Murder at Lake Como

Ginger Gold Mystery #30

by Lee Strauss

Murder is intriguing...

Spring, 1929. Europe teeters on the brink of change, and Italy thrums under Mussolini’s iron hand. Hoping for a holiday of sunlit waters and elegant soirées, Ginger and Basil Reed accept an invitation to a grand villa on Lake Como. But amid gondola rides, masked balls, and champagne under the cypress trees, tragedy strikes—a distinguished count is found drowned near the boathouse.

The authorities are quick to call it an accident, but Ginger suspects otherwise. As she delves into a glittering world of Italian nobility, feuding artists, and political intrigue, Ginger uncovers a tangle of secrets that reach far beyond jealousy or betrayal. The closer she comes to the truth, the more dangerous the game becomes—especially in a land where questions can draw the wrong kind of attention. In a country shadowed by Fascism, Ginger must unmask a killer before another guest pays the price.


★★★★★

Researching for the Ginger Gold Mysteries has been so much fun. I hope you sense that as you read. Ginger Gold is smart, savvy, and delightful. The fashions, the dances, the CRIME. The Ginger Gold Mysteries are COZY, so no scary, graphic on-stage violence. You'll find these books to be clean reads, with no swearing or sex. I hope you enjoy the Ginger Gold Mystery series!


Hop aboard the 1920s!

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction

244 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 25, 2026

About the author

For fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!

You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.

Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.

NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold

For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com

Reviews

[Marcella · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was an Amazon First Reads. It was entertaining. Although after having read and enjoyed many top authors, the writing of this book was very ho-hum. I kept reading the same kind of descriptions of each character’s reaction to the events, “they inclined their head”. It was overused and really didn’t describe anything. The story was very linear, without a lot of character development. The characters were uninteresting. Three stars. Not fantastic. Not terrible. Just entertaining.

[Geraldine Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disappointing

A bit of a non event. It never really got going, lacked all the usual characters that make this series interesting.
Sadly, it was really quite boring

[Emily Gawlak · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

📖 Murder at Lake Como (Ginger Gold Mystery #30)

How is it even possible that we’re 30 books into this series and it just keeps getting better?

I swear, every time I pick up a new Ginger Gold mystery, I think, “Surely this one can’t top the last.” And every single time, Lee Strauss proves me wrong.

This time we’re whisked away to the absolutely stunning Lake Como, and let me tell you… I wanted to pack my bags immediately. The scenery was so beautifully written that I could picture every sparkling view, every elegant villa, and every charming street. It was the perfect backdrop for another twisty mystery.

One thing I absolutely love about this series is that the characters have never lost their spark. Ginger is still just as witty, intelligent, and determined as she was when I first met her, and Basil continues to be one of my favorite fictional husbands. Their relationship is one of my favorite parts of every book, and I love seeing them solve mysteries together.

The mystery itself kept me guessing from beginning to end. Every time I thought I had it figured out, another clue completely changed my mind. I love when an author can surprise me without making it feel forced, and Lee Strauss does that so effortlessly.

Honestly, I don’t know how she keeps this series feeling so fresh after thirty books, but she does. There isn’t a single installment that has felt repetitive or tired. Instead, each book brings a new setting, new faces, and another mystery that completely pulls me in.

At this point, Ginger Gold has become one of my ultimate comfort series. Spending time with these characters feels like catching up with old friends, and every new release jumps straight to the top of my reading list.

If you’ve been following Ginger’s adventures, you’re going to love this one. And if you haven’t started this series yet… what are you waiting for? Start with book one and enjoy every single adventure. Trust me, you’ll be hooked before you know it.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Another absolutely fantastic installment in one of my all-time favorite cozy mystery series. Here’s to 30 books… and hopefully many, many more! 💜📚

[Lana Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ginger and Basil confront Mussolini's Fascism

Ginger, Basil, Ambrosia and Boss visit a girlhood friend of Ambrosia at her stunning estate on the shore of Lake Como. Here, mystery and political ideology clash when trying to pursue the truth. The crime could be viewed by the reader to be the catalyst for demonstrating the challenges, violence and undercurrent of fear that reside uneasily in the daily lives of those who live under its hammer. Yet, it also shows the desperation those needing to protect family and a way of life find justifiable to go.
The murder within our mystery works as a means through which we view the extreme political and cultural shift in Mussolini's Fascist Italy. Strauss has captured intricacies of fear, anxiety, uncertainty and danger within Fascism's brutal demand for order, strength and discipline in coordination with absolute devotion and service to the State. Here the Church, partnered with the State, provides the foundation to shape the minds and lives of the people toward Fascism's aim of complete dominance of power. This book is an interesting study of the world in the historical period Ginger resides in. It offers a signpost for what is to come in the remaining first half of the 20th century and, perhaps for us, a warning of what can happen when government chooses to ignore its basic laws in order to create one that revolves around one person, empowering and enriching himself and trusted others in their support group, while building a system designed around his/her likes and dislikes irregardless of consequences to others.

[Sue Diamond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Revisit to a Place I Love

When I'm reading many mysteries and then once again one by the Strauss's is published like Lake Como, it is with great joy to immerse myself in the world they paint so beautifully, so clearly, so accurately with writing that surpasses the 30 books I read by other authors before it.

Yes, there are other great authors like TE Kinsey and Benedict Brown. Also Higgs and Riggs are prolific and really good but there are too many good mysteries with mediocre writing to fill in the in-between times. The difference is stark. I enjoyed every word, every phrase within this book.

I inhabited Lake Como in the North in a beautiful place for a short time. A gorgeous serigraph of Lake Como by Title, looking more like a oil painting than a silkscreen, adorns my wall. But no worries... If you haven't traveled there yet, you will be transported thru this book and believe you were there if asked.

The mystery is good. The writing, characters and location are superb.

Read the Lady Gold series from Book 1 and the Diaries. Read the Lady Gold Investigates short story collections vol 1-7. If you haven't read these yet, you are in for a treat to savor like lemon curd on fresh ginger wafers with an English tea...or an excellent coffee if you prefer.

I am sad this book is done and too short. :-) September 2026 until the next delightful book is baked and bundled to my Kindle...

Many thanks to both Strauss's for the joy of reading you gifted me.

[Kelly Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder at Lake Como is the 30th Ginger Gold mystery by the wonderfully talented Lee Strauss, and as she approaches the end of this series, she is definitely pulling out all of the stops. This book, set in Italy in 1929, is not only the type of mystery we've come to expect from this author, but it also takes a look at a difficult time in world history, bringing it to life as only well-written fiction can do.
The setting of a Contessa's estate at Lake Como in Italy is vividly beautiful, and the reactions to it of Ginger and Basil, having come from London's bleak weather, are filled with wonder and appreciation. The murder that is committed on the grounds is an intriguing one, even though many of the characters, and likely many of the readers as well, don't feel terribly torn up about his demise.
Looming over all of this is the indisputable rise of fascism, and a look at how it happened in Italy under Mussolini. Readers can acknowledge the parallels that exist with present-day events, or simply enjoy the mystery for the entertaining story it is.
Strauss once again brings the story alive on multiple levels, and I am happy to have received the ARC of this book. I highly recommend it, and look forward to the rest of the series, and what comes next for the characters we have come to love.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in 1929, this is the 30th book in the Ginger Gold mystery series hooks you from the beginning. Ambrosia, Dowager Lady Gold, Ginger and Basil are invited to Contessa Eleonora's estate at Lake Como in Italy who is a long time friend of Ambrosia. Hoping for some rest and relaxation they are immersed in the now fascist state of Mussolini's Italy and find they must tread lightly. Invited to dinner each night Eleonora's grandson, Filippo, her two nephews, Ugo and Alessio along with Signor Borelli, the Podesta, Capitano Scalabrini, a true fascist with power, and Falchetti a silk merchant all seem to have their secrets. When Ugo, who was well hated, even within the family, was murdered, and Alessio was the prime suspect and only suspect. It seemed to Ginger and Basil to easy a set up and the Contessa asked them to discretely look into it. They did and were getting close to solving it when Capitano Rinaldi, the investigating police came to the estate to tell Basil and Ginger they have to leave immediately along with Ambrosia, they are no longer welcome in Italy because they ask too many questions. Wow! What next. What a dark time for Italy. What great research! Who killed Ugo, what secrets are there! This was an unputdownable book that really held you until the surprising ending. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Helen Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very well written. The descriptions capture the mood of Italy under Mussolini’s rule as Ginger, Basil, and Ambrosia, Lady Gold are visiting Ambrosia’s friend, Eleanora’s estate on Lake Como. Family relations there are tense and there are always others, non family members, at dinner. Conversations during those dinners are awkward with double meanings. When one of Eleanora’s nephews is murdered and the other nephew is the main suspect, Ginger and Basil are asked to make discreet enquiries. The way the murder was done leads to multiple suspects, especially since the victim was disliked by many. How it was solved and the aftermath were unexpected.

This book discusses the changes that are occurring in Europe, especially Italy in the later 1920’s. People have given up freedoms for order. Ideas must conform to state ideas. Dissent is punished. Unfortunately some of the ideas presented are still pertinent today.

I really enjoy the characters and the way they are developed. Ginger and Basil are one of my favorite literary couples. Ambrosia, the Grandmother of Ginger’s first husband who died during WWI, is revealing further depths of character.

I’m looking forward to reading more of Ginger and Basil’s adventures.

[Linda Hurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Book

I downloaded Murder at Lake Comp the moment I discovered it had been released. I love all the Lady Gold books; but this one is really special. Basil and Ginger accompany Andromeda on a trip to Lake Como , Italy in 1929 . Italy is now run by Mussolini with an iron hand. Soldiers and police are everywhere and one had to be careful what one did or said.
While the villa they were staying was palatial and the Contessa welcoming at their first dinner when the uninvited guest include a threatening official as well as the Mayor. The nephew is gung ho on the new regime and as an art critic has gone out of his way to have art he hates as degrading and the art and the artist destroyed.
This look at Italy pre WWII was fascinating a clever mystery but watching Basil and Ginger recognizing how dangerous to personal life the New Order was and how it led to War.
I read this in one city just fascinated with this look into history that I had never known TV TV. Plus the murder plot was great I did not see who was responsible coming;which is unusual for me. 5 stars for sure.





















a





on her visit to an old friend in 1929 Italy

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder at Lake Como by Lee Strauss is the 30th Ginger Gold Mystery set in 1929 featuring Ginger, widow of Lord Daniel Gold, and her current husband Scotland Yard Chief Inspector Basil Reed.

Ginger, Basil, and Ambrosia, Dowager Lady Gold, and Daniel's grandmother are off to Italy to visit a friend of Ambrosia's on Lake Como. There are murders, difficult times sorting through relationships and secrets, and entanglements with detectives and with Mussolini's fascists. The latter makes this a darker book than most of the series.

Although this is part of a series with ongoing characters, this book can standalone. Fans of the series should note that most of the frequently occurring supporting characters are not involved, although a few are mentioned.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[T M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This mystery takes place in Mussolini’s Italy, at a villa owned by an old friend of Ambrosia’s.

The story is fast paced, with twists and turns, and for me, an unexpected ending.

There are a few things that keep me coming back to Ginger Gold mysteries. First is the historical accuracy. It is obvious that Lee Strauss spends time researching the period and getting an understanding of the political and social climate of the times. And she doesn’t limit herself to England. Second is the use of descriptions. Words are used sparingly but very effectively to set the mood. Third is the way Ginger and Basil work together. Every book seems to pull them closer together and I love that.

Murder at Lake Como is darker than many of the earlier books, which is fitting given the setting- the rise of fascism. Lee Strauss does an amazing job setting the tone that reflects the time period.

[Shauna Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

A mystery in Italy
This book will keep you engaged as you try to identify the culprit. Ginger and Basil have gone to Lake Como expecting relaxation, sun, and wonderful food. They find those things but also a nation struggling with the change. Where who you know and where your seen politically can either make your life easy and pleasant or place you in danger. Especially if you cross someone with a powerful position. Unfortunately, one of their host’s family members does just that and is found encased in plaster the next day. A wonderful story as Ginger and Basil work to find answers for the family matriarch. Such a good read. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.

[Darlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am always super excited to dive into the latest Ginger Gold mystery and book 30 did not disappoint. This time Ginger, Basil and Ambrosia travel to Italy -Lake Como specifically at the invitation of Ambrosia's school girl friend Eleanora. Instead of being the peaceful retreat they were expecting a murder occurs. Although he has no authority in Italy Eleanora asks Basil to look into the matter. The victim accumulated many enemies and Basil and Ginger have their work cut out. The location of the book Italy during Mussolini's rule was interesting but I found this book to be "darker" than the rest of the series. Although not my favorite I can't recommend this series enough and look forward to reading Ginger's next adventure. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Susan Stokell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The 30th Ginger Gold book by Lee Strauss.In the book lady Ambrosia is invited to visit an old school friend a Countess at her lake Como estate. Ginger and Basil accompany there .
As they arrive in Italy they see great efficiency in everything Italian but with an under current of unease and fear. This is the era of fascism rearing its ugly head.
Once at the estate there are many undercurrents which accumulate in murder. The victim is not a well loved person but Ginger is asked to find the culprit which of course she does.
This book has a much darker theme than usual because it is a darker time in history. As usual Lee pays minute attention to details from attire to events.
I received this as an ARC and enjoyed reading it.
I highly recommend this book and all others in the series

[Janice Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good mystery. I received this book for free and wished to leave a review. I have loved all of the Ginger Gold stories. This one ties in nicely with the history of the times and the rise of the fascist government in Italy. It underscores how governments can subvert justice and the lengths people will go to for power.
The characters were well written and the story believable. I enjoyed it.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful deception

An excellent story filled with murder, political unrest, and a vacation cut short. Lake Como was supposed to be a relaxing time with Basil and her aunt. But they come upon a rigid society that has their host and her guests uneasy. When a murder takes place, the hostess asks them to investigate. They find corruption and deceit among the police and a money laundering scheme that becomes murderous.

[J. Clark Hallmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dangerous Holiday, But Lago di Como Is Still Terrific

Another very entertaining plot. And this one is about the Lefty Italian Facists, which were founded by Benito Mussolini, a senior member of the Lefty Italian Socialist Party. My wife & I have been to Lago di Como, a fabulous area, several times on our way to Firenze from Switzerland, where we lived & I worked for 17 years.

[Bonnie Blackledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ginger, Basil, and their dog, Boss, accompany Lady Ambrosia to Italy to visit with her friend, the Contessa. I found this book to be very interesting, as I knew little about Italy in that era and what it was like living under the leadership of Mussolini. I was surprised when they discovered a murder victim covered with plaster. I was not surprised when Ginger and Basil became involved in the investigation. A great Ginger Gold mystery!

[Patricia Mccammon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in a time that I don't normally read, but won this and really enjoyed it. It brought to life the time between WW1 and the start of WW2 in Italy. A totally different way of life compared to England. A murder that involves many different types of characters . It kept my interest all the way to the end.

[Debora Ley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ginger, Basil and Boss are back and what an excellent mystery. The vivid descriptions, not only of the physical settings, but of the political scene make you feel like you're there, and the betrayals and mysteries surrounding the host family keep you guessing. An excellent book in an excellent series. Thank you!

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical Fiction or Mystery

Historical Fiction or Mystery equal amounts of both. Steady plot, the supporting characters from Italy are interesting and add to the story. The setting is rich and interesting.

[Kim Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting

But not particularly satisfactory, especially the ending. There are things left unanswered and not a lot of it really made sense, even though Ginger came to the correct conclusions. Don't get me wrong it was a good read, but I was left feeling rather dissatisfied.

[Carola Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I enjoyed this book. Ginger, Basil and Ambrosia abroad was new. I liked to read their reactions to the political situation in Italy and realise the world is in danger again.

[Cheryl Johnston · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Lovely Read!

A wonderful book as usual. An interesting look at the world before WW2. We forget what the Italians went through as so many were focused on the Germans. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Politics and murder in Lake Como.
I liked the setting. I felt I got to see a glimpse of life in Lake Como. I liked most of the characters. I wasn't sad for the murder victim. I understood the ending. I will read more by this author.

[Dawn]

I really enjoy this series, but this particular book deals with Mussolini's Italy, and I prefer not to go there, especially not at this time in our world. So, my choosing not to finish it is a reflection of me and my mental well being, not on this particular book.

[Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ginger and Basil accompany Lady Gold to Italy to visit an old school friend. Wild there they are surrounded by Mussolini's Italy, and find it repressive. When there is a murder at the villa they are staying in, Basil and Ginger start looking around, but is it safe to do so?

[Shannon]

#Goodreadsgiveaway

[Robyn Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love! Some of my favorite characters.

[Sherry Vorhaben · Rating 5 out of 5]

enjoyable

Very enjoyable as usual. I really like the way the political climate of the time was woven throughout the book.