While everyone’s travel has come to a halt, consider ordering or downloading a book set in a beautiful, fun destination – maybe some place you’ve always wanted to visit. And, since almost everyone is looking forward to happy hour right now, I’ve suggested a cocktail to go with each location!

Nantucket / Martha’s Vineyard: read with a Nantucket Spritz (1 oz tequila, 1 oz Cointreau, 2 oz blood orange juice, 2 oz champagne – chill ingredients, combine and serve in a champagne glass)

The Nantucket Inn by Pamela Kelly (the first of four books in the Nantucket Beach Plum series) – In the first book Lisa Hodges decides to turn her large, waterfront home into a bed and breakfast.

Winter in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand (the first of two books in the Paradise series) – All of Elin’s books are based in Nantucket and I’ve enjoyed them all.

A Beautiful Place to Die: Martha’s Vineyard Mystery #1 by Philip R. Craig – If you’re more of a mystery book reader, this is a nineteen-book series.

Italy: read with a glass of Italian red wine, or an Aperol Spritz (recipe here)

Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes – If you enjoyed the movie, you’ll love the book.

A Vineyard in Tuscany by Ferenc Máté – A very entertaining read about Ferenc and his wife, Candace, restoring a thirteenth-century friary, planting a vineyard and building a winery. 

Living in a Foreign Language by Michael Tucker – Remember “L.A. Law” stars Michael Tucker and Jill Eikenberry? This book details their ups and downs buying and renovating a 350-year-old house while trying to learn Italian. 

France: read with a glass of well-chilled French rosé, or a French 75 (recipe here)

A Riviera Retreat by Jennifer Bohnet – Jennifer has numerous books based in the French Riviera, all quick easy reads that will have you pulling up a map to see exactly how close Cannes, Antibes, Nice and Monaco are located. I’m definitely adding The French Riviera to my list of future travels.

A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle – Peter recounts the highlights of living in a 200-year-old farmhouse at the base of the Lubéron Mountains. If you enjoy Peter’s writing style, he has numerous books based in Provence.

Tender is the Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald – If you’re looking to read a classic set in The French Riviera this book is often seen as a follow-up to The Great Gatsby.

Leave a comment with the books you’re reading now. I’m always looking for more suggestions.

Cheers and happy reading!

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