Cocktails Before Midnight

Title: Cocktails Before Midnight

Author: Tanya E Williams

Genre: Historical

Series: Hotel Hamilton Series book 3

Publisher: Rippling Effects

Date Published: 2024

Book Length: 282

Format: E Book provided by the author in return for an honest review

Star Rating: 5**** I loved it and highly recommend

About Book: Clara and Louisa Wilson, maids at the illustrious hotel, are swept up in the thrill of The Hamilton’s first holiday season. Louisa, buoyed by the excitement of her theatrical debut, sets her sights on Hollywood and befriending a director staying at the hotel. Meanwhile, Clara, newly promoted to a prestigious eighth-floor position, navigates the complexities of her role while a blossoming romance stirs her heart.But the joy of the season starts to fade as the sisters find themselves ensnared in a sinister ploy that threatens all they hold dear. Caught in the crosshairs of Louisa’s Hollywood ambitions, Clara’s budding romance, and with their very livelihoods at stake, they must confront a formidable challenge that could cost them everything. Will they find the strength to protect what matters most, or will they lose it all?

My Thoughts: Cocktails Before Midnight by Tanya E. Williams is part of the charming Hotel Hamilton series, but rest assured, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. This is the first book I’ve read by Williams, and I was quickly captivated by her storytelling. The novel unfolds through alternating perspectives of two sisters, Clara and Louisa. While these two women couldn’t be more different in temperament and outlook, their bond is deep and authentic—a testament to Williams' ability to craft believable, relatable characters.

The era in which the story is set comes vividly to life through Williams' descriptive prose. Every detail of the time period feels carefully considered, immersing the reader in a world where traditions and societal expectations influence every interaction. Yet, there’s a warmth throughout the story—a feel-good factor that runs deeper than nostalgia. The camaraderie between the employees at the Hamilton Hotel and the sisterly connection between Clara and Louisa creates a heart warming undercurrent that pulls you in and makes you care about their journey.

Williams’ ability to balance the intimate dynamics of family relationships with the historical richness of the era is impressive. The dialogue flows naturally, and the vivid descriptions transport you to the golden age of grand hotels, making you feel like you’re a guest at the Hamilton yourself.

In Conclusion, if you're in the mood for a novel that offers both emotional depth and the comfort of a cosy, heartwarming read, Cocktails Before Midnight is the perfect choice. Williams has woven a story that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and family sagas alike, leaving you invested in the lives of her characters long after the final page. Whether you're already familiar with the Hotel Hamilton series or staring out anew for the first time like I did, this book promises a delightful escape into a bygone era. You won't want to put it down—and after finishing, you may find yourself eager to pick up another of Williams’ books.