Lorenzo Carcaterra

What a fun and charming mystery set on the lush and warm island of Ischia just off the coast of Naples, Italy.

Given the tight-knit community on Ischia, nothing goes unseen and everyone looks after one another. When strangers are in their midst, beyond the usual day-tripping tourists, the locals are quietly watching. This watchfulness is particularly keen when nefarious strangers have one of the locals in their sites. Meanwhile, the granddaughter of a notorious jewel thief, whose memory is filled with fantastical stories shared by her now-deceased grandfather, discovers a map among his things. Could this be a map to his quarry? Rumors have been floating about among the treasure hunters for years about the famous Paolino Iacone's hoard. But none has yet found it. Can Rita attain her legacy before the treasure hunter's seize it for themselves? Can carabinieri Captain Murino capture the nefarious strangers before anyone gets hurt or worse?

Mr. Caraterra has done a wonderful job of creating a beautiful setting for this series. One hears the cry of seagulls and the crashing waves on the rocks; one smells the tang of the ocean and the enticing aromas of fabulous cuisine cooked by the magical hands of local women for those whom they love; and one sees the looming castle built into the cliff high above the port. The writing is rich and the characters well developed. The interaction among the characters and affection exuded among the locals is palpable. The tension builds gradually to a spectacular climax and and then gently eases leaving the reader with a warmth for the local characters, a satisfied feeling, and a desire to book their next trip to the Amalfi Coast.

I am grateful to Bantam Books for having provided a complimentary uncorrected proof of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.

Publisher:‎ Bantam Books
Publication Date: ‎ May 7, 2024
No. of pages: ‎ 288
ISBN-13:‎ 978-0593499214… (mere)

Review of Advance Reader’s Uncorrected eBook File

Maurizio Carnale sits in an outdoor café ion the island of Ischia waiting for his double espresso. No one knows he has come to this place for the specific purpose of killing a man.

Meanwhile, Nonna Maria is enjoying her espresso in the company of two of her granddaughters. At their insistence, she tells them [yet again] a special story, the story of the creation of Ischia.

When Paolino Iacone dies, he leaves his granddaughter, Rita, with a secret map showing the location of her inheritance. She asks Nonna Maria for help finding the treasure hidden in the rocky coastal caves.

Will Nonna Maria and Rita find the hidden treasure before others are able to snatch it away? And will the assassin succeed in his murderous quest?

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The third of the Nonna Maria tales, the book has sufficient backstory to work as a standalone. One of the strengths of the story is the focus on loyalty and friendship.

The delightful island setting, charming main character, and intriguing mystery all work together to draw the reader into the telling of the tale from the outset. Expect ruthless treasure hunters, pirates, and criminals as the unfolding story takes readers on an exciting adventure of discovery.

Aside from the treasure hunt, the tension and suspense of the hired assassin stalking Captain Murino keeps the pages turning as fast as possible.

Readers who enjoy adventure, mystery, and strong friendships will find much to appreciate here.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine, Bantam and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
#NonnaMariaandtheCaseoftheLostTreasure #NetGalley… (mere)