The Five-Star Weekend

by Elin Hilderbrand • 2023 • 384 pages

4.02

283.2K ratings

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Plot Summary

Hollis's Unexpected Loss and Invitation

Hollis Shaw's life changes drastically

Hollis Shaw, a successful food blogger, is thrust into a world of grief when her husband, Matthew, dies in a car accident. In an attempt to heal, she organizes a "Five-Star Weekend" at her Nantucket home, inviting friends from different phases of her life: high school friend Tatum, college roommate Dru-Ann, Wellesley friend Brooke, and Gigi, a woman she met through her blog. This gathering is Hollis's way of seeking solace and reconnecting with her past, hoping the presence of these friends will help her navigate her loss and find a path forward.

Caroline's Emotional Return to Nantucket

Caroline grapples with her father's death

Caroline, Hollis's daughter, reluctantly agrees to film the weekend for her mother's blog, driven by the financial incentive. Still processing her father's sudden death, she feels a rift between herself and her mother. Returning to Nantucket, Caroline is haunted by memories of her father and their shared traditions. Her encounter with Dylan, a childhood acquaintance, offers a fleeting distraction, but her emotions remain raw as she struggles to find her footing amidst the weekend's unfolding events.

Tatum's Secret and Hollis's Past

Tatum faces personal challenges and old memories

Tatum, Hollis's childhood friend, is secretly dealing with a health scare. Her presence at the weekend is a mix of support for Hollis and a confrontation with her own life choices. The arrival of Tatum's husband, Kyle, and their old friend Jack, stirs up memories and unresolved feelings. Tatum's journey is one of loyalty and resilience, as she navigates the complexities of her friendship with Hollis and the changes that have occurred since Hollis became a "summer person."

Dru-Ann's Public Scandal Unfolds

Dru-Ann's career is in jeopardy

Dru-Ann, a successful sports agent, arrives at the weekend amidst a public relations crisis. Her controversial comments about mental health have gone viral, threatening her career. As she grapples with the fallout, Dru-Ann reflects on her personal and professional life, including her relationship with Nick, which is now on hold. The weekend offers her a temporary escape, but the pressure of her situation looms large, challenging her to find a balance between ambition and vulnerability.

Gigi's Hidden Connection to Hollis

Gigi's secret threatens the weekend

Gigi, the enigmatic guest, harbors a secret connection to Hollis—she was having an affair with Hollis's late husband, Matthew. Her presence at the weekend is fraught with tension as she grapples with guilt and the fear of her secret being exposed. Despite her internal turmoil, Gigi manages to charm the other guests, but the weight of her deception hangs over the gathering, threatening to unravel the carefully curated weekend and the relationships within it.

Breakfast Reunion and Old Flames

Hollis reconnects with past love

At breakfast, Hollis finds herself surrounded by old friends, including Jack Finigan, her high school sweetheart. The gathering is filled with nostalgia and laughter, yet beneath the surface, Hollis feels a mix of excitement and unease. Jack's presence stirs old feelings, and while the group reminisces about their past, Hollis is reminded of the complexities of her current life. The breakfast serves as a reminder of the comfort of old friendships and the unresolved emotions that Jack's presence brings.

Tensions Rise Among Friends

Old grudges and new conflicts emerge

As the weekend progresses, tensions among Hollis's friends begin to surface. Tatum and Dru-Ann, who have a history of rivalry, find themselves at odds once again. Tatum's jealousy and Dru-Ann's career troubles add to the strain. Meanwhile, Brooke struggles with her own insecurities, feeling out of place among the group. The idyllic setting of Nantucket becomes a backdrop for unresolved issues, as each woman grapples with personal challenges and the dynamics of their friendships.

Secrets and Revelations Unfold

Gigi's hidden past comes to light

The weekend takes a dramatic turn when Gigi's secret connection to Hollis's late husband, Matthew, is revealed. Gigi had been having an affair with Matthew, a truth that threatens to unravel the carefully curated weekend. As the revelation comes to light, the group is forced to confront the reality of their relationships and the impact of hidden truths. Hollis is left to navigate her feelings of betrayal and the challenge of maintaining the weekend's purpose of healing and connection.

Emotional Confrontations and Resolutions

Friends face their truths and reconcile

The emotional intensity of the weekend reaches its peak as the women confront their personal demons and each other. Hollis and Gigi have a heart-to-heart, where Gigi confesses her affair with Matthew and the reasons behind her actions. Meanwhile, Tatum and Dru-Ann finally address their long-standing issues, leading to a moment of reconciliation. Brooke finds the courage to embrace her true self, revealing her sexuality to the group. These confrontations lead to a deeper understanding and a renewed sense of friendship among the women.

A Weekend of Unexpected Truths

The weekend concludes with newfound clarity

As the weekend draws to a close, the women reflect on the unexpected truths that have emerged. Hollis, despite the pain of betrayal, finds a sense of closure and the strength to move forward. The group acknowledges the complexities of their relationships and the importance of honesty and forgiveness. The weekend, initially intended as a healing retreat, becomes a transformative experience for each woman, leaving them with a clearer sense of self and the bonds that connect them.

Reflections and New Beginnings

Hollis and friends embrace change

In the aftermath of the weekend, Hollis and her friends return to their lives with a renewed perspective. Hollis considers making Nantucket her permanent home, embracing the changes in her life with optimism. The friendships, tested by the events of the weekend, emerge stronger and more authentic. As they part ways, each woman carries with her the lessons learned and the promise of new beginnings. The Five-Star Weekend, though fraught with challenges, ultimately becomes a catalyst for growth and healing.

Characters

Hollis Shaw

Resilient widow seeking closure

Hollis is the central figure of the weekend, hosting the gathering in hopes of finding solace after her husband's death. Her journey is one of confronting past relationships and hidden truths, particularly the revelation of her husband's affair. Despite the emotional turmoil, Hollis emerges with a renewed sense of self and the strength to embrace change.

Caroline Shaw-Madden

Daughter struggling with loss

Caroline is Hollis's daughter, who is still reeling from her father's death. She agrees to film the weekend for her mother's blog, but her relationship with Hollis is strained. Caroline's journey is one of emotional turmoil as she confronts her grief and the changes in her family dynamic. Her interactions with Dylan and the other guests highlight her struggle to find her place in a world without her father.

Tatum McKenzie

Loyal friend facing personal fears

Tatum is Hollis's childhood friend, dealing with a health scare and the challenges of her own life choices. Her journey involves confronting her jealousy and reconciling with Dru-Ann. Tatum's character is defined by her resilience and the depth of her friendship with Hollis, ultimately finding peace in her personal struggles.

Dru-Ann Jones

Ambitious friend in crisis

Dru-Ann is a successful sports agent facing a public relations scandal. Her journey involves navigating the fallout from her actions and reconciling with Tatum. Dru-Ann's character is marked by her ambition and vulnerability, as she learns to balance her career with personal relationships.

Gigi Ling

Enigmatic guest with a hidden past

Gigi's affair with Hollis's late husband is the catalyst for much of the weekend's drama. Her character is defined by her charm and the weight of her deception. Gigi's journey involves confronting her guilt and seeking forgiveness, ultimately finding a sense of closure and understanding.

Brooke Kirtley

Supportive friend embracing her truth

Brooke is Hollis's friend from Wellesley, who struggles with her own insecurities and feelings of inadequacy. Her journey involves embracing her sexuality and finding the courage to be true to herself. Brooke's character is marked by her vulnerability and the strength she finds in her friendships.

Jack Finigan

Charming ex-lover rekindling old flames

Jack is Hollis's high school sweetheart, whose presence at the weekend stirs unresolved feelings. His easygoing nature and connection to Hollis's past provide both comfort and complexity. Jack's interactions with Hollis highlight the enduring impact of first loves and the possibility of rekindling old connections.

Plot Devices

The Five-Star Weekend

A gathering for healing and revelation

The weekend serves as a central plot device, bringing together Hollis's friends from different phases of her life. It acts as a catalyst for exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and personal growth. The weekend's events lead to unexpected revelations and emotional confrontations, ultimately fostering healing and connection.

Gigi's Secret Affair

A hidden truth with profound impact

Gigi's affair with Hollis's late husband is a significant plot device that adds tension and intrigue to the weekend. Her secret challenges the dynamics between the guests and forces Hollis to confront her feelings of betrayal. This plot device explores themes of deception, guilt, and the complexity of human relationships.

Caroline's Filming Project

A lens on family dynamics and truth

Caroline's role as the documentarian of the weekend offers insight into the characters' interactions and underlying tensions. Her filming project highlights the contrast between public appearances and private realities, providing a framework for exploring themes of grief, family dynamics, and personal growth.

Analysis

Exploration of grief, friendship, and healing

"The Five-Star Weekend" by Elin Hilderbrand delves into the complexities of grief, friendship, and personal growth. Through the lens of Hollis Shaw's journey, the novel explores how individuals cope with loss and the importance of connection in healing. The gathering of friends from different life stages serves as a microcosm for examining the dynamics of relationships, the impact of hidden truths, and the power of forgiveness. The book underscores the idea that healing is a multifaceted process, often requiring confrontation with uncomfortable truths and the courage to embrace change. Ultimately, the story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring bonds of friendship.

Last updated: February 1, 2025

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Synopsis & Basic Details

What is The Five-Star Weekend about?

Grief-stricken blogger hosts weekend : After the sudden death of her husband, food blogger Hollis Shaw organizes a "Five-Star Weekend" at her Nantucket home, inviting four friends from different stages of her life.
Friendships tested by secrets : The weekend becomes a catalyst for exploring complex relationships, hidden truths, and personal growth as the women confront their pasts and present challenges.
Healing through connection : The story delves into themes of grief, betrayal, and forgiveness, highlighting the importance of human connection in navigating life's unexpected turns.

Why should I read The Five-Star Weekend?

Emotional depth and relatability : The novel explores complex emotions like grief, jealousy, and insecurity, making the characters and their struggles feel authentic and relatable.
Intriguing character dynamics : The interactions between the five women, each with their own unique history and personality, create a compelling and engaging narrative.
Exploration of female friendships : The story delves into the nuances of female friendships, showcasing both the support and the challenges that come with these relationships.

What is the background of The Five-Star Weekend?

Nantucket setting : The story is set on Nantucket Island, a location that is both a source of comfort and a reminder of the past for Hollis, influencing her relationships and memories.
Social media influence : The novel incorporates the impact of social media and online communities on personal lives, as Hollis's food blog and its followers play a significant role in the plot.
Contemporary themes : The story touches on contemporary issues such as grief, mental health, and the complexities of modern relationships, making it relevant to today's readers.

What are the most memorable quotes in The Five-Star Weekend?

"You've changed. And we've changed." : This quote, spoken by Matthew to Hollis, encapsulates the central theme of change and the evolution of relationships over time.
"I'm here to listen." : Gigi's simple text to Hollis after Matthew's death highlights the power of empathy and the importance of offering support during times of grief.
"It's your life story in friends." : This quote, from the Motherlode article, inspires Hollis to host the Five-Star Weekend, emphasizing the significance of friendships in shaping one's identity.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Elin Hilderbrand use?

Multiple perspectives : The narrative shifts between the perspectives of different characters, providing a multifaceted view of the events and their emotional impact.
Detailed descriptions : Hilderbrand uses vivid descriptions of the setting, food, and clothing to create a rich and immersive reading experience.
Foreshadowing and callbacks : The author employs subtle foreshadowing and callbacks to create a sense of interconnectedness and to enhance the emotional resonance of the story.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The sea glass windows : The sea glass in the windows of Hollis's house symbolizes her connection to Nantucket and her past, contrasting with her more recent "summer person" identity.
The names of the houses : The main house is called "First Light," symbolizing new beginnings, while the guest cottage is called "The Twist," hinting at the unexpected turns in the story.
The Hootie and the Blowfish T-shirt : Matthew's Hootie and the Blowfish T-shirt, which Caroline wants to keep, represents a connection to his past and a reminder of his personality.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

Matthew's comment about the party : Matthew's line, "We can both agree this is your party, sweet-love. With all the Swellesley glitterati in attendance, you won't even notice I'm not there," foreshadows his absence and the emotional distance in their marriage.
Tatum's text about the outdoor shower: Tatum's text to Hollis about having sex in the outdoor shower foreshadows the later revelation of her own sexual desires and her desire to live like a summer person.
The recurring mention of the Round Room : The Round Room, a place where Hollis and Jack parked in high school, becomes a significant location for their reunion, highlighting the cyclical nature of their relationship.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Gigi and Matthew's affair: The revelation of Gigi's affair with Hollis's late husband is a major plot twist, creating a complex connection between Gigi and Hollis and adding layers of betrayal and grief.
Caroline and Dylan's past: The connection between Caroline and Dylan, stemming from their mothers' friendship, adds an unexpected layer of romance and nostalgia to the story.
Dru-Ann and Brooke's history: The history between Dru-Ann and Brooke, revealed through their interactions, highlights the complexities of female friendships and the lasting impact of past hurts.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Kyle McKenzie : Tatum's husband, Kyle, serves as a grounding force in her life, providing support and a connection to her past. His presence also highlights the contrast between local and summer life on Nantucket.
Isaac Opoku : Caroline's boss, Isaac, is a significant influence on her, both professionally and personally. His mentorship and their brief affair add a layer of complexity to Caroline's emotional journey.
Terri Falcone : Terri, the owner of a local hair salon, provides a glimpse into the social dynamics of Nantucket and serves as a reminder of Hollis's past.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Hollis's need for control: Hollis's meticulous planning of the Five-Star Weekend stems from a need to control her environment and emotions in the face of grief and loss.
Tatum's desire for validation: Tatum's actions, such as hiding her health concerns and seeking validation from Kyle, reveal her deep-seated insecurities and her need for reassurance.
Dru-Ann's fear of vulnerability: Dru-Ann's public persona as a strong, successful woman masks her fear of vulnerability and her need to maintain control over her image.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Hollis's grief and guilt: Hollis grapples with the sudden loss of her husband, experiencing a mix of grief, guilt, and a desire to reconnect with her past.
Caroline's resentment and longing: Caroline's resentment towards her mother stems from her grief and her feeling that Hollis prioritized her website over her family. She also longs for a connection with her father.
Brooke's insecurity and need for acceptance: Brooke's insecurities and her desire to be liked lead her to seek validation from others, often at the expense of her own well-being.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Hollis's discovery of Matthew's affair: The revelation of Matthew's affair with Gigi is a major turning point, forcing Hollis to confront the reality of her marriage and her own feelings of betrayal.
Tatum's health scare: Tatum's health scare forces her to confront her own mortality and to reevaluate her priorities, leading to a greater appreciation for her relationships.
Dru-Ann's public scandal: Dru-Ann's public relations crisis forces her to confront her own vulnerability and to reevaluate her priorities, leading to a greater appreciation for her friendships.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Hollis and Tatum's reconnection: Hollis and Tatum's relationship evolves from a strained friendship to a renewed bond, as they confront their past and find common ground in their shared experiences.
Dru-Ann and Brooke's unexpected bond: Dru-Ann and Brooke's relationship evolves from a strained acquaintance to a genuine friendship, as they find common ground in their shared experiences and vulnerabilities.
Hollis and Caroline's strained relationship: Hollis and Caroline's relationship evolves from a strained dynamic to a more understanding one, as they both confront their grief and find a way to connect.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The future of Hollis and Jack: The ending leaves the future of Hollis and Jack's relationship open-ended, allowing readers to speculate about whether they will rekindle their romance.
The long-term impact of the weekend: The long-term impact of the Five-Star Weekend on the women's lives is left somewhat open-ended, allowing readers to imagine how their experiences will shape their future.
The true nature of Matthew's feelings : The true nature of Matthew's feelings for both Hollis and Gigi remains ambiguous, leaving readers to interpret his actions and motivations.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in The Five-Star Weekend?

Dru-Ann's comments on mental health: Dru-Ann's controversial comments about mental health and her subsequent public relations crisis spark debate about the responsibility of public figures and the complexities of mental health awareness.
Hollis's decision to invite Gigi: Hollis's decision to invite Gigi to the Five-Star Weekend, despite not knowing her personally, raises questions about the nature of online friendships and the risks of trusting strangers.
The ethics of the affair : The affair between Gigi and Matthew raises ethical questions about the nature of infidelity and the impact of such actions on the lives of those involved.

The Five-Star Weekend Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Hollis finds a path forward: The ending sees Hollis making a decision to move back to Nantucket, signaling a new chapter in her life and a return to her roots.
Friendships are strengthened : The Five-Star Weekend, despite its challenges, ultimately strengthens the bonds between the women, highlighting the importance of forgiveness and understanding.
Open-ended future : The ending leaves the future of the characters open-ended, suggesting that life is a journey of continuous growth and change, and that the women will continue to navigate their lives with newfound strength and resilience.