The Venice Murders

A Flora Steele Mystery, Book 11

By: Merryn Allingham

Narrated by: Charlie Norfolk

Amateur detective and bookshop owner Flora Steele and her dashing new husband Jack Carrington are finally embarking on the honeymoon of a lifetime. But will gorgeous gondola rides be ruined by their most heart-stopping case ever?

Venice, 1959: As Flora and Jack step onto the beautiful, historic streets of Venice, they vow to put sleuthing aside to finally enjoy their honeymoon. But on their very first sun-soaked morning, whilst enjoying sparkling wine and mouthwatering pastries, they’re interrupted when hotel receptionist, Franco Mancini, is discovered floating face-down in the Grand Canal.

Remembering poor Franco’s kind demeanour when they checked into the Cipriani Hotel, Flora quickly realises her honeymoon phase is over: she must solve the case. She saw a hot-headed restaurant owner arguing with Franco the night he died. Could their mysterious argument have gone too far? Or could it have been Franco’s jilted ex-fiancée Bianca, who acted so coldly at news of his death? Was it a crime of passion that sent him tumbling into the waters?

When Flora learns from a priest that a priceless painting has disappeared from his church along with his elderly housekeeper, she begins to marry together the clues that will lead her to a dangerous family that will stop at nothing to get their revenge. Will Flora and Jack crack the case before the killer claims another victim? Or will it be ‘death do us part’ for this crime-solving couple?

A completely gripping and totally charming cozy murder mystery novel, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and J.R. Ellis!

©2025 Merryn Allingham (P)2025 Bookouture, an imprint of Storyfire Ltd.

Adventures in Venice

I love Jack & Flora - they set out for a relaxing honeymoon and once again haphazardly fall into crime. Flora is eternally questioning and Jack always loyal and supportive.

Perfect cozy read

This series has turned out to be more enjoyable than I expected. Fun twists, good characters, and great continuity across the books.

Venice!

As always this book sailed along with delicious meals and colorful characters. Surprisingly complex story.

My favorite in this series

I liked so much in this book—especially the loving familiar characters in a setting vivdly described. The addition of Italian phrases and delicious food that you can taste was great fun. I loved the way the couple tried to wander Venice and the islands as we all would like to do on a vacation but obligations to friends and family kept intruding into their excursions. How many long anticipated vacations are like that? Yes, there were mysteries to be solved and dangers to be escaped but The Venice Murders offers so much more!! I must read this one again!