The Venice Hotel book club questions

The Venice Hotel is a captivating novel by acclaimed author Tess Woods, set against the enchanting backdrop of Venice during the twelve days of Christmas. The story intertwines the lives of four diverse women – Signora Loretta Bianchi, a renowned cook torn between passion and loyalty; Sophie, a food writer who uncovers more than recipes; Elena, a law graduate, desperate to escape her marriage; and Gayle, a grandmother whose dream holiday turns perilous.

With themes of love, betrayal, and the healing power of female connection, it’s the perfect book club pick for fans of Nine Perfect Strangers and The White Lotus.

Discussion points and questions

• The Venice Hotel sounds like a dream destination, but for which characters does it become more of a nightmare?
• ‘Loretta needs to work as much as she needs to breathe.’ How does her work help and hinder her in life?
• Do you understand why Sophie is so cautious about risking her heart on love?
• In what ways does faith provide strength to the characters in the novel, and in what ways does it create obstacles?
• Gayle believes Mike is ‘smarter’ than her, which is part of the reason she has been finding it troubling to question his opinions lately. Do you agree with her assessment?
• In what ways is Elena a victim, and in what ways is she a heroine?
• ‘A parent will do anything for their child.’ Discuss.
• Do you agree with Sophie that ‘Everything about Venice is magical’?
• ‘What is marriage for if not for rescuing each other?’ How does this apply to the relationships in The Venice Hotel?
• Discuss the significance of food in the novel.
• Venice is a place many of the characters are escaping to, but it is suffering too. What did you learn about the environmental issues facing Venice presently?
• Have you ever had holiday plans turned upside down?

Want to start reading? Read a snippet here.