This is an advanced reader’s copy I received in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Mélisa Ryun and Happily Booked PR for providing me with a copy. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Some books simply leave you smiling long after you finish the final page, and Italy Can Bite Me was definitely one of them.
Released on 20 March 2025, this debut rom com by Mélisa Ryun is filled with humour, charm, delightful banter, and just the right amount of emotional warmth. It has the kind of energy that immediately makes you want to pack a suitcase, book a flight, and disappear into the streets of Italy for a while.
What surprised me most was how much I genuinely enjoyed this book. I do not usually gravitate towards romance novels, especially romantic comedies, since I tend to lean more towards fantasy. Yet this story completely won me over. It reminded me that sometimes the perfect comfort read is simply something light hearted, entertaining, and full of characters who make you laugh unexpectedly.
And this book truly did make me laugh out loud.
One of the highlights for me was undoubtedly Aunt Deb. She brought so much personality and warmth to the story that every scene involving her felt instantly more entertaining. Honestly, if I ever reach my seventies with even half her confidence and spirit, I will consider that an achievement. The seniors’ bus tour added so much humour and heart to the novel, and it ended up becoming one of my favourite aspects of the entire reading experience.
Katie took me a little longer to connect with initially. She is incredibly organised and loves planning every detail, which is very different from my own personality. As someone who tends to overthink rather than meticulously plan, I occasionally found myself frustrated with her decisions. However, as the story progressed, her character began to feel much more endearing.
Matteo, on the other hand, was immediately charming. He carries that effortless, flirtatious energy that feels perfectly suited to an Italian summer setting. Beneath all the teasing and confidence, though, there is also sincerity to his character, which made him far more engaging than the typical romantic lead.
One thing I especially appreciated was how authentic both perspectives felt throughout the novel. Knowing that the book was written by a husband and wife duo suddenly made perfect sense while reading. The male and female viewpoints both felt natural and convincing, which added so much depth to the chemistry between the characters. Their banter felt playful without becoming forced, and the romance developed in a way that remained genuinely enjoyable to follow.
I also loved the friendships within the story. Katie, Petra, and Cam shared the kind of dynamic that felt believable and comforting. Their conversations and interactions resembled genuine friendships rather than exaggerated fictional ones, which made the emotional moments land even more naturally.
The opposites attract dynamic between Katie and Matteo worked beautifully as well. They are entirely different people in many ways, yet those differences are precisely what allow them to balance one another so effectively. Watching that relationship evolve became one of the most enjoyable parts of the book.
And the first date scene? Easily one of the funniest moments in the entire novel. I genuinely could not stop laughing while reading it.
Beyond the romance and humour, the setting itself added so much charm to the story. The descriptions of Italy felt vivid and immersive without becoming overwhelming. By the end of the book, I found myself wanting to wander through Italian streets, sit in tiny cafés, and impulsively plan a holiday I absolutely cannot afford right now.
I also unexpectedly adored Lorenzo, the bus driver. He may not speak much, but every moment involving him somehow leaves an impression. Characters like him quietly added even more warmth to the story.
If you enjoy romantic comedies filled with witty banter, travel, emotional warmth, and characters who feel genuinely entertaining to spend time with, Italy Can Bite Me is absolutely worth picking up. It is funny, charming, comforting, and wonderfully easy to lose yourself in for a few hours.
I will definitely be looking forward to whatever Mélisa Ryun writes next.
