What do you think?
Rate this book
A Jane Wunderly Mystery #7
Vengeance in Venice: A Jane Wunderly Mystery
Not yet published
Expected 1 Jul 26At long last, Jane and Redvers have arrived in Venice, the famed city of love, for their honeymoon. But behind a mask at a costume ball on the Grand Canal hides the gaze of a heartless killer…
Venice, 1927: As romantic as it is mysterious, the Floating City is a dream destination for the newlyweds, but they’ll soon discover the twisting canals hide more mystery than they expected. It begins when they are invited to an elaborate party at Clara Morton’s stunning palazzo on the Grand Canal. The affair is as eccentric as the hostess, who is dressed as Medusa, and features everything from snakes to her pet cheetah to tarot card readings.
The fete also features a fresh corpse—Clara’s ex-husband, found dead in the garden with marks around his neck. The hostess accuses the tarot card reader, who happens to be an acquaintance of Jane, claiming the woman foretold the death of someone close to her. Jane and Redvers come to the young woman’s aid as they learn she was far from the only partygoer with a motive. As the couple follows a labyrinthine trail of scandalous affairs, brazen blackmail, and people who are not who they say they are, they hope that Venice will disclose her secrets before they both end up in over their heads . . .
Venice, 1927: As romantic as it is mysterious, the Floating City is a dream destination for the newlyweds, but they’ll soon discover the twisting canals hide more mystery than they expected. It begins when they are invited to an elaborate party at Clara Morton’s stunning palazzo on the Grand Canal. The affair is as eccentric as the hostess, who is dressed as Medusa, and features everything from snakes to her pet cheetah to tarot card readings.
The fete also features a fresh corpse—Clara’s ex-husband, found dead in the garden with marks around his neck. The hostess accuses the tarot card reader, who happens to be an acquaintance of Jane, claiming the woman foretold the death of someone close to her. Jane and Redvers come to the young woman’s aid as they learn she was far from the only partygoer with a motive. As the couple follows a labyrinthine trail of scandalous affairs, brazen blackmail, and people who are not who they say they are, they hope that Venice will disclose her secrets before they both end up in over their heads . . .
500 pages, Library Binding
Expected publication July 1, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 14, 2026
Another wonderful addition to the series 🖤
April 14, 2026
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Jane and Redvers are finally on their honeymoon at one of the most romantic places on earth, but they are not alone in the Floating City. No, Millie and Lord Hughes arrive to attend a party hosted by Clara Morton, and they have invited the newlyweds to accompany them to her palazzo on the Grand Canal. The place is quite bizarre, as is their hostess, who is dressed as Medusa with live snakes. She also has a pet cheetah that she takes for nightly walks.
The gala includes something Jane and Redvers were trying to avoid: a dead body. Found in the garden with suspicious marks on his neck, he is identified as Clara’s ex-husband, poet Christopher D’Annuzzio. Clara quickly points a finger at Deanna Parks, the tarot card reader she had hired for the party. Jane had met Deanna and her husband, Charlie, in Egypt. They are vaudeville performers who will take any job they can get. Charlie always has big ideas. Deanna had revealed her cards warned that there would be a death of someone close to Clara.
Jane and Redvers want to help Deanna, and of course, Aunt Millie needs to investigate the death as well. With plenty of suspects, they will be able to keep her busy while they wade through the quagmire of secrets, lies, torrid affairs, and false identities to get to the truth and prove that Deanna is innocent.
Traveling with Jane and Redvers is always a good time. They are the ideal couple. Jane is an independent woman whose confidence grows in each story. Redvers has the knowledge, experience, and connections needed to handle everything thrown at him. He also loves his wife very much and is attentive to her needs. Jane needs vast amounts of coffee to start her day, and he lets her sleep in when he can, much to Aunt Millie’s dismay. I love how they know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and help each other. Yes, Redvers has weaknesses, one of which reared its head in this story. Lord Hughes is a laid-back gent who knows who he married. Aunt Millie demands to be involved and informed. Redvers and Jane are accustomed to her ways, and sometimes her connections are appreciated, but they know how to divert her with other tasks when necessary. Lord Hughes smiles, winks, and nods. He knows his assignment.
Now, almost as soon as Clara Morton entered the picture, her free-spiritedness and eccentricities brought Annie Mame, played by Rosalind Russell, to mind. Her palazzo, parties, travels, marriages, and friends made me feel she and Mame would be grand friends. Kate Conrad, an artist, has a romantic relationship with Clara and has painted several portraits of Clara in many states of undress. Clara’s cheetah, Carmine, was a cool cat. I love big kitties; it would be awesome to have one for a pet.
This mystery was a scandalous one. Clara insists she didn’t kill her ex-husband and names several people who could have killed Christopher D’Annuzzio. All had affairs with Clara, Christopher, or both. All the swapping of partners gave Jane pause, but she soldiered on. I enjoyed traveling around Venice and beyond on a gondola or rented boat to visit the suspects and follow the clues. The actual cause of death was held back. Through his employer, Redvers found out, and that gave them another avenue to pursue. There is a surprising development that twists up the mystery, sending Jane, Redvers, Millie, and Hughes off to revisit some of the suspects. Everyone was holding back information. A confession seemed to wrap up the case, but Jane starts to question her theories. More secrets are revealed, and then final clue fell into place for Jane. A chase ensued, and a fight was had; a sad but satisfying conclusion was reached.
Vengeance in Venice is my new favorite of the series. A tight, well-plotted, and well-written mystery with a plethora of suspects pulled me into the story. Epic twists tightened the pull. The author’s detailed descriptions of time, place, people, and food revealed her in-depth research and talent, creating a solid story that held me tight to the very last page. Genuine characters, humor, and light romance keep the book in the cozy realm.
Investigating a murder is no way to celebrate a marriage. I am excited for Jane and Redvers next adventure. Will they ever get a honeymoon and time to spend alone? I wonder what Ms. Neubauer has in store for her characters next.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Jane and Redvers are finally on their honeymoon at one of the most romantic places on earth, but they are not alone in the Floating City. No, Millie and Lord Hughes arrive to attend a party hosted by Clara Morton, and they have invited the newlyweds to accompany them to her palazzo on the Grand Canal. The place is quite bizarre, as is their hostess, who is dressed as Medusa with live snakes. She also has a pet cheetah that she takes for nightly walks.
The gala includes something Jane and Redvers were trying to avoid: a dead body. Found in the garden with suspicious marks on his neck, he is identified as Clara’s ex-husband, poet Christopher D’Annuzzio. Clara quickly points a finger at Deanna Parks, the tarot card reader she had hired for the party. Jane had met Deanna and her husband, Charlie, in Egypt. They are vaudeville performers who will take any job they can get. Charlie always has big ideas. Deanna had revealed her cards warned that there would be a death of someone close to Clara.
Jane and Redvers want to help Deanna, and of course, Aunt Millie needs to investigate the death as well. With plenty of suspects, they will be able to keep her busy while they wade through the quagmire of secrets, lies, torrid affairs, and false identities to get to the truth and prove that Deanna is innocent.
Traveling with Jane and Redvers is always a good time. They are the ideal couple. Jane is an independent woman whose confidence grows in each story. Redvers has the knowledge, experience, and connections needed to handle everything thrown at him. He also loves his wife very much and is attentive to her needs. Jane needs vast amounts of coffee to start her day, and he lets her sleep in when he can, much to Aunt Millie’s dismay. I love how they know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and help each other. Yes, Redvers has weaknesses, one of which reared its head in this story. Lord Hughes is a laid-back gent who knows who he married. Aunt Millie demands to be involved and informed. Redvers and Jane are accustomed to her ways, and sometimes her connections are appreciated, but they know how to divert her with other tasks when necessary. Lord Hughes smiles, winks, and nods. He knows his assignment.
Now, almost as soon as Clara Morton entered the picture, her free-spiritedness and eccentricities brought Annie Mame, played by Rosalind Russell, to mind. Her palazzo, parties, travels, marriages, and friends made me feel she and Mame would be grand friends. Kate Conrad, an artist, has a romantic relationship with Clara and has painted several portraits of Clara in many states of undress. Clara’s cheetah, Carmine, was a cool cat. I love big kitties; it would be awesome to have one for a pet.
This mystery was a scandalous one. Clara insists she didn’t kill her ex-husband and names several people who could have killed Christopher D’Annuzzio. All had affairs with Clara, Christopher, or both. All the swapping of partners gave Jane pause, but she soldiered on. I enjoyed traveling around Venice and beyond on a gondola or rented boat to visit the suspects and follow the clues. The actual cause of death was held back. Through his employer, Redvers found out, and that gave them another avenue to pursue. There is a surprising development that twists up the mystery, sending Jane, Redvers, Millie, and Hughes off to revisit some of the suspects. Everyone was holding back information. A confession seemed to wrap up the case, but Jane starts to question her theories. More secrets are revealed, and then final clue fell into place for Jane. A chase ensued, and a fight was had; a sad but satisfying conclusion was reached.
Vengeance in Venice is my new favorite of the series. A tight, well-plotted, and well-written mystery with a plethora of suspects pulled me into the story. Epic twists tightened the pull. The author’s detailed descriptions of time, place, people, and food revealed her in-depth research and talent, creating a solid story that held me tight to the very last page. Genuine characters, humor, and light romance keep the book in the cozy realm.
Investigating a murder is no way to celebrate a marriage. I am excited for Jane and Redvers next adventure. Will they ever get a honeymoon and time to spend alone? I wonder what Ms. Neubauer has in store for her characters next.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
April 3, 2026
Startling Venice! Murder and more!
Another delightful mystery set in one of my favorite cities—Venice.
Redvers and Jane finally slip away for their honeymoon to that charming place, when much to their surprise they are joined at their hotel by Aunt Millie and Lord Hughes.
Aunt Millie invites them to a costume ball thrown by the very eccentric Clara Ann Morton, an heiress who walks a leopard on a leash, has a snake around her shoulders, and wears a gown that is entirely see through! Oh my! Risqué even for the ‘20’s.
Of course there’s a murder in Clara’s Palazzo gardens that night. Of course a friend of Jane’s is blamed—a friend Jane didn’t realize would be here.
Their quiet honeymoon turns into an investigation with a cast of thousands who could be the perpetrator. Colin and Jane, along with help from Aunt Millie, are determined to finding the culprit. Then begin their honeymoon.
I loved Neubauer’s descriptions of Venice and the delightful restaurant they found.
A pleasing and cosy mystery, with a few humorous incidences.
A Kensington ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Another delightful mystery set in one of my favorite cities—Venice.
Redvers and Jane finally slip away for their honeymoon to that charming place, when much to their surprise they are joined at their hotel by Aunt Millie and Lord Hughes.
Aunt Millie invites them to a costume ball thrown by the very eccentric Clara Ann Morton, an heiress who walks a leopard on a leash, has a snake around her shoulders, and wears a gown that is entirely see through! Oh my! Risqué even for the ‘20’s.
Of course there’s a murder in Clara’s Palazzo gardens that night. Of course a friend of Jane’s is blamed—a friend Jane didn’t realize would be here.
Their quiet honeymoon turns into an investigation with a cast of thousands who could be the perpetrator. Colin and Jane, along with help from Aunt Millie, are determined to finding the culprit. Then begin their honeymoon.
I loved Neubauer’s descriptions of Venice and the delightful restaurant they found.
A pleasing and cosy mystery, with a few humorous incidences.
A Kensington ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
April 15, 2026
This was a very good mystery with MANY twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end [and left me very surprised, which is both unusual AND refreshing].
Millie is not the only unlikable character in this one [I really missed the softer Millie from several books ago], and I'd actually be hard-pressed to pick the one that annoyed me the most as there were so many to choose from; it made the suspect list V E R Y long! LOL
Venice [a place I have wanted to visit for a very long time, as well as Murano, which they also visit in this book] is very muh a part of the story and I loved the descriptions and 'feel' of that amazing city through the eyes of Jane and Redvers within these pages and I feel it really added to the overall story and just made me want to hop on a plane and actually visit there.
I really love this series and I am so glad that I got to read Jane and Redvers new adventure.
Thank you to NetGalley, Erica Ruth Neubauer, and Kensington Publishing/Kensington for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Millie is not the only unlikable character in this one [I really missed the softer Millie from several books ago], and I'd actually be hard-pressed to pick the one that annoyed me the most as there were so many to choose from; it made the suspect list V E R Y long! LOL
Venice [a place I have wanted to visit for a very long time, as well as Murano, which they also visit in this book] is very muh a part of the story and I loved the descriptions and 'feel' of that amazing city through the eyes of Jane and Redvers within these pages and I feel it really added to the overall story and just made me want to hop on a plane and actually visit there.
I really love this series and I am so glad that I got to read Jane and Redvers new adventure.
Thank you to NetGalley, Erica Ruth Neubauer, and Kensington Publishing/Kensington for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2026
Another reviewer referenced "mid-series plot fatigue," and that's a good description of how I was feeling, trying to slog through this.
April 11, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have enjoyed the Jane Wunderly cozy mysteries since they first came out. To say I was stoked to read the next volume in the series is an understatement. All the things I love about historical fiction mysteries are in this series: early 20th century setting, the upper-class environment, the jet-setting (before there were jets), a strong female character with a mate who is equally supportive, this book hits all the right spots.
Jane, as usual, is navigating a male-dominated world, and I love the friction she presents in the 1920s society. Jane’s family dynamics are complicated. Her aunt is a piece of work; if you’ve read the other books in the series, it’s always been obvious. When she shows up in Vengeance in Venice, you know there’s going to be some DRAMA.
I’ve always enjoyed the relationship of Jane and Redvers. It seemed like they could finally have the honeymoon they wanted after their impromptu wedding, but alas, someone drops dead at a party, and one of Jane’s friends is the prime suspect. So, Jane and Redvers put on their sleuthing caps to solve the mystery.
If you’re looking for a Golden Age mystery with a strong female lead, the Jane Wunderly series is for you.
I have enjoyed the Jane Wunderly cozy mysteries since they first came out. To say I was stoked to read the next volume in the series is an understatement. All the things I love about historical fiction mysteries are in this series: early 20th century setting, the upper-class environment, the jet-setting (before there were jets), a strong female character with a mate who is equally supportive, this book hits all the right spots.
Jane, as usual, is navigating a male-dominated world, and I love the friction she presents in the 1920s society. Jane’s family dynamics are complicated. Her aunt is a piece of work; if you’ve read the other books in the series, it’s always been obvious. When she shows up in Vengeance in Venice, you know there’s going to be some DRAMA.
I’ve always enjoyed the relationship of Jane and Redvers. It seemed like they could finally have the honeymoon they wanted after their impromptu wedding, but alas, someone drops dead at a party, and one of Jane’s friends is the prime suspect. So, Jane and Redvers put on their sleuthing caps to solve the mystery.
If you’re looking for a Golden Age mystery with a strong female lead, the Jane Wunderly series is for you.
April 1, 2026
Another delightful romp with Jane and Redvers. Man they cannot catch a break, but I know they actually love getting embroiled in mysteries during the travels together. I was completely confounded by this mystery and so impressed by the way they were able to carefully tug at the strands until everything unraveled. I loved reading about Venice during this time period and so long to go back and have a languishing dinner by the canals. The writing is superb as usual and there were so many shocks along the way. Even the characters that weren't super endearing, were at least dramatic and interesting and Jane and Redvers were still willing to stand up for them, despite any faults. I also really enjoy the author bringing back characters from previous books. This was a lot of drama and a good time!
Audiobook note: As always this narrator did a fabulous job with not only Jane and Redvers, but all the eccentric characters in this story. She is a favorite of mine for historical cozies!
Thanks to the publisher for a free ARC; my thoughts and review are my own.
Audiobook note: As always this narrator did a fabulous job with not only Jane and Redvers, but all the eccentric characters in this story. She is a favorite of mine for historical cozies!
Thanks to the publisher for a free ARC; my thoughts and review are my own.
May 13, 2026
It appears to be the last one in the series but I hope there will be more.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Vengeance in Venice is the seventh full-length novel in Erica Ruth Neubauer's Jane Wunderly series, set in the 1920s in various locations around the world. The adventurous Jane is an American war widow whose abusive first husband was killed in World War I. Now she is much more happily married to the Englishman Redvers, who conducts secret missions for the British government. Jane is a full partner in Redvers' investigations, and their witty dialogue is one of the outstanding features of the series. The couple met in Egypt in the first novel, Murder at the Mena House, and their adventures have taken them to, among other places, Istanbul, a Scottish island, and, most recently, India. The series also includes a delightful Christmas novella, Murder Under the Mistletoe, which should not be missed. Part of the fun of the series is trying to figure out where Jane's and Redvers' adventures will take them next.
This novel takes them to one of my favorite cities, Venice. Jane and Redvers are on their long-delayed honeymoon when they run into Jane's Aunt Millie and her husband, Lord Hughes, at their lovely Venetian hotel. Aunt Millie likes to take charge wherever she goes, and she frequently interferes in Jane's investigations, something which Redvers tends to take more easily than Jane. Lord Hughes is quieter, and he is a calming influence on his wife. Millie arrives with an invitation from a friend of hers, Clara Morton, a wealthy American woman, to a costume party at Clara's palazzo.
The party is an extravagant one, and the hostess is eccentric and keeps unusual pets, including a cheetah and several snakes. A dead body is found in the garden, and it turns out to be Clara's ex-husband, the poet Christopher D'Annuzzio, who is very loosely based on the famous Italian poet Gabriele D'Annunzio. (As Neubauer says in her author's note, Clara is inspired by an heiress who had an affair with the real D'Annunzio.) At first it is not known whether the fictional D'Annuzzio died of natural causes or murder, but of course, this being a mystery, it is murder. The police arrive and find marks on D'Annuzzio's neck, confirming that he was murdered. What they don't tell anyone, and what Redvers learns through his government connections, is that the actual cause of death was snake venom, not strangulation.
Suspicion immediately falls on Deanna Parks, an acquaintance of Jane's. Deanna and her husband, Charlie, are vaudeville performers Jane met in Egypt in the first book in the series. Deanna is reading tarot cards at the party and, before the party began, D'Annuzzio had touched her inappropriately and she had kicked him. Deanna knows how to handle snakes, which is another reason the police suspect her. Soon she is arrested and sent to jail. Jane, of course, is certain Deanna is innocent, and she and Redvers, with help (sometimes welcome, sometimes not) from Millie and Hughes, decide to find the real murderer and prove her friend's innocence.
One of the first people Jane suspects is Clara, but she insists she didn't kill her ex-husband, and she names several people, all guests at the party, who had motives to kill him. All of these people, at one time or another, had affairs with Clara or D'Annuzzio or both. Jane is by no means a prude, but this frequent swapping of partners shocks her. Jane and Redvers travel over the canals of Venice by gondola or rented boat to interview the suspects, many of whom are quite unsympathetic. The most likeable of the lot is Kate Conrad, a painter who is in a romantic relationship with Clara. Kate was all set to have a solo exhibition, which is what she always dreamed of, when D'Annuzzio ruined her plans. There is also a Spanish musician who seems to have had a same-sex relationship with D'Annuzzio. Other suspects include a brother and sister who, Jane thinks, are more intimate with each other than a pair of siblings should be, and a young woman who is a friend of the siblings and keeps changing her lodgings, first living in D'Annuzzio's apartment and then with the siblings.
Jane's and Redvers' interviews with this group of suspects seem to go nowhere, and then more suspects turn up: Clara's first husband, who has lost his fortune and wants to remarry Clara for her money, and their troubled teenage daughter. Then Jane learns that Deanna's husband, Charlie, was at the party in disguise when he was supposed to have stayed home. His behavior is suspicious, to say the least, and he runs off when things start looking bad for him.
Millie decides to gather all the suspects together at another dinner party at Clara's palazzo, hoping to find the real murderer. It does not go as expected, and instead of the revelation of the murderer, there is another death, in circumstances where you don't know if the person who dies is the intended victim or not. Jane and Redvers are determined to find the killer before anyone else is killed.
This is a wonderful addition to the series, not least because of the Venetian setting. I love Neubauer's descriptions of Venice and, having been there myself, I know she gets it right. She writes mouth-watering descriptions of the Italian food Jane and Redvers eat at their favorite restaurant. Jane loves coffee and develops a taste for Italian espresso. Neubauer's sense of setting is one of the great strengths of her series. The novel takes many turns, including one shocking one about halfway through, which I will not reveal because it would be a spoiler. Neubauer keeps you guessing, and I did not figure out who the killer was until the end. I highly recommend this series to fans of Tasha Alexander, Dianne Freeman, Alyssa Maxwell, and Elizabeth Peters' Amelia Peabody series. The relationship between Jane and Redvers reminds me, at times, of Amelia and Emerson. Each book stands alone, but I would recommend beginning with the first one, so you can see how the relationship develops. I am already looking forward to finding out where Jane and Redvers will go in their next adventure.
This novel takes them to one of my favorite cities, Venice. Jane and Redvers are on their long-delayed honeymoon when they run into Jane's Aunt Millie and her husband, Lord Hughes, at their lovely Venetian hotel. Aunt Millie likes to take charge wherever she goes, and she frequently interferes in Jane's investigations, something which Redvers tends to take more easily than Jane. Lord Hughes is quieter, and he is a calming influence on his wife. Millie arrives with an invitation from a friend of hers, Clara Morton, a wealthy American woman, to a costume party at Clara's palazzo.
The party is an extravagant one, and the hostess is eccentric and keeps unusual pets, including a cheetah and several snakes. A dead body is found in the garden, and it turns out to be Clara's ex-husband, the poet Christopher D'Annuzzio, who is very loosely based on the famous Italian poet Gabriele D'Annunzio. (As Neubauer says in her author's note, Clara is inspired by an heiress who had an affair with the real D'Annunzio.) At first it is not known whether the fictional D'Annuzzio died of natural causes or murder, but of course, this being a mystery, it is murder. The police arrive and find marks on D'Annuzzio's neck, confirming that he was murdered. What they don't tell anyone, and what Redvers learns through his government connections, is that the actual cause of death was snake venom, not strangulation.
Suspicion immediately falls on Deanna Parks, an acquaintance of Jane's. Deanna and her husband, Charlie, are vaudeville performers Jane met in Egypt in the first book in the series. Deanna is reading tarot cards at the party and, before the party began, D'Annuzzio had touched her inappropriately and she had kicked him. Deanna knows how to handle snakes, which is another reason the police suspect her. Soon she is arrested and sent to jail. Jane, of course, is certain Deanna is innocent, and she and Redvers, with help (sometimes welcome, sometimes not) from Millie and Hughes, decide to find the real murderer and prove her friend's innocence.
One of the first people Jane suspects is Clara, but she insists she didn't kill her ex-husband, and she names several people, all guests at the party, who had motives to kill him. All of these people, at one time or another, had affairs with Clara or D'Annuzzio or both. Jane is by no means a prude, but this frequent swapping of partners shocks her. Jane and Redvers travel over the canals of Venice by gondola or rented boat to interview the suspects, many of whom are quite unsympathetic. The most likeable of the lot is Kate Conrad, a painter who is in a romantic relationship with Clara. Kate was all set to have a solo exhibition, which is what she always dreamed of, when D'Annuzzio ruined her plans. There is also a Spanish musician who seems to have had a same-sex relationship with D'Annuzzio. Other suspects include a brother and sister who, Jane thinks, are more intimate with each other than a pair of siblings should be, and a young woman who is a friend of the siblings and keeps changing her lodgings, first living in D'Annuzzio's apartment and then with the siblings.
Jane's and Redvers' interviews with this group of suspects seem to go nowhere, and then more suspects turn up: Clara's first husband, who has lost his fortune and wants to remarry Clara for her money, and their troubled teenage daughter. Then Jane learns that Deanna's husband, Charlie, was at the party in disguise when he was supposed to have stayed home. His behavior is suspicious, to say the least, and he runs off when things start looking bad for him.
Millie decides to gather all the suspects together at another dinner party at Clara's palazzo, hoping to find the real murderer. It does not go as expected, and instead of the revelation of the murderer, there is another death, in circumstances where you don't know if the person who dies is the intended victim or not. Jane and Redvers are determined to find the killer before anyone else is killed.
This is a wonderful addition to the series, not least because of the Venetian setting. I love Neubauer's descriptions of Venice and, having been there myself, I know she gets it right. She writes mouth-watering descriptions of the Italian food Jane and Redvers eat at their favorite restaurant. Jane loves coffee and develops a taste for Italian espresso. Neubauer's sense of setting is one of the great strengths of her series. The novel takes many turns, including one shocking one about halfway through, which I will not reveal because it would be a spoiler. Neubauer keeps you guessing, and I did not figure out who the killer was until the end. I highly recommend this series to fans of Tasha Alexander, Dianne Freeman, Alyssa Maxwell, and Elizabeth Peters' Amelia Peabody series. The relationship between Jane and Redvers reminds me, at times, of Amelia and Emerson. Each book stands alone, but I would recommend beginning with the first one, so you can see how the relationship develops. I am already looking forward to finding out where Jane and Redvers will go in their next adventure.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
VENGEANCE IN VENICE by Erica Ruth Neubauer
The Seventh Jane Wunderly Mystery
After an impromptu wedding in Scotland, nearly getting killed on a business trip in India, and becoming bored back in London, Jane Wunderly and Redvers decide to go on an actual honeymoon. Traveling to Italy their romantic trip takes an unexpected turn when Aunt Millie and her husband check into the very same hotel! They have been invited to Venice and a costume party by Millie's new friend, socialite Clara Morton, and insist that Jane and Redvers accompany them to the event. Surprised by the dilapidated looking palazzo they're stunned by what waits for them inside. It's a carnival with acrobats and even a Tarot reader, who just happens to be a young woman Jane met years ago in India. Even more shocking than the half dressed hostess with a boa constrictor draped around her is the dead body of her ex-husband in the garden. With Clara accusing Deanna, the Tarot reader, of murder Jane and Redvers find themselves spending their honeymoon on the hunt for a killer.
I absolutely love this series and one of my favorite things about it is the various places I get to visit vicariously. Visiting Venice was a real treat with descriptions of the canals ancient streets, and architectural details, not to mention the food, even though I dislike seafood. It was fascinating as it didn't dawn on me that people could rent boats and travel via the canals alongside the gondoliers.
VENGEANCE IN VENICE is filled with unforgettable characters. Aunt Millie is back, making me laugh at her outlandish ways, but its the scandalous Clara Morton who is truly one of a kind. Revealing clothing that leaves her practically nude, exotic pets ( I love Carmine!) and avante garde behavior make her truly memorable, if not very likeable. What's even more amazing is that this character is based on a real person! The cast of unconventional and generally unpleasant characters became a hodgepodge of suspects and motives and made Jane and Redvers all the more appealing in their steadfast approach to their investigation and each other.
A honeymoon turned murder investigation VENGEANCE IN VENICE brings 1920s Venice to life. I look forward to seeing what exploits our intrepid couple encounter next!
The Seventh Jane Wunderly Mystery
After an impromptu wedding in Scotland, nearly getting killed on a business trip in India, and becoming bored back in London, Jane Wunderly and Redvers decide to go on an actual honeymoon. Traveling to Italy their romantic trip takes an unexpected turn when Aunt Millie and her husband check into the very same hotel! They have been invited to Venice and a costume party by Millie's new friend, socialite Clara Morton, and insist that Jane and Redvers accompany them to the event. Surprised by the dilapidated looking palazzo they're stunned by what waits for them inside. It's a carnival with acrobats and even a Tarot reader, who just happens to be a young woman Jane met years ago in India. Even more shocking than the half dressed hostess with a boa constrictor draped around her is the dead body of her ex-husband in the garden. With Clara accusing Deanna, the Tarot reader, of murder Jane and Redvers find themselves spending their honeymoon on the hunt for a killer.
I absolutely love this series and one of my favorite things about it is the various places I get to visit vicariously. Visiting Venice was a real treat with descriptions of the canals ancient streets, and architectural details, not to mention the food, even though I dislike seafood. It was fascinating as it didn't dawn on me that people could rent boats and travel via the canals alongside the gondoliers.
VENGEANCE IN VENICE is filled with unforgettable characters. Aunt Millie is back, making me laugh at her outlandish ways, but its the scandalous Clara Morton who is truly one of a kind. Revealing clothing that leaves her practically nude, exotic pets ( I love Carmine!) and avante garde behavior make her truly memorable, if not very likeable. What's even more amazing is that this character is based on a real person! The cast of unconventional and generally unpleasant characters became a hodgepodge of suspects and motives and made Jane and Redvers all the more appealing in their steadfast approach to their investigation and each other.
A honeymoon turned murder investigation VENGEANCE IN VENICE brings 1920s Venice to life. I look forward to seeing what exploits our intrepid couple encounter next!
April 1, 2026
While Jane and Redvers got married several months ago, they are now taking the time for a proper honeymoon in September of 1927. They are looking forward to relaxing days exploring the city and eating the delicious cuisine. Which is when Aunt Millie and her new husband crash the trip. Millie has gotten the two couples an invitation to a party hosted by her friend Clara Morton, who turns out to be quite the eccentric. Jane and Redvers are hoping to slip away early, but their plans are scrapped when a dead body is found in the garden. When a friend that Jane has just reunited with becomes the prime suspect, honeymoon plans get put on hold to solve this latest murder. Can Jane free her friend?
Someday, I want to visit Venice, but traveling with Jane was the next best thing. I felt like I was there with her and the fun group of suspects. There were plenty of secrets and twists along the way to a satisfying climax, although a couple of things didn’t wrap up quite as well as I would have liked. Aunt Millie is a hoot as always. And Jane and Redvers get plenty of time to shine. I love their relationship, and I had to laugh with them several times as I read reading. Anyone looking for a light historical mystery will be glad they picked this one up.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Someday, I want to visit Venice, but traveling with Jane was the next best thing. I felt like I was there with her and the fun group of suspects. There were plenty of secrets and twists along the way to a satisfying climax, although a couple of things didn’t wrap up quite as well as I would have liked. Aunt Millie is a hoot as always. And Jane and Redvers get plenty of time to shine. I love their relationship, and I had to laugh with them several times as I read reading. Anyone looking for a light historical mystery will be glad they picked this one up.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have really enjoyed this entire series and how the main characters in particular have grown and developed throughout. This one has so many of the same elements I’ve loved in the rest of the series but fell a little short of its predecessors for me, mainly I think because it was harder to care about the supporting characters than in past books. This one has Jane and Redvers on their belated honeymoon in Venice when Aunt Millie turns up and draws them into another investigation after a death at the home of a friend of Millie’s. Jane and Redvers remain a delight, and it’s lovely to see their happy and supportive relationship. Millie remains a good foil, but the characters specific to this case had few enough redeeming qualities that it was hard to be as invested in the outcome. Again, still a thoroughly enjoyable book with a fantastic setting, just fell a little short for me of the high bar of the series. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy. All views are entirely my own and offered voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Vengeance in Venice is the latest book in the Jane Wunderly mystery series. I really enjoyed this book. The setting of Venice was both romantic and mysterious and it was the perfect place for Jane and Redvers to visit next. It’s always fun when Jane and Redvers get their hands on a new mystery and even better when her Aunt shows up to help. The characters in Venice were mostly not that likeable, so it was easy to picture any of them as a murderer and it was hard to figure out who finally did it. This mystery took lots of twists and turns and I could really picture Jane and Revers floating around the canals of Venice trying to figure it out. The way Jane’s relationship with her husband has developed really adds to my enjoyment of this series. She is a real partner to him in a time when many women wouldn’t have had that right and it’s so wonderful to read about that.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jane and Redvers are finally getting a proper honeymoon after their impromptu wedding... at least until Aunt Millie shows up with Lord Hughes in tow. When someone drops dead at a party thrown by one of Aunt Millie's confidants and one of Jane's friends is blamed for the crime, Jane and Redvers are forced to put their investigative skills to the test once again.
As per usual, Jane and Redvers are a delightful pair and the mystery itself was twisty enough to keep things interesting. Neubauer also has a wonderful way with establishing setting in each of her books, and this one was no exception. I've enjoyed the growth shown by Jane since the first book, but I'm ready for Aunt Millie to show a bit of it as well. Her bullying feels particularly egregious in this installment, which I couldn't help but find annoying.
4/5 stars. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment! Thank you to netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As per usual, Jane and Redvers are a delightful pair and the mystery itself was twisty enough to keep things interesting. Neubauer also has a wonderful way with establishing setting in each of her books, and this one was no exception. I've enjoyed the growth shown by Jane since the first book, but I'm ready for Aunt Millie to show a bit of it as well. Her bullying feels particularly egregious in this installment, which I couldn't help but find annoying.
4/5 stars. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment! Thank you to netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Venice, 1927: As romantic as it is mysterious, the Floating City is a dream destination for the honeymoon of newlyweds, Jane and Redvers but they’ll soon discover the twisting canals hide more mystery than they expected. It begins when they are invited to an elaborate party at Clara Morton’s stunning palazzo on the Grand Canal. The affair is as eccentric as the hostess, who is dressed as Medusa, and features everything from snakes to her pet cheetah to tarot card readings. The fete also features a fresh corpse—Clara’s ex-husband, found dead in the garden with marks around his neck. As the couple follow a labyrinthine trail of scandalous affairs, brazen blackmail, and people who are not who they say they are, they hope that Venice will disclose her secrets before they both end up in over their heads
The series takes us to Venice but poor Redvers & Jane aren’t destined for a relaxing honeymoon & are soon on the trail of a murderer, they are abetted by Aunt Millie. Another well written entertaining book which I thoroughly enjoyed. I really like both Jane & Redvers & have loved how their relationship has deepened & grown throughout the series. I look forward to their next adventure
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The series takes us to Venice but poor Redvers & Jane aren’t destined for a relaxing honeymoon & are soon on the trail of a murderer, they are abetted by Aunt Millie. Another well written entertaining book which I thoroughly enjoyed. I really like both Jane & Redvers & have loved how their relationship has deepened & grown throughout the series. I look forward to their next adventure
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
April 8, 2026
3 1/2 stars. Jane and Redvers are finally on their honeymoon in romantic Venice. However, their bliss is soon interrupted by the arrival of Aunt Millie and her invitation to a fancy party where they discover the hostess' ex-husband dead in the garden. So begins a twisty tale with plenty of suspects, outrageous characters, beautiful scenery and great food.
I love how the relationship between Jane and Redvers has continued to grow. And Aunt Millie shows some unsuspected depth though still very much the one who is always interfering, wants to be in charge and ready with her critical tongue. Venice is very much a character in this story that is filled with not so likeable characters but you will love the descriptions of the scenery and food. This definitely had twists that I didn't see coming. A solid addition to the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I love how the relationship between Jane and Redvers has continued to grow. And Aunt Millie shows some unsuspected depth though still very much the one who is always interfering, wants to be in charge and ready with her critical tongue. Venice is very much a character in this story that is filled with not so likeable characters but you will love the descriptions of the scenery and food. This definitely had twists that I didn't see coming. A solid addition to the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It is Venice, 1927 for this episode of Jane Wonderly and her devoted husband, Redvers. Vengeance In Venice by Erica Ruth Neubauer is the 7th installment to the fun Jane Wonderly series. I enjoy the descriptions of food served and the landmarks. The honeymoon couple seems to have one big surprise after another on what was supposed to be their "alone" time. When Aunt Millie books into their hotel, Jane and Redvers know the quiet is over.
I like the characters and their adventures with large snakes and big cats. Neubauer has a way with descriptive narratives that is very appealing.
Recommended for readers who enjoy Rhys Bowen and Anna Huber.
My thanks to #NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #EricaRuthNeubauer for the opportunity to read and review an e-copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#VengeanceinVenice #JaneWonderlySeries
I like the characters and their adventures with large snakes and big cats. Neubauer has a way with descriptive narratives that is very appealing.
Recommended for readers who enjoy Rhys Bowen and Anna Huber.
My thanks to #NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #EricaRuthNeubauer for the opportunity to read and review an e-copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#VengeanceinVenice #JaneWonderlySeries
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A suspicious death and a host of suspects.
The first book I have read by this author and I’m pleased to say I didn’t guess the killer. I must say the Venetian police seemed to do very little investigating, I certainly didn’t understand why they arrested the least likely suspect. Luckily for that lady, Redvers and Jane, despite being on their honeymoon, were quickly on the case. I would have enjoyed a little more romantic interaction between the H and h, other than a couple of foody dinners but I guess this is not in the romantic mystery genre.
Although one in a series, can be read as a standalone.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The first book I have read by this author and I’m pleased to say I didn’t guess the killer. I must say the Venetian police seemed to do very little investigating, I certainly didn’t understand why they arrested the least likely suspect. Luckily for that lady, Redvers and Jane, despite being on their honeymoon, were quickly on the case. I would have enjoyed a little more romantic interaction between the H and h, other than a couple of foody dinners but I guess this is not in the romantic mystery genre.
Although one in a series, can be read as a standalone.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 5, 2026
Jane and Redvers are on their honeymoon and enjoying their time alone. Except they're not as alone as they used to be since Aunt Millie has not only found them in Italy, she's insisting that they attend a party with her.
The soiree is being thrown by Clara, an heiress to the Morton salt company. She's eccentric and rude and Jane is stymied as to how she is a friend of Millie's. It's equally strange that this particular get-together includes a murder, that of Clara's second ex-husband, an Italian poet. The police immediately latch onto Clara's secretary, a woman Jane has met before.
The search for the killer will introduce Jane to a new kind of detective (inspettore) and cause her to question whether she is at good at reading people as she thinks she is.
The soiree is being thrown by Clara, an heiress to the Morton salt company. She's eccentric and rude and Jane is stymied as to how she is a friend of Millie's. It's equally strange that this particular get-together includes a murder, that of Clara's second ex-husband, an Italian poet. The police immediately latch onto Clara's secretary, a woman Jane has met before.
The search for the killer will introduce Jane to a new kind of detective (inspettore) and cause her to question whether she is at good at reading people as she thinks she is.
April 16, 2026
Your honeymoon is not a time you want to be concerned about murders and conspiracies but Jane and Redvers are unwittingly drawn into one after attending a dinner where they were unwillingly taken to by their overbearing Aunt. The hostess Clara was a strange bird to say the least and the evening ended with her ex husband (also a guest) found poisoned.
The investigations are convoluted to say the least. Every character present at the dinner had a complicated history - there were relationships on top of more complicated ones, blackmail, secrets galore, envy and greed and money being one of the main reasons for the envy and animosity. Sifting through it all with the scenic city of Venice as a background was no hardship for this reader.
The investigations are convoluted to say the least. Every character present at the dinner had a complicated history - there were relationships on top of more complicated ones, blackmail, secrets galore, envy and greed and money being one of the main reasons for the envy and animosity. Sifting through it all with the scenic city of Venice as a background was no hardship for this reader.
December 10, 2025
3.5 stars
Another historical mystery featuring Jane Wunderly and her newlywed husband Redvers. They are still recovering from the peril of their last case in India and are attempting to have a relaxing honeymoon in Venice. Two things sabotage that: the appearance of Jane's overbearing Aunt Millie, and the discovery of a murdered guest at a party they are attending.
One of Jane's friends is implicated, so naturally she and Redvers investigate with the sometimes unwelcome assistance of Aunt Millie. The location is fun, suspects abound and the narrative moves right along. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another historical mystery featuring Jane Wunderly and her newlywed husband Redvers. They are still recovering from the peril of their last case in India and are attempting to have a relaxing honeymoon in Venice. Two things sabotage that: the appearance of Jane's overbearing Aunt Millie, and the discovery of a murdered guest at a party they are attending.
One of Jane's friends is implicated, so naturally she and Redvers investigate with the sometimes unwelcome assistance of Aunt Millie. The location is fun, suspects abound and the narrative moves right along. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jane and Redvers are finally in Venice on their honeymoon. Shortly after they move into their hotel, Jane's Aunt Millie and her new husband, Lord Hughes arrive there as well. They are all invited to a party given by Millie's friend Clara. At the party, Clara's former husband is found dead. Clara claims the killer is Deanne, a friend of Jane. Jane and Redvers discover that the dead man was killed by snake venom, but they can't seem to get the police to realize that Deanne is innocent of murder. They encounter lots of secrets as they continue their investigations. There are lots of folks with reasons to dislike the murdered man, and it takes lots of investigating to finally find the culprit.
I thank Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for giving me an ARC so that I could read this book before publication.
I thank Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for giving me an ARC so that I could read this book before publication.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Vengeance in Venice set in 1927 is the 7th book in the Jane Wunderly Mystery Series. Recently married, Jane and her husband Redvers are honeymooning in Venice. Jane's aunt Millie and her husband are also in Venice. They are all invited to a party hosted by Millie's friend Clara. Clara's husband is murdered. A Tarot card reader, friend of Jane's from a previous book, is accused. The mystery, descriptions of Venice, and interactions of the main and supporting characters are interesting, but not the best in the series. While the book can certainly be read as a standalone, having read the earlier books could lead to a better understanding of the characters.
April 20, 2026
I read a lot of ARCs, and some you start and just know that they are not for you. This is the first book by this author that I have read, and I loved it from the first page. The characters were well written and engaging, and the storyline full of twists and turns and unexpected surprises, which kept me guessing till the end. I am sorry I haven’t read the books before, and will now have to go and find them. This book can be read as a standalone, but I would have liked to read the books before. I now look forward to reading more in the future. I received this as an ARC from Netgalley and freely give my review.
February 18, 2026
Jane and Redvers are at it again. On their honeymoon, Aunt Millie arrives suddenly and leads the newlyweds into a new mystery (and murder) with her eccentric friend at the center.
I really enjoy the banter and relationship between Jane and Redvers. They make for a really fun read and their personalities balance each other. The setting if 1920s Venice made for a unique backdrop, and I loved how they explored across the canals. Overall a quick and engaging read.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #KensingtonPublishing for an ARC
I really enjoy the banter and relationship between Jane and Redvers. They make for a really fun read and their personalities balance each other. The setting if 1920s Venice made for a unique backdrop, and I loved how they explored across the canals. Overall a quick and engaging read.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #KensingtonPublishing for an ARC
April 8, 2026
This series is one of my all time favs. The time period is popular with me and I love that sleuths have to use old school skills - no cell phones or computers. I love that each title takes us to a different exotic place and I get to experience that. I love when Aunt Millie and Lord Hughes are part of the story. Aunt Millie cracks me up. Things didn't wrap up as neatly at the end of this story but still a fabulous read. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eArc in exchange for a review.
April 14, 2026
Venice, 1927: A newlywed couple's romantic getaway turns into a dangerous investigation when a murder occurs at an eccentric palazzo party. Jane and Redvers uncover scandalous affairs, blackmail, and hidden identities in their quest to unravel Venice's secrets—and avoid becoming the next victims.
This clever historical mystery kept me guessing until the end. I enjoyed the Venetian setting. Though I haven’t read the previous books in the series, I was able to understand this one without any confusion.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This clever historical mystery kept me guessing until the end. I enjoyed the Venetian setting. Though I haven’t read the previous books in the series, I was able to understand this one without any confusion.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
April 15, 2026
Another great addition to the series! I love how the setting is incorporated so well into the story, becoming another character in the story. I learned so much about Venice in the early 1900s and their rather loose societal mores in the upper classes. Jane and Redvers work so well together, and I enjoyed the time spent with Millie as well; she’s always good for a laugh. The mystery was well-paced and had me guessing until the very end. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the review copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
fun murder mystery with some good characters and effective vibes throughout. It built up well to have an effective final reveal, and the plotting was pretty unique, as well. I'd definitely recommend this one quite a lot.
5 stars. tysm for the arc.
If you want to get honest reviews of some of the most exciting books coming out every week from a top-5 Goodreads Reviewer, sign up for my mailing list here!
5 stars. tysm for the arc.
If you want to get honest reviews of some of the most exciting books coming out every week from a top-5 Goodreads Reviewer, sign up for my mailing list here!
April 19, 2026
At long last, Jane and Redvers have arrived in Venice, the famed city of love, for their honeymoon. But can these two actually go anywhere without helping to solve a murder? The answer is no, and for that I am so glad. I adore this historical mystery series – especially delightful on audio. I love to travel with this couple and they are the perfect pair. They know each other so well, and support each each other. This mystery had a more scandalous nature that others, but that didn’t stop this duo. Wonderful historical details made me feel like I was actually in Venice in the year 1927
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews