Love & Olives
4.2

In Jenna Evans Welch's 'Love & Olives,' readers are swept away to the sun-drenched shores of Greece in this enchanting tale of self-discovery, love, and the bonds of family. Olive, or Liv, finds herself reluctantly spending the summer in Santorini with her estranged father, who is obsessed with a lost Atlantean treasure. As Liv navigates the rocky terrain of her own emotions, she encounters Theo, a charming boy who helps her uncover the mysteries of her past while searching for long-lost truths. Through Liv's journey, Welch beautifully weaves themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and the courage to embrace uncertainties, crafting a poignant narrative that resonates with the heart. This novel explores the complexities of familial relationships and youthful romance against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery, captivating readers with its warmth and depth.

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About The Love & Gelato Series

The Love & Gelato series by Jenna Evans Welch is a young adult trilogy that blends romance, travel, and self-discovery against picturesque European backdrops. Each book follows a different teen protagonist navigating personal challenges and uncovering family secrets while exploring new cultures. In Love & Gelato, Lina travels to Florence, Italy, to fulfill her late mother's wish, discovering love and her mother's past through a journal. Love & Luck centers on Addie, who embarks on a road trip across Ireland, mending her relationship with her brother and healing from heartbreak. Love & Olives follows Liv to Santorini, Greece, where she reconnects with her estranged father and delves into the mystery of Atlantis. The series captures the essence of youthful exploration, emotional growth, and the transformative power of travel.

About Jenna Evans Welch

Jenna Evans Welch is a contemporary American author known for her engaging young adult novels that exquisitely blend romance, travel, and self-discovery. Born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, Welch was surrounded by stories from an early age, encouraged by her father, New York Times bestselling author Richard Paul Evans. Her writing journey catapulted with the success of her debut novel, 'Love & Gelato', which captured the hearts of readers with its picturesque setting in Italy and heartfelt narrative. The book prompted two sequels, 'Love & Luck' and 'Love & Olives', each transporting readers to captivating locales while exploring themes of familial bonds and personal growth. Welch's work has significantly impacted the young adult literary scene, celebrated for its vibrant characters and emotional depth that resonates with readers worldwide. Her storytelling not only entices a love of travel in her audience but also encourages introspection and the value of following one's heart.

Other Books by Jenna Evans Welch

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Love & Gelato

by Jenna Evans Welch

Series: The Love & Gelato (#1)

4.2

In Jenna Evans Welch's enchanting novel "Love & Gelato," readers are whisked away to the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy, where sixteen-year-old Lina is spending her summer at her late mother's insistence. As she navigates cultural wonders and uncovers hidden family secrets, Lina's adventures are both a physical journey and a touching exploration of identity and belonging. At the heart of the narrative is a romantic and emotional voyage of discovery, driven by the rich backdrop of Italian art and history. With a perfect blend of warmth, humor, and romance, this novel captures the bittersweet realities of love and loss, ultimately highlighting the transformative power of embracing a new beginning. Engaging and heartwarming, "Love & Gelato" enchants readers with its vivid settings and relatable characters, reminding us that sometimes the best journeys lead us to unexpected places within ourselves.

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Love & Luck

by Jenna Evans Welch

Series: The Love & Gelato (#2)

4.2

In 'Love & Luck,' Jenna Evans Welch takes readers on a heartfelt and whimsical journey across the rolling hills of Ireland. The story follows Addie, who finds herself on a family trip with her brother Ian, nursing a bruised heart and carrying a secret that she feels is too heavy to share. As the siblings set off on a road trip guided by an unconventional travel guide called 'Ireland for the Heartbroken,' they embark on an adventure filled with unexpected friendships, self-discovery, and healing. The book gracefully explores themes of forgiveness, sibling bonds, and the courage it takes to confront one's fears, all wrapped in a charming narrative that captures the magic of travel and the power of letting go. Welch's vivid descriptions of the emerald landscape and quirky characters make this novel not just a story of love and luck, but a touching voyage into the depths of emotional resilience and personal growth.

Similar Books

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Just One Day

by Gayle Forman

Series: Just One Day (#1)

4.2

Just One Day by Gayle Forman is an engaging coming-of-age novel that explores the transformative power of travel, love, and self-discovery. The story follows Allyson 'Lulu' Healey, a recent high school graduate, whose life takes an unexpected turn during a European summer tour. After a chance encounter with a charismatic Dutch actor, Willem, she embarks on a spontaneous adventure that leads her to question everything she thought she wanted. The narrative unfolds over a day in Paris that challenges Lulu to confront the constraints of her safe and predictable life. Forman's writing elegantly captures the exhilaration and uncertainty of stepping outside one's comfort zone, making this a compelling read about identity, choices, and the serendipity of life’s unexpected moments. The book resonates with anyone who has ever been at a crossroads, seeking to redefine themselves through courage and exploration.

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The Unexpected Everything

by Morgan Matson

4.2

In 'The Unexpected Everything' by Morgan Matson, readers are drawn into the life of Andie Walker, a meticulous planner whose summer is thrown into chaos when her father's political scandal sidelines her plans. Opting for spontaneity, Andie takes a dog-walking job, leading to unexpected friendships, self-discovery, and a charming romance with the enigmatic Clark. The novel thoroughly explores themes of family dynamics, the unpredictability of life, and the beauty of embracing change. Matson's engaging storytelling and layered characters make the narrative both relatable and captivating. Her exploration of personal growth and relationships amidst upheaval resonates well with young adult readers, offering both entertainment and introspection.

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Just Listen

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4.7

In Sarah Dessen's 'Just Listen,' we delve into the life of Annabel Green, a girl who seemingly has it all but is silently battling demons beneath her perfect exterior. The novel intricately weaves themes of family dynamics, the importance of communication, and the power of self-acceptance. As Annabel navigates betrayal, friendships, and unexpected connections, readers are drawn into a poignant tale of resilience and growth. Dessen's emotive storytelling and realistic character development make 'Just Listen' a compelling and relatable read for young adults and beyond.

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My Life Next Door

by Huntley Fitzpatrick

Series: Stony Bay (#1)

4.2

Huntley Fitzpatrick's 'My Life Next Door' is a captivating young adult romance that delves into themes of family dynamics, love, and self-discovery. The story follows Samantha Reed, a girl from a controlled and structured environment, whose fascination with the chaotic and loving Garrett family next door leads to a transformative summer romance with Jase Garrett. Fitzpatrick expertly contrasts Samantha's highly regimented life with that of the warm, unpredictable Garretts, allowing readers to explore the nuances of familial expectations and personal freedom. Through heartfelt and relatable characters, the novel emphasizes the importance of finding one's own path and embracing love and spontaneity along the way.