Overview & Book Review
In The Five-Star Weekend, Elin Hilderbrand delivers a compelling and heartwarming tale set against the picturesque backdrop of Nantucket Island. The story follows Hollis Shaw, a popular food blogger who is reeling from the sudden and tragic death of her husband, Jack. Struggling to cope with her grief and the distance growing between her and her daughter Caroline, Hollis decides to take a bold step to reconnect with her life and her loved ones. She organizes a “five-star weekend,” inviting four women from different stages of her life—her best friend from childhood, her college roommate, her friend from her early married years, and a new friend she made later in life—to join her for a weekend retreat on Nantucket.
As the weekend unfolds, each woman brings her own baggage, secrets, and unresolved issues, which inevitably come to the surface. The idyllic setting contrasts with the emotional complexities of the characters, creating a rich narrative that explores friendship, loss, forgiveness, and the quest for self-discovery. Hilderbrand’s signature style shines through with vivid descriptions of Nantucket’s beauty, mouth-watering details of gourmet food, and the intricate web of relationships that bind the characters together.
The Five-Star Weekend is more than just a summer read; it’s a reflective journey through the lives of women who are at a crossroads, each seeking closure, connection, and a path forward. Hilderbrand masterfully weaves together the different storylines, making the novel a page-turner that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The book balances the lightness of a beach read with deeper emotional themes, making it a satisfying and thought-provoking experience for readers.
Whether you’re looking for a story that captures the essence of female friendship or one that delves into the complexities of life’s unexpected twists and turns, The Five-Star Weekend offers a bit of everything—wrapped up in Hilderbrand’s evocative prose and set in a location that feels like a character in its own right.
Book Club Discussion Questions
- How does Hollis Shaw’s career as a food blogger influence her relationships and the events of the weekend?
- Discuss the significance of the different friendships in Hollis’s life. How do they reflect different stages of her personal growth?
- How does the setting of Nantucket Island contribute to the overall mood and themes of the novel?
- How does grief shape the actions and decisions of the characters throughout the story?
- The novel alternates between different characters’ perspectives. How does this narrative structure affect your understanding of the story?
- Were there any characters or subplots that you found particularly compelling or relatable? Why?
- How do the themes of forgiveness and redemption play out in the story?
- What role does social media and Hollis’s public persona play in the unfolding of the plot?
- How do you think the characters’ relationships will evolve after the weekend?
- What do you think the title The Five-Star Weekend symbolizes in the context of the story?
For more discussion questions be sure to check out our full Book Club Discussion Guide Kit here.
Character List
- Hollis Shaw: The protagonist, a food blogger who organizes the five-star weekend.
- Matthew Shaw: Hollis’s deceased husband, whose death prompts the weekend gathering.
- Tatum: Hollis’s close friend from Nantucket, whose life is intertwined with the island.
- Dru-Ann: A friend from Hollis’s college days, now a successful journalist.
- Brooke: Hollis’s friend from her early years of marriage, who has her own struggles with her family.
- Gigi: A newer friend, who Hollis met through her blog, representing her current life.
- Caroline: Hollis’s daughter, who is also dealing with her own personal challenges during the weekend.
A Five-Star Feast: Book Club Menu
If you’re hosting a book club to discuss Elin Hilderbrand’s The Five-Star Weekend, why not elevate the experience with a menu that captures the essence of Nantucket and the culinary flair of the novel’s protagonist, Hollis Shaw? These three menu items are inspired by the book and are sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of this beloved island. Plus, don’t forget to check out the full book club discussion guide at the end of this post for more recipes and fun cocktails to make your gathering truly unforgettable!
1. Lobster Rolls
Nothing says Nantucket quite like a lobster roll. Inspired by the coastal setting of the novel, these lobster rolls are the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Freshly caught lobster is tossed in a light, creamy dressing with a hint of lemon, then piled high in a buttery, toasted bun. This dish brings a taste of the sea to your book club, making it a must-try for any fan of The Five-Star Weekend. Check out the full recipe here!
2. Caprese Salad Skewers
For a lighter, refreshing option, these Caprese salad skewers are a fantastic choice. Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves are skewered and drizzled with a balsamic reduction, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. These skewers are a nod to Hollis Shaw’s love for simple yet elegant dishes that are perfect for sharing with friends. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, they’re an ideal addition to your book club spread. Get the full recipe here!
3. Blueberry Cobbler
End your gathering on a sweet note with a blueberry cobbler that’s as warm and inviting as the friendships explored in the novel. This dessert features juicy, ripe blueberries tucked beneath a golden, crumbly crust, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a dish that embodies the comfort and nostalgia of summer, making it the perfect finale to your five-star book club experience.
Want More?
These three dishes are just the beginning! To truly bring The Five-Star Weekend to life at your book club, be sure to check out our full book club discussion guide. It’s packed with additional recipes, including fun cocktails inspired by the novel, as well as discussion questions, character lists, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned book club host or just getting started, our guide has everything you need to create an unforgettable literary evening. Cheers to a five-star weekend with friends, food, and fantastic conversation!
FAQs for The Five-Star Weekend Book Club Discussion Guide
What is The Five-Star Weekend about?
The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand follows Hollis Shaw, a successful food blogger who, after the sudden death of her husband, decides to reconnect with her past by hosting a weekend getaway on Nantucket Island. She invites friends from different stages of her life, each bringing their own secrets and challenges. Over the course of the weekend, the women navigate their relationships, confront unresolved issues, and ultimately rediscover the importance of friendship and self-healing. The novel blends emotional depth with the charm of a summer beach read, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Nantucket.
How can I access the Book Club Discussion Guide Kit?
You can download the comprehensive Book Club Discussion Guide Kit here.
What does the Book Club Discussion Guide Kit include?
The guide includes discussion questions, activity ideas, recipes inspired by the novel, decoration tips, and more to enhance your book club experience.
Are there specific recipes related to The Five-Star Weekend in the guide?
Yes, the guide features recipes such as our Lobster Corn Chowder and we’ve included a bonus cocktail menu to enjoy.
How can I use the guide to facilitate a discussion?
The guide includes thoughtfully crafted discussion questions that delve into the key themes and character dynamics of the novel, helping to spark engaging conversations.
Where can I find more information about Elin Hilderbrand and her work?
Our guide includes a section on the author, providing insights into her background and other works.
Can I share my book club’s experience with others?
We encourage you to share your experiences and photos on social media using the hashtag #averypeachylife
How do I provide feedback or suggestions for future book club guides?
We’d love to hear from you! You can leave your feedback and suggestions in the comments section of our blog or contact us directly here.
Don’t forget, you can get our full book club discussion guide in a print-friendly format for your next book club meeting here. Each purchase helps us continue providing great book lists and book resources.
Happy reading!
Peach
