by Giovanni Cocco and Amneris Magella
translated by Stephen Sartarelli
Find out more about this book and author:
Goodreads
Published: 2017
Publisher: Penguin Books
Genre: Mystery, Italy
Paperback: 270
Rating: 4
Commissario Stefania Valenti series:
Shadows on the Lake
Omicidio alla Stazione Centrale
Morte a Bellagio
First sentence(s):
At the end of the first year of the enforcement of the legislative decree of 4 January 1944, XXII, no.4, which provides for the seizure of properties belonging to citizens of the Jewish race, I hereby submit to you, DUCE, the statistical data relating to the work thus far accomplished.
A new atmospheric Italian mystery novel set in Lake Como, introducing the clever and captivating Inspector Stefania Valenti.
During the construction of a new road to the Swiss border in the mountains above Lake Como, the remains of a young man are unearthed on the powerful Cappelletti family's property. On the case is Stefania Valenti, forty-five, divorced with a young daughter, and a brilliant, determined police inspector.
Her investigation takes her back to World War II and deep into the history of the region, a place that during the war attracted smugglers, deserters, secret agents, and fleeing Jews. Steeped in the beautiful atmosphere of Northern Italy, Valenti's investigation brings to light a family's secret, a tragic romance, and reveals a fascinating piece of Italian history.
My two-bits:
I felt like this gently plodded along and comes to a halt with a classic mystery motive with a small town Italian vibe.
* part of Books, Inc. Foreign Intrigue Book Club (here)
