Sambuca Scarlet: A Private Investigator Comedy Mystery

by Traci Andrighetti

Franki’s plans to get hitched hit a serious snag…

Wedding bells are ringing for Franki Amato. She’s overjoyed, and overstressed. Family and friends have gathered in New Orleans to see her tie the knot, and her mom and nonna are giving her marital advice she’d rather not get. But the walk down the aisle takes a hard right when someone drops dead at Bradley’s bachelor party, and he’s the main suspect. With only one week to go until the big day, Franki puts on her PI hat to save the date, quite literally. The investigation takes her places she’d rather not revisit, chief among them the creepy old Pharmacy Museum, the haunted garden behind St. Louis Cathedral, and her ex-stripper landlady’s costume closet. Even spookier, there are ghostly goings-on at the pasta-factory-turned-hotel where she’s staying, and an unknown person is leaving ominous objects too close to home—in her room. Will Franki identify the killer and get her happily ever after? Or will “Till death do us part” come far too soon?

Sambuca Scarlet is book 10 in the Franki Amato Mysteries, but it can be read as a standalone story. If you like zany characters and laugh-out-loud humor with a splash of suspense, then you’ll drink up this fun series by USA Today Bestselling Author Traci Andrighetti. Cheers!

FRANKI AMATO
Limoncello Yellow (book 1)
Prosecco Pink (book 2)
Amaretto Amber (book 3)
Campari Crimson (book 4)
Galliano Gold (book 5)
Marsala Maroon (book 6)
Valpolicella Violet (book 7)
Tuaca Tan (book 8)
Nocino Noir (book 9)
Braulio Brown (Thanksgiving novella)
Sambuca Scarlet (book 10)

To find out what Franki’s up to between the books, join Traci’s newsletter on her website to get Mini Comedy Mysteries for FREE!

“The good times roll in Traci Andrighetti’s Franki Amato series! Cleverly named with colorful Italian libations—and filled with equally colorful characters—these fast-paced and funny cozies feature a dryly witty sleuth and a New Orleans setting so well-rendered, you can taste the Hurricanes, cher.”
~ Rosie Genova, bestselling author

“Traci Andrighetti’s Franki Amato Mysteries have me tickled pink! Her smart, sassy heroine, wacky cast of characters, and vividly original settings had me glued to the page. I can’t wait to read more from this author!”
~ Gemma Halliday, New York Times bestselling author

“Andrighetti’s dialogue is genuine yet uproarious, and her glowing characters animatedly leap off the page. Her sparkling wit keeps the hijinks brimming with merriment.”
~ Long Island Book Reviews

Genres: Mystery

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 25, 2025

About the author

Traci Andrighetti is the USA Today bestselling author of the Franki Amato mysteries and the Danger Cove Hair Salon mysteries, and she is a co-author of the Killer Foursome mysteries. Her latest release is 4 SLEUTHS & A BACHELORETTE, Franki's first co-investigation with the sleuths of Leslie Langtry, Arlene McFarlane, and Diana Orgain. Right now Traci's plotting TUACA TAN, Franki Amato 8, about the members of an all-female Mardi Gras krewe who keep dropping dead. Next off the press is Franki’s second investigation with her new “krewe,” 4 SLEUTHS & A BURLESQUE DANCER, about a washed up dolphin dancer found dead in the water. LMAO (the initials of Langtry, Andrighetti, McFarlane, and Orgain)! :D

Reviews

[kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much happening in this story. Will Franki ever make it to the altar with Bradley? She has the Italian side of the family wanting tradition. Bradley gets arrested for murder. She is kidnapped a couple times at the very beginning… More mayhem and comedic interludes abound! The Sicilian Nonne was creepy! I loved the taxi with the Santa theme. Glenda the ex-stripper is a hoot! Imagine, waking up in a cocktail glass shaped bed! I find myself chuckling, or laughing out loud throughout this book. I have been waiting forever for the wedding to happen. Finally, we’re here to see if it can happen!

I adore this series. I’ve been able to keep up with the books which has been fun over the years. I did receive an ARC of this book. My review is completely my own opinion. I highly recommend this book if you like a fairly fast paced and funny mystery with quirky characters that are unforgettable.

[Tara Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

**This review is for the audiobook on Audible. **

The audiobook Sambuca Scarlet by Traci Andrighetti, narrated by Madeline Mrozek is Book 10 in the Franki Amato Mystery series. Readers who love cozy mysteries are in for a treat, as the storyline, characters, and narration are all top-notch! On the eve of her New Orleans wedding, amateur PI Franki Amato must clear her fiancé’s name after a death at his bachelor party turns him into the prime suspect. With one week to go, she dives into the investigation to save both the case and her happily ever after. As always, Andrighetti’s writing is engaging and hilarious, making for a super fun read, without any down time. It grabbed my attention right from the start and didn’t let go until the last word!

The stellar performance by Madeline Mrozek was absolutely brilliant! Her narration is the reason I keep coming back for more. I almost feel bad calling it “narration” because it sounds so generic; Mrozek is literally the standard, plain and simple. She masterfully brings the story to life in a way that words cannot describe. I could try to convince you all day long that she is the best in the business, but you have to experience it for yourself to truly understand what I mean. What’s most amazing is that she does it book after book in this series, keeping true to each character’s voice, tone, and personality. It’s so impressive! (P.S. Franki’s mom and nonna are the cherry on top for me…I love Mrozek’s portrayal of them sooo much!!)

I give 5/5 stars to the audiobook Sambuca Scarlet: Franki Amato Mysteries, Book 10 by Traci Andrighetti, narrated by Madeline Mrozek. Both the writing and narration are a dream come true for fans of cozy mystery novels. While this book can stand alone, I suggest you start at the beginning of the series because it is so much fun to follow Franki and the others from day one, while fully immersing yourself in the wild storylines, situations, people, and events! Without hesitation, I recommend this audiobook and the entire Franki Amato series to listeners who love mysteries, humor, and quirky characters. You won’t be disappointed!

Thank you for reading my review, I hope it was helpful. Happy listening! :-)

[Andrea J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sambucca Scarlet by Traci Andrighetti is one of the funniest books I’ve ever read. If you have read all of the Frankie Amato books, you know that this is the one where Frankie is supposed to get married. Every character that you have ever met in any of the Frankie stories appears at some point during this one. Just when I thought nothing more could go wrong with the wedding planning, I was blown away by something even more absurd than what had already happened. It was sometimes hard to keep everything straight because there was so much going on. I was laughing during the whole book. And the Christmas Car keeps showing up to add a short break from all that is going on and give Frankie a chance to catch her breath. I never knew there were so many Sicilian traditions and superstitions that are associated with a wedding. Wow, they are exhausting. If all of them are followed, I don’t understand why or how any marriages actually happened in Sicily.
If you want a very fun read, be sure to grab this one and hold on. Traci Andrighetti and Frankie have taken it over the top.

[Lilpep · Rating 5 out of 5]

Franki and Bradley are finally getting married! But the ceremony is only days away, and the road to wedded bliss is paved with every pot hole and road block imaginable. From multiple murders, an old nemesis, and a jailed groom  to meddling nonnas and more arcane “traditions” than you can imagine, Franki is nearly at her wits (and physical) end. All of the quirky, zany characters we've come to know from previous stories are on hand to help/hinder as she tries to solve the crime Bradley is accused of.  Spoiler alert … sort of. Yes, Franki and Bradley do get married. But are Frankie's PI days over? Only time will tell. Sambuca is yet another madcap mystery romp from Ms. Andrighetti's pen that is sure to please. 

[Antonette Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! What a gem!! Finally!!!! Franki makes it to the alter...or does she??? The only way to find out is to read the book! But, you really need to read the previous Franki book's first because there are several past characters making guest appearances. As in previous books, there are several plot twists and turns, but nothing mind blowing. If you are wanting a really cute, funny, ethnic reading, this is it. After all, Franki is trying to get married; her mom and nonna trying to kidnap her, forcing their old world traditions; don't forget Bradley getting arrested...what could go wrong? One of my favs!!!!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: I was as entertained by this book as much as the others in the series. I felt for Franki when her fiancé became the primary suspect in a murder case. There were moments where I laughed out loud by the events which happened, and I was vastly amused by the marital advice given to Franki by her mom and her nonna. I liked the brief snippets of historical information. My attention was engaged by the complex mystery. I thought Madeline Mrozek's narration was great as her performance kept my attention. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.

[Paulette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poor Franki with so many Sicilian traditions to follow, it’s a wonder if she will ever get married. Then there is her kidnapping and a murder at Bradley’s bachelor party. With all the hijinks will Frankie find the murderer and still make it to the church on time?
Fast paced, fun and with great characters, this book will satisfy all those who have waited forever for Franki to get married. I received an arc from the author, this review is my honest opinion without remuneration

[Shannon Binegar-Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh it it finally Franki’s wedding. Of course it would not be complete without major meddling and shenanigans from her mom and nonna. This time around Bradley is arrested and it seriously looks like he won’t make it to the wedding. This book was so dang funny and yet also so emotional. Absolutely loved it. Can’t wait to hear about their honeymoon. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Franki is getting married. That is if she can solve the hardest case she has ever faced with all the nonna’s and her crazy cousin hindering her. I absolutely love Franki and the nonna’s! This book was hilarious! All the nonna’s think they r helping when they r not. Who knew there were so many suspicions and traditions?! Who knew there was one single Nonna that could stop Franki’s nonna?! This book was an absolute masterpiece! I highly recommend this book and this series!

[Barbara Hackel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will they, or won't they? Nobody knows for sure!

Franki and Bradley are days from getting married when more than a trifecta of things go wrong. Murder, mayhem, and the Sicilian Nonne, not to mention ghosts, Russians, and past criminals. Just another week in Franki's life.

I love the characters in Franki's world that range from family to Santa and everything in between. The actions of character from being strippers to Ghostbusters. The imagery of dozens of Nonnes taking over whether it is helpful or not. The mind of Traci Andrighetti works non-stop in wonderful ways bringing an amazing city and characters to life in the wackiest ways!

The descriptions of the city from buildings to crypts to statues near a church reflect the author's attention to details. These are the very things that make Franki's world vivid in the reader's mind. If you can't travel to the Big Easy, reading this book is a delightful way to visit!

[Amber Townsend · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lively mix of mystery, humor, and New Orleans charm! In Sambuca Scarlet, Franki Amato juggles wedding chaos, family drama, and a murder mystery with only a week before saying ‘I do.’ The blend of quirky characters, spooky settings, and laugh out loud moments makes this a fun cozy mystery. Perfect doe fans who enjoy their suspense with a side of comedy!

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Fantastic!

Frankie’s finally getting married, I think?? It’s a wild ride to the altar Amato style. Lots of twists, turns and laughter along the way. Great book and series. Fun characters and a little New Orleans flair. I look forward to seeing what trouble she gets herself into next!

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOLA at its best!

Wonderful characters that border on the ridiculous but somehow believable. Of course the fantastic NOLA setting where anything is possible. Love the bits and pieces of history that pops up. All in all a great series and I am looking forward to more of Franki’s adventures.

[Christmas Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book---no---these are 10 book you must read. They are funny, they are witty, and the characters are magnificent. Franki's adventures bring humor and history to light. Begin with book one and experience all the delight this series brings. Highly Recommended.

[Brandie · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books are so funny. I have read every one. Franki is surrounded by a cast of characters that are so "unique". Sambuca Scarlet is about her wedding, traditions, stress, and of course, murder.

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh! I love this book! Filled with complex and interesting characters, so much is happening! Will Frankie and Bradley ever manage to wed? lots of twists and turns, murder and mayhem making this a real page turner and a must read!

[Nordiana Baruzzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a long engagement Franki and Bradley are ready to tie the knot, but as usual a murder or two are ruining their preparations.

Filled with the usual plethora of whacky characters the latest addition to the Franki Amato's saga is a delightful laugh-out-loud story.

Highly, highly recommended

[Namoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

As entertaining as always. Funny, eccentric.

[K Huskić · Rating 4 out of 5]

Franki is finally married! This book was insane, in all the the best ways. Her meddling family and all the random marriage traditions that just kept popping up made me laugh. The volume of them was ridiculous!

You don't even know if the wedding is going to go ahead after an incident involving Bradley, but thankfully they do finally get their little HEA. Their wedding has been a long time coming!

This was just another crazy, fun installment in this series.

[Donna L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Franki is at her best!

Book 10 of this series is just as good, if not better, than the first book! Glenda's outfits are the best

[stephanie huntington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining and interesting

[Julie Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always imagine New Orleans as being a colourful and vibrant place, as it is known as the party capital but I am not sure if Franki's world is a dream or nightmare. Only in Franki's world (and the authors wonderful imagine) can a wedding get this chaotic and go so wrong. The number of superstitions that need to be followed before the big day, has me wondering why anybody bothered? Especially when nonna's get involved but luckily for us it makes for an entertaining and highly amusing listen. It's so easy to picture that you will be chuckling along with the antics and that's before you add in ghost, stripers, psychics and murders . The characters are as whacky and meddling as ever and I hope they never change. With so many recurring characters I would recommend reading the books in order, that way you get to know them so much better. The mystery is all tied up in the wedding drama and of course Franki has her work cut out for her while trying to stay one step ahead of well everybody. I can't wait for the next book, although the author did hint that they might be a spin off series in the works.

With Franki and Bradley's wedding just days away, Franki imagined the worst she would have to face was a group of nonna's and there wedding traditions, instead she finds herself with out a groom. Bradley is arrested at his bachelor party for murder. The only way Franki can be sure he is there for the big day, is to carry out the traditions and find the killer herself and she doesn't know which is more frightening.
The narrator is a delight and has so much fun bringing the story to life, it's as if the author writes with her in mind and can already hear how the story is going to sound. A great team. The narrator even had me chuckling along with the out takes.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review

[Debi Paglia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome book! I’m surprised Frankie made it out alive, much less married!😆 Talk about a roller coaster ride! I couldn’t put it down. There was so much happening on every page. It made me want to laugh and cry in the same paragraph. I have loved every book in this series, but this one was amazing. I just finished the audiobook and I loved! It really brings Frankie’s crazy family to life! I highly recommend this book!