Nonna Maria and the Case of the Lost Treasure - Lorenzo Carcaterra

 Nonna Maria and the Case of  the Lost Treasure - Lorenzo Carcaterra

Pub. Date:  May 7, 2024

She read

Nonna Maria has lived her entire life on the island of Ischia.  She is familiar to all for her kindness, generosity, local knowledge, and ability to solve problems, particularly if they involve crimes.  To her, though, it is not solving crimes, it is helping friends.  She is quite resourceful.  Everyone loves her; even the head of the Comorra. 

Once again, there are two “cases” in which she becomes involved. Her good friend, the captain of the carabinieri, has become the target of assassins as revenge for his having arrested a crime lord years ago in Florence.  She also teams up with some local characters to help the granddaughter of a deceased friend find treasure that he hid in one of Ischia’s caves years ago.  Both cases place Nonna Maria in danger.  

This is a cozy mystery Italian style with wine and espresso instead of tea.  Nonna Maria is a beguiling older woman known not only for her wiles but also for serving wine, her special coffee, and delicious homemade food and pastries.   She is surrounded by unique and equally charming characters.  

This is the third in the series; it would work as a standalone.  Read this book and the series not only for the mysteries, which are interesting, but also to savor island life and appreciate the special charm of Nonna Maria. And, oh, those descriptions of Italian food!  Yum!

Thanks to @NetGalley and @randomhouse for the DRC.