Picture yourself savoring a creamy scoop of gelato under the Tuscan sun or chasing myths on a Greek island. That’s the irresistible charm of the Love & Gelato series by Jenna Evans Welch, a young adult contemporary romance collection that whisks readers away to Europe’s most enchanting destinations. With heartfelt stories of love, family, and self-discovery, this series is a passport to adventure and emotion, perfect for anyone craving a light yet meaningful escape.
Each book follows a young woman navigating life’s big questions against vibrant backdrops, blending the thrill of first love with the bittersweet journey of growing up. From Florence’s cobblestone streets to Ireland’s rolling hills, the series captures the magic of travel and the courage it takes to find yourself. Ready to dive into this delightful world? Let’s explore how it all began and why it’s a must-read!
How Love & Gelato Began
Jenna Evans Welch, a Salt Lake City native with a passion for storytelling, drew inspiration for the Love & Gelato series from her own experiences living in Florence, Italy, during her high school years. Her time soaking up Italian culture—think scooters, fountains, and endless gelato—sparked the idea for stories that blend travel with coming-of-age themes. Welch’s debut, Love & Gelato, hit shelves in 2016, quickly becoming a New York Times bestseller thanks to its vivid settings and relatable characters. Her love for immersive, heartfelt narratives shaped a series that feels like a love letter to Europe and youth.
The Heart of Love & Gelato
The series comprises three main books, each a standalone tale connected by themes of romance, family, and discovery. Love & Gelato (2016) follows Lina, a teen grieving her mother’s death, as she spends a summer in Tuscany uncovering her mom’s past through a journal. With the charming Ren by her side, Lina explores Florence’s art-filled streets, finding love and secrets that reshape her world. Love & Luck (2018) takes Addie on a road trip through Ireland, where a broken heart and a quirky guidebook lead to healing and unexpected bonds. Love & Olives (2020) transports Liv to Santorini, Greece, where she reconnects with her estranged father and dives into a documentary about Atlantis, all while navigating trust and first love.
Welch’s writing shines with lush descriptions that make each setting a character in itself—Florence’s gelato shops, Ireland’s emerald cliffs, and Santorini’s sun-drenched shores leap off the page. Themes of grief, identity, and forgiveness weave through the stories, grounding the lighthearted romance with emotional depth. The series’ strength lies in its balance: it’s a breezy summer read with moments that tug at the heart, appealing to teens and adults alike who love stories of growth and wanderlust.
Why Love & Gelato Resonates
The Love & Gelato series has carved a special place in young adult fiction, enchanting readers with its blend of escapism and relatability. Fans praise its ability to transport them to Europe, sparking wanderlust and a craving for gelato, while its focus on family ties and personal growth resonates deeply. The series’ Netflix adaptation of Love & Gelato has introduced it to new audiences, cementing its status as a modern classic. Welch’s knack for crafting authentic teen voices and vivid locales ensures the series remains a go-to for readers seeking both adventure and heart.
- Publication Years: 2016 (Love & Gelato), 2018 (Love & Luck), 2020 (Love & Olives)
- Number of Books: 3 main novels, plus omnibus editions
- Awards: Love & Gelato nominated for Goodreads Choice Award (2016) and Rhode Island Teen Book Award (2018)
Grab Love & Gelato and let Jenna Evans Welch sweep you into a world of romance, discovery, and European charm. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a travel enthusiast, this series is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure!