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Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mysteries #3
Murder in Florence
A brand-new cozy crime series set in gorgeous Tuscany...It's murder in paradise!
A glamourous film star…
Life as a private investigator in the suburbs of Florence isn’t always as glamourous as Dan Armstrong imagined it to be, until he is asked to investigate a recent spate of violent attacks on a Hollywood movie set in Florence. The star of the show, movie-star royalty Selena Gardner, fears her life is in imminent danger…
Foul play on set…
As Dan investigates, he discovers secrets and scandals are rife within the cast and crew. But with no actual murder, Dan believes these attacks could simply be warnings to someone…until the first body is found.
A dangerous killer on the loose.
Now Dan and his trusty sidekick Oscar are in a race against time to catch the murderer. But the more Dan uncovers, the more the killer strikes and Dan finds himself caught in the line of fire too! Is this one case Dan and Oscar will regret?
A gripping new murder mystery series by bestselling author T.A. Williams, perfect for fans of Lee Strauss and Beth Byers.
A glamourous film star…
Life as a private investigator in the suburbs of Florence isn’t always as glamourous as Dan Armstrong imagined it to be, until he is asked to investigate a recent spate of violent attacks on a Hollywood movie set in Florence. The star of the show, movie-star royalty Selena Gardner, fears her life is in imminent danger…
Foul play on set…
As Dan investigates, he discovers secrets and scandals are rife within the cast and crew. But with no actual murder, Dan believes these attacks could simply be warnings to someone…until the first body is found.
A dangerous killer on the loose.
Now Dan and his trusty sidekick Oscar are in a race against time to catch the murderer. But the more Dan uncovers, the more the killer strikes and Dan finds himself caught in the line of fire too! Is this one case Dan and Oscar will regret?
A gripping new murder mystery series by bestselling author T.A. Williams, perfect for fans of Lee Strauss and Beth Byers.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2023
883 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Williams
46 books591 followersFirstly, my name isn't T A. It's Trevor. I write under the androgynous name T A Williams because 65% of books are read by women. In my first book, one of the (female) characters suggests the imbalance is due to the fact that men spend too much time getting drunk and watching football. I couldn't possibly comment. Ask my wife...
I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely Cozy Mysteries. I lived and worked in Italy for a number of years, married an Italian, and fell in love with the country. I set almost all my books in Italy and I hope that my love from the country shines through my work.
I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. I'm now approaching 1 million books sold worldwide and I find it wonderful that people as far away as India and New Zealand are reading and enjoying my work. Thank you to everybody who reads my stuff.
I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely Cozy Mysteries. I lived and worked in Italy for a number of years, married an Italian, and fell in love with the country. I set almost all my books in Italy and I hope that my love from the country shines through my work.
I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. I'm now approaching 1 million books sold worldwide and I find it wonderful that people as far away as India and New Zealand are reading and enjoying my work. Thank you to everybody who reads my stuff.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
January 11, 2025
The Armstrong and Oscar cozy mystery series is perfect when you want some light entertainment. It helps that it takes place in Tuscany, with lots of beautiful scenery. Williams does a good job of giving you a real feel for the setting.
This time, Dan has been hired to get to the bottom of threatening messages shot by arrow onto a Hollywood film shooting in Florence. He hasn’t made any progress, other than determining there was a lot of infighting going on, when the publicist is found dead, shot with an arrow in the back. The list of suspects includes pretty much the entire cast and crew, not to mention the possibility of someone outside the film set.
Dan is a likeable main character. As a former British DI, he works well with the local police and doesn’t do anything too foolish. And Oscar, his black lab, is a particular delight. The plot is fairly standard but enjoyable. There are plenty of red herrings. Williams does rely a little too heavily on coincidences to move the plot forward. I found the why behind the crime smart and satisfying. And could this be the start to a relationship for Dan?
This can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I listened to this and Simon Mattacks does a good job as the narrator, managing all the different voices and accents.
This time, Dan has been hired to get to the bottom of threatening messages shot by arrow onto a Hollywood film shooting in Florence. He hasn’t made any progress, other than determining there was a lot of infighting going on, when the publicist is found dead, shot with an arrow in the back. The list of suspects includes pretty much the entire cast and crew, not to mention the possibility of someone outside the film set.
Dan is a likeable main character. As a former British DI, he works well with the local police and doesn’t do anything too foolish. And Oscar, his black lab, is a particular delight. The plot is fairly standard but enjoyable. There are plenty of red herrings. Williams does rely a little too heavily on coincidences to move the plot forward. I found the why behind the crime smart and satisfying. And could this be the start to a relationship for Dan?
This can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I listened to this and Simon Mattacks does a good job as the narrator, managing all the different voices and accents.
May 1, 2024
Šis bija lieliski. Piecas zvaigznes varbūt gluži nē, bet patiešām jauks, nesarežģīts detektīvs rudenīgajā Florencē, kur šoreiz tiek apdraudēta kādas Holivudas filmas uzņemšana. Autors ne tikai pietiekami labi pārdomā detektīvintrigu, bet arī veido foršus tēlus, kuriem tiešām var ar interesi sekot līdz.
September 22, 2024
Mīlīga atkaltikšanās ar Denu un Oskaru. Šoreiz grāmatas pirmo trešdaļu šķita, ka nekas īsti nenotiek un beigās dramatiskam efektam autors drusku pārspīlēja, bet man šī sērija patīk, nepiekasīšos.
April 13, 2023
T.A. Williams is back with Murder In Florence, third installment of his cozy mystery series about Dan, a retired police detective, and Oscar, his phenomenal sidekick (a chocolate Labrador) solving crimes in Tuscany.
The author has really found Dan’s voice (his wry and self deprecating humor is so refreshing) and the overall tone of the serie, with some humorous touches here and there, making of each new installment a really enjoyable reading experience.
Dan is completely established in Italy, working now as a private investigator in Florence. A Hollywood film about the Medicis is being shot in the city, but a series of anonymous attacks with arrows with a creepy message have frightened the cast and crew, so Dan’s called to investigate upon these threats. It looks like the Medici feud against the Pazzi family is being reenacted several centuries later but, will Dan be able to uncover the killer before the next arrow is shot?
Florence is such a fantastic location for a story, and this time it is turned into a giant movie set, which offers loads of possibilities. The author manages to transport the reader to those streets, palazzos and gardens as if you were watching a movie yourself. He also takes you to the Tuscan countryside, discovering the reader a handful of little villages that sounds absolutely stunning and that I’d like to visit someday.
There’s a big cast of characters that work perfectly as an ensemble, portraying several different stereotypes you can find in the movie industry. It also works really well when trying to misdirect the reader’s suspicions about the killer’s identity. You will never be sure if they’re friend or foe, as with each new attack, suspicions come and go, making this a really entertaining conundrum to solve.
Murder in Florence can easily be read as a stand alone as there’s not a running backstory through the series, and enough details about Dan and how he came to live in Italy are provided. Also, love is in the air, so it looks like an interesting chapter is opening up for Dan.
Murder In Florence was a fun read, with all the glamour of a movie set and all the charm of the wonderful city of Florence. T.A. Williams romances are good, but his murder mysteries are even better!
Thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and my spot on the Blog Tour.
The author has really found Dan’s voice (his wry and self deprecating humor is so refreshing) and the overall tone of the serie, with some humorous touches here and there, making of each new installment a really enjoyable reading experience.
Dan is completely established in Italy, working now as a private investigator in Florence. A Hollywood film about the Medicis is being shot in the city, but a series of anonymous attacks with arrows with a creepy message have frightened the cast and crew, so Dan’s called to investigate upon these threats. It looks like the Medici feud against the Pazzi family is being reenacted several centuries later but, will Dan be able to uncover the killer before the next arrow is shot?
Florence is such a fantastic location for a story, and this time it is turned into a giant movie set, which offers loads of possibilities. The author manages to transport the reader to those streets, palazzos and gardens as if you were watching a movie yourself. He also takes you to the Tuscan countryside, discovering the reader a handful of little villages that sounds absolutely stunning and that I’d like to visit someday.
There’s a big cast of characters that work perfectly as an ensemble, portraying several different stereotypes you can find in the movie industry. It also works really well when trying to misdirect the reader’s suspicions about the killer’s identity. You will never be sure if they’re friend or foe, as with each new attack, suspicions come and go, making this a really entertaining conundrum to solve.
Murder in Florence can easily be read as a stand alone as there’s not a running backstory through the series, and enough details about Dan and how he came to live in Italy are provided. Also, love is in the air, so it looks like an interesting chapter is opening up for Dan.
Murder In Florence was a fun read, with all the glamour of a movie set and all the charm of the wonderful city of Florence. T.A. Williams romances are good, but his murder mysteries are even better!
Thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and my spot on the Blog Tour.
September 9, 2025
I didn't enjoy this as much as the previous ones.
I'll be reviewing it soon enough to tell you why.
I'll be reviewing it soon enough to tell you why.
March 8, 2023
This is a series that is going from strength to strength with each book, as T. A. Williams really gets to grips with this new genre of his.
For this is simply sublime, I had absolutely no idea who to suspect, and it turns out just about everything is relevant even when you think it may not be. It's incredibly well plotted, and I couldn't get enough of this mystery.
I loved the film set as a location in Florence, and although there was perhaps a bit more history in this for my tastes, it all fitted in well, as the film being shot has historical elements around the Medici family. And as the film is being shot in various locales around the Florence area, Dan with Oscar are on hand to see if he can work out just who has been shooting arrows and threats at the film set.
There is aa great cast of characters, and this easily works as a standalone, with only a handful of characters that have been in the series before, those being the police that Dan, who is now a private investigator has been working with before.
I loved getting to know the various people making the film, and trying to figure out if they are suspects.
It's such a fabulous cosy mystery from an author that can do no wrong in my eyes. Utterly fantastic.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
For this is simply sublime, I had absolutely no idea who to suspect, and it turns out just about everything is relevant even when you think it may not be. It's incredibly well plotted, and I couldn't get enough of this mystery.
I loved the film set as a location in Florence, and although there was perhaps a bit more history in this for my tastes, it all fitted in well, as the film being shot has historical elements around the Medici family. And as the film is being shot in various locales around the Florence area, Dan with Oscar are on hand to see if he can work out just who has been shooting arrows and threats at the film set.
There is aa great cast of characters, and this easily works as a standalone, with only a handful of characters that have been in the series before, those being the police that Dan, who is now a private investigator has been working with before.
I loved getting to know the various people making the film, and trying to figure out if they are suspects.
It's such a fabulous cosy mystery from an author that can do no wrong in my eyes. Utterly fantastic.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 13, 2023
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Murder In Florence' by T. A. Williams .
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for T. A. Williams, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Tours.
Publication date 7th April 2023.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the third book in the 'Armstrong And Oscar Cosy Mystery' series but can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A gripping new murder mystery series by bestselling author T.A. Williams, perfect for fans of Lee Strauss and Beth Byers' . I am a huge fan of Lee Strauss so am looking forward to seeing if it lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Boldwood Books. I have yet to read a book published by Boldwood that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 26 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Tuscany, Italy 🇮🇹.
This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonist is Dan Armstrong. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on.
The storyline had me hooked immediately and I love the way that Dan goes about his detective work. There was so much going on that it kept me entertained thoroughly throughout with mystery after mystery and clue after clue. It was filled with mystery, laughter, murder, clues, romance, doggy treats, tension, suspense and so much more!! It is absolutely perfect to read either curled in front of the fire or lying on a beach which not many books can achieve. I never did work out who the killer was and was completely shocked when they were discovered. A great achievement as I am a huge crime fan and tend to work out who did what quite early on. The atmosphere was perfectly suited to the Mystery and I loved exploring Tuscany. I also loved all the historical information which was definitely an added bonus as I do enjoy discovering more history which I will be digging into more after I finish the book. I would definitely say that the author has done their research which is always a bonus as there's nothing worse than a book littered with errors which could have been avoided by doing research on the topics. TA Williams writing skills made me feel like I had been swept away to Tuscany and was walking along trying to solve the crime and mystery along with Dan and Oscar.
I enjoyed getting into this series and managed to read this book in one sitting. I wont say anymore about that as I don't want to spoil anything for future readers by giving too much away. I enjoy how we begin with the mystery of the threats being shot into the set and later find more and more about each of the characters and what they are hiding. I also enjoyed how all the storylines weaved together nicely towards the end and there wasn't any loose threads as another pet hate is ending a book with unsolved mysteries.
I would liken the speed of this book to a roller-coaster where it starts off slowly as it builds up and then once it hits a certain point you are at the top of the coaster and start travelling at speed with twists, turns, some slow parts and others faster until you hit the ending which is not quite what you would expect! A great start and introduction (for me) into this fantastic looking series.
Although this is the third book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too.
There was a fantastic selection of characters that I met in this book along with our main protagonist Dan. I was fascinated watching the character development from the start to the end of this book and I'm looking forward to how Dan started right at the beginning and to continuing to read this series to watch his character continue to grow. I have to admit though that my favourite character just had to be Oscar!! As a huge animal lover myself any books that include animals gets bonus points for me and this one got mega points as Oscar played a main part!! He is such a sweet but mischievous boy and absolutely adorable!! I also enjoyed meeting all the cast and different characters that we meet on set. They were all well rounded, strong, realistic with their own quirks and personalities. One of my other favourite characters just had to be Rachel AKA Dizzy. The fact that she could fall over dust reminded me of myself so much!! I actually think I've just met someone who may actually be more clumsy than I am!! There was the perfect amount of characters to keep you guessing who the killer is and I enjoyed trying to work out who was hiding what even though I kept getting it wrong!! I'm looking forward to meeting Dan and Oscar again in previous and future books in this series!
Overall a fun and easy to read page turning cosy murder mystery with the perfect amount of crime, history and humour that will keep you turning the pages.
Genres covered in this novel include Historical Fiction, Historical Mysteries, International Mystery & Crime, Private Investigator Mystery, Traditional Detective Mysteries, Cozy Mystery, Murder, British Detective Stories, Literary Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Amateur Sleuths, International Mysteries & Crime, Mysteries, Historical Thriller, Mystery & Suspense Fiction, Suspense, and Crime amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of T E Kinsey, Beth Byers, Agatha Christie, Lee Strauss and anyone looking for a very easy, page turning and enjoyable read.
267 pages.
This book is just £2.84 to purchase on kindle, free on kindle unlimited and £9.99 on paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#MurderInFlorence #ArmstrongAndOscarCozyMystery #TAWilliams #BoldwoodBooks #BoldwoodBloggers #BookAndTonic #RachelsRandomResources #rararesources #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #NetGalley #KindleUnlimited
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Review for 'Murder In Florence' by T. A. Williams .
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for T. A. Williams, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Tours.
Publication date 7th April 2023.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the third book in the 'Armstrong And Oscar Cosy Mystery' series but can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A gripping new murder mystery series by bestselling author T.A. Williams, perfect for fans of Lee Strauss and Beth Byers' . I am a huge fan of Lee Strauss so am looking forward to seeing if it lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Boldwood Books. I have yet to read a book published by Boldwood that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 26 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Tuscany, Italy 🇮🇹.
This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonist is Dan Armstrong. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on.
The storyline had me hooked immediately and I love the way that Dan goes about his detective work. There was so much going on that it kept me entertained thoroughly throughout with mystery after mystery and clue after clue. It was filled with mystery, laughter, murder, clues, romance, doggy treats, tension, suspense and so much more!! It is absolutely perfect to read either curled in front of the fire or lying on a beach which not many books can achieve. I never did work out who the killer was and was completely shocked when they were discovered. A great achievement as I am a huge crime fan and tend to work out who did what quite early on. The atmosphere was perfectly suited to the Mystery and I loved exploring Tuscany. I also loved all the historical information which was definitely an added bonus as I do enjoy discovering more history which I will be digging into more after I finish the book. I would definitely say that the author has done their research which is always a bonus as there's nothing worse than a book littered with errors which could have been avoided by doing research on the topics. TA Williams writing skills made me feel like I had been swept away to Tuscany and was walking along trying to solve the crime and mystery along with Dan and Oscar.
I enjoyed getting into this series and managed to read this book in one sitting. I wont say anymore about that as I don't want to spoil anything for future readers by giving too much away. I enjoy how we begin with the mystery of the threats being shot into the set and later find more and more about each of the characters and what they are hiding. I also enjoyed how all the storylines weaved together nicely towards the end and there wasn't any loose threads as another pet hate is ending a book with unsolved mysteries.
I would liken the speed of this book to a roller-coaster where it starts off slowly as it builds up and then once it hits a certain point you are at the top of the coaster and start travelling at speed with twists, turns, some slow parts and others faster until you hit the ending which is not quite what you would expect! A great start and introduction (for me) into this fantastic looking series.
Although this is the third book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too.
There was a fantastic selection of characters that I met in this book along with our main protagonist Dan. I was fascinated watching the character development from the start to the end of this book and I'm looking forward to how Dan started right at the beginning and to continuing to read this series to watch his character continue to grow. I have to admit though that my favourite character just had to be Oscar!! As a huge animal lover myself any books that include animals gets bonus points for me and this one got mega points as Oscar played a main part!! He is such a sweet but mischievous boy and absolutely adorable!! I also enjoyed meeting all the cast and different characters that we meet on set. They were all well rounded, strong, realistic with their own quirks and personalities. One of my other favourite characters just had to be Rachel AKA Dizzy. The fact that she could fall over dust reminded me of myself so much!! I actually think I've just met someone who may actually be more clumsy than I am!! There was the perfect amount of characters to keep you guessing who the killer is and I enjoyed trying to work out who was hiding what even though I kept getting it wrong!! I'm looking forward to meeting Dan and Oscar again in previous and future books in this series!
Overall a fun and easy to read page turning cosy murder mystery with the perfect amount of crime, history and humour that will keep you turning the pages.
Genres covered in this novel include Historical Fiction, Historical Mysteries, International Mystery & Crime, Private Investigator Mystery, Traditional Detective Mysteries, Cozy Mystery, Murder, British Detective Stories, Literary Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Amateur Sleuths, International Mysteries & Crime, Mysteries, Historical Thriller, Mystery & Suspense Fiction, Suspense, and Crime amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of T E Kinsey, Beth Byers, Agatha Christie, Lee Strauss and anyone looking for a very easy, page turning and enjoyable read.
267 pages.
This book is just £2.84 to purchase on kindle, free on kindle unlimited and £9.99 on paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#MurderInFlorence #ArmstrongAndOscarCozyMystery #TAWilliams #BoldwoodBooks #BoldwoodBloggers #BookAndTonic #RachelsRandomResources #rararesources #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #NetGalley #KindleUnlimited
@MurderInFlorence @ArmstrongAndOscarCozyMystery @TAWilliams @BoldwoodBooks @BoldwoodBloggers @BookAndTonic@Netgalley @RachelsRandomResources @rararesources @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Goodreads @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnlimited
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April 7, 2023
A fabulous third novel in what is becoming a favourite series to look forward to and savour!
Having retired from the UK Police Force, Dan Armstrong has relocated to Italy and set himself up as a private detective. Along with his sidekick, labrador Oscar. he takes on whatever cases come his way. Have struck up a friendship with the local law officers, he works with them - not against them - and where he goes, Oscar goes too. This time round he's called upon to investigate a spate of attacks and threats at a Hollywood Movie Set, where they are filming in the gorgeous Tuscan countryside. Dan soon uncovers all the niggles between cast and crew, but he really needs to find out who is behind the threats . . .
I fall more in love with Oscar with each novel in this series. Dan's alright, but there is no doubt that Oscar has my heart, lol (We have our own Oscar, a chocolate lab). I've followed TA Williams' romances for several years and must say he has transferred to murder mysteries easily. There are always plenty of clues and lots going on - the culprit or culprits are never easily identified and each book is a brand new story in a new setting, showing off more of the wonderful Tuscan countryside. Who wouldn't want to live there after reading this series? As always, I was completely befuddled as to 'whodunnit' but, boy, did I enjoy the ride. An easy five stars to give - and I look forward to the next one!
Having retired from the UK Police Force, Dan Armstrong has relocated to Italy and set himself up as a private detective. Along with his sidekick, labrador Oscar. he takes on whatever cases come his way. Have struck up a friendship with the local law officers, he works with them - not against them - and where he goes, Oscar goes too. This time round he's called upon to investigate a spate of attacks and threats at a Hollywood Movie Set, where they are filming in the gorgeous Tuscan countryside. Dan soon uncovers all the niggles between cast and crew, but he really needs to find out who is behind the threats . . .
I fall more in love with Oscar with each novel in this series. Dan's alright, but there is no doubt that Oscar has my heart, lol (We have our own Oscar, a chocolate lab). I've followed TA Williams' romances for several years and must say he has transferred to murder mysteries easily. There are always plenty of clues and lots going on - the culprit or culprits are never easily identified and each book is a brand new story in a new setting, showing off more of the wonderful Tuscan countryside. Who wouldn't want to live there after reading this series? As always, I was completely befuddled as to 'whodunnit' but, boy, did I enjoy the ride. An easy five stars to give - and I look forward to the next one!
July 23, 2023
Garbage
July 5, 2024
A little cheesier than the first 2, but still not a bad read.
April 10, 2023
This book really was tremendous fun from beginning to end, although Dan has found that life as a private investigator – even in lovely Florence – can have its less glamorous side. But there’s a Hollywood film crew in town, filming some Medici-related historical scenes at various locations – and it seems someone doesn’t want them there, firing arrows with a chilling but clear message wrapped around the shafts, “Stop filming or start dying”. And when the local police can’t spare the manpower to provide a constant presence, Dan is brought in as the investigator, dressed in full Renaissance costume to blend in with the cast (yes, including the tights…), getting familiar with the cast and crew and sometimes appearing in the crowd scenes – until things get serious, one of the crew is found dead, the threat becomes increasingly real, and the set becomes a dangerous place to be.
As always, the characters are wonderfully drawn, from producer and director (and I learned quite a bit about the difference) through the several intriguing lead actors to the technical team, the writer and historical consultant, the gophers and security team. The threat might well come from within – there are certainly enough undercurrents and complications – but then again there might be a different connection, all tied up with the bloody history of the Medicis and the Pazzi uprising. There are suspects aplenty, all moving in and out of the frame in turn – and the dynamics and relationships between them are simply fascinating and quite perfectly handled.
One of the things I really love about this series – and I must say that you could easily read this book as a standalone, but seriously, why would you? – is Dan’s first person narration. He has such a wonderful wry and self-deprecating humour that lightens every scene – and I just adore his relationship with labrador companion Oscar, the notorious womaniser and devourer of anything remotely food-related that comes his way (sometimes with unfortunate and less than fragrant consequences). There’s a nice little frisson of possible romance for Dan in this book too, not easy when it’s difficult to know who to trust and when the woman in question looks increasingly like a possible suspect.
The story itself is excellent – plenty of complications and subplots, some with unexpected links, and they’re all very satisfyingly brought together by the book’s conclusion. The settings, as always, are beautifully drawn – the author’s books don’t just have a Tuscan flavour, they entirely transport you to the location where you can taste the food and feel the warmth of the sun. And despite the strong thread of humour, this was a really compelling read – I read the whole book in a single sitting, entirely immersed in its many twists and turns as the tension steadily built, and loved every single moment.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, I think this might have been my favourite in the series so far – and I’m really delighted that Dan and Oscar will have many more adventures to come…
As always, the characters are wonderfully drawn, from producer and director (and I learned quite a bit about the difference) through the several intriguing lead actors to the technical team, the writer and historical consultant, the gophers and security team. The threat might well come from within – there are certainly enough undercurrents and complications – but then again there might be a different connection, all tied up with the bloody history of the Medicis and the Pazzi uprising. There are suspects aplenty, all moving in and out of the frame in turn – and the dynamics and relationships between them are simply fascinating and quite perfectly handled.
One of the things I really love about this series – and I must say that you could easily read this book as a standalone, but seriously, why would you? – is Dan’s first person narration. He has such a wonderful wry and self-deprecating humour that lightens every scene – and I just adore his relationship with labrador companion Oscar, the notorious womaniser and devourer of anything remotely food-related that comes his way (sometimes with unfortunate and less than fragrant consequences). There’s a nice little frisson of possible romance for Dan in this book too, not easy when it’s difficult to know who to trust and when the woman in question looks increasingly like a possible suspect.
The story itself is excellent – plenty of complications and subplots, some with unexpected links, and they’re all very satisfyingly brought together by the book’s conclusion. The settings, as always, are beautifully drawn – the author’s books don’t just have a Tuscan flavour, they entirely transport you to the location where you can taste the food and feel the warmth of the sun. And despite the strong thread of humour, this was a really compelling read – I read the whole book in a single sitting, entirely immersed in its many twists and turns as the tension steadily built, and loved every single moment.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, I think this might have been my favourite in the series so far – and I’m really delighted that Dan and Oscar will have many more adventures to come…
June 21, 2023
When arrows are being shot at the cast and crew on a movie set, private investigator and former, London detective, Dan Armstrong is brought in to find out who is pulling the fiendish deeds. As the questioning begins, multiple motives unfold.
When the errant, arrow attacks turn deadly, Dan grows more concerned. Revenge, lover's quarrels, and anger thicken the plot. The list of suspects grows longer, including the beautiful, main star who feels her life is in danger. Will Dan be able to sort through the clues before another body falls?
Author Williams once again weaves a delightful whodunnit with a hint of romance in the Italian city of Florence. I truly enjoyed this latest tale in the Armstrong and Oscar series. A cozy treat for mystery fans, highly recommended!
When the errant, arrow attacks turn deadly, Dan grows more concerned. Revenge, lover's quarrels, and anger thicken the plot. The list of suspects grows longer, including the beautiful, main star who feels her life is in danger. Will Dan be able to sort through the clues before another body falls?
Author Williams once again weaves a delightful whodunnit with a hint of romance in the Italian city of Florence. I truly enjoyed this latest tale in the Armstrong and Oscar series. A cozy treat for mystery fans, highly recommended!
March 20, 2025
Another very readable cosy by Williams featuring ex-Met detective Dan Armstrong and his beautiful black lab, Oscar.
This time Dan is hired by an assistant director of a film to investigate the cast and crew, on location in Florence obviously, being terrorised by a series of crossbow arrow attacks. The archer's intended target list is almost as long as Dan's suspect one, given the amount of people working on set, and things ramp up when one of the arrows hits its mark with a deadly precision.
I am still enjoying this series. Williams added in a touch of romance this time which was... Well I wouldn't say I think romance is his forte. I even thought about a 3 1/2 rating due to the clunkiness of this storyline. However, Oscar being so loveable saved the day.
4 out of 5
This time Dan is hired by an assistant director of a film to investigate the cast and crew, on location in Florence obviously, being terrorised by a series of crossbow arrow attacks. The archer's intended target list is almost as long as Dan's suspect one, given the amount of people working on set, and things ramp up when one of the arrows hits its mark with a deadly precision.
I am still enjoying this series. Williams added in a touch of romance this time which was... Well I wouldn't say I think romance is his forte. I even thought about a 3 1/2 rating due to the clunkiness of this storyline. However, Oscar being so loveable saved the day.
4 out of 5
April 10, 2023
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
So far, this is my favorite in the Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mystery Series! Everything was laid out perfectly, creating a wonderful mystery from start to finish. The movie set angle was amazing! I loved the premise behind it, along with the unique way that the culprit leaves behind their calling card through archery. It really felt as though Dan was in his element, along with Oscar, his trusty canine sidekick. There were touches of humor spread throughout as well, particularly when Dan has to dress up like the rest of the cast and crew, in what I imagine to be like what I’d see when I go to my local Renaissance Faire.
I loved the build-up. With the first attack, it posed a threat–until the next attack, where someone ends up dead. From there, the stack kept building with intensity and intrigue, and I wasn’t sure what would happen next, or who would be the next target. Dan approaches it with methodical and analytical measure, allowing me my own checklist right along with him, keeping tabs on potential suspects. I love puzzles, and Murder in Florence felt like one gigantic puzzle the reader gets to solve, without giving anything away until the precise moment.
One particular scene with Dan and Oscar in the woods proved to be pretty epic. Has Dan been the target all along, or is someone else at risk? How close is he to breaking the case? And at what cost to those he cares for?
As always, a T.A. Williams story wouldn’t be complete without fantastic scenery, which often becomes another character. Dan and Oscar could have solved this mystery anywhere, but it wouldn’t feel right if it hadn’t been in Florence. A friend of mine is an avid reader of T.A. Williams and we both commiserate on how much we’d love to visit Tuscany someday, fueled on by the beautiful backdrop and the delicious food that Williams provides within his books. It’s so nice to have that experience, along with helping Dan solve murder mysteries along the way. This was a definite five-star experience!
So far, this is my favorite in the Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mystery Series! Everything was laid out perfectly, creating a wonderful mystery from start to finish. The movie set angle was amazing! I loved the premise behind it, along with the unique way that the culprit leaves behind their calling card through archery. It really felt as though Dan was in his element, along with Oscar, his trusty canine sidekick. There were touches of humor spread throughout as well, particularly when Dan has to dress up like the rest of the cast and crew, in what I imagine to be like what I’d see when I go to my local Renaissance Faire.
I loved the build-up. With the first attack, it posed a threat–until the next attack, where someone ends up dead. From there, the stack kept building with intensity and intrigue, and I wasn’t sure what would happen next, or who would be the next target. Dan approaches it with methodical and analytical measure, allowing me my own checklist right along with him, keeping tabs on potential suspects. I love puzzles, and Murder in Florence felt like one gigantic puzzle the reader gets to solve, without giving anything away until the precise moment.
One particular scene with Dan and Oscar in the woods proved to be pretty epic. Has Dan been the target all along, or is someone else at risk? How close is he to breaking the case? And at what cost to those he cares for?
As always, a T.A. Williams story wouldn’t be complete without fantastic scenery, which often becomes another character. Dan and Oscar could have solved this mystery anywhere, but it wouldn’t feel right if it hadn’t been in Florence. A friend of mine is an avid reader of T.A. Williams and we both commiserate on how much we’d love to visit Tuscany someday, fueled on by the beautiful backdrop and the delicious food that Williams provides within his books. It’s so nice to have that experience, along with helping Dan solve murder mysteries along the way. This was a definite five-star experience!
November 10, 2023
This story had a good plot and many possible suspects for an unusual crime. There is a thread of a budding romance, but it doesn't distract from the work of a retired Scotland Yard officer turned Private Investigator in Florence. The setting is beautiful and historic, as it's where a fictional story about the Medici family is being filmed before the movie crew becomes the target of an unusual threat.
Animal lovers will enjoy Armstrong's faithful dog, Oscar (especially near the end), and mystery readers will enjoy the puzzling events. I realized the author must be male with a pen name, because not only is the book written from Armstrong's perspective, it has a male character's hallmarks, which I appreciated because the story was more genuine. But I did roll my eyes often at the way he would grab a beer while on duty and supposedly guarding a movie cast on set.
I had to read this over a period of several weeks with stops and starts, but for my fellow readers who don't like steamy situations or crude and rough language, I don't remember there being any. There are some blunt ways of saying things that are part of the way the lead male character would be likely to think. Overall, I liked the book and bought the next one in the series.
Animal lovers will enjoy Armstrong's faithful dog, Oscar (especially near the end), and mystery readers will enjoy the puzzling events. I realized the author must be male with a pen name, because not only is the book written from Armstrong's perspective, it has a male character's hallmarks, which I appreciated because the story was more genuine. But I did roll my eyes often at the way he would grab a beer while on duty and supposedly guarding a movie cast on set.
I had to read this over a period of several weeks with stops and starts, but for my fellow readers who don't like steamy situations or crude and rough language, I don't remember there being any. There are some blunt ways of saying things that are part of the way the lead male character would be likely to think. Overall, I liked the book and bought the next one in the series.
October 18, 2023
These books are so fun. Dan and his trusty pup are on the case again, from trailing adultering husbands to sleuthing on movie sets, Dan is firmly settled in Italy and into his new life. The books are entertaining and fun to watch Dan discover that life and love did not end with his divorce. The clues to the killer are peppered throughout the book with enough tension to keep you guessing, and even Dan’s new lady love isn’t off the hook. The book is evenly paced, with ups and downs but it always keeps moving.
October 20, 2024
I really enjoyed this book in the series. So much that I ignored my pile of ironing and read it in just over 24 hours. This one, more like a thriller romance. Another fun enjoyable read.
October 10, 2025
This series is light and entertaining, a good palate cleanser. The setting, the characters (including the dog, Oscar), the plots, and mysteries are well done.
March 17, 2023
I’m loving this series and return to Florence safe in the knowledge of a fun and entertaining read. Dan Armstrong, former Chief Inspector at the Met, is now a private investigator , frequently helping out the Italian police due to a budding friendship with Virgilio, the Chief of Police. But now, Dan also takes on cases of his own. This time round, he’s trying out his new camera to catch out a cheating husband when Virgilio asks him to look into the matter of some threats made to the crew of a film company from the USA. These threats, odd that they should be sent to an American cast, are even more unusual in that they are delivered by crossbow.
Dan takes the case, and with Oscar in tow – naturally – he sets off to question the cast and crew about the threats. Never did he imagine he’d spend the coming days dressed in Renaissance garb, complete with tights and a floppy hat, but in order to blend in he does so, much to the amusement of his Florentine friends and colleagues. However, tracking the archer is not easy, whoever is sending these threats is skilled and light on his or her feet, but at least no-one has been killed yet.
Ah, and then someone is found dead in the woods with an arrow in his back. The case is developing at a pace that Dan can’t match, and this murder requires him to work with the police now to catch the culprit.
This book continues with great characterisation as Dan settles into his new life, honing his skills as an author and investigator, and appreciating the beauty of his surroundings. He considers himself a lucky man to work in such a beautiful setting, and with a hint of romance on the horizon, life for Dan is going well. Another great mystery and a series I’m happy to return to.
Dan takes the case, and with Oscar in tow – naturally – he sets off to question the cast and crew about the threats. Never did he imagine he’d spend the coming days dressed in Renaissance garb, complete with tights and a floppy hat, but in order to blend in he does so, much to the amusement of his Florentine friends and colleagues. However, tracking the archer is not easy, whoever is sending these threats is skilled and light on his or her feet, but at least no-one has been killed yet.
Ah, and then someone is found dead in the woods with an arrow in his back. The case is developing at a pace that Dan can’t match, and this murder requires him to work with the police now to catch the culprit.
This book continues with great characterisation as Dan settles into his new life, honing his skills as an author and investigator, and appreciating the beauty of his surroundings. He considers himself a lucky man to work in such a beautiful setting, and with a hint of romance on the horizon, life for Dan is going well. Another great mystery and a series I’m happy to return to.
May 10, 2023
I’m a lover of murder mysteries and Italy. But I’m really not loving this series. It feels very amateur- the first book or two I was like that’s fine they are getting their groove and going to figure this out. But I just don’t love this. Dan feels very flat and forcefully trying to be funny in some of the quips about his age and how he thinks. Also, for being a retired detective he is pretty idiotic in how he handles most situations. And he ALWAYS* falls for some woman that may or may not be the murderer. (*always being in these first 3 books) I just expected these books to be a *bit* more. More describing of the beautiful scenery. More suspense of who could have done it. I may try to read the next one to see if they get better but only because they are quick audio listens. I don’t expect a deep dark murder mystery, I in-fact enjoy many light hearted ones like this but this series is just not fantastic. The Verlaque and Bonnet series I think handles the laid back mystery genre much better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2025
another outstanding book from TA Williams
Books from TA Williams never disappoint, and this is no exception. He takes you into the heart of Italy and you almost feel like you can see touch and smell the surrounding countryside, villages and cities. The mysteries are always intriguing and well plotted. I highly recommend the series.
Books from TA Williams never disappoint, and this is no exception. He takes you into the heart of Italy and you almost feel like you can see touch and smell the surrounding countryside, villages and cities. The mysteries are always intriguing and well plotted. I highly recommend the series.
May 26, 2023
I'm really surprised that this book is a best-seller and that so many people like it. It was annoyingly similar to the first one in the series with too many suspects; Dan falling in love with a possible suspect; too much of the dog and too much about food. At least he's resolved the situation with his ex-wife. If there's a fourth in the series I won't bother with it.
January 6, 2024
MY RATING GUIDE: 5 Stars. I am really enjoying this (somewhat) new-to-me mystery series. I like the main character, the mystery elements and the voice artist for this series. Simon Mattacks is excellent! I love his voice for the MCs and the female parts. His accents sound wonderful (but I am no expert). I have been purchasing the audios for this series and look forward to reading/listening to the next.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I LOVED THIS; IT WAS GREAT! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
In the past year ~
Following his retirement at 55 and a divorce that quickly followed, former London Metropolitan police Homicide Chief Inspector Dan Armstrong decides to move to Tuscany, IT. Through circumstances that follow and a business acquaintance which soon develops into a friendship built upon respect, Armstrong settles in Florence and begins a new career as a Private Investigator.
Present day, Autumn ~
Hollywood celebrity actor Selena Gardner is in Tuscany on a new film. Apparently the company has been receiving death threats since their first arrival a month ago. When the police are finally notified, Armstrong’s inspector friend from Tuscany’s Murder Squad (who influenced his decision to become a private investigator) asks Armstrong if he might look into the matter. So far, these have been threats only and the police are limited in what they can do. Armstrong is informed that along with the notes, a cross bow and arrow seem to be somehow involved.
Comments ~
1) MURDER IN FLORENCE is bk 3 in the Armstrong & Oscar Mystery series. I have enjoyed each one although they stand (well enough) alone. The MC’s personal life develops from book to book but reading out of order won’t reduce enjoyment noticeably. (I simply like and recommend them all).
2) This is a Character Driven Police Procedural mystery series. I need to like and respect the main character for me to pursue such series, as is the case here. I enjoy the descriptions of the Tuscany countryside and historic sites as I read. It helps tremendously that I appreciate the tone the author has chosen for this series, as well - using the dry wit of a seasoned, intelligent former police officer who, even after a life and a career sprinkled with difficult circumstances, has kept a positive outlook.
3) I love Simon Mattacks voice for Armstrong, the Italian police inspector and the female voices he uses. He’s incredibly pleasing for listening. I’m not sure what other books he’s done, but I will have to check them out. I feel this is a series where the audio surpasses the written form due to the excellent work of the voice artist. (Sometimes the opposite is the case).
4) This series might be considered a Cozy Mystery but I find it on the Intelligent end of the spectrum rather than being silly or ridiculous (the latter not being my style).
5) I am enjoying this series greatly. MURDER IN FLORENCE was a great read/listen. I have the next book in the series in my tbrs and intend to purchase more. I highly recommend both MIF and the series to readers who enjoy this style. IMO, the audio is well worth grabbing, even if it is not as long as other books.
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Limited strong language is used. (Less than 8x?)
VIOLENCE - This is basically an Intelligent Cozy Mystery. (Not dark or particularly graphic in details).
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I LOVED THIS; IT WAS GREAT! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
In the past year ~
Following his retirement at 55 and a divorce that quickly followed, former London Metropolitan police Homicide Chief Inspector Dan Armstrong decides to move to Tuscany, IT. Through circumstances that follow and a business acquaintance which soon develops into a friendship built upon respect, Armstrong settles in Florence and begins a new career as a Private Investigator.
Present day, Autumn ~
Hollywood celebrity actor Selena Gardner is in Tuscany on a new film. Apparently the company has been receiving death threats since their first arrival a month ago. When the police are finally notified, Armstrong’s inspector friend from Tuscany’s Murder Squad (who influenced his decision to become a private investigator) asks Armstrong if he might look into the matter. So far, these have been threats only and the police are limited in what they can do. Armstrong is informed that along with the notes, a cross bow and arrow seem to be somehow involved.
Comments ~
1) MURDER IN FLORENCE is bk 3 in the Armstrong & Oscar Mystery series. I have enjoyed each one although they stand (well enough) alone. The MC’s personal life develops from book to book but reading out of order won’t reduce enjoyment noticeably. (I simply like and recommend them all).
2) This is a Character Driven Police Procedural mystery series. I need to like and respect the main character for me to pursue such series, as is the case here. I enjoy the descriptions of the Tuscany countryside and historic sites as I read. It helps tremendously that I appreciate the tone the author has chosen for this series, as well - using the dry wit of a seasoned, intelligent former police officer who, even after a life and a career sprinkled with difficult circumstances, has kept a positive outlook.
3) I love Simon Mattacks voice for Armstrong, the Italian police inspector and the female voices he uses. He’s incredibly pleasing for listening. I’m not sure what other books he’s done, but I will have to check them out. I feel this is a series where the audio surpasses the written form due to the excellent work of the voice artist. (Sometimes the opposite is the case).
4) This series might be considered a Cozy Mystery but I find it on the Intelligent end of the spectrum rather than being silly or ridiculous (the latter not being my style).
5) I am enjoying this series greatly. MURDER IN FLORENCE was a great read/listen. I have the next book in the series in my tbrs and intend to purchase more. I highly recommend both MIF and the series to readers who enjoy this style. IMO, the audio is well worth grabbing, even if it is not as long as other books.
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Limited strong language is used. (Less than 8x?)
VIOLENCE - This is basically an Intelligent Cozy Mystery. (Not dark or particularly graphic in details).
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
April 10, 2023
3.8 Stars
One Liner: Makes me want to go to Italy!
Dan Armstrong is now a private detective with an office in the Florence suburbs. He has cases, too, except that most of them deal with suspicious spouses, annoyed neighbors, etc. However, his friend and Chief of Police Virgilio sends a Hollywood case to Dan.
A film crew with the famous heroine Selena Gardner is filming in Florence, and someone doesn’t like it. The team has been getting threats with messages wrapped around arrows. Dan takes the case and finds that there seems to be a lot of scandals and gossip than danger. But when one of the prominent team members gets killed, Dan realizes he needs to step up the game.
Soon, Dan finds out there’s much he doesn’t know about the case, and this could put him and Oscar, his trusty black lab, in danger. Can Dan solve the case in time?
The story comes in Dan’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the third book in the series and works as a standalone. There are necessary references to the past to keep the reader up to date about Dan’s personal life.
The chapters are shorter (thankfully), though the pacing is slow to medium. This is the kind of book you cannot rush through. With such a beautiful setting and enough mentions of food, there’s no point in rushing, either.
The book also gives insights into the lives of celebrities and the complexities involved in making a film. Since we see things from Dan’s perspective, there’s no overload of information.
The mystery takes time to unravel, and we have scenes where Dan and Virgilio discuss the same information multiple times. It can get a bit boring, especially in the middle, but things start to come together rather well.
I like how seemingly unrelated bits tie up to take the story to the conclusion. The pages allocated to ‘other things’ aren’t fillers but have a role in the overall plot. Oh, there’s a short explanation of the various types of law force departments in Italy.
I don’t like the repeated mention of Dizzy’s clumsiness. I get that she is klutzy (some of us are), and it’s okay to use it in a few scenes to advance the plot. However, repeated references make it a little too excessive.
I don’t have to separately mention Oscar, should I? He is a darling, always ready to be cuddled by ladies and fed by anyone. The book would be boring without him.
To summarize, Murder in Florence is a good continuation of the series, with a great setting, yummy food, an adorable doggy, and a few dead bodies. Looking forward to the fourth installment (and I’m so happy for Dan!).
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderinFlorence
One Liner: Makes me want to go to Italy!
Dan Armstrong is now a private detective with an office in the Florence suburbs. He has cases, too, except that most of them deal with suspicious spouses, annoyed neighbors, etc. However, his friend and Chief of Police Virgilio sends a Hollywood case to Dan.
A film crew with the famous heroine Selena Gardner is filming in Florence, and someone doesn’t like it. The team has been getting threats with messages wrapped around arrows. Dan takes the case and finds that there seems to be a lot of scandals and gossip than danger. But when one of the prominent team members gets killed, Dan realizes he needs to step up the game.
Soon, Dan finds out there’s much he doesn’t know about the case, and this could put him and Oscar, his trusty black lab, in danger. Can Dan solve the case in time?
The story comes in Dan’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the third book in the series and works as a standalone. There are necessary references to the past to keep the reader up to date about Dan’s personal life.
The chapters are shorter (thankfully), though the pacing is slow to medium. This is the kind of book you cannot rush through. With such a beautiful setting and enough mentions of food, there’s no point in rushing, either.
The book also gives insights into the lives of celebrities and the complexities involved in making a film. Since we see things from Dan’s perspective, there’s no overload of information.
The mystery takes time to unravel, and we have scenes where Dan and Virgilio discuss the same information multiple times. It can get a bit boring, especially in the middle, but things start to come together rather well.
I like how seemingly unrelated bits tie up to take the story to the conclusion. The pages allocated to ‘other things’ aren’t fillers but have a role in the overall plot. Oh, there’s a short explanation of the various types of law force departments in Italy.
I don’t like the repeated mention of Dizzy’s clumsiness. I get that she is klutzy (some of us are), and it’s okay to use it in a few scenes to advance the plot. However, repeated references make it a little too excessive.
I don’t have to separately mention Oscar, should I? He is a darling, always ready to be cuddled by ladies and fed by anyone. The book would be boring without him.
To summarize, Murder in Florence is a good continuation of the series, with a great setting, yummy food, an adorable doggy, and a few dead bodies. Looking forward to the fourth installment (and I’m so happy for Dan!).
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderinFlorence
August 6, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Murder in Florence is the third Armstrong and Oscar cozy destination mystery by T.A. Williams. Released 7th April 2023 by Boldwood books, it's 267 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series are also currently available on KU.
This is a beautifully descriptive and well written destination mystery set in Tuscany. Expat former policeman Dan Armstrong and his trusty canine sidekick Oscar are asked to help investigate a spate of attacks and accidents on the set of a movie in production in the area. Dan's ostensibly along to facilitate translations in English for the police and witnesses, but his insights are valuable and he and the lead detective have a good rapport and friendship.
The plotting is solid and the dialogue and characterizations are wonderfully rendered and believable. The mystery, denouement, and resolution are self contained in this volume, so it works well enough as a standalone, but the writing and mystery are so well planned and executed, that it would make an excellent weekend binge or buddy read. There are currently 4 books available. The scenery, characterizations, and mystery are consistently high quality and complex enough that it would also make a fine selection for a mystery book club discussion.
It's not derivative at all, but it reminded me in a lot of good ways of Leon's exceptional Brunetti books as well as Walker's lovely Bruno, chief of police books. Fans of those authors will find a lot to enjoy here.
Five stars. Highly recommended.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Murder in Florence is the third Armstrong and Oscar cozy destination mystery by T.A. Williams. Released 7th April 2023 by Boldwood books, it's 267 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series are also currently available on KU.
This is a beautifully descriptive and well written destination mystery set in Tuscany. Expat former policeman Dan Armstrong and his trusty canine sidekick Oscar are asked to help investigate a spate of attacks and accidents on the set of a movie in production in the area. Dan's ostensibly along to facilitate translations in English for the police and witnesses, but his insights are valuable and he and the lead detective have a good rapport and friendship.
The plotting is solid and the dialogue and characterizations are wonderfully rendered and believable. The mystery, denouement, and resolution are self contained in this volume, so it works well enough as a standalone, but the writing and mystery are so well planned and executed, that it would make an excellent weekend binge or buddy read. There are currently 4 books available. The scenery, characterizations, and mystery are consistently high quality and complex enough that it would also make a fine selection for a mystery book club discussion.
It's not derivative at all, but it reminded me in a lot of good ways of Leon's exceptional Brunetti books as well as Walker's lovely Bruno, chief of police books. Fans of those authors will find a lot to enjoy here.
Five stars. Highly recommended.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
June 3, 2023
This is the third book in the Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mystery series. Dan Armstrong is a retired detective who had relocated to Florence, Italy and works as a Private Investigator. He is often requested to help the police when a crime is committed (usually murder) and they need a pair of fresh eyes from someone with experience. Oscar is his trustworthy sidekick who has a sixth sense and often helps to solve the crime. In this book, Dan has been hired by a Hollywood Production Company to provide security, but it ends up that he is solving a murder. They are making a film about the Medicis and there is a series of arrow attacks with messages. The cast and crew are uncomfortable and the motive will have a lot to do with these attacks. First Dan has to find the motive, then he will find the culprit.
I enjoy cozy mysteries where the protagonist has some experience investigating (PI, retired police, coroner etc.) This brings a bit of realism to the story. I love the location of Florence and the Tuscan Countryside, especially as Italy is on my bucket list. The descriptions are wonderful and give me an idea of what the scenery and location are like. This book has a large cast of characters as the movie set is the major setting of the story. I loved how there were several stereotypical characters you find on a movie set. It was fun to get to know many of them and it also gives a lot of suspects to investigate. There were many red herrings and every time I thought I had it figured out, something changed my mind. Being a history buff, I enjoyed the bits about the Medici family and the history surrounding it. Of course Dan and Oscar solve the case, but there is a lot of action along the way. I recommend this book and series to cozy mystery lovers, especially if you love ones set in Europe. The audiobook of Murder in Florence was narrated by Simon Mattacks and he has such a great voice for Dan Armstrong. It is no nonsense, yet expresses well when needed. I hope he continues to narrated this series.
I enjoy cozy mysteries where the protagonist has some experience investigating (PI, retired police, coroner etc.) This brings a bit of realism to the story. I love the location of Florence and the Tuscan Countryside, especially as Italy is on my bucket list. The descriptions are wonderful and give me an idea of what the scenery and location are like. This book has a large cast of characters as the movie set is the major setting of the story. I loved how there were several stereotypical characters you find on a movie set. It was fun to get to know many of them and it also gives a lot of suspects to investigate. There were many red herrings and every time I thought I had it figured out, something changed my mind. Being a history buff, I enjoyed the bits about the Medici family and the history surrounding it. Of course Dan and Oscar solve the case, but there is a lot of action along the way. I recommend this book and series to cozy mystery lovers, especially if you love ones set in Europe. The audiobook of Murder in Florence was narrated by Simon Mattacks and he has such a great voice for Dan Armstrong. It is no nonsense, yet expresses well when needed. I hope he continues to narrated this series.
April 1, 2023
Murder in Florence turned out to be the second book about Dan Armstrong, a former Chief Inspector at the Met who has retired to Florence and now works as a Private Investigator.
Somehow I managed to miss the first instalment in this series but I discovered this gem on Netgalley and was immediately triggered by the title to request a review copy and I must say: I was not disappointed.
Dan and his dog Oscar, as well as his friend Vergillio are likeable and interesting characters. The setting in Florence of-course is fabulous and the plot about deaths during the shooting of a movie on several locations in the province of Firenze is very interesting. As a second house owner in Tuscany I am quite familiar with the scenery and historic places and buildings that are mentioned in the book.
I was very pleased to notice that the author also mentioned some less visited places in Tuscany like Montaione and one of my favourite places in Tuscany: San Vivaldo. The monastery and the quaint little chapels surrounding it are certainly lovely but I was a bit disappointed that the most striking aspect of this site, the absolutely lovely terracotta scenes from the live of Christ inside the chapels, isn't mentioned, leading me to suppose that the author hasn't visited the site or unfortunately missed the best feature of San Vivaldo. Anyway, I can heartily recommend a visit, followed by a lovely pasta lunch at the Osteria San Vivaldo in the nearby village.
The storyline of the book was very interesting and I loved the references to the history of Florence during the Renaissance, although there were some little glitches in the historical information about the Pazzi uprising.
I will certainly read the first episode in this series and watch Netgalley in expectancy of further instalments.
Somehow I managed to miss the first instalment in this series but I discovered this gem on Netgalley and was immediately triggered by the title to request a review copy and I must say: I was not disappointed.
Dan and his dog Oscar, as well as his friend Vergillio are likeable and interesting characters. The setting in Florence of-course is fabulous and the plot about deaths during the shooting of a movie on several locations in the province of Firenze is very interesting. As a second house owner in Tuscany I am quite familiar with the scenery and historic places and buildings that are mentioned in the book.
I was very pleased to notice that the author also mentioned some less visited places in Tuscany like Montaione and one of my favourite places in Tuscany: San Vivaldo. The monastery and the quaint little chapels surrounding it are certainly lovely but I was a bit disappointed that the most striking aspect of this site, the absolutely lovely terracotta scenes from the live of Christ inside the chapels, isn't mentioned, leading me to suppose that the author hasn't visited the site or unfortunately missed the best feature of San Vivaldo. Anyway, I can heartily recommend a visit, followed by a lovely pasta lunch at the Osteria San Vivaldo in the nearby village.
The storyline of the book was very interesting and I loved the references to the history of Florence during the Renaissance, although there were some little glitches in the historical information about the Pazzi uprising.
I will certainly read the first episode in this series and watch Netgalley in expectancy of further instalments.
April 17, 2023
Murder in Florence is the third delightful installment in best-selling author T A Williams’ hugely enjoyable Armstrong and Oscar series.
As a private investigator working in the suburbs of Florence, Dan Armstrong isn’t exactly living La Dolce Vita. Glitz and glamour are in increasingly short supply – even when he is asked to investigate the recent spate of violent attacks on a movie set in the Italian city. With silver screen royalty Serena Gardner terrified that her life in jeopardy, Dan begins to take a closer look at this case – and quickly discovers that what happens behind the camera is far more scandalous – and deadly – than what happens in front of it!
The cast and crew of this film all have a secret they are absolutely desperate to keep hidden. No actual murder has been committed and Dan cannot help but feel that these attacks are a warning for somebody – until the first body is found. With Dan and trusty sidekick Oscar on the case, they are working against the clock as they try to catch a dangerous killer before another body is found. As the terror and jeopardy intensify on the streets of Florence, will Dan and Oscar manage to solve this case in time? Or has the murderer already got the next victim in their sights: Dan Armstrong?
T A Williams’ Armstrong and Oscar series is so much fun and Murder in Florence is the latest gripping page-turner full of nail-biting tension, beautifully evoked locations and nuanced characters who aren’t always what they seem. A first-rate cozy mystery that keeps readers guessing until the last page, T A Williams’ Murder in Florence is so addictive, putting it down is simply not an option.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As a private investigator working in the suburbs of Florence, Dan Armstrong isn’t exactly living La Dolce Vita. Glitz and glamour are in increasingly short supply – even when he is asked to investigate the recent spate of violent attacks on a movie set in the Italian city. With silver screen royalty Serena Gardner terrified that her life in jeopardy, Dan begins to take a closer look at this case – and quickly discovers that what happens behind the camera is far more scandalous – and deadly – than what happens in front of it!
The cast and crew of this film all have a secret they are absolutely desperate to keep hidden. No actual murder has been committed and Dan cannot help but feel that these attacks are a warning for somebody – until the first body is found. With Dan and trusty sidekick Oscar on the case, they are working against the clock as they try to catch a dangerous killer before another body is found. As the terror and jeopardy intensify on the streets of Florence, will Dan and Oscar manage to solve this case in time? Or has the murderer already got the next victim in their sights: Dan Armstrong?
T A Williams’ Armstrong and Oscar series is so much fun and Murder in Florence is the latest gripping page-turner full of nail-biting tension, beautifully evoked locations and nuanced characters who aren’t always what they seem. A first-rate cozy mystery that keeps readers guessing until the last page, T A Williams’ Murder in Florence is so addictive, putting it down is simply not an option.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 5, 2023
Title: Murder in Florence
Author: T.A. Williams
Series: Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mystery #3
Narrator: Simon Mattacks
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Pub Date: April 7, 2023
My Rating: 3.6 Rounded up
Pages: 267
Dan Armstrong is a fifty-six year old retired Brit Detective. He and his faithful black Labrador dog Oscar are living the good life in Tuscany, Italy. Dan is hoping to be a writer. He is divorced and has an adult daughter. His best friend in Italy is Inspector Virgilio Pisano.
In this story Florence is transformed into a giant movie set – the movie is primary filmed in the US but has a historical backstory which takes place in Florence,
Dan has moved to Tuscany and is now working as a private investigator in Florence.
The movie mentioned is about the Medic is and is being filmed in the city. Cast and crew all are wearing period costumes.
Dan is called in to help when attacks with arrows with a message have frightened the cast and crew. The fear is the Medici feud against the Pazzi family is not only being reenacted in the film but real life.
Dan has been hired to find who is scaring everyone with these arrows before someone is killed.
Readers are transported to the streets, palazzos and gardens as well as the beautiful Tuscan countryside. We also have a smile on our face as we visualize Dan wearing a period costume ~ the idea is so that he will blend in with the cast.
Another great T. A. Williams Dan Armstrong story and I am looking forward to Book 4 next in this series.
Author: T.A. Williams
Series: Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mystery #3
Narrator: Simon Mattacks
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Pub Date: April 7, 2023
My Rating: 3.6 Rounded up
Pages: 267
Dan Armstrong is a fifty-six year old retired Brit Detective. He and his faithful black Labrador dog Oscar are living the good life in Tuscany, Italy. Dan is hoping to be a writer. He is divorced and has an adult daughter. His best friend in Italy is Inspector Virgilio Pisano.
In this story Florence is transformed into a giant movie set – the movie is primary filmed in the US but has a historical backstory which takes place in Florence,
Dan has moved to Tuscany and is now working as a private investigator in Florence.
The movie mentioned is about the Medic is and is being filmed in the city. Cast and crew all are wearing period costumes.
Dan is called in to help when attacks with arrows with a message have frightened the cast and crew. The fear is the Medici feud against the Pazzi family is not only being reenacted in the film but real life.
Dan has been hired to find who is scaring everyone with these arrows before someone is killed.
Readers are transported to the streets, palazzos and gardens as well as the beautiful Tuscan countryside. We also have a smile on our face as we visualize Dan wearing a period costume ~ the idea is so that he will blend in with the cast.
Another great T. A. Williams Dan Armstrong story and I am looking forward to Book 4 next in this series.
April 12, 2023
‘Murder in Florence’ is just on the right side of cosy for me, cute, and fun but with a slice of darkness running through it! Plus, it is set in the gorgeous area of Tuscany and Florence, and there is also a dog along for the ride. What isn't there to love? This is the third book of the series but it can be read as a standalone but I do recommend reading the first two books as they were brilliant. This series is just getting stronger and stronger and I can't wait for the next outing.
Dan Armstrong has set up a detective agency in Florence but it isn't as exciting as he hoped for. He mainly trails people who are suspected of cheating. But when he is asked to investigate a spate of violent acts on a film set in Florence he jumps at the chance. The main star in the film Selena Gardner fears for her life and the whole cast and crew are on tenterhooks in case there is another attack. There are plenty of secrets and scandals on the film set but nothing that Dan can see that would cause this. That is until the first body is found. Dan has his work cut out to find the killer before they strike again.
I flew through this as soon as it arrived as I adore this series! It is a tightly plotted novel and doesn't over-explain what is happening to the reader as the author assumes we have a bit of intelligence. It's full of twists and turn and I was honestly kept guessing until the very end. There was a great cast of characters on the film set and I enjoyed how all their stories intertwined with the secrets and scandals! Dan and Oscar were great as usual and I can't wait to see what adventure is coming next!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
Dan Armstrong has set up a detective agency in Florence but it isn't as exciting as he hoped for. He mainly trails people who are suspected of cheating. But when he is asked to investigate a spate of violent acts on a film set in Florence he jumps at the chance. The main star in the film Selena Gardner fears for her life and the whole cast and crew are on tenterhooks in case there is another attack. There are plenty of secrets and scandals on the film set but nothing that Dan can see that would cause this. That is until the first body is found. Dan has his work cut out to find the killer before they strike again.
I flew through this as soon as it arrived as I adore this series! It is a tightly plotted novel and doesn't over-explain what is happening to the reader as the author assumes we have a bit of intelligence. It's full of twists and turn and I was honestly kept guessing until the very end. There was a great cast of characters on the film set and I enjoyed how all their stories intertwined with the secrets and scandals! Dan and Oscar were great as usual and I can't wait to see what adventure is coming next!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
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