my opinion is my own.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Double reward: New surroundings and storyline as Lori, a young widow, and Griffin, a jilted bridegroom, meet at the Beach House Hotel over the days leading up to New Year. Griffin has to cut his trip short to return to California where his grandfather, owner of a winery, has suffered a stroke. A few months later Lori receives a lottery prize to Griffin’s winery. This story grabs at one’s heartstrings with the love of family. Another winner for author Judith Keim. I received an Advance Reader’s Guide from the author in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautiful, emotional story of second chance love. I liked how it started at the Beach Front Hotel with Lori and Griff being friends as they each dealt with their past in a beautiful place in Florida.
I also liked how fate seemed to bring them together. This was truly a beautiful, touching story that filled me with hope and happiness for the couple and all that they had been through before they met at the Beach Front Hotel. I received an advance copy of this book, nd I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Jodi Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lori is still dealing with the loss of her husband and to cheer her up her family sends her to the Beach House hotel. While there she meets Griffin Sawyer who was stood up at the alter. Neither is interested in anything other than companionship for the weekend. After their vacation is complete, neither can forget the time they had. When Lori gets the chance to go out to Napa she is so excited to surprise Griffin. Will they be able to get together this time? This was a lovely book as they all are by Judith Keim.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moving on to a new romance can be difficult. And when the two lead characters meet they decide to spend time together. Something unexpected happens and plans are changed and they get to spend more time together. Romance is not always easy but it can be wonderful when it works. Like the setting and the locations that the characters have to be at. There are also some unexpected secondary characters that can throw a twist in the story. Good reading.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jill Eshenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all love the Beach House Hotel series, what a wonderful way to segue into a new series by starting the story in our beloved hotel with some of our favorite characters and moving on from there to the new characters Lori and Griff. Their story of two souls in distress and finding first friendship and then love is a beautiful story. As always in Ms Keim's books there is a happily ever after and the reader is left hoping the next story will come quickly.

[Bonnie Theel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this spin off book from the Beach House Hotel series. Lori and Griff met each other at the Beach House Hotel.

Neither one was looking for a relationship, just a friendship. They found it easy to talk to each other about what brought them there. Griff had to leave early, because his grandfather had a stroke. Would they try to stay in touch with each other?

I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a different type of story in the Beach House Hotel series as it begins and ends at the hotel, but the story really takes place between those times. Lori’s family gifts her a trip to the hotel. Her husband, Nick, died a couple years ago due to cancer. Griff, whose family owns a winery in California, goes to the hotel after being left at the altar. They meet and develop a friendship. An unexpected trip to the winery for Lori leads to more with Griff.