If you’ve ever wished your cozy mysteries came with a side of handmade shoes and a sprinkle of Italian charm, Murder Italian Style, by Diane Vallere, might be your next binge. In this 16th installment of the Killer Fashion Mystery series, amateur sleuth Samantha Kidd trades her Pennsylvania digs for a dreamy villa in Monza, Italy, a trip that was supposed to be a holiday break but, of course, turns into a classic whodunnit. Between artisanal pizza, buried family drama, and a decades-old murder conviction that doesn’t quite sit right, Samantha finds herself pulled into a mystery that’s as tangled as a pile of vintage silk scarves.

Right out of the gate, what I loved most was Samantha’s voice: sharp, warm, and packed with dry humor. Her banter with her husband Nick in the opening chapter had me actually laughing out loud. “What’s potato in Italian?” “Po-tah-to.” Vallere writes like she’s sitting across from you at brunch with bottomless mimosas, light on her feet but with a real eye for detail. There’s a moment when Samantha describes the villa with such affection and awe that I could feel the chevron wood floors under my toes. That scene also sets the tone for the book’s secret weapon: atmosphere. Italy isn’t just a setting, it’s part of the mood board for the whole story.

The premise is compelling: a former lover imprisoned for murder, a cache of unsent letters, and a parole hearing fast approaching. The stakes extend far beyond legal implications; they’re deeply emotional. A particularly memorable moment unfolds during a dinner beneath the stars when Monica and Isabella appeal to Samantha for help in proving Pasquale’s innocence. The vulnerability in this exchange is palpable and deeply affecting. What stands out even more, though, is Samantha’s response. She doesn’t overreact or grandstand; she listens, reflects, and ultimately agrees to help. Not out of obligation or heroism, but because she genuinely cares. It’s this quiet mix of empathy and discernment that keeps the story anchored, even as the mystery grows more complex.

While the pacing in the middle section slows somewhat, this deliberate tempo allows for a richer immersion in the setting and character dynamics. Scenes featuring Samantha’s keen eye for footwear, reminiscent of a detective inspecting clues, are particularly engaging. Vallere’s expertise in fashion shines through, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. A standout example is the visit to the shoe store near the prison, a moment that subtly intertwines setting, character insight, and thematic resonance. It’s a thoughtful approach that enhances the story’s texture without overwhelming it.

Murder Italian Style was a breezy, stylish, and unexpectedly emotional ride. If you’re into cozy mysteries with a quirky heroine, a pinch of fashion, and a setting you’ll want to move into immediately, you’ll be in good hands. Fans of Nancy Drew for grown-ups, Hallmark mysteries, or anyone who gets misty over old love stories should absolutely pick this up. Just be warned: you’ll crave pizza, espresso, and maybe a pair of Italian loafers by the last page.

Pages: 234 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DTJGZX4G