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Winter Street #3
Winter Storms
Gather under the mistletoe for one last round of caroling with the Quinn family in this heartwarming conclusion to Elin Hilderbrand's bestselling Winter Street Trilogy.
Some of the stormy weather of the past few seasons seems to have finally lifted for the Quinns. After a year apart, and an ill-fated affair with the Winter Street Inn's old Santa Claus, Mitzi has returned to rule the roost; Patrick is about to be released from prison; Kevin has a successful new business and is finally ready to tie the knot with Isabelle; and best of all, there's hopeful news about Bart, who has been captured by enemy forces in Afghanistan.
That doesn't mean there aren't a few dark clouds on the horizon. Kelley has recently survived a health scare; Jennifer can't quite shake her addiction to the drugs she used as a crutch while Patrick was in jail; and Ava still can't decide between the two lovers that she's been juggling with limited success. However, if there's one holiday that brings the Quinn family together to give thanks for the good times, it's Christmas. And this year promises to be a celebration unlike any other as the Quinns prepare to host Kevin and Isabelle's wedding at the inn. But as the special day approaches, a historic once-in-a-century blizzard bears down on Nantucket, threatening to keep the Quinns away from the place--and the people--they love most. Before the snow clears, the Quinns will have to survive enough upheavals to send anyone running for the spiked eggnog, in this touching novel that proves that when the holidays roll around, you can always go home again.
Some of the stormy weather of the past few seasons seems to have finally lifted for the Quinns. After a year apart, and an ill-fated affair with the Winter Street Inn's old Santa Claus, Mitzi has returned to rule the roost; Patrick is about to be released from prison; Kevin has a successful new business and is finally ready to tie the knot with Isabelle; and best of all, there's hopeful news about Bart, who has been captured by enemy forces in Afghanistan.
That doesn't mean there aren't a few dark clouds on the horizon. Kelley has recently survived a health scare; Jennifer can't quite shake her addiction to the drugs she used as a crutch while Patrick was in jail; and Ava still can't decide between the two lovers that she's been juggling with limited success. However, if there's one holiday that brings the Quinn family together to give thanks for the good times, it's Christmas. And this year promises to be a celebration unlike any other as the Quinns prepare to host Kevin and Isabelle's wedding at the inn. But as the special day approaches, a historic once-in-a-century blizzard bears down on Nantucket, threatening to keep the Quinns away from the place--and the people--they love most. Before the snow clears, the Quinns will have to survive enough upheavals to send anyone running for the spiked eggnog, in this touching novel that proves that when the holidays roll around, you can always go home again.
246 pages, Hardcover
First published October 4, 2016
5928 people are currently reading
25757 people want to read
About the author
Elin Hilderbrand
81books56kfollowersElin Hilderbrand lives on Nantucket with her husband and their three young children. She grew up in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, and traveled extensively before settling on Nantucket, which has been the setting for her five previous novels. Hilderbrand is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and the graduate fiction workshop at the University of Iowa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,471 reviews
November 24, 2021
3 Stars
Dear Ava:
Find a spine.
Put it on.
Practice standing up alone with it.
The end.
Dear Ava:
Find a spine.
Put it on.
Practice standing up alone with it.
The end.
December 7, 2018
I have a confession to make—try not to cringe when you read what I’m about to say—I don’t like Christmas themed books. Of course, I love Christmas, who doesn’t? The decorating, the wrapping, the gift giving, the meaning behind it all and the serious addiction I have to the Chestnut Praline latte at Starbucks, but corny Christmas stories? Not so much.
The Winter series has become the one exception to my staunch refusal to curl up with a holiday story. In fact, the Quinn family has been a part of my Christmas tradition for the last three years. Ms. Hilderbrand’s ability to capture and create what feels like natural connections and believable family drama is phenomenal. These books are free of cornball antics and over-the-top Christmas magic, so if you’re anything like me, have no fear. This is a cast of characters and a family you can’t help but to fall for.
I was a ball of emotions going in to . I was dying for answers—Ms. Hilderbrand has a knack for ending things with unresolved storylines—and also incredibly sad. Heart-broken. In denial. This had been marketed at as a trilogy, meaning this would be the final book, and I wasn’t ready to let go. And then I saw this . . .
*A huge THANK YOU to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Winter series has become the one exception to my staunch refusal to curl up with a holiday story. In fact, the Quinn family has been a part of my Christmas tradition for the last three years. Ms. Hilderbrand’s ability to capture and create what feels like natural connections and believable family drama is phenomenal. These books are free of cornball antics and over-the-top Christmas magic, so if you’re anything like me, have no fear. This is a cast of characters and a family you can’t help but to fall for.
I was a ball of emotions going in to . I was dying for answers—Ms. Hilderbrand has a knack for ending things with unresolved storylines—and also incredibly sad. Heart-broken. In denial. This had been marketed at as a trilogy, meaning this would be the final book, and I wasn’t ready to let go. And then I saw this . . .
Can I just say, I’m BEYOND excited! I cannot wait for more of the Quinn family; and from Bart?! Bring it on. I have a feeling, Christmas 2017 in Nantucket is going to be very interesting.
*A huge THANK YOU to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2016
I have really mixed feelings about this one.
(1) It was a quick read, and I enjoyed reading it. I have liked the series and was interested in finding out how the story "ends."
(2) I feel like this book left out SO much. It would just skip big parts of time.
(3) Elin Hilderbrand gave herself a plug in the book... and that bothered me a lot. One of the characters mentioned Hilderbrand's book 'A Beautiful Day.' I just thought that an author trying to work her own books into a plot was a bit tacky.
(4) Ending was blah.
2.75. Still will read her future books though.
(1) It was a quick read, and I enjoyed reading it. I have liked the series and was interested in finding out how the story "ends."
(2) I feel like this book left out SO much. It would just skip big parts of time.
(3) Elin Hilderbrand gave herself a plug in the book... and that bothered me a lot. One of the characters mentioned Hilderbrand's book 'A Beautiful Day.' I just thought that an author trying to work her own books into a plot was a bit tacky.
(4) Ending was blah.
2.75. Still will read her future books though.
November 8, 2023
The WINTER series is absolutely one of my favorite Christmas series. ❄�
Elin Hilderbrand has such a beautiful way of infusing this series with the perfect touches of Christmas tradition, cold weather, the family drama that inevitably ensues when everyone gathers together for the holdiays, and heartwarming moments of joy.
In this third installment, WINTER STORMS, we get more closure than we have before. Couples who have struggled are finding their way and forging forward in their lives. Our sweet Ava, who always seems to be torn between the two men she can't decide between, Scott and Nathan, makes a decision, and it may surprise you. There are wedding bells ringing for some. And hope in situations where there has seemed to be none. Still, this installment had some real tearjerker moments. I'm waiting to read book four. Very much recommended. ❄🎄❄🎄
Elin Hilderbrand has such a beautiful way of infusing this series with the perfect touches of Christmas tradition, cold weather, the family drama that inevitably ensues when everyone gathers together for the holdiays, and heartwarming moments of joy.
In this third installment, WINTER STORMS, we get more closure than we have before. Couples who have struggled are finding their way and forging forward in their lives. Our sweet Ava, who always seems to be torn between the two men she can't decide between, Scott and Nathan, makes a decision, and it may surprise you. There are wedding bells ringing for some. And hope in situations where there has seemed to be none. Still, this installment had some real tearjerker moments. I'm waiting to read book four. Very much recommended. ❄🎄❄🎄
November 10, 2018
I am one of those lucky readers that has just finished reading this and knows darn well that the ŷ tag is a bold faced lie. Why? Because Elin Hilderbrand did not end her story of the Quinn family here. In fact, Winter Solstice is sitting on my nightstand in anticipation.
In this third installment, Kelley and Mitzi still hold out hope that their son, Bart, will return from Afghanistan now that a soldier from his group has been discovered. Jennifer and the boys welcome Patrick home from prison. But Jennifer is still popping pills. Kevin and Isabelle face a tough decision. Margaret and Dr. Drake walk down the aisle and a few more couples might be following their lead. Oh and Ava is about to choose between Scott and Nathaniel( I hope). Let me tell you this fictional family has become close to me and EH made the tears flow freely. Such a good story!
In this third installment, Kelley and Mitzi still hold out hope that their son, Bart, will return from Afghanistan now that a soldier from his group has been discovered. Jennifer and the boys welcome Patrick home from prison. But Jennifer is still popping pills. Kevin and Isabelle face a tough decision. Margaret and Dr. Drake walk down the aisle and a few more couples might be following their lead. Oh and Ava is about to choose between Scott and Nathaniel( I hope). Let me tell you this fictional family has become close to me and EH made the tears flow freely. Such a good story!
August 9, 2020
A series with heart that kept me coming back for more.
When we return to the Winter Street Inn, Mitzi and Kelley have reunited and she is back running the Inn as if she never left and Kelley couldn’t be happier.
Though she has struggled as of late, Jennifer is anxiously awaiting the date that Patrick is released from prison, hoping that will solve all of her problems. Kevin and Isabelle have finally moved out of the Inn, and in shocking news, Kevin has launched a successful beachside business. In addition, their entire family is most excited for their upcoming nuptials in December! Ava however, is still torn between Nathaniel and Scott.
The entire Quinn clan is of course, still hoping against hope that Bart will be returned to them. I admit to crossing my fingers and toes throughout this series myself!
A series with heart that kept me coming back for more. You sure know how to tug at my heartstrings Elin Hilderbrand! I anxiously awaited the final book in the series “Winter Solstice� which I listened to immediately after this book.
Thanks to my local library for loaning me a copy of the audiobook.
Published on ŷ on 8.9.20.
When we return to the Winter Street Inn, Mitzi and Kelley have reunited and she is back running the Inn as if she never left and Kelley couldn’t be happier.
Though she has struggled as of late, Jennifer is anxiously awaiting the date that Patrick is released from prison, hoping that will solve all of her problems. Kevin and Isabelle have finally moved out of the Inn, and in shocking news, Kevin has launched a successful beachside business. In addition, their entire family is most excited for their upcoming nuptials in December! Ava however, is still torn between Nathaniel and Scott.
The entire Quinn clan is of course, still hoping against hope that Bart will be returned to them. I admit to crossing my fingers and toes throughout this series myself!
A series with heart that kept me coming back for more. You sure know how to tug at my heartstrings Elin Hilderbrand! I anxiously awaited the final book in the series “Winter Solstice� which I listened to immediately after this book.
Thanks to my local library for loaning me a copy of the audiobook.
Published on ŷ on 8.9.20.
October 13, 2016
I'm really sorry this is the last one. I've truly enjoyed this trilogy. I still loved the first one the most. I remember laughing constantly. Highly recommended reads. Especially around the Christmas holidays. They'll definitely put you in the spirit.
December 16, 2016
Before I get to this review, there's a couple of things I feel the need to say:
1) I have nothing but the utmost respect for authors who put their works out into the world. It's incredibly hard work to "birth" a book, and then subject yourself to everyone's opinion.
2) Elin Hilderbrand is a model of strength, grace, and perseverance. She faced cancer head-on, and from what she's shared publicly it seems she's on the winning side of that battle. She works hard to help others who are facing cancer, financially and in spirit.
The more I read, the more I feel I'm able to hone in on what sorts of books appeal to me, and which ones do not. While "Winter Storms" is getting good reviews from many other reviewers, I just find that these sorts of books no longer resonate with me. The story line seemed both dull and predictable. Problems were solved much too easily. Characters were inauthentic.
I know many readers who love this genre, and if that's the case I'd direct them to read other reviews of this book. However, if you're leery of "chick lit" I can't say I'd recommend this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Brown & Company for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
1) I have nothing but the utmost respect for authors who put their works out into the world. It's incredibly hard work to "birth" a book, and then subject yourself to everyone's opinion.
2) Elin Hilderbrand is a model of strength, grace, and perseverance. She faced cancer head-on, and from what she's shared publicly it seems she's on the winning side of that battle. She works hard to help others who are facing cancer, financially and in spirit.
The more I read, the more I feel I'm able to hone in on what sorts of books appeal to me, and which ones do not. While "Winter Storms" is getting good reviews from many other reviewers, I just find that these sorts of books no longer resonate with me. The story line seemed both dull and predictable. Problems were solved much too easily. Characters were inauthentic.
I know many readers who love this genre, and if that's the case I'd direct them to read other reviews of this book. However, if you're leery of "chick lit" I can't say I'd recommend this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Brown & Company for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2016
When the author dropped the name of one of her books (as a gift at a wedding shower,) I remembering thinking, "So we have reached the apogee of the product placement." I was reading some of the reviews of this book. Like others, I have long grown weary of the name dropping involving restaurants, businesses and products of Nantucket. Do I understand why the author does it? Of course. It boosts the local economy. Live out the book! But it's annoying as hell. A serious weakness. Like other reviewers, I felt this story could have been told in one book. Dragging it into a trilogy wasn't a great idea. This last book was dryer lint. Boring and disposable. On the flip side, she understands what her reading public is: beach goers, Nantucket visitors, romantic fantasy, sex, and food. In the end, I felt this book highlighted every weakness the writer possesses. The ironic thing is that I am a ready made reader for anything to do with Cape Cod. I hated this book.
December 3, 2018
The Quinns are back!!
This time the book begins way before Christmas.
Jennifer is steel dealing with her pill addiction.
Ava is dating both Nathaniel and Scott (hard to have a favorite. Neither is worth it).
Kevin is getting prepared for his wedding to Isabelle (The plan is to get married during the Christmas Holiday).
Margaret might be walking down the aisle herself.
Kelley has a health issue (I was not prepared for this one. Plenty of tears were shed).
Mitzi is back with Kelley.
Patrick is getting out of prison after doing his time for inside trading.
Lastly, Bart might be alive and coming home for good.
So many sad and wonderful things are happing to the Quinns and I didn't want to miss any of it. There's plenty of drama to go around for this family. There were so many lingering questions from the prior two books and it was nice to get some closure (Although, one more book is out there).
I'm thankful for these books and for Mrs. Hilderbrand sharing these characters with us. I love the Winter series. Their drama, their hope, their happiness only made the season even more wonderful for me.
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
| | |
August 22, 2016
Why does this series have to end?? I love these characters and I want to continue following them. I'm hoping maybe we'll at least get another novella out of it at some point. I won't give any spoilers, but there are a lot of loose ends tied up (finally!). At times, it almost felt a bit rushed -- it's definitely faster paced than the first two books in the series, but very satisfying. I will recommend that you read books 1 and 2 before starting this one. You'll be lost if you start with book 3.
*Thank you, Edelweiss, for providing an advanced copy. I loved it!
*Thank you, Edelweiss, for providing an advanced copy. I loved it!
December 1, 2019
I am so very glad that I picked up this series... I love it! Wonderful 3rd installment, can't wait to pick up the last one!
December 23, 2021
December 19, 2021: I was able to sit and read this book cover-to-cover all in one day, and I loved it more than the last time I read it (if that's even possible). This story was incredibly comforting to me several years ago in the time soon after my dad passed, and every year when I read it, something new stands out to me and tugs at my heartstrings.
I get to reread the final book in the series now, and I'm never ready to say goodbye to the Quinn family. I love them all so much, as if they were real people in my life.
_________
January 4, 2019: I cannot say anything better than I said in my full review from 11.16.16 for this installment so I'll defer to that one, except I will add this: I have never loved this series more than I do right now, and this third book is my favorite of this reread. Which means it is technically my favorite one of them all right now.
The Quinn family isn't playing around anymore. There is far too much to lose. They want everyone at home, together, safe, healthy, and happy. That's what we all want, really, so I think that's why I connect so deeply with these characters. The last third of this book nearly kills me, but when I get to the end EVERY TIME, I catch my breath and hug the book and think sighhh now it's time for the last one again. (If she wrote ten of these books, I'd read them all.)
________
November 16, 2016: I have loved this trilogy so much. I'm so sad that it is over and yet I feel good about knowing what happened with these characters that I have grown to love so much. In the style of the previous two books, this was a quick and easy read with moments to chuckle over mixed with the more serious parts of the plot. In a departure from the previous two books, this installment covers the entire year since the last book, where the first two books in the trilogy focus on just the holiday season.
We get answers to some of the characters' issues that have been brewing throughout the entire trilogy, which is so great. I particularly loved what the author did with Bart's story, with Kevin and Isabelle, and with Ava - I was really wondering if Ava would ever line her life up in a way that makes her happy, and I feel like she finally has. Other characters have also found stability and happiness, and I'm thrilled for them. (For some, I think they probably found it just a little too easily, but okay.)
I maintain that I enjoyed reading Jennifer's prescription pill plot-line most, probably, throughout the entire trilogy. I felt like it was compelling enough to be taken seriously, but not overly heavy as to sour the upbeat holiday tone of the book. Such a roller coaster ride, and it felt believable and true-to-life that one can find his/herself in a situation similar to Jennifer's, and that quickly and easily. I felt such compassion for that character in every instance.
Overall, the best thing about this series is the way that this family is zany and always moving at top-speed and always seems to be running late to the point of complete dysfunction - and yet things fall in place just in time for them. Reading their stories should have made me feel stressed, but it did not - I think this is because of the author's writing style and the ease of movement between POV's. These characters made me smile because they remind me in some ways of my own family. Despite everything, or perhaps because of it, they love one another and this love for family matters more than anything else.
Love this book, LOVE this series. These books are on my rereads shelf for the holidays. So super-glad that I found them.
I get to reread the final book in the series now, and I'm never ready to say goodbye to the Quinn family. I love them all so much, as if they were real people in my life.
_________
January 4, 2019: I cannot say anything better than I said in my full review from 11.16.16 for this installment so I'll defer to that one, except I will add this: I have never loved this series more than I do right now, and this third book is my favorite of this reread. Which means it is technically my favorite one of them all right now.
The Quinn family isn't playing around anymore. There is far too much to lose. They want everyone at home, together, safe, healthy, and happy. That's what we all want, really, so I think that's why I connect so deeply with these characters. The last third of this book nearly kills me, but when I get to the end EVERY TIME, I catch my breath and hug the book and think sighhh now it's time for the last one again. (If she wrote ten of these books, I'd read them all.)
________
November 16, 2016: I have loved this trilogy so much. I'm so sad that it is over and yet I feel good about knowing what happened with these characters that I have grown to love so much. In the style of the previous two books, this was a quick and easy read with moments to chuckle over mixed with the more serious parts of the plot. In a departure from the previous two books, this installment covers the entire year since the last book, where the first two books in the trilogy focus on just the holiday season.
We get answers to some of the characters' issues that have been brewing throughout the entire trilogy, which is so great. I particularly loved what the author did with Bart's story, with Kevin and Isabelle, and with Ava - I was really wondering if Ava would ever line her life up in a way that makes her happy, and I feel like she finally has. Other characters have also found stability and happiness, and I'm thrilled for them. (For some, I think they probably found it just a little too easily, but okay.)
I maintain that I enjoyed reading Jennifer's prescription pill plot-line most, probably, throughout the entire trilogy. I felt like it was compelling enough to be taken seriously, but not overly heavy as to sour the upbeat holiday tone of the book. Such a roller coaster ride, and it felt believable and true-to-life that one can find his/herself in a situation similar to Jennifer's, and that quickly and easily. I felt such compassion for that character in every instance.
Overall, the best thing about this series is the way that this family is zany and always moving at top-speed and always seems to be running late to the point of complete dysfunction - and yet things fall in place just in time for them. Reading their stories should have made me feel stressed, but it did not - I think this is because of the author's writing style and the ease of movement between POV's. These characters made me smile because they remind me in some ways of my own family. Despite everything, or perhaps because of it, they love one another and this love for family matters more than anything else.
Love this book, LOVE this series. These books are on my rereads shelf for the holidays. So super-glad that I found them.
March 27, 2025
Another really good book by Elin Hilderbrand. This is a series called Winter Street and this is second book I have read. I will read them all. This is a family story, of course, about family who has an Inn on an island near Conneticut. ?sp? There is the main character, the owner of the men who two ex wifes are completely involved through his life because of their children. I definitely recommend if you like a good family story.
January 7, 2024
the character development in this one is truly unmatched. Quinn family forever<3
November 26, 2016
All of my reviews can be found on
Elin Hilderbrand is one of my auto buy authors, nothing says summertime like one of her books. A couple of years ago she came out with Winter Street followed by Winter Stroll and I was thrilled. One of my favorite beach read authors was writing a Christmas series?! Bliss. I’ve often wanted to hear about how different Nantucket is during the winter months and it sounds every bit as enchanting as I had imagined.
This is the third book in a trilogy and I really wouldn’t recommend starting here. The first two books are so great and you would be missing out on such a fun series! Here’s what I suggest. Buy all three, you won’t have to wait like I did, and read them all under a plush throw next to your Christmas tree. I promise that they will not only entertain you, they’ll put you in a festive mood.
I’ve really come to love the Quinn family by now. They are a totally dysfunctional group, but aren’t most families a little bit dysfunctional? In her usual fashion, Hilderbrand has a different character narrating every chapter. I’ll break down the family dynamics really quickly, but trust me when I say that I think you’ll at least like every single one of them, maybe even love them. Kelley is the father and matriarch, he has two ex wives, Mitzi and Margaret. He runs an inn in Nantucket with Mitzi and they have a son Bart. He’s a marine and has been missing in Afghanistan. Margaret is a news anchor for CBS and they have three children together; Patrick, Kevin and Ava. Patrick is married to Jennifer and he’s in jail for a white collar crime. (Fraud) Kevin is engaged to Isabelle and has a baby daughter. Ava is an elementary music teacher and is dating two men, Nathaniel and Scott. Phew! I’ll stop there, that’s only the tip of the iceberg.
Erin Bennett did a fantastic job as the narrator, her voice is soothing and melodic, but very entertaining. Coupled with an amazing narrator, you have this fascinating plot with so much going on. Every single person in the Quinn family has their own personal struggles and issues and I loved seeing how they dealt with them as well as how they interacted with each other. I’m really bummed that the series is over, I have to wait until next summer for a new Hilderbrand book?!
Elin Hilderbrand is one of my auto buy authors, nothing says summertime like one of her books. A couple of years ago she came out with Winter Street followed by Winter Stroll and I was thrilled. One of my favorite beach read authors was writing a Christmas series?! Bliss. I’ve often wanted to hear about how different Nantucket is during the winter months and it sounds every bit as enchanting as I had imagined.
This is the third book in a trilogy and I really wouldn’t recommend starting here. The first two books are so great and you would be missing out on such a fun series! Here’s what I suggest. Buy all three, you won’t have to wait like I did, and read them all under a plush throw next to your Christmas tree. I promise that they will not only entertain you, they’ll put you in a festive mood.
I’ve really come to love the Quinn family by now. They are a totally dysfunctional group, but aren’t most families a little bit dysfunctional? In her usual fashion, Hilderbrand has a different character narrating every chapter. I’ll break down the family dynamics really quickly, but trust me when I say that I think you’ll at least like every single one of them, maybe even love them. Kelley is the father and matriarch, he has two ex wives, Mitzi and Margaret. He runs an inn in Nantucket with Mitzi and they have a son Bart. He’s a marine and has been missing in Afghanistan. Margaret is a news anchor for CBS and they have three children together; Patrick, Kevin and Ava. Patrick is married to Jennifer and he’s in jail for a white collar crime. (Fraud) Kevin is engaged to Isabelle and has a baby daughter. Ava is an elementary music teacher and is dating two men, Nathaniel and Scott. Phew! I’ll stop there, that’s only the tip of the iceberg.
Erin Bennett did a fantastic job as the narrator, her voice is soothing and melodic, but very entertaining. Coupled with an amazing narrator, you have this fascinating plot with so much going on. Every single person in the Quinn family has their own personal struggles and issues and I loved seeing how they dealt with them as well as how they interacted with each other. I’m really bummed that the series is over, I have to wait until next summer for a new Hilderbrand book?!
December 1, 2022
As I continue through 2022’s holiday movie season I have enjoyed reading this Elin Hilderbrand series which reminds me so much of those holiday movies I adore! 🎥 🍿
Book 3 has much more family drama. (Oh, Ava, Ava, Ava! What are you doing now?) Book 3 also has a blizzard, of course and a wedding! 💒
Okay I gotta go find my Christmas cookie cutters now!
Book 3 has much more family drama. (Oh, Ava, Ava, Ava! What are you doing now?) Book 3 also has a blizzard, of course and a wedding! 💒
Okay I gotta go find my Christmas cookie cutters now!
November 27, 2016
Thank you Elin Hilderbrand for not ending this series the way I thought it was heading. Thank you for leaving the reader with something for the imagination and Christmas magic hope. Thank you for transporting me to the magic of Nantucket for Christmas the past few years. I enjoyed my time there immensely. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the Quinn family's lives and grow to care about the characters as if I knew them in real life. And overall, thank you for a series that I eagerly looked forward to every year for a bit of Christmas magic and escapism.
Devotees of the series know that Winter Storms is the final book in the fast paced, ever changing Winter series. We needed closure and to find out what happens to our favorite members of the Quinn family, especially Bart, who we haven't really met yet! Closure and much more is found in this final book. We learn Bart's fate, how Jennifer copes with her addiction, Kelley's prognosis, Margaret's nuptials, what is Ava's choice, how Patrick reenters society, will Kevin marry Isabelle and feel he has a place in the world, and how Santa George and Mitzi reacclimate themselves into the Quinn family. Whew... just typing all that should be a hint at how much is packed into this short novel. In fact, that is probably my one complaint. This novel read too fast. I kept trying to slow down and savor the experience. However, the fast past story and my excitement to see what happens to my favorite character, Ava, took over. Several plot lines became "conveniently" packed up rather quickly; which I felt could have been explored more. There is still so much that still could be written. I'd love to see an Ava or Bart spin off series. Don't end our Christmas magic, !
Thank you Netgalley and Little Brown and Co. for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review. It was truly a pleasure and privilege to do so. Happy Holidays!
Devotees of the series know that Winter Storms is the final book in the fast paced, ever changing Winter series. We needed closure and to find out what happens to our favorite members of the Quinn family, especially Bart, who we haven't really met yet! Closure and much more is found in this final book. We learn Bart's fate, how Jennifer copes with her addiction, Kelley's prognosis, Margaret's nuptials, what is Ava's choice, how Patrick reenters society, will Kevin marry Isabelle and feel he has a place in the world, and how Santa George and Mitzi reacclimate themselves into the Quinn family. Whew... just typing all that should be a hint at how much is packed into this short novel. In fact, that is probably my one complaint. This novel read too fast. I kept trying to slow down and savor the experience. However, the fast past story and my excitement to see what happens to my favorite character, Ava, took over. Several plot lines became "conveniently" packed up rather quickly; which I felt could have been explored more. There is still so much that still could be written. I'd love to see an Ava or Bart spin off series. Don't end our Christmas magic, !
Thank you Netgalley and Little Brown and Co. for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review. It was truly a pleasure and privilege to do so. Happy Holidays!
December 12, 2018
The Quinn Family is back with more drama and Elin Hilderbrand's 3rd book in the Winter Street series. This books is a quick little book that reads like a guilty pleasure soap opera. Fun for the holidays!
July 19, 2016
Perfect ending to an awesome trilogy
May 16, 2020
The third book in Elin Hilderbrand's Winter series, Winter Storms, is my favorite so far. This novel starts just a few months after the conclusion of Winter Stroll (#2) in the spring, and readers accompany the Quinn family throughout the entire year instead of just a few days like the first two books.
While the drama and dysfunction has calmed for the Quinns in Winter Storms, there does seem to be a fair amount of disaster and misfortune for this ever-growing family.
Kelley, the patriarch, is plagued with health issues that were alluded to at the end of Winter Stroll. Mitzi is back at his side however, and they are awaiting news of son Bart who has been captured and help prisoner for nearly two years. Patrick is serving his prison sentence for insider trading, but his wife Jennifer is falling apart in his absence. The Quinns are preparing for Kevin and Isabelle's wedding at the Winter Street Inn on Christmas Eve. Ava has dumped the two loser boyfriends and found herself a proper beau, and Margaret Quinn, Kelley's first wife, is now married to the doctor, but they remain a part of this family justs the same.
I was really wondering about the title, Winter Storms, throughout the reading of Book 3 and wondered if maybe it was only metaphorical since the family deals with much disaster. However, there is a spectacular Nor'easter that makes travel difficult for everyone at Christmas time.
On another note, I must say that the favors at Isabelle's bridal shower were PERFECT--each person received a copy of Elin Hilderbrand's Beautiful Day, which is about a wedding on Nantucket. Some might call this shameless for the author to write herself into the plot of her novel, but I LOVE IT! I love this, Elin! In fact, if I ever host a bridal shower, this will be the favor for all guests in attendance.
While the drama and dysfunction has calmed for the Quinns in Winter Storms, there does seem to be a fair amount of disaster and misfortune for this ever-growing family.
Kelley, the patriarch, is plagued with health issues that were alluded to at the end of Winter Stroll. Mitzi is back at his side however, and they are awaiting news of son Bart who has been captured and help prisoner for nearly two years. Patrick is serving his prison sentence for insider trading, but his wife Jennifer is falling apart in his absence. The Quinns are preparing for Kevin and Isabelle's wedding at the Winter Street Inn on Christmas Eve. Ava has dumped the two loser boyfriends and found herself a proper beau, and Margaret Quinn, Kelley's first wife, is now married to the doctor, but they remain a part of this family justs the same.
I was really wondering about the title, Winter Storms, throughout the reading of Book 3 and wondered if maybe it was only metaphorical since the family deals with much disaster. However, there is a spectacular Nor'easter that makes travel difficult for everyone at Christmas time.
On another note, I must say that the favors at Isabelle's bridal shower were PERFECT--each person received a copy of Elin Hilderbrand's Beautiful Day, which is about a wedding on Nantucket. Some might call this shameless for the author to write herself into the plot of her novel, but I LOVE IT! I love this, Elin! In fact, if I ever host a bridal shower, this will be the favor for all guests in attendance.
February 6, 2017
I wasn't even going to read this, but I had it from the library and basically decided to hate-read it. I actually found Ava slightly less annoying this time. I felt like the purpose of this book was to give every single character a shiny happy ending and I thought that was boring. I didn't notice it in the other two books, but in this one, the writing was so undescriptive. (For example, "He did this." "She went there.") I did think it was nice that Elin name-dropped a couple of other authors in her genre (a character was reading Jane Green and another author). And then she name dropped her own book and I just had to roll my eyes at that.
December 5, 2017
Things are looking up for the Quinn family. Mitzi and Kelley are back together, supporting one another through Kelley's health crisis and in their shared worry over Bart's capture in Afghanistan. Patrick is out of jail and Jennifer is working hard in her battle with drug addiction. Kevin is running a successful business of his own, and he and Isabelle are planning a Christmas wedding. Ava has decided to focus on herself and pursue her dreams of big city life.
But life is not without it's ups and downs, conflicts and stress, which makes the Quinn's so familiar and likeable.
Glad to see there is a fourth book in the series.
But life is not without it's ups and downs, conflicts and stress, which makes the Quinn's so familiar and likeable.
Glad to see there is a fourth book in the series.
January 13, 2021
Winter Storms was another easy read about the Quinn family. Most, if not all, of the outstanding issues from Winter Stroll were resolved, so I’m curious to see what the final book of the series will entail.
October 5, 2016
The best part of this book is that it is a continuation of the same characters I've read about in her previous books. So I enjoyed seeing what happened to them. But otherwise it was bland and superficial (amazing how quickly Jennifer was "cured" of her drug addition) and not very captivating.
April 27, 2017
I liked the story, but it's written horribly.
My high school English students could do better. Choppy sentences, immature characters, predictable.
I know I'm a reading snob, but it was plain awful writing.
My high school English students could do better. Choppy sentences, immature characters, predictable.
I know I'm a reading snob, but it was plain awful writing.
November 18, 2016
Dull end to a dull trilogy Having just read another third entry of a trilogy it just seemed like there wasn't high hopes for the closing entry of Hilderbrand's "Winter" trilogy of books. The second book was really very much a bridge between Acts 1 and 3 so expectations were low. But it's almost Thanksgiving in the US and after reading Marie Lu's 'Young Elites' trilogy it seemed like something lighter (and holiday-related) was in order.
Weddings happen. There are some happily ever after afters. Good news that the characters have been waiting on finally comes in. Family secrets are revealed and partners make up. "Bad" characters (or at least the antagonists) move on with their lives and get themselves together. Choices are made, some for he good, some maybe not so much. The book perhaps does not quite end up in a happily ever after for every single character but close enough.
It was somewhat nice to get closure and to get some forward movement in some of the storylines, but not every single one was to my liking. Ava is still a highly indecisive, annoying character who can't decide between her choices of men (seriously, what is it about her that appeals to anyone and why doesn't she go off on her own in the end???). Why does a long-running storyline in the trilogy (and the darkest of all them) get little to no follow-through? We waited 3 books for this to happen (and to happen the way it did) but it gets lost in the rest of the book. In retrospect I actually didn't like how this was handled. It certainly didn't have to be a dominant storyline in the books (since the character is missing throughout nearly all of them) but it felt like Hildebrand just threw it in there....just because.
I find it a bit hilarious that reviewers didn't like the self-plug. Clearly the author was trying to be clever but when there are so many who point it out in a negative manner it means it wasn't executed well.
Overall, I couldn't quite relate to the book or its characters. This hit home to me when the author mentions the election (and it's clear it's referring to the 2016 election based on a letter's date at the end) in an off-handed manner occasionally throughout the story. That it's not relevant to the story's events are fine. It just emphasized to me that books like this tend to portray people who live in bubbles and don't seem to be affected by the outside world at all and at the moment that hits a little too close to home right now. And if it's meant to be an escape from reality then...write a better story next time.
I suppose for the right audience some people would really like this and it might make for a good snowy holiday read (or even a good set to borrow if you have a long/connecting flights and need to kill time). I was interested enough to know how Hildebrand would resolve everyone's stories but in the end there's nothing about the trilogy that would make me want to read any of her other books.
Weddings happen. There are some happily ever after afters. Good news that the characters have been waiting on finally comes in. Family secrets are revealed and partners make up. "Bad" characters (or at least the antagonists) move on with their lives and get themselves together. Choices are made, some for he good, some maybe not so much. The book perhaps does not quite end up in a happily ever after for every single character but close enough.
It was somewhat nice to get closure and to get some forward movement in some of the storylines, but not every single one was to my liking. Ava is still a highly indecisive, annoying character who can't decide between her choices of men (seriously, what is it about her that appeals to anyone and why doesn't she go off on her own in the end???). Why does a long-running storyline in the trilogy (and the darkest of all them) get little to no follow-through? We waited 3 books for this to happen (and to happen the way it did) but it gets lost in the rest of the book. In retrospect I actually didn't like how this was handled. It certainly didn't have to be a dominant storyline in the books (since the character is missing throughout nearly all of them) but it felt like Hildebrand just threw it in there....just because.
I find it a bit hilarious that reviewers didn't like the self-plug. Clearly the author was trying to be clever but when there are so many who point it out in a negative manner it means it wasn't executed well.
Overall, I couldn't quite relate to the book or its characters. This hit home to me when the author mentions the election (and it's clear it's referring to the 2016 election based on a letter's date at the end) in an off-handed manner occasionally throughout the story. That it's not relevant to the story's events are fine. It just emphasized to me that books like this tend to portray people who live in bubbles and don't seem to be affected by the outside world at all and at the moment that hits a little too close to home right now. And if it's meant to be an escape from reality then...write a better story next time.
I suppose for the right audience some people would really like this and it might make for a good snowy holiday read (or even a good set to borrow if you have a long/connecting flights and need to kill time). I was interested enough to know how Hildebrand would resolve everyone's stories but in the end there's nothing about the trilogy that would make me want to read any of her other books.
November 27, 2016
I wish I looked back at my reviews of the first two entries in this series before choosing to read this one. If I had, I would never in a million years have wasted time on this useless dreck. I finished it, but only because it was relatively short.
If you've followed the series, you already know the members of the Quinn family who populate this book. You also know that their lives are filled with drama and tragedy and that every day brings a new crisis. You know that your heart will not be filled with holiday spirit unless you decide that the books are so bad that they really are quite funny; (that's the approach that caused me to keep reading and to laugh out loud throughout the book.)
For some reason, this one gets good reviews from many readers; so if you are thinking about adding this to your holiday list, you may very well find that you enjoy it quite a bit. All I can say is that there's no storm on earth as tumultuous as this wreck of a book.
If you've followed the series, you already know the members of the Quinn family who populate this book. You also know that their lives are filled with drama and tragedy and that every day brings a new crisis. You know that your heart will not be filled with holiday spirit unless you decide that the books are so bad that they really are quite funny; (that's the approach that caused me to keep reading and to laugh out loud throughout the book.)
For some reason, this one gets good reviews from many readers; so if you are thinking about adding this to your holiday list, you may very well find that you enjoy it quite a bit. All I can say is that there's no storm on earth as tumultuous as this wreck of a book.
October 13, 2016
I love this series and Elin is living her best life, and I died when at the wedding shower one of her own books was given as a gift.
December 13, 2020
by was supposed to be the final book of the Winter series, but it actually ended up being second to last. This does not mean it is any less emotional or funny than the other books though, and personally I felt it ended in a bit of a cliffhanger, so I was happy that it wasn't the end! This book actually starts in the spring, so it isn't just focused on Christmastime, and I really loved that it dug deeper into some of the character's lives. The Quinns are now one of my favorite fictional families and I have become so attached to them through this series. Winter Storms is funny and heartwarming, but like the other books in the series, incredibly emotional as well.
There is some romance in this one, but I think the main focus is really just on the character's individual lives and the romance takes a bit of a backseat to that. However, there are definitely still romance aspects and when they are there, they warm your heart and also make you gasp. There's still family drama because how would this book be complete without it, but I thought it was a little tamer than in the first two. This is the perfect series to read around the holidays, and I highly recommend reading them in order. I did the audio and thought Erin Bennett did a great job with the series.
There is some romance in this one, but I think the main focus is really just on the character's individual lives and the romance takes a bit of a backseat to that. However, there are definitely still romance aspects and when they are there, they warm your heart and also make you gasp. There's still family drama because how would this book be complete without it, but I thought it was a little tamer than in the first two. This is the perfect series to read around the holidays, and I highly recommend reading them in order. I did the audio and thought Erin Bennett did a great job with the series.
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