Book Review: Nonna Maria and the Case of the Lost Treasure by Lorenzo Carcaterra

“Nonna Maria, “one of the most charming amateur sleuths ever created” (Tess Gerritsen), dodges assassins and hunts for hidden treasure in this transporting mystery from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lorenzo Carcaterra…”

Goodreads blurb for Nonna Maria and the Case of the Lost Treasure

Review:

I try to avoid picking up books mid-series but I was drawn to both the cover and description when this book showed up in an email. I’m glad I took the chance. With a lovely cast of characters and a great setting, it was a nice read. 

A target of a decades-long revenge plot, Captain Murino turns to Nonna Maria for help. On the other side of the island of Ischia, another person connected to Nonna Maria offers forth an old treasure map. This, too, is brought to Nonna Maira and the book follows both plot lines. 

It took some getting used to the dual plot in a cozy mystery, at least how it was presented here. Both were easy to follow, I just can’t recall ever reading a book with this format in this particular genre. There is a great deal of action in the book which helped keep both plots moving along well. 

Though third in the series, Nonna Maria and the Case of the Lost Treasure stands well on its own. As with any series, I think you get the best experience reading in over, however, I didn’t find it completely necessary. That said, I would love to go back and read the first two books. 

A huge thanks to Random House and NetGalley for providing me with a free digital ARC of the book!

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• The setting. I don’t know why I don’t read more books set in Italy. I always enjoy it.
• Very lovable characters.
• Intriguing plots.

What I didn’t like:

• I could have done without the dual plot lines.
• A lot of telling rather than showing.

Where to buy the book: