I've really enjoyed TA Williams' romantic comedies over the last few years so I was intrigued to see that he has branched out into a new genre. Unsurprisingly, Murder in Tuscany, is just as enjoyable and it has many of the elements that made the author's previous novels so wonderful: vivid descriptions of a picturesque area of Italy, lots of lively characters and a beautiful dog.

The central character in Murder In Tuscany is DCI Dan Armstrong. I found him to be a very likeable character - friendly and good humoured with an interesting personal story. As well as the investigation, I also found his personal life interesting and hoped that things would work out well for him.

The investigation into the murder at Villa Volpone is highly engaging and as there are a number of guests staying at the resort, this means a large number of suspects. They all have colourful backgrounds and there are several with a motive for murder, especially as the victim was not particularly likeable and I was intrigued as I read on to discover the full story. I was unable to guess myself until the very end!

I understand Murder In Tuscany is the beginning of a new series and I can't wait to read more!

Well known for his delightful romances set in Italy, TA Williams has turned his hand to cosy crime. This change of genre is just as delightful as retired DCI Dan Armstrong is caught up in a murder mystery on a writing retreat in the Tuscan hills. With each guest hiding a secret, the readxer is swept along in the chase to unearth the culprit. There is still the same beautiful descriptions of italy and gorgeous food but with an added soupcon of mystery and suspense. TA Williams is on to a winner. I thoroughly enjoyed this feast and am looking forward to the next.

Retired DCI Dan Armstrong is given a retirement gift to attend a creative writing course in Tuscany. Nothing could be better except the small print states it's on erotic fiction writing.

During this period a murder takes place and it's one of his belongings that has been used as the murder weapon, but what better than to have a DCI on-site to solve the case.

This was a great read with fantastic characters from the start, some which I was suspicious of, some which left me a little gob-smacked and some you couldn't help but warm to.

This was a great cozy crime novel with a little bit or romance mixed in. This is the first I have read by this author and I loved the use of language and easy voice used throughout with a narrative that will mislead you until the end.

I think you can always tell when an author’s really enjoying their writing – and it’s plain from the very beginning that this book was written by an author having the best possible time. And it becomes entirely infectious – a book that’s fun to write becomes a book that’s fun to read too, and I thought this book was quite wonderful. And it’s not only a great one to read as a standalone, but the perfect foundation for an ongoing series.

In the author’s romances, we’ve got used to the well drawn female protagonists – it must have been particularly liberating to create a male lead for a change, and ex-DCI Dan Armstrong was a great character. Dan’s very much out of his comfort zone as he arrives at Villa Volpone for his creative writing course – a retirement gift from his colleagues, who really hadn’t read the small print when making the booking. And then the rest of the cast assembles – the eccentric, the mysterious, the ones who might not be quite what they seem, the few who feel as out of place as he does – and he also meets his host Jonah (the allegedly famous author) along with his family and lugubrious butler. When Jonah is found murdered – and it transpires that his cause of death is far from straightforward – what follows is the best of locked room mysteries where Dan teams up with a friend in the local police to attempt to identify the perpetrator.

I really loved every moment of this book – and much of that enjoyment came from the characterisation. Dan himself is just so singularly likeable – the book’s written from his viewpoint and, despite the personal issues he’s slowly coming to terms with, he views everything with a wry and self-deprecating humour that makes the reading a joy. And every single character at the Villa is wonderfully drawn, some of them caricatures at first but with their real selves slowly uncovered. Dan’s personal story runs alongside the murder investigation – I really enjoyed his alliance and friendship with local detective Virgilio, his small steps into the world of possible romance, and loved his adventures with the Villa’s enthusiastic and ebullient black labrador Oscar.

The thread of humour runs throughout – and I very much enjoyed it – but there’s plenty about this book that would more than satisfy a more dedicated crime reader, with all the unexpected twists and turns of the investigation and its distinct flavour of classic Agatha Christie. And it’ll also more than satisfy anyone with particular expectations of the author’s own writing – the Tuscan setting is every bit as vividly drawn as those in his romances, filled with description of the views, the walks among living history, and so many meals to enjoy.

I’m just so delighted that this book will be the first in a new series – it’s complete in itself, but certainly left me wanting more. Whatever your reading tastes, very highly recommended – and I’m really looking forward to the next one…

After countless romance novels (I’ve read and enjoyed quite a few), T.A. Williams has strayed into the dark side with this, his first murder mystery. But don’t be afraid, this is a cozy mystery so his trademark elements are still present here. Did anyone say black lab?

Retired DCI Dan Armstrong got from his colleagues a creative writing course in the Tuscan hills as a retirement gift. His new life will be upended when his host is found stabbed with his award-winning silver dagger. Forced out of retirement, he will collaborate with the Italian police to bring the killer to justice.

When you’re good at something and it works well, it might be difficult and scary to try something different, that’s why I’m so glad to say that the change from rom-com to cozy mystery worked perfectly. From the endearing, charming and quirky characters to the gorgeous setting, everything was really enjoyable in this fun mystery that is the first installment in a new series.

The story started out a bit slow, setting up all the pieces on the board, but once the murder happened it turn into quite a fast read.

The murder mystery was quite intriguing as right from the start it wasn’t clear the number of perpetrators, so theories were legion! I had a fully formed one I was sure would be the correct one but, although I guessed the who, I got the why completely wrong, so it was fun being misled right until the end.

He may have changed genres, but the author’s love of Italy is still palpable in every page. From the wonderful descriptions to the mouth watering foods the characters keep having (why so much torture, why??!!), he makes the reader fall in love with all of it at the same time Dan did.

The elderly (and quite shameless) ladies in the story put the note of humor that mixed so well with the general feel of the story.

Great start to what promises to be a fun and delightful series.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and to Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour.

A Simple Whodunnit Mystery..............................


Murder In Tuscany by T A Williams is a simple mystery about a murder in a villa with 11 residents. Although, the plot is simple, but, still it has a spark right from the beginning. At first, while reading I was eager to know that who is going to be murdered? And, after that who is the culprit? Indeed a good book to finish within a day. All the characters are far apart from each other, but, they are introduced as same at first. The real juice comes towards the end when the story unfolds in layers. I really enjoyed the story. Tip of the iceberg is that you cannot miss Oscar, the dog.

Definitely, the book is 5 stars. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Netgalley for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.

When you start with a newly retired and newly single police detective Dan Armstrong attending a two week writer’s workshop at a villa in Tuscany you’ve got me hooked. Throw in the fact that his detective pals chipped in to send him to the writers workshop in Tuscany and oops… didn’t read the fine print that it’s a workshop for erotica writers (or did they?) and you’ve got me unable to put this cozy mystery down for even a minute.

Of course there is a murder and Dan gets pulled back into detective mode and teams up with the local Italian police to solve the murder.

I highly recommend this so easy to jump right into and so hard to put down mystery. Five stars from me. Many thanks to Netgally and Boldwood Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

While I am used to singing the praises of T. A. Williams’ romantic fiction, we have a new venture from him as he embarks on a life of crime…writing, with his first cosy crime novel, Murder in Tuscany.

Initially, what’s great about this book are the things that you would expect from T. A. Williams – great attention to the beautiful Tuscan setting, historical details and descriptions of the environment and the local food that make you feel that you’re really there, and his obvious lived experience of being in Italy – but this time, there is a thorny mystery to contend with too.

Dan Armstrong was an interesting character, a former police officer whose marriage is in its last throes, and although we know a lot about him by the end of the novel, I have a feeling there are hidden depths that can be explored should this become a series. The idea of the detective who is retired, but can’t quite switch his brain off is definitely a great hook for a series.

The other characters in the villa – all suspects in the murder – are really well-drawn. Any of them has the potential to be the killer, but can Dan’s keen mind tap into the motivations of, among others, two elderly authors of erotica, a suspicious American couple and a woman who might just resolve the remaining questions on his marriage?

So, altogether a good start to this change of direction from Trevor – and it’s heartening to see the trademark black lab make his way into this book!!

Occasionally I like a cosy mystery and occasionally I love a cosy mystery and this one I loved. It’s a delightful murder mystery, the first in a new series (Armstrong and Oscar Mysteries), set in the countryside near Florence. Plenty of humour and a great story featuring retired DCI Dan Armstrong and Oscar, a black Labrador puppy who greets Dan by pushing him into the swimming pool.

Briefly, Armstrong has been given a present by his former colleagues, a 14 day writers course in Italy. On arrival however, he discovers the course is about erotic writing! He is joined by two septuagenarian ladies and a mysterious collection of others. Within about 24 hours the loud mouthed and offensive owner of the villa is found dead and Armstrong is asked by the local police detective to help. The only witness to the murder appears to be Oscar!

Despite the title of the art course there is nothing in the book to offend and lots to like including the amazing descriptions of Florence and the Tuscany countryside as well as the delicious sounding food. Definitely makes me want to visit! A very enjoyable closed room mystery with a large cast of suspects, lots of twists and turns and a great conclusion. Loved it. Bring on book 2.

Murder in Tuscany by T.A. Williams is an enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery, set in Tuscany. It boasts an atmospheric scene-setting, and compelling characterisation. It's twisty, page-turning, playful at times, and wholly satisfying.

A delectable, intricately plotted piece of escapism. Mystery and suspence are peppered with humour, and plot twists.

This has got to be my favourite new series
I absolutely loved the descriptions of food and location (I love Italy, what can I say?) and I savoured every page. The mystery was also good and not too predictable.
The biggest surprise was realising that my home country Sri Lanka is mentioned and plays a role in the plot!
I will definitely read the next book when it is published.

Retired DCI Dan Armstrong has been given a treat
A fortnight's holiday in a writers' retreat.
A course to help him complete his own book
But into the small print did his colleagues really not look?

Dan never anticipated that on the course there'd be a killer
Changing the genre from erotica to thriller.
He can't resist joining in the investigation into the crime
But can he help catch the perpetrator in time?

It feels like you're there, in Tuscany, visiting each scene,
Tasting the delicious meals, deciphering what the clues mean.
The characters start to feel like folks you really know
The twists and turns keep you guessing as through the story you go.

What a brilliant cosy murder mystery this proved to be
The first in a new series - great news to me!
By an author who usually writes brilliant romance
But is now also giving this genre a chance.

With lots of possibilities, new friends and Oscar, too,
An intriguing cosy mystery I highly recommend to you.
I just have to say that one character is nothing like me
Even though we have the same first name, I hope you agree!

For my complementary copy of this book I give a huge thank you.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review

There are a few new pairings at the moment in the book world, and the one of T A Williams, someone who writes beautiful and warm chick lit set in stunning locations, was always going to be a match for this, a cozy murder mystery. We meet retired DCI Dan Armstrong as he arrives at a writing retreat in the beauty of Tuscany. He's been sent on it as a retirement present/ prank by his force and isn't quite sure he should be there. I warmed to Dan straight away, and was intrigued by the repertoire of characters. First I wondered who was going to 'get it' (be murdered), and then I wondered about each of the characters, my decisions jumping as we went. I was truly there and when the reveal came was very much surprised and then thrilled to get an ending that was very tv like (I used to live for Inspector Wexford, Morse, Midsomer Murders etc and the ending here very much reminded me of it, totally cinematic!)

I'll admit I was so taken with this book I would easily have read in one go (but you know, kids, work etc etc;)) and will very much be following the new TA Williams direction and I have one or two people I will be buying it for come Christmas time and may consider it should I find it on audio for Mum to listen to!

Very much recommended. Sooo recommended in fact! Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for the book in return for an honest review.

Rating: 5/5

I've been a long time fan of Trevor Williams' books, so could not resist this new series!

Newly retired Detective Chief Inspector Dan Armstrong is looking forward to pastures new but first he needs to attend the writing seminar given to him by former colleagues as a retirement gift - a creative writing course set in Tuscany at the home of a renowned author. With his marriage hanging in the balance, he welcomes this time to focus on himself and plan his future. No sooner has the course began than a murder occurs; Dan finds himself quickly coming out of retirement to assist the local police with their enquiries.

There is a trademark Labrador in each one of this author's tales and this time round he's called Oscar and has all the traits the breed is known for. I love when the dog pops up in - in fact, I look for it! As always, this is a beautifully written tale with a fine cast of characters. I'm more used to reading romances from T A Williams but, trust me, he pens a cracking mystery with lots going on. No lack of suspects kept me on my toes all the way through to a very satisfying conclusion and sets the scene nicely for more in this series. I can't wait!
Highly enjoyable and thoroughly engrossing, this one commands a full five stars and my highest recommendation.

My thanks to the publisher for my copy via NetGalley; this is - as always - my honest, original and unbiased review.

It's not easy to switch from rom-com to cozy mystery even if there's some common tropes.
This is an example of a successful change, the highly entertaining and gripping start of a new cozy series.
I liked Dan Armstrong, a likeable and fleshed out characters, had a lot of fun in reading his reactions to discovering what was the course was about.
Oscar the dog is one of my favorite characters but I found most of them likeable.
The mystery is solid and well developed. There's no plot hole, there's plenty of surprises and it kept me guessing. I liked the relationship with the Italian police and enjoyed the investigation.
T.A. Williams should be paid by the Tuscany Tourist Board as the descriptions of the places made me wish I was there. The descriptions of the food are mouthwatering and I was left craving crostini and bruschetta.
An enjoyable cozy mystery and I hope to read the next in this series soon. This one is highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

A retired detective, a writing retreat, Tuscan countryside and a loveable labrador are the perfect ingredients for a new cosy mystery, especially when you add in quirky characters and closed-room murder. The mystery has many twists, the suspects are numerous, and the detective is likeable and skilful.

I love the setting and the way the mystery unfolds with clues and false leads. The voice of the main protagonist Armstrong is believable, and the friendships created promise this will be an engaging series. It's an enjoyable read.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

An enjoyable read. DCI Armstrong is a believable protagonist surrounded with a cast of characters straight out of an Agatha Christie novel.
The setting of Tuscany adds to the book, bringing back fond memories of my travels there. My complaint is calling gelato “ice cream’ and the Italian detective’s last name of Pisano. So was he from Pisa? It just seem a bit stereotypical.
I would read another of this author’s books set in Tuscany.

Murder in Tuscany is a sun-drenched tale of an erotic writer's retreat marred by the murder of the alleged 'bestselling' author running the event.

Retired DCI Dan Armstrong, dreaming of writing that bestseller, has been set up by his 'mates' in the police force with the unusual retirement gift of a 2-week writing course in Tuscany. The only catch is that it's for writing erotic fiction when Dan dreams of writing historical fiction about the Medici. What follows is a gentle and engaging tale of writers, would-be-writers, and course leaders, all mixed up with a touch of intrigue, and then, at about 30% through the book, the murder, which Dan ends up feeling honour-bound to help solve, and not just because his Italian counterpart in the police is missing his English speaking deputy. And it is quite a strange murder when the true facts slowly start to reveal themselves.

This is a tale that will amuse writers, but there's also more than enough in here for fans of cosy mysteries. There's a lot of eating and descriptions of Italian food as Dan begins to fall in love with the place so that by the end of the book, the soon-to-be-divorced ex-police inspector is making some big changes in his life.

Much of Murder in Tuscany is certainly setting up this character and place for future investigations, but the story still has the very much 'closed-room' feel of a country house murder mystery, with some surprisingly modern takes.

I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in Tuscany, and I look forward to reading more in the series.

My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my review copy.

“Murder in Tuscany” is a delightful cozy mystery filled with the requisite twists and turns, but also a good deal of humor. Dan Armstrong is a recently retired police detective who arrives from London to spend two weeks at a Tuscan villa for a creative writing course—a gift from his colleagues. From page one it is apparent that Dan has ended up in a situation that he is not entirely comfortable in…but it is Tuscany so he plunges in! Part of the book’s charm is the wonderful setting, complete with descriptions of the amazing food, marvelous history, and gorgeous scenery. I also loved that Dan soon meets an energetic dog who quickly becomes both a faithful companion and a key component of the story. The mystery is just complex enough to allow for a thorough examination of all of the suspects—the participants in the course and inhabitants of the villa—and they are a fascinating bunch. I was thrilled to learn that this is the first in a planned series and I look forward to more adventures of Dan Armstrong and his dog Oscar. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book; I highly recommend it to readers who love mysteries and Italy!

Retired DCI Dan Armstrong finds himself in Tuscany at a writers retreat. Days into the course there’s a murder with 11 possible suspects. Dan leaves his pen behind and returns to investigating to solve the crime.

A fantastic start to a new series from T.A.Williams. I loved the slower pace of the story that reflects the area. Amazing descriptions that transport you to Tuscany and lot of twists and turns in the plot. Looking forward to reading more in this series.