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Italian Chef Mysteries #2
It Cannoli Be Murder
It's time to serve some just desserts...
Six months after her husband's death, Tessa Esposito is hoping to drum up reservations for her restaurant's grand opening. And since a signing with bestselling author, Preston Rigotta, is sure to draw a crowd, Tessa agrees to cater her cousin's bookstore event--whipping up some of her famous Italian desserts. But the event soon takes a sour turn when Preston's publicist, an old high school rival, arrives and begins to whisk up their old grudges.
That night, a fight breaks out in front of the crowd, and it becomes clear there's bad blood in Harvest Park. And when the publicist is found dead on the bookstore floor the next morning, a stray cannolo at her side, Tessa knows who will be framed as the prime suspect.
To clear both her cousin's and her own name, Tessa must investigate the murder. But Preston's publicist has many secrets to hide, and in the end, the truth is bittersweet...
The second book in the Italian Chef Cozy Mystery series!
Six months after her husband's death, Tessa Esposito is hoping to drum up reservations for her restaurant's grand opening. And since a signing with bestselling author, Preston Rigotta, is sure to draw a crowd, Tessa agrees to cater her cousin's bookstore event--whipping up some of her famous Italian desserts. But the event soon takes a sour turn when Preston's publicist, an old high school rival, arrives and begins to whisk up their old grudges.
That night, a fight breaks out in front of the crowd, and it becomes clear there's bad blood in Harvest Park. And when the publicist is found dead on the bookstore floor the next morning, a stray cannolo at her side, Tessa knows who will be framed as the prime suspect.
To clear both her cousin's and her own name, Tessa must investigate the murder. But Preston's publicist has many secrets to hide, and in the end, the truth is bittersweet...
The second book in the Italian Chef Cozy Mystery series!
400 pages, Paperback
First published July 28, 2020
48 people are currently reading
2630 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Bruns
61 books906 followersCatherine is the USA Today bestselling author of the Cookies & Chance mysteries. She lives in Upstate New York with her very patient husband, three sons and several spoiled pets. She holds a dual B.A. in English and Performing Arts and is a former newspaper reporter and press release writer. Catherine also writes the Italian Chef, Maple Syrup, and Cindy York mysteries. Her book, For Sale by Killer, won the Daphne du Maurier award for Mainstream Mystery/Suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
May 21, 2024
This is a cozy mystery, and this is the 2nd book in the Italian Chef Mysteries series. The characters where developed, and I enjoyed the characters. I did not love the mystery part because I guess the ending way before it was revealed. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Poisoned Pen Press) or author (Catherine Bruns) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
July 19, 2020
I received an advanced copy of this book from Net Galley and the publisher in return for an honest review. The release date for this book is 28 July 2020
I just fell in love with this cozy little mystery. It has wonderful characters and the story is very engaging. This is definitely a book for foodies. The author even provide some very yummy recipes at the end of the book and great Italian cuisine is discussed throughout the story. The author definitely draws you in from the beginning. This is a very quick and easy read and I highly recommend it.
I just fell in love with this cozy little mystery. It has wonderful characters and the story is very engaging. This is definitely a book for foodies. The author even provide some very yummy recipes at the end of the book and great Italian cuisine is discussed throughout the story. The author definitely draws you in from the beginning. This is a very quick and easy read and I highly recommend it.
July 23, 2023
It Cannoli be Murder by Catherine Bruns
Italian Chef Mystery series #2. Cozy mystery. Can be read as a stand-alone. Recipe included at the end of the book.
Tessa Esposito is opening her own restaurant in just a couple of weeks. She books famous author Preston Rigotta to insure a successful opening. In the meantime, she agrees to cater a book store event for her cousin using her famous Italian desserts. When a publicist is found dead after the party, Tessa fears she may be a suspect which would be the end of all her plans for her future.
Amusing amateur mystery sleuths as Tessa and her cousin investigate the death and learn of an unusual ingredient in one of thee appetizers. I am not a cook or chef or baker by any measure, but it was interesting to follow along to see how the ingredient was incorporated and hidden. In fact, there were several other dishes described that had me thinking it was time for pasta!
The mystery itself isn’t that deep and you will probably figure out the killer midway through, but that doesn’t take away from the investigation antics that Tessa and Gabby juggle.
Recipe included afterward.
Italian Chef Mystery series #2. Cozy mystery. Can be read as a stand-alone. Recipe included at the end of the book.
Tessa Esposito is opening her own restaurant in just a couple of weeks. She books famous author Preston Rigotta to insure a successful opening. In the meantime, she agrees to cater a book store event for her cousin using her famous Italian desserts. When a publicist is found dead after the party, Tessa fears she may be a suspect which would be the end of all her plans for her future.
Amusing amateur mystery sleuths as Tessa and her cousin investigate the death and learn of an unusual ingredient in one of thee appetizers. I am not a cook or chef or baker by any measure, but it was interesting to follow along to see how the ingredient was incorporated and hidden. In fact, there were several other dishes described that had me thinking it was time for pasta!
The mystery itself isn’t that deep and you will probably figure out the killer midway through, but that doesn’t take away from the investigation antics that Tessa and Gabby juggle.
Recipe included afterward.
May 2, 2020
Just like spaghetti is always better the next day, this second installment in the Italian Chef Mysteries is even better than the first!
Author Catherine Bruns knows how to write a tale that keeps you turning the pages. Seriously, I couldn’t put down, IT CANNOLI BE MURDER. I did the whole, I’ll just read one more page because I have things I need to get done, thing more times than I can count. Let’s just say, those other things didn’t get done.
This is easily is one of my favorite books of the year. It’s a first rate murder mystery that had me stumped until the reveal. Honestly, each time I thought I was on the right track, author Bruns threw in another twist that showed me how off course I was. I was beginning to think there was no way the author herself could figure out who-dun-it. Of course, she did so brilliantly.
Along with the mystery, this story has wonderful characters that I was happy to spend time with again, and that I’m looking forward to revisiting in the next book. Last but not least, the food references had me salivating. I could smell the tomato sauce simmering. It made me so hungry, I made pasta for dinner when I was finished!
If you’re looking for a fast, fun, wonderfully written mystery, add IT CANNOLI BE MURDER to your must read list!
Author Catherine Bruns knows how to write a tale that keeps you turning the pages. Seriously, I couldn’t put down, IT CANNOLI BE MURDER. I did the whole, I’ll just read one more page because I have things I need to get done, thing more times than I can count. Let’s just say, those other things didn’t get done.
This is easily is one of my favorite books of the year. It’s a first rate murder mystery that had me stumped until the reveal. Honestly, each time I thought I was on the right track, author Bruns threw in another twist that showed me how off course I was. I was beginning to think there was no way the author herself could figure out who-dun-it. Of course, she did so brilliantly.
Along with the mystery, this story has wonderful characters that I was happy to spend time with again, and that I’m looking forward to revisiting in the next book. Last but not least, the food references had me salivating. I could smell the tomato sauce simmering. It made me so hungry, I made pasta for dinner when I was finished!
If you’re looking for a fast, fun, wonderfully written mystery, add IT CANNOLI BE MURDER to your must read list!
June 19, 2021
In the quaint, lovely town of Harvest Park, NY, Chef Tessa Esposito is readying to open her new Italian restaurant—Anything’s Pastable. Tessa’s drama queen cousin, Gabby, owns Once Upon A Book, just up the street. When an obnoxious best-selling author, Preston Rigotta’s book-signing is over, and his disagreeable publicist, Daphne, is found murdered in the mystery aisle, the question arises—Who made the cannoli that killed her?
Readers are in for a delectable treat in this fast-paced cozy mystery. There are several characters written to despise and suspect. Humor is added in all the right places! Surprisingly, I figured out the killer before the ending, however, that didn’t lessen my enjoyment of this well-crafted manuscript throughout the ending. Delicious recipes added by the author.
Readers are in for a delectable treat in this fast-paced cozy mystery. There are several characters written to despise and suspect. Humor is added in all the right places! Surprisingly, I figured out the killer before the ending, however, that didn’t lessen my enjoyment of this well-crafted manuscript throughout the ending. Delicious recipes added by the author.
November 23, 2021
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June 16, 2020
This was a delicious mystery. I loved Tessa and her restaurant "Anything's Pastable." The plot was satisfying . With surprising plot twists. I guessed who the murderer was but still an exciting mystery. I enjoyed the family element and Tessas cousin's Gabby bookshop and how she played a role in finding the killer.
I have this book an honest review for Netgalley
I have this book an honest review for Netgalley
July 26, 2020
3.5 stars
This is a cute cozy mystery story. It is apparently the second book in the series but can certainly be read as a stand alone. I did. Tessa is opening an Italian restaurant in her small community after the death of her husband. This is her life long dream come true.
Her cousin, Gabby, has just fulfilled her life long dream of opening a book store. A famous local author has agreed to do a book signing and Tessa is doing the refreshments as publicity. The author turns out to be quite unpleasant and shows up with his wife (the host of a cooking show), his daughter and his new publicity agent, Gabby's high school nemesis. There is a big blow up at the signing and the agent ends up dead. Gabby is the main suspect.
This was a fun read with lots of wonderful food descriptions. They mystery was rather straight forward and not much of a surprise but then cozies are supposed to be fun. This was fun. There are two love interests for Tessa, her landlord and a dreamy fireman so plenty of fun for future books.
I got the book because of the discussion of recipes being included. I did not find them very inclusive. When one calls for whipping out a pasta machine, my eyes glaze over. That's beyond my capabilities. I hope in future books the recipes are easier to make for the average person.
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
This is a cute cozy mystery story. It is apparently the second book in the series but can certainly be read as a stand alone. I did. Tessa is opening an Italian restaurant in her small community after the death of her husband. This is her life long dream come true.
Her cousin, Gabby, has just fulfilled her life long dream of opening a book store. A famous local author has agreed to do a book signing and Tessa is doing the refreshments as publicity. The author turns out to be quite unpleasant and shows up with his wife (the host of a cooking show), his daughter and his new publicity agent, Gabby's high school nemesis. There is a big blow up at the signing and the agent ends up dead. Gabby is the main suspect.
This was a fun read with lots of wonderful food descriptions. They mystery was rather straight forward and not much of a surprise but then cozies are supposed to be fun. This was fun. There are two love interests for Tessa, her landlord and a dreamy fireman so plenty of fun for future books.
I got the book because of the discussion of recipes being included. I did not find them very inclusive. When one calls for whipping out a pasta machine, my eyes glaze over. That's beyond my capabilities. I hope in future books the recipes are easier to make for the average person.
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
October 2, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
It has been a long time coming but Tessa Esposito’s new restaurant, Anything’s Pastable, is almost ready to open. She just needs to hire a few more staff, the correct menus to arrive, and a few little touchups in the dining room, and she will thrust open the doors for her grand opening. Hoping to drive up the reservations she agrees to whip up some cannoli and biscotti to serve at a book signing at her cousin Gabby’s bookstore Once Upon A Book. Sadly, there is a disturbance when the author’s publicist arrives and it is an old high school rival who does her best to push Gabby’s buttons. The event escalates to a full-blown fight which has the author chewing Gabby out and her worried about the future of Once Upon A Book.
The next morning Tessa discovers the publicist dead on the floor of the bookshop with a cannolo nearby setting up Tessa and Gabby as the prime suspects. Knowing that could put their lives and businesses at risk they are not waiting for the police to complete their investigation, Tessa jumps right in with her own investigation and discovers one secret that could have easily set the murder in motion. She just needs to prove it.
Tessa has been through a lot. After the death of her husband she finds out he was actually murdered and she goes undercover to try to catch his killer. Now in this story, she is about to open her dream Italian Restaurant when another murder puts not only her dream in jeopardy but her cousin’s bookstore as well. Because they are both involved in the case, Gabby’s brother, Detective Gino Mancusi cannot be the detective in charge of the investigation. These are three strong characters that are really developing nicely. They have each other’s back and while Gino would like Gabby and Tessa to leave the death to the police he understands their frustrations.
We meet author Preston Rigotta, his wife, his daughter, their maid, and his publicist. These characters are also nicely developed even with the publicist dying. We learn a lot about her and the Rigotta family as the mystery unfolds.
The mystery was very well-plotted with some corkscrew twists. The victim was a real piece of work and definitely has not changed from high school, which meant she had made a few enemies. I was a little nervous about the risks Tessa and Gabby took. So much so, I wanted to jump into the book and save them from themselves. I thought I had nailed down whodunit and then Ms. Bruns added another twist that changed everything, I love it when that happens.
It Cannoli Be Murder contains an excellent mystery and characters I have grown to care about. My cancer treatments kept this book on my T-B-R shelf too long. But that means I have less time to wait for book number 3, The Enemy You Gnocchi, is being released on October 26 and it is already on my reading calendar. I am excited because it is a Christmas holiday mystery and I am looking forward to visiting Harvest Park when the snow is flying.
It has been a long time coming but Tessa Esposito’s new restaurant, Anything’s Pastable, is almost ready to open. She just needs to hire a few more staff, the correct menus to arrive, and a few little touchups in the dining room, and she will thrust open the doors for her grand opening. Hoping to drive up the reservations she agrees to whip up some cannoli and biscotti to serve at a book signing at her cousin Gabby’s bookstore Once Upon A Book. Sadly, there is a disturbance when the author’s publicist arrives and it is an old high school rival who does her best to push Gabby’s buttons. The event escalates to a full-blown fight which has the author chewing Gabby out and her worried about the future of Once Upon A Book.
The next morning Tessa discovers the publicist dead on the floor of the bookshop with a cannolo nearby setting up Tessa and Gabby as the prime suspects. Knowing that could put their lives and businesses at risk they are not waiting for the police to complete their investigation, Tessa jumps right in with her own investigation and discovers one secret that could have easily set the murder in motion. She just needs to prove it.
Tessa has been through a lot. After the death of her husband she finds out he was actually murdered and she goes undercover to try to catch his killer. Now in this story, she is about to open her dream Italian Restaurant when another murder puts not only her dream in jeopardy but her cousin’s bookstore as well. Because they are both involved in the case, Gabby’s brother, Detective Gino Mancusi cannot be the detective in charge of the investigation. These are three strong characters that are really developing nicely. They have each other’s back and while Gino would like Gabby and Tessa to leave the death to the police he understands their frustrations.
We meet author Preston Rigotta, his wife, his daughter, their maid, and his publicist. These characters are also nicely developed even with the publicist dying. We learn a lot about her and the Rigotta family as the mystery unfolds.
The mystery was very well-plotted with some corkscrew twists. The victim was a real piece of work and definitely has not changed from high school, which meant she had made a few enemies. I was a little nervous about the risks Tessa and Gabby took. So much so, I wanted to jump into the book and save them from themselves. I thought I had nailed down whodunit and then Ms. Bruns added another twist that changed everything, I love it when that happens.
It Cannoli Be Murder contains an excellent mystery and characters I have grown to care about. My cancer treatments kept this book on my T-B-R shelf too long. But that means I have less time to wait for book number 3, The Enemy You Gnocchi, is being released on October 26 and it is already on my reading calendar. I am excited because it is a Christmas holiday mystery and I am looking forward to visiting Harvest Park when the snow is flying.
November 10, 2020
Tessa Esposito is about to realize her dream of opening her own Italian restaurant.
She is worried and on a tight schedule while bills pile up and no money is coming in. Meanwhile,
Her cousin and best friend, Gabby, is having an author signing event at her bookstore.
Preston Rigotta is a New York Times bestselling author and Gaby is counting on this event to get her back in the black for her book sales.
Tessa is making the desserts for the bookstore event and everything is ready to go.
But just at the beginning of the event, Preston's new publicist comes in and turns out she was Gaby's worst nightmare in high school.
Later on that night, Daphne, the publicist is found dead.
Tessa and Gabby decide to investigate since both their livelihoods are on the line.
Funny and lots of interesting characters. Great family members and kept my interest.
She is worried and on a tight schedule while bills pile up and no money is coming in. Meanwhile,
Her cousin and best friend, Gabby, is having an author signing event at her bookstore.
Preston Rigotta is a New York Times bestselling author and Gaby is counting on this event to get her back in the black for her book sales.
Tessa is making the desserts for the bookstore event and everything is ready to go.
But just at the beginning of the event, Preston's new publicist comes in and turns out she was Gaby's worst nightmare in high school.
Later on that night, Daphne, the publicist is found dead.
Tessa and Gabby decide to investigate since both their livelihoods are on the line.
Funny and lots of interesting characters. Great family members and kept my interest.
September 27, 2020
Loved this second book in the series. The restaurant is adorable, the characters are fun, the mystery kept me guessing, and those recipes! I especially liked how the cannoli was woven into the plot. Now if I just had a pasta machine … a girl can dream!
May 1, 2020
IT CANNOLI BE MURDER, the second book in the Italian Chef Mysteries by Catherine Bruns, is another delicious addition to a delectable series. Ms. Bruns crafts an intriguing tale featuring Tessa Esposito, a fledgling Italian restaurant owner. Tessa has had a heartbreaking year after losing her husband and she’s trying to recover while moving forward with their dream of opening a restaurant featuring her award winning Italian dishes. The author captures the angst of Tessa which brings an emotional element into the story. Ms. Bruns also has a strong descriptive voice that conveys the sights, sounds, aromas, and tastes of Tessa’s cooking along with the setting to make the reader feel like they’re right there, experiencing everything alongside her. With strong character development, Tessa and her cousin, Gabby, have great chemistry together. I greatly enjoyed watching the plot unfold as they work as a team to clear their names while their repartee brings some humor to the book.
Ms. Bruns writes a tightly plotted mystery involving Gabby’s old high school mean-girl nemesis, an egotistical best-selling author, his arrogant wife, and a detective that has his sights set on Tessa and Gabby. There were suspects aplenty and the author uses a creative method for the murder. As the story unfolded I found myself drawn in and suffered from the “just one more page” syndrome until the late hours of the night. But it was well worth it as the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat until the surprise reveal!
Tessa is a trained chef and makes all sorts of delicious foods and delectable desserts. As a reader, I was practically drooling over the yummy descriptions and I was happy that Ms. Bruns includes recipes at the back of the book.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ms. Bruns writes a tightly plotted mystery involving Gabby’s old high school mean-girl nemesis, an egotistical best-selling author, his arrogant wife, and a detective that has his sights set on Tessa and Gabby. There were suspects aplenty and the author uses a creative method for the murder. As the story unfolded I found myself drawn in and suffered from the “just one more page” syndrome until the late hours of the night. But it was well worth it as the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat until the surprise reveal!
Tessa is a trained chef and makes all sorts of delicious foods and delectable desserts. As a reader, I was practically drooling over the yummy descriptions and I was happy that Ms. Bruns includes recipes at the back of the book.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 1, 2020
This is the second book in the Italian Chef Mystery series and it was just as good as the first book. It is six months after the death of Tessa's husband and she is slowly putting her life back together. She is about to open her restaurant and finally realize her dream when someone from her past is murdered at Gabby's bookstore. Once again, Tessa and Gabby find themselves involved in trying to solve a murder, only this time it is because they are suspects. I love the relationship between Tessa, Gabby, and Gino. Even though Tessa is their cousin, the relationship plays out in a very sibling manner among all of them. Tessa and Gabby can sure get themselves into trouble. I find them to be a bit too reckless and cavalier about the trouble they get themselves into. Sometimes it makes me want to smack them both.
The mystery was well done. The victim was not well-liked and had a history of causing trouble with Gabby and Tessa back to high school. However, age didn't change her and she was not necessarily a nice person, which allows the author to set up a number of viable suspects with very believable motives. I thought it unfolded nicely throughout the story and I was definitely surprised by the identity of the killer and the motive. I thought the author delivered a nice twist there.
I really enjoy the characters and I am looking forward to watching Tessa grow as a character as she works through her grief. I think the author has plenty of places to take this series and I am looking forward to seeing what's to come.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Sourcebooks, through Edelweiss Books.
The mystery was well done. The victim was not well-liked and had a history of causing trouble with Gabby and Tessa back to high school. However, age didn't change her and she was not necessarily a nice person, which allows the author to set up a number of viable suspects with very believable motives. I thought it unfolded nicely throughout the story and I was definitely surprised by the identity of the killer and the motive. I thought the author delivered a nice twist there.
I really enjoy the characters and I am looking forward to watching Tessa grow as a character as she works through her grief. I think the author has plenty of places to take this series and I am looking forward to seeing what's to come.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Sourcebooks, through Edelweiss Books.
July 2, 2020
First, it was pizza. Now, it's cannoli. What's next? Why do I keep torturing myself with food related stories while on a diet? This book made me so hungry my mouth was watering and my stomach was rumbling all throughout!
After solving her husband's murder, Tessa is about to fulfill one of her dreams, to open a restaurant. When her cousin's high school nemesis is found dead in Gabby's bookstore after a book signing by a famous author both of them turn into suspects, Gabby because her long time enmity with the victim and Tessa cause police think she made the murder weapon, a cannoli (if that's the weapon, murder me a thousand times, please!). So if they don't want both their businesses to go under they must unveil the real killer.
"It cannoli be murder" is your typical food themed cozy mystery filled with a lovable amateur sleuth (although I might have yelled some other "really, girl?" to my kindle with some of her actions), some nice secondary characters and a handful of hateful suspects, all seasoned with some delicious italian recipes.
The mystery resolution came a bit out of nowhere but it was satisfying. Also, am I the only one thinking that there was a plot hole in the first chapters relating the missing bookstore keys?
Light and quick read with the perfect mix of intrigue and humour.
3,5 ⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
After solving her husband's murder, Tessa is about to fulfill one of her dreams, to open a restaurant. When her cousin's high school nemesis is found dead in Gabby's bookstore after a book signing by a famous author both of them turn into suspects, Gabby because her long time enmity with the victim and Tessa cause police think she made the murder weapon, a cannoli (if that's the weapon, murder me a thousand times, please!). So if they don't want both their businesses to go under they must unveil the real killer.
"It cannoli be murder" is your typical food themed cozy mystery filled with a lovable amateur sleuth (although I might have yelled some other "really, girl?" to my kindle with some of her actions), some nice secondary characters and a handful of hateful suspects, all seasoned with some delicious italian recipes.
The mystery resolution came a bit out of nowhere but it was satisfying. Also, am I the only one thinking that there was a plot hole in the first chapters relating the missing bookstore keys?
Light and quick read with the perfect mix of intrigue and humour.
3,5 ⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2020
I really enjoyed the first book by Catherine Bruns in the Italian Chef Mystey series, Penne Dreadful, and It Cannoli be Murder was another winner… which is not always the case with the second book in a cozy mystery series, so I was very happy!
As with the first book Bruns does a fantastic job with the scene descriptions, character development, and the mouth watering scenes with food. We got to know the characters very well in the first book, so in It Cannoli be Murder not only do we get some new insights into the main characters, but the new characters receive just as much detail. Tessa and her cousin, Gabby, have a fantastic relationship. Although they are cousins, it’s more like they are sisters and both of them are people I would love to have as friends. There’s a new detective in town that is a jerk so I’m interested to see if there will be a heartwarming story in future books that sheds a light on why he’s so mean, or to find out if that’s just the way he acts all the time.
Tessa’s landlord, Vince, is looking awful good to me and I hope something starts to happen with them in the romance department. I would jump on… ummm… I meant, at, a chance to be with him. Tall, dark, handsome, romantic, and owns a winery, Yes, Please. Then there’s her long time friend, Justin… while he’s attractive too and has been very sweet to Tessa, I’m still rooting for Vince.
There were lots of suspects as to who the killer could be and plenty of red herrings to keep one guessing. I thought I had figured out whodunnit, but I was wrong, which I always enjoy in a cozy mystery. Some of the suspects were vile people so it goes to show that Bruns can write a variety of characters very well.
Another great addition to the Italian Chef Mysteries and I am excited to see where book three leads. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, you should definitely give this series a try!
As with the first book Bruns does a fantastic job with the scene descriptions, character development, and the mouth watering scenes with food. We got to know the characters very well in the first book, so in It Cannoli be Murder not only do we get some new insights into the main characters, but the new characters receive just as much detail. Tessa and her cousin, Gabby, have a fantastic relationship. Although they are cousins, it’s more like they are sisters and both of them are people I would love to have as friends. There’s a new detective in town that is a jerk so I’m interested to see if there will be a heartwarming story in future books that sheds a light on why he’s so mean, or to find out if that’s just the way he acts all the time.
Tessa’s landlord, Vince, is looking awful good to me and I hope something starts to happen with them in the romance department. I would jump on… ummm… I meant, at, a chance to be with him. Tall, dark, handsome, romantic, and owns a winery, Yes, Please. Then there’s her long time friend, Justin… while he’s attractive too and has been very sweet to Tessa, I’m still rooting for Vince.
There were lots of suspects as to who the killer could be and plenty of red herrings to keep one guessing. I thought I had figured out whodunnit, but I was wrong, which I always enjoy in a cozy mystery. Some of the suspects were vile people so it goes to show that Bruns can write a variety of characters very well.
Another great addition to the Italian Chef Mysteries and I am excited to see where book three leads. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, you should definitely give this series a try!
April 29, 2020
It Cannoli Be Murder is the second book in Catherine Bruns’ Italian Chef Mysteries series. The storyline flows smoothly in this steadily paced cozy whodunit. The mystery is solid, and the affable characters are well developed. There are plenty of twists and turns, red herrings, and suspects to keep the reader engaged. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy reading well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Tessa Esposito’s husband recently passed away, and while she’s still grieving, the talented Italian chef is about to realize her dream of owning a restaurant. While she’s preparing for the grand opening of Anything’s Pastable, she agrees to prepare treats for a New York Times bestselling author, Preston Rigotta’s book signing at Once Upon a Book, the bookstore owned by her cousin and best friend, Gabby Mancusi. Gabby had been coordinating the signing with Preston’s daughter, Willow, and is taken aback when her high school nemeses, Daphne Daniels, shows up and announces that she’s Preston’s publicist. Gabby does her best to keep her temper in check and suffer the daunting abuse Daphne dishes out, but in the end, they get into a public argument. When Tessa goes to the bookstore to retrieve her phone the next morning, she discovers Daphne’s body, and once poisoning is determined as the cause of death, Gabby and Tessa become suspects in Detective Padraic “Paddy” McDermott’s mind. Sergeant Warner won’t allow Gabby’s brother, Detective Gino Mancusi, and her boyfriend and police officer, Lou Sawyer, to work on the case. Tessa and Gabby both fear this will affect the future of their businesses and are determined to track down the guilty party.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Tessa Esposito’s husband recently passed away, and while she’s still grieving, the talented Italian chef is about to realize her dream of owning a restaurant. While she’s preparing for the grand opening of Anything’s Pastable, she agrees to prepare treats for a New York Times bestselling author, Preston Rigotta’s book signing at Once Upon a Book, the bookstore owned by her cousin and best friend, Gabby Mancusi. Gabby had been coordinating the signing with Preston’s daughter, Willow, and is taken aback when her high school nemeses, Daphne Daniels, shows up and announces that she’s Preston’s publicist. Gabby does her best to keep her temper in check and suffer the daunting abuse Daphne dishes out, but in the end, they get into a public argument. When Tessa goes to the bookstore to retrieve her phone the next morning, she discovers Daphne’s body, and once poisoning is determined as the cause of death, Gabby and Tessa become suspects in Detective Padraic “Paddy” McDermott’s mind. Sergeant Warner won’t allow Gabby’s brother, Detective Gino Mancusi, and her boyfriend and police officer, Lou Sawyer, to work on the case. Tessa and Gabby both fear this will affect the future of their businesses and are determined to track down the guilty party.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
November 6, 2020
I'm in "book love" with Tessa Esposito and her family and friends! In the second book of the series, Tessa is ready to open her restaurant, "Anything's Pastable" - her and her late husband's dream come true. Her cousin Gabby has her own dreams realized when a best-selling author books a signing at her bookstore. When a "mean girl" from Gabby's past is murdered, Tessa must work to solve the mystery and save both their dreams before becoming the next victim!
The mystery kept me up, reading long into the night! There were twists and turns to the story that I enjoyed. I loved the descriptions of Tessa's restaurant and the food. Tessa does not "run into danger" and I enjoyed the friendship between her and Gabby. The book can be read as a standalone and was easy to catch up on past events.
I'll definitely be reading book #3!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The mystery kept me up, reading long into the night! There were twists and turns to the story that I enjoyed. I loved the descriptions of Tessa's restaurant and the food. Tessa does not "run into danger" and I enjoyed the friendship between her and Gabby. The book can be read as a standalone and was easy to catch up on past events.
I'll definitely be reading book #3!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
June 13, 2020
This is a fabulous second book in the series. It is almost opening day for Tess’ Italian restaurant and things are looking up for her cousin Gabby’s bookstore when someone is murdered. Tess, Gabby and several other people are considered suspects. I certainly got hungry while reading about the food Tess was cooking up. The author described it so well. The characters are perfect, if not all lovable. The descriptions are perfect. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley.
January 26, 2022
Another well-planned cozy in the Italian Chef Mystery series! I loved tagging along with Tessa and her cousin as they get into trouble trying to solve a murder! So many twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. The author had me stumped this time! Great recipes included. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 24, 2020
I really like this series. The story is well written with likable characters. The only thing that turned me off was the 3 sided love triangle that is implied. Totally not needed.
August 14, 2020
It's bee six months since her husband died and Tessa Esposito has her hands full. She is still grieving the loss of her husband and trying to get her new restaurant up and running. When her cousin asks her to prepare desserts for the upcoming book signing in her store Tessa feels it will be good advertising. Unfortunately the publicist for the author is an old school nemesis of both her and her cousin. Tempers flare and words are exchanged. When the publicist is later found dead in the bookstore all suspicion falls on Gabby, Tessa's cousin. Who would want the publicist dead? A jealous wife? A fed up author? As Tessa investigates, much to the chagrin of the police, she uncovers secrets and in doing so puts her own life in jeopardy. The characters are great! The mystery is very well written. I definitely enjoyed reading this book and happily recommend it to everyone! There are some delicious recipes included as an added bonus!
January 11, 2026
Murder, mayhem, and cannoli! This cozy mystery was a treat, especially thanks to Tessa, who is a fantastic main character. Charming, engaging, and perfect for fans of food-filled whodunits.
I am so glad I got back to this series. It was just what I needed to read to start the year.
I am so glad I got back to this series. It was just what I needed to read to start the year.
June 19, 2020
Loved the second book in the series! Fun mystery, hard to put down. Read it in one day. Love Tessa and her crazy Italian family!
July 20, 2020
It Cannoli Be Murder
Italian Chef Mysteries, Book #2
Catherine Bruns
5 Stars
Synopsis:
It's time to serve some just desserts...
Six months after her husband's death, Tessa Esposito is hoping to drum up reservations for her restaurant's grand opening. And since a signing with bestselling author, Preston Rigotta, is sure to draw a crowd, Tessa agrees to cater her cousin's bookstore event--whipping up some of her famous Italian desserts. But the event soon takes a sour turn when Preston's publicist, an old high school rival, arrives and begins to whisk up their old grudges.
That night, a fight breaks out in front of the crowd, and it becomes clear there's bad blood in Harvest Park. And when the publicist is found dead on the bookstore floor the next morning, a stray cannolo at her side, Tessa knows who will be framed as the prime suspect.
To clear both her cousin's and her own name, Tessa must investigate the murder. But Preston's publicist has many secrets to hide, and in the end, the truth is bittersweet...
The second book in the Italian Chef Cozy Mystery series!
Review:
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author’s descriptions let me picture the restaurant, the food and the smells very vividly and left me hungry. The mystery was well plotted and very intriguing and I found myself caught up in it. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through. Throw in some red herrings and it was not easily solved.
The characters are well developed, well rounded and three dimensional. Tessa and Gabby are cousins, but they could not be any closer. You can tell how much they care about each other and they will do anything to help each other. This causes some funny adventures that they have and also some dangerous ones. When they are considered suspects in a publicist murder, they will pull out all the stops to find out who did it.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With fantastic characters, a inviting setting, a top notch mystery and food galore, who could ask for more?
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Italian Chef Mysteries, Book #2
Catherine Bruns
5 Stars
Synopsis:
It's time to serve some just desserts...
Six months after her husband's death, Tessa Esposito is hoping to drum up reservations for her restaurant's grand opening. And since a signing with bestselling author, Preston Rigotta, is sure to draw a crowd, Tessa agrees to cater her cousin's bookstore event--whipping up some of her famous Italian desserts. But the event soon takes a sour turn when Preston's publicist, an old high school rival, arrives and begins to whisk up their old grudges.
That night, a fight breaks out in front of the crowd, and it becomes clear there's bad blood in Harvest Park. And when the publicist is found dead on the bookstore floor the next morning, a stray cannolo at her side, Tessa knows who will be framed as the prime suspect.
To clear both her cousin's and her own name, Tessa must investigate the murder. But Preston's publicist has many secrets to hide, and in the end, the truth is bittersweet...
The second book in the Italian Chef Cozy Mystery series!
Review:
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author’s descriptions let me picture the restaurant, the food and the smells very vividly and left me hungry. The mystery was well plotted and very intriguing and I found myself caught up in it. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through. Throw in some red herrings and it was not easily solved.
The characters are well developed, well rounded and three dimensional. Tessa and Gabby are cousins, but they could not be any closer. You can tell how much they care about each other and they will do anything to help each other. This causes some funny adventures that they have and also some dangerous ones. When they are considered suspects in a publicist murder, they will pull out all the stops to find out who did it.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With fantastic characters, a inviting setting, a top notch mystery and food galore, who could ask for more?
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
May 3, 2021
Tessa’s life has been an emotional roller coaster. Six months ago, her husband was murdered. Now, in just a few days, her new restaurant was going to have its grand opening. Her cousin Gabby was also experiencing some deep emotions, but of a more desperate nature. Her bookshop was slowly but surely dying. Sales were down, and she needed a boost if she was going to remain open. Having a signing event with a famous author was just the shot in the arm she needed. But when the author’s publicist is found dead after-hours in the bookshop, everything went south. And it sure didn’t help that Gabby and the deceased were old enemies from their high school days. Now high on the list of suspects as persons of interest, Tessa and Gabby are frantic to save both their businesses and their freedom. Their methods are certainly not legal, something they try to hide from Gabby’s brother the cop, and their rash behavior is likely to result in injuries rather than solutions. It’s a wild ride to the finish! The plot is great and the characters are endearing. Recipes are included.
August 15, 2020
This was such a wonderfully compelling mystery from start to finish!
In this second instalment of the Italian Chef Mysteries, It Cannoli Be Murder, the reader meets protagonist Tessa Esposito, a trained chef and the proud owner of 'Anything's Pastable'. While she’s preparing for her restaurant's grand opening she agrees to make sweet treats for bestselling author, Preston Rigotta’s book signing at 'Once Upon a Book', the bookshop owned by her cousin and best friend, Gabby Mancusi to help her draw in the crowd. When Preston's publicist and Gabby's high school nemesis, Daphne Daniels rocks up, sparks fly. Visiting the bookshop the next day to collect her phone, Tessa happens across Daphne's dead body...
The author, Catherine Bruns, has executed this story with such a fresh take that it was nothing short of hugely enjoyable. An engaging and affable cast of characters and a well-thought-out, solid mystery resulted in a novel chock full of twists, red herrings, and suspects that kept me totally engaged in the shenanigans. I was desperate to continue reading until the fulfilling conclusion.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy reading well-crafted cozies and I am already looking forward to the next instalment in this marvellous series. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request, from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
In this second instalment of the Italian Chef Mysteries, It Cannoli Be Murder, the reader meets protagonist Tessa Esposito, a trained chef and the proud owner of 'Anything's Pastable'. While she’s preparing for her restaurant's grand opening she agrees to make sweet treats for bestselling author, Preston Rigotta’s book signing at 'Once Upon a Book', the bookshop owned by her cousin and best friend, Gabby Mancusi to help her draw in the crowd. When Preston's publicist and Gabby's high school nemesis, Daphne Daniels rocks up, sparks fly. Visiting the bookshop the next day to collect her phone, Tessa happens across Daphne's dead body...
The author, Catherine Bruns, has executed this story with such a fresh take that it was nothing short of hugely enjoyable. An engaging and affable cast of characters and a well-thought-out, solid mystery resulted in a novel chock full of twists, red herrings, and suspects that kept me totally engaged in the shenanigans. I was desperate to continue reading until the fulfilling conclusion.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy reading well-crafted cozies and I am already looking forward to the next instalment in this marvellous series. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request, from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
September 22, 2020
In this second book of the series Tessa's dream of opening her own restaurant is coming true. She's getting ready for her grand opening and stressing about having enough reservations on said day. Even though she's busy she agrees to cater her cousin's bookstore event where famous author Preston Ricotta will be doing a signing. Things are going well until his publicist makes an appearance, it's none other than a rival from high school who made her cousin's life miserable. What was suppose to be a huge night for her cousins bookstore turns into a horrible evening with an author who leaves angry. When Tessa finds the body of the publicist the next day while retrieving her phone from the bookstore it doesn't look good. There is cannoli by the dead woman and the cops suspect it is what killed her. Tessa knows someone is trying to make her look guilty and decides to do her own investigation. She knows she must do everything thing she can To clear her name especially before the upcoming opening of her restaurant. Follow along as she looks for clues, finds out secrets, and figures out just who had it in for the woman!
May 5, 2020
Intense moments, emotional moments, warm moments all intertwined with an excellent plot make It Cannoli Be Murder an outstanding second entry in Catherine Bruns newest series. Ms. Bruns create wonderful characters and presents believable interactions that draw me into the lives of Tess, Gabby and a few of their friends. The mystery is well plotted with both red-herrings and solid clues scattered throughout the novel.
Tess is almost ready to open her Italian restaurant, Nothing’s Impastable, when her cousin Gabby comes under suspicion of murder and Tess is eyed as an accessory, so off they go into another murder investigation, one Gabby’s brother Gino is especially angry about. Not only does it endanger his job, he fears for their lives after the last almost disaster. The closest to a negative I found was that most of the edge-of-your-seat scenes came from typical cringe-worthy investigative choices that we find in so many cozy mysteries, but Catherine Bruns mostly manages to make them works. Quite a few well-laid red-herrings send the women and the reader in several directions but stick-to-it-ivness and intelligent reasoning lead them to the truth.
My thanks to Poisened Pen Press and Edelweiss for allowing me to read and review the ARC of It Cannoli Be Murder. So fun!
#Edelweiss #ItCannoliBeMurder
July 28, 2020
It Cannoli Be Murder earns 5/5 Pinches of Spice...Entertaining Delight!
Catherine Bruns has stirred up a delightful second helping of her Italian Chef Mysteries. Set in upstate New York, Tess Esposito is a recent widow, chef by training and talent, a master of “the sauce,” and a pretty good amateur detective. Added to that resumé is new owner of her own restaurant...Anything’s Pastable. Hoping to get off to a good start with a bit of pre-opening advertisement, Tess agreed to cater a book-signing event at her cousin Gabby’s bookstore. Having best-selling author Preston Rigotta is a coup meant to greatly improve the bookstore’s bottom line, and his favorite dessert was something Tess could make in her sleep...cannoli! But, the cannoli ends up as a key factor in murder!
Catherine’s writing style has made me a loyal fan. She uses a first-person narrative from Tess’s perspective given me a delightful vicarious role with the “I” format. I thoroughly enjoyed her inner thoughts, theories, fears, and close connection to friends and family. With sensory-filled descriptive language it’s easy to picture the small town, shops, character appearances, and often sets up the time of the drama. Her dialogue illustrates well the emotions and varied personalities. The mystery follows the traditional cozy format I like: good set up, revisiting previous character background and connections, clever murder details, person of interest concerns, plenty of suspects with viable motives, a bit of personal peril, great conclusion, and...recipes!
There are other elements that have made this a favorite series. Bruns does well to create characters with the strength to overcome tragedies. In Tess’s case, it’s the murder of her husband and the aftermath of trying to move on. The dream of owning a restaurant was one her husband fostered and supported, but it’s able to see it come to fruition. Friendships and family are also a key element. Tess and her cousin Gabby have an enjoyable sister-like dynamic which motivates Tess’s involvement in the investigation, and cooperating, as best she can, with law enforcement is easy since her cousin Gino is the detective. Karma, too, always seems to have a role...
Buon appetito! Enjoy your meal! Easy-to-follow recipes included: Cannoli To Die For, Tess’s Ragu Bolognese Sauce, Cinnamon Chip Biscotti, and Pesto Sauce.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Poisoned Pen from NetGalley/Edelweiss. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Catherine Bruns has stirred up a delightful second helping of her Italian Chef Mysteries. Set in upstate New York, Tess Esposito is a recent widow, chef by training and talent, a master of “the sauce,” and a pretty good amateur detective. Added to that resumé is new owner of her own restaurant...Anything’s Pastable. Hoping to get off to a good start with a bit of pre-opening advertisement, Tess agreed to cater a book-signing event at her cousin Gabby’s bookstore. Having best-selling author Preston Rigotta is a coup meant to greatly improve the bookstore’s bottom line, and his favorite dessert was something Tess could make in her sleep...cannoli! But, the cannoli ends up as a key factor in murder!
Catherine’s writing style has made me a loyal fan. She uses a first-person narrative from Tess’s perspective given me a delightful vicarious role with the “I” format. I thoroughly enjoyed her inner thoughts, theories, fears, and close connection to friends and family. With sensory-filled descriptive language it’s easy to picture the small town, shops, character appearances, and often sets up the time of the drama. Her dialogue illustrates well the emotions and varied personalities. The mystery follows the traditional cozy format I like: good set up, revisiting previous character background and connections, clever murder details, person of interest concerns, plenty of suspects with viable motives, a bit of personal peril, great conclusion, and...recipes!
There are other elements that have made this a favorite series. Bruns does well to create characters with the strength to overcome tragedies. In Tess’s case, it’s the murder of her husband and the aftermath of trying to move on. The dream of owning a restaurant was one her husband fostered and supported, but it’s able to see it come to fruition. Friendships and family are also a key element. Tess and her cousin Gabby have an enjoyable sister-like dynamic which motivates Tess’s involvement in the investigation, and cooperating, as best she can, with law enforcement is easy since her cousin Gino is the detective. Karma, too, always seems to have a role...
Buon appetito! Enjoy your meal! Easy-to-follow recipes included: Cannoli To Die For, Tess’s Ragu Bolognese Sauce, Cinnamon Chip Biscotti, and Pesto Sauce.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Poisoned Pen from NetGalley/Edelweiss. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
August 19, 2020
There is really no way to describe how much I enjoyed It Cannoli Be Murder, the second installment in Catherine Bruns’s Italian Chef Mysteries. As much as I loved the first book in the series, Penne Dreadful, It Cannoli Be Murder was even better. From the opening pages to the picture-perfect ending, this is a book to be savored.
Chef Tessa Esposito is busy preparing for the grand opening of her restaurant, Anything’s Pastable. She nonetheless agrees to cater dessert at her cousin Gabby’s struggling book store Once Upon a Book, where bestselling author Preston Rigotta will be signing his latest suspense novel. Rigotta, it turns out, is a demanding prima donna whose imperious attitude creates immediate tension at the event. Making things worse, his recently-hired publicist, Daphne Daniels, is Gabby’s high school rival, who, it seems, is intent upon gaining favor with Rigotta by demeaning both Gabby and Tessa. Gabby retaliates by “accidentally” spilling her wine on Daphne, thereby further offending Rigotta. Despite the problems, all of Rigotta’s books are sold and the signing appears to be a success. However, the next morning, Tessa discovers that Daphne has been murdered in Once Upon a Book, and suspicion immediately falls on Gabby. Eager to help her cousin – and clear her own name in the process – Tessa begins to investigate.
This book is charming from minute one. Tessa is both complex and relatable; strong, yet vulnerable; compassionate and resourceful. Gabby is a loyal friend, and Gino, Vinny and Justin are all extremely likeable and nuanced. With this second book, we delve more into each of their backstories, making them even more endearing. Even Tessa’s cat, Luigi, was charismatic in his own right. And while I identified the perpetrator early on, this did not detract from the delightful twists and turns in the mystery. And the recipes included at the end of the novel sound delicious. I can’t wait to try them.
But for me, the most compelling part of this novel is its emotional punch. Tessa’s grief at having lost her husband (prior to the first book) draws you in and touches your soul in a way that is rare for books of this genre. Catherine Bruns once again has created a cozy mystery novel that is so much more. It Cannoli Be Murder is a book I will treasure for years to come. Needless to say, I can’t wait until the next installment in this wonderful series.
Note: I received an ARC of It Cannoli Be Murder from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press. The above is my honest review.
Chef Tessa Esposito is busy preparing for the grand opening of her restaurant, Anything’s Pastable. She nonetheless agrees to cater dessert at her cousin Gabby’s struggling book store Once Upon a Book, where bestselling author Preston Rigotta will be signing his latest suspense novel. Rigotta, it turns out, is a demanding prima donna whose imperious attitude creates immediate tension at the event. Making things worse, his recently-hired publicist, Daphne Daniels, is Gabby’s high school rival, who, it seems, is intent upon gaining favor with Rigotta by demeaning both Gabby and Tessa. Gabby retaliates by “accidentally” spilling her wine on Daphne, thereby further offending Rigotta. Despite the problems, all of Rigotta’s books are sold and the signing appears to be a success. However, the next morning, Tessa discovers that Daphne has been murdered in Once Upon a Book, and suspicion immediately falls on Gabby. Eager to help her cousin – and clear her own name in the process – Tessa begins to investigate.
This book is charming from minute one. Tessa is both complex and relatable; strong, yet vulnerable; compassionate and resourceful. Gabby is a loyal friend, and Gino, Vinny and Justin are all extremely likeable and nuanced. With this second book, we delve more into each of their backstories, making them even more endearing. Even Tessa’s cat, Luigi, was charismatic in his own right. And while I identified the perpetrator early on, this did not detract from the delightful twists and turns in the mystery. And the recipes included at the end of the novel sound delicious. I can’t wait to try them.
But for me, the most compelling part of this novel is its emotional punch. Tessa’s grief at having lost her husband (prior to the first book) draws you in and touches your soul in a way that is rare for books of this genre. Catherine Bruns once again has created a cozy mystery novel that is so much more. It Cannoli Be Murder is a book I will treasure for years to come. Needless to say, I can’t wait until the next installment in this wonderful series.
Note: I received an ARC of It Cannoli Be Murder from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press. The above is my honest review.
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