I wasn't sure going in if I would like this book but the simple character studies won me over. The action revolves around Stone House, a residence turned hotel in western Ireland. Each character, from the staff to the guests, gets their own chapter that advances the story by a day or so. I liked that we learned only the bare essentials about each person but it didn't feel thin or rushed. The women characters are all strong in their own way, be it leaving home against their family's wishes or carving out a life that suits them instead of caving in to their peers. I'll keep Binchy in mind the next time I want a quaint, cozy read.
