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The Case of the Missing Botticelli: A Massimo Domingo Mystery, Book 1
In this cozy mystery, American art history major Hadley Evans joins an art detective agency in Florence, Italy, working for Massimo Domingo, once a major player, now the Inspector Clouseau of the art world. Determined to save the flailing agency and prove her worth, Hadley and her sexy carabiniere boyfriend, Luca Ferrari, take on a mysterious client behind her boss's back. While hot on the trail of a missing masterpiece, they discover a hidden cache of stolen Nazi art in a Venetian villa and encounter a dangerous enemy with a link to an evil past.
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
Audible Audio
Published March 23, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 30, 2022
This review is for the audiobook.
Summary –
2 cozy mysteries set in the heart of Italy for the price of one!
A missing Botticelli takes Hadley and her boyfriend Luca on a wild chase across Italy to a deadly art theft the world chose to ignore. Hadley is over in Florence, Italy working for Massimo Domingo, an art detective agency. Her boss used to be prominent in his field but has resorted to a life of leisure. Hadley wants to prove her worth so when a phone call pleading for help arrives, Hadley jumps at the chance and takes the case herself. Partnering with her boyfriend, Luca, they follow every lead and clue. They never expected to wind up in a villa in Venice with a stolen stash of masterpieces taken by the Nazis during World War Two. Can Hadley return the artworks to their rightful owners and show her boss she’s worthy of being more than an errand gopher?
Narrator’s overall voice –
Bob Johnson may seem like a common name, but his voice is remarkable. His narration is commendable with the ability to sweep the listener away. I closed my eyes several times and allowed myself to travel to Italy. His ability to communicate for several characters in various dialects makes the story come alive.
Does the narrator fit the characters?
Yes, he does. His mastery of Italian accents as well as American is impressive. If I didn’t know it was one man, I would’ve thought this was narrated by several people.
Narrator’s reading style –
Bob Johnson reads with a natural cadence I thoroughly enjoyed. Not too fast and not too slow.
Narrator’s impact on reading experience –
Because The Case of the Missing Botticelli is a cozy mystery with a full cast of characters, it can be difficult to keep track of everything, but Bob Johnson facilitates the listener.
Narrator’s pacing –
The pacing in this audiobook is perfect. When there is action or an emotional scene, Bob picks up the pace. When there is a lot of information being presented, he slows down so the listener can keep up with the story.
Audiobook flow –
The flow of this audiobook is moving with plenty of ebbs and flows. Bob Johnson is the conductor in this concert, and he makes sure the reader gets a blissful performance.
What makes this audiobook unique –
If you're looking to be swept away to the lavish art world, pick up this audiobook. If you love reading about all things Italy, pick up this audiobook. If you're a cozy mystery reader, you'll love The Case of the Missing Botticelli audiobook.
Would I recommend this audiobook –
Yes! While this book is superb on its own merit, having Bob Johnson narrate it makes it a masterpiece. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5+ stars
Summary –
2 cozy mysteries set in the heart of Italy for the price of one!
A missing Botticelli takes Hadley and her boyfriend Luca on a wild chase across Italy to a deadly art theft the world chose to ignore. Hadley is over in Florence, Italy working for Massimo Domingo, an art detective agency. Her boss used to be prominent in his field but has resorted to a life of leisure. Hadley wants to prove her worth so when a phone call pleading for help arrives, Hadley jumps at the chance and takes the case herself. Partnering with her boyfriend, Luca, they follow every lead and clue. They never expected to wind up in a villa in Venice with a stolen stash of masterpieces taken by the Nazis during World War Two. Can Hadley return the artworks to their rightful owners and show her boss she’s worthy of being more than an errand gopher?
Narrator’s overall voice –
Bob Johnson may seem like a common name, but his voice is remarkable. His narration is commendable with the ability to sweep the listener away. I closed my eyes several times and allowed myself to travel to Italy. His ability to communicate for several characters in various dialects makes the story come alive.
Does the narrator fit the characters?
Yes, he does. His mastery of Italian accents as well as American is impressive. If I didn’t know it was one man, I would’ve thought this was narrated by several people.
Narrator’s reading style –
Bob Johnson reads with a natural cadence I thoroughly enjoyed. Not too fast and not too slow.
Narrator’s impact on reading experience –
Because The Case of the Missing Botticelli is a cozy mystery with a full cast of characters, it can be difficult to keep track of everything, but Bob Johnson facilitates the listener.
Narrator’s pacing –
The pacing in this audiobook is perfect. When there is action or an emotional scene, Bob picks up the pace. When there is a lot of information being presented, he slows down so the listener can keep up with the story.
Audiobook flow –
The flow of this audiobook is moving with plenty of ebbs and flows. Bob Johnson is the conductor in this concert, and he makes sure the reader gets a blissful performance.
What makes this audiobook unique –
If you're looking to be swept away to the lavish art world, pick up this audiobook. If you love reading about all things Italy, pick up this audiobook. If you're a cozy mystery reader, you'll love The Case of the Missing Botticelli audiobook.
Would I recommend this audiobook –
Yes! While this book is superb on its own merit, having Bob Johnson narrate it makes it a masterpiece. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5+ stars
January 29, 2022
This could have been a fun plot but too many scenes read like a summary, and in reading a mystery it would have been more enjoyable to feel like we were there with Hadley rather than be told about what she did. For most of the book, the accounting of what happened in the past was more interesting than the present time plot. Dry dialog with every character sounding the same didn’t help. Scenes that should have been exciting—like a character held at knifepoint—were recited without any sense of the characters’ emotions.
Art history and World War Two history forms the backbone of the story about recovering Nazi stolen art. It’s interesting content but the way it’s info dumped in long narrative or dialog chunks made for dry reading, especially if you’re already familiar with Göring, the Nazis plundering art, and the “Monument Men” who later recovered some of it.
I had a hard time relating to Hadley. She has little inner voice and shared few reflections even when faced with things that should have gotten a reaction from her—like discovering a trove of art in a villa. I’m not sure why it’s called a Massimo Domingo mystery when Hadley did the work and he didn’t appear on the scene until 3/4 of the way through.
Cozy mystery fans might like the plot, but flat storytelling made what should have been a romp a dull read for me. I won’t continue this series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
Art history and World War Two history forms the backbone of the story about recovering Nazi stolen art. It’s interesting content but the way it’s info dumped in long narrative or dialog chunks made for dry reading, especially if you’re already familiar with Göring, the Nazis plundering art, and the “Monument Men” who later recovered some of it.
I had a hard time relating to Hadley. She has little inner voice and shared few reflections even when faced with things that should have gotten a reaction from her—like discovering a trove of art in a villa. I’m not sure why it’s called a Massimo Domingo mystery when Hadley did the work and he didn’t appear on the scene until 3/4 of the way through.
Cozy mystery fans might like the plot, but flat storytelling made what should have been a romp a dull read for me. I won’t continue this series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
January 24, 2022
There’s a reason why Marilyn Baron is an award-winning author of 28 works of fiction: She masters every genre she embraces. With her newest novel, “The Case of the Missing Botticelli,” Baron adds cozy mystery to her enthralling canon.
And enthralling her new novel is indeed. Everything about "The Case of The Missing Botticelli” entertains. Hadley Evans, an American art history major, has moved to Florence, Italy, to finish her degree, which leads to a job at a declining art detective agency and an art-soaked life she isn’t sure she ever wants to leave. While this translates into trouble for her college sweetheart back home, a hunky Italian policeman deliciously redirects Hadley’s attentions just as her work for the Inspector Clouseau of the art world heats up after one perplexing phone call. With her protective beau Luca in tow, Hadley heads off on a clandestine trip to Venice she hopes will restore her agency’s reputation by way of a missing masterpiece hidden in a cache of stolen Nazi art guarded by a malevolent enemy who was born and bred to embrace a heinous past.
Everything about Baron’s new work is a feast for the senses – from mouth-watering passages about Italian food and drink to breathtaking treks throughout Florence and Venice. So keen is her talent for bringing foreign lands, romance and art history to life, in fact, that readers will be Googling “Botticelli” to see what’s real and what’s not. Unfortunately, much is, as Baron’s novel documents the tragic history of stolen Nazi art during World War II, a subject similarly mined in other current works, like Laura Morelli’s “The Stolen Lady.” In Baron’s capable hands, the heartbreaking truth is leavened with plenty of humor and spirited passion.
Even better, readers get two stories for the price of one. “The Case of the Missing Botticelli,” the first in Baron’s Massimo Domingo Mysteries series, actually includes the second – “The Case of the Vanishing Vermeer.” Part Two, also featuring our fearless heroes Hadley and Luca, her sexy Italian beau-turned-husband, is set in Florence and Lake Como, Italy. Baron’s second cozy mystery gives fans more of everything they’ll adore in her first – suspense, intrigue, travelogue-worthy Italian vistas, many laughs and much love.
Separately, the stories are captivating. Together, they’re a double delight from start to finish. I happily give this book 5 stars and eagerly await the third installment in Baron’s Massimo Domingo Mysteries series.
And enthralling her new novel is indeed. Everything about "The Case of The Missing Botticelli” entertains. Hadley Evans, an American art history major, has moved to Florence, Italy, to finish her degree, which leads to a job at a declining art detective agency and an art-soaked life she isn’t sure she ever wants to leave. While this translates into trouble for her college sweetheart back home, a hunky Italian policeman deliciously redirects Hadley’s attentions just as her work for the Inspector Clouseau of the art world heats up after one perplexing phone call. With her protective beau Luca in tow, Hadley heads off on a clandestine trip to Venice she hopes will restore her agency’s reputation by way of a missing masterpiece hidden in a cache of stolen Nazi art guarded by a malevolent enemy who was born and bred to embrace a heinous past.
Everything about Baron’s new work is a feast for the senses – from mouth-watering passages about Italian food and drink to breathtaking treks throughout Florence and Venice. So keen is her talent for bringing foreign lands, romance and art history to life, in fact, that readers will be Googling “Botticelli” to see what’s real and what’s not. Unfortunately, much is, as Baron’s novel documents the tragic history of stolen Nazi art during World War II, a subject similarly mined in other current works, like Laura Morelli’s “The Stolen Lady.” In Baron’s capable hands, the heartbreaking truth is leavened with plenty of humor and spirited passion.
Even better, readers get two stories for the price of one. “The Case of the Missing Botticelli,” the first in Baron’s Massimo Domingo Mysteries series, actually includes the second – “The Case of the Vanishing Vermeer.” Part Two, also featuring our fearless heroes Hadley and Luca, her sexy Italian beau-turned-husband, is set in Florence and Lake Como, Italy. Baron’s second cozy mystery gives fans more of everything they’ll adore in her first – suspense, intrigue, travelogue-worthy Italian vistas, many laughs and much love.
Separately, the stories are captivating. Together, they’re a double delight from start to finish. I happily give this book 5 stars and eagerly await the third installment in Baron’s Massimo Domingo Mysteries series.
January 24, 2022
From the first page, prolific historical fiction author Marilyn Baron plunges readers headfirst into the high-stakes world of art theft recovery and leads us on a roller-coaster ride through a tragic chapter in World War II history.
Florence, Italy-based newbie art theft detective Hadley Evans answers a chance phone call from a frantic museum curator meant for her boss Signore Domingo regarding a missing priceless Botticelli painting. With her boss unavailable, Hadley stretches the truth about Signore Domino’s participation in the search when she accepts the case. Hadley seizes the opportunity of a lifetime to pole vault from a lowly assistant status to superstardom if she can successfully recover the painting. Hadley and her hunky policeman boyfriend Luca follow a set of clues and discover a treasure-trove of priceless art stolen by Nazis from doomed Jews during World War II housed in a villa occupied by the grandchildren of Herman Göring’s mistress. Hadley and Luca must use all their skills to outwit disreputable art dealers willing to deny the return of the art to its rightful heirs for the sake of their profits.
Author Baron has skillfully woven a romance and mystery story into a true event and brought to life one of the lesser-known atrocities carried out by the Nazis by shining a light on a dark page of world history. The author’s detailed descriptions of the food, social mores, history, and buildings of Italy give readers an insider’s view of its fascinating cities. With a fast-paced plot and flawed characters readers find themselves rooting for, The Case of the Missing Botticelli keeps readers engaged and eagerly turning the pages right to the end.
Florence, Italy-based newbie art theft detective Hadley Evans answers a chance phone call from a frantic museum curator meant for her boss Signore Domingo regarding a missing priceless Botticelli painting. With her boss unavailable, Hadley stretches the truth about Signore Domino’s participation in the search when she accepts the case. Hadley seizes the opportunity of a lifetime to pole vault from a lowly assistant status to superstardom if she can successfully recover the painting. Hadley and her hunky policeman boyfriend Luca follow a set of clues and discover a treasure-trove of priceless art stolen by Nazis from doomed Jews during World War II housed in a villa occupied by the grandchildren of Herman Göring’s mistress. Hadley and Luca must use all their skills to outwit disreputable art dealers willing to deny the return of the art to its rightful heirs for the sake of their profits.
Author Baron has skillfully woven a romance and mystery story into a true event and brought to life one of the lesser-known atrocities carried out by the Nazis by shining a light on a dark page of world history. The author’s detailed descriptions of the food, social mores, history, and buildings of Italy give readers an insider’s view of its fascinating cities. With a fast-paced plot and flawed characters readers find themselves rooting for, The Case of the Missing Botticelli keeps readers engaged and eagerly turning the pages right to the end.
February 14, 2022
This was an interesting mystery. I loved Hadley's determination to prove herself and the strength to continue. She showed her intelligence by asking for help when she needed it. Throughout the story were details about researching provenances, ways to identify real paintings, and the history of art pilfering during WWII. There was also Hadley's love life as she tried to figure out what she truly wanted and what she might settle for. I felt she made the right choice.
There was a second case, sort of a continuation of the first, which had more historic details. Hadley's love life came to an HEA at this time.
I received a copy of this story through Goddess Fish Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
There was a second case, sort of a continuation of the first, which had more historic details. Hadley's love life came to an HEA at this time.
I received a copy of this story through Goddess Fish Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
January 29, 2022
Hadley Evans moved from Florida State University to Florence, Italy in order to complete her Art History degree, Upon her arrival, she interviewed with Dr. Frano Dotti, where there shortly, she joined Massimo Art Detective Agency, which focused on the recovery of missing artwork and returned the pieces to the rightful owners and "Signre Dominigo's Pocket Guide to Stolen Art Recovery" became required reading. After taking on a mysterious client, Hadley and her boyfriend Luca might find themselves becoming two additions to the Monuments Men.
Normally, a cozy mystery would not be something that I would usually read. When NetGalley offered me the novel and after seeing the tittle, I knew that I needed to give this book a read through. Intially, the titled piqued my curiosity, and since I have a degree in Art History, my brain gets pretty excited with anything from the Renaissance. Additionbally, I am amazed with rthe amount of plot Marilyn Baron packed into a 200 page book, plus the novel was well researched.
I appreciate NetGalley, Marilyn Baron, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and write an honest review of this charming novel, which has earned a five out of five stars.
Normally, a cozy mystery would not be something that I would usually read. When NetGalley offered me the novel and after seeing the tittle, I knew that I needed to give this book a read through. Intially, the titled piqued my curiosity, and since I have a degree in Art History, my brain gets pretty excited with anything from the Renaissance. Additionbally, I am amazed with rthe amount of plot Marilyn Baron packed into a 200 page book, plus the novel was well researched.
I appreciate NetGalley, Marilyn Baron, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and write an honest review of this charming novel, which has earned a five out of five stars.
January 25, 2022
The case of the missing Botticelli was my first book by author Marilyn Baron, but it won’t be my last. The inclusion of culturally and historically accurate information included was incredible. I felt as if I’d had a refresher course in art history and it was delivered deliciously in the guise of Italian Renaissance paintings. The mystery of the art thefts was intriguing, holding my interest from start to finish and the main characters were realistic and relatable. I will be following this author more closely and reading a few of her dozens of prior titles. 5-star-read!
January 29, 2022
Part what-if history, part romance, and a whole lot of fun! It's the Art History major, the member of the Carabinieri, the bumbling Art Detective, descendants of some WW2 bad guys, beautiful stolen paintings, and an interesting lot of WHAT IF. The publisher's blurb is a good hook and no spoilers here, so just ENJOY. LOVED IT!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from The Wild Rose Press, Inc. via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from The Wild Rose Press, Inc. via NetGalley. Thank you!
July 13, 2022
Our Review: This cozy mystery will appeal to readers on many levels. Author Baron brings extensive knowledge of art history as well as events occurring during the early twentieth century. The settings of several European cities add a richness and flavor to this interesting story. The pace is non-stop; the characters are well-drawn and intriguing. A winner all around.
On a scale of 1-5, The Case of the Missing Botticelli deserves a 5.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
On a scale of 1-5, The Case of the Missing Botticelli deserves a 5.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
January 21, 2022
The Case of the Missing Botticelli is a fun romp through Italy and the art world. It reads almost like a travel guide Italy in places, and you can feel like you are right there in Florence. While Italy and art, including some history on stolen art work, particularly during WWII, are very well described, I could have used a bit more of the characters to round out the story a bit more. Thank you to the Wild Rose Press and Netgalley for this advance reader copy.
February 8, 2022
i’m a sucker for anything that has to do with paintings and the art world. this has foreign lands, a dash of romance and lots of art history. I really enjoyed this and will definitely be looking for more by this author.
January 31, 2022
A fun sort of art lesson in a cozy. This has all the elements of a good cozy. An amateur sleuth, a cute boyfriend (2 this time), and some fun. However, The Case of the Missing Botticelli also has some art education and even some history of art artifacts during the world war.
Hadley, our soon to be amateur sleuth, hired onto the Art Detective Investigator firm hoping to finish her art degree. Turns out she becomes a gopher. Not just a “let me get your coffee gopher” but even a “go buy this for my mistress” gopher too. You can surely see why she decided she could snoop out the Botticelli by herself. Anything was better than a gopher.
This is an easy read with great characters and plenty of laughter too.
Hadley, our soon to be amateur sleuth, hired onto the Art Detective Investigator firm hoping to finish her art degree. Turns out she becomes a gopher. Not just a “let me get your coffee gopher” but even a “go buy this for my mistress” gopher too. You can surely see why she decided she could snoop out the Botticelli by herself. Anything was better than a gopher.
This is an easy read with great characters and plenty of laughter too.
January 30, 2022
As a fan of historical fiction, I wanted to give this title a read. It did not disappoint. The romantic Italian setting and the art world ambiance hooked me. Untangling the art theft with all the history involved convinced me to keep turning the pages. Baron directed the journey and I was on the best ride through Italy learning the history of the seedy Italian art black market underworld. Recommended.
February 27, 2022
A big thank you to NetGalley and Wild Rose Press for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. I enjoyed the book, and the glimpse into the art world and architecture and history surrounding World War 2. I liked all the characters, Hadley was amazingly lucky to get a position in Florence as an Art History Major. Those jobs are scare. While the plot was interesting, it all seemed to easy. Hadley's romance with Luca-What? It didn't seem very realistic and felt very superficial. But I loved the concept and the descriptions. For me this was 3 stars, but I must say that I would still try this author again.
February 8, 2022
American art history major Hadley Evans takes a job in Florence, Italy at an art detective agency working for Massimo Domingo. The agency is on its way down so in order to save the agency Hadley takes a job without her boss’s knowledge. The job involves searching for a missing Botticelli painting.
Hadley’s search leads her to the home of an evil man. Her search reveals paintings that were stolen many years ago and have been kept under lock and key in a private collection. Paintings that have never been seen by the world. Paintings that the world does not even know exist.
The search for the missing Botticelli soon becomes very dangerous for Hadley and her boyfriend Luca Ferrari. The Case of the Missing Botticelli kept me on the edge of my seat as the suspense built it became more and more intense with each turn of the page not knowing what to expect on the next page. The excitement ramped up and up racing to that ultimate ending.
The Case of the Missing Botticelli is the first book by Marilyn Baron that I have read but it won’t be the last. Now that I have been introduced to Marilyn Baron’s writing I do believe I have found another author to add to my favorite’s list.
I would like to recommend The Case of the Missing Botticelli to all fans of mystery and suspense! One-click your copy of The Case of the Missing Botticelli today!
Hadley’s search leads her to the home of an evil man. Her search reveals paintings that were stolen many years ago and have been kept under lock and key in a private collection. Paintings that have never been seen by the world. Paintings that the world does not even know exist.
The search for the missing Botticelli soon becomes very dangerous for Hadley and her boyfriend Luca Ferrari. The Case of the Missing Botticelli kept me on the edge of my seat as the suspense built it became more and more intense with each turn of the page not knowing what to expect on the next page. The excitement ramped up and up racing to that ultimate ending.
The Case of the Missing Botticelli is the first book by Marilyn Baron that I have read but it won’t be the last. Now that I have been introduced to Marilyn Baron’s writing I do believe I have found another author to add to my favorite’s list.
I would like to recommend The Case of the Missing Botticelli to all fans of mystery and suspense! One-click your copy of The Case of the Missing Botticelli today!
February 14, 2022
The Case of the Missing Botticelli is perfect for lovers of cozy mystery fiction and especially fans of the old masters of the art world.
I enjoyed the various threads running through the story. Will the romance between Hadley and Luca thrive or fizzle in the face of opposition from both sides of the families?
Can Hadley solve the mystery of the missing Botticelli? Will Signore Domingo begin to appreciate his assistant and her efforts to save his reputation?
There is so much to enjoy in the tale. The lush settings, the inside look at the art world, and the theft of so many treasures by Hitler and Mussolini during the war, all combine for compelling, fast reading.
There is a short continuation at the end of the book where Hadley takes on a new case about a missing Vermeer. It’s a nice bonus novella.
I received a copy of the book for a blog tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
I enjoyed the various threads running through the story. Will the romance between Hadley and Luca thrive or fizzle in the face of opposition from both sides of the families?
Can Hadley solve the mystery of the missing Botticelli? Will Signore Domingo begin to appreciate his assistant and her efforts to save his reputation?
There is so much to enjoy in the tale. The lush settings, the inside look at the art world, and the theft of so many treasures by Hitler and Mussolini during the war, all combine for compelling, fast reading.
There is a short continuation at the end of the book where Hadley takes on a new case about a missing Vermeer. It’s a nice bonus novella.
I received a copy of the book for a blog tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
January 28, 2022
***** When art, romance, and history combine
Having read this author before, I knew I was probably in for a fine story, laced with fascinating historical facts and appealing characters. I was not disappointed! It starts off with a phone call from a mysterious woman. Hadley, a U.S. art history student who’s left her fiancé Charles back home to now live in Florence, Italy and work for a seasoned art detective, wonders what it’s all about. The woman on the phone doesn’t divulge much, just that her case is urgent and would Hadley come to help her? Not wanting to bother her boss, Signore Domingo, who is ‘busy’ with his mistress, the American decides to investigate the case herself, with the help of her current boyfriend: an Italian police detective named Luca.
We then find out how forged paintings by famous artists are rampant in the underbelly of the art world. And by her detailed descriptions of the Uffizi Gallery and Botticelli’s paintings, it was obvious how much the author truly loves these well-known works. Luca and Hadley go to a villa, which was inherited by a beautiful and tempting young woman named Isabella and her brother. There, many paintings have been hidden, as well as an unknown drawing study by Botticelli called “Amore.” Suddenly, the truth about the villa and the paintings come out. Apparently, back in the 1930s, this villa had been supposedly ‘owned’ by Goering and given to his mistress––Isabella and her brother’s grandmother. But actually, a Jewish family had owned the villa and all the paintings. They had been told that if they left their home with all its artwork, they would be allowed to escape from Germany. The author goes into various cases of theft during that period, as well as the story of the famous Monuments Men, American soldiers who, at the end of the war, helped save thousands of paintings stolen from the Jewish population by the Nazis.
Meanwhile, Charles, Hadley’s fiancé shows up and we witness her dilemma: whom should she choose in her life? Luca or Charles? Is her relationship with Luca, filled with complete sexual satisfaction, companionship, yet concern about a possible dalliance be enough to outweigh her steady, yet somewhat dishonest relationship with her fiancé? After all, her parents vehemently want the American union, and Luca’s mama is appalled that her son has chosen to be with a non-Italian. How will this interesting, well-told story end? You’ll just have to read it to find out! Highly recommended!
Having read this author before, I knew I was probably in for a fine story, laced with fascinating historical facts and appealing characters. I was not disappointed! It starts off with a phone call from a mysterious woman. Hadley, a U.S. art history student who’s left her fiancé Charles back home to now live in Florence, Italy and work for a seasoned art detective, wonders what it’s all about. The woman on the phone doesn’t divulge much, just that her case is urgent and would Hadley come to help her? Not wanting to bother her boss, Signore Domingo, who is ‘busy’ with his mistress, the American decides to investigate the case herself, with the help of her current boyfriend: an Italian police detective named Luca.
We then find out how forged paintings by famous artists are rampant in the underbelly of the art world. And by her detailed descriptions of the Uffizi Gallery and Botticelli’s paintings, it was obvious how much the author truly loves these well-known works. Luca and Hadley go to a villa, which was inherited by a beautiful and tempting young woman named Isabella and her brother. There, many paintings have been hidden, as well as an unknown drawing study by Botticelli called “Amore.” Suddenly, the truth about the villa and the paintings come out. Apparently, back in the 1930s, this villa had been supposedly ‘owned’ by Goering and given to his mistress––Isabella and her brother’s grandmother. But actually, a Jewish family had owned the villa and all the paintings. They had been told that if they left their home with all its artwork, they would be allowed to escape from Germany. The author goes into various cases of theft during that period, as well as the story of the famous Monuments Men, American soldiers who, at the end of the war, helped save thousands of paintings stolen from the Jewish population by the Nazis.
Meanwhile, Charles, Hadley’s fiancé shows up and we witness her dilemma: whom should she choose in her life? Luca or Charles? Is her relationship with Luca, filled with complete sexual satisfaction, companionship, yet concern about a possible dalliance be enough to outweigh her steady, yet somewhat dishonest relationship with her fiancé? After all, her parents vehemently want the American union, and Luca’s mama is appalled that her son has chosen to be with a non-Italian. How will this interesting, well-told story end? You’ll just have to read it to find out! Highly recommended!
January 21, 2022
It's been almost five years since my last visit to Italy, the country of my soul. Once I discovered that Marilyn Baron had set her new book there, it went straight to my must-read list. Situated primarily in Florence and Venice, with side trips to Lake Como and Milan, reading this story was like visiting my favorite places from my sofa. It's clear that Baron is both knowledgeable about and holds deep affection for Italy. The scenic, architectural, and cultural richness of the country shines through on every page.
Something else that shines through is this author's appreciation for art, around which the mysteries in the book are centered, in particular, art with ties to WWII, Germany, and the Holocaust. I was fascinated by the blending of fiction with the obviously well-researched facts surrounding treasured paintings by European masters that were confiscated (stolen) from Jewish families in the 1930s and 1940s, some of which have been recovered and others that are missing still, as well as the ongoing struggle of surviving family members to reclaim their rightful property. I want to know more.
There is a romantic thread that weaves through the story as well, featuring Hadley, the (American) main protagonist and Luca, an Italian carabiniere (police officer). It's entertaining and does continue to evolve throughout the story with Luca assisting Hadley in her art detective role. This is the first book of a new series so, if Hadley continues to have a leading role in future books, I'm hopeful we'll see her romantic relationship progress as well. There are already plenty of opportunities for both conflict and humor in cultural expectations as well as those of Hadley's and Luca's American and Italian families. Italian mamas and Southern Belles (Hadley's mother) do tend to have opinions and aren't hesitant to voice them.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries, "traveling" from the comfort of home, engaging characters and fascinating historical facts, all centered within the high-stakes world of stolen art, give this book a try. I enjoyed it and will be looking forward to the next Massimo Domingo mystery.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
Something else that shines through is this author's appreciation for art, around which the mysteries in the book are centered, in particular, art with ties to WWII, Germany, and the Holocaust. I was fascinated by the blending of fiction with the obviously well-researched facts surrounding treasured paintings by European masters that were confiscated (stolen) from Jewish families in the 1930s and 1940s, some of which have been recovered and others that are missing still, as well as the ongoing struggle of surviving family members to reclaim their rightful property. I want to know more.
There is a romantic thread that weaves through the story as well, featuring Hadley, the (American) main protagonist and Luca, an Italian carabiniere (police officer). It's entertaining and does continue to evolve throughout the story with Luca assisting Hadley in her art detective role. This is the first book of a new series so, if Hadley continues to have a leading role in future books, I'm hopeful we'll see her romantic relationship progress as well. There are already plenty of opportunities for both conflict and humor in cultural expectations as well as those of Hadley's and Luca's American and Italian families. Italian mamas and Southern Belles (Hadley's mother) do tend to have opinions and aren't hesitant to voice them.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries, "traveling" from the comfort of home, engaging characters and fascinating historical facts, all centered within the high-stakes world of stolen art, give this book a try. I enjoyed it and will be looking forward to the next Massimo Domingo mystery.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
January 30, 2022
Marilyn Baron introduces her new Massimo Domingo series with The Case of the Missing Botticelli. This book follows art recovery investigator Hadley Evans in Florence, Italy as she investigates the possibility of a previously unknown work of Botticelli that was purportedly 'sold' to Hermann Görring. As Hadley conducts her investigation she is accompanied by her boyfriend Luca who is a detective with the Italian Police.
The character development and scene setting captivates the reader's imagination and easily allows for the visualization of the events as they are occurring. I was quickly drawn into the story and enjoyed the fast pace of the action from start to finish. Even though the client was not who she appeared to be, the information provided was realistic as far as the lengths that are sometimes needed to restore lost works of art to their rightful owners. The underlying conflict in the romance of Hadley and Luca gave this book an extra punch of mystery as they dealt with their relationship and what each wanted from it.
This book contained a second case for Hadley and her boss, The Case of the Vanishing Vermeer, which gave additional insight into the issues surrounding not only the restoration of art to its rightful owners but also the lengths that unsavory characters will take to prevent that restoration from happening. All told, I found these stories to be entertaining and a bit educational and look forward to future cases for Hadley to undertake in her life as well as watching her navigate her relationship with Luca.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Wild Rose Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The character development and scene setting captivates the reader's imagination and easily allows for the visualization of the events as they are occurring. I was quickly drawn into the story and enjoyed the fast pace of the action from start to finish. Even though the client was not who she appeared to be, the information provided was realistic as far as the lengths that are sometimes needed to restore lost works of art to their rightful owners. The underlying conflict in the romance of Hadley and Luca gave this book an extra punch of mystery as they dealt with their relationship and what each wanted from it.
This book contained a second case for Hadley and her boss, The Case of the Vanishing Vermeer, which gave additional insight into the issues surrounding not only the restoration of art to its rightful owners but also the lengths that unsavory characters will take to prevent that restoration from happening. All told, I found these stories to be entertaining and a bit educational and look forward to future cases for Hadley to undertake in her life as well as watching her navigate her relationship with Luca.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Wild Rose Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 20, 2022
Love Italy? How about cozies about missing renaissance paintings? If so, this book is for you!
Hadley Evans is living in Florence, Italy as part of the Florence Program from Florida State University to finish her degree in Art History. After receiving her degree, she stayed on when the program director arranged for a job interview with Signore Domingo's Art Detective Agency; however, so far all she's been doing is running his personal errands. That changed when Hadley takes a call from the new curator at the Ufffizzi Gallery asking for a meeting with Signore Domingo. Since her boss was indisposed at the time, Hadley decides to go to the meeting in his stead. When she arrives, the curator of the Uffizzi tells her they loaned studies made of the face of Venus in Botticellis the Birth of Venus to the High Museum in Atlanta, received a call from their curator and that if last of the studies is real, then the painting hanging in the Uffizzi Museum is a fake. When Hadley goes to the museum to take another look at the painting, she comfirms it is genuine and now must hunt down the source for the study in question.
Thus begins the hunt for the source of the last study and in doing so finds a stash of stolen artwork by the Nazis. I think this is a very interesting, well written book I would definitely recommend this book everyone who loves mysteries and especially mysteries regarding stolen art.
Please note: I was given a copy of this book by the publisher through Netgalley.com. All opinions expressed are my own.
Hadley Evans is living in Florence, Italy as part of the Florence Program from Florida State University to finish her degree in Art History. After receiving her degree, she stayed on when the program director arranged for a job interview with Signore Domingo's Art Detective Agency; however, so far all she's been doing is running his personal errands. That changed when Hadley takes a call from the new curator at the Ufffizzi Gallery asking for a meeting with Signore Domingo. Since her boss was indisposed at the time, Hadley decides to go to the meeting in his stead. When she arrives, the curator of the Uffizzi tells her they loaned studies made of the face of Venus in Botticellis the Birth of Venus to the High Museum in Atlanta, received a call from their curator and that if last of the studies is real, then the painting hanging in the Uffizzi Museum is a fake. When Hadley goes to the museum to take another look at the painting, she comfirms it is genuine and now must hunt down the source for the study in question.
Thus begins the hunt for the source of the last study and in doing so finds a stash of stolen artwork by the Nazis. I think this is a very interesting, well written book I would definitely recommend this book everyone who loves mysteries and especially mysteries regarding stolen art.
Please note: I was given a copy of this book by the publisher through Netgalley.com. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 30, 2022
The Case of the Missing Botticelli by Marilyn Baron is an escape to Florence, Italy. When I pick up a Marilyn Baron book, I know I will be transported to a beautiful place and this book delivers! The story was surrounded with lavish Italian flavor which swept me away and kept me turning pages.
Our heroine Hadley is a feisty, adventurous art-historian intern. Seriously, she needs a raise because she does the work while her employer lives off his reputation (probably built on a multitude of interns). He is an odious character that I loved to hate. Kudos to Baron for creating such a relatable work environment which makes the reader wish for Hadley to succeed. While I must warn the reader of a possible cheating trigger with good characters and bad, as well as negative and positive consequences, I understood Hadley's choices.
Is Luca the love interest swoon-worthy? He is the Italian police officer who sweeps Hadley off her feet and becomes her sidekick. They reminded me a little of John Steed and Emma Peel in the old Avengers cozy mysteries. Luca is accommodating and supportive of Hadley's schemes to a fault. (Those who read the blow-up will know exactly what I'm referring to--but no spoilers here!) He bucks the old cliche of the emotionally distant detective by allowing Hadley's expertise to take the lead on the case.
Overall, I recommend The Case of the Missing Botticelli by Marilyn Baron to anyone who wishes to escape to the art museums of Florence, Italy.
Our heroine Hadley is a feisty, adventurous art-historian intern. Seriously, she needs a raise because she does the work while her employer lives off his reputation (probably built on a multitude of interns). He is an odious character that I loved to hate. Kudos to Baron for creating such a relatable work environment which makes the reader wish for Hadley to succeed. While I must warn the reader of a possible cheating trigger with good characters and bad, as well as negative and positive consequences, I understood Hadley's choices.
Is Luca the love interest swoon-worthy? He is the Italian police officer who sweeps Hadley off her feet and becomes her sidekick. They reminded me a little of John Steed and Emma Peel in the old Avengers cozy mysteries. Luca is accommodating and supportive of Hadley's schemes to a fault. (Those who read the blow-up will know exactly what I'm referring to--but no spoilers here!) He bucks the old cliche of the emotionally distant detective by allowing Hadley's expertise to take the lead on the case.
Overall, I recommend The Case of the Missing Botticelli by Marilyn Baron to anyone who wishes to escape to the art museums of Florence, Italy.
October 3, 2022
In part one of this two-part cozy mystery, American Hadley Evans is living the dream in Florence, Italy while working for an art detective agency. Then she answers a phone call from a mysterious woman and finally gets the chance to prove herself to her boss. After she and her police officer boyfriend, Luca, set out to find a long-lost Boticelli, their relationship and even their lives are put at risk.
In part two, Hadley and Luca track down a missing Vermeer while she second-guesses her future with Luca.
I don’t read cozies often, so this book was pretty interesting. Ms. Baron gave detailed descriptions of various paintings as well as locations like Florence and Venice, so I was able to easily picture them in my mind. She also dropped lots of Renaissance and WWII history into the narrative. Sometimes I felt as though I were reading a text book on history and art, but since I’m a history buff, I enjoyed it.
The story is told only from Hadley’s POV, so I connected better with her than I did Luca. Despite their culture differences and sometimes lack of communication, they fit well together in both their personal and professional lives. I’m sure whatever mystery or adventure they go on next will be loads of fun.
5 Stars
In part two, Hadley and Luca track down a missing Vermeer while she second-guesses her future with Luca.
I don’t read cozies often, so this book was pretty interesting. Ms. Baron gave detailed descriptions of various paintings as well as locations like Florence and Venice, so I was able to easily picture them in my mind. She also dropped lots of Renaissance and WWII history into the narrative. Sometimes I felt as though I were reading a text book on history and art, but since I’m a history buff, I enjoyed it.
The story is told only from Hadley’s POV, so I connected better with her than I did Luca. Despite their culture differences and sometimes lack of communication, they fit well together in both their personal and professional lives. I’m sure whatever mystery or adventure they go on next will be loads of fun.
5 Stars
January 24, 2022
If you like historical fiction, then you will enjoy this book. I love historical fiction because I learn from it. When I read historical fiction, I like to look up facts. In this case, I looked up the artist Botticelli. He is an artist that I wasn’t familiar with before reading this book. I am so glad that I learned something new. I was somewhat familiar with Vermeer. As a child of a survivor, I also appreciated the integral part the Holocaust played in this book.
If you like mysteries, this is a book for you. This book includes two art mysteries. I am hoping the author will write a sequel to this book. I really liked the characters, and I would like to see them evolve. I also would like to read and learn more about other artists through mystery solving.
This is a good quick read.
If you like mysteries, this is a book for you. This book includes two art mysteries. I am hoping the author will write a sequel to this book. I really liked the characters, and I would like to see them evolve. I also would like to read and learn more about other artists through mystery solving.
This is a good quick read.
July 25, 2023
Baron is a prolific writer drawing us into the romance areas of Europe where many of her stories take place. Each detail is well researched making her characters real. But will Hadley Evans be satisfied when she leaves a stale high school relationship to find work in Italy? Her qualifications and quest lead her to a job in Florence with an art detective, whose mission is solely to make money tracking down works of art stolen by the nazis. One lunchtime, when he is out (with his mistress), she decides to keep to herself the contents of a telephone message she just received. Maybe this is her chance to be famous in this niche world. With her new Italian police friend in tow, she hopes to find the source of the mysterious message. "The Case of the Missing Botticelli" is a gripping story filled with snippets of art history and research tips. A quick read. Highly recommended.
September 9, 2025
Superb! Historically and Geographically accurate to perfection. Beautifully researched and executed story of found art and looted Nazi treasure. All while falling in love in Italy.
Our main character Hadley, stumbles into a web of stolen art from World War II and must save the day to right the wrongs perpetrated against the innocent's. Highly Recommended for all.
Our main character Hadley, stumbles into a web of stolen art from World War II and must save the day to right the wrongs perpetrated against the innocent's. Highly Recommended for all.
February 6, 2022
This book was on my mobile for a few days and then it disappeared.
From 29th January when it arrived in my inbox.
What a pity!!! I was. looking forward to reading it.
Good luck with the book,
From 29th January when it arrived in my inbox.
What a pity!!! I was. looking forward to reading it.
Good luck with the book,
July 3, 2025
I enjoyed this mystery and Art adventure book. And i look forward to her further books.
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