Review of "Welcome to the Honey B&B" by Melody Carlson
When I first picked up Welcome to the Honey B&B, I expected a charming escape. Instead, what I found was a deeply emotional journey that ricocheted through my heart like a bee flitting from flower to flower. Melody Carlson has a gift for weaving heartfelt stories, but in this book, she tackles the complex subject of dementia with a rare blend of empathy and humor. This delicate balance had me reflecting not just on the characters but on life’s fragility itself.
At the center of the story is Honey, a devoted wife navigating the turbulent waters of her husband CT’s frontal temporal dementia. Watching her care for CT, who once brimmed with life—his love for bees, honey, and peanut butter sandwiches a testament to his vibrant spirit—reminded me of the weight of love and loss. Carlson captures this struggle beautifully, allowing readers to feel Honey’s heartbreak and resilience as she clings to the memories of the man she married while learning to cope with the change.
The plot thickens with Jewell, Honey’s daughter, who returns to Oregon, ostensibly to support her aging parents but really to protect her 13-year-old daughter, Cooper, from the emotional upheaval caused by the move. Here, the struggles of a teenage girl clash against the backdrop of family dynamics and the challenges of dementia. I found myself empathizing profoundly with Cooper—her moodiness is relatable, capturing the essence of adolescence while showing unexpected strength as she adjusts to life in Oregon and connects with her grandfather’s bees. Watching her grow through the narrative was a touching experience, and I often found myself cheering her on through the pages.
Carlson’s writing style is engaging and fluid, effortlessly weaving humor into poignant moments. The pacing felt natural, allowing space for reflection while keeping me invested in the unfolding drama of daily life alongside these richly drawn characters. There were moments that truly struck me—like when Honey, overwhelmed yet determined, reflects on the little blessings that crop up amid the chaos. It’s a reminder that even in dark times, there’s light to be found through grace, faith, and connection.
One memorable quote that lingered with me was about the bees: “Sometimes the smallest creatures bring the sweetest gifts.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the essence of the book. The bees symbolize not only resilience but also the sweetness of life, even when it feels overwhelming.
What makes Welcome to the Honey B&B particularly special is its authenticity. Long after I turned the last page, I found myself contemplating the characters and their journeys. They have become part of my thoughts—inspiring me to appreciate the simple joys, to show grace under pressure, and to seek the bright side when faced with challenges.
For anyone who has ever grappled with loss or change in their families, this book is a must-read. It resonates with anyone navigating the complexities of aging, love, or parenthood while imparting lessons in hope and community. In a world where we often shy away from discussing difficult subjects like dementia, Carlson provides a compassionate space where healing and humor coexist.
Welcome to the Honey B&B is truly a heartfelt exploration of life’s bittersweet nature, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a story that stays with you. Grab your tissues—you’ll need them! Thank you to Revell Books and the author for this advance copy; it was a reading experience I won’t soon forget.
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