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Foodie Romance Journeys #4
The Ice Cream Parlour
"A twintastic read full of heart and family affairs. This book will make your heart melt quicker than the Amalfi sun could melt your Garibaldi and Mascarpone gelato." THE BLOSSOM TWINS
"A sundae of sensational storytelling." HEIDI CATHERINE
Giovanna Tonioli is a successful stockbroker with a famous sports star boyfriend, but things aren't as sweet as they seem. When life in the city of Bath goes from Vanilla to Rocky Road, she takes herself off to Italy for an 'Eat Pray Love' style tour of all things gelateria. What she doesn't expect to find on her travels is one smooth, hot dollop of temptation that she just can't shake.
How will her spiteful twin sister react when Giovanna returns to open a rival ice cream parlour? Will Natalia get her just desserts? Or will things become even stickier? All's fair in love, war and ice cream. Isn't it?
*Marian Keyes meets Paulo Coelho meets Nigella*
The Ice Cream Parlour is a mouthwatering tale of fate, family, love and jealousy - with a delectable drizzle of alchemy besides.
"A sundae of sensational storytelling." HEIDI CATHERINE
Giovanna Tonioli is a successful stockbroker with a famous sports star boyfriend, but things aren't as sweet as they seem. When life in the city of Bath goes from Vanilla to Rocky Road, she takes herself off to Italy for an 'Eat Pray Love' style tour of all things gelateria. What she doesn't expect to find on her travels is one smooth, hot dollop of temptation that she just can't shake.
How will her spiteful twin sister react when Giovanna returns to open a rival ice cream parlour? Will Natalia get her just desserts? Or will things become even stickier? All's fair in love, war and ice cream. Isn't it?
*Marian Keyes meets Paulo Coelho meets Nigella*
The Ice Cream Parlour is a mouthwatering tale of fate, family, love and jealousy - with a delectable drizzle of alchemy besides.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
259 pages, ebook
Published May 15, 2019
105 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Isabella May
22 books129 followersIsabella May lives in (mostly) sunny Andalusia, Spain with her husband, daughter and son, creatively inspired by the mountains and the sea. She grew up on Glastonbury's ley lines and loves to feature her quirky English hometown in her stories.
After a degree in Modern Languages and European Studies at UWE, Bristol (and a year working abroad in Bordeaux and Stuttgart), Isabella bagged an extremely jammy and fascinating job in children's publishing... selling foreign rights for novelty, board, pop-up and non-fiction books all over the world; in every language from Icelandic to Korean, Bahasa Indonesian to Papiamento!
All of which has fuelled her curiosity and love of international food and travel - both feature extensively in her cross-genre novels, fused with a dollop of romcom, and a sprinkle of magical realism.
Isabella is also a Level 4 Pranic Healer and a stillbirth mum.
You can follow her Foodie Romance Journey series at the following hang-outs:
www.isabellamayauthor.com
Twitter - @IsabellaMayBks
Instagram - @isabella_may_author
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/IsabellaMayA...
After a degree in Modern Languages and European Studies at UWE, Bristol (and a year working abroad in Bordeaux and Stuttgart), Isabella bagged an extremely jammy and fascinating job in children's publishing... selling foreign rights for novelty, board, pop-up and non-fiction books all over the world; in every language from Icelandic to Korean, Bahasa Indonesian to Papiamento!
All of which has fuelled her curiosity and love of international food and travel - both feature extensively in her cross-genre novels, fused with a dollop of romcom, and a sprinkle of magical realism.
Isabella is also a Level 4 Pranic Healer and a stillbirth mum.
You can follow her Foodie Romance Journey series at the following hang-outs:
www.isabellamayauthor.com
Twitter - @IsabellaMayBks
Instagram - @isabella_may_author
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/IsabellaMayA...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 24, 2019
This is the fourth book by Isabella I've read and it may just be my favourite (though I am still very partial to River Jackson in The Cocktail Bar!). In this book, we are taken to a series of fabulous destinations that are beautifully described, as is the food. Ice-cream plays a massive role in this book and the mixtures of flavours was spell-binding. However this is not a mere travel guide or foodie guide to Italy, this is a tale that is bittersweet about self-discovery, the quest for truth and revenge. I read this at a rapid rate, enjoying the fascinating characters and riveting storyline. Highly recommended.
April 23, 2019
Warning: Don't read this book without a mountain of ice-cream or food around you, every time I picked this book up my stomach was rumbling within seconds of losing myself within the pages!
I'm really not sure what to make of this book or how to describe it, but what I can safely say is that I definitely enjoyed it.
The opening feels as though the story is part autobiographical, still fiction, but had a this is my life to date sort of feel to it, with assorted key instances from Giovanna's childhood and early life to date. The writing was lyrical in style and flowed wonderfully.
Then at the point that Giovanna's boyfriend of 10 years is caught cheating, with the one person you would like to think would never do such a think to Giovanna, we are caught up with the present day, and the next section of the book was definitely my favourite.
It involved our heroine travelling around Italy for a few months, and sampling gelato and ice cream and coming up with flavour combinations that sounded mouthwateringly delicious for her own parlour, Not to mention the Italian men that try to chat her up!
We also have parts of the book featuring Kelly, the new age best friend, who persuades Giovanna to try something that I was really sceptical about, but I found it quite interesting the way it was all explained.
And then the finale felt like another genre again, full of action, pulled together assorted threads and was impossible to put down.
In between all of that there was ice-cream. Lots and lots of ice cream. If Isabella May ever decides to stop writing books, or wants a new career on the sidelines then she needs to make The Bath Ice Cream Parlour into a reality. Who wouldn't want to visit a place with 100 flavours, all that sound wonderful, with fabulous concepts behind them.
The travel elements in Italy all seemed well researched too, and a lot of it matches up to either bits I've seen myself, or what I've imagined the country to be like from other fiction. I loved all the places that were visited and just wish I had been Giovanna's assistant or something to experience it with her!
This is the second book I've read by the author and this is definitely my favourite of the two. It's a bit unusual in places, if feels as thought it could be a mix of many genres, but its also got great characters, fabulous descriptions and most importantly, it has ever flavour of ice cream you could ever imagine!! And what more could you want from a book simply titled The Ice Cream Parlour?!
Thank you to Isabaella May for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I'm really not sure what to make of this book or how to describe it, but what I can safely say is that I definitely enjoyed it.
The opening feels as though the story is part autobiographical, still fiction, but had a this is my life to date sort of feel to it, with assorted key instances from Giovanna's childhood and early life to date. The writing was lyrical in style and flowed wonderfully.
Then at the point that Giovanna's boyfriend of 10 years is caught cheating, with the one person you would like to think would never do such a think to Giovanna, we are caught up with the present day, and the next section of the book was definitely my favourite.
It involved our heroine travelling around Italy for a few months, and sampling gelato and ice cream and coming up with flavour combinations that sounded mouthwateringly delicious for her own parlour, Not to mention the Italian men that try to chat her up!
We also have parts of the book featuring Kelly, the new age best friend, who persuades Giovanna to try something that I was really sceptical about, but I found it quite interesting the way it was all explained.
And then the finale felt like another genre again, full of action, pulled together assorted threads and was impossible to put down.
In between all of that there was ice-cream. Lots and lots of ice cream. If Isabella May ever decides to stop writing books, or wants a new career on the sidelines then she needs to make The Bath Ice Cream Parlour into a reality. Who wouldn't want to visit a place with 100 flavours, all that sound wonderful, with fabulous concepts behind them.
The travel elements in Italy all seemed well researched too, and a lot of it matches up to either bits I've seen myself, or what I've imagined the country to be like from other fiction. I loved all the places that were visited and just wish I had been Giovanna's assistant or something to experience it with her!
This is the second book I've read by the author and this is definitely my favourite of the two. It's a bit unusual in places, if feels as thought it could be a mix of many genres, but its also got great characters, fabulous descriptions and most importantly, it has ever flavour of ice cream you could ever imagine!! And what more could you want from a book simply titled The Ice Cream Parlour?!
Thank you to Isabaella May for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
June 25, 2019
My goodness this is delicious….honestly, I will probably say that I lot through out this review, but there isn’t another term I can think of another word do describe it. I have to be honest that this is the first book I have read by Isabella May, it definitely will not be the last, this book is gorgeous as well as so delicious. It is a feast for the taste buds, especially if you are like me and have a ridiculously sweet tooth.
This is essentially a story about a young woman who sets out to find herself, I love the ‘Eat Pray Love’ vibe that it has, and along the way she not only discovers some delicious Ice Creams and makes some great friends her life becomes clear. Giovanna who after finding out that her boyfriend of ten years has cheated on her in the worse way possible, instead of doing what we all would do and hide under the duvet with the tub of Ben and Jerry’s and a whole host of Jaffa cakes while watching re-runs of soppy films, Giovanna sets off on a trip to Italy.
I felt the first part as great as it was, lacked the sparkle that the part where Giovanna was in Italy had, that part of the book was beautifully engaging, it is was shiny and new, like a new penny. The time that Giovanna is touring Italy is a piece of brilliant writing, I loved the descriptions in each scene, it made the story play out like a movie in my mind, you could see the vivid colours, the scents and most of all the tastes. I am a very visual person and I do find that a more visualised and descriptive scene really pulls me into the story and the characters far more and Ms. May has written a mesmerizing story that will be loved by many readers.
I really, really like this book, it has a warmth and wit about it that steals the readers heart….not to mention their taste buds. The writing is fluid, it flows with ease and confidence that captures the readers attention from the off. You genuinely care about and cheer the character’s on, I got a real sense that Ms. May has put her whole heart into this story, there is a real passion and emotion in the story, the characters and the journey they go on, it’s real and engaging.
Overall this is a great story, fabulous writing, characters that you can both love and hate, a definite winner in my eyes.
This is essentially a story about a young woman who sets out to find herself, I love the ‘Eat Pray Love’ vibe that it has, and along the way she not only discovers some delicious Ice Creams and makes some great friends her life becomes clear. Giovanna who after finding out that her boyfriend of ten years has cheated on her in the worse way possible, instead of doing what we all would do and hide under the duvet with the tub of Ben and Jerry’s and a whole host of Jaffa cakes while watching re-runs of soppy films, Giovanna sets off on a trip to Italy.
I felt the first part as great as it was, lacked the sparkle that the part where Giovanna was in Italy had, that part of the book was beautifully engaging, it is was shiny and new, like a new penny. The time that Giovanna is touring Italy is a piece of brilliant writing, I loved the descriptions in each scene, it made the story play out like a movie in my mind, you could see the vivid colours, the scents and most of all the tastes. I am a very visual person and I do find that a more visualised and descriptive scene really pulls me into the story and the characters far more and Ms. May has written a mesmerizing story that will be loved by many readers.
I really, really like this book, it has a warmth and wit about it that steals the readers heart….not to mention their taste buds. The writing is fluid, it flows with ease and confidence that captures the readers attention from the off. You genuinely care about and cheer the character’s on, I got a real sense that Ms. May has put her whole heart into this story, there is a real passion and emotion in the story, the characters and the journey they go on, it’s real and engaging.
Overall this is a great story, fabulous writing, characters that you can both love and hate, a definite winner in my eyes.
June 15, 2019
This novel has a delightful mix of everything; love, family, travel, character driven story and of course....the most delicious sounding gelato. How can you not be tempted?
The first part of the novel concentrates on the childhood of Giovanna and how she has to leave behind her beloved Capri and move to Bath, England at a young age. Isabella May beautifully captures the angst that this move has on our main protagonist and how she feels.
The story then moves onto Giovanna as a young adult who now has a high powered job and a sought after boyfriend but all is not what it seem and Giovanna finds her self betrayed in the most awful way by her parents, sister and the man she thought was the love of her life. During this part of the novel i became frustrated at Gi for putting up with so much and not speaking out. As a character, she is so endearing and instantly becomes part of you and I found myself wanting to step in and give the people around her a piece of my mind. It felt as though I was going through the heartache with her.
It's after this betrayal that we finally get to meet the real Gi and we take a beautiful journey with her to start a new life which involves travel and many delectable and unique flavours of ice-cream. Although not always smooth sailing, this part of the story has an fantastically uplifting vibe and will put a smile on anyone's face.
Ms May really brings the settings of her novels to life in a vibrant and vivid manner and this novel is no different. From the setting of Capri and other locations in Italy (my absolutely favourite destination) to Bath, you are pulled into each location and can almost see, hear and smell it.
Packed with beautiful destinations and delicious ice-cream, this story is a must summer read.
The first part of the novel concentrates on the childhood of Giovanna and how she has to leave behind her beloved Capri and move to Bath, England at a young age. Isabella May beautifully captures the angst that this move has on our main protagonist and how she feels.
The story then moves onto Giovanna as a young adult who now has a high powered job and a sought after boyfriend but all is not what it seem and Giovanna finds her self betrayed in the most awful way by her parents, sister and the man she thought was the love of her life. During this part of the novel i became frustrated at Gi for putting up with so much and not speaking out. As a character, she is so endearing and instantly becomes part of you and I found myself wanting to step in and give the people around her a piece of my mind. It felt as though I was going through the heartache with her.
It's after this betrayal that we finally get to meet the real Gi and we take a beautiful journey with her to start a new life which involves travel and many delectable and unique flavours of ice-cream. Although not always smooth sailing, this part of the story has an fantastically uplifting vibe and will put a smile on anyone's face.
Ms May really brings the settings of her novels to life in a vibrant and vivid manner and this novel is no different. From the setting of Capri and other locations in Italy (my absolutely favourite destination) to Bath, you are pulled into each location and can almost see, hear and smell it.
Packed with beautiful destinations and delicious ice-cream, this story is a must summer read.
December 27, 2020
This is the first book I've read by Isabella May and I loved it! It's quirky, funny, sad, and even crazy in parts, but it all pulls together to make this a wonderful way to escape reality for a few hours.
As you read, you go through a whole range of emotions - Giovanna's family stirred up feelings of rage and helplessness, and handsome rugby-player boyfriend Jeremy made me want to punch him, so I was thankful for some of the nicer characters!
May's descriptions of Italy are spot on as well - I live in the north of Italy, and I was amazed to find my own thoughts about Italians, and in particular Milan, reflected in the story.
And what can I say about the main feature of the story, the ice cream? Each description is a mouth-watering explosion of flavours that you can actually taste while you're reading - imagine a mix of Joanne Harris and Nigella Lawson, with their sensual narratives of food taking you into a world that makes your senses tingle with delight.
This is a story of self-discovery that takes you from Italy to England and back to Italy again, with hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered and a love of ice cream bringing together a group of strangers for an unexpected ending. I loved May's writing and can't wait to read more of her books! Highly recommend.
As you read, you go through a whole range of emotions - Giovanna's family stirred up feelings of rage and helplessness, and handsome rugby-player boyfriend Jeremy made me want to punch him, so I was thankful for some of the nicer characters!
May's descriptions of Italy are spot on as well - I live in the north of Italy, and I was amazed to find my own thoughts about Italians, and in particular Milan, reflected in the story.
And what can I say about the main feature of the story, the ice cream? Each description is a mouth-watering explosion of flavours that you can actually taste while you're reading - imagine a mix of Joanne Harris and Nigella Lawson, with their sensual narratives of food taking you into a world that makes your senses tingle with delight.
This is a story of self-discovery that takes you from Italy to England and back to Italy again, with hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered and a love of ice cream bringing together a group of strangers for an unexpected ending. I loved May's writing and can't wait to read more of her books! Highly recommend.
May 27, 2019
A sundae of sensational storytelling! Like all of Isabella May's books, this one is packed with fun and energy in every carefully crafted line. Even the darker moments feel alive and vibrant. I really enjoyed the complicated relationships between these characters and the settings were divine. Without giving away the ending, I found it really refreshing that not all of the main character's troubles were resolved in a happily-ever-after kind of way (although the ending is still very sunny and full of hope!) It felt more true to life this way. Highly recommend you dive headfirst into this delicious book. But be warned, it's going to make you want to eat ice-cream!
July 13, 2019
Not to read on an empty stomach!! I've come to the conclusion that Ms May not only has an incredible talent in writing foodtastic stories with plenty of romance, twists and turns, but needs to open up her own restaurant!! Gordon Ramsay watch out! This little gem of a writer has the most incredible ability of igniting the taste buds with words! Anyway, were was I? Apart from devouring a tub of ice cream? There is a true mix of vibrant characters in this lovely, feel-good story. A story that, in Isabella's style, offers deeper messages about love, family, relationships and self-worth. Highly recommend, but not on an empty stomach!!
July 1, 2019
Full of colour, travel and most importantly the most delicious descriptions of ice-cream, this book was a delight to all the senses. I wanted to eat a lot of sweet things while reading it!
The story of how Giovanna copes with a huge upheaval in her life along with the virtual tour of Italy was a treat.
A light, refreshing, fun read.
The story of how Giovanna copes with a huge upheaval in her life along with the virtual tour of Italy was a treat.
A light, refreshing, fun read.
July 21, 2019
The ice cream parlour by Isabella May.
How will her spiteful twin sister react when Giovanna returns to open a rival ice cream parlour? Will Natalia get her just desserts? Or will things become even stickier? All's fair in love, war and ice cream. Isn't it?
This was a delightful read. WARNING will make you crave ice cream. This is my first book by this author. I loved it. It was different. 5*.
How will her spiteful twin sister react when Giovanna returns to open a rival ice cream parlour? Will Natalia get her just desserts? Or will things become even stickier? All's fair in love, war and ice cream. Isn't it?
This was a delightful read. WARNING will make you crave ice cream. This is my first book by this author. I loved it. It was different. 5*.
May 15, 2019
I've been a fan of Isabella's work for some time now and I was disappointed when I heard no one wanted to pick up book 4, the gelato one. A few weeks ago, Isabella announced that she would self publish it and I'm so glad she did. She offered to send me an ARC when I missed out on joining the blog tour which filled up in 24 hours. Of course I accepted, but I had no idea what I was getting into.
If you've ever eaten real Italian gelato, you probably know what I'm talking about. It's May, but it feels like early March. Low temperatures and lots of rain. Not really the weather for eating ice cream. Especially in my case.
I'm a weird one (and proud to be). I don't know if it's really a thing or not, but I react strongly to the cold. It's partially because of my illness (cold weather causes pains), it's also something else. Whenever my husband opens the freezer and something scrapes the ice on the cooling elements, I get shivers all over my body. The same goes for people biting ice cream. When I see or hear that, I get cold. You can imagine I was cold often reading about the delicious gelato flavours Giovanna comes up with.
Isabella has a gift for writing food related stories. You only have to look at the titles to know how big the role is of those dishes. They're a character themselves and the main characters, Giovanna in this case, have an intimate relationship with them.
Halfway through the book I was thinking, when is the movie coming out? Giovanna was traveling through Italy and she visited places I've been, and I instantly wanted to go back. I miss the food, and the weather. I don't miss the men. People always look at me weird when I say I don't like Italian men. Read this book and you'll know why. While I hadn't been conned, I felt that Italian men often crossed lines they weren't supposed to, and thought it was completely acceptable. (Yes, I know that not all men are like that, but still. I'm cautious around Italian men.)
Giovanna's journey is relatable on so many levels. Maybe not literally, but I'm sure everyone knows what it's like when something you love is taken away by someone close to you. Or when you finally let go of other people's expectations and do what you love. I did. That's why the character of Giovanna will stay with me for a long time. Nellie's advice on soulmates is another thing I can relate to. I won't spoil it here, so just read it.
This isn't your standard romantic novel. It's about more than just love and relationships. When you think the story is over, you're pulled into another layer, and another. The fast pace in the second half of the book and the interesting characters are sure to keep you reading.
The Ice Cream Parlour receives five stars. How could I not? There's so much to love in there. An adventure that'll keep you reading. Definitely my recommended read for your summer holiday. Buy ice cream and read it. It'll increase the immersion tenfold.
If you've ever eaten real Italian gelato, you probably know what I'm talking about. It's May, but it feels like early March. Low temperatures and lots of rain. Not really the weather for eating ice cream. Especially in my case.
I'm a weird one (and proud to be). I don't know if it's really a thing or not, but I react strongly to the cold. It's partially because of my illness (cold weather causes pains), it's also something else. Whenever my husband opens the freezer and something scrapes the ice on the cooling elements, I get shivers all over my body. The same goes for people biting ice cream. When I see or hear that, I get cold. You can imagine I was cold often reading about the delicious gelato flavours Giovanna comes up with.
Isabella has a gift for writing food related stories. You only have to look at the titles to know how big the role is of those dishes. They're a character themselves and the main characters, Giovanna in this case, have an intimate relationship with them.
Halfway through the book I was thinking, when is the movie coming out? Giovanna was traveling through Italy and she visited places I've been, and I instantly wanted to go back. I miss the food, and the weather. I don't miss the men. People always look at me weird when I say I don't like Italian men. Read this book and you'll know why. While I hadn't been conned, I felt that Italian men often crossed lines they weren't supposed to, and thought it was completely acceptable. (Yes, I know that not all men are like that, but still. I'm cautious around Italian men.)
Giovanna's journey is relatable on so many levels. Maybe not literally, but I'm sure everyone knows what it's like when something you love is taken away by someone close to you. Or when you finally let go of other people's expectations and do what you love. I did. That's why the character of Giovanna will stay with me for a long time. Nellie's advice on soulmates is another thing I can relate to. I won't spoil it here, so just read it.
This isn't your standard romantic novel. It's about more than just love and relationships. When you think the story is over, you're pulled into another layer, and another. The fast pace in the second half of the book and the interesting characters are sure to keep you reading.
The Ice Cream Parlour receives five stars. How could I not? There's so much to love in there. An adventure that'll keep you reading. Definitely my recommended read for your summer holiday. Buy ice cream and read it. It'll increase the immersion tenfold.
June 18, 2019
If ice cream's your thing - and why wouldn't it be? - then this book is perfect for you.
As the first book I've read by Isabella May, this one sets a very high bar. It's an imaginative and creative story - and I'm not just referring to the fantabulous range of drool-inducing gelato on offer.
It's a mesh of genres and definitely not a typical romantic comedy; it has almost as many layers as the ice cream parlour has flavours.
This is Giovanna's (Gi) story, and begins when she and her twin, Natalia, are living in Capri with their parents who run a gelateria. Out of the blue, the family (Papa) says they're moving to England (you might start to get a little suspicious of his reasons, but, of course, he's not going to tell you ;) ) Destination: Bath where they will open up a new gelateria. (As you can see, this is not the usual way of things, and Bath, while no doubt a beautiful city, is not Capri by any stretch of the imagination.)
It is in Bath that most of the sibling rivalry comes to the fore, particularly when Giovanna (who always helps her parents out in the shop) learns that her (much lazier) sister, Natalia will be the only heir. Naturally disappointed and hurt, Gi goes on to have other plans and a trip back to Italy reinforces her ideas. She is determined to show everyone that she and gelato are meant to be together!
Relationships come and go for Giovanna, but her passion never fades. While alienated from her family, new friends (Matt, Kelly, Flo, Nellie) keep her motivated and interesting. There is the inevitable Mafia connection, but it only adds to the mystery that threads through the story from beginning to end.
The author's writing is witty and current, with plenty of humour, primarily in the form of Giovanna's sarcasm which is always sharp. The customers in The Ice Cream Parlour provide plenty of interest, with side stories that all seem to connect nicely come the end. I'm not convinced every subplot works. In fact, I feel the regression scenes are quite laboured as though the author is forcing the point a bit too firmly (the point being that the sisters lived many lives before together where roles reversed in each period)
But, getting back to the crux of the story - Gi's Italian trip is a travel guide all by itself, the ice cream flavours she concocts are inspired, creative and occasionally a tad crazy, but succeed in adding personality to the Parlour and delight the ever eager customers.
The romance element of the story (for Giovanna) is not rushed, and you might even think that poor girl will miss out again (after the sham that was Mr Smug Jeremy!) but do not despair - the author has it all under control. I Love it when that happens ;)
Overall a fun read with a bit of everything thrown into the blender, creating magical flavours and extraordinary characters.
As the first book I've read by Isabella May, this one sets a very high bar. It's an imaginative and creative story - and I'm not just referring to the fantabulous range of drool-inducing gelato on offer.
It's a mesh of genres and definitely not a typical romantic comedy; it has almost as many layers as the ice cream parlour has flavours.
This is Giovanna's (Gi) story, and begins when she and her twin, Natalia, are living in Capri with their parents who run a gelateria. Out of the blue, the family (Papa) says they're moving to England (you might start to get a little suspicious of his reasons, but, of course, he's not going to tell you ;) ) Destination: Bath where they will open up a new gelateria. (As you can see, this is not the usual way of things, and Bath, while no doubt a beautiful city, is not Capri by any stretch of the imagination.)
It is in Bath that most of the sibling rivalry comes to the fore, particularly when Giovanna (who always helps her parents out in the shop) learns that her (much lazier) sister, Natalia will be the only heir. Naturally disappointed and hurt, Gi goes on to have other plans and a trip back to Italy reinforces her ideas. She is determined to show everyone that she and gelato are meant to be together!
Relationships come and go for Giovanna, but her passion never fades. While alienated from her family, new friends (Matt, Kelly, Flo, Nellie) keep her motivated and interesting. There is the inevitable Mafia connection, but it only adds to the mystery that threads through the story from beginning to end.
The author's writing is witty and current, with plenty of humour, primarily in the form of Giovanna's sarcasm which is always sharp. The customers in The Ice Cream Parlour provide plenty of interest, with side stories that all seem to connect nicely come the end. I'm not convinced every subplot works. In fact, I feel the regression scenes are quite laboured as though the author is forcing the point a bit too firmly (the point being that the sisters lived many lives before together where roles reversed in each period)
But, getting back to the crux of the story - Gi's Italian trip is a travel guide all by itself, the ice cream flavours she concocts are inspired, creative and occasionally a tad crazy, but succeed in adding personality to the Parlour and delight the ever eager customers.
The romance element of the story (for Giovanna) is not rushed, and you might even think that poor girl will miss out again (after the sham that was Mr Smug Jeremy!) but do not despair - the author has it all under control. I Love it when that happens ;)
Overall a fun read with a bit of everything thrown into the blender, creating magical flavours and extraordinary characters.
June 10, 2019
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
In the beginning, it feels as though Giovanna is a modern day Cinderella, trying to make her way in spite of her family. The noted black sheep, there’s constant struggle within her to do her very best for her family, yet distant herself. Thrown into the scenario is her lothario boyfriend, a man she is madly in love with, but doesn’t give her the respect she deserves. With so much discord, it’s no wonder she chooses to leave behind the mess and chaos and embark on a soul-searching, taste testing journey in Italy, a place where she attempts to find herself.
I’m a self-professed lover of all things ice cream, but I was blown away by the wide range of flavors and creations that Giovanna indulges in. I’d never heard of so many of the flavors and textures and even the colors that are presented, an important vein that pumps life blood into The Ice Cream Parlour. With a background for delectables, there is obvious passion, and it shows in every bite that Giovanna takes. Her reputation and pride are on the line, in opening up her own parlour, but where the lines blur are in the motivations behind it. Are those motives pure, or is it a way to stick it to those who have hurt her?
There’s a large part of the novel that feels a little like the French movie He Loves Me… He Loves Me Not. Initially, the story is shown from only one perspective, like in the case of Giovanna. This enables us to side completely with her. Yet midway through, there’s a unique rewind into the past, now showcasing the perspective from a completely new vantage point, turning the reader’s ideas and opinions completely on its head. Who’s side are we on, now? It got me thinking on how past hurts, even when they’re from long ago and deep seeded, can often have a larger influence on the choices made today and how ultimately, there really isn’t a clear-cut wrong or right answer when family is involved.
The backdrop is steeped in Italian landscape, an almost cinematographic view through internal dialogue. While I’ve never been, I felt like I was right there with Giovanna while she traveled to Tuscany, Lake Como, Milan, and more. Even the experiences she has in Bath made me want to venture out to the UK. An undercurrent plot to all of this is an interesting twist to the story, the kind of dealings her family has been involved in since she was a child, always lurking in the dark, coming to fruition when she least expects it, but more than expects it. With so many distinctive events going on, The Ice Cream Parlour proved to be a delightful read!
In the beginning, it feels as though Giovanna is a modern day Cinderella, trying to make her way in spite of her family. The noted black sheep, there’s constant struggle within her to do her very best for her family, yet distant herself. Thrown into the scenario is her lothario boyfriend, a man she is madly in love with, but doesn’t give her the respect she deserves. With so much discord, it’s no wonder she chooses to leave behind the mess and chaos and embark on a soul-searching, taste testing journey in Italy, a place where she attempts to find herself.
I’m a self-professed lover of all things ice cream, but I was blown away by the wide range of flavors and creations that Giovanna indulges in. I’d never heard of so many of the flavors and textures and even the colors that are presented, an important vein that pumps life blood into The Ice Cream Parlour. With a background for delectables, there is obvious passion, and it shows in every bite that Giovanna takes. Her reputation and pride are on the line, in opening up her own parlour, but where the lines blur are in the motivations behind it. Are those motives pure, or is it a way to stick it to those who have hurt her?
There’s a large part of the novel that feels a little like the French movie He Loves Me… He Loves Me Not. Initially, the story is shown from only one perspective, like in the case of Giovanna. This enables us to side completely with her. Yet midway through, there’s a unique rewind into the past, now showcasing the perspective from a completely new vantage point, turning the reader’s ideas and opinions completely on its head. Who’s side are we on, now? It got me thinking on how past hurts, even when they’re from long ago and deep seeded, can often have a larger influence on the choices made today and how ultimately, there really isn’t a clear-cut wrong or right answer when family is involved.
The backdrop is steeped in Italian landscape, an almost cinematographic view through internal dialogue. While I’ve never been, I felt like I was right there with Giovanna while she traveled to Tuscany, Lake Como, Milan, and more. Even the experiences she has in Bath made me want to venture out to the UK. An undercurrent plot to all of this is an interesting twist to the story, the kind of dealings her family has been involved in since she was a child, always lurking in the dark, coming to fruition when she least expects it, but more than expects it. With so many distinctive events going on, The Ice Cream Parlour proved to be a delightful read!
June 25, 2019
Today I am really excited to be taking part in the blog tour for The Ice Cream Parlour, it is a lovely feel good read about the lovely Giovanna and her dreams. Gi is a character you will instantly love, she is full of determination and sass and continues to miss her home country after her family moved when she was a child.
This is the story of Gi embarking on her childhood dream to create her own Ice Cream Parlour after she has a falling out with her family which leads to her being estranged. She starts this process by returning to her home country to sample their flavours to help inspire her own creations of wonderful treats for when she returns to Bath.
I love the food themes that run through Isabella May's books and was so excited to read this wonderful book. I loved Gi from the first few pages and found that I couldn't put the book down and that I just had to keep reading to see what was in store next.
The Ice Cream Parlour is my favourite of Isabella May's books to date, it is full of the drama of families and is brimming with love and dreams with the most amazing edible creations. A superb read to enjoy in the sunshine with a massive scoop of your favourite ice cream.
This is the story of Gi embarking on her childhood dream to create her own Ice Cream Parlour after she has a falling out with her family which leads to her being estranged. She starts this process by returning to her home country to sample their flavours to help inspire her own creations of wonderful treats for when she returns to Bath.
I love the food themes that run through Isabella May's books and was so excited to read this wonderful book. I loved Gi from the first few pages and found that I couldn't put the book down and that I just had to keep reading to see what was in store next.
The Ice Cream Parlour is my favourite of Isabella May's books to date, it is full of the drama of families and is brimming with love and dreams with the most amazing edible creations. A superb read to enjoy in the sunshine with a massive scoop of your favourite ice cream.
June 15, 2019
Thank you to Rachel@rararesources for the invite to the tour and Isabella for the copy of the book in return for a fair and honest review.
This book should come with a warning ! as I spent all week thinking about the amazing flavours of Gelato described so beautifully by the author and yesterday whilst food shopping I bought a tub of Ben and Jerry’s ! Bang goes the diet 🙂
I was immediately drawn to the setting of Bath which is one of my favourite places and I loved the familiar locations being woven into the story.
The characters were a real mix of the completely odious with Jeremy to the wonderful Nellie and Flo. I really liked Giovanna the narrator although I felt some of her decisions were a bit questionable at times. Although when you uncover her family and their relationship this becomes understandable.
I was really interested in Giovanna’s travel and her trip to Italy was really engaging and made me want to visit all the cities as she does. I thought it was going to be a traditional type of romance story , which I do enjoy, but it really is more than this with food, travel and family upsets and secrets all combined to a really enjoyable read.
This book should come with a warning ! as I spent all week thinking about the amazing flavours of Gelato described so beautifully by the author and yesterday whilst food shopping I bought a tub of Ben and Jerry’s ! Bang goes the diet 🙂
I was immediately drawn to the setting of Bath which is one of my favourite places and I loved the familiar locations being woven into the story.
The characters were a real mix of the completely odious with Jeremy to the wonderful Nellie and Flo. I really liked Giovanna the narrator although I felt some of her decisions were a bit questionable at times. Although when you uncover her family and their relationship this becomes understandable.
I was really interested in Giovanna’s travel and her trip to Italy was really engaging and made me want to visit all the cities as she does. I thought it was going to be a traditional type of romance story , which I do enjoy, but it really is more than this with food, travel and family upsets and secrets all combined to a really enjoyable read.
June 14, 2019
The tensions and rivalry which can exist between twin siblings and family dynamics play a major part in this story. Giovanna turns out to be a creative and brave young woman who takes a risk and decides to follow her instinct and turn her back on her more conventional career. This is a book with a few surprises as it takes a turn which you may not be expecting. Although Giovanna appears to be getting the short straw, in fact, as you discover, there may be more to it than that.
Full of delicious flavours, coupled with some stunning settings in Italy as well as Bath, you will wish that you could sample some of the unusual ice creams. There are some comedy moments and larger than life characters. I certainly wasn't expecting Giovanna's relationship with her family to turn out the way it did. You are swept along with Giovanna as she travels to sort out her thoughts and learn from the best and you are certainly rooting for her to succeed.
In short: Light and full of life it is just perfect for a summer's day read.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
Full of delicious flavours, coupled with some stunning settings in Italy as well as Bath, you will wish that you could sample some of the unusual ice creams. There are some comedy moments and larger than life characters. I certainly wasn't expecting Giovanna's relationship with her family to turn out the way it did. You are swept along with Giovanna as she travels to sort out her thoughts and learn from the best and you are certainly rooting for her to succeed.
In short: Light and full of life it is just perfect for a summer's day read.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
June 21, 2019
Isabella May’s books always leave me hungry for more – food and another of her books to read! In all of her novels the foodie element almost becomes a character in its own right and The Ice Cream Parlour continues along the same wonderful path as her earlier books (if you haven’t yet read them, do yourself a favour and snap them up).
In The Ice Cream Parlour, the heroine, Giovanna, offers gelato in an astounding variety of flavours, most of which sound mouth-wateringly tempting. But, of course, that alone wouldn’t be enough to make a full length novel and I’m pleased to say the plot was almost as delicious as the ice cream. There is betrayal of trust, a boyfriend who really doesn’t deserve her, family secrets and discord, and many emotional hurdles for Giovanna to overcome. I won’t give any spoilers, but will say the way in which the various threads were tied up shows the quality of May’s writing. My only gripe was that I didn’t want the book to come to an end.
In The Ice Cream Parlour, the heroine, Giovanna, offers gelato in an astounding variety of flavours, most of which sound mouth-wateringly tempting. But, of course, that alone wouldn’t be enough to make a full length novel and I’m pleased to say the plot was almost as delicious as the ice cream. There is betrayal of trust, a boyfriend who really doesn’t deserve her, family secrets and discord, and many emotional hurdles for Giovanna to overcome. I won’t give any spoilers, but will say the way in which the various threads were tied up shows the quality of May’s writing. My only gripe was that I didn’t want the book to come to an end.
July 23, 2019
The Ice Cream Parlour, Isabella May.
“The Ice Cream Parlour is a mouthwatering tale of fate, family, love and jealousy - with a delectable drizzle of alchemy besides”.
Giovanna Tonioli, lives in Bath with her famous sports star boyfriend and is a successful stockbroker, but when her seemingly perfect life crumbles she heads off to Italy, on a ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ style retreat. Giovanna heads off on a tour of all things Gelateria, and whilst away meets temptation and decides her life is heading in a new direction. On returning home she opens an ice cream parlour which just happens to be in direct competition to her evil twin sister, Natalia.
This is a lovely summer read, which zips along at a fast pace and keeps you reading late until the night. The characters are well described and the sights and sounds of Italy are bought to life under Isabella’s pen, as are the tastes of some delightful ice cream!
“The Ice Cream Parlour is a mouthwatering tale of fate, family, love and jealousy - with a delectable drizzle of alchemy besides”.
Giovanna Tonioli, lives in Bath with her famous sports star boyfriend and is a successful stockbroker, but when her seemingly perfect life crumbles she heads off to Italy, on a ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ style retreat. Giovanna heads off on a tour of all things Gelateria, and whilst away meets temptation and decides her life is heading in a new direction. On returning home she opens an ice cream parlour which just happens to be in direct competition to her evil twin sister, Natalia.
This is a lovely summer read, which zips along at a fast pace and keeps you reading late until the night. The characters are well described and the sights and sounds of Italy are bought to life under Isabella’s pen, as are the tastes of some delightful ice cream!
June 12, 2019
The first thing that pulled me into this book was the wonderful descriptions of Capri. The author has taken such time and care over conveying the atmosphere, heat and beauty of this tiny Italian island that I felt I was there...and have now added it to my travel bucket list!
The second was the spirit and tenacity of the heroine, Giovanna who is on a quest to find herself and pursue her true passion...gelato. A truly inspiring character fighting for her dreams, honesty and self fulfilment in a world where the people and situations around her defy her every positive step forward.
The book skips along at a wonderful pace and is a great summer read - taking place in Italy and Bath, England, it's a delight in every way.
The Ice Cream Parlour is filled with laughter, intrigue, family relationships, romantic relationships and ice cream. What's not to like? Recommended :)
The second was the spirit and tenacity of the heroine, Giovanna who is on a quest to find herself and pursue her true passion...gelato. A truly inspiring character fighting for her dreams, honesty and self fulfilment in a world where the people and situations around her defy her every positive step forward.
The book skips along at a wonderful pace and is a great summer read - taking place in Italy and Bath, England, it's a delight in every way.
The Ice Cream Parlour is filled with laughter, intrigue, family relationships, romantic relationships and ice cream. What's not to like? Recommended :)
July 21, 2019
Delicious !
Despite the bittersweet story line of this riveting romance - it had a wonderful feel good feeling. Something to do with the delicious world of gelato that you are virtually hauled through as you happily consume the chapters.
Giovanna’s decision to launch her own Ice Cream Parlour is driven by the betrayal of her family and her cheating partner. Traveling through Italy, she is on a quest to discover the very best concoctions of gelato to make her new business a success. I was impressed by the detail of this culinary journey – Isabella May had certainly done her research.
She also delivers punchy, humorous dialogue throughout this fresh, and entertaining tale.
Look forward to reading more of her foodie led romances.
Despite the bittersweet story line of this riveting romance - it had a wonderful feel good feeling. Something to do with the delicious world of gelato that you are virtually hauled through as you happily consume the chapters.
Giovanna’s decision to launch her own Ice Cream Parlour is driven by the betrayal of her family and her cheating partner. Traveling through Italy, she is on a quest to discover the very best concoctions of gelato to make her new business a success. I was impressed by the detail of this culinary journey – Isabella May had certainly done her research.
She also delivers punchy, humorous dialogue throughout this fresh, and entertaining tale.
Look forward to reading more of her foodie led romances.
April 25, 2019
This is not my usual sort of book but I have heard a lot about Isabella May and was offered the chance to review the book so jumped at the opportunity. Being a parent of twins I enjoy stories about the relationships between them. This book also had romance, heartbreak and tons and tons of ice cream. At the start I feared it would be a reworking of Chocolat by Joanne Harris but with ice cream and Italy instead of chocolate and France but I couldn't have been more wrong. I enjoyed this book a lot more than I expected and would read more by Ms May.
May 15, 2019
Yet another fabulously, hunger generating novel from Ms May.
This time tempting us with all things, gelato!
The twisting, turning tale of one Giovanna Tonioli and her horribly selfish family, especially her twin sister, keep you gripped to each and every page, willing her on to succeed. Moving you from Capri to Bath, back to Italy, on an all Ice cream flavoured pilgrimage and returning to Blighty to fulfill her frozen dreams!
A captivating and mouth watering journey with a wee bit of Mafia thrown into the mix, makes for a wonder filled adventure for us readers to escape!
This time tempting us with all things, gelato!
The twisting, turning tale of one Giovanna Tonioli and her horribly selfish family, especially her twin sister, keep you gripped to each and every page, willing her on to succeed. Moving you from Capri to Bath, back to Italy, on an all Ice cream flavoured pilgrimage and returning to Blighty to fulfill her frozen dreams!
A captivating and mouth watering journey with a wee bit of Mafia thrown into the mix, makes for a wonder filled adventure for us readers to escape!
May 21, 2019
Ice cream, Italy, sibling rivalry and family secrets form the ingredients for a perfect summer read. I thoroughly enjoyed accompanying Giovanna on her journey of discovery, not just of exotic ice cream flavours and her birth country but also of herself as she learns the truth about people close to her and discovers someone’s quest for revenge. This is the fourth book I’ve read by the author and in my opinion her best yet. It zips along and is laced with Isabella May’s characteristic wit. A delicious treat for anyone who likes a character-driven foodie story in lovely locations.
February 1, 2025
I had been looking forward to reading this book as I have loved the other books by this author. Straight away I was hooked, I found it fascinating how different the twins were and that they didn’t get on at all. I loved watching Giovanni step up to the challenge and enjoyed her trip to Italy to indulge herself in all things ice cream. I liked the interesting suspense and the twists and turns along the way. It was a real page turner of a book. Filled with brilliant characters and a little magic that I absolutely adore in Isabella’s books!
Already excited for her next book!
Already excited for her next book!
May 29, 2019
This is not my usual sort of book but I have heard a lot about it through a Facebook group that I am in and WOW this book was awesome. It was a real page turner of a book.
It’s the first that I have read anything from this author and it won’ be my last, on the lookout for her other books.
Straight from the beginning I was hooked, I found it fascinating how different the twins were and that they didn’t get along at all. Imaginative and creative, witty and current. In addition, Giovanna’s tour of Italy had me really thinking I transported to Italia. Such a great read.
It’s the first that I have read anything from this author and it won’ be my last, on the lookout for her other books.
Straight from the beginning I was hooked, I found it fascinating how different the twins were and that they didn’t get along at all. Imaginative and creative, witty and current. In addition, Giovanna’s tour of Italy had me really thinking I transported to Italia. Such a great read.
June 9, 2019
Definitely dont read when hungry - hahaha. All the most delicious sounding ice cream flavours imaginable - I was in so much trouble.
With a mix of sibling rivalry and a little romance then dont forget the amazing food with explosive drama this book was a sure fun read.
This was my first book by this author and I did struggle at first to follow to get into the story but then glad I found the amazing descriptive ways of Isabella May that I had heard about. Loved the exploration of Italy especially.
4 star x
With a mix of sibling rivalry and a little romance then dont forget the amazing food with explosive drama this book was a sure fun read.
This was my first book by this author and I did struggle at first to follow to get into the story but then glad I found the amazing descriptive ways of Isabella May that I had heard about. Loved the exploration of Italy especially.
4 star x
June 26, 2019
A delicious treat of a book
A rather delightful and Devine tale of love letting go and embracing one's true path in life. May takes you on a culinary and spiritual journey across Italy. Tantalising all of your senses as well your tastebuds. Tentatively teasing you and marvelling in Giovanna's vision for her life after divorcing her family and setting up by herself back in bath. This book is a real treat but a little tip have plenty of tasty snacks to hand, it will leave you ravenous.
A rather delightful and Devine tale of love letting go and embracing one's true path in life. May takes you on a culinary and spiritual journey across Italy. Tantalising all of your senses as well your tastebuds. Tentatively teasing you and marvelling in Giovanna's vision for her life after divorcing her family and setting up by herself back in bath. This book is a real treat but a little tip have plenty of tasty snacks to hand, it will leave you ravenous.
May 3, 2020
Wow on another level
I enjoyed this book so much. It was a little slow at times, but I understand why. It was a lot to lay out and uncover. I love the way things were described. It was like you were transported to that moment in time. Like a suspension that allowed you to look, taste, feel and experience what was happening. I knew from the beginning I was going to want to snap Jeremy in two and I’ll let you read to see how I came to my conclusion on him. Gi was a very complex character and reading her journey was intriguing.
I enjoyed this book so much. It was a little slow at times, but I understand why. It was a lot to lay out and uncover. I love the way things were described. It was like you were transported to that moment in time. Like a suspension that allowed you to look, taste, feel and experience what was happening. I knew from the beginning I was going to want to snap Jeremy in two and I’ll let you read to see how I came to my conclusion on him. Gi was a very complex character and reading her journey was intriguing.
April 5, 2021
Isabella May whips up mouthwatering characters in this twisted story of twin sisters. Giovanna Tonioli and her twin are thrown into their family mix of favoritism, jealousy, and sibling rivalry.
Isabella May does the foxtrot on your taste buds for a good family drama. She drizzles her tale with deception and betrayal, sprinkles romance here and there and puts the cherry on top of a heaven in a bowl twisted saga.
Grab your silver spoon, a few napkins for clean up, and dish yourself a helping of a delectable tale.
Men and women, young and old will drool over this book.
Isabella May does the foxtrot on your taste buds for a good family drama. She drizzles her tale with deception and betrayal, sprinkles romance here and there and puts the cherry on top of a heaven in a bowl twisted saga.
Grab your silver spoon, a few napkins for clean up, and dish yourself a helping of a delectable tale.
Men and women, young and old will drool over this book.
May 18, 2019
Another delightful read from Isabella May.
The Ice cream Parlour follows the story of twin sisters who left Italy and moved to England as young girls. As an adult Giovanna travels around Italy in search of exciting ice cream flavours for her own parlour.
There are a few twists and turns and the story is laced with a little humour and has great characters. The descriptions of the places make you feel like visiting them yourself.
A good read that I will recommend to friends.
The Ice cream Parlour follows the story of twin sisters who left Italy and moved to England as young girls. As an adult Giovanna travels around Italy in search of exciting ice cream flavours for her own parlour.
There are a few twists and turns and the story is laced with a little humour and has great characters. The descriptions of the places make you feel like visiting them yourself.
A good read that I will recommend to friends.
April 1, 2021
This is the first book I have read by Isabella May. This story takes you to so many beautiful places you feel like you are actually there. This story has a little bit of everything in it, love, family, travel, food, mystery. I loved the characters and how they all relate to each other. This is a very emotional read and also makes you want to go out and get some ice cream. I wish you could actually find all the flavors that are mentioned in this book. It was very enjoyable and a delightful read.
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