Death in the Dolomites

Author: David P. Wagner
Publisher: Poisoned Pen Press
Genre: Mystery
ISBN: 978-1-4642-0270-4
Pages: 236
Price: $24.95

Rick Montoya is all set to enjoy a week off from his translation business, skiing with his old college chum. But when Luca Albani requests Rick’s assistance investigating the disappearance of an American businessman, Rick immediately agrees. Albani is looking for more than translation help, and Rick finds himself tagging along to visit everyone Albani plans to interrogate. The case quickly turns to murder, when the body is discovered.

Each meeting reveals additional information about the suspect’s and victim’s lives, and Albani and Rick find themselves more and more puzzled. The choice of murder weapon suggests the purpose of the man’s last actions, but who was he with, and why? Someone thinks Rick is getting too close to the truth – will time run out before he can find out who that is?

Death in the Dolomites is the sequel to Cold Tuscan Stone in the Rick Montoya mystery series. Like the first book, this one is also heavy on the Italian ambiance, and fine wines and delicious food are liberally sprinkled throughout the story. The author plays fair with the reader, and all clues are revealed before the final showdown. Another delightful reading – and vicarious dining – experience. I highly recommend this series.

Reviewer: Alice Berger