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Oh My Affogato!
Love & Gelato meets Emily in Paris in this sassy, sexy romp through the Amalfi Coast starring a boy-crazy teenager trying to make something real with her on-again-off-again guy before realizing the best things in life—like love and vacations—can’t be planned for.
Soraya is so close to getting the boy of her dreams to finally pay attention to her—she’s sure of it. She’s finally graduated from high school, glowed up, and is ready to show her on-again-off-again, secret situationship Wes what he’s missing out on. And when she learns that Wes is heading to Italy on a trip with his fraternity brothers, Sora decides that there’s no better place to reignite a romance than the Amalfi Coast!
Under the guise of a graduation Euro trip with her friends, Soraya’s plan is make memories with her besties during the day, make out with Wes at night, and make sure she comes out of this vacation with the title of Official Girlfriend and Grown College Girlie. But vacations can be messy, and romances messier—especially when you’re keeping secrets from your friends, discovering your dream boy may be a nightmare, and spending more and more time with the sweet, wholesome, and supremely cute Italian boy whose family runs the B&B.
For a girl who’s a true believer in sure things, Soraya has to learn the hard way that there really is no planning for love—or an epic vacation.
Soraya is so close to getting the boy of her dreams to finally pay attention to her—she’s sure of it. She’s finally graduated from high school, glowed up, and is ready to show her on-again-off-again, secret situationship Wes what he’s missing out on. And when she learns that Wes is heading to Italy on a trip with his fraternity brothers, Sora decides that there’s no better place to reignite a romance than the Amalfi Coast!
Under the guise of a graduation Euro trip with her friends, Soraya’s plan is make memories with her besties during the day, make out with Wes at night, and make sure she comes out of this vacation with the title of Official Girlfriend and Grown College Girlie. But vacations can be messy, and romances messier—especially when you’re keeping secrets from your friends, discovering your dream boy may be a nightmare, and spending more and more time with the sweet, wholesome, and supremely cute Italian boy whose family runs the B&B.
For a girl who’s a true believer in sure things, Soraya has to learn the hard way that there really is no planning for love—or an epic vacation.
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First published May 5, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 9, 2026
It's the summer after high school, and Soraya is ready for the rest of her life to begin—starting with a grand tour of Europe with her best friends. And if it just so happens that she's planned the trip to start where her totally not toxic ex, Wes, is hanging with his frat boy bros, well, she can't help coincidence, right? And if they're going to be in the same place anyway, now is obviously the time to secretly get back together...
Now. I read this because even in my relative dotage I cannot resist a fluffy YA travel story. And fluff this is; Soraya is bound and determined to spend as much as her time as possible getting a sunburn on the beach and drinking cocktails and swooning over boys, and as little time as possible doing anything involving history or local culture. If I had met Soraya in high school, we would not have been friends. We would have been perfectly cordial to each other, and probably gotten along fine for small talk, but she's the sort of person to think that someone decked head to toe in expensive brand names looks "effortlessly cool", while I am the sort of person to think that such a look is both stunningly unoriginal and the opposite of effortless. She would quietly dismiss me as an uncool nerd (this is accurate); I would quietly dismiss her as being a boy-crazy birdbrain; we would both be happy; and after graduation we would never speak again.
So that's where I found myself with Soraya: disappointed that she prioritizes a boy over her friendships and that her peak travel dreams involve doing the exact same things she can do at home (with a boy who jerks her around just as much in Italy as he did in Georgia). This latter point is not a character flaw (and nor is it meant to be), it's just that for wanderlust reads I prefer a bit more adventurousness. And these are learning points for Soraya, of course; she figures some things out for herself over the course of the book, and one is left with the impression that when she returns to the States for college she will at least do so with a bit more curiosity about the world. But...I'm also sort of left with the impression that if she couldn't switch over from a toxic boy to a nontoxic boy, she'd still have a bad case of the Wes Nile Virus (which, to give the book its credit, is excellent wordplay) by the time she went home.
With all that said: It's a fun and quick read. I did not click with Soraya, but I did read the entire book in one day and still have time to finish off another book at the gym. I'm not sure who exactly the target reader is (there's a bit too much spice to aim this at younger teens, but not a ton of depth either, so...I suppose older teens who just want something really light). There's some casual diversity, which is nice; also nice is that Soraya and her friends are on careful budgets and have no intention of blowing those budgets. It looks like this might be the first of several books, with the next one potentially taking place in France, and even years (decades!) out of my teens, I'll take whatever light travel books this series can throw at me.
Thanks to the authors and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
Now. I read this because even in my relative dotage I cannot resist a fluffy YA travel story. And fluff this is; Soraya is bound and determined to spend as much as her time as possible getting a sunburn on the beach and drinking cocktails and swooning over boys, and as little time as possible doing anything involving history or local culture. If I had met Soraya in high school, we would not have been friends. We would have been perfectly cordial to each other, and probably gotten along fine for small talk, but she's the sort of person to think that someone decked head to toe in expensive brand names looks "effortlessly cool", while I am the sort of person to think that such a look is both stunningly unoriginal and the opposite of effortless. She would quietly dismiss me as an uncool nerd (this is accurate); I would quietly dismiss her as being a boy-crazy birdbrain; we would both be happy; and after graduation we would never speak again.
So that's where I found myself with Soraya: disappointed that she prioritizes a boy over her friendships and that her peak travel dreams involve doing the exact same things she can do at home (with a boy who jerks her around just as much in Italy as he did in Georgia). This latter point is not a character flaw (and nor is it meant to be), it's just that for wanderlust reads I prefer a bit more adventurousness. And these are learning points for Soraya, of course; she figures some things out for herself over the course of the book, and one is left with the impression that when she returns to the States for college she will at least do so with a bit more curiosity about the world. But...I'm also sort of left with the impression that if she couldn't switch over from a toxic boy to a nontoxic boy, she'd still have a bad case of the Wes Nile Virus (which, to give the book its credit, is excellent wordplay) by the time she went home.
With all that said: It's a fun and quick read. I did not click with Soraya, but I did read the entire book in one day and still have time to finish off another book at the gym. I'm not sure who exactly the target reader is (there's a bit too much spice to aim this at younger teens, but not a ton of depth either, so...I suppose older teens who just want something really light). There's some casual diversity, which is nice; also nice is that Soraya and her friends are on careful budgets and have no intention of blowing those budgets. It looks like this might be the first of several books, with the next one potentially taking place in France, and even years (decades!) out of my teens, I'll take whatever light travel books this series can throw at me.
Thanks to the authors and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
March 23, 2026
This book made me want to book a trip to Italy! The setting really came to life. I love the Mediterranean anyway but the descriptions of everything were so vivid I could almost smell the sea breezes and taste the lemon gelato. This book is the perfect escapist read.
The main character Sora is Persian so that was unique. I’m not sure I’ve read a YA contemporary with a Persian main character. I liked learning a bit about her culture and family. I would have liked even more, but I enjoyed what there was. A lot of people found Sora to be kind of annoying but I liked her well enough. It was easy to understand why she would feel and act the way she did, and I liked seeing her grow as the story progressed. Nico was sweet and I liked their scenes together. There is one sex scene in the book (which I wasn’t really expecting and didn’t really fit with the sweeter overall tone of the story) so be aware of that going in.
Overall it was cute and I absolutely flew through it. It was breezy and fun.
The main character Sora is Persian so that was unique. I’m not sure I’ve read a YA contemporary with a Persian main character. I liked learning a bit about her culture and family. I would have liked even more, but I enjoyed what there was. A lot of people found Sora to be kind of annoying but I liked her well enough. It was easy to understand why she would feel and act the way she did, and I liked seeing her grow as the story progressed. Nico was sweet and I liked their scenes together. There is one sex scene in the book (which I wasn’t really expecting and didn’t really fit with the sweeter overall tone of the story) so be aware of that going in.
Overall it was cute and I absolutely flew through it. It was breezy and fun.
May 20, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ such a good heart warming YA summer romance.
Everything you need to have a great time reading it. Summer getaway, boys, friends, a bit of drama and introspection.
It was light and perfect for the summer time coming.
I love Nico, such a cute bookfriend.
I would of like to see a bit more of Nico and Sora together travelling 🥺💖
Thank you so much Simon and Schuster for the ARC ✨️
Everything you need to have a great time reading it. Summer getaway, boys, friends, a bit of drama and introspection.
It was light and perfect for the summer time coming.
I love Nico, such a cute bookfriend.
I would of like to see a bit more of Nico and Sora together travelling 🥺💖
Thank you so much Simon and Schuster for the ARC ✨️
May 2, 2026
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Overall this was a pretty good read. I’ve categorized it as both YA and NA because technically the characters are graduated from high school, but also because towards the end there is one scene that while is pretty much fade to black, it is a little more than maybe I would want in a YA book? But that’s just me probably. I loved that these girls came up with the money to spend I think it is almost 3 months in Europe? Wow! What an incredible after high school trip. I can’t imagine being away from my family that long, especially at that age, I mean I even came home from college every other weekend. Soraya or Sora was the main character, and while I did like her, it was frustrating to see her letting her ex-boyfriend continue to treat her like he did. And even more frustrating that she was completely hiding it from her two best friends that she was on the trip with. Nico however was a cutie, and definitely worth a vacation fling, or possibly more as he became in the end. A fun summer fling/romance and buddy trip story. It says it is part of a series, and I’m guessing that maybe we’ll get at least one of the other two girls if not both of their stories in future books? I really wish I could have a trip to Italy now, especially to see Pompeii and just to enjoy all the yummy food. Maybe some day!This review was originally posted on Lisa Loves Literature
May 6, 2026
Soraya and her friends Mari, and Anya decide to take a European trip after they graduate high school. They decided to start in Italy. What her friends don’t know is that Wes, the guy that broke Soraya’s heart, is also in Italy and Soraya is planning on meeting up with him. She thinks she’ll have it all! Hang out with her friends during the day, Wes at night, and walk away as Wes’ girlfriend. Things don’t always go as planned, including Nico, the cute Italian guy whose family runs the B&B where the girls are staying.
This was a very fun read. It was especially fun for me because we honeymooned all around Italy and I could easily place myself in the scenes of this book. I really loved the friendship among the girls, they really seemed to care and be there for each other. I could see how Soraya could be annoying, but I think it’s important to remember that she’s just graduated high school, so in reality, she really was just like a girl her age – overthinking and obsessed with things.
Nico was the best. He cared so much about his mother and his family’s business. He’s a good guy. He’s also very sweet, hard working, and thoughtful. It took a moment for Soraya to get there. I loved the ending and I hope that we’ll see these characters again!
This was a very fun read. It was especially fun for me because we honeymooned all around Italy and I could easily place myself in the scenes of this book. I really loved the friendship among the girls, they really seemed to care and be there for each other. I could see how Soraya could be annoying, but I think it’s important to remember that she’s just graduated high school, so in reality, she really was just like a girl her age – overthinking and obsessed with things.
Nico was the best. He cared so much about his mother and his family’s business. He’s a good guy. He’s also very sweet, hard working, and thoughtful. It took a moment for Soraya to get there. I loved the ending and I hope that we’ll see these characters again!
March 8, 2026
This was such a cute and fun read! Brought me right back to when I was getting ready to leave for college. It also gave Lizzie McGuire movie vibes in the best way possible! I wish that the book was a little longer to dive deeper into Sora’s friendships more and to have even more time with Nico. I would recommend this book!
May 8, 2026
A sweet YA summer romance set on the Amalfi Coast of Italy that has one American teenage girl torn between her ex boyfriend and the new local boy who drives her crazy. Lighthearted, romantic, full of fun times in Italy and perfect for fans of authors like Jenna Evans Welch. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 8, 2026
Super cute! Easy read! Loved it! :)
March 28, 2026
Review of Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley
This one took me back to how *big* everything felt when you’re 18 and fresh out of high-school! Sora’s growth throughout this book is so relatable as well as the friendships she makes on the way. “Oh My Affogato!” really has a way to transport you to the Amalfi Coast.
This one took me back to how *big* everything felt when you’re 18 and fresh out of high-school! Sora’s growth throughout this book is so relatable as well as the friendships she makes on the way. “Oh My Affogato!” really has a way to transport you to the Amalfi Coast.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Donna Ghorbanpoor, Daphne Ang, Liz Parkes (Illustrator)
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2026 (Paperback edition)
272 pages
Full review available here: https://prairiefoxreads.blogspot.com/...
Disclaimer: This is a pre-release review based on the review copy provided by the publisher and publicly available bibliographic data.
Overview
Oh My Affogato! blends rom-com energy with travel vibes and graphic novel flair. Described as a modern mash-up of Love & Gelato and Emily in Paris, the book follows Soraya (Sora), a high-spirited recent high school graduate who headlong chases a “sure thing” romance with her on-again-off-again boyfriend Wes during a graduation trip to Italy. Under the sunny Italian backdrop, Sora’s plan to upgrade her love life—and her status among friends—collides with real-life drama, secrets, and a sweet, wholesome Italian boy whose family runs a bed-and-breakfast. The result promises a breezy, witty, modern YA graphic novel about love, friendship, missteps, and the unpredictability of vacations turning into moments of real growth.
Objective Criteria and Scores (1 = poor, 5 = excellent)
Clarity of Core Premise: 4/5
Evidence: The premise—an impulsive vacation romance driven by a desire to lock in a relationship while navigating friend dynamics and new affection—comes through clearly. The blend of travel-tinged escapism and relationship ambition is appealing, though the tonal balance between comedy and earnest growth will determine how sharply the book lands for readers.
Organization / Structure: 4/5
Evidence: As a graphic novel-length narrative (272 pages), the structure supports brisk pacing with episodic beats: plan, misstep, miscommunication, and a resolution arc. The Italian setting offers a natural rhythm for chapters/sections, though the optimal success hinges on how smoothly the romantic and friendship threads are percieved by readers to intertwine in panels.
Depth of Characterization: 3.5/5
Evidence: Soraya’s ambitions and emotional arc prime a relatable YA journey—learning to read signals, manage expectations, and grow beyond the idea of “sure things.” Given the pre-release nature, reader depth depends on how the supporting cast (friends, Wes, the B&B family) is further developed and how Sora negotiates growth versus self-protective behavior in potential follow up editions.
Pacing & Narrative Drive: 4/5
Evidence: The travel setting and light, spunky voice provide energetic pacing with humorous banter and romantic tension. The real test will be whether moments of introspection balance the high-energy crush scenes to sustain momentum across the entire book.
Prose & Visual Style: 4/5
Evidence: As a graphic novel, visuals are central to storytelling—character expressions, color palette, panel layout, and scenery will carry much of the emotional weight. The tone indicates a contemporary, witty voice accompanied by engaging artwork, which should appeal to the YA audience.
Originality: 3.5/5
Evidence: The combination of a summer-rom-com vacation plot with a graphic novel format sits within popular YA trends. The Italy setting and B&B backdrop provide fresh locale flavor, but the core beats echo familiar rom-com and travel-novel territory. The execution and freshness will show in character nuance and panel-level storytelling choices.
Inclusivity & Accessibility: 4/5
Evidence: The premise centers on teenage romance and self-discovery, a familiar entry point for diverse YA readers. Clarity of mood and humor should be accessible to a broad audience.
Series Potential & Readiness for Continuation: 3.5/5
Evidence: While this is pitched as a standalone-feeling story, the YA romance travel dynamic and setting could seed sequels or further adventures in a similar vibe. The strength of character threads and world-building will influence future installments.
Aggregate and Overall Rating
Mean score across objective criteria (eight categories): 3.93/5
Rounded overall rating: 4.0 out of 5
Assessment Summary
Oh My Affogato! is positioned to charm readers who enjoy lighthearted, sun-soaked romantic escapades told through graphic storytelling. The Italy backdrop and the promise of a witty, modern voice provide a breezy, palate-pleasing read for fans of travel romance and YA contemporary graphic novels. The pre-release framing acknowledges a potential for delightful humor, heartfelt growth, and visually dynamic pages that could translate into strong classroom or library appeal for middle-to-upper teen audiences. Readers looking for a spirited, relationship-forward graphic novel with vacation vibes should keep an eye out for this one when it releases.
How I would describe Oh My Affogato!:
A bubbly, sun-drenched YA graphic novel about love, friendship, and the chaos that happens when plans go off-script in Italy.
A modern romance for readers who crave witty banter, relatable crushes, and a vacation twist that changes everything.
Beautifully illustrated with a playful, chic vibe that captures the drama and humor of teenage love on the Amalfi Coast.
Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, travel-lit vibes, and graphic novels seeking stylish, zippy storytelling.
A chic, page-turning YA graphic novel about love, plans, and growth set against the Amalfi Coast.
Sun, sea, and surprises: Oh My Affogato! serves up love and laughs in a stylish graphic novel.
A breezy, discussion-ready YA title about self-discovery, relationships, and following your heart on a dream vacation.
Bibliographic Note
Oh My Affogato! A Graphic Novel. Donna Ghorbanpoor, Daphne Ang, with illustrations by Liz Parkes. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2026 (Paperback edition). 272 pages. Language: English. ISBN: 9781665989671.
Rating: ★★★ 3.93 / 5
- Prairie Fox 🦊📖
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2026 (Paperback edition)
272 pages
Full review available here: https://prairiefoxreads.blogspot.com/...
Disclaimer: This is a pre-release review based on the review copy provided by the publisher and publicly available bibliographic data.
Overview
Oh My Affogato! blends rom-com energy with travel vibes and graphic novel flair. Described as a modern mash-up of Love & Gelato and Emily in Paris, the book follows Soraya (Sora), a high-spirited recent high school graduate who headlong chases a “sure thing” romance with her on-again-off-again boyfriend Wes during a graduation trip to Italy. Under the sunny Italian backdrop, Sora’s plan to upgrade her love life—and her status among friends—collides with real-life drama, secrets, and a sweet, wholesome Italian boy whose family runs a bed-and-breakfast. The result promises a breezy, witty, modern YA graphic novel about love, friendship, missteps, and the unpredictability of vacations turning into moments of real growth.
Objective Criteria and Scores (1 = poor, 5 = excellent)
Clarity of Core Premise: 4/5
Evidence: The premise—an impulsive vacation romance driven by a desire to lock in a relationship while navigating friend dynamics and new affection—comes through clearly. The blend of travel-tinged escapism and relationship ambition is appealing, though the tonal balance between comedy and earnest growth will determine how sharply the book lands for readers.
Organization / Structure: 4/5
Evidence: As a graphic novel-length narrative (272 pages), the structure supports brisk pacing with episodic beats: plan, misstep, miscommunication, and a resolution arc. The Italian setting offers a natural rhythm for chapters/sections, though the optimal success hinges on how smoothly the romantic and friendship threads are percieved by readers to intertwine in panels.
Depth of Characterization: 3.5/5
Evidence: Soraya’s ambitions and emotional arc prime a relatable YA journey—learning to read signals, manage expectations, and grow beyond the idea of “sure things.” Given the pre-release nature, reader depth depends on how the supporting cast (friends, Wes, the B&B family) is further developed and how Sora negotiates growth versus self-protective behavior in potential follow up editions.
Pacing & Narrative Drive: 4/5
Evidence: The travel setting and light, spunky voice provide energetic pacing with humorous banter and romantic tension. The real test will be whether moments of introspection balance the high-energy crush scenes to sustain momentum across the entire book.
Prose & Visual Style: 4/5
Evidence: As a graphic novel, visuals are central to storytelling—character expressions, color palette, panel layout, and scenery will carry much of the emotional weight. The tone indicates a contemporary, witty voice accompanied by engaging artwork, which should appeal to the YA audience.
Originality: 3.5/5
Evidence: The combination of a summer-rom-com vacation plot with a graphic novel format sits within popular YA trends. The Italy setting and B&B backdrop provide fresh locale flavor, but the core beats echo familiar rom-com and travel-novel territory. The execution and freshness will show in character nuance and panel-level storytelling choices.
Inclusivity & Accessibility: 4/5
Evidence: The premise centers on teenage romance and self-discovery, a familiar entry point for diverse YA readers. Clarity of mood and humor should be accessible to a broad audience.
Series Potential & Readiness for Continuation: 3.5/5
Evidence: While this is pitched as a standalone-feeling story, the YA romance travel dynamic and setting could seed sequels or further adventures in a similar vibe. The strength of character threads and world-building will influence future installments.
Aggregate and Overall Rating
Mean score across objective criteria (eight categories): 3.93/5
Rounded overall rating: 4.0 out of 5
Assessment Summary
Oh My Affogato! is positioned to charm readers who enjoy lighthearted, sun-soaked romantic escapades told through graphic storytelling. The Italy backdrop and the promise of a witty, modern voice provide a breezy, palate-pleasing read for fans of travel romance and YA contemporary graphic novels. The pre-release framing acknowledges a potential for delightful humor, heartfelt growth, and visually dynamic pages that could translate into strong classroom or library appeal for middle-to-upper teen audiences. Readers looking for a spirited, relationship-forward graphic novel with vacation vibes should keep an eye out for this one when it releases.
How I would describe Oh My Affogato!:
A bubbly, sun-drenched YA graphic novel about love, friendship, and the chaos that happens when plans go off-script in Italy.
A modern romance for readers who crave witty banter, relatable crushes, and a vacation twist that changes everything.
Beautifully illustrated with a playful, chic vibe that captures the drama and humor of teenage love on the Amalfi Coast.
Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, travel-lit vibes, and graphic novels seeking stylish, zippy storytelling.
A chic, page-turning YA graphic novel about love, plans, and growth set against the Amalfi Coast.
Sun, sea, and surprises: Oh My Affogato! serves up love and laughs in a stylish graphic novel.
A breezy, discussion-ready YA title about self-discovery, relationships, and following your heart on a dream vacation.
Bibliographic Note
Oh My Affogato! A Graphic Novel. Donna Ghorbanpoor, Daphne Ang, with illustrations by Liz Parkes. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2026 (Paperback edition). 272 pages. Language: English. ISBN: 9781665989671.
Rating: ★★★ 3.93 / 5
- Prairie Fox 🦊📖
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: Oh My Affogato!
Authors, Illustrator: Daphne Ang, Donna Ghorbanpoor, Liz Parkes
Age Group: Teen/Young Adult
Genre: Contemporary/Romance
Series: Vacationship, book one
Star Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
I read a review copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher, Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers–my deep thanks to both!
I’ve been discovering that in between my dark and fantasy reads, I’ve been gravitating towards contemporary books. I love books that remind me of summer, and this book perfectly fit the bill! It wasn’t perfect, but nonetheless, I really enjoyed it! I loved the premise, and especially the setting: Italy felt like a character all of its own. I just finished this book yesterday, and I’m still smiling because of it. It was fun, silly, and light, but it still had great character development and growth for its main character, Soraya. It really felt authentic, but still light and breezy.
Soraya, a boy crazy teen, is so close to getting the boy of her dreams, she can taste it. When she hears he’s going to Italy, she decides to make that the first stop on her international trip, she shares with two friends, Mari and Anya. Right when they get there, things begin to go wrong: their luxury hotel is more of a hole in the wall, and things with Wes quickly become derailed. Desperate to make it work with Wes, Soraya becomes so consumed that she nearly misses who is right in front of her: Nico, the son of the hotel they’re staying at. Will Soraya get her priorities straight or will she miss everything that is right in front of her?
This book was really cute! I loved Soraya’s voice, even though her boy crazy ways drove me a little crazy. The pacing was fast but smooth, and Italy felt like a character on its own; I was absolutely transfixed. I could almost taste the gelato and feel the sunshine on my face. Despite its flaws, I really liked the book and the way Soraya grew as a person and as a friend. I loved Anya and Mari, and Wes was the typical frat boy who cared about little except himself; he was so well-drawn, I really didn’t like him by the end of the book. Nico was one of my favorite parts of the book, I loved seeing him bond with Soraya and Mari and Anya. And that ending! It was so perfect. I hope this book is a series, because I’d gladly read the sequel! The bottom line: As rich and sweet as a cup of homemade gelato, I loved Oh My Affogato!
https://literatureobsessed.blogspot.c...
Authors, Illustrator: Daphne Ang, Donna Ghorbanpoor, Liz Parkes
Age Group: Teen/Young Adult
Genre: Contemporary/Romance
Series: Vacationship, book one
Star Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
I read a review copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher, Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers–my deep thanks to both!
I’ve been discovering that in between my dark and fantasy reads, I’ve been gravitating towards contemporary books. I love books that remind me of summer, and this book perfectly fit the bill! It wasn’t perfect, but nonetheless, I really enjoyed it! I loved the premise, and especially the setting: Italy felt like a character all of its own. I just finished this book yesterday, and I’m still smiling because of it. It was fun, silly, and light, but it still had great character development and growth for its main character, Soraya. It really felt authentic, but still light and breezy.
Soraya, a boy crazy teen, is so close to getting the boy of her dreams, she can taste it. When she hears he’s going to Italy, she decides to make that the first stop on her international trip, she shares with two friends, Mari and Anya. Right when they get there, things begin to go wrong: their luxury hotel is more of a hole in the wall, and things with Wes quickly become derailed. Desperate to make it work with Wes, Soraya becomes so consumed that she nearly misses who is right in front of her: Nico, the son of the hotel they’re staying at. Will Soraya get her priorities straight or will she miss everything that is right in front of her?
This book was really cute! I loved Soraya’s voice, even though her boy crazy ways drove me a little crazy. The pacing was fast but smooth, and Italy felt like a character on its own; I was absolutely transfixed. I could almost taste the gelato and feel the sunshine on my face. Despite its flaws, I really liked the book and the way Soraya grew as a person and as a friend. I loved Anya and Mari, and Wes was the typical frat boy who cared about little except himself; he was so well-drawn, I really didn’t like him by the end of the book. Nico was one of my favorite parts of the book, I loved seeing him bond with Soraya and Mari and Anya. And that ending! It was so perfect. I hope this book is a series, because I’d gladly read the sequel! The bottom line: As rich and sweet as a cup of homemade gelato, I loved Oh My Affogato!
https://literatureobsessed.blogspot.c...
April 14, 2026
Read a free ARC from NetGalley.
Soraya has planned a great summer trip for her and her friends Marisol and Anya. Marisol and Anya will be heading off to college and Soraya will be staying in their home town as she did not get into the schools she wanted. They start on the Amalfi Coast in Italy at the Santa Angelica hotel. It's not exactly the hotel they pictured, but the view is beautiful and the hotel owner's son, Nico, is handsome, kind and has great suggestions about things that interest them. The one thing to mess with the girls' perfect summer plans - Soraya's ex Wes, who constantly leads her on and who is vacationing on the Amalfi Coast in the same area. Soraya secretly knew Wes would be there, didn't tell her friends, and convinced them to start their trip there all in the hopes that she could get back together with Wes. They inevitably find out about Wes and are angry at Soraya for lying to them. While Anya and Marisol are angry, Soraya spends time with Nico, who is the kind of boy she should be interested in. The more time she spends with him, the more she likes him. She just isn't sure if he would be interested in her. Will her friends forgive her for lying to them? Will she and Nico be more than friends? Will terrible Wes stop messing with her heart and go away? (Hopefully yes to all three.)
I thought it was a fun YA beach read.
Note: There is a sex scene near the end of the book, so if you are thinking about recommending it, be aware.
Soraya has planned a great summer trip for her and her friends Marisol and Anya. Marisol and Anya will be heading off to college and Soraya will be staying in their home town as she did not get into the schools she wanted. They start on the Amalfi Coast in Italy at the Santa Angelica hotel. It's not exactly the hotel they pictured, but the view is beautiful and the hotel owner's son, Nico, is handsome, kind and has great suggestions about things that interest them. The one thing to mess with the girls' perfect summer plans - Soraya's ex Wes, who constantly leads her on and who is vacationing on the Amalfi Coast in the same area. Soraya secretly knew Wes would be there, didn't tell her friends, and convinced them to start their trip there all in the hopes that she could get back together with Wes. They inevitably find out about Wes and are angry at Soraya for lying to them. While Anya and Marisol are angry, Soraya spends time with Nico, who is the kind of boy she should be interested in. The more time she spends with him, the more she likes him. She just isn't sure if he would be interested in her. Will her friends forgive her for lying to them? Will she and Nico be more than friends? Will terrible Wes stop messing with her heart and go away? (Hopefully yes to all three.)
I thought it was a fun YA beach read.
Note: There is a sex scene near the end of the book, so if you are thinking about recommending it, be aware.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oh My Affogato! Is a charming and sweet YA romance with the dreamiest backdrop. This book truly made me want to take a trip to Italy. The setting really came alive, the descriptions were so descriptive and vivid. This is definitely a great escapist read to be transported to the Mediterranean and the beach. It's an easy read, the pace is nice and moves along quite quickly. The vacation and setting were truly the highlight of this novel. I also feel like this book should be marketed more towards NA audiences as there are things I wouldn't feel comfortable with younger readers reading and towards the end it gets spicy and very inappropriate to YA readers. I feel the marketing of books needs to be taken into consideration more.
Soraya is a very unlikable FMC which makes it really hard to root for her. She is immature, a little annoying and very self centered. I don't feel she had a full redemption or experienced full emotional growth by the end. I did enjoy the friendship between the 3 girls, they definitely all had their flaws in it but I felt like they all cared for one another. The Italian boy Nico was so sweet, charming and kind. For me I just didn't feel their connection to be honest, it just didn't work for me.
Overall, this is a good beach read that is fun and fast to read. It definitely has its flaws but the setting does make up for it in a way.
✨️ Thank you to @simonschusterca & Donna Ghorbanpoor for my gifted ARC.
Soraya is a very unlikable FMC which makes it really hard to root for her. She is immature, a little annoying and very self centered. I don't feel she had a full redemption or experienced full emotional growth by the end. I did enjoy the friendship between the 3 girls, they definitely all had their flaws in it but I felt like they all cared for one another. The Italian boy Nico was so sweet, charming and kind. For me I just didn't feel their connection to be honest, it just didn't work for me.
Overall, this is a good beach read that is fun and fast to read. It definitely has its flaws but the setting does make up for it in a way.
✨️ Thank you to @simonschusterca & Donna Ghorbanpoor for my gifted ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
After graduating high school, Soraya is travelling with her two best friends to Europe for a multi-country, three-month adventure. The plan is to start along the Amalfi Coast in Italy. What her friends don’t know is that she has ulterior motives. Her on-again-off-again boyfriend, Wes, is also spending the summer with friends in Amalfi. She plans to hang out with her friends during the day and sneak away with Wes at night. Things get messy when the secrets she has been keeping come to the surface; Soraya has to learn that love may find you in the most unexpected places.
Soraya was messy! She was immature and self-centred. I am all for an unlikeable character, but in a romance I want to see growth. I am not convinced that Sora made any significant changes or learned much from her mistakes. I also found that the story wrapped up a little too quickly, and would have liked to see more of what happened after rather than her relationship with Wes.
That being said, I loved the travel aspect of the book, spending time in Amalfi, Italy. The authors set the scene well, making me want to visit again.
This would be a good book for teens who want an escape this season. Thank you to Simon and Schuster Canada for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
Soraya was messy! She was immature and self-centred. I am all for an unlikeable character, but in a romance I want to see growth. I am not convinced that Sora made any significant changes or learned much from her mistakes. I also found that the story wrapped up a little too quickly, and would have liked to see more of what happened after rather than her relationship with Wes.
That being said, I loved the travel aspect of the book, spending time in Amalfi, Italy. The authors set the scene well, making me want to visit again.
This would be a good book for teens who want an escape this season. Thank you to Simon and Schuster Canada for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
May 19, 2026
"Soraya is so close to getting the boy of her dreams to finally pay attention to her—she's sure of it.
She's finally graduated from high school, glowed up, and is ready to show her on-again-off-again, secret situationship Wes what he's missing out on. And when she learns that Wes is heading to Italy on a trip with his fraternity brothers, Sora decides that there's no better place to reignite a romance than the Amalfi Coast! Under the guise of a graduation Euro trip with her friends, Soraya's plan is make memories with her besties during the day, make out with Wes at night, and make sure she comes out of this vacation with the title of Official Girlfriend and Grown College Girlie."
While I wasn't a HUGE fan of Soraya, I did appreciate the growth that she had throughout the book. Anya, Mari, & Wes made the story cute and gave the book a little more backbone too.
All the Lizzie McGuire movie vibes for real! I loved the travel aspect of it and even though I am not a teenager anymore, although I feel that way sometimes, this is such a good book for all kinds of readers alike.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for my copy of this digital ARC! All opinions are my own. 🌍✈️
She's finally graduated from high school, glowed up, and is ready to show her on-again-off-again, secret situationship Wes what he's missing out on. And when she learns that Wes is heading to Italy on a trip with his fraternity brothers, Sora decides that there's no better place to reignite a romance than the Amalfi Coast! Under the guise of a graduation Euro trip with her friends, Soraya's plan is make memories with her besties during the day, make out with Wes at night, and make sure she comes out of this vacation with the title of Official Girlfriend and Grown College Girlie."
While I wasn't a HUGE fan of Soraya, I did appreciate the growth that she had throughout the book. Anya, Mari, & Wes made the story cute and gave the book a little more backbone too.
All the Lizzie McGuire movie vibes for real! I loved the travel aspect of it and even though I am not a teenager anymore, although I feel that way sometimes, this is such a good book for all kinds of readers alike.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for my copy of this digital ARC! All opinions are my own. 🌍✈️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Such a cute Italian adventure that gave me FOMO.
Sora and her 3 sisters embark on their post-high school trip of a life time! But there’s a secret Sora is keeping: she is sneaking off to visit her ex, Wes. 🫣
They end up catching the two together….and friendship drama ensues.
I found this to be a very solid YA book. The primary drama happens about halfway through, rather than waiting for the 75% mark, giving more time for the secondary romance to build. I did feel it was “insta love” - but it’s YA with 18 year olds, so it fits in, IMO.
There was some unexpected lightweight spice, which I didn’t anticipate, and feel it wasn’t entirely necessary for the book.
I did like Sora’s growth throughout the book, although her character could’ve been fleshed out a bit more. We do get to learn quite a bit about Nico, which was nice. I was kind of picturing Marcello’s mom from “Emily in Paris” ✨
No idea what Sora ever saw in Wes, literally the blandest frat boy I’ve ever seen.
TLDR: very cute, quick YA read that’ll make you want to hop on a plane to Italy.
Such a cute Italian adventure that gave me FOMO.
Sora and her 3 sisters embark on their post-high school trip of a life time! But there’s a secret Sora is keeping: she is sneaking off to visit her ex, Wes. 🫣
They end up catching the two together….and friendship drama ensues.
I found this to be a very solid YA book. The primary drama happens about halfway through, rather than waiting for the 75% mark, giving more time for the secondary romance to build. I did feel it was “insta love” - but it’s YA with 18 year olds, so it fits in, IMO.
There was some unexpected lightweight spice, which I didn’t anticipate, and feel it wasn’t entirely necessary for the book.
I did like Sora’s growth throughout the book, although her character could’ve been fleshed out a bit more. We do get to learn quite a bit about Nico, which was nice. I was kind of picturing Marcello’s mom from “Emily in Paris” ✨
No idea what Sora ever saw in Wes, literally the blandest frat boy I’ve ever seen.
TLDR: very cute, quick YA read that’ll make you want to hop on a plane to Italy.
May 5, 2026
Thank you Simon & Schuster for an advanced copy of this book.
This was such a fun read. It brought me back to being a teenager again and all the changes that come after high school graduation.
Soraya was such a relatable FMC. Her making plans because of a boy felt genuine to some of the people I knew growing up. Especially when all her friends were leaving and hoping to hold on to at least one person from her past. She was messy, and flawed but also genuine in her feelings.
Her feelings of being left behind because everyone is leaving was something I remember feeling when I graduated. These moments of panicking and feeling like you’re being left behind while everyone moves one.
The holding on to a boy because of the good moments, rather than looking at the whole picture and realizing how toxic the relationship was.
Her relationships with her friends also felt very real for teenagers about to enter a new chapter in their life. The conflict between them felt honest to them.
There were a few parts of the story that felt a little rushed or were not fully developed. But it didn’t hinder the story. I would have loved to have seen the relationship between Soraya and Nico develop more.
There were also moments that felt a little more mature than the average YA romance book. Near the end there were a few scenes that made it feel a little more NA.
But overall this was a fun, light, coming of age style book.
This was such a fun read. It brought me back to being a teenager again and all the changes that come after high school graduation.
Soraya was such a relatable FMC. Her making plans because of a boy felt genuine to some of the people I knew growing up. Especially when all her friends were leaving and hoping to hold on to at least one person from her past. She was messy, and flawed but also genuine in her feelings.
Her feelings of being left behind because everyone is leaving was something I remember feeling when I graduated. These moments of panicking and feeling like you’re being left behind while everyone moves one.
The holding on to a boy because of the good moments, rather than looking at the whole picture and realizing how toxic the relationship was.
Her relationships with her friends also felt very real for teenagers about to enter a new chapter in their life. The conflict between them felt honest to them.
There were a few parts of the story that felt a little rushed or were not fully developed. But it didn’t hinder the story. I would have loved to have seen the relationship between Soraya and Nico develop more.
There were also moments that felt a little more mature than the average YA romance book. Near the end there were a few scenes that made it feel a little more NA.
But overall this was a fun, light, coming of age style book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I read an advanced copy of this book on NetGalley. The author does a great job presenting engaging dialogue and painting a beautiful but succinct picture of Italy that has me craving all things lemon along with a seaside vacation. While her writing is engaging, I could only give this book 2 stars. My biggest complaint is that this book is marketed toward teens but includes a couple of graphic scenes of a sensitive nature that I would not feel comfortable letting my 15-year-old daughter read. Books like this one are the reason I have to read almost everything before I allow my daughter to enjoy it— too many authors include details that shouldn’t be marketed to minors. In addition to being mis-genred,the heroine was so unlikable. She was selfish, spoiled, and immature, and I am unconvinced she achieved any significant emotional growth by the end of the novel. I also felt the ending didn’t properly address the future of the main relationship. I would consider reading this author again but only if the book was marketed to adults.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
April 9, 2026I’d give *Oh My Affogato* a solid 4 stars—it’s a heartfelt and engaging YA coming-of-age story that really captures that in-between stage of life after high school. The story follows Sora as she travels to the Amalfi Coast with her two best friends, which already sets up such a fun and dreamy backdrop.
What I liked most was how the trip wasn’t just about celebration—it had layers. Sora’s decision to go is partly driven by her plan to reconnect with her on-again, off-again boyfriend Wes, which adds emotional tension and keeps the story moving. Her internal conflict felt relatable, especially that mix of excitement, uncertainty, and lingering attachments that often comes with big life transitions.
The friendships were another highlight—they felt authentic and added both warmth and occasional conflict in a realistic way. While some moments leaned a bit predictable, the setting, character growth, and emotional honesty made it a really enjoyable read overall. Definitely worth picking up if you like travel-filled YA with a bit of romance and self-discovery.
What I liked most was how the trip wasn’t just about celebration—it had layers. Sora’s decision to go is partly driven by her plan to reconnect with her on-again, off-again boyfriend Wes, which adds emotional tension and keeps the story moving. Her internal conflict felt relatable, especially that mix of excitement, uncertainty, and lingering attachments that often comes with big life transitions.
The friendships were another highlight—they felt authentic and added both warmth and occasional conflict in a realistic way. While some moments leaned a bit predictable, the setting, character growth, and emotional honesty made it a really enjoyable read overall. Definitely worth picking up if you like travel-filled YA with a bit of romance and self-discovery.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Soraya's 'hidden agenda' to thwart her girls trip is evident from the start. The multiple ways she pursues to achieve her agenda in the face of the friendships that have anchored her is exasperating. With that said, she's feeling unmoored given her friends' achievements.
Believe that the Author intentionally created situations that support how hyper focused Soraya is on her 'Will'. So, yes, at times that makes her an unlikeable character (at the start and middle of the book). When we see her self-realization, though, that makes the character's growth realistic.
All that said, didn't find the book all that engrossing even with the pivotal scene that has her loyalty being tested of friends vs boys. She rose to occasion and think beyond gestures of Nico, the Reader would have benefited from hearing his voice.
Thank you Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing | Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#OhMyAffogato #NetGalley
Believe that the Author intentionally created situations that support how hyper focused Soraya is on her 'Will'. So, yes, at times that makes her an unlikeable character (at the start and middle of the book). When we see her self-realization, though, that makes the character's growth realistic.
All that said, didn't find the book all that engrossing even with the pivotal scene that has her loyalty being tested of friends vs boys. She rose to occasion and think beyond gestures of Nico, the Reader would have benefited from hearing his voice.
Thank you Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing | Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#OhMyAffogato #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A year ago I was in Italy, and everyday since then I have wished I was still in Italy... so when I came across this book, I thought it sounded like a fun way to get a few days in Italy through the pages. Oh My Affogato! is a fun read for the older teen/young adult crowd (gets a little steamy near the end). Being that I am in my 40's, it was fun reliving the Italian coastline through the eyes of a carefree 18 year old embarking on the adventure of a lifetime. The main positive about book was the Italian setting and it was an easy read, fast enough pace, making it a good choice for reading at the beach. But... the main character, Sora is cringy in her choices and attitude, well actually the more I think about her, I'd put her in the unlikeable category. It's harder to cheer a person on when you don't really connect with or enjoy them. I do actually think I would have liked this book more in my teens, so I'm taking that into consideration.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A month on the Amalfi coast sounds amazing for everyone! Especially 3 recent high school graduates when one is plotting to see her ex boyfriend who will be attending the same college as her in the fall. Despite the numerous times he has let her down, Sora can't help herself going back to him.
Anya and Mari, her two lifelong friends and her get into lots of fights about it and eventually they part ways. This makes it extra sticky as they are sharing a room in a small hotel. Enter Nico, the super sweet, cute, Italian boy who is helping his mom for the summer. He mediates between them.
Despite a hotel that is going under, Nico maintains a positive attitude the entire summer. You cannot help hoping for Sora and Nico to succumb to their tension and test the waters of their relationship. Can she finally give up on Wes and earn back her friend's trust? Come along for an Italian adventure!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC! Add this to your summer reading list!
Anya and Mari, her two lifelong friends and her get into lots of fights about it and eventually they part ways. This makes it extra sticky as they are sharing a room in a small hotel. Enter Nico, the super sweet, cute, Italian boy who is helping his mom for the summer. He mediates between them.
Despite a hotel that is going under, Nico maintains a positive attitude the entire summer. You cannot help hoping for Sora and Nico to succumb to their tension and test the waters of their relationship. Can she finally give up on Wes and earn back her friend's trust? Come along for an Italian adventure!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC! Add this to your summer reading list!
May 15, 2026
Oh My Affogato (or what I have been referring to as Vacationship) is a classic young adult romance. Sora is 18, and she is taking a big trip to Italy. Sora can easily be seen as annoying, and I hated her at first. BUT you have to remember that she is 18 and her actions as an 18-year-old are VERY normal. This story also had a lot of Sora telling us her every thought, which isn't what I usually look for in books. Sometimes I excuse it in young adult books since I am not the intended audience. My biggest problem with this book is the romance. Her issues with Wes lasted a while. I think that plot line was important. Probably the most important part of the book, because it leads to Sora finding her self-worth. BUT this story is so short that it rushes the romance. I loved Nico's part in helping Sora, but the romance was too intense, too fast. I would have been happy to see the blossoming of their friendship, the banter, and their flirting. The love confession and the fade to black scene NOT NEEDED. This just furthers the fact that Sora is 18 and hasn't learned very much.
April 17, 2026
What a fun summer book. This book with Soraya going on a three month trip with her best friends was so entertaining, I read it within a day. It also made me want to go back to Italy myself. I liked how in the beginning we see them already struggling with trains and such. Such a real view of abroad vacations. I especially loved the trio of friends and how they are trying to enjoy before they split to go their respective universities. Now, Soraya following that boytoy was disappointing but very fun. Very intriguing to see those ups and downs but the best part is when she is with Nico. What an amazing summer romance. Nico is the definition of nice Italian guy and Soraya really should’ve noticed him earlier. But I loved how they became friends first. The rift between friends was also an emotional part of the plot. I think it made this book more real because vacations never go exactly as planned. But I loved the book, definitely an amazing summer read
April 18, 2026
I had a fun time reading about this fantastic 3 month European vacation between three best friends before they go their separate ways for college. Sora, Anya and Mari are starting off their vacation in Italy and from the time of getting to the airport in their home state there are a lot of little hiccups but those lead them to one of the best experiences ever.
There are a lot of ups and downs between the friends and a couple other characters. There’s definitely a lot of miscommunication and to be honest the FMC is pretty insufferable a lot of the time but not as much as one of the boys from her hometown that she meets up with while in Italy.
Nico the MMC is an absolute dream of a character, kind and sweet and funny and genuine he is a breath of fresh air in the story.
This says it’s for kids 12-17 but there’s no way I’d be giving this book to a kid under 14 and even then only if we had a good talk about sex and drinking beforehand
There are a lot of ups and downs between the friends and a couple other characters. There’s definitely a lot of miscommunication and to be honest the FMC is pretty insufferable a lot of the time but not as much as one of the boys from her hometown that she meets up with while in Italy.
Nico the MMC is an absolute dream of a character, kind and sweet and funny and genuine he is a breath of fresh air in the story.
This says it’s for kids 12-17 but there’s no way I’d be giving this book to a kid under 14 and even then only if we had a good talk about sex and drinking beforehand
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3⭐️ Reading this book was like taking a mini trip to Amalfi! I felt like I was right there, enjoying a granita on the sunny Italian coast. The setting was definitely the highlight, transporting me straight to Italy’s coastline and its picturesque little towns.
This coming-of-age story follows Soraya as she navigates her love life, her future, and her friendships while getting her first real taste of adventure and independence. Sora’s actions weren’t perfect, but let’s be honest, that’s what being young is all about. Being messy, making mistakes, and learning from them, and Sora goes through all of that. I liked the side characters, Sora’s best friends, and our MMC Nico, the sweet, kind, and charming local.
The most relatable part of this book was how vacations never go as planned, and it brought back so many memories for me. I’m convinced this could make a cute YA romance movie!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for the ARC!
This coming-of-age story follows Soraya as she navigates her love life, her future, and her friendships while getting her first real taste of adventure and independence. Sora’s actions weren’t perfect, but let’s be honest, that’s what being young is all about. Being messy, making mistakes, and learning from them, and Sora goes through all of that. I liked the side characters, Sora’s best friends, and our MMC Nico, the sweet, kind, and charming local.
The most relatable part of this book was how vacations never go as planned, and it brought back so many memories for me. I’m convinced this could make a cute YA romance movie!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I finished this in one sitting! It's a perfect low-stakes, sweet YA romance for the summer.
Soraya is freshly graduated, 18 and facing major changes in her life. She is not perfect, somewhat self-centred and self-destructive. And the best part of this book, is seeing her growth. She's young and bound to make mistakes. She even says it herself; she needs to make her own decisions and be able to realize what's best for herself in her own time.
Nico, my sweet, charming Italian adonis. He's such a calming, steady presence in Soraya's chaos.
I'm not gonna lie, I was here for the drama. The big blowups and friendship woes. It felt realistic for their age group, and I liked how it wasn't resolved in five seconds. The reunions are sweet (and spicy) but the hard conversations happen after necessary personal revelations.
Thank you Simon and Schuster Canada for the ARC copy, all opinions are my own!
Soraya is freshly graduated, 18 and facing major changes in her life. She is not perfect, somewhat self-centred and self-destructive. And the best part of this book, is seeing her growth. She's young and bound to make mistakes. She even says it herself; she needs to make her own decisions and be able to realize what's best for herself in her own time.
Nico, my sweet, charming Italian adonis. He's such a calming, steady presence in Soraya's chaos.
I'm not gonna lie, I was here for the drama. The big blowups and friendship woes. It felt realistic for their age group, and I liked how it wasn't resolved in five seconds. The reunions are sweet (and spicy) but the hard conversations happen after necessary personal revelations.
Thank you Simon and Schuster Canada for the ARC copy, all opinions are my own!
May 6, 2026
Thank you so much to Simon & Schuster Books for the copy 💕
This book felt so refreshing, full of summer love, friendship, and a fun girls’ trip vibe ✨ I really enjoyed it because, let’s be honest, who hasn’t dreamed of a summer romance? (I know I have🤭)
That said, Sora did frustrate me at times. I understand wanting to spend time with your crush, but the way she handled her plan to be with Wes wasn’t it… her decisions ended up affecting her friends, and the lies became a bigger issue than expected 😬
We also have Nico, an Italian guy who shows interest in Sora, but it takes a few chapters to really notice it or at least it did for me. I was fully convinced things with Wes were going to be perfect and romantic😩
Overall, I loved the vibes. The girls were funny, dynamic, and just wanted to enjoy their time together💗 Even if Sora was a little love blinded at times, the story was still a fun ride.
Now I just want to go to Italy and have my own adventure like Sora, Anya, and Mari🥰✨
This book felt so refreshing, full of summer love, friendship, and a fun girls’ trip vibe ✨ I really enjoyed it because, let’s be honest, who hasn’t dreamed of a summer romance? (I know I have🤭)
That said, Sora did frustrate me at times. I understand wanting to spend time with your crush, but the way she handled her plan to be with Wes wasn’t it… her decisions ended up affecting her friends, and the lies became a bigger issue than expected 😬
We also have Nico, an Italian guy who shows interest in Sora, but it takes a few chapters to really notice it or at least it did for me. I was fully convinced things with Wes were going to be perfect and romantic😩
Overall, I loved the vibes. The girls were funny, dynamic, and just wanted to enjoy their time together💗 Even if Sora was a little love blinded at times, the story was still a fun ride.
Now I just want to go to Italy and have my own adventure like Sora, Anya, and Mari🥰✨
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
2.5⭐️
2.5⭐
Seeing the synopsis and how it's recommended for those who loved Emily in Paris and Love and Gelato, got me excited. However, I was a little disappointed, the book was average for me. The idea of vacationing in Italy and Europe is such a fun concept. With Soraya and Wes' story, it just annoyed me the entire time. The first 60% was pretty slow for me as well. The fight with Soraya and her friends was also a bit dramatic. And honestly, if I were her friends, I would be so annoyed of Soraya's motives for going to Italy and missing someone's graduation for her to be sneaking out with her situationship behind my back. Nico was great, I was hoping to get more about their relationship at the end of the book. Overall, it was a mid book for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the e-arc!
2.5⭐
Seeing the synopsis and how it's recommended for those who loved Emily in Paris and Love and Gelato, got me excited. However, I was a little disappointed, the book was average for me. The idea of vacationing in Italy and Europe is such a fun concept. With Soraya and Wes' story, it just annoyed me the entire time. The first 60% was pretty slow for me as well. The fight with Soraya and her friends was also a bit dramatic. And honestly, if I were her friends, I would be so annoyed of Soraya's motives for going to Italy and missing someone's graduation for her to be sneaking out with her situationship behind my back. Nico was great, I was hoping to get more about their relationship at the end of the book. Overall, it was a mid book for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the e-arc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book.
The Amalfi Coast setting gave major vacation vibes and the beautiful setting was brought to light. The MFC was a little annoying.
The romance was messy and unpredictable. Just when it feels like things are going one way, the story shifts, especially with the contrast between her situationship with Wes and the sweet Italian boy she meets along the way.
This book highlights how love and life can’t really be planned, and sometimes the best moments come unexpectedly. Slow start and a little hard to get into at first. My main issue was, this says it’s for ages 13 up? As a mother there was language multiple times and an open door sex scene towards the end.. I’m not comfortable with the content for that young of an audience.
I believe this should at least be 17+
The Amalfi Coast setting gave major vacation vibes and the beautiful setting was brought to light. The MFC was a little annoying.
The romance was messy and unpredictable. Just when it feels like things are going one way, the story shifts, especially with the contrast between her situationship with Wes and the sweet Italian boy she meets along the way.
This book highlights how love and life can’t really be planned, and sometimes the best moments come unexpectedly. Slow start and a little hard to get into at first. My main issue was, this says it’s for ages 13 up? As a mother there was language multiple times and an open door sex scene towards the end.. I’m not comfortable with the content for that young of an audience.
I believe this should at least be 17+
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