The Road to Murder

"Though it took some time to settle into his new life in Gravigna, Italy, following the death of his wife, Nico Doyle has figured a thing or two out. The locals have not only welcomed him, but are giving him rave reviews on his contributions to the menu at Sotto il Fico, and his budding relationship with Nelli is healing old wounds. When Nico receives a phone call late at night, he tries to ignore it. A phone call at that time could only mean trouble. But the ringing is persistent, and at Nelli's urging, he answers. It's Perillo of the local carabinieri. A woman was found dead in her home, and the only person at the scene of the crime only speaks English, which presents a complication for Perillo. Though Nico would rather leave his days as a homicide detective for the NYPD behind him, he reluctantly agrees, once again, to help out Perillo with the case. Signora Nora was found, slumped dead over her piano, by her English friend, who was visiting the lavish villa for the week. Nora, the friend says, was not a pleasant woman, but she was intriguing. Judging by the crime scene, Perillo and Nico determine foul play was likely, and they don't have to look long or hard for suspects. Following the death of her husband, Nora had taken on a number of lovers, her two daughters aren't on the best terms with her, and there's a lot to be gained from the sale of her residence--not to mention the rich paintings and expensive jewelry that filled it. Nico and Perillo have their hands full as they try to solve the murder and restore peace to the cyprus-lined roads of Gravigna."--