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Suitcase Sisters #2
Gelato at the Villa
Chi trova un amico trova un tesoro.
"Whoever finds a friend finds a treasure ."
Italian saying
Grace and Claire have formed a close friendship over their love of reading. After many years and many books that provided armchair adventures, the time has come for them to go somewhere instead of only dreaming of someday.
Traveling to Venice, Florence, and Bellagio, the Suitcase Sisters find themselves immersed in the magnificent works of art, scrumptious gelato flavors, and endless pasta variations of Italy. And they discover a vulnerability to disclose their struggles in ways they never did at home. As Grace experiences a newfound freedom and confidence in who she is, Claire wrestles with painful memories of her teen years.
A special dinner party brings unexpected revelations about faith and God's nearness. Then a life-changing moment on the shores of Lake Lugano causes Grace and Claire to discover they are not just tourists but pilgrims on a path to becoming all God created them to be.
Robin Jones Gunn whisks you away to experience the incredible culture of Northern Italy in this inspiring, faith-based contemporary fiction with themes of European travel, midlife adventures, and lifelong friendships, making this a perfect book club selection.
"Whoever finds a friend finds a treasure ."
Italian saying
Grace and Claire have formed a close friendship over their love of reading. After many years and many books that provided armchair adventures, the time has come for them to go somewhere instead of only dreaming of someday.
Traveling to Venice, Florence, and Bellagio, the Suitcase Sisters find themselves immersed in the magnificent works of art, scrumptious gelato flavors, and endless pasta variations of Italy. And they discover a vulnerability to disclose their struggles in ways they never did at home. As Grace experiences a newfound freedom and confidence in who she is, Claire wrestles with painful memories of her teen years.
A special dinner party brings unexpected revelations about faith and God's nearness. Then a life-changing moment on the shores of Lake Lugano causes Grace and Claire to discover they are not just tourists but pilgrims on a path to becoming all God created them to be.
Robin Jones Gunn whisks you away to experience the incredible culture of Northern Italy in this inspiring, faith-based contemporary fiction with themes of European travel, midlife adventures, and lifelong friendships, making this a perfect book club selection.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2025
86 people are currently reading
5414 people want to read
About the author
Robin Jones Gunn
162 books2,630 followersROBIN JONES GUNN has written more than 100 books with over 6.5 million copies sold worldwide. Her Father Christmas books have been made into three Hallmark Christmas movies. The timeless Christy Miller series now continues in Christy & Todd: The College Years, Married Years, Baby Years, and the Haven Maker series. Robin's novels and non-fiction works include Before Your Tween Daughter Becomes a Woman, Victim of Grace, Praying for Your Future Husband, and Before You Meet Your Future Husband co-authored with Tricia Goyer. Her books have received multiple awards and are a favorite with book clubs and study groups. Many of Robin's books are in eBook, audiobook, large print, and foreign editions. Robin does a weekly Podcast called "Women Worth Knowing" with Cheryl Brodersen. Robin and her husband have a grown son and daughter and live in California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
August 18, 2025
Book Review: Gelato at the Villa - Robin Jones Gunn
5 Stars - A Favorite Book of 2025
Blog Post with quote graphics: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Have you ever had a friend that you were praying would return to the Lord after hurt from the past? Have you been the friend that turned back to the Lord after His constant pursuit? This book is one you don't want to miss.
This book was SO impactful for me. I laughed. I cried. I can't recommend it enough!
We need more friendship stories in books and I loved this one! In this book, we follow Grace and Claire. Told from Grace's POV, we see our best friends travel to Italy, making stops in Venice, Florence and Bellagio. The girls enjoy art, cooking, AMAZING food, gelato (of course!), museums and the LORD truly works on this trip. I also LOVED the people they met along the way and all the travel details.
I have a full YouTube reading vlog coming out on August 25th with ALL the tears and thoughts, but all I can say is this book is one I needed!
Seeing Grace's POV praying for her friend who had been running from the Lord for so long after being hurt by people in the church years ago was powerful. She was patient with Claire. She honored her requests. She let the Lord lead her in the conversations, even when she didn't know what to say. Grace also encountered the Lord's peace when things aren't going great at her job.
Yes, this book brings Italy to life and makes you really want some good Italian food and Gelato, but it also had the Lord front and center in their trip and by the end, we really see forgiveness, a prodigal daughter moment and good friendship on display. This is how you tell a beautiful, in depth story under 300 pages! :)
The Lord is always pursuing us. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. See my blog post for my favorite quotes as well in the graphics!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours, Revell and Robin Jones Gunn for a complimentary copy of this book to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*trigger warning for mentions of past abuse as a child but not graphically detailed.
5 Stars - A Favorite Book of 2025
Blog Post with quote graphics: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Have you ever had a friend that you were praying would return to the Lord after hurt from the past? Have you been the friend that turned back to the Lord after His constant pursuit? This book is one you don't want to miss.
This book was SO impactful for me. I laughed. I cried. I can't recommend it enough!
We need more friendship stories in books and I loved this one! In this book, we follow Grace and Claire. Told from Grace's POV, we see our best friends travel to Italy, making stops in Venice, Florence and Bellagio. The girls enjoy art, cooking, AMAZING food, gelato (of course!), museums and the LORD truly works on this trip. I also LOVED the people they met along the way and all the travel details.
I have a full YouTube reading vlog coming out on August 25th with ALL the tears and thoughts, but all I can say is this book is one I needed!
Seeing Grace's POV praying for her friend who had been running from the Lord for so long after being hurt by people in the church years ago was powerful. She was patient with Claire. She honored her requests. She let the Lord lead her in the conversations, even when she didn't know what to say. Grace also encountered the Lord's peace when things aren't going great at her job.
Yes, this book brings Italy to life and makes you really want some good Italian food and Gelato, but it also had the Lord front and center in their trip and by the end, we really see forgiveness, a prodigal daughter moment and good friendship on display. This is how you tell a beautiful, in depth story under 300 pages! :)
The Lord is always pursuing us. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. See my blog post for my favorite quotes as well in the graphics!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours, Revell and Robin Jones Gunn for a complimentary copy of this book to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*trigger warning for mentions of past abuse as a child but not graphically detailed.
October 9, 2025
What an awesome series. I also loved Tea with Elephants, the first in the series. These are stand alone books. The title of the series sums it up well, The Suitcase Sisters. This story is about two best friends, Grace and Claire. They both share a love of reading. They go to Italy together and have marvelous experiences. This author creates wonderfully vivid scenes and lovely dialogue. I also loved the faith element. Outstanding narration. Highly recommend, if you’re in the mood for something light and heartwarming.
August 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐
I was thankful for the opportunity to join the Suitcase Sisters again on their trip. I reminisced about great vacations I’ve had in Italy and was left with a craving for Italian food for dinner.
I appreciated Gunn’s spotlight on friendship, faith, and healing and was most interested in the dynamics between two friends with dissimilar spiritual relationships. While disappointed that this was so different from Tea With Elephants, I could appreciate the highlighting of friendships that changed as a result of travel.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I was thankful for the opportunity to join the Suitcase Sisters again on their trip. I reminisced about great vacations I’ve had in Italy and was left with a craving for Italian food for dinner.
I appreciated Gunn’s spotlight on friendship, faith, and healing and was most interested in the dynamics between two friends with dissimilar spiritual relationships. While disappointed that this was so different from Tea With Elephants, I could appreciate the highlighting of friendships that changed as a result of travel.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 21, 2025
Italy has been a dream for me since I was teen who found opera and art. This book took me on that pilgrimage with its pages filled with food, friendship, and faith. It is difficult to describe the beauty spoken in the story. Real truths of living the Christian life were displayed. The visits to churches were most impactful to me as the frescos helped both characters to hear from the Lord. Jesus is amazing like that to keep pursuing us despite our hurts and hangups. I also enjoyed all the side characters, their stories, and how they ministered to both Grace and Claire. This was delightful and brought joy to my soul.
August 28, 2025
"𝑺𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒕𝒉, 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆. 𝑺𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕. 𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒘𝒆 𝒎𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔."
I adore the way Robin Jones Gunn describes the kaleidoscope of new experiences in her traveling books—especially in the Suitcase Sisters series. The descriptive scenes of architecture and landscapes positively leap off the pages, while the tastes and smells are divine and make me feel as though I’m right there enjoying them with the characters! I’m not much of one for traveling, but her writing makes me want to embark on my own journey to discover the hidden beauties the world holds!
𝚂𝚒𝚖𝚙𝚕𝚎 𝚓𝚘𝚢𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚢.
I found myself relating so much to Grace’s struggles to let loose on her trip. I too find it much too easy to get caught up in worrying what others—complete strangers I’ll never see again—think of me rather than letting go of my concerns and just enjoying myself. It was healing to watch Grace learn to overcome her struggles, face her fears, and experience the freedom that comes from letting loose.
“𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝙶𝚘𝚍 𝚑𝚊𝚜 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚐𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚗 𝚞𝚜 𝚊 𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚛𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚏𝚎𝚊𝚛 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚙𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚍 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍.”
The dynamic between Grace and Claire was so heartwarming, while also being quite relatable with the way they didn’t always get along perfectly. I think it’s very natural for friends to have off moments—especially when spending so much time in each other’s company—so I really appreciated the way Robin Jones Gunn portrayed their friendship ♥️ The deep moments between the two friends were incredibly touching and beautiful! I really enjoyed watching Claire’s story play out as she found her way back into the loving embrace of her Lord and Savior.
𝙰 𝚏𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚢 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚝𝚛𝚞𝚎 𝚝𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚎.
There were a few moments in this story that felt a bit rushed, and other times when I felt not quite so much time was needed in certain scenes. This book was definitely different from Tea With Elephants in these aspects, because I felt book 1 was done perfectly. Overall, I really enjoyed this story—just not as much as I might have, had it been written a bit differently.
Quotes:
“𝚆𝚎 𝚍𝚒𝚜𝚌𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚊 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚒𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚎𝚎𝚔 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚌𝚞𝚛𝚒𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚢-𝚜𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚜𝚏𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚏𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎. 𝙰 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚐𝚛𝚒𝚖 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚎𝚎𝚔 𝚊 𝚜𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚕-𝚜𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚜𝚏𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚏𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎. 𝙲𝚕𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚝𝚛𝚒𝚙 𝚊𝚜 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚜. 𝚆𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚑𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚊𝚜 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚐𝚛𝚒𝚖𝚜.”
𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝙶𝚘𝚍. 𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝙶𝚘𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚘𝚘 𝚖𝚞𝚌𝚑 𝚘𝚏 𝚊 ... 𝚠𝚎𝚕𝚕, 𝚌𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎.
𝙼𝚊𝚢𝚋𝚎 𝚑𝚞𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗'𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛. 𝙼𝚊𝚢𝚋𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚞𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚝.
𝙿𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚝𝚞𝚍𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚐𝚗𝚒𝚣𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚕𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚞𝚊𝚐𝚎.
𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚞𝚜 𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚘𝚗 𝚊 𝚓𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚢. 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚒𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚟𝚊𝚕𝚞𝚎. 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚕 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚊𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚢 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝙵𝚊𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛.
I adore the way Robin Jones Gunn describes the kaleidoscope of new experiences in her traveling books—especially in the Suitcase Sisters series. The descriptive scenes of architecture and landscapes positively leap off the pages, while the tastes and smells are divine and make me feel as though I’m right there enjoying them with the characters! I’m not much of one for traveling, but her writing makes me want to embark on my own journey to discover the hidden beauties the world holds!
𝚂𝚒𝚖𝚙𝚕𝚎 𝚓𝚘𝚢𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚢.
I found myself relating so much to Grace’s struggles to let loose on her trip. I too find it much too easy to get caught up in worrying what others—complete strangers I’ll never see again—think of me rather than letting go of my concerns and just enjoying myself. It was healing to watch Grace learn to overcome her struggles, face her fears, and experience the freedom that comes from letting loose.
“𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝙶𝚘𝚍 𝚑𝚊𝚜 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚐𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚗 𝚞𝚜 𝚊 𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚛𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚏𝚎𝚊𝚛 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚙𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚍 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍.”
The dynamic between Grace and Claire was so heartwarming, while also being quite relatable with the way they didn’t always get along perfectly. I think it’s very natural for friends to have off moments—especially when spending so much time in each other’s company—so I really appreciated the way Robin Jones Gunn portrayed their friendship ♥️ The deep moments between the two friends were incredibly touching and beautiful! I really enjoyed watching Claire’s story play out as she found her way back into the loving embrace of her Lord and Savior.
𝙰 𝚏𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚢 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚝𝚛𝚞𝚎 𝚝𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚎.
There were a few moments in this story that felt a bit rushed, and other times when I felt not quite so much time was needed in certain scenes. This book was definitely different from Tea With Elephants in these aspects, because I felt book 1 was done perfectly. Overall, I really enjoyed this story—just not as much as I might have, had it been written a bit differently.
Quotes:
“𝚆𝚎 𝚍𝚒𝚜𝚌𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚊 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚒𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚎𝚎𝚔 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚌𝚞𝚛𝚒𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚢-𝚜𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚜𝚏𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚏𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎. 𝙰 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚐𝚛𝚒𝚖 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚎𝚎𝚔 𝚊 𝚜𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚕-𝚜𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚜𝚏𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚏𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎. 𝙲𝚕𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚝𝚛𝚒𝚙 𝚊𝚜 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚜. 𝚆𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚑𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚊𝚜 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚐𝚛𝚒𝚖𝚜.”
𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝙶𝚘𝚍. 𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝙶𝚘𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚘𝚘 𝚖𝚞𝚌𝚑 𝚘𝚏 𝚊 ... 𝚠𝚎𝚕𝚕, 𝚌𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎.
𝙼𝚊𝚢𝚋𝚎 𝚑𝚞𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗'𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛. 𝙼𝚊𝚢𝚋𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚞𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚝.
𝙿𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚝𝚞𝚍𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚐𝚗𝚒𝚣𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚕𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚞𝚊𝚐𝚎.
𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚞𝚜 𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚘𝚗 𝚊 𝚓𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚢. 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚒𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚟𝚊𝚕𝚞𝚎. 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚕 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚊𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚢 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝙵𝚊𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛.
September 29, 2025
Just like in the first book in the Suitcase Sisters series, Robin Jones Gunn whisks the travel-hungry reader to another place with a pair of friends who have a lot of discovery to make in a new destination and in their hearts.
This time, friends Grace and Claire take a fun vacation to one of a kind Italy, and oh my goodness, the way the author brought in the sites, smells, sounds, and picturesque beauty of Italy was so delightful and breathtaking to read, especially if you are fascinated and interested in travel to Italy, but lack the resources to vacation right now. While there, the women learn more about each other and themselves and realize that they have been letting fear, bitterness, and the unknown hold them back from God's best for their lives. What ensues is a gorgeous tale of renwed faith, heartfelt transformation, and determination to live out God's adventure for them everyday. Truly so good, convicting, and hope giving, and the writing style perfectly captured the gorgeous Italian culture.
This time, friends Grace and Claire take a fun vacation to one of a kind Italy, and oh my goodness, the way the author brought in the sites, smells, sounds, and picturesque beauty of Italy was so delightful and breathtaking to read, especially if you are fascinated and interested in travel to Italy, but lack the resources to vacation right now. While there, the women learn more about each other and themselves and realize that they have been letting fear, bitterness, and the unknown hold them back from God's best for their lives. What ensues is a gorgeous tale of renwed faith, heartfelt transformation, and determination to live out God's adventure for them everyday. Truly so good, convicting, and hope giving, and the writing style perfectly captured the gorgeous Italian culture.
September 2, 2025
This is an extraordinary book! Oh my goodness. I laughed and cried. Each page took me on a new adventure through Italy.
The characters are written brilliantly! I felt as if I were on the trip with them, experiencing everything through Claire and Grace's eyes. Their friendship is amazing and true. Paulina is awesome! She knows the true meaning of hospitality. Amelia, Gio, and Rosie are wonderful too!
I really liked all of the spiritual aspects in the book. My favorite quote is: "He's pursuing you. You gave your life to Him long ago. You told me you meant it. I know something happened that hurt you and pushed you away. But He's still in you and with you and you're still His first love...Claire, He wants you back." I admired Grace and the others for not pushing their faith on Claire. Instead, they loved her and modeled Christ's love to her.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are written brilliantly! I felt as if I were on the trip with them, experiencing everything through Claire and Grace's eyes. Their friendship is amazing and true. Paulina is awesome! She knows the true meaning of hospitality. Amelia, Gio, and Rosie are wonderful too!
I really liked all of the spiritual aspects in the book. My favorite quote is: "He's pursuing you. You gave your life to Him long ago. You told me you meant it. I know something happened that hurt you and pushed you away. But He's still in you and with you and you're still His first love...Claire, He wants you back." I admired Grace and the others for not pushing their faith on Claire. Instead, they loved her and modeled Christ's love to her.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 26, 2025
With so many flavors mentioned it was hard to decide which to make for our book club gathering but I had never heard of pear gelato before so that won out. My ice cream tumbler wasn't frozen enough to do the job but it made a decent pear milkshake 🙃 will have to do a doover soon.
I felt like the ending, where the big character development is, was too rushed and then over. I would have liked to get to know the characters more. I did feel like I was there traveling with Grace & Claire though as the setting and sensory descriptions are very thorough.
I felt like the ending, where the big character development is, was too rushed and then over. I would have liked to get to know the characters more. I did feel like I was there traveling with Grace & Claire though as the setting and sensory descriptions are very thorough.
September 13, 2025
This book made me hungry! Seriously don’t read it if you are hungry cause it’ll make it so much worse! But in all seriousness, I love this story.
The low stakes and vivid details of Italy made me feel as though I was walking through Venice right beside Grace and Claire. I love how the author transports you to Italy and allows you to experience it with all of your senses.
I loved Grace and Claire’s sweet friendship and the way that they walked through some hard things together. It truly touched my heart and I savored this book as much as the women savored their gelato. I’m really looking forward to where the suitcase sisters end up next!!
The low stakes and vivid details of Italy made me feel as though I was walking through Venice right beside Grace and Claire. I love how the author transports you to Italy and allows you to experience it with all of your senses.
I loved Grace and Claire’s sweet friendship and the way that they walked through some hard things together. It truly touched my heart and I savored this book as much as the women savored their gelato. I’m really looking forward to where the suitcase sisters end up next!!
October 7, 2025
Loved the food descriptions and the faith journey
December 17, 2025
Great descriptions of the food and sights!
August 31, 2025
Reading this was like a warm hug from an old friend.🩵 It’s been twenty years since I read my first Robin Jones Gunn novel and once again, the Lord used Gunn’s rich storytelling to communicate His heart and remind of His truth. Read this in an afternoon; couldn’t put it down!
October 28, 2025
Well, I want to go to Italy now. And stay in a villa. And take cooking classes and ride a Vespa. And of course, eat gelato.
But what RJG always makes me want to do is see and know God more. I cried through the ending of this book. So beautiful. This book is the story of 2 friends going to Italy but it’s really a romance—of a Hero who never stops pursuing the one He loves.
But what RJG always makes me want to do is see and know God more. I cried through the ending of this book. So beautiful. This book is the story of 2 friends going to Italy but it’s really a romance—of a Hero who never stops pursuing the one He loves.
August 31, 2025
Really enjoyed this novel of friendship and faith set in Italy.
September 30, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, even though I did find some parts a little slow. I love all of the descriptions of Italy- the sights, the food! It really makes me want to take a trip!
August 7, 2025
I don’t know when the last time was I read a book that so relaxed me. I tend to like mystery and suspense but I needed a light book and this was perfect.
Two friends on a European adventure that changes their lives?! Yes please!!!! This story was beautiful. I loved how Grace and Claire discovered beauty and a new pace to life, all while letting God change and heal them. I don’t know what else to say.
It’s beautiful and I would recommend this book to anyone wanting something beautiful and meaningful.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book. All options are my own and a favorable review was not required.
Two friends on a European adventure that changes their lives?! Yes please!!!! This story was beautiful. I loved how Grace and Claire discovered beauty and a new pace to life, all while letting God change and heal them. I don’t know what else to say.
It’s beautiful and I would recommend this book to anyone wanting something beautiful and meaningful.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book. All options are my own and a favorable review was not required.
September 29, 2025
I love this series by Robin Jones Gunn. No romance but plenty of heart and travel adventures. I call this series "escape" books. The kind of books you want to read for the sheer enjoyment of getting to travel to places in the eyes of the characters.
I really enjoyed this adventure with two friends through Italy. I loved the setting and especially the yummy Gelato. I will say their holidays are pretty much picture perfect and I wish I could experience some of what they have.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book to read. All thoughts are my own.
I really enjoyed this adventure with two friends through Italy. I loved the setting and especially the yummy Gelato. I will say their holidays are pretty much picture perfect and I wish I could experience some of what they have.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book to read. All thoughts are my own.
October 3, 2025
A delightful story about friendship, Italy, and becoming all God has made you to be. Endearing characters and a beautiful and intriguing setting kept me engaged.
July 20, 2025
I finished this book three days ago, but it had such a profound impact on me I have continued to let it wash over me and fill me. Not wanting to let it go.
Gelato at the Villa by Robin Jones Gunn is a profound and deeply satisfying look at friendship and what it means to stand back and let God be God. In addition, it is a wonderful trip through Italy that was so vivid I thought I was there. From Venice to Tuscany, you will want to grab your best friend and book a trip to fly away on a Suitcase Sister adventure of your own.
The humour had me laughing out loud. And the food! Oh, my word! I wanted to learn how to cook like an Italian after reading this. My anniversary is coming up and I will definitely be looking for some Italian food, followed by a nice scoop of gelato.
Everything about this book, from the wise words of Paulina, Amelia, Gio, and others, filled my soul up. And the end made me cry both happy and sad tears. Like I said, I had to let this one wash over me for a few days. It will be a long time before I let go.
Kudos to Robin Jones Gunn. This was brilliant. I look forward to the next adventure!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via NetGalley for my honest opinion.
Gelato at the Villa by Robin Jones Gunn is a profound and deeply satisfying look at friendship and what it means to stand back and let God be God. In addition, it is a wonderful trip through Italy that was so vivid I thought I was there. From Venice to Tuscany, you will want to grab your best friend and book a trip to fly away on a Suitcase Sister adventure of your own.
The humour had me laughing out loud. And the food! Oh, my word! I wanted to learn how to cook like an Italian after reading this. My anniversary is coming up and I will definitely be looking for some Italian food, followed by a nice scoop of gelato.
Everything about this book, from the wise words of Paulina, Amelia, Gio, and others, filled my soul up. And the end made me cry both happy and sad tears. Like I said, I had to let this one wash over me for a few days. It will be a long time before I let go.
Kudos to Robin Jones Gunn. This was brilliant. I look forward to the next adventure!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via NetGalley for my honest opinion.
September 18, 2025
I was so excited to see the second Suitcase Sisters was available and I was approved for it. Just like Tea With Elephants made me feel like I was experiencing Africa, Gelato At The Villa made me feel like I was in Italy. All of the characters were so likable and the descriptions of Italy lovely. I very much enjoyed this book and can’t wait for #3 in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Revell for allowing me to e-ARC this wonderful book in excellent form and honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Revell for allowing me to e-ARC this wonderful book in excellent form and honest review.
July 21, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my review copy.
I have loved Robin Jones Gunn's books from the first Sisterchick book. The new series Suitcase Sisters takes me back to those books. Infact this book gives a small nod to a character from Sisterchicks in Gondolas. Robin has a way of weaving a story that covers most emotions. I am always left wanting to have my own adventure with a friend that is like a sister.
This book we have Grace and Claire who both share a passion for reading. When the chance for a trip to Italy comes up they take it. While both are close friends they are both on their own paths in many ways. Both are looking for something they just don't realise what till this trip.
They are planning to stay in three areas of Italy. Venice, Florence and Bellagio. In these places they do quite a bit of sightseeing. Venice, they visit some of the famous places and see the sites but it is some of the characters that are most memorable. In Florence they stay at a Villa where they are taking cooking classes. Claire has a passion for cooking, Claire not so much. But they both love the charm and how they feel at home there. Again the people make the stay.
We can see that Claire has a passion for cooking and also is interested in art. While Grace finds peace and feels at home in the garden. I know some reviews are talking about all the food but I think myself I am more a Grace person. While seeing how some of the food is made especially the cookies/biscuits I would rather enjoy the gardens and outdoors.
The faith element is real in this book. Right from the start we can see Claire is struggling with faith issues. The locals they interact with all play their part in this story. I can't say how or why but they are a huge part of this book. There are scenes that I couldn't help but cry from the emotions of what was happening. It felt so real and I felt like I was witnessing what they were. I don't cry a lot in books but this book evoked these emotions. I would love to say more but you need to read it and let me know if you have the same reactions.
I agree with some others that this book is totally different from Tea with Elephants but its a different location with two leading ladies in different situations. Very much like the Sisterchick books were all so different. In saying this it still has the same feel of two friends having a once in a lifetime experience that changes them forever. Myself personally I like the differences while I don't have the desire to visit Italy it did make me wish I could experience what Claire and Grace did.
Oh and how can I forget Gelato, they made it a mission to try to have as much gelato as possible trying different flavours. It brings me back to a bus tour I was on when one night I went to a small Gelato Cafe and had it for the first time. This is where I had pineapple gelato and while it may not be the same as in Italy I have never forgotten the taste. I would have loved to join them tasting so many different gelatos.
Great read, if you enjoy Robin Jones Gunn this book won't disappoint. Also these books are stand alone reads and can be read in any order. Do I have to wait 12 months for the next book?
I have loved Robin Jones Gunn's books from the first Sisterchick book. The new series Suitcase Sisters takes me back to those books. Infact this book gives a small nod to a character from Sisterchicks in Gondolas. Robin has a way of weaving a story that covers most emotions. I am always left wanting to have my own adventure with a friend that is like a sister.
This book we have Grace and Claire who both share a passion for reading. When the chance for a trip to Italy comes up they take it. While both are close friends they are both on their own paths in many ways. Both are looking for something they just don't realise what till this trip.
They are planning to stay in three areas of Italy. Venice, Florence and Bellagio. In these places they do quite a bit of sightseeing. Venice, they visit some of the famous places and see the sites but it is some of the characters that are most memorable. In Florence they stay at a Villa where they are taking cooking classes. Claire has a passion for cooking, Claire not so much. But they both love the charm and how they feel at home there. Again the people make the stay.
We can see that Claire has a passion for cooking and also is interested in art. While Grace finds peace and feels at home in the garden. I know some reviews are talking about all the food but I think myself I am more a Grace person. While seeing how some of the food is made especially the cookies/biscuits I would rather enjoy the gardens and outdoors.
The faith element is real in this book. Right from the start we can see Claire is struggling with faith issues. The locals they interact with all play their part in this story. I can't say how or why but they are a huge part of this book. There are scenes that I couldn't help but cry from the emotions of what was happening. It felt so real and I felt like I was witnessing what they were. I don't cry a lot in books but this book evoked these emotions. I would love to say more but you need to read it and let me know if you have the same reactions.
I agree with some others that this book is totally different from Tea with Elephants but its a different location with two leading ladies in different situations. Very much like the Sisterchick books were all so different. In saying this it still has the same feel of two friends having a once in a lifetime experience that changes them forever. Myself personally I like the differences while I don't have the desire to visit Italy it did make me wish I could experience what Claire and Grace did.
Oh and how can I forget Gelato, they made it a mission to try to have as much gelato as possible trying different flavours. It brings me back to a bus tour I was on when one night I went to a small Gelato Cafe and had it for the first time. This is where I had pineapple gelato and while it may not be the same as in Italy I have never forgotten the taste. I would have loved to join them tasting so many different gelatos.
Great read, if you enjoy Robin Jones Gunn this book won't disappoint. Also these books are stand alone reads and can be read in any order. Do I have to wait 12 months for the next book?
August 16, 2025
4.5 stars
“Simple joys are holy.”
Whether you are an avid traveler or, like me, someone who refuses to get on an airplane, you can vicariously tag along on this second stand-alone Suitcase Sisters adventure by Robin Jones Gunn – no passports or luggage necessary! Gelato at the Villa follows a new pair of besties who are off on an adventure of a lifetime, and while I’ve never had the slightest desire to travel to Italy before reading this touching feast for the senses, I do now! (If only I can figure out how to do that without air or ship travel lol) Not as much for the tourist attractions as for the charm of the people that Grace & Claire meet there, the simple-but-holy moments (and more peaceful pace) that they experience, and of course the food – including the infamous gelato – that they indulge in. There’s laughter, lots of smiles, and even some tears (two scenes in particular undid me), and all of it just wraps you up in the joy of sisterhood, the wonder of new places, and the grace of Jesus.
Grace and Claire may share a love of books and their families but otherwise their interests tend to go in different directions. Claire is more into art and cooking, Grace into gardening and the Lord. And while Claire isn’t looking for a relationship with God (thanks to some long-buried, spirit-shattering wounds that Gunn handles with discretion and compassion), it becomes clear throughout their trip that He is still gently and faithfully pursuing her broken heart. Grace isn’t off the hook though, as He has some growth in store for her too – and oh how I related to certain aspects of her faith journey. Something that washed over me several times as I read Gelato at the Villa was the exquisite tenderness and personal intentionality of God’s care for us. And watching Him work in Grace & Claire’s lives felt like a sweet hug from Him for my own life, courtesy of Robin Jones Gunn’s insightful character development and warm writing voice.
Bottom Line: Gelato at the Villa by Robin Jones Gunn transports us to the waterways and basilicas and gelato stands of Italy, the joy of a best friend by our side, in a moving and richly-descriptive novel that immerses you almost tangibly in each moment. Whether it’s a harrowing new experience, a delicious-sounding meal, a hilarious encounter, a soothing respite, a tear-filled prayer, or a heartfelt conversation around a table, this story engaged several of my emotions and left me grateful and uplifted by the end. Through the organic thread of faith seamlessly woven into the fabric of Grace & Claire’s journey, Gunn gently demonstrates how to approach life as pilgrims seeking both the footsteps of Jesus and the reflections of His Story that are all around us. It has depth without being heavy and humor without being shallow, making it a perfect book club choice or buddy read (especially if the latter is with your best friend). I wonder where we’ll be off to next?
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
“Simple joys are holy.”
Whether you are an avid traveler or, like me, someone who refuses to get on an airplane, you can vicariously tag along on this second stand-alone Suitcase Sisters adventure by Robin Jones Gunn – no passports or luggage necessary! Gelato at the Villa follows a new pair of besties who are off on an adventure of a lifetime, and while I’ve never had the slightest desire to travel to Italy before reading this touching feast for the senses, I do now! (If only I can figure out how to do that without air or ship travel lol) Not as much for the tourist attractions as for the charm of the people that Grace & Claire meet there, the simple-but-holy moments (and more peaceful pace) that they experience, and of course the food – including the infamous gelato – that they indulge in. There’s laughter, lots of smiles, and even some tears (two scenes in particular undid me), and all of it just wraps you up in the joy of sisterhood, the wonder of new places, and the grace of Jesus.
Grace and Claire may share a love of books and their families but otherwise their interests tend to go in different directions. Claire is more into art and cooking, Grace into gardening and the Lord. And while Claire isn’t looking for a relationship with God (thanks to some long-buried, spirit-shattering wounds that Gunn handles with discretion and compassion), it becomes clear throughout their trip that He is still gently and faithfully pursuing her broken heart. Grace isn’t off the hook though, as He has some growth in store for her too – and oh how I related to certain aspects of her faith journey. Something that washed over me several times as I read Gelato at the Villa was the exquisite tenderness and personal intentionality of God’s care for us. And watching Him work in Grace & Claire’s lives felt like a sweet hug from Him for my own life, courtesy of Robin Jones Gunn’s insightful character development and warm writing voice.
Bottom Line: Gelato at the Villa by Robin Jones Gunn transports us to the waterways and basilicas and gelato stands of Italy, the joy of a best friend by our side, in a moving and richly-descriptive novel that immerses you almost tangibly in each moment. Whether it’s a harrowing new experience, a delicious-sounding meal, a hilarious encounter, a soothing respite, a tear-filled prayer, or a heartfelt conversation around a table, this story engaged several of my emotions and left me grateful and uplifted by the end. Through the organic thread of faith seamlessly woven into the fabric of Grace & Claire’s journey, Gunn gently demonstrates how to approach life as pilgrims seeking both the footsteps of Jesus and the reflections of His Story that are all around us. It has depth without being heavy and humor without being shallow, making it a perfect book club choice or buddy read (especially if the latter is with your best friend). I wonder where we’ll be off to next?
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 19, 2025
Grace and Claire have been friends for quite some time and are taking a much-needed vacation from their California homes to northern Italy. They begin in Venice and make their way to a B&B Villa in Tuscany.
The Good
- All of the chapters begin with a quote, many of which are some Italian saying (translated into English).
- Northern Italy (and scoffing at Rome). So much about this book made me miss northern Italy (and agua frizzante, sorry agua minerale touted throughout the book.
- The ways in which Grace's faith spurs her forward, even while Claire tries to avoid a lot related to religion.
- For the first time since I've been there, I wish I could have experienced more of Venice. I was fine with 4 hours there, feeling it overrated, but this book helped me realize that I just needed to get out of the tourist part of Venice to better experience it. I also found it interesting their experience of Florence was only a one-day adventure (Florence needs more time!) and seemed less good than Venice. Meanwhile, I loved Florence despite some of my feelings that day and the rain.
- Pasta with pumpkin puree. I wouldn't eat it myself, but pumpkin is definitely big in northern Italy, which would have surprised me if I hadn't been there.
- Everyone raves about the Ponte Vecchio--this book is the first time I've heard someone admit it's just shops of jewelers which doesn't do anything for me.
- All the Davids in Florence. The desire to tour the Accademia Gallery for the original David because the outside statue does nothing.
The Bad
- Despite the women missing their husbands and children, there doesn't seem to be any attempt to call or text or video call home. When I was in Italy, I at least text my husband every day, if he was still working when I was going to bed. It wasn't until almost 70% in that it was mentioned that rates were high. So...they can pay for international internet/data but not for a phone plan? That makes zero sense.
- Grace especially is baffled at Venice being built on wooden platforms/logs. It's like neither knew Venice has been sinking for centuries, which makes zero sense.
- There is a lot of telling, especially when the women have some deep conversations. Some of these make sense, since Claire doesn't like to talk about her past, but I feel like their conversations are solely to tell the reader what's going on through dialogue and not internal thoughts.
- While some areas and experiences are described well, others are brushed over. The pacing of the book feels more touristy rather than following the slower pace of Italy. Parts of the book brought me back while others made me feel like an outsider looking in. For example, after their day in Florence, Claire said they did a lot...but only like three things were mentioned.
- For me personally (this is not a dig at the book), most of the food sounds awful.
The pacing is really what got to me. There was a lot but also a lot of surface-level information.
The Good
- All of the chapters begin with a quote, many of which are some Italian saying (translated into English).
- Northern Italy (and scoffing at Rome). So much about this book made me miss northern Italy (and agua frizzante, sorry agua minerale touted throughout the book.
- The ways in which Grace's faith spurs her forward, even while Claire tries to avoid a lot related to religion.
- For the first time since I've been there, I wish I could have experienced more of Venice. I was fine with 4 hours there, feeling it overrated, but this book helped me realize that I just needed to get out of the tourist part of Venice to better experience it. I also found it interesting their experience of Florence was only a one-day adventure (Florence needs more time!) and seemed less good than Venice. Meanwhile, I loved Florence despite some of my feelings that day and the rain.
- Pasta with pumpkin puree. I wouldn't eat it myself, but pumpkin is definitely big in northern Italy, which would have surprised me if I hadn't been there.
- Everyone raves about the Ponte Vecchio--this book is the first time I've heard someone admit it's just shops of jewelers which doesn't do anything for me.
- All the Davids in Florence. The desire to tour the Accademia Gallery for the original David because the outside statue does nothing.
The Bad
- Despite the women missing their husbands and children, there doesn't seem to be any attempt to call or text or video call home. When I was in Italy, I at least text my husband every day, if he was still working when I was going to bed. It wasn't until almost 70% in that it was mentioned that rates were high. So...they can pay for international internet/data but not for a phone plan? That makes zero sense.
- Grace especially is baffled at Venice being built on wooden platforms/logs. It's like neither knew Venice has been sinking for centuries, which makes zero sense.
- There is a lot of telling, especially when the women have some deep conversations. Some of these make sense, since Claire doesn't like to talk about her past, but I feel like their conversations are solely to tell the reader what's going on through dialogue and not internal thoughts.
- While some areas and experiences are described well, others are brushed over. The pacing of the book feels more touristy rather than following the slower pace of Italy. Parts of the book brought me back while others made me feel like an outsider looking in. For example, after their day in Florence, Claire said they did a lot...but only like three things were mentioned.
- For me personally (this is not a dig at the book), most of the food sounds awful.
The pacing is really what got to me. There was a lot but also a lot of surface-level information.
September 12, 2025
Since SISTERCHICKS ON THE LOOSE over twenty years ago, I have been a fan of Robin Jones Gunn’s sisterhood stories. When she relaunched that sisterhood theme with the Suitcase Sisters (TEA WITH ELEPHANTS) last year, I had my “bags” packed for new adventures that would no doubt make me laugh, cry, and come “home” better for the reading experience. In her latest Suitcase Sisters Novel, GELATO AT THE VILLA, there were even more emotions and a beautiful and heartbreaking faith journey. This one may be my most favorite … Until the next one, right?
THE STORY: Grace and Claire formed a close friendship over their love of reading. Years and many books later they decide the time had come to live out an adventure rather than just reading about it. Their destination? Italy!
As they travel through Venice, Tuscany, and Florence, history comes alive all around them while unresolved issues in their own personal histories rise to the surface. Immersed in magnificent works of art, scrumptious gelato flavors, and endless pasta variations, they find themselves more vulnerable about sharing their struggles than they ever were at home. Their adventures in Italy become a catalyst for discovering new purpose, deeper faith, and unexpected blessings that change their lives forever.
I have always wanted to visit Italy. Living vicariously through introverted Grace and adventurous Claire was so genuine I could almost taste the gelato myself. Robin explores themes like insecurities, childhood trauma, and forgiveness, which made me reflect on my own experiences and add depth to the story. She drew out lots of laughs, buckets of tears, and an unending craving for pasta! Robin's descriptive writing style brought Italy to life. Loved it!
Highly recommended for fans of Robin Jones Gunn, sisterhood themed stories, women’s contemporary, authentic faith journeys. As always, clean fiction in this Christian read. The author's genuine voice and relatable characters make this a standout read for anyone seeking inspiration and comfort.
I received a complimentary copy of GELATO AT THE VILLA from Revell and Net Galley for my honest review.
THE STORY: Grace and Claire formed a close friendship over their love of reading. Years and many books later they decide the time had come to live out an adventure rather than just reading about it. Their destination? Italy!
As they travel through Venice, Tuscany, and Florence, history comes alive all around them while unresolved issues in their own personal histories rise to the surface. Immersed in magnificent works of art, scrumptious gelato flavors, and endless pasta variations, they find themselves more vulnerable about sharing their struggles than they ever were at home. Their adventures in Italy become a catalyst for discovering new purpose, deeper faith, and unexpected blessings that change their lives forever.
I have always wanted to visit Italy. Living vicariously through introverted Grace and adventurous Claire was so genuine I could almost taste the gelato myself. Robin explores themes like insecurities, childhood trauma, and forgiveness, which made me reflect on my own experiences and add depth to the story. She drew out lots of laughs, buckets of tears, and an unending craving for pasta! Robin's descriptive writing style brought Italy to life. Loved it!
Highly recommended for fans of Robin Jones Gunn, sisterhood themed stories, women’s contemporary, authentic faith journeys. As always, clean fiction in this Christian read. The author's genuine voice and relatable characters make this a standout read for anyone seeking inspiration and comfort.
I received a complimentary copy of GELATO AT THE VILLA from Revell and Net Galley for my honest review.
October 10, 2025
Reading Gelato at the Villa feels like taking a vicarious vacation through Italy—Venice, Florence, and a quiet town near the Swiss border. Each setting is painted with vivid, sensory detail, the kind that makes you taste the gelato, hear the lapping canals, and feel the sunlight warming ancient stone.
At its core, this is women’s fiction—tender, reflective, and filled with the subtle complexities of female relationships. It’s a gentle, restorative read, the kind that reminds you to slow down and savor beauty in both story and life.
One of the most memorable moments comes from a lace shop worker who says,
“Stories show us truth, beauty, and hope. Stories are a gift. This is why we must always give others the gift of our stories.”
That single line captures the novel’s heart. Gunn reminds us that stories shape how we think and create, and that everyone carries one—misty echoes of something untold.
Throughout the book, there’s a quiet conviction that “hints of God’s story are everywhere.” His presence isn’t confined to sacred spaces, but pulses through ordinary moments: the shimmer of morning light, a shared meal, the act of creating something beautiful.
Another line, spoken by Amelia in Tuscany, lingers long after the final page:
“I invite you to make space for passion in your life. Be fully alive when you cook and when you love. You are created to experience beauty and love and passion.”
The prose often matches that sentiment in tone and texture. One of my favorite descriptions reads,
“The sunlight seemed to take the form of glimmering fingers reaching from the sky and gently rousing the world around me.”
That image encapsulates what the novel does best—it awakens something quiet and hopeful within the reader.
Ultimately, Gelato at the Villa is more than a travel story; it’s a tender testimony that God is all around us—in the mundane, in joy, and even through struggle. His love is constant. We simply have to recoignize it.
At its core, this is women’s fiction—tender, reflective, and filled with the subtle complexities of female relationships. It’s a gentle, restorative read, the kind that reminds you to slow down and savor beauty in both story and life.
One of the most memorable moments comes from a lace shop worker who says,
“Stories show us truth, beauty, and hope. Stories are a gift. This is why we must always give others the gift of our stories.”
That single line captures the novel’s heart. Gunn reminds us that stories shape how we think and create, and that everyone carries one—misty echoes of something untold.
Throughout the book, there’s a quiet conviction that “hints of God’s story are everywhere.” His presence isn’t confined to sacred spaces, but pulses through ordinary moments: the shimmer of morning light, a shared meal, the act of creating something beautiful.
Another line, spoken by Amelia in Tuscany, lingers long after the final page:
“I invite you to make space for passion in your life. Be fully alive when you cook and when you love. You are created to experience beauty and love and passion.”
The prose often matches that sentiment in tone and texture. One of my favorite descriptions reads,
“The sunlight seemed to take the form of glimmering fingers reaching from the sky and gently rousing the world around me.”
That image encapsulates what the novel does best—it awakens something quiet and hopeful within the reader.
Ultimately, Gelato at the Villa is more than a travel story; it’s a tender testimony that God is all around us—in the mundane, in joy, and even through struggle. His love is constant. We simply have to recoignize it.
October 29, 2025
Travel offers two gifts to the simple pilgrim:
Unrivaled wonders on display in the wild.
The unveiling of wishes on hold in your heart.
Take a trip with the Suitcase Sisters to see and taste the sights of Italy.
Grace and Claire had such a memorable trip together to Africa in Tea with Elephants that they are ready for another destination.
I absolutely loved the virtual travelling experience. Venice, Florence, and Bellagio came to life within these pages. While I still would love to go in real life, I was blessed by this read. Robin Jones Gunn covers the means of grace in some memorable ways:
🙏Grace and Claire are not at the same place in their faith walk and Grace struggles with how she can support and encourage her travel companion. As they pray with their Italian hosts/hostesses and individually, the answers come.
🍝Hospitality and fellowship feed body and soul. Learning about Paulina's hospitality ministry in Venice and the way Gio and Amelia met in Florence are significant experiences for both women.
🍦The search for the best gelato has them even eating it for breakfast! They end up buying out a gelatera once by mistake and that gives them GELATO AT THE VILLA and blesses all staying there.
🌊By Lake Como our ladies witness a baptism ceremony and we see how that sacrament leads to a pivotal moment in Claire's life.
🍞Eating at the table of Gio and Amelia at their Tuscany villa and in Florence leads to a discussion of the wedding supper of the Lamb and described at the end of Revelation. While Christ's bride is a work in progress, we do have the promise of that wonderful day.
Book group questions are included in this edition and it would make for a wonderful group selection with readers who love an inspirational travel read. I wonder where the Suitcase Sisters will go next and if their daughters will go along next time?
Unrivaled wonders on display in the wild.
The unveiling of wishes on hold in your heart.
Take a trip with the Suitcase Sisters to see and taste the sights of Italy.
Grace and Claire had such a memorable trip together to Africa in Tea with Elephants that they are ready for another destination.
I absolutely loved the virtual travelling experience. Venice, Florence, and Bellagio came to life within these pages. While I still would love to go in real life, I was blessed by this read. Robin Jones Gunn covers the means of grace in some memorable ways:
🙏Grace and Claire are not at the same place in their faith walk and Grace struggles with how she can support and encourage her travel companion. As they pray with their Italian hosts/hostesses and individually, the answers come.
🍝Hospitality and fellowship feed body and soul. Learning about Paulina's hospitality ministry in Venice and the way Gio and Amelia met in Florence are significant experiences for both women.
🍦The search for the best gelato has them even eating it for breakfast! They end up buying out a gelatera once by mistake and that gives them GELATO AT THE VILLA and blesses all staying there.
🌊By Lake Como our ladies witness a baptism ceremony and we see how that sacrament leads to a pivotal moment in Claire's life.
🍞Eating at the table of Gio and Amelia at their Tuscany villa and in Florence leads to a discussion of the wedding supper of the Lamb and described at the end of Revelation. While Christ's bride is a work in progress, we do have the promise of that wonderful day.
Book group questions are included in this edition and it would make for a wonderful group selection with readers who love an inspirational travel read. I wonder where the Suitcase Sisters will go next and if their daughters will go along next time?
November 29, 2025
I enjoyed reading Gelato at the Villa, the second book in Robin Jones Gunn’s charming Suitcase Sisters vacation contemporary series. Grace is a medical receptionist from California who’s married with a young daughter. She plans a vacation in Italy with Claire, her best friend who shares her passion for books and reading. Claire is also married with a young daughter. She’s a construction company project manager who lives near Claire in California.
The story opens with Grace and Claire landing in Italy and heading to their first stop in Venice. They later visit Tuscany and the northern lake region. The setting is steeped in history and is like a character in the story.
I loved travelling with Grace and Claire as they immersed themselves in experiencing the fascinating history, architecture, churches, art, culture, hospitality and culinary delights of Northern Italy. Pasta and gelato, among other local delicacies, are featured in the story.
Grace and Claire fell in love with Italy, despite encountering a few hiccups and a couple of surprises in their travel plans. I loved the side characters and the pearls of wisdom they generously shared with Claire and Grace along with their hospitality.
The story is beautifully written in single point of view from Claire’s perspective. Claire and Grace’s faith and healing journeys are explored as they deal with past emotional baggage. They are challenged to consider faith matters and their relationship with God.
I recommend Gelato at the Villa to contemporary readers who like vacation, foodie and friendship womens fiction that includes strong faith elements with forgiveness themes.
The story opens with Grace and Claire landing in Italy and heading to their first stop in Venice. They later visit Tuscany and the northern lake region. The setting is steeped in history and is like a character in the story.
I loved travelling with Grace and Claire as they immersed themselves in experiencing the fascinating history, architecture, churches, art, culture, hospitality and culinary delights of Northern Italy. Pasta and gelato, among other local delicacies, are featured in the story.
Grace and Claire fell in love with Italy, despite encountering a few hiccups and a couple of surprises in their travel plans. I loved the side characters and the pearls of wisdom they generously shared with Claire and Grace along with their hospitality.
The story is beautifully written in single point of view from Claire’s perspective. Claire and Grace’s faith and healing journeys are explored as they deal with past emotional baggage. They are challenged to consider faith matters and their relationship with God.
I recommend Gelato at the Villa to contemporary readers who like vacation, foodie and friendship womens fiction that includes strong faith elements with forgiveness themes.
September 18, 2025
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Pub Date: August 19, 2025
Synopsis
Grace and Claire, the Suitcase Sisters, have formed a close friendship over their love of reading. They decide to travel to Italy, visiting Venice, Florence, and Bellagio where they soak in the magnificent works of art, delicious gelato flavors, and endless pasta dishes of Italy. As they travel, they get even closer, sharing their struggles in ways they never have. A special dinner party will bring unexpected revelations about faith and God's nearness to both Claire and Grace.
My Thoughts
I love reading books about Italy, so picking this book up was a no brainer for me. The book shares a lot of history on many famous landmarks in Italy. I felt like I was right there traveling with Grace and Claire every step of the way. It was such a cozy, heartwarming read of two friends who learn about themselves and their relationship with God as they journey around Italy. I loved how the characters were so relatable, with Claire struggling with her relationship with God because she was once hurt by the church and Grace trying to help her friend navigate this unfortunate circumstance with patience and grace, in an effort to not push her away more. The book ends beautifully and you’ll be smiling with joy.
This is the second book in The Suitcase Sisters series, but you don’t have to read the first book to read this one.
Themes
- Christianity
- Travel
- Italy
Ratings
Characters: 5 ⭐️
Pace: 3 ⭐️
Enjoyability: 4 ⭐️
Thank you Revell and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book!
Pub Date: August 19, 2025
Synopsis
Grace and Claire, the Suitcase Sisters, have formed a close friendship over their love of reading. They decide to travel to Italy, visiting Venice, Florence, and Bellagio where they soak in the magnificent works of art, delicious gelato flavors, and endless pasta dishes of Italy. As they travel, they get even closer, sharing their struggles in ways they never have. A special dinner party will bring unexpected revelations about faith and God's nearness to both Claire and Grace.
My Thoughts
I love reading books about Italy, so picking this book up was a no brainer for me. The book shares a lot of history on many famous landmarks in Italy. I felt like I was right there traveling with Grace and Claire every step of the way. It was such a cozy, heartwarming read of two friends who learn about themselves and their relationship with God as they journey around Italy. I loved how the characters were so relatable, with Claire struggling with her relationship with God because she was once hurt by the church and Grace trying to help her friend navigate this unfortunate circumstance with patience and grace, in an effort to not push her away more. The book ends beautifully and you’ll be smiling with joy.
This is the second book in The Suitcase Sisters series, but you don’t have to read the first book to read this one.
Themes
- Christianity
- Travel
- Italy
Ratings
Characters: 5 ⭐️
Pace: 3 ⭐️
Enjoyability: 4 ⭐️
Thank you Revell and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book!
November 1, 2025
This was a fun treat of a book. I found myself wishing I could actually travel and experience the same things myself. I have never even been out of the country before, but this series has made me want to pack my suitcase and go. And it would be a blast to experience it with a girl's group. Traveling and exploring with a few fellow women would be a blast. Seeing the friendship between the women in this book was great. And Robin Jones Gunn does an amazing job at painting pictures with her descriptive style of writing. She brought it all to life in a magical, realistic and totally relatable way. I am not a huge fan of contemporary fiction, but I was impressed with the way this story was done, for the development it took, and the flow it had. I didn't find myself bored or my mind wandering once while reading, which is proof that she is a master storyteller since I am easily distracted when reading contemporary fiction. In addition to the wonderful storyline, I absolutely LOVE the fact that there were recipes included at the end of this book, as well as discussion questions. I was not expecting to see those in a fictional story and was pleasantly surprised! (I actually decided to bake on of the cookies recipes and it was delicious!) This series is a fun, easy to read, contemporary read that leaves you wanting more. Here's hoping she has more planned for this series and it doesn't conclude with just the two books!
July 17, 2025
Please read this review on my blog: https://bookreadingtic.com/2025/07/10... AND PLEASE FOLLOW ME, THANK YOU!
Let the Adventure Begin
Claire and Grace are two adult best friends that decide to take a trip to Italy together--no spouses or children are included.
Although they had both been there in the past, it was a long time ago, and disappointing. This time, they will be in charge what they do, where they stay, and the adventures they have.
Robin does a very good job of making it feel like you are there with the characters, and traveling right along with them. I feel like I have visited Italy, too, and explored all the places with Claire and Grace.
The two of them experience amazing things, and doing so, changes both of their lives. There is a strong thread of faith that runs through this--with one of them a believer, and the other not--and the effect it has on each one.
Reading this would be wonderful just for the feeling of having been on this trip, but including a great story in the mix, is a real cherry on top. The only thing I didn't like was the promoting of wine drinking, but loved everything else about this tale. I am ready to pack my bag, go to Italy, and re-trace all their steps.
This is a great, five-star story that I highly recommend.
Let the Adventure Begin
Claire and Grace are two adult best friends that decide to take a trip to Italy together--no spouses or children are included.
Although they had both been there in the past, it was a long time ago, and disappointing. This time, they will be in charge what they do, where they stay, and the adventures they have.
Robin does a very good job of making it feel like you are there with the characters, and traveling right along with them. I feel like I have visited Italy, too, and explored all the places with Claire and Grace.
The two of them experience amazing things, and doing so, changes both of their lives. There is a strong thread of faith that runs through this--with one of them a believer, and the other not--and the effect it has on each one.
Reading this would be wonderful just for the feeling of having been on this trip, but including a great story in the mix, is a real cherry on top. The only thing I didn't like was the promoting of wine drinking, but loved everything else about this tale. I am ready to pack my bag, go to Italy, and re-trace all their steps.
This is a great, five-star story that I highly recommend.
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