Books set in Italy for thriller and mystery lovers

Italy is a popular tourist destination that’s been inspiring people for centuries. It has been featured in many films and television shows and used as a setting for many best-selling novels. From romantic tales, war-inspired intrigues, and historical fiction to the dark underworld of murder and the Mafia, there is no shortage of literary fiction and nonfiction set in Italy.

While many tales about or set in Italy focus on romances, I thought it would be great to switch the focus here to mysteries and thrillers. Italy is a great setting for a romantic tale, but it’s also ideal for mysteries and thrillers. In this post, I cover some of my favourite books set in Italy that thrillers and mystery lovers will enjoy. So, if you’re looking for a great read on your next vacation.

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Books set in Italy

Below, I’ve compiled a list of my favourite thrillers and mysteries set in Italy. Some authors have published several books set in Italy. Instead of listing them all, I decided to list the ones I enjoyed the most.

Angels and Demons by Dan Brown

Setting: Rome, Vatican City

Robert Langdon, a world-renowned iconology professor, is summoned to a Swiss research facility to analyze a mysterious symbol branded on a murdered physicist’s chest. It’s an ancient symbol of the secret brotherhood known as the Illuminati, bent on destroying the Catholic Church.

With the help of the dead physicist’s daughter, a mysterious Italian scientist named Vittoria, Langdon must go to Vatican City to prevent an unstoppable time bomb from going off as the conclave to elect a new pope has just begun. Their frantic hunt through ancient crypts, catacombs and deserted cathedrals follows a 400-year-old trail of ancient symbols that snakes across Rome.

“Angels and Demons” is a page-turning thriller by Dan Brown, the author of “The Da Vinci Code.” This novel offers a gripping narrative set against Rome’s historical and religious backdrop, making it a must-read for fans of historical books and mystery thrillers.

The House by The Sea by Louise Douglas

Setting: Sicily

When her former mother-in-law, Anna DeLuca, dies, Edie and her ex-husband Joe inherit an abandoned villa in Sicily. Edie, who blames Anna for a tragedy that destroyed their lives over a decade ago, isn’t thrilled to reunite with her ex and sees the move as Anna’s meddling attempt to bring them together.

Edie and Joe are eager to settle matters with the house and return to their lives. As Anna’s secrets start to unravel, it becomes clear that someone else also wants them gone. The experience forces them to face the past and who they used to be before they can move on.

“The House by the Sea” by Louise Douglas is a tale of love, betrayal, jealousy, and mysteries that hide in every family history. Set in a dreamy setting on the island of Sicily, this novel captures the essence of Southern Italy, with its beautiful country landscapes and deep-rooted family secrets.

The Dark Angel by Elly Griffiths

Setting: Rural Italy

When a former colleague, an Italian archaeologist Angelo Morelli, contacts Dr. Ruth Galloway asking for help, she jumps at the opportunity to travel to a sleepy medieval town in Italy. Ruth, a forensic archaeologist, is looking forward to helping him identify old bones and decides to make this a working holiday. She brings along her daughter Kate, unaware of the dangers lurking around them.

As Ruth and the crew work on the dig, everything becomes chaotic, and pretty soon, there is a murder. Old secrets don’t always stay buried, no matter how hard some try to keep them that way. Even in picturesque little Italian towns with long histories and murky pasts. “The Dark Angel” is the 10th installment in the Ruth Galloway novels and offers an escape to the Italian countryside. It is perfect for readers who love a blend of archaeology and mystery set in a region rich with history.

Acqua Alta by Donna Leon

Setting: Venice

During the annual acqua alta, an event during which the tides from the Adriatic Ocean flow into Venice, flooding the city and causing hazardous conditions, an American archaeologist, Brett, is viciously attacked in her apartment. The assailants warned her against meeting with the director of one of Venice’s famous art museums.

Local detective Commissario Guido Brunetti learns of his friend’s attack and is eventually assigned to investigate. When the dead body of the museum director is found days later, Brunetti realizes the two cases are connected. Now, he must call in all the favours at various government agencies to figure out what’s going on and why. Acqua Alta” is Donna Leon’s fifth Commissario Guido Brunetti mystery, set in beautiful Venice. This book is an excellent read for those who enjoy crime novels set against the backdrop of one of Italy’s most iconic cities.

Ashes to Ashes, Diamonds to Dust by Pamela Allegretto

Setting: Venice

Carla Romano comes to Venice to scatter her best friend’s ashes in the Grand Canal as per her wishes. The place has a special significance for both women. Things quickly spiral out of control, and Carla soon finds a slew of bad guys on her trail. To complicate things further, Carla finds herself in the centre of a search for missing diamonds.

She meets the challenges thrown at her with a sense of humour as she tries to determine if she can trust anyone to complete her mission. With bad guys and various colourful characters around her, Carla must figure out the truth with the clock ticking.

“Ashes to Ashes, Diamonds to Dust” by Pamela Allegretto is a fun and fast-paced mystery and a romp through the streets of Venice. This novel blends humour and suspense, making it a delightful addition to any mystery lover’s collection.

A Quiet Death in Italy by Tom Benjamin

Setting: Bologna

Daniel Leicester is a British PI who moves to Italy with his daughter after the death of his wife. He lives with his wife’s family and works with his father-in-law, a former police chief, and brother-in-law at the family-owned Faidate Investigations agency.

When the body of radical political activist Paulo Solitudine is found in Bologna’s underground canal system, many locals suspect he was killed by police. When Leicester gets a call from the dead man’s lover, he finds himself following a murky trail of radicalism, betrayal and corruption that started in the 1970s and continues in the heart of the present-day political establishment.

“A Quiet Death in Italy” by Tom Benjamin will transport you to Bologna, the less travelled ancient and mysterious Italian city. This book delves deep into Italy’s political history, making it a compelling read for fans of historical and political thrillers.

Murder in Chianti by Camilla Trinchieri

Setting: Tuscany

A former NYPD homicide detective, Nico Doyle, moves to his late wife’s hometown of Gravigna in the region of Chianti. As he mourns for his wife and tries to find peace, he finds solace in her family and cooking at the family-owned restaurant. One morning, after hearing a gunshot, he comes across a dead body near his house in the woods.

Although he wants nothing to do with the murder, Nico gets pulled into the investigation by the lead investigator, Salvatore Perillo. The murdered man had ties to the village and the past. His death brings out old rumours and long-hidden secrets. Nico must dig up all the secrets of all who knew the victim, including his in-laws. “Murder in Chianti” by Camilla Trinchieri will make you long for Italian food and the rolling hills of Tuscany. This novel offers a rich depiction of life in Northern Italy, blending mystery with the charm of Italian culture and cuisine.

The Monster of Florence by Douglas Preston and Mario Spezi

Setting: Florence

This true crime story investigates the infamous serial killer who terrorized Florence for over two decades. The Monster of Florence, also known as “Il Mostro,” murdered several couples in the countryside surrounding Florence between 1968 and 1985. Douglas Preston, an American author, and Mario Spezi, an Italian journalist, delve into the chilling details of these crimes and the subsequent investigations.

Preston and Spezi provide an in-depth look at the bungled police investigations, conspiracy theories, and the profound impact these murders had on the local community. This book offers a gripping and sometimes terrifying account of real-life events, making it a must-read for true crime enthusiasts. The authors’ detailed narrative and personal insights add a unique and compelling perspective on one of Italy’s most notorious criminal cases. If you’re into true crime but make it Italy, this book is for you.

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco

Setting: Northern Italy

Set in a Benedictine monastery in Northern Italy during the Middle Ages, “The Name of the Rose” follows Brother William of Baskerville as he investigates a series of mysterious deaths. The story is set against the backdrop of the 14th century, a time of great intellectual and religious turmoil.

Brother William, accompanied by his novice Adso of Melk, uses his sharp intellect and deductive skills to unravel the secrets hidden within the monastery’s walls. The novel explores themes of faith, heresy, and the power of knowledge. Umberto Eco’s rich, atmospheric writing brings the period to life, offering readers a deep dive into Renaissance Italy. This classic novel blends historical fiction and mystery, providing a thought-provoking and engaging read.

The Shape of Water by Andrea Camilleri

Setting: Sicily

This is the first book in the Commissario Salvo Montalbano series, set in the fictional town of Vigàta in Sicily. Inspector Montalbano is a shrewd and perceptive detective who navigates the complex world of Sicilian politics and crime with a mix of cunning and humour.

In “The Shape of Water,” Montalbano investigates the death of a prominent engineer whose body is found in a compromising position. As he delves deeper, Montalbano uncovers a web of corruption and deceit. Andrea Camilleri’s vivid descriptions of Sicilian life and culture, combined with Montalbano’s sharp wit and moral integrity, make this series a captivating and enjoyable read. The book offers a unique glimpse into Southern Italy, with its rich traditions and contemporary challenges.

Carte Blanche by Carlo Lucarelli

Setting: Bologna

Set in Bologna during the final days of World War II, “Carte Blanche” follows Detective Commissario De Luca as he investigates a murder that leads him into a web of political intrigue and danger. The story takes place in April 1945, a time of great upheaval as Italy transitions from Fascist rule to liberation.

De Luca, known for his unwavering dedication to justice, must navigate the treacherous waters of wartime politics while staying true to his principles. With its complex social and political dynamics, Carlo Lucarelli’s portrayal of post-war Italy provides a gripping backdrop for this historical mystery. “Carte Blanche” is a compelling read for fans of historical fiction and crime novels. It offers an intense and atmospheric journey through a pivotal moment in Italian history.

The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith

Setting: Various locations in Italy, including Rome and Venice

Tom Ripley is a young man struggling to make ends meet in New York City. Ripley is approached by the wealthy shipping magnate Herbert Greenleaf to travel to Italy and persuade his son, Dickie Greenleaf, to return home. Seeing an opportunity for a better life, Tom agrees and sets off for Italy.

Upon arrival, Tom becomes enamoured with Dickie’s lavish lifestyle and begins to covet it for himself. As he integrates into Dickie’s world, Tom’s envy and ambition lead him down a dark path. The story takes a sinister turn as Tom resorts to murder and deception to assume Dickie’s identity. Patricia Highsmith’s masterful storytelling and psychological depth make “The Talented Mr. Ripley” a compelling and suspenseful read.

Highsmith’s depiction of Italy’s picturesque settings, from the sunny beaches of the Italian Riviera to the historic streets of Rome and Venice, starkly contrasts Tom Ripley’s dark and manipulative nature. This novel is a classic in the psychological thriller genre. It offers a fascinating exploration of identity, morality, and the lengths one will go to achieve their desires.

Check out our podcast to hear our take on the show Mr. Ripley’s portrayal of the Amalfi Coast and other parts of Italy.

Death in the Dolomites by David P. Wagner

Setting: Dolomites

“Death in the Dolomites” is the second book in David P. Wagner’s Rick Montoya Italian Mysteries series. The novel follows Rick Montoya, an American translator and amateur sleuth, as he takes a break from his work in Rome to enjoy a skiing vacation in the picturesque Dolomites. However, his holiday is cut short when a body is discovered in the snow.

The local police enlist Rick’s help to navigate the intricate web of relationships and secrets in the small mountain community. As Rick delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers long-buried tensions and rivalries that lead him to a surprising conclusion. Wagner’s evocative descriptions of the stunning alpine landscape and his insightful portrayal of Italian culture and cuisine add depth and authenticity to the story. “Death in the Dolomites” is a compelling mystery that transports readers to the breathtaking and serene setting of Northern Italy.

Paganini’s Ghost by Paul Adam

Setting: Cremona

“Paganini’s Ghost” is a captivating mystery set in Cremona, a city renowned for its rich musical heritage and legendary violin makers. Gianni Castiglione is a skilled luthier, who becomes involved in a perplexing case when a world-famous violinist is murdered after a concert featuring Niccolò Paganini’s violin, Il Cannone.

As Gianni teams up with Detective Antonio Guastafeste to solve the crime, they uncover a trail of intrigue that leads back to Paganini himself. The story combines historical facts about the enigmatic composer with a modern-day murder mystery, creating a richly layered narrative.

Adam’s meticulous attention to detail and passion for music shines through, offering readers an immersive experience of classical music and the art of violin making. Paganini’s Ghost is a must-read for mystery lovers and music enthusiasts alike, combining suspense, history, and the timeless allure of Cremona.

A Comedy of Terrors by Lindsey Davis

Setting: Ancient Rome

In contrast to other mystery novels on this list, “A Comedy of Terrors” is set in Ancient Rome at the onset of the Saturnalia festival. Flavia Albia is a young woman and an investigator who finds herself in the midst of domestic chaos—overexcited children, troublesome guests and her magistrate husband, Tiberius, distracted by local conflicts.

With no one seeking her investigative services during the holiday, Flavia is initially resigned to dealing with her own family’s stress. However, as the threat from the gang intensifies, even encroaching upon her home, she and Tiberius must tackle the danger themselves. Due to the festivities, the law and order are on hold, making their task even more daunting.

As the deadly menace threatens, Flavia and Tiberius must navigate a perilous path to ensure that the Undying Sun survives the winter solstice and that criminal darkness does not descend upon Rome. “A Comedy of Terrors” provides a fascinating glimpse into the everyday life and customs of ancient Rome, making it a delightful read for fans of historical mysteries and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Roman history.

Final words on books set in Italy 

I hope you enjoyed this selection of books set in Italy – mystery and thriller editions. Italy’s rich history, diverse culture and stunning landscapes make it a unique and captivating backdrop for these stories. As I find more great reads in this genre, I’ll add them here.

Italy’s allure continues to inspire writers and captivate readers. Whether you’re drawn to the ancient ruins of Rome, the romantic canals of Venice, or the rolling hills of Tuscany, there’s a mystery waiting for you in every corner of this beautiful country.