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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Felicia Bates

Leaving No Traces: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 5)Leaving No Traces: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

PJ Mann is a new author to me having never read any of the previous books in this series. My genre of choice is mystery or thriller so after reading the synopsis of Leaving No Traces I was eager to see if this was a series I could find myself getting into after. I really did like this book, I felt that it really hit the ground running from the very beginning with twisty unraveling until the end. I like that the book itself wasn’t too long, about 200 pages start to finish with a sneak peek of what is to come.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Amanda Swindle

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets they Hide is book two in the five book Commissario Scala Mystery set. I have only read book four in this set so far, so these books can be read as standalone or out of order. Reading them in order will most likely help with understanding character development, and I do recommend reading them all. A young man is found dead in a cemetery with a note that talks about secrets and hints that their may be other victims. Now Detective Scala must find out who this mystery killer is before any other bodies show up. As a no-nonsense detective, Scala is invested in making sure this murderer is found and brought to justice. What is the murderer after and why did he kill this man? Are the other murders linked to this one, and if so what is the connection? The Secrets they Hide is full of mystery, drama, suspense and plot twists. The author has a knack for setting the scene with very descriptive and vivid wording, and the character building is spot on. I am becoming more and more intrigued with the Scala mysteries and intend to read the rest of the series.

Reviewed by @zoltrixes

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Carla Clemmons

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great thriller read with lots of plot twists! I was not expecting all the twists and turns in this story. Detective Scala has to use his instincts to solve these murders. I did not realize this was the second book in this series until after I had already started the book and I will say it was not needed to read the first. I am sure you miss some character background so I will be reading the first one. I enjoyed the writing style and this book made for a quick read since I was anxious to know what happened next. Detective Scala has so much compassion for his victims that I feel it makes him a better detective. There were plenty of twists and turns in the plot to keep me wanting more. I am excited to read the rest of the books in the series with Detective Scala. If you are looking for a good mystery/thriller then I definitely recommend picking up this series!

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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Rayne East

Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gripping
This suspenseful thriller will have you guessing til the end. The fifth book in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome series, Leaving No Traces is an intense, action- packed murder mystery. With twists and turns at every corner, there are a lot of layers to the story. This was a race against time, intriguing story that suspense lovers would enjoy. Highly recommend.

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Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala Mystery Series Book #5) by P.J. Mann – Review by Angela Hayes

Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

When he arrived at the car, he regretted not having had coffee. Lunch had been plentiful, and something to help him with digestion would have been appropriate. “Well, if this turns out to be a murder, soon I won’t even remember what a full belly feels like,” he said, looking at his belly. “Prepare yourself, my friend. This could be the beginning of another fasting period.”

Something I have in common with Scala- a love of coffee, food, and a great mystery.
Leaving No Traces is the fifth intriguing instalment in the Commissario Scala Mystery series by P.J. Mann. I am really enjoying following Scala along on each of his investigations, and this one didn’t disappoint.
It’s another engrossing and well-woven crime & investigation mystery, a bit of a whodunnit that starts with a murder that leads Detective Scala into a complex case that has him pitted against a cold-hearted villain. This cat and mouse game results in a story that has plenty of tension, secrets, lies, corruption, danger, high-stakes, action, police procedures, dramatic developments, and where Scala (and us) are thrust into a race against time to solve the case before it’s too late. Again, Ms. Mann doesn’t disappoint, delivering a suspenseful story.
Looking forward to more Commissario Scala mysteries.
Happy reading…

Thank you, P.J. Mann!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Leaving No Traces: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 5)Leaving No Traces: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites. I enjoy her writing style and attention to details that bring her stories to life before your eyes. I enjoyed the suspense and the twist and turns that had me sitting on the edge of my seat. This is a story about a murderer that only leaves a car and blood behind to figure out this mystery. Detective Scala has a determination like no other to figure this case out. I enjoyed the characters in this story and what they added to the entertainment value of the story. I found this book to be fast paced and hard to put down. A story that suspense will keep you coming back for more. I highly recommend this book and to check out the other books in this series

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Review by @bjwagner

Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Another fantastic book by this author and gave me everything that I love full of crime, mystery, suspense, deceit, lies and the tense moments I had that left me at the edge of my seat trying to see what happens next.

Detective Scala is back…..but this time he must put the puzzle pieces together on a missing woman, leaving behind her vehicle with evidence of blood at a gas station. Trying to figure out the whole who done it, brings Detective Scala in parts unknown as he digs deeper…..but will Detective Scala be able to solve this puzzling mystery while trying to protect a witness who is key and twists and turns on every level?

I highly recommend these books…they really keep you engaged and intrigued…..questioning at every turn of the page what will happen next.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This is my first book that I have read from this author and I totally loved it. This is book 2 in the series and it could be read as a standalone…and I am definitely wanting to circle back on the beginning of the series, but I did not feel like I missed anything by reading this book first.

Detective Maurizio Scala is on a manhunt, trying to figure out whom murdered a young man and leaving his body in a cemetery. This mystery man is also leaving notes behind…poetic in sorts… possibly more bodies may be piling up…..revenge. Will Detective Scala be able to stop this murderer with a poetic mind before it is to late and more murders are ensued?

This book is a great crime, drama, suspense, corruption, secrets, lies and full of twisty turns as I tried to piece together the who’s who in connecting all the dots to the end. Very highly recommended and looking forward to reading more from this author.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Julie Johnson

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first read by this author and I’m looking forward to reading more by her! This is the second book in a series but was easily read as a standalone. I’m going to go back and read the first book in this series though!

This book held me from the beginning and didn’t let up until the end. It’s a riveting police procedural featuring a setting in Rome. What could be more interesting than a murder in a place known for their love? Just when you think you might have “whodunit” figured out, more plot twists and turns come up that will have you on the edge of your seat until the end.

Very enjoyable read!

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Melissa Fink

https://www.amazon.com/review/R2SSY1II58FNXG/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets They Hide is the second book in this series. The story takes place in a beautiful place in Rome. What I love most about this book is the twist and turns that it had. You can try to predict what’s going to happen and then the author tricks you and a twist comes. The plot of the story was amazing. This was a page turner and had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what happened next. I will definitely be reading more books by this author.

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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome series. Although it is not essential to read the rest of the series to understand what is happening, I would recommend doing so to understand characters and background better.

I enjoy the author’s descriptive writing and their ability to paint a clear picture of what’s happening and the characters within the scenes.

Scala is a determined character, not taking the easy option by accepting the convenient answers. He is determined to find the truth, even when the case twists and turns as much as this one – nothing is what he expects.

I enjoyed the plot and where the story led in this instalment. There were moments which surprised me, moments which tugged on my emotions but there was never a dull moment.

I’m enjoying reading this series, and would recommend those who enjoy a good mystery book to give this a try.

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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jenni Bishop

Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Leaving No Traces is the fifth book in the A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome crime series. Even though this book is part of a series, you can read it just as easily as a standalone novel.
The story is well paced with lots of tension, suspense, and mystery. There are realistic interactions between the characters some likeable and some not. The plot and world building are intriguing as we journey along with Detective Scala and others in solving this latest murder mystery.
It is easy to become invested in the outcome of the story with its drama that is entertaining and interesting.
Detective Scala must tread carefully when trying to wade through another web of deceit and corruption. What he finds just leads him to the underbelly of a world that criminals reside. A place where lives mean nothing.
His goal is to catch the killer, protect a key witness and keep himself alive doing so.
If you like whodunnits with ruthless villains, then you will enjoy this tale by P. J. Mann.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Kerry Baker

Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is another great story I a brilliant series. I was caught up in the mystery right from the start and had to see how things would play out. It was an exciting story, full of twists and turns. I never quite knew where it was going to go next.
This is the only series I have read by this author but it ilhad been a great way to become familiar with their work. I am.really enjoying their writing style and how fast paced and full on each book seems to be. I will certainly be reading more from them in the future.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Megan Conley

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 2nd book in the series; however, you can read it as a stand alone…the only thing you are missing out on is really getting to know Detective Scala (but you get that in this book…you just don’t have it from the beginning). I love a good mystery thriller and P.J. Mann did not disappoint with this one. The dual perspectives between Detective Scala and the killer was *chef’s kiss* and probably my favorite part about the entire book (I love a good dual perspective). I really like Mann’s writing style and look forward to reading more.

Reviewed by @meggs1717

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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Shelly Kittell

Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Detective Scala reminds me of a dog going after a bone. He will go after ever fact. He gets what seems like a straightforward case. Nope, nothing is as it seems. This is another fantastic mystery from this author that has us following Detective Scala as hee tries to find out who the murderer is. The twists and turns will surprise you. I love the writing of this author. She fascinates me with the details and the character personalities. The plots are always just the right style that you are pulled in from the start. Another winner that you should read.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Angela Shirley

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Detective Scala has received a mysterious note within his car, as he reads he discovers that not all maybe well and that he maybe caught up in something big. As the weeks go on nothing major happens until one night he is called to the cemetery as a body of a young man is discovered.

As he investigates the young man’s death he then unravels connections with seemingly unrelated murders pushing it further into lines of deceit and corruption. As him and his team investigate further dark secrets are discovered and will he be able to stop this killer before another body is found.

This the first book I have read by this author and what a start to my journey. The character of Maurizio Scala was sharp and non nonsense which was refreshing to read and brilliant to follow, with the introduction of the team and the secondary characters it had you engrossed all the way through.

Although this is the second book in the series I felt comfortable reading this as a stand alone story and did not loss anything in the back story or history. I loved the dual prospective of the story where you got to see inside the killers mind as well as the police which made the thrilling twists and turns even more exciting.

I would really like to go back and read the first book and hopefully more moving forward.

The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60268637-the-secrets-they-hide” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1643691349l/60268637._SY160_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60268637-the-secrets-they-hide”>The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2)</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22194980.P_J_Mann”>P J Mann</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5737554667″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Detective Scala is back and up to his neck in mystery of whodunit. After finding a note attached to a deceased young man in the cemetary he is determined to find out every last one of the dark secrets mentioned. How deep does the corruption go? What makes this interesting is that the unsub seems to be a poet. The poetic notes have the clues hidden to help the dogged detective solve the crime. The author did a great job of engaging the reader from the beginning and keeping them engaged until the end. I enjoyed going along for the ride with Detective Scala and look forward to solving more mysteries.
<br/><br/>
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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann

~🔍~👣~ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~ 🔍~👣~
Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann
Genre – Crime
Cover Designer – Getcovers

Detective Maurizio Scala doesn’t easily give up on a case. When a young woman’s car is discovered abandoned at a service station, blood splatters on the driver’s seat, the detective is determined to unravel the mystery and bring her killer to justice. But when a second murder emerges, it becomes clear that the case is far from straightforward.

As Scala delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption. With the mafia’s influence lurking at every turn, the stakes have never been higher. As the detective races against the clock to catch the killer, he must also protect a key witness whose life hangs in the balance.

Will Scala be able to crack the case before it’s too late, or will the shadows of the underworld consume him? Find out in this gripping tale of murder, betrayal, and justice.

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann

Paula J. Mann lives a double life. She is a geologist by day and a novelist by night. She’s best known for writing mysteries and thrillers.

She also experimented writing historical fiction, and paranormal suspense.

She loves traveling and shares her experiences on her blog.

Author Interview with P.J. Mann

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Santana Hicks

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A young man is found dead in a cemetery with a note hinting towards a dark secret from the past. Detective Scala is instantly intrigued and immediately dives into the case. In the note, the killer used plural words when describing victims which means they may be dealing with a serial killer. When another body shows up and the two are not connected in any way, Scala knows then that he has his work cut out for him if he wants to stop the murderer from killing more.

Detective Scala and his team are on a mission and nothing will stop them from getting to the bottom of this case. Something must connect the bodies, they just have to turn to the past to find it.

This book is technically the second in the series but was fine for reading as a stand-alone. I had no problem following along. The book is fast paced with lots of twists and turns and people involved. The author did a very good job keeping you invested in the plot. I also liked how the author threw in some POV of the murderer to help explain his reasoning behind everything. My only downside, and this is a personal opinion, is that I could not for the love of me like Detective Scala. I found him cold with not much depth to him at all. When I read a book, I like to imagine myself as the main character and become immersed into the storyline and it was hard to do with Scala. I would have preferred to have more background and emotions from the main character. Again, this is personal preference. I loved the plot and recommend this book for anyone who likes a plot heavy, fast paced murder mystery!

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Kerry Carr

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Commissario Scala Mystery series. Even though it is part of a series they can be read as a standalone read however I think it helps you understand the characters better if you read them from the beginning. However if you don’t it won’t take anything away from this story which is a great murder mystery. This book had me gripped from the beginning and didn’t let go until the end. This is a crime story set in Rome which was different. When Inspector Scala finds a note in his car he knows something is going on and when 2 weeks later a dead body turns up with another note he realises its a race against time before the murderer strikes again.
This is a fast paced murder mystery, full of twists and turns, secrets and lies and so much confusions and peoples dark pasts that you have no clue who is behind the crimes. With police procedures, drama and corruption the author drags you into this world and you feel like you are solving the case alone with the Inspector.
I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us next.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Mary Espinoza

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Secrets They Hide: An Italian Murder Mystery is the second book in series…and the author did not disappoint! P.J. Mann sets the mystery in Rome…and I mean you should know that most great mystery stories come from Rome…or at least that’s my opinion! This is my first read by P.J. Mann, and I will definitely be going back and reading the first book in the series. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend reading the first book just to get the feel of Detective Scala, and all of his quirks. Detective Scala has found himself in a unique predicament on trying to solve a recent murder mystery, and he will stop at nothing to solve the case! Detective Scala is stubborn in every aspect of his life, from the way he deals with his family to the way he eats his sandwiches! I won’t say much more because I don’t want to give away too much, but I will say I don’t think you will be disappointed!
The writing style kept me reading nonstop until the end, I really enjoyed the detail that P.J. put into the storyline and development of the characters. I truly look forward to reading more from this author soon!

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Mary Espinoza, July 2023

The Secrets They Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Brandy Vaughn

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets they Hide is the second book in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome crime series. This book may be part of a series, but it reads easily as a standalone novel. This crime thriller has plenty of action, suspense, tension, with twists and turns to keep you turning the pages. I appreciate that this was based in Italy. It was interesting how another country solves crimes. I look forward to the next book!

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Christine Baranek

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets They Hide
By: P.J. Mann

This is an Inspector Scala Book. It is my first, but it most definitely won’t be my last. Inspector Scala is definitely an enjoyable main character who keeps the book exciting. In this book a cryptic message leads Inspector Scala to a series of murders and it is him that must find the killer. This is filled with twists and turns and it definitely kept me on my toes. I have to say that the highlight of this author is the dialogue. Every character has amazing banter back and forth. You are sucked into the dialogue and it is not hard to read at all. I definitely recommend reading this!

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets They Hide: An Italian Murder Mystery is the second book in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome and is a great read. This is my first book by this author, but I will return for more. Commissario Scala is stubborn and determined when put on a case. I won’t risk giving anything about the plot away because that is the worst, especially with a mystery. The book is set in the beautiful city of Rome, but there are dark secrets behind a recent murder. Will Detective Maurizio Scala be able to unravel the pieces of the puzzle?
I enjoyed reading about Scala and how he goes about processing the pieces of the puzzle left at the scene. I read a lot of mysteries and sometimes get disappointed by how formulaic the stories get. I was not disappointed by this one and will go back and read other books in this series. I was able to unravel the pieces before the end, but the writing kept me reading until the end. I definitely look forward to reading more from this author soon.

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The Secrets They Hide (Commissario Scala Mystery Series Book #2) by P.J. Mann – Review by Angela Hayes

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

The Secrets They Hide is the second book in the Commissario Scala Mystery series by P.J. Mann. Having read an Inspector Scala mystery before, I knew this would be another well-woven and suspenseful crime & investigation mystery- which is exactly what I found between the covers of this intriguing story. With murder, police procedure, action, gripping developments, drama, twists, secrets, tension, lies, corruption, and interesting characters, Ms. Mann doesn’t disappoint, delivering an engrossing story.
Another mystery is set in Rome, which definitely adds an extra element of interest to the whole story. Scala is drawn into another complex case when a mysterious message leads him to a series of murders. Time plays a factor, especially if he’s to unravel everything before the murderer strikes again.
Looking forward to more Commissario Scala mysteries.
Happy reading…

Thank you, P.J. Mann!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
I have only read one book by P.J. and enjoyed it so was happy to scoop this book up and start reading. The Secrets they Hide is the second book in this A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome crime series. This book may be part of a series, but it reads just as easily as a standalone novel.
Detective Maurizio Scala is back with a new case in the beautiful city of Rome, Italy. He finds himself tangled in a web of lies and deceit. A cryptic message leads him to a series of murders. It is not in his nature to give up even if it leads danger to his door.
The Secrets they Hide is a gripping murder mystery that is full of action, suspense, and a few twists and turns to keep you interested. It is fast paced with lots of tension and suspense and realistic interactions and banter between characters.
This whodunnit is well written and kept me intrigued throughout.
If you enjoy a crime story, you won’t be disappointed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gripping Italian murder mystery which had me hooked throughout. Set in Rome and Detective Maurizio Scala has sworn to protect its citizens and deliver justice to any victims of crimes. In this fast paced story Scala has to find and stop the killer of a young man found dead in a cemetery, before he becomes a victim himself. Along with the body a note was found which mentioned his dark secrets, and as the Detective digs deeper into the victim’s life he discovers a tangled web of lies and corruption. Scala’s investigation hits a breakthrough when other seemingly unconnected murders have a link to the latest one. Scala then needs to identify the killer before there are anymore victims. The storyline is full of drama and suspense, whilst the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. I liked the relatable Detective Scala, who as the main character really brought the story together. The descriptive narrative made the Italian setting come to life and I felt immersed in Scala’s world. An entertaining and engaging novel, and I look forward to future books featuring the Detective.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets They Hide is Book Two in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Series. It is a crime thriller that is set in Rome, Italy, and centers around the character of Detective Scala. When a body turns up dead in the cemetery it sends Scala into a world of corruption, and he discovers other unsolved mysteries could be connected to the man in the cemetery. When his family comes in harm’s way, he is determined to protect his family from a crazy psychopath who is intent on causing them harm. Detective Scala is smart, ruthless, and relentless in his pursuit of the person responsible for terrorizing his family. He does not back down from a challenge and continues to follow the clues until he solves the mystery. I loved how determined his character is and enjoyed trying to solve the mystery alongside him. He is a lovable character that I found myself rooting for in his quest for truth and justice. This book had action, suspense, drama, intrigue, mystery, murder, mayhem, and some good old sleuthing in the quest for justice.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tausha Treadway

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann. I love this series. Its so good and my favorite mystery, crime genre. Its the continuing story of Detective Scala in Rome, Italy who’s main job is to keep the people safe in his town. When a new murder victim is found in the local cemetery with a note in his hand Detective Scala is on the hunt for the murderer before more victims appear. Finding a poem in the hand of the victim is his first clue. When his family becomes targeted he is especially determined to find out who is behind this horrendous crime. The more Detective Scala digs the more secrets and shocking information he finds. There may even be more victims of this murderer once more information comes to life. Will Detective Scala be able to stop him before the people he love are in danger? Read this fast paced thriller to find out!

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 2nd book in the Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome series. I haven’t read the first book but was still able to follow the story and main character without detriment however I will be going back to read to first as I feel I’d have a better understanding of Detective Scala.

The author’s writing was descriptive and clear, painting a clear picture of the scenes and characters throughout and I enjoyed the storyline, trying to solve the mystery alongside Scala.

Scala seems to be a reliable and determined detective and with high stakes building the suspense, this is the kind of detective you need on the case. He’s also a father who loves his daughter and this adds another layer to his character that helps to make him relatable.

I’ll be going back to read the first, but I also look forward to reading the rest of the series.

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