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Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Murder Italian Style by Diane Vallere is part of the Killer Fashion Mystery series. Samantha is an expert in all things stylish and has made plans for an exciting vacation in Italy where she has idyllic fantasies of pasta and romantic scenery. Having to solve a decades-old case was not on her bucket list. Her host draws her into a murder mystery that threatens to end her happy vacation fantasy and puts her in the middle of a complicated drama. The investigation is more difficult than she expected when she learns the victim was the most hated person in town and the primary suspect put behind bars is a cobbler named Pasquale. In a surprising twist, Samantha’s host reveals an important clue about where Pasquale was supposed to be that night. She’ll need all the help she can get if she plans to catch the real killer before they catch her.
The setting provides stunning visuals that create an idyllic backdrop for the sleuthing antics to take place. The case is decades old which requires Samantha to look at things a little differently and how events occurred in the past. Diane Vallere weaves careful threads to connect Samantha’s host and other clues in a satisfying conclusion that wraps everything up. The relationship between Samantha and Nick is adorable. Their dynamic is playful, supportive, and genuine with the two helping each other and working together to solve the case. This relationship gives the mystery a sweet edge, making it feel like a lighthearted jaunt filled with clues and twists. The writing is charming with clever word choices that help you to get to know Samantha’s personality and add delightful humor. She’s a curious person with a quick wit that helps her investigate; however, she does lean on those around her which makes her a well-rounded character. Murder Italian Style quickly sets the bar high with writing that brings the setting to life and a mystery that makes you keep turning the pages.
