A beach read can feel like a mini vacation within a vacation. It doesn’t have to be too deep, too dramatic, or even too romantic, but it has to hit you in the feels at the right time. These are the books you can flip through between swims, sunblock reapplications, or while tanning. Bonus points if it’s set somewhere sunny and filled with food, culture, and a lot of art.
If you’re looking for something light yet meaningful, Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch is worth packing in your beach bag. It’s one of those stories that starts out like your typical teen summer drama but gently unravels into something more thoughtful—like your favorite gelato with an unexpected flavorful twist in the middle.
Photo: Shopee
You’ll Want to Read This in One Sitting (Probably with Gelato Nearby)
At its core, Love & Gelato is a story about grief, family, and the unexpected journeys that follow loss, all wrapped in the soft glow of a Tuscan summer. Lina, the main character, lands in Italy with her guard up and her heart heavy. She’s skeptical about this whole “life abroad” thing, especially when it involves a father she’s never met. As she begins reading her late mother’s journal, however, the city starts to reveal itself in ways she never anticipated.
What makes this book such a satisfying read is the way it captures that feeling of being young and confused and halfway between running away and running toward something. The journal entries, the little discoveries tucked between Florence’s cobbled streets, and the surprising sweetness of a new friendship all come together to create something warm and cinematic, like a coming-of-age film you didn’t realize you needed.
It’s a light read, yes, but it also leaves a soft imprint. Love & Gelato manages to balance Italy’s charm and introspection, grief and love, without tipping too far in any one direction. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, curled up at home, or pretending your fan is a sea breeze, it’s the perfect book to keep you company.
Photo: Shopee
If your idea of a perfect summer read includes a European adventure, a bit of soul-searching, and a lot of gelato, then Love & Gelato might be your next favorite. You can even grab a copy on Shopee for your next weekend escape.
What’s your go-to trope for a beach read—heartfelt, hilarious, or heavy on the romance? Let us know in the comments!
READ MORE: This ₱120 Clip-On Book Light Is a Must-Have for Late-Night Readers
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links. The actual color, appearance, size, and shape of the item might be slightly different from the ones shown in the pictures.
Do you have a story for the WhenInManila.com Team? Email us at story.wheninmanila@gmail.com or send us a direct message at WhenInManila.com Facebook Page. Interact with the team and join the WhenInManila.com Community at WIM Squad! We also share our stories on Viber, join us!
