The Floating Venice Bookshop, an escapist spring romance
The Floating Venice Bookshop by Annabel French is the perfect escapist romance, and it’s going on my list of books like Emily in Paris!
The Floating Venice Bookshop by Annabel French
- Setting: Venice (Italy!)
- Tropes and Themes: life and love abroad, confidence building, PCOS rep and a character who wants a child-free life
- Spice level: very low, with just some chaste kisses.
- Publication date: February 10, 2026. Thanks to Avon Books for the advance copy!
What is The Floating Venice Bookshop About?
Beth, a young Brit, has been enjoying a secondment at the Galleria dell Accademia in Venice. But when she learns that her funding is gone and that she will lose both her job and her flat, she panics.
When the owner of her favorite cafe tells her that his friend wants to sell his bookstore barge, the normally cautious Beth takes a leap and buys it. This sends her on a journey of entrepreneurship, friendship, and even love!
My Thoughts on The Floating Venice Bookshop
This book is perfect for readers who do not want their romance books angst-filled and dramatic. Yes, Beth faces some hardships, but through her small network of friends, and support from her two best friends in the UK on Zoom, she always manages to land on her feet.
Beth’s love for the magical city of Venice infuses the book with a feeling of joy and appreciation of life. She’s learning Italian and trying to appreciate the Italian way of life, though she has a hard time giving up her afternoon latte!
There’s a sweet friends-to-lovers romance with a few bumps in the road but nothing too stressful.
If you are looking for an escapist romance with a warm and cozy feel and a truly magical setting, The Floating Venice Bookshop could be perfect for you!
This Book is perfect for:
- Fans of Emily in Paris: check out my list of YA books for fans of the show!
- I also have a list of adult romance for fans of Emily in Paris!
- You can also take my quiz and find out Which Emily in Paris city should you visit!
I visited Venice recently and took a picture of a Venice bookshop with some of my favorite books in Italian!
