50 pages • 1 hour read
Love & Gelato
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
Florence, Italy • Contemporary
2016
Simon Pulse
YA
13-18 years
640L
Super Short Summary
Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch narrates the story of 16-year-old Lina Emerson, who, after her mother's death, fulfills her wish by spending the summer in Florence with a father she never knew. While uncovering her mother's past through an old journal, Lina navigates her own romantic feelings between two boys, leading to self-discovery and healing. The novel includes references to an abusive professor-student relationship and mentions rape in Roman mythology.
Romantic
Bittersweet
Adventurous
Emotional
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
165,766 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch has been praised for its charming and heartwarming storyline, with readers enjoying the vivid Italian setting and emotional depth. However, some found the plot predictable and wished for more character development. Overall, it is appreciated for its light-hearted and endearing nature, making it a pleasant escape.
Who Should Read Love & Gelato?
Fans of Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch are likely young adult readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories set abroad. Anyone charmed by the romantic and self-discovery journeys in Stephanie Perkins’ Anna and the French Kiss or Jenny Han’s To All the Boys I've Loved Before will find this book appealing.
165,766 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Lorenzo (“Ren”) Ferrara
Lorenzo (“Ren”) Ferrara
An Italian American student at the American International School of Florence, whose depth of caring and support help Lina navigate her grief and discover the difference between true love and passion.
Howard Mercer
Howard Mercer
A former history professor and current cemetery caretaker in Florence, who welcomes Lina into his life and provides unwavering support, revealing virtues of loyalty and kindness.
Hadley Emerson
Hadley Emerson
Lina's mother, whose presence in the novel is largely through her journal entries, detailing her artistic journey in Florence and imparting valuable life lessons to her daughter.
Love & Gelato is set in the scenic landscape of Tuscany, Italy, where lush countryside and historic cities provide a picturesque backdrop for the story.
Jenna Evans Welch's Love & Gelato was inspired by her own experiences living in Florence, where she learned to appreciate the local culture and traditions.
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The book explores themes of self-discovery and the emotional bonds of family, woven into a journey that combines travel and youthful adventure.
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400
Novel • Fiction
Florence, Italy • Contemporary
2016
Simon Pulse
YA
13-18 years
640L
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