This Summer in Barcelona

This Summer in Barcelona is an engaging contemporary Ukrainian novel by Tetiana Stryzhevska that blends youthful adventure, heartfelt friendship, and unexpected twists on the road. Published by Видавництво Старого Лева, this story follows a group of close friends who have dreamed since high school of driving across Europe together — straight to vibrant Barcelona — the place of sun, sangria, and summer freedom.

Now, as first-year university students, their long-held dream finally seems within reach. Everything is meticulously planned: the open road, the nights spent dancing under Spanish skies, sunrise walks on the beach, and stories waiting to be written. But life on the road never stays perfectly on track. When an unfamiliar, temperamental young man unexpectedly joins the group, the adventure begins to take surprising turns. Between unanticipated detours, mishaps with police, nights under the stars, hospital scares, and buried secrets that rise to the surface, the friends must confront what truly matters — loyalty, love, and the strength of their shared past.

Written with warmth, humor, and emotional depth, This Summer in Barcelona captures the excitement and uncertainty of youth. Readers who enjoy character-driven contemporary fiction with elements of travel, self-discovery, and vibrant settings will find this novel both relatable and unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn to stories about friendship, growing up, or transformational journeys, this book offers a compelling blend of heart and energy.