Recs if you like Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay...

sunny settings, or books that feel sunny and offer escapism from the winter blues in an eclectic blend of genres.

Editing to add: okay some of these books are SAD, my dudes, just like my seasonal affective disorder. But at the same time, they are soft and kind and a safe place for the big sad, if that makes sense?

novels that track friendships throughout time. full of complex childhood comparison trauma, friend break ups and perhaps reconciliations, shifting friend group dynamics, and the impact of age on our most foundational relationships.

Recommendations welcomed! This list will be updated as needed.

Books by Italian authors (or authors who have substantially lived in Italy and can write it very well) translated into English that are usually set in Italy.

Suggestions welcome ☺️🫶

aka my favorite dynamic in m/f couples

Must-Read Books in Translation by Women <3

the neapolitan novels, also known as the neapolitan quartet, are a four-part series of fiction by the pseudonymous Italian author elena ferrante.

books set in Naples or by Neapolitan authors

for me to keep track