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The Guest House by the Sea
People come to the guest house for fresh air and views across the Atlantic. But if they're lucky, they might just leave with the second chance they didn't know they needed...
Esme has run the guest house for as long as anyone in Ballycove can remember. But in her declining years, her sight is failing, and when she has a fall on the eve of the summer season, she is forced to take a back seat for the first time in her life.
From her chair in the entry hall, not much passes Esme by. There's Cora, the wife visiting indefinitely... without her husband; Niamh, the city professional with a life-changing decision to make; and Phyllie, the grandmother whose family is slipping away from her.
Esme's guests provide the colour that helps her keep her grip on the world. All of them have something they want to escape – or to hold on to. But can Esme help them find their way before the summer is over?
Esme has run the guest house for as long as anyone in Ballycove can remember. But in her declining years, her sight is failing, and when she has a fall on the eve of the summer season, she is forced to take a back seat for the first time in her life.
From her chair in the entry hall, not much passes Esme by. There's Cora, the wife visiting indefinitely... without her husband; Niamh, the city professional with a life-changing decision to make; and Phyllie, the grandmother whose family is slipping away from her.
Esme's guests provide the colour that helps her keep her grip on the world. All of them have something they want to escape – or to hold on to. But can Esme help them find their way before the summer is over?
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
3223 people are currently reading
1212 people want to read
About the author
Faith Hogan
12 books685 followersFaith Hogan is a bestselling author of nine novels. Her books have featured as Book Club Favorites, Net Galley Hot Reads and Summer Must Reads. She writes grown up women's fiction which is unashamedly uplifting, feel good and inspiring.
She gained an Honours Degree in English Literature and Psychology from Dublin City University and a Postgraduate Degree from University College, Galway.
Her latest novel is The Guest House By The Sea - set in the west of Ireland - it has been described as a book to fall in love with.
She also writes crime fiction as Geraldine Hogan. Her Corbally series is out now.
You can find out more about Faith on her website www.faithhogan.com
www.Facebook/FaithHogan.com
@gerhogan
She gained an Honours Degree in English Literature and Psychology from Dublin City University and a Postgraduate Degree from University College, Galway.
Her latest novel is The Guest House By The Sea - set in the west of Ireland - it has been described as a book to fall in love with.
She also writes crime fiction as Geraldine Hogan. Her Corbally series is out now.
You can find out more about Faith on her website www.faithhogan.com
www.Facebook/FaithHogan.com
@gerhogan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
June 15, 2023
EXCERPT: She remembered so clearly, years earlier, walking up the steep drive with weary legs after a day spent careening in and out of the waves and building sandcastles on the beach.
This evening, the sinking copper sun made the tall Victorian house blush as if it were a great old schoolgirl, still easily swayed by the gentle flattery of the elements around it. It was an assemblage of assorted windows pointing out at odd angles with the blue bangor slates falling like a heavy poncho down through several ravines and more windows jutting from the roof. At the very top, a line of soaring chimneypots rose to attention, like old generals, unwilling to stand down regardless of their futility in a time when the whole country wanted nothing less than carbon-neutral this and eco-friendly that. The window glass caught glints of light from the waves beneath spiking occasional flashes of gold and silver that meant the house was forever catching your eye, even though the view beneath was breathtaking.
ABOUT 'THE GUEST HOUSE': People come to the guest house for fresh air and views across the Atlantic. But if they're lucky, they might just leave with the second chance they didn't know they needed...
Esme has run the guest house for as long as anyone in Ballycove can remember. But in her declining years, her sight is failing, and when she has a fall on the eve of the summer season, she is forced to take a back seat for the first time in her life.
From her chair in the entry hall, not much passes Esme by. There's Cora, the wife visiting indefinitely... without her husband; Niamh, the city professional with a life-changing decision to make; and Phyllie, the grandmother whose family is slipping away from her.
Esme's guests provide the colour that helps her keep her grip on the world. All of them have something they want to escape – or to hold on to. But can Esme can help them find their way before the summer is over?
MY THOUGHTS: Author Faith Hogan said that this was a wonderful book to write. It's also a wonderful book to read. It's a wonderfully heartwarming and uplifting book about taking responsibility for your own happiness and not being afraid of opening your heart to new people in your life.
The characters are wonderful people, the setting magnificent, the plot thought provoking and heartwarming.
Esme, owner of the guest house, is a strong woman. She may be blind, but she sees and understands a lot more than most people. Phyllis, Esme's oldest friend, has always been sure of herself, and everything. But now her husband is showing signs of the dementia that took his father she is suddenly feeling unmoored and struggling with the realization that she's not invincible. Cora is taking time out from a stale marriage. Will she decide to resurrect the marriage or fall for the charms of another? Niamh is also taking time out. She has made a decision, but keeps putting off actually implementing it.
These people and a few others meet at the guest house: A group of random strangers who influence each other's lives in unexpected ways.
Definitely recommended. This is a book I lingered over, in absolutely no hurry to close the cover and say goodbye.
My favourite quote: 'It's true what they say about youth.'
'It's wasted on the young?'
'Yes. It's like happiness and contentment, we don't realise how precious it is until it's gone.'
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#TheGuestHouseByTheSea #NetGalley
I: @faithhoganauthor @headofzeus
T: @GerHogan @HoZ_Books
#contemporaryfiction #domesticdrama #irishfiction #love #romance #sliceoflife #smalltownfiction #womensfiction
THE AUTHOR: Faith Hogan is an Irish award-winning and bestselling author. She was born in Ireland. She gained an Honours Degree in English Literature and Psychology from Dublin City University and a Postgraduate Degree from University College, Galway.
She lives in the west of Ireland with her husband, four children and a very busy Labrador named Penny. She's a writer, reader, enthusiastic dog walker and reluctant jogger - except of course when it is raining!
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Head of Zeus, Aria, for providing a digital ARC of The Guest House by the Sea by Faith Hogan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
This evening, the sinking copper sun made the tall Victorian house blush as if it were a great old schoolgirl, still easily swayed by the gentle flattery of the elements around it. It was an assemblage of assorted windows pointing out at odd angles with the blue bangor slates falling like a heavy poncho down through several ravines and more windows jutting from the roof. At the very top, a line of soaring chimneypots rose to attention, like old generals, unwilling to stand down regardless of their futility in a time when the whole country wanted nothing less than carbon-neutral this and eco-friendly that. The window glass caught glints of light from the waves beneath spiking occasional flashes of gold and silver that meant the house was forever catching your eye, even though the view beneath was breathtaking.
ABOUT 'THE GUEST HOUSE': People come to the guest house for fresh air and views across the Atlantic. But if they're lucky, they might just leave with the second chance they didn't know they needed...
Esme has run the guest house for as long as anyone in Ballycove can remember. But in her declining years, her sight is failing, and when she has a fall on the eve of the summer season, she is forced to take a back seat for the first time in her life.
From her chair in the entry hall, not much passes Esme by. There's Cora, the wife visiting indefinitely... without her husband; Niamh, the city professional with a life-changing decision to make; and Phyllie, the grandmother whose family is slipping away from her.
Esme's guests provide the colour that helps her keep her grip on the world. All of them have something they want to escape – or to hold on to. But can Esme can help them find their way before the summer is over?
MY THOUGHTS: Author Faith Hogan said that this was a wonderful book to write. It's also a wonderful book to read. It's a wonderfully heartwarming and uplifting book about taking responsibility for your own happiness and not being afraid of opening your heart to new people in your life.
The characters are wonderful people, the setting magnificent, the plot thought provoking and heartwarming.
Esme, owner of the guest house, is a strong woman. She may be blind, but she sees and understands a lot more than most people. Phyllis, Esme's oldest friend, has always been sure of herself, and everything. But now her husband is showing signs of the dementia that took his father she is suddenly feeling unmoored and struggling with the realization that she's not invincible. Cora is taking time out from a stale marriage. Will she decide to resurrect the marriage or fall for the charms of another? Niamh is also taking time out. She has made a decision, but keeps putting off actually implementing it.
These people and a few others meet at the guest house: A group of random strangers who influence each other's lives in unexpected ways.
Definitely recommended. This is a book I lingered over, in absolutely no hurry to close the cover and say goodbye.
My favourite quote: 'It's true what they say about youth.'
'It's wasted on the young?'
'Yes. It's like happiness and contentment, we don't realise how precious it is until it's gone.'
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#TheGuestHouseByTheSea #NetGalley
I: @faithhoganauthor @headofzeus
T: @GerHogan @HoZ_Books
#contemporaryfiction #domesticdrama #irishfiction #love #romance #sliceoflife #smalltownfiction #womensfiction
THE AUTHOR: Faith Hogan is an Irish award-winning and bestselling author. She was born in Ireland. She gained an Honours Degree in English Literature and Psychology from Dublin City University and a Postgraduate Degree from University College, Galway.
She lives in the west of Ireland with her husband, four children and a very busy Labrador named Penny. She's a writer, reader, enthusiastic dog walker and reluctant jogger - except of course when it is raining!
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Head of Zeus, Aria, for providing a digital ARC of The Guest House by the Sea by Faith Hogan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
June 8, 2023
The Willows is a guest house in Ballycove, Ireland and it has stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Esme Goldthrope has been running the holiday house for years and like the house she’s getting older. Esme’s sight is going, she and Marta are busy getting the Willows ready for the summer season, when Esme does something silly and she will be out of action when the holidaymakers arrive.
From her chair in the entry hall, Esme passes out helpful advice, shares her wisdom and gets one of the guests to read a meaningful quote from one of the visitors books her late mother collected over the years. People stay at the guest house for a variety of reasons, for a quick getaway, a work trip and some have stayed there before and it’s a place full of happy memories.
Cora Doyle lives nearby, she's been married to Michael for over thirty years, her son has recently got hitched and Cora needs some “me time." Niamh Brophy is a busy career woman from Dublin, she must make a life changing decision and the peaceful location is perfect place to do so. Phyllis Courtney is Esme’s best friend, her family have been staying at the Willows for years, and she’s visiting with her husband Kurt, son Rob, grandson Josh and she’s physically and mentally exhausted. Joel Lawson is an engineer, he’s working in Ballycove and checking the church roof.
I received a copy of The Guest House by the Sea by Faith Hogan from NetGalley and Aria and Aries in exchange for an honest review. It’s a thought provoking and insightful narrative about Esme, the Willows and what each of the guests gets out of staying at the holiday house and so much more. Esme shares her wisdom, kindness, gives helpful advice and guidance and new friendships are made. As women we want to do the right thing for everyone else, it's not being selfish to put yourself first and this really resonates with me. Five stars and I’m very keen to read Ms. Hogan’s previous book; The Ladies Midnight Swimming Club.
From her chair in the entry hall, Esme passes out helpful advice, shares her wisdom and gets one of the guests to read a meaningful quote from one of the visitors books her late mother collected over the years. People stay at the guest house for a variety of reasons, for a quick getaway, a work trip and some have stayed there before and it’s a place full of happy memories.
Cora Doyle lives nearby, she's been married to Michael for over thirty years, her son has recently got hitched and Cora needs some “me time." Niamh Brophy is a busy career woman from Dublin, she must make a life changing decision and the peaceful location is perfect place to do so. Phyllis Courtney is Esme’s best friend, her family have been staying at the Willows for years, and she’s visiting with her husband Kurt, son Rob, grandson Josh and she’s physically and mentally exhausted. Joel Lawson is an engineer, he’s working in Ballycove and checking the church roof.
I received a copy of The Guest House by the Sea by Faith Hogan from NetGalley and Aria and Aries in exchange for an honest review. It’s a thought provoking and insightful narrative about Esme, the Willows and what each of the guests gets out of staying at the holiday house and so much more. Esme shares her wisdom, kindness, gives helpful advice and guidance and new friendships are made. As women we want to do the right thing for everyone else, it's not being selfish to put yourself first and this really resonates with me. Five stars and I’m very keen to read Ms. Hogan’s previous book; The Ladies Midnight Swimming Club.
April 14, 2023
Welp- I don't like it. Although yes, I did enjoy it at some points but it's not my favorite go-to type of fiction.
It was like a slice of life, fluffy, heartfelt and heartbreaking type of fiction and actually I really like it but it's the way that this book has a very unclear plot and undecided destination that made me dislike it.
It's also in the way that this was very dragging, and although it worked well in the end for all the characters, it also left a lot of loose ends that I just don't understand why there was no clarity for it.
I mean the characters were great and we have a lot of main characters, sice it's the type of story that includes a lot of people that intertwined together by the guest house and have their own stories to tell. Like the movie Valentine's Day or the New Year's Eve. Which is great and pretty interesting, but the execution was just weak.
It just had a lot of potential and it could use a little bit of drama, you know? It just felt so flat that I had a hard time finishing this one- so 2 stars from me. It's pretty disappointing cause I had some expectations when the plot got interesting in the beginning but oh well- here we are.
ㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡ
huge thanks to Faith Hogan, her publisher, and netgalley for providing me the arc in exchange for an honest opinion.
It was like a slice of life, fluffy, heartfelt and heartbreaking type of fiction and actually I really like it but it's the way that this book has a very unclear plot and undecided destination that made me dislike it.
It's also in the way that this was very dragging, and although it worked well in the end for all the characters, it also left a lot of loose ends that I just don't understand why there was no clarity for it.
I mean the characters were great and we have a lot of main characters, sice it's the type of story that includes a lot of people that intertwined together by the guest house and have their own stories to tell. Like the movie Valentine's Day or the New Year's Eve. Which is great and pretty interesting, but the execution was just weak.
It just had a lot of potential and it could use a little bit of drama, you know? It just felt so flat that I had a hard time finishing this one- so 2 stars from me. It's pretty disappointing cause I had some expectations when the plot got interesting in the beginning but oh well- here we are.
ㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡ
huge thanks to Faith Hogan, her publisher, and netgalley for providing me the arc in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 17, 2023
Tucked between the pages of this feel-good fiction, is a little warning about the need to tackle the ageism that has pervaded modern society. The Willows Guest House in the Irish village of Ballycove has been operated for almost 200 years by the family of Esme Goldthorpe. Guests are treated like family and problems are solved over a cup of tea and a listening ear. Esme is a true custodian of wisdom and I loved how her age and experience contributed to the success of the guest house.
In addition to ageism, another spotlight that got my hackles up was the greedy developers that tended to see dollar signs and opportunities rather than human beings and history. Hogan shows that age doesn’t need to be a factor in guaranteeing a win against gentrification.
I can always count on this author to provide an entertaining read, yet leave me with a thought-provoking concept or two. Hogan’s focus on vulnerability, connectedness, and the benefits of sharing a burden will stay with me for quite some time.
I was gifted this copy by Aria & Aries and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
In addition to ageism, another spotlight that got my hackles up was the greedy developers that tended to see dollar signs and opportunities rather than human beings and history. Hogan shows that age doesn’t need to be a factor in guaranteeing a win against gentrification.
I can always count on this author to provide an entertaining read, yet leave me with a thought-provoking concept or two. Hogan’s focus on vulnerability, connectedness, and the benefits of sharing a burden will stay with me for quite some time.
I was gifted this copy by Aria & Aries and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 5, 2023
Having read all this amazing authors books was a sheer delight to read this new book, I was totally captivated from the beginning. The amazing and majestic setting along with outstandingly fabulous and mysterious guests who were going to be frequenting Willow House. The interactions between Esme and her guests was so warm and enchanting I just totally loved everything about this beautiful and magical book.
May 26, 2023
This sweet and airy book started a bit slow, and the plot was unclear. I expected something different from what the blurb shared, where these stories would be interwoven, but it failed to deliver for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, for a copy of in return for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, for a copy of in return for my honest review.
June 19, 2023
The Guest House By The Sea was a nice, comforting read.
Some sensitive issues were told, as the abortion, and senile dementia, but they were dealt in a delicate and gentle way.
This book is about four women, of different age, with different lives and a gloomy present. Their stories carefully intertwine from the moment they step into The Willows guest house, they intentionally and unintentionally help each other to take some decisions that will change their future.
I was so caught up in the journey of Esme, Phyllis, Cora and Niamh, I desperately wanted them to have a happy ending.
It was a pleasure to see them start a beautiful friendship and grow fond of each other.
The author wrote this story in such a charming and evocative manner you can smell the fresh sea breeze and see the beautiful landscape from the veranda.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
June 27, 2023
What a lovely fictional escape - this time to the west coast of Ireland and the village of Ballycove. There, the charming old guest house called the Willows, is hosted by eighty-two year old Esme Goldthorpe.
Esme has recently had a fall which has left her immobile. It is early in the season and the guest house is just opening for the summer. Esme's friend and housekeeper Marta takes care of the guests AND Esme who is nearly blind in addition to her injury. But don't think for a moment that Esme does not have a good handle on the guests. She monitors their comings and goings from her dome chair in the entry hall and she is the custodian of the guest book. Esme's guest book is like none other. On every page of the book there is written a quote imparting pearls of wisdom. Esme loves people and she cares about them. She is an excellent listener and imparts sage advice to all who will listen.
This summer's guests include:
Cora, a woman who is dissatisfied with her marriage of thirty years. A marriage that has grown unexciting and stale...
Niamh, a young woman who has been having an affair with a married man and now finds herself pregnant, much to his dismay. Her urges her to 'deal' with it.
Joel, a wealthy engineer, who is staying at the guest house while he works overseeing the replacement of the roof on the village church.
Phyllis, an old friend of Esme's whose beloved husband Kurt is suffering from dementia. She wants Kurt to have one last 'good' summer in the guest house they've visited for years. With them is their widowed son and his four year old boy.
With characters that you come to care for, this was a marvellous and uplifting novel. The people faced some very realistic problems yet the overall tone remained hopeful. It is a book about making life-changing decisions, and having the courage to make them. It is also about contentment and being satisfied with what life has dealt you. Making the most of every day and finding joy in the ordinary.
As with most of this author's novels, the reader finishes the book with a smile. Uplifting women's fiction. Just what the doctor ordered...
4.5 stars rounded up
Esme has recently had a fall which has left her immobile. It is early in the season and the guest house is just opening for the summer. Esme's friend and housekeeper Marta takes care of the guests AND Esme who is nearly blind in addition to her injury. But don't think for a moment that Esme does not have a good handle on the guests. She monitors their comings and goings from her dome chair in the entry hall and she is the custodian of the guest book. Esme's guest book is like none other. On every page of the book there is written a quote imparting pearls of wisdom. Esme loves people and she cares about them. She is an excellent listener and imparts sage advice to all who will listen.
This summer's guests include:
Cora, a woman who is dissatisfied with her marriage of thirty years. A marriage that has grown unexciting and stale...
Niamh, a young woman who has been having an affair with a married man and now finds herself pregnant, much to his dismay. Her urges her to 'deal' with it.
Joel, a wealthy engineer, who is staying at the guest house while he works overseeing the replacement of the roof on the village church.
Phyllis, an old friend of Esme's whose beloved husband Kurt is suffering from dementia. She wants Kurt to have one last 'good' summer in the guest house they've visited for years. With them is their widowed son and his four year old boy.
With characters that you come to care for, this was a marvellous and uplifting novel. The people faced some very realistic problems yet the overall tone remained hopeful. It is a book about making life-changing decisions, and having the courage to make them. It is also about contentment and being satisfied with what life has dealt you. Making the most of every day and finding joy in the ordinary.
As with most of this author's novels, the reader finishes the book with a smile. Uplifting women's fiction. Just what the doctor ordered...
4.5 stars rounded up
June 14, 2023
This heartwarming tale made me want to visit Esme's guest house ASAP and spend weeks by the Irish Sea. Instead, I had this charming story to give me respite and laughs with wonderful guests I grew to love. Ballycove awaits ... don't miss it!
January 27, 2025
A very sweet book about the elderly owner of a B&B in Ireland and the guests who stay during the summer. I have a special affection for books set in Ireland and this is certainly one of them.
May 20, 2023
What an uplifting beautiful story! It quietly wrapped around my heart and tugged on my emotions through its kind and caring atmosphere and messages. I could not help but fall in love with the Irish setting and characters. After reading The Guest House by The Sea, even I wanted to run off and stay in the charming Ballycove accommodation to experience the breathtaking natural beauty, soak up the warm community spirit and enjoy the friendships that abound! This haven is more than just fresh air and Atlantic sea views. It is a place where broken souls can go in need of contemplation, healing, direction and support. It offers a chance to start again.
Esme, the hostess, provides sincere insight for the guests who casually seek her advice. They may not know what they need but after a chat with her, things fall into place and questions get answered. These gentle nudges are more about giving her guests courage to follow their hearts, and to do what is right for themselves—rather than making decisions to please others. Esme’s advice always seems correct and her words flow naturally from one incident to another: through the stories she shares-- based often on her own experience or that of others she has known. Age and experience are wonderfully drawn upon to offer uplifting solutions. I loved the random opening of the guestbook to a page that offers a phrase for the day. Each line always seems appropriate. Is it coincidence or spiritual revelation? Maybe both but there is an interesting story of how these sayings came to be.
The Guest House by The Sea is not only told by Esme the hostess but also through Cora, the wife who has lost passion in her marriage. She arrives after a quarrel with her husband who is stunned by her announced grievances. Cora needs space so goes to the guest house to think about what to do next. Then there is Niamh, the city professional in a forbidden relationship that is disrupted by an unexpected discovery. She retreats to make a tough decision—one that will radically alter her life. Then there is Phyllis, the best friend of Esme. Her husband has received a bad mental health report. She returns to a place of happiness to make more lasting memories before too much slips away.
I was completely engrossed in the happenings of these characters. To see each one grow and find their feet and fulfill their dreams was satisfying. There is true depth and meaning in this story. Friendship, love, self-worth and self- achievement are just a few enriching themes that develop. The advice freely given by Esme is available to all who stay at Willow’s Guest House. She is like a wisdom wizard with the ability to see what others cannot. She reminds us all of the rewards of sharing burdens, the need to be honest with others and ourselves, and the belief that things that are meant to be will work out and people will return to where they belong. These clever truths are all clearly visible on the pages and between the characters who were once strangers until they came together through grief, confusion and loss to find joy, clarity and life. The gift of connectedness came through having the courage to be vulnerable at the right moment with the right people.
Faith Hogan paints a vivid and heart-warming picture in The Guest House by The Sea, that releasing burdens is easy if you have good friends to share with. And that sometimes a little escape to a haven can put things into perspective. And like these guests, let the worries roll away on the waves of the shore under a bright luna sky. Free to live again. 5 Healing Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to publisher Aria and Netgalley for my review copy.
Esme, the hostess, provides sincere insight for the guests who casually seek her advice. They may not know what they need but after a chat with her, things fall into place and questions get answered. These gentle nudges are more about giving her guests courage to follow their hearts, and to do what is right for themselves—rather than making decisions to please others. Esme’s advice always seems correct and her words flow naturally from one incident to another: through the stories she shares-- based often on her own experience or that of others she has known. Age and experience are wonderfully drawn upon to offer uplifting solutions. I loved the random opening of the guestbook to a page that offers a phrase for the day. Each line always seems appropriate. Is it coincidence or spiritual revelation? Maybe both but there is an interesting story of how these sayings came to be.
The Guest House by The Sea is not only told by Esme the hostess but also through Cora, the wife who has lost passion in her marriage. She arrives after a quarrel with her husband who is stunned by her announced grievances. Cora needs space so goes to the guest house to think about what to do next. Then there is Niamh, the city professional in a forbidden relationship that is disrupted by an unexpected discovery. She retreats to make a tough decision—one that will radically alter her life. Then there is Phyllis, the best friend of Esme. Her husband has received a bad mental health report. She returns to a place of happiness to make more lasting memories before too much slips away.
I was completely engrossed in the happenings of these characters. To see each one grow and find their feet and fulfill their dreams was satisfying. There is true depth and meaning in this story. Friendship, love, self-worth and self- achievement are just a few enriching themes that develop. The advice freely given by Esme is available to all who stay at Willow’s Guest House. She is like a wisdom wizard with the ability to see what others cannot. She reminds us all of the rewards of sharing burdens, the need to be honest with others and ourselves, and the belief that things that are meant to be will work out and people will return to where they belong. These clever truths are all clearly visible on the pages and between the characters who were once strangers until they came together through grief, confusion and loss to find joy, clarity and life. The gift of connectedness came through having the courage to be vulnerable at the right moment with the right people.
Faith Hogan paints a vivid and heart-warming picture in The Guest House by The Sea, that releasing burdens is easy if you have good friends to share with. And that sometimes a little escape to a haven can put things into perspective. And like these guests, let the worries roll away on the waves of the shore under a bright luna sky. Free to live again. 5 Healing Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to publisher Aria and Netgalley for my review copy.
June 8, 2023
What an absolutely gorgeous novel! I'm only sorry I've read it already - I would love to just be at the beginning so I can enjoy it all over again.
Esme owns and runs a guest house in Ballycove, by the beach, with the help of Marta. Families have been enjoying holidays there for a long time and the house getting shabbier year by year doesn't really matter; they all leave feeling so much better than when they arrive. However, with a developer desperate to buy the property and her sight failing, Esme wonders if this will be her last summer season. Then, just before they are due to open, Esme takes a tumble with dire consequences, forcing her to take a step back. For the first time, she won't be at the forefront of her business. Is this the end?
For many years, I read everything written by the late Maeve Binchy and I adored her characters and the warmth and wisdom she wrote with. Faith Hogan is her natural successor. She writes such gorgeous books and this is one of her very best. I adored The Girl I Used to Know (highly recommended) and, until this one, would have said it was my favourite but I think it has been usurped. With a fabulous cast of characters and so much going on, I love how Esme at the forefront with everything happening around her. An absolutely wonderful book, which I absolutely highly recommend and one which easily merits all five glowing, shiny and sparkling stars!
Esme owns and runs a guest house in Ballycove, by the beach, with the help of Marta. Families have been enjoying holidays there for a long time and the house getting shabbier year by year doesn't really matter; they all leave feeling so much better than when they arrive. However, with a developer desperate to buy the property and her sight failing, Esme wonders if this will be her last summer season. Then, just before they are due to open, Esme takes a tumble with dire consequences, forcing her to take a step back. For the first time, she won't be at the forefront of her business. Is this the end?
For many years, I read everything written by the late Maeve Binchy and I adored her characters and the warmth and wisdom she wrote with. Faith Hogan is her natural successor. She writes such gorgeous books and this is one of her very best. I adored The Girl I Used to Know (highly recommended) and, until this one, would have said it was my favourite but I think it has been usurped. With a fabulous cast of characters and so much going on, I love how Esme at the forefront with everything happening around her. An absolutely wonderful book, which I absolutely highly recommend and one which easily merits all five glowing, shiny and sparkling stars!
March 24, 2024
I have wanted to read one of Faith Hogan's books for a long time and now I am wondering what took me so long. The Guest House is located in Ballycove on the ocean and has been run by Esme for too many years to remember. Esme is getting older, she is almost blind and when she falls and breaks her leg, she is worried about the season. Her lifelong friend, Phyllis, calls Esme and asks if she and her husband can come and stay. Her husband has the first stages of dementia and Phyllis is trying to keep things as normal as she can for as long as she can. Their son and grandson plan to meet them there and have a vacation. Next we have Cora, a wife who is trying to figure out what to do about her marriage, and Niamh, a professional from London who has a life-changing decision to make. The Guest House, Esme, Marta, and the other guests all help these women heal, make decisions and move forward in their lives.
I really enjoyed this heartwarming and uplifting story. It is beautifully written with descriptions that allowed me to feel like I was there in Ballycove. The quiet setting, friendships that develop, walks on the beach and listening from Esme and Marta allow the main characters do determine what they are really looking for. It helps them to open their eyes to things that were unclear before their stay, so they could make the right decisions. All the characters were relatable with real problems that anyone could have. I enjoyed every minute of this story and now have many more books to add to my TBR shelf. I highly recommend The Guest House by the Sea. I did a read/listen and enjoyed both formats. Aoife McMahon and Flora Montgomery narrated this book and did a great job with the various voices, expression and storyline.
I really enjoyed this heartwarming and uplifting story. It is beautifully written with descriptions that allowed me to feel like I was there in Ballycove. The quiet setting, friendships that develop, walks on the beach and listening from Esme and Marta allow the main characters do determine what they are really looking for. It helps them to open their eyes to things that were unclear before their stay, so they could make the right decisions. All the characters were relatable with real problems that anyone could have. I enjoyed every minute of this story and now have many more books to add to my TBR shelf. I highly recommend The Guest House by the Sea. I did a read/listen and enjoyed both formats. Aoife McMahon and Flora Montgomery narrated this book and did a great job with the various voices, expression and storyline.
March 9, 2023
I received a free copy of, The Guest House by the sea, by Faith Hogan, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I could not finish this book. I read book for joy and the love of reading, but I do not like stories about termination.
June 6, 2023
Esme has run the guest house in Ballycove forever, taking over from her parents, unfortunately due to a fall she is now infirmed for the time being, added to that she is elderly and her eyesight has gone, she is relying more and more on Marta to help her get around and run the guest house. Since her husband died Marta has become like one of the family as they weren't able to have any children. This also means that the roof is in a bit of a state and a developer is determined to get his hands on the guest house - whatever it takes.
The thing is that the guest house by the sea is very special. People come from all over to find themselves, and find new hope. People who meet there can find true love, or realise that true love was with them all the time. This is in no small part to Esme's wisdom, and her special guest book with sayings written in on every day.
A lovely feel- good story with very well crafted characters. I would love to stay in the guest house and meet Esme and her friends. I really enjoyed every page.
The thing is that the guest house by the sea is very special. People come from all over to find themselves, and find new hope. People who meet there can find true love, or realise that true love was with them all the time. This is in no small part to Esme's wisdom, and her special guest book with sayings written in on every day.
A lovely feel- good story with very well crafted characters. I would love to stay in the guest house and meet Esme and her friends. I really enjoyed every page.
May 22, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
This was such a comforting read! I feel like I can picture exactly how Ballycove looks and sounds. It follows multiple characters, each chapter focusing on one in particular. I loved the backstories each character had and the development they all went through. Definitely should be aware of the TW of child loss/abortion, as this is a potentially a sensitive topic for many people.
The one difficulty I struggled with in this book is the lack of plot. There is no build up to anything really. It is solely a character development type of book, which is enjoyable.. personally I do just enjoy a really great plot.
Love reading books by Irish authors, I really enjoyed the writing style of Faith Hogan. I would pick up more of her books in the future❤️
Thank you to net galley for kindly sending me a copy of this book
This was such a comforting read! I feel like I can picture exactly how Ballycove looks and sounds. It follows multiple characters, each chapter focusing on one in particular. I loved the backstories each character had and the development they all went through. Definitely should be aware of the TW of child loss/abortion, as this is a potentially a sensitive topic for many people.
The one difficulty I struggled with in this book is the lack of plot. There is no build up to anything really. It is solely a character development type of book, which is enjoyable.. personally I do just enjoy a really great plot.
Love reading books by Irish authors, I really enjoyed the writing style of Faith Hogan. I would pick up more of her books in the future❤️
Thank you to net galley for kindly sending me a copy of this book
March 30, 2023
The descriptions were described so well that I wanted to visit with the characters at the Willows (guest house). There are wonderful, real situations presented in each of the characters. Not everything goes smoothly for each of them, but there are lessons learned without an iron hand. At the center of the guest house is the wise lady that has sweet tidbits to share about every situation. The story lines are so well woven together and the characters are so real that it's as if you are stepping into the story. When the book was wrapped up, I honestly wanted more.
April 7, 2023
I loved this delightful story set in that magical place that is Ballycove. It's been great to be back there!
Faith Hogan is proving once again what an amazing storyteller she is. We have a great set of characters with very relatable stories, unfolding in a breathtaking background.
I was captivated from the very beginning and enjoyed every page. It's uplifting, funny at times and overall heart-warming. Definitely recommended.
Thank you to Aria Fiction, Head of Zeus, the author and NetGalley for providing an early copy.
Faith Hogan is proving once again what an amazing storyteller she is. We have a great set of characters with very relatable stories, unfolding in a breathtaking background.
I was captivated from the very beginning and enjoyed every page. It's uplifting, funny at times and overall heart-warming. Definitely recommended.
Thank you to Aria Fiction, Head of Zeus, the author and NetGalley for providing an early copy.
January 8, 2025
All of her books are like a long warm hug
June 8, 2023
The author’s books are always rather like a warm hug – whenever you pick one up, it never takes very long for the world around you and any troubles you may have to disappear. I have only to think about Ballycove, the setting for a number of her books, and it makes me relax and smile – and the particularly special corner of it that she’s created in this lovely book really is pretty near perfect. People visit Esme’s guest house, The Willows, to escape from their problems too – or to find the space to make decisions about their lives.
Esme herself is frustrated to be losing her eyesight – in fact, she’s pretty near blind now, unable to read the motivational messages on each page of the guest book – but her friend Marta, having fled from problems of her own, has very willingly taken on an increased workload. And she finds herself needing to do even more when Esme has an accident, breaking her leg and keeping her confined to a chair in the entrance hall, greeting guests as they arrive and dispensing advice whenever it’s needed. The Willows needs major work – the roof is a constant worry – and a local developer is keen to take it off her hands, but Esme is determined to stay put right up to the end.
As well as Esme and Marta’s own story, we share the lives of the individuals who’ve chosen the guest house as their summer refuge. Cara has an unhappy marriage, and arrives alone – she’s just grown to feel that there’s little reason for her to be at home any more. Niamh remembers the place from happy childhood holidays – and needs time to think about her future, and decide what to do about a life-changing personal problem she’s facing. And Phyllis, an old friend, is visiting with her son Rob and young grandson Josh – and her husband Kurt who is slowly succumbing to dementia.
It’s a book largely without major shocks and surprises – the stories are told from the visitors’ own perspectives, the shifts in viewpoint always gentle and clearly signposted, their decision-making helped along by Esme’s well-timed stories and interventions. And, I have to say, I loved every single moment – with the focus on friendship and family, characters I really grew to deeply care about, and a warmth to the unfolding of their stories that’s simply wonderful. Emotionally, it’s totally perfect – there were so many moments that touched my heart and made me smile, often laugh, and then others that had me filling up and wiping away a tear. The storytelling is exceptional – the threads of the story gently wrap themselves around you, draw you in, and The Willows becomes somewhere you really never want to leave either.
I’ve adored every one of Faith Hogan’s books – but, for so many reasons, I think this might just be my personal favourite so far. One for your reading list – I think you might well find you’ll love it too.
Esme herself is frustrated to be losing her eyesight – in fact, she’s pretty near blind now, unable to read the motivational messages on each page of the guest book – but her friend Marta, having fled from problems of her own, has very willingly taken on an increased workload. And she finds herself needing to do even more when Esme has an accident, breaking her leg and keeping her confined to a chair in the entrance hall, greeting guests as they arrive and dispensing advice whenever it’s needed. The Willows needs major work – the roof is a constant worry – and a local developer is keen to take it off her hands, but Esme is determined to stay put right up to the end.
As well as Esme and Marta’s own story, we share the lives of the individuals who’ve chosen the guest house as their summer refuge. Cara has an unhappy marriage, and arrives alone – she’s just grown to feel that there’s little reason for her to be at home any more. Niamh remembers the place from happy childhood holidays – and needs time to think about her future, and decide what to do about a life-changing personal problem she’s facing. And Phyllis, an old friend, is visiting with her son Rob and young grandson Josh – and her husband Kurt who is slowly succumbing to dementia.
It’s a book largely without major shocks and surprises – the stories are told from the visitors’ own perspectives, the shifts in viewpoint always gentle and clearly signposted, their decision-making helped along by Esme’s well-timed stories and interventions. And, I have to say, I loved every single moment – with the focus on friendship and family, characters I really grew to deeply care about, and a warmth to the unfolding of their stories that’s simply wonderful. Emotionally, it’s totally perfect – there were so many moments that touched my heart and made me smile, often laugh, and then others that had me filling up and wiping away a tear. The storytelling is exceptional – the threads of the story gently wrap themselves around you, draw you in, and The Willows becomes somewhere you really never want to leave either.
I’ve adored every one of Faith Hogan’s books – but, for so many reasons, I think this might just be my personal favourite so far. One for your reading list – I think you might well find you’ll love it too.
July 21, 2023
Faith Hogan - The Guest House By The Sea.
Esme is the feisty octogenarian owner of The Willows guesthouse. After an accident, Esme is out of action and totally reliant on her friend and employee Marta.
As the holiday season begins, guests start to arrive. They all come carrying their own troubles and worries.
The Willows is a perfect place to stop and take stock. A place where guests can recharge, pause and consider their next move.
Every day Esme is parked in reception and despite being out of action physically, she still manages to offer words of advice and comfort to all who need it. With her endless supply of stories and words of wisdom from the guest book.
I think I fell a little bit in love with The Willows and it’s residents.
Esme is a wise old bird who isn’t ready for the quiet life any time soon.
Marta is fabulous. A straight talking force of nature.
Cora, Phyllie and Niamh are all going through their own troubles and dilemmas when they arrive at The Willows.
I liked all three women and felt for the situations that they found themselves in.
The setting of the book is idyllic. I could clearly picture the veranda at the front of The Willows. With it’s breathtaking views of the Atlantic ocean, it sounds perfect.
Faith Hogan wrote this story beautifully. The characters are relatable, as are their situations.
This story wrapped itself around my heart and carried me along on it’s journey.
Faith Hogan has sensitively and intelligently covered a number of difficult subjects in this book. It’s a tough read in places, but utterly worth ploughing through anything that touches close to home.
#TheGuestHouseByTheSea is a powerful, but gentle read. Full of Irish charm, wit and warmth.
It’s poignant, touching, bitter sweet, heartbreaking, uplifting and utterly gorgeous.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Netgalley and Aria & Aries for a digital arc of this title.
Esme is the feisty octogenarian owner of The Willows guesthouse. After an accident, Esme is out of action and totally reliant on her friend and employee Marta.
As the holiday season begins, guests start to arrive. They all come carrying their own troubles and worries.
The Willows is a perfect place to stop and take stock. A place where guests can recharge, pause and consider their next move.
Every day Esme is parked in reception and despite being out of action physically, she still manages to offer words of advice and comfort to all who need it. With her endless supply of stories and words of wisdom from the guest book.
I think I fell a little bit in love with The Willows and it’s residents.
Esme is a wise old bird who isn’t ready for the quiet life any time soon.
Marta is fabulous. A straight talking force of nature.
Cora, Phyllie and Niamh are all going through their own troubles and dilemmas when they arrive at The Willows.
I liked all three women and felt for the situations that they found themselves in.
The setting of the book is idyllic. I could clearly picture the veranda at the front of The Willows. With it’s breathtaking views of the Atlantic ocean, it sounds perfect.
Faith Hogan wrote this story beautifully. The characters are relatable, as are their situations.
This story wrapped itself around my heart and carried me along on it’s journey.
Faith Hogan has sensitively and intelligently covered a number of difficult subjects in this book. It’s a tough read in places, but utterly worth ploughing through anything that touches close to home.
#TheGuestHouseByTheSea is a powerful, but gentle read. Full of Irish charm, wit and warmth.
It’s poignant, touching, bitter sweet, heartbreaking, uplifting and utterly gorgeous.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Netgalley and Aria & Aries for a digital arc of this title.
June 23, 2023
Esme Goldthorp is in her 80’s and she is still running her Guest House near the beautiful shore of Ballycove, Ireland. Due to a fractured ankle, she finds herself relying on her good friend Marta to run the house. Esme spends her days mostly sitting in the parlor where she is available to her guests to offer a listening ear, support and some very interesting life stories that somehow are relevant to each guest’s particular need at the time. Many of the guests have vacationed here before and they bring with them good memories of times spent at the guest house in years gone by.
This summer some of her guests have returned with a heavy heart. Cora is escaping a marriage that seems loveless and lonely. Esme’s old friend Phillis is coming to terms with her husband’s dementia and another guest, Niamh, has found herself pregnant and the father is a married man.
There is a lot going on at the guest house this summer and Esma is a great comfort to all while handling her own troubles.
This book was a delight to read. I enjoyed all the characters and getting to know each person and their individual troubles. The Guest house offered a welcome respite to all, including this reader.
This summer some of her guests have returned with a heavy heart. Cora is escaping a marriage that seems loveless and lonely. Esme’s old friend Phillis is coming to terms with her husband’s dementia and another guest, Niamh, has found herself pregnant and the father is a married man.
There is a lot going on at the guest house this summer and Esma is a great comfort to all while handling her own troubles.
This book was a delight to read. I enjoyed all the characters and getting to know each person and their individual troubles. The Guest house offered a welcome respite to all, including this reader.
February 3, 2024
The first book of 2024 for our Sister's Book Club and this was my Sister's pick. Ballycove is becoming one of my favourite book locales and The Guest House by the Sea is a place we all might want to visit for a respite from our troubles. Esme, along with her dear friend, Marta's help, run the Guest House. It may be looking a little shabby these days, and Esme's sight is failing her. After a fall and a broken ankle the first day of the summer season, she is relegated to holding court in a chair in the entry hall to greet and get to know her guests. Her guests are all looking for a calm from the storm of their own lives and they find it at the the Guest House. Esme's sight might be failing her, but not her insight to her guests' personalities and the problems that they are trying to sort out.
Esme is feeling useless and old and frail and just when she is wondering if this is the last season that the Guest House will be open, her guests help her see that all is not lost. This is a book about hope, friendship, love and also loss, about the courage to take a chance on a second chance, and also about the courage to start over. Loved it! Faith Hogan has done it again! Ballycove is a book destination you need in your life.
Esme is feeling useless and old and frail and just when she is wondering if this is the last season that the Guest House will be open, her guests help her see that all is not lost. This is a book about hope, friendship, love and also loss, about the courage to take a chance on a second chance, and also about the courage to start over. Loved it! Faith Hogan has done it again! Ballycove is a book destination you need in your life.
May 29, 2023
Esme's has been the owner of the Guest House by the Sea for a long time. She is losing her eyesight, and worried about who will take over ownership of the guest house. Esme takes a fall and while she is in the hospital, guest start arriving.
The guest are each taking a break from the life they have been living. They each form a friendship, and help Esme. While there, they seem to rejuvenate their soul, see things differently, and maybe have a second chance at a life that makes them happy.
We see who they were when they came to the guest house, who they were becoming while there, and how life is after they leave. Sometimes you just have to take a little vacation by yourself, you realize the things you were missing, while thinking things wasn't as you thought they should be. Esme knows that the guest house by the sea will live on long after she is gone.
I received an ARC from Aria through NetGalley.
The guest are each taking a break from the life they have been living. They each form a friendship, and help Esme. While there, they seem to rejuvenate their soul, see things differently, and maybe have a second chance at a life that makes them happy.
We see who they were when they came to the guest house, who they were becoming while there, and how life is after they leave. Sometimes you just have to take a little vacation by yourself, you realize the things you were missing, while thinking things wasn't as you thought they should be. Esme knows that the guest house by the sea will live on long after she is gone.
I received an ARC from Aria through NetGalley.
June 8, 2023
What a wonderful storyteller Faith Hogan is. I was totally captivated by the characters, storylines & setting. The Willows is a home from home at Ballycove run by Esme and her mother for many years before her. Now she runs it with her friend Marta. Disaster strikes days before the summer season when Esme falls and breaks her leg. While not able to run after her guests she can lend a listening ear, offer advice & share the daily meaningful quote from the guest book.
Cora, has been married to her Michael a long time & needs some me time, city girl Niamh wants to think about her future while old friend Phyllis wants to hold onto special times with her darling husband Kurt & her family. Cora, meanwhile catches the eye of Dublin based handsome engineer Joel..
They've all come to Ballycove for a reason and being there helps them to see what they must hold onto & what they must let go. Absolutely loved this book. A solid 5* from me.
Cora, has been married to her Michael a long time & needs some me time, city girl Niamh wants to think about her future while old friend Phyllis wants to hold onto special times with her darling husband Kurt & her family. Cora, meanwhile catches the eye of Dublin based handsome engineer Joel..
They've all come to Ballycove for a reason and being there helps them to see what they must hold onto & what they must let go. Absolutely loved this book. A solid 5* from me.
June 2, 2023
This is a very easy, mostly very positive read where no matter what problems are faced there is a good outcome in the end. Totally unlike real life, but then we do need escapism some of the time and I enjoyed the location, the Irish village of Ballycove where octogenarian Esme has her guest house by the sea, The Willows.
Different guests come and go and their lives and trials link up in places. There is always a timely phrase to reflect on as written in the guest book which Esme points people to, stuck as she is in a chair as the story starts with her breaking her leg.
A little bit twee for me at times but overall a charming read which will delight many readers with its simplicity and gentleness. I do think I preferred The Ladies' Midnight Swimming Club but certainly Faith Hogan is a reader worth making space on your bookshelf for.
With thanks to Pigeonhole for serialising the story and allowing me the opportunity to read this feel good book.
Different guests come and go and their lives and trials link up in places. There is always a timely phrase to reflect on as written in the guest book which Esme points people to, stuck as she is in a chair as the story starts with her breaking her leg.
A little bit twee for me at times but overall a charming read which will delight many readers with its simplicity and gentleness. I do think I preferred The Ladies' Midnight Swimming Club but certainly Faith Hogan is a reader worth making space on your bookshelf for.
With thanks to Pigeonhole for serialising the story and allowing me the opportunity to read this feel good book.
June 8, 2023
I don't know how Faith does it, but she makes you feel like you're sitting right there in the lounge with Esmé and her guests. You feel like you're part of the conversation and get the desperate urge to share your story and get her opinions.
I felt a connection in small ways with every single character.
I want to visit the Willows in every season, and despite the cold and the storms mentioned, I want to be there in winter too!
I loved how the characters developed friendships with each other and learned that troubles shared are troubles halved.The stunning friendships that spanned ages, the fact that it didn't matter if you were in your 30's or 80's there was a kinship and they're just brought together. I loved the 'found family' aspects as always. This one is a little bit different.
The connections made tugged at my heartstrings and I was sad to leave the Willows.
I felt a connection in small ways with every single character.
I want to visit the Willows in every season, and despite the cold and the storms mentioned, I want to be there in winter too!
I loved how the characters developed friendships with each other and learned that troubles shared are troubles halved.The stunning friendships that spanned ages, the fact that it didn't matter if you were in your 30's or 80's there was a kinship and they're just brought together. I loved the 'found family' aspects as always. This one is a little bit different.
The connections made tugged at my heartstrings and I was sad to leave the Willows.
June 2, 2023
Read over ten days with my bookclub Pigeonhole.
This was such a heartwarming and uplifting read.
Esme is the owner of Ballycove, a lovely guesthouse by the sea. Esme is laid up after she has a fall, so it's left to her long-time friend Marta to welcome the guests.
Cora married to Michael for thirty years is fed up. She wants a change, so she stays at the guesthouse to work out what she wants from life.
Niamh finds herself pregnant by a married man. What does she want to do?
Phyllis, whose husband Kurt has the start of dementia.
Esme has wise words for each of her guests.
I would love a week in Ballycove.
I was invited to read this by the publisher Aria and Aries, so many thanks to them and Netgalley for the ARC.
This was such a heartwarming and uplifting read.
Esme is the owner of Ballycove, a lovely guesthouse by the sea. Esme is laid up after she has a fall, so it's left to her long-time friend Marta to welcome the guests.
Cora married to Michael for thirty years is fed up. She wants a change, so she stays at the guesthouse to work out what she wants from life.
Niamh finds herself pregnant by a married man. What does she want to do?
Phyllis, whose husband Kurt has the start of dementia.
Esme has wise words for each of her guests.
I would love a week in Ballycove.
I was invited to read this by the publisher Aria and Aries, so many thanks to them and Netgalley for the ARC.
September 26, 2023
What a wonderful book. It drew me in from the first few pages and kept me reading til the end.
Ballycove is home to The Willows Guest House, home of Esme for man, many years. Over those years, many people have stayed there, for holidays, to regroup or to simply while away the days.
It's the start of the summer season, and disaster strikes, Esme falls and finds she's confined to a chair in the hall. However, all is not as bad as she thinks, and she spends the summer getting to know her guests. Some old friends, some new friends, each with a story to tell.
It's a must-read book, especially if you like stories set in Ireland, family stories, stories with a message.
I've saved each of Faith Hogan's books in my Must Read list, and I'm going to be working my way through them.
Ballycove is home to The Willows Guest House, home of Esme for man, many years. Over those years, many people have stayed there, for holidays, to regroup or to simply while away the days.
It's the start of the summer season, and disaster strikes, Esme falls and finds she's confined to a chair in the hall. However, all is not as bad as she thinks, and she spends the summer getting to know her guests. Some old friends, some new friends, each with a story to tell.
It's a must-read book, especially if you like stories set in Ireland, family stories, stories with a message.
I've saved each of Faith Hogan's books in my Must Read list, and I'm going to be working my way through them.
February 3, 2024
I picked The guest house by the sea by Faith Hogan for The sisters bookclub 2024 first read. Ever since reading The ladies' midnight swimming club I eagerly awaited each new book. Once again taking place in Ballycove, Ireland, three women arrive at Willows guest house to escape a crisis in their lives, and try to make difficult decisions. Esme, the owner of Willows, falls right before the summer season, and now has to sit on the sidelines for the first time. Even with failing eye sight she manages to dispense sage advice to those staying with her. Cora, Phyllis and Niamh are dealing with problems many women deal with every day. I loved the characters, and especially the return to Ballycove.
Even though Faith Hogan's novel take place in the same village, they are all standalones.
Even though Faith Hogan's novel take place in the same village, they are all standalones.
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