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An Italian Kitchen Mystery #2
The Wedding Soup Murder
National bestselling author Rosie Genova reprises her tasty Italian Kitchen Mysteries for a new audience!New Jersey Monthly calls The Wedding Soup Murder “a tightly-plotted whodunit”A wedding with all the trimmings—and death as an unexpected guest…Victoria Rienzi came home to the Jersey shore to research a new book and perfect her cooking skills at her family’s seaside restaurant, the Casa Lido. But when Vic’s exacting nonna puts her in charge of catering the soup course for a wedding at the exclusive Belmont Country Club, it’s not long before trouble is simmering in the kitchen. Three temperamental chefs are butting heads, their sous chefs are throwing punches, and the formidable club president, Elizabeth Merriman, antagonizes everyone around her.Elizabeth, aka “The Iron Lady,” has made her share of enemies, including the father of the bride, who was caught embezzling from the country club. She threatens to fire the famous pastry chef in charge of the wedding cake, who doesn’t bother to hide her hatred of Elizabeth. And who is the mystery man in dark glasses, who never leaves the older woman’s side?Though the wedding goes off without a hitch, by the time the happy couple and their guests depart, Elizabeth Merriman is missing. When her body is found on the beach the next morning, it appears that the country club president slipped from the top of the seawall, but Vic isn’t convinced. Did The Iron Lady finally push someone too far? And did that someone push her back--into the arms of death?[This is a new edition of a book previously published by Penguin Random House under the same title. Its contents have been slightly updated, but the story, setting, and characters remain the same.]Editorial “A tightly plotted whodunit that will have readers guessing right to the end, the book blends mystery with comedy, romance, family drama, a vivid and affectionate portrayal of the Jersey shore and … oh yes, cooking.” -Helen Beglin, New Jersey Monthly“The Wedding Soup Murder is the second in Rosie Genova’s delightful Italian Kitchen Mystery series. I love the characters and the atmosphere, and the plot has more twists in it than a bowl of rotini. Yummy fun!” -Susan Santangelo, Suspense Magazine“The characters continue to grow. The friendship between Vic and Sofia is spot on. Interfering but loving family, again, right on the money… a great read.” -Sandra Murphy, Kings River Life Magazine“I have fallen hard for the whole Rienzi family.… The way Genova weaves the mystery into the Rienzi family subplots… is seamless. Having a mystery writer as the protagonist just blends everything together deliciously, like a masterful piece of Italian lasagna, with plenty of layers. This breathes life into the characters and makes them jump off the pages.”-Lori Caswell, Escape with Dollycas“I absolutely love this series and I have fallen in love with Vic and her big Italian family. The Wedding Soup Murder is a fun, fast-paced mystery and I loved every minute of it.” -Books-N-Kisses“I'm happy to be back on the boardwalk. In addition to a solid mystery, Rosie Genova has given us another fun look into the Rienzi family.
275 pages, ebook
First published September 2, 2014
72 people are currently reading
995 people want to read
About the author
Rosie Genova
10 books352 followersProud Jersey girl Rosie Genova is a multi-genre author. Her work includes a Jersey shore cozy series, The Italian Kitchen Mysteries, and the upcoming Tess Mancini Time Travel Mysteries, set in 1955 Atlantic City. She is also the author of standalone suspense and a couple of rom-coms that presently live in her computer files (but are longing to be released into the wild). A former teacher and journalist, Rosie’s non-fiction has appeared in Entrepreneur magazine and The New York Times. The mother of three sons, Rosie still lives in her favorite state with her husband, too many dusty antiques, and a charming mutt named Lucy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
February 22, 2017
A great mystery with so much going on in it … and a big bunch of red herrings. I suspected who the murderer was early on but so I also suspected it to be bunch of characters that weren't necessarily innocent but surely didn't kill the victim. :) With other words I didn't have a clue!
Once again I loved the Italian theme and will have to try the recipes that were included in the book.
I will definitely read the next one in the series.
Once again I loved the Italian theme and will have to try the recipes that were included in the book.
I will definitely read the next one in the series.
September 2, 2014
I received this book free from the author. This is my honest review.
Jersey girl, Victoria Rienzi, writes popular mysteries, but recently she's been staring in her own murder mysteries. Her nonna is supposedly showing her how to run and cook great Italian dishes in their, Casa Lido Restaurant, but so far she's doing more table setting and food prep than cooking.
In book two of the Italian Family Mysteries, Vic is making thousands of tiny meatballs and precisely icing little cookies for the fancy wedding of her dentist's daughter, in the exclusive Belmont Country Club. The soup is a hit with the guests, but the elderly rich "Iron Lady" club president is found dead by the ocean seawall. Dr. Chickie was seen with her late last night and the old lady was going to turn him in for embezzling club funds. Vic's parents are sure he's innocent and sets Vic out to prove it.
I love the characters in this book. Many chefs and their prima doña personalities make this story so realistic. The flavor and character of the Jersey Shore is evident on every page, and the food descriptions rumble my tummy, with scrumptious recipes included in the book. Vic's family is a treat, with her policeman brother and his detecting wife who is also Vic's best friend. And definitely don't forget Vic's nonna who rules her kitchen and her loving family. With so many possible suspects, the mystery becomes a tasty soup to be savored until the last word. I am loving this series and it is becoming one of my favorite cozy reads!!
Jersey girl, Victoria Rienzi, writes popular mysteries, but recently she's been staring in her own murder mysteries. Her nonna is supposedly showing her how to run and cook great Italian dishes in their, Casa Lido Restaurant, but so far she's doing more table setting and food prep than cooking.
In book two of the Italian Family Mysteries, Vic is making thousands of tiny meatballs and precisely icing little cookies for the fancy wedding of her dentist's daughter, in the exclusive Belmont Country Club. The soup is a hit with the guests, but the elderly rich "Iron Lady" club president is found dead by the ocean seawall. Dr. Chickie was seen with her late last night and the old lady was going to turn him in for embezzling club funds. Vic's parents are sure he's innocent and sets Vic out to prove it.
I love the characters in this book. Many chefs and their prima doña personalities make this story so realistic. The flavor and character of the Jersey Shore is evident on every page, and the food descriptions rumble my tummy, with scrumptious recipes included in the book. Vic's family is a treat, with her policeman brother and his detecting wife who is also Vic's best friend. And definitely don't forget Vic's nonna who rules her kitchen and her loving family. With so many possible suspects, the mystery becomes a tasty soup to be savored until the last word. I am loving this series and it is becoming one of my favorite cozy reads!!
July 10, 2014
I received this pre-publication copy as a gift from the author. Not in exchange for a review, but just because she is so darn NICE. And I can honestly say it in no way affected my opinion of the book or this review. I give it 5 stars. Just loved it. If you haven't read Rosie's debut book "Murder and Marinara", you need to. And then in September, when this book goes on sale, read it. It's a really funny and interesting cozy murder mystery. The Wedding Soup Murder brings us back to Casa Lido at the good old Jersey Shore, home of Victoria Rienzi, Tim, Nonna, the whole "famiglia." Vic is actually a mystery writer herself (clever, huh?) and finds herself back in yet another murder. Vic is a funny gal, I love the self deprecating way she talks (and thinks). I'd like to be her friend! (Who wouldn't want to be friends with a woman who grabs the bottle of booze when she tries to hide from a possible intruder?) The mystery was intriguing, the characters really well developed. There's lots of food, romance, and family issues. It made me homesick for the little Mom and Pop restaurants with the red and white checked tablecloths, the salty sea air and the boardwalk with all its fried delicious foods. Rosie has a way of bringing me home with her books. And I can't wait to try the recipe for the ricotta cookies. Yes, there are recipes. Sigh. All of my favorite things rolled into one neat book.
January 16, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Another winner from this author. I was spoiled by being to read both books in this series back to back.
I have fallen hard for the whole Rienzi family. They are all back. The romantic triangle/tension continues to evolve between Vic, her old boyfriend Tim and carpenter Cal. Nonna is still keeping her family in check and strongly guiding them to her way of thinking. All the characters are growing as we get to know them better.
In this installment we meet the chefs at the Belmont Country Club and let’s just say I would rather spend time with chef Gordon Ramsey:) These chefs are extremely temperamental and are not happy having outsiders in their kitchen. When the Club President is found dead there are plenty of suspects including the chefs and the father of the bride.
I was very impressed with the way Genova weaves the mystery into the Rienzi family subplots. It is seamless. Having a mystery writer as the protagonist just blends everything together deliciously, like a masterful piece of Italian lasagna, with plenty of layers. This breathes life into the characters and makes the jump off the pages.
As with the first story the descriptions and talk of the food made me so hungry. Again I appreciate the recipes included in the back of the book.
The only part I don;t like it that now I have to wait for a whole year to visit this wonderful Italian family. Ciao Rienzi Family! I can’t wait until we meet again!!
August 1, 2014
Well written thematic mystery novel! The author does a great job developing characters. Suspense is held through out, and I was unable to figure out the ending in advance. Makes me want to read her first book, "Murder and Marinara." A fun read.
I received an advance reading copy in a Goodreads giveaway.
I received an advance reading copy in a Goodreads giveaway.
March 27, 2021
Great cozy mystery with some yummy recipes and well written plot development. One for Team Cal, I trust Nonna's instincts.
July 23, 2014
My favorite thing about the Italian Kitchen Mysteries is Vic, the sleuth. She’s a hoot. As the book opens, poor Vic is crushed under her ornery Nonna’s heel, slaving away while her hunky ex-boyfriend flirts with someone else. You just have to keep turning the pages even before the dead body shows up. If only to know whether Vic will actually get to eat one of the 1000 meatballs she just formed for the wedding soup.
It’s fun to read a narrative by someone who is always looking for the next tasty morsel. “I started to gather my things, but glanced longingly at my uneaten fruit. It would be tacky to stuff my face while my orthodontist’s life was falling apart.”
The light, snarky tone is fun! Regarding Vic's 34 year old spinster status: “Hey, it was good enough for Jane Austen.”
And who can resist a sleuth who bakes ricotta cookies while she’s working out the details of the murder in her head?
But, wait… was I supposed to review the mystery for its mysteries? That's there, too. And you won't see it coming.
The family is my favorite part. Although I’m not sure Vic’s love life is going in the direction I’d choose for her. She’d better come to her senses before book #3 is through.
It’s fun to read a narrative by someone who is always looking for the next tasty morsel. “I started to gather my things, but glanced longingly at my uneaten fruit. It would be tacky to stuff my face while my orthodontist’s life was falling apart.”
The light, snarky tone is fun! Regarding Vic's 34 year old spinster status: “Hey, it was good enough for Jane Austen.”
And who can resist a sleuth who bakes ricotta cookies while she’s working out the details of the murder in her head?
But, wait… was I supposed to review the mystery for its mysteries? That's there, too. And you won't see it coming.
The family is my favorite part. Although I’m not sure Vic’s love life is going in the direction I’d choose for her. She’d better come to her senses before book #3 is through.
November 4, 2014
I really enjoyed this book as much as the first. Love the characters and the setting of this book. I like how these books are written. Cannot wait for the next installment to come out.
February 4, 2018
Vic has ended up in the thick of it again, the family restaurant is providing some traditional Italian dishes for the wedding of a friend's daughter, when she and Tim arrive at the country club they are not really welcomed and that sets the scene for the rest of the night with the chefs sniping, the pastry chef not being happy at not providing everything and the club President trying to micromanage everyone!
Later that evening Vic overhears the club president and the bride's father having a spat and then the next day one of them is dead. Who killed them and why? Against pretty much everyone's ideas (apart from her SIL) Vic starts digging to find out what happened.
Later that evening Vic overhears the club president and the bride's father having a spat and then the next day one of them is dead. Who killed them and why? Against pretty much everyone's ideas (apart from her SIL) Vic starts digging to find out what happened.
August 29, 2014
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
by Kim
The Wedding Soup Murder by Rosie Genova was just what I needed to put me in a relaxing mood to read. This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone. I didn’t read the first book in the series, Murder and Marinara and I had no problem getting into The Wedding Soup Murder or understanding the dynamics of the characters. The last couple of cozies I've read have had characters who irritated me with their actions, but the actions of Victoria 'Vic' just seemed genuine and natural.
Victoria ‘Vic’ Rienzi has moved back to her hometown of Oceanside Park, New Jersey for the summer. She writes mystery books under the pen name Vick Reed. But she wants to write a non-mystery book and learn how to cook. She spends most of her time at her family's Italian restaurant as a prep cook and waitress. Why she never learned to cook is a little bit of a mystery to me. But that’s besides the point.
Vic is tasked with preparing the soup course for the wedding reception of a family friend's daughter. While at the reception, chatting with Dr. Charles ‘Chickie’ Natale (the family friend) and his wife, they are interrupted by Elizabeth Merriam. Elizabeth is the President and Events Manager of the Belmont Beach Country Club. During this interruption, Vic learns something about the man that comes as a complete shock to her.
The next day, news spreads about the death of Elizabeth. This puts a bigger light on Dr. Chickie. Apparently in the previous book, Vic helped to solve the murder case. Now, with Elizabeth’s death and suspicion on Dr. Chickie, her father wants Vic to prove that their friend is innocent of murder. “You’re a regular Jessica Fletcher. Murder follows you wherever you go.” Against the wishes of her mother, grandmother, and Detective brother, Vic and her sister-in-law set out on an investigation.
I loved this case of whodunit tremendously. Just when you think you knew what happened and why, think again. The characters are all likeable. There's a romance element that involves a love triangle between Vic, her former boyfriend, Tim and a new carpenter in town, Cal. I can’t wait to see what happens there. And of course, there are wonderful Italian food recipes.
The Wedding Soup Murder gave me everything I could wish for in a cozy mystery and more. My one complaint is that I have to wait a whole year to find out what else Vic and her family get into.
Source: Publisher
by Kim
The Wedding Soup Murder by Rosie Genova was just what I needed to put me in a relaxing mood to read. This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone. I didn’t read the first book in the series, Murder and Marinara and I had no problem getting into The Wedding Soup Murder or understanding the dynamics of the characters. The last couple of cozies I've read have had characters who irritated me with their actions, but the actions of Victoria 'Vic' just seemed genuine and natural.
Victoria ‘Vic’ Rienzi has moved back to her hometown of Oceanside Park, New Jersey for the summer. She writes mystery books under the pen name Vick Reed. But she wants to write a non-mystery book and learn how to cook. She spends most of her time at her family's Italian restaurant as a prep cook and waitress. Why she never learned to cook is a little bit of a mystery to me. But that’s besides the point.
Vic is tasked with preparing the soup course for the wedding reception of a family friend's daughter. While at the reception, chatting with Dr. Charles ‘Chickie’ Natale (the family friend) and his wife, they are interrupted by Elizabeth Merriam. Elizabeth is the President and Events Manager of the Belmont Beach Country Club. During this interruption, Vic learns something about the man that comes as a complete shock to her.
The next day, news spreads about the death of Elizabeth. This puts a bigger light on Dr. Chickie. Apparently in the previous book, Vic helped to solve the murder case. Now, with Elizabeth’s death and suspicion on Dr. Chickie, her father wants Vic to prove that their friend is innocent of murder. “You’re a regular Jessica Fletcher. Murder follows you wherever you go.” Against the wishes of her mother, grandmother, and Detective brother, Vic and her sister-in-law set out on an investigation.
I loved this case of whodunit tremendously. Just when you think you knew what happened and why, think again. The characters are all likeable. There's a romance element that involves a love triangle between Vic, her former boyfriend, Tim and a new carpenter in town, Cal. I can’t wait to see what happens there. And of course, there are wonderful Italian food recipes.
The Wedding Soup Murder gave me everything I could wish for in a cozy mystery and more. My one complaint is that I have to wait a whole year to find out what else Vic and her family get into.
Source: Publisher
September 5, 2014
Mystery writer, Vic is back at home on the Jersey Shore and WORKING in her Nonna's Italian Restaurant, Casa Lido and she wants to learn the business, she's also trying to learn the business along side her ex-lover, Tim who also works in the kitchen.With permission from her grandmother, she gets to prepare the meatballs for the family Italian wedding soup, that any Italian would savor, Vic and Tim are to cater for a wedding reception at the Belmont Beach Country Club.
Once at the country club Vic gets more than she bargained for when she has to deal with the demanding bride, and some arrogant chefs in the kitchen. The President of the Belmont Country Club, Elizabeth is then found dead on the beach and Vic soon discovers that, there was more to President Elizabeth than met the eye with a growing list of suspects, and with Vic and Casa Lido soon mixed up in Elizabeth's murder. Vic along with her mystery writer's know how and a pad and pen with her fiesty sister-in-law, Sofia try to put their sleuthing skills TO WORK to find Elizabeth's killer.
This mystery is reminiscent of Murder She Wrote, with Vic being a mystery writer solving murders, finding killers and that is what I loved about The Wedding Soup murder. Being a fan of Murder She Wrote I know I will love this series, With her trusty pad and pen, and her spunky sister-in-law Sofia, they were a match that can't be beat, great characters that make you want to keep reading, they have a chemistry. The Wedding Soup Murder had me hungry for more and I can't wait to read and review the next in the series.
July 29, 2014
I won this book and was totally charmed by it! Ms. Genova has gotten not just the Italian Family down, but, she comes through loud and clear on the Italians in the family business.
Nonna, with a fist of iron and heart of gold, runs the restaurant. Granddaughter Victoria is a well known mystery writer who has come home to learn the family business and research her family history for a new book.
Then we have old and new loves, but, the book is actually focused on the mystery of who killed the old battleaxe during a catered wedding...I liked that it didn't go off into romance land and forget the mystery part.
It was well written and pleasant to read. I am planning to buy the the first book to this series soon.
But, nothing is perfect and I did find it a bit tedious that Victoria kept going over and over her list of suspects and motives...I don't do well with redundancy. However, Ms. Genova did show her stuff with her ending.
Nonna, with a fist of iron and heart of gold, runs the restaurant. Granddaughter Victoria is a well known mystery writer who has come home to learn the family business and research her family history for a new book.
Then we have old and new loves, but, the book is actually focused on the mystery of who killed the old battleaxe during a catered wedding...I liked that it didn't go off into romance land and forget the mystery part.
It was well written and pleasant to read. I am planning to buy the the first book to this series soon.
But, nothing is perfect and I did find it a bit tedious that Victoria kept going over and over her list of suspects and motives...I don't do well with redundancy. However, Ms. Genova did show her stuff with her ending.
August 16, 2014
A meticulously crafted mystery with tasty secondary notes of family drama and even a love triangle. The Wedding Soup Murder is the second installment in Rosie Genova's Italian Kitchen Mystery series. At book's end, I delighted in knowing she'd expertly tricked me once again, and I was better for having been tricked. Like any good meal, you'll want to savor every morsel, but you won't be able to pace yourself. I'm ready, and eager, for a third course!
July 30, 2014
Delightful and intriguing! A great Italian family and a great mystery! I want to make wedding soup and I want to attend this wedding reception. Forget that I want them to cater my wedding! The mystery takes you to the final course while the twist and turns are clever and original. This is a two thumbs up and I don't give those lightly. Read away!
February 6, 2018
The Past Will Always Catch Up To You
When Victoria Rietzi returns to Oceanside, New Jersey from New York to work at her family's restaurant Casa Lido and write her historical novel things rapidly go down hill. While she is sent to the Belmont County Club to work on the requested Italian wedding soup and the famous wedding cookies for the bride she overhears a disturbing argument between Dr. Natale, the bride's father and Elizabeth Merriman, the manager of the country club. When Elizabeth turns up dead the next morning, Dr. Natale is prime suspect so Victoria and her sister in law, Sofia also known as SIL begin to investigate. And uncover old secrets.
I enjoyed this book. The characters are well written and the story line has a good flow. It was a surprise ending and even though I figured out part of it, I wasn't quite right.
The recipes do look good and are actually in the book.
When Victoria Rietzi returns to Oceanside, New Jersey from New York to work at her family's restaurant Casa Lido and write her historical novel things rapidly go down hill. While she is sent to the Belmont County Club to work on the requested Italian wedding soup and the famous wedding cookies for the bride she overhears a disturbing argument between Dr. Natale, the bride's father and Elizabeth Merriman, the manager of the country club. When Elizabeth turns up dead the next morning, Dr. Natale is prime suspect so Victoria and her sister in law, Sofia also known as SIL begin to investigate. And uncover old secrets.
I enjoyed this book. The characters are well written and the story line has a good flow. It was a surprise ending and even though I figured out part of it, I wasn't quite right.
The recipes do look good and are actually in the book.
September 8, 2014
The Wedding Soup Murder is the second book in Rosie Genova's Italian Kitchen mystery series, featuring a sassy, Jersey Shore heroine, a captivating Italian-American family and more bodies than they know what to do with. Genova's books are filled with tasty Italian treats and plenty of family drama to balance out each whodunit. Readers who are looking for a mystery that will tantalize the palette, as well as, energize the mind, will love this one!
What I liked:
Victoria has returned home to the Jersey Shore to write a new book. But she isn't looking to write the next great mystery. She wants to learn to cook. And be a part of the family business for a little while as she looks for inspiration, but what she finds is a whole lot of sleuthing going on. I love Genova's heroine for this series. Vic is spontaneous and over the top. She has sass and spunk and all those things every young Italian woman should possess. Her interactions with her family, especially her nonna are fun and full of surprises. Her former ex working right along side her also gives another dimension to the story. Genova has created a great heroine that readers will want more and more of.
When Vic and family are set to cater a wedding reception at the local country club, the fun begins. I loved the behind the scenes tidbits about catering and actually making Italian Wedding Soup, now I want to go to an authentic Italian restaurant and try it. When a story makes you want to go beyond the book, you know it was a good one! I had a great time being a fly on the wall with all of the chef personalities and eccentricities flying. It made for a great atmosphere for a mystery. Lots of great suspects including a friend of Vic's family, Dr. Chickie. It was up to Vic to prove him innocent.
Genova does a great job of balancing the mystery against the family dynamic of this great Italian-American family. I found myself not only trying to solve the mystery that was currently going on, but wanting to figure out a way to get Vic back together with her ex and even solving the problems between her brother Danny and his wife, who happens to be Vic's partner in crime, so to speak. This book is as much about family, as it is about murder and that made all the difference. Genova is definitely on the right track with this series.
Bottom Line:
This mystery had all the right elements to make it great. The mystery of what happened to the country club president, was well thought out. It had plenty of suspects and the clues, while easy to follow, did not make the killer obvious. The Rienzi family was a pleasure to read about. Getting to know them was just as fun figuring out the whodunit. Great balance, a fantastic heroine and one over the top Italian family. Great addition to the series.
What I liked:
Victoria has returned home to the Jersey Shore to write a new book. But she isn't looking to write the next great mystery. She wants to learn to cook. And be a part of the family business for a little while as she looks for inspiration, but what she finds is a whole lot of sleuthing going on. I love Genova's heroine for this series. Vic is spontaneous and over the top. She has sass and spunk and all those things every young Italian woman should possess. Her interactions with her family, especially her nonna are fun and full of surprises. Her former ex working right along side her also gives another dimension to the story. Genova has created a great heroine that readers will want more and more of.
When Vic and family are set to cater a wedding reception at the local country club, the fun begins. I loved the behind the scenes tidbits about catering and actually making Italian Wedding Soup, now I want to go to an authentic Italian restaurant and try it. When a story makes you want to go beyond the book, you know it was a good one! I had a great time being a fly on the wall with all of the chef personalities and eccentricities flying. It made for a great atmosphere for a mystery. Lots of great suspects including a friend of Vic's family, Dr. Chickie. It was up to Vic to prove him innocent.
Genova does a great job of balancing the mystery against the family dynamic of this great Italian-American family. I found myself not only trying to solve the mystery that was currently going on, but wanting to figure out a way to get Vic back together with her ex and even solving the problems between her brother Danny and his wife, who happens to be Vic's partner in crime, so to speak. This book is as much about family, as it is about murder and that made all the difference. Genova is definitely on the right track with this series.
Bottom Line:
This mystery had all the right elements to make it great. The mystery of what happened to the country club president, was well thought out. It had plenty of suspects and the clues, while easy to follow, did not make the killer obvious. The Rienzi family was a pleasure to read about. Getting to know them was just as fun figuring out the whodunit. Great balance, a fantastic heroine and one over the top Italian family. Great addition to the series.
August 8, 2014
Victoria, the Italian-American protagonist of this cozy-murder-mystery series, is back home with her family in New Jersey. She's been put to work in the family restaurant, next to her ex-lover, and under the stern eye of her Nonna, her Italian-immigrant grandmother. This is the second book in the Italian Kitchen Mystery Series.
The series looks set to continue, and that is no surprise. The books are well-written and well-edited, and hit all the right notes for the genre. We have a murder mystery lightened by some humor and a bit of romance. The setting is refreshing, and Victoria's Italian-American family is fun to spend some time with.
The family's restaurant is centrally located in a beach community, a community peppered with Italian-Americans and Italian food. We are expertly introduced to the various characters who will later make up the murder victim and suspects. The country-club setting and the busy kitchen provide many unique characters, and plenty of moments for fun. All the characters ring true.
Our protagonist narrates the story, with hindsight, tempting us with nuggets of information, forewarning us of events to come. She has a dry humor, and is not adverse to laughing at herself. Victoria has a writer's curiosity about people and events, which gets her into trouble, of course.
These books are not heavy literature. They are light, fun reads, cute-cozies, but with a few tear-tugging parts here and there. I think the books might be most enjoyable for those who live in the area where the books are set, or who have family members who have something in common with Victoria's family.
As an extra bonus, the author includes three recipes of dishes mentioned in the book: Wedding Soup, Beef Ragu, and Ricotta Cookies.
Please read my full and illustrated review at Italophile Book Reviews.
http://italophilebookreviews.blogspot...
The series looks set to continue, and that is no surprise. The books are well-written and well-edited, and hit all the right notes for the genre. We have a murder mystery lightened by some humor and a bit of romance. The setting is refreshing, and Victoria's Italian-American family is fun to spend some time with.
The family's restaurant is centrally located in a beach community, a community peppered with Italian-Americans and Italian food. We are expertly introduced to the various characters who will later make up the murder victim and suspects. The country-club setting and the busy kitchen provide many unique characters, and plenty of moments for fun. All the characters ring true.
Our protagonist narrates the story, with hindsight, tempting us with nuggets of information, forewarning us of events to come. She has a dry humor, and is not adverse to laughing at herself. Victoria has a writer's curiosity about people and events, which gets her into trouble, of course.
These books are not heavy literature. They are light, fun reads, cute-cozies, but with a few tear-tugging parts here and there. I think the books might be most enjoyable for those who live in the area where the books are set, or who have family members who have something in common with Victoria's family.
As an extra bonus, the author includes three recipes of dishes mentioned in the book: Wedding Soup, Beef Ragu, and Ricotta Cookies.
Please read my full and illustrated review at Italophile Book Reviews.
http://italophilebookreviews.blogspot...
April 7, 2019
What a terrific follow-up to the wonderful first book in this series! The descriptions made me ravenous; good thing there are recipes in the back!
Nonna reminds me of every Italian woman in my family; say nothing about things that might be important, and definitely be mean to anyone in the family that has been perceived as being 'disappointing'. Victoria's Nonna treats her just like I get treated, and that was irksome AND amusing.
I'm a little miffed at the kind-of love triangle. Tim is Vic's past; he should stay there. Cal, as mysterious as he is, could be her future, and if so, I'm all for it.
Definitely recommend this series to any foodie and cozy mystery lover!
Nonna reminds me of every Italian woman in my family; say nothing about things that might be important, and definitely be mean to anyone in the family that has been perceived as being 'disappointing'. Victoria's Nonna treats her just like I get treated, and that was irksome AND amusing.
I'm a little miffed at the kind-of love triangle. Tim is Vic's past; he should stay there. Cal, as mysterious as he is, could be her future, and if so, I'm all for it.
Definitely recommend this series to any foodie and cozy mystery lover!
September 13, 2014
The Wedding Soup Murder is a perfect after-supper read. Of course, the scene-stealers are spunky Nonna and cool Sofia, the best-friend-slash- sister-in-law, a dance instructor with a knack for police work! I am also a fan of the protag’s love interests, who are as appealing (and charmingly old-school in ways) as the Rienzi family restaurant itself.
But through it all, I come back to this very real family. Sure, it is built on stereotyped characters, but they have enough pathos to be convincing. There’s the rat-pack-cool Jersey dad with too much fondness for "the cards" as my family would say, a mom with a devotion to protecting her children (which sometimes means scolding them with a brightly polished fingernail wagging), and a truly tight-knit community of friends and coworkers who all seem like family. Sprinkle in the arrogant chefs/ (culinary artistes, perhaps) and a sassy bartender, there are plenty of characters to entertain and to relate to. Ultimately, the characters feel like people you have met—especially if you’re a local.
My favorite thing is that this series feels like a compromise between saccharine commercial lit (which is fun in its own right) and literary art; it elevates the genre. I will definitely be picking up the third book next year, if only to be stumped (again) by the twist ending.
(Disclosure: I received a copy as a gift from the author; this is my honest review.
But through it all, I come back to this very real family. Sure, it is built on stereotyped characters, but they have enough pathos to be convincing. There’s the rat-pack-cool Jersey dad with too much fondness for "the cards" as my family would say, a mom with a devotion to protecting her children (which sometimes means scolding them with a brightly polished fingernail wagging), and a truly tight-knit community of friends and coworkers who all seem like family. Sprinkle in the arrogant chefs/ (culinary artistes, perhaps) and a sassy bartender, there are plenty of characters to entertain and to relate to. Ultimately, the characters feel like people you have met—especially if you’re a local.
My favorite thing is that this series feels like a compromise between saccharine commercial lit (which is fun in its own right) and literary art; it elevates the genre. I will definitely be picking up the third book next year, if only to be stumped (again) by the twist ending.
(Disclosure: I received a copy as a gift from the author; this is my honest review.
August 15, 2015
SUMMARY: Victoria Rienzi came home to the Jersey Shore to write a new book, learn the family restaurant business, and practice the fine art of Italian cooking. But when delicious dishes are paired with murder, Vic has a little too much on her plate…
When Vic asked her nonna for more responsibility in the kitchen, she didn’t mean forming a thousand tiny meatballs by hand for the family’s famous wedding soup. The dish is to be served at the reception for a close family friend at the exclusive Belmont Country Club. And once there Vic has to deal with a demanding bridezilla and clashes in the kitchen—between the staff and servers, between two egocentric head chefs, and between the country club president and…well…everyone.
The wedding comes off without a hitch—until the body of the club’s president is found on the beach below a high seawall. Now Vic will need to use her noodle to find out who pushed whom too far…before she’s the one who lands in the soup!
REVIEW: This is book 2 in the Italian Kitchen Mystery Series. It is fine as a stand-alone, but I do plan to go back and read the first in the series. A very good cozy mystery full of twists, turns, and possible suspects. The bantering and love between all the Italian relatives is delightful. Full of humor, suspense and with a toss of romance, it keeps your attention from start to finish. Capped off with some of the Italian recipes mentioned at the Casa Lido, it definitely qualifies as a delectable mystery.
When Vic asked her nonna for more responsibility in the kitchen, she didn’t mean forming a thousand tiny meatballs by hand for the family’s famous wedding soup. The dish is to be served at the reception for a close family friend at the exclusive Belmont Country Club. And once there Vic has to deal with a demanding bridezilla and clashes in the kitchen—between the staff and servers, between two egocentric head chefs, and between the country club president and…well…everyone.
The wedding comes off without a hitch—until the body of the club’s president is found on the beach below a high seawall. Now Vic will need to use her noodle to find out who pushed whom too far…before she’s the one who lands in the soup!
REVIEW: This is book 2 in the Italian Kitchen Mystery Series. It is fine as a stand-alone, but I do plan to go back and read the first in the series. A very good cozy mystery full of twists, turns, and possible suspects. The bantering and love between all the Italian relatives is delightful. Full of humor, suspense and with a toss of romance, it keeps your attention from start to finish. Capped off with some of the Italian recipes mentioned at the Casa Lido, it definitely qualifies as a delectable mystery.
September 25, 2016
This novel is the second in a good series that is quickly becoming great!
We have murder mystery writer Victoria Rienzi (Vic) who has returned to her family's restaurant and home life in order to write a novel based upon their lives in New Jersey (Shore.) As we found out in Volume one, It isn't so easy to stay away from a murder just because you have decided not to write one!
The loving and strict family owns a popular Italian restaurant that has been asked to cater "The Wedding Soup and Italian cookies" for two hundred guests at the exclusive 'Belmont' hotel. The kitchen staff and Event Manager does not welcome Vic and her contingent. Vic isn't allowed to cook but she goes into the wedding reception to greet the Bride's parents (who requested the foods.) The Reception is wonderful except for the Event Mgr. who stalks over to threaten the Bride's Father and kick Vic back to the kitchen area.
The next morning the news of Elizabeth (the Manager's) death hits the papers! Equally disturbing, Vic learns that the Police may be looking at their friend as the killer!
Vic and her SIL are back on the hunt for the real killer. Ah, you say as you read this...predictable. Not so. This books is filled with unexpected backgrounds, twists, and turns. You will run the gamut of emotions from laughing, sadness, happy, and justice. It is more like a mini-opera .
I will be reading the next volume. Hope you will join me. Oh, by the way...good recipes at the ending.
We have murder mystery writer Victoria Rienzi (Vic) who has returned to her family's restaurant and home life in order to write a novel based upon their lives in New Jersey (Shore.) As we found out in Volume one, It isn't so easy to stay away from a murder just because you have decided not to write one!
The loving and strict family owns a popular Italian restaurant that has been asked to cater "The Wedding Soup and Italian cookies" for two hundred guests at the exclusive 'Belmont' hotel. The kitchen staff and Event Manager does not welcome Vic and her contingent. Vic isn't allowed to cook but she goes into the wedding reception to greet the Bride's parents (who requested the foods.) The Reception is wonderful except for the Event Mgr. who stalks over to threaten the Bride's Father and kick Vic back to the kitchen area.
The next morning the news of Elizabeth (the Manager's) death hits the papers! Equally disturbing, Vic learns that the Police may be looking at their friend as the killer!
Vic and her SIL are back on the hunt for the real killer. Ah, you say as you read this...predictable. Not so. This books is filled with unexpected backgrounds, twists, and turns. You will run the gamut of emotions from laughing, sadness, happy, and justice. It is more like a mini-opera .
I will be reading the next volume. Hope you will join me. Oh, by the way...good recipes at the ending.
September 5, 2014
The Wedding Soup Murder by Rosie Genova
The Second Italian Kitchen Mystery
Victoria Rienzi is still on the Jersey Shore learning the family's restaurant business as research for her new book. Unfortunately, Vic's research feels more like punishment as her Nonna has her forming a thousand tiny meatballs, or polpetti, for the Italian Wedding Soup the restaurant is making for a special wedding. In addition, she has to go on site to help prepare the soup and special cookies for the reception with her ex boyfriend, Tim, the sous chef. Add some volatile chefs and staff at the fancy country club and we have a recipe for murder!
This second book in the Italian Kitchen Mystery series explores secrets. Multiple secrets are revealed to us as the book progresses; some good, some a possible reason for murder. Does what lies in the past determine what happens now? Do secrets, whether long hidden or recent, make things better or worse?
I'm happy to be back on the boardwalk. In addition to a solid mystery, Rosie Genova has given us another fun look into the Rienzi family and their relationships with each other as well as their restaurant, the Casa Lido. I'm curious as to what will develop between Vic and Cal, as well as between Vic and Tim. And I love seeing penance as 100,000 polpetti!
Italian Recipes included.
The Second Italian Kitchen Mystery
Victoria Rienzi is still on the Jersey Shore learning the family's restaurant business as research for her new book. Unfortunately, Vic's research feels more like punishment as her Nonna has her forming a thousand tiny meatballs, or polpetti, for the Italian Wedding Soup the restaurant is making for a special wedding. In addition, she has to go on site to help prepare the soup and special cookies for the reception with her ex boyfriend, Tim, the sous chef. Add some volatile chefs and staff at the fancy country club and we have a recipe for murder!
This second book in the Italian Kitchen Mystery series explores secrets. Multiple secrets are revealed to us as the book progresses; some good, some a possible reason for murder. Does what lies in the past determine what happens now? Do secrets, whether long hidden or recent, make things better or worse?
I'm happy to be back on the boardwalk. In addition to a solid mystery, Rosie Genova has given us another fun look into the Rienzi family and their relationships with each other as well as their restaurant, the Casa Lido. I'm curious as to what will develop between Vic and Cal, as well as between Vic and Tim. And I love seeing penance as 100,000 polpetti!
Italian Recipes included.
December 19, 2015
Victoria Rienzi, successful mystery writer, came home to the Jersey Shore a few months ago to write a book about her family history and learn more about her family's restaurant. Her grandmother gives her the task of putting together the old family recipe of wedding soup at a catered wedding reception. Victoria meets the cantankerous president of the country club, Elizabeth Merriman, and overhears several conversations leading her to believe people really don't like the old lady. Well, the old lady is killed that night after the reception. Victoria's parents ask her to help the family friend who seemed to be stealing from the country club and is assumed to be the killer. Victoria has a number of suspects and one of her main leads involves a man who may be the long lost son that Merriman gave up 60 years ago. Although, another one of her suspects is not who she seems.
This book is the second in the series and I liked it just as I did the first one. I'm looking forward to the third book which came out a couple months ago. I hope Victoria can make up her mind between the two men in her life.
I received this book for free in a giveaway by the author. My opinion is my own and not influenced by anyone.
This book is the second in the series and I liked it just as I did the first one. I'm looking forward to the third book which came out a couple months ago. I hope Victoria can make up her mind between the two men in her life.
I received this book for free in a giveaway by the author. My opinion is my own and not influenced by anyone.
September 10, 2014
La Famiglia at the Casa Lido Resturant in Oceanside Park is as tight knit as ever. With this summer in high swing Victoria Rienzi is not only back in the kitchen she's back to solving murder at the Jersey Shore once again. This time she learns just how deep family secrets can be. With her crazy but sweet SIL (Sister-In-Law) Sofia and the infamous red folder by her side, she'll have this murder solved faster than you can say Pasta Premavera!
I seriously loved everything about this book! Once again Rosie Genova you continue to impress me with your writing! I love the characters and I find myself always thinking of Nonna whenever I am trying to make sauce in my own kitchen (mostly fearing that I might get whacked with her giant wooden Italian kitchen spoon!) I can honestly say; I laughed, I cried, I smirked and was left speechless reading this amazing book! I love simply love this series and if you love sassy Italians, great plots, crazy twists and a family as thick as the best pasta sauce you've ever had... then you will love this book and the series!
I seriously loved everything about this book! Once again Rosie Genova you continue to impress me with your writing! I love the characters and I find myself always thinking of Nonna whenever I am trying to make sauce in my own kitchen (mostly fearing that I might get whacked with her giant wooden Italian kitchen spoon!) I can honestly say; I laughed, I cried, I smirked and was left speechless reading this amazing book! I love simply love this series and if you love sassy Italians, great plots, crazy twists and a family as thick as the best pasta sauce you've ever had... then you will love this book and the series!
December 21, 2014
This is a light mystery, the second of a series featuring a writer from a "typical" Italian family in the restaurant business. The writer, Victoria Rienzi, is back in town to learn the business which means that she does the grunt work for the restaurant. While serving Italian Wedding Soup at a posh wedding reception she observes evil interactions between the icy country club president and two other people. Most people fear the sharp-tongue president but she also seems to have a "special" relationship with a man 20 years her junior.
The next morning, the rude club president is found dead on the nearby beach. So many people are suspects so Rienzi and her sister-in-law begin putting clues together, amid stalkers and threats. A cute quick read with just enough mystery to keep reading. I received a preview copy of the book from Goodreads.
The next morning, the rude club president is found dead on the nearby beach. So many people are suspects so Rienzi and her sister-in-law begin putting clues together, amid stalkers and threats. A cute quick read with just enough mystery to keep reading. I received a preview copy of the book from Goodreads.
September 16, 2014
Rosie has done it again with this second book in the Italian Kitchen Mystery series! She brings us back to a visit with Victoria and Nonna. It is time for a wedding and Vic is trying to make a thousand meatballs for thier wedding soup. Nonna is keeping her busy and adds little cookies to her growing agenda. All must be done in time for the wedding. So when the body of the Iron Lady club president is found dead, and the secrets are being leaked about the embezzlement of club money Victoria has to find out what happened and who the killer is. This is a great read! You will be captivated from the start!
September 7, 2014
what a great followup to the first book, Murder in Marinara. Like the first book I didn't figure it out but it made sense once the whole reason was explained. I do think that while this person was minimally on my radar, I never really would have expected it to turn out how it did. I thought it was interesting to follow along with how Vic's mind worked as a writer and trying to figure out who and why.
I do wonder if Vic and Tim are destined to get back together or if there will just be this tension between them.
I do wonder if Vic and Tim are destined to get back together or if there will just be this tension between them.
October 15, 2014
Disclaimer: I won this book from Goodreads.
I really liked this story. The mystery had plenty of suspects and the crime solvers had interesting personal (and sometimes dramatic) lives. The reveal at the end was kind of heartbreaking. I have not read the first book in the series, but I had no trouble figuring out how the characters related to each other. I would like to read more stories in the Italian Kitchen series. Also, I now have some recipes that look like they will produce yummy food.
I really liked this story. The mystery had plenty of suspects and the crime solvers had interesting personal (and sometimes dramatic) lives. The reveal at the end was kind of heartbreaking. I have not read the first book in the series, but I had no trouble figuring out how the characters related to each other. I would like to read more stories in the Italian Kitchen series. Also, I now have some recipes that look like they will produce yummy food.
October 25, 2014
I really enjoyed this mystery by Rosie Genova. The characters are likeable and the mystery is good with lots of twists and turns. All of the food descriptions and cooking made me crave Italian food (especially Italian Wedding Soup). I plan to try the recipe for it in the book. Now I want to read Murder by Marinara and then I will await the third Italian Kitchen Mystery. This book was a win from Goodreads.
October 1, 2014
I absolutely loved this book!! Instantly feel I love with the characters. Felt like I was with friends and family every time I opened the book to read. Hoping to try the recipes provided too!! Now I am going to read the first book in the series *LoL* Don't normally read backwards, just didn't realize there was a book 'before' this one :) Highly recommend anyone giving this series a try!
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