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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 Stars
The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann

The Boss of Centocelle is the sixth book in the A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Series and is a wonderfully written Crime / Mystery. I’ve read several books by this author and this one is definitely my favorite yet. I literally read this in one sitting . The twists and turns had me literally on the edge of my seat turning the pages trying to figure out what was going to happen next. Scala is back and at it again but this time finds himself in the criminal underworld. This is loaded with mystery, crime, murder, drama, danger and so much more. The story flowed so well I kept on reading till I finished. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I promise it won’t disappoint. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Boss of Centocelle is part of the Italian Murder Mystery series (as well as Commissario Scala in Rome series) but can be enjoyed as a stand alone. It is the 6th book, and I read one other, but not the entire series. This book reads like an Italian episode of Law and Order. We follow detective Scala, as he investigates a couple of murders. The story winds us through a gang, drug dealing, love quarrels and more. It kept me engaged throughout, and while I did have hunches about the killer, I didn’t figure out all the details. I enjoy the books and will likely read more- they are good mystery/suspense books about law enforcement and crime.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Mary Espinoza

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

P.J. Mann has done it again with another great book in the Detective Scala series! I have read some of the other books in this series, but not all of them and this one may have been my favorite one! P.J. has a unique way of writing about mystery and not making you feel lost as the story unfolds. This time, Detective Scala is trying to find the balance between work and personal life, and man can this be a challenge! From the time you read the first page, you will find yourself lost in the world of Detective Scala and all of the adversity that comes his way! I definitely found this book to be a page turner that I couldn’t put down. Just like with any other books in this series, you can read it as a stand-alone or you can read the whole series to get the full effect of Detective Scala and his world full of mystery. This book was full of emotion with its fair share of twists and turns! I am sitting here impatiently waiting to see what else P.J. Mann will create for us to get lost in for a moment in time! Happy reading!

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Mary Espinoza, May 2024

The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tausha Treadway

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann. This is the newest addition in the Commissario Scala Mystery and it was just as good if not better than the other 5. I do recommend reading them all in order however they can be read as standalones. This edition has Detective Scala in Italy investigating the death of 2 cousins who were up to no good. These cousins are deep in the drug underworld and when he starts investigating he realizes that there is trouble in the drug world. They are fighting among themselves and that’s always good for the investigators! What Detective Scala doesn’t account for is this case taking him away from his family more so than usual and they aren’t happy about it. Will he be able to figure out how to have balance where his family isn’t missing him and still be able to get his job done? This thriller will have you flipping pages late in the night on the edge of your seat. I love this series so much!

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Kerry Carr

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Boss of Centocelle is the sixth book in the Commissario Scala Mystery. Even though it is part of a series it can be read as a standalone read. However that being said these stories are so good you will want to read more.
This is another gripping crime read that is full of suspense , twist and turns and connections you can’t see coming. It enters the dangerous world of drugs, gangs and the unfortunate consequences of the people who get involved.
What I also love about these books is that the author gives us a deep insight into Commissario Scala’s life and how his job affects his loved ones.

This is a fast paced story dealing with gangs and drugs. And when 2 cousins turn up dead Scala has to unravel a tangled web to find out who was responsible. Was it gang related? Were they killed by a Rival gang or by their own? What was the reason?
As Scala starts to unravel this case another young man is found murdered. He is part of this gang too? If not why was he targeted? And does his death have anything to do with the suspects Scala is currently watching?

This is a story which will keep you gripped, with dangers, jealousy, betrayal, gangs and so much more. It is a very cleverly woven story which I really enjoyed.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Alison Risher

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The main character is a detective in Italy who struggles to find a healthy work to life ratio. This is an issue with which many people of today certainly struggle.He loves his family and he excels at his job. This could be considered a cautionary tale, as he learns that the choices he makes in his professional life could have unpleasant win his personal life. Will he solve the crime? Will he still still have a family when he does so? Read on to find out.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Alison Risher

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The main character is a detective in Italy who struggles to find a healthy work to life ratio. This is an issue with which many people of today certainly struggle.He loves his family and he excels at his job. This could be considered a cautionary tale, as he learns that the choices he makes in his professional life could have unpleasant win his personal life. Will he solve the crime? Will he still still have a family when he does so? Read on to find out.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Amanda Swindle

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Boss of Centocelle is book six in the Detective Scala Murder Mystery series, but can be read as a standalone. If you have read any of the previous books, you know that Det.Scala has a knack for finding trouble, and finding answers. This time around, he is investigating the murders of two cousins who were involved in illegal activities. Will he find the answers he seeks, before the person(s) involved gets to him, or worse, his loved ones? I love how the main character has a relatable vibe to him; he is gritty and raw but also exposes his doubts and insecurities. As with the other books in the series, the plot is well written with twists and turns, lots of action and adventure, and many questions to be answered. I enjoy this author’s writing style and stories as you can breeze through it without even realizing you have. I would recommend reading the previous books as well, even if you read them out of order.

Reviewed by @zoltrixes
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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Julie Johnson

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how this author writes in a such a way that you sit down to read “a chapter or two” and before you know it, you’ve finished the book in one setting. This book is full of twists and turns, some you see coming, others unexpected.

Detective Scala loves the job but it’s really starting to take it’s toll. Work/life balance is in jeopardy and he’s got to find a way to figure it out in the midst of another big crime mystery. Is he going to be able to figure it all out before he burns out?

This book can be read as a standalone, even though it is part of a series. I’ve read one other book in this series and was not disappointed. I look forward to going back and reading the other ones that I have not yet been able to get to!

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Michelle Troyer

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is in a series but can be read as a standalone. A murder mystery that grabs you from the beginning and can’t put down. Murder, drugs, crime, all in one book. Very good read!

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Brandy Vaughn

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It’s always interesting to read about a mystery setting in another country. The reader gets to see how police procedures are done in another country. There’s plenty of crime, mystery, and who-done-it in this novel to keep the reader guessing all the way to the end!

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209065416-the-boss-of-centocelle” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1708690475l/209065416._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209065416-the-boss-of-centocelle”>The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6)</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/35797592.P_J_Mann”>P. J. Mann</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6521819785″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Well this one started off with a bang. Detective Scala is on the case trying to find out who unalived two cousins. All of the time he is putting into this case is taking time from his loved ones and his home life is suffering. The more he digs the more danger he potentially puts himself in. As he digs for evidence, he gets deeper and deeper in the underground of illegal activities. Is this where the answer lies? Even though this is book six in the series it can be read as a standalone. I say that as being a reader who picked this up before reading the previous books. If engaging murder myseries are your cup of tea I do suggest giving this a try. It was engaging and the author gets you invested in solving the case.
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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gripping Italian murder mystery which kept me hooked throughout. Having read and enjoyed previous books in this series I was looking forward to being back with the stubborn detective, and I was not disappointed. This time State Police Maurizio Scala has an unexpected investigation when the bodies of two cousins, known to be involved in marijuana dealings are found. Scala soon discovers that there is a power struggle happening in the criminal underworld which the cousins murder could be linked to. However, the detectives dedication effects his personal life as he tries to balance his family responsibilities and the demands of his job. Scala’s investigative skills are put to the test when the Centocelle community becomes unsettled following another tragedy. This was a real page turner and the suspense built chapter by chapter making it hard to put the book down. Scala is a great main character who is brought to life alongside the setting through the descriptive narrative. I look forward to being back with the detective soon!

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Nina Maes

Marvelous Mystery! This read is a nail bitter and page turner novel. This author will pull you in and grab you to the very end. You can read this one as a standalone but better when read together. Full of twists and turns that keep you guessing. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a great mystery novel.The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Marvelous Mystery! This read is a nail bitter and page turner novel. This author will pull you in and grab you to the very end. You can read this one as a standalone but better when read together. Full of twists and turns that keep you guessing. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a great mystery novel.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Bobi Wagner

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book. I enjoy their writing skills as well as the attention to details that make their stories fast paced and hard to put down. This is the sixth book in this series which is just as great as the previous books. I highly suggest reading the previous books as they are just as great as this one. Scala is back in another mystery. This time he finds himself in the criminal underworld. With another tragedy, will Scala’s instincts prove to be right? I enjoyed how he pulled me into the story from the start. He is a connectable character that adds to the story. He is my favorite and I look forward to seeing what is next for him. This is an engaging story you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend this book.

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Review by @bjwagner

The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

This is book #6 of the Scala Series. It’s one of the best ones so far that I have read. If you love murder mysteries this is the book for you. You see Commissario Scala is hunting down a killer of two cousins who were dealing illegal things all while trying to spend quality time with his family. There are a lot of characters in this particular book but I feel like it made you really think what each character was up to and how they all tied together. Can Scala find the murder and still be able to spend quality time with his family? I think you should read it to find out, because I am definitely not giving any hints to that question. Of course, I will tell you that you won’t be able to put it down just like any of the other books that P.J has written, at least I couldn’t.

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book #6 of the Scala Series. It’s one of the best ones so far that I have read. If you love murder mysteries this is the book for you. You see Commissario Scala is hunting down a killer of two cousins who were dealing illegal things all while trying to spend quality time with his family. There are a lot of characters in this particular book but I feel like it made you really think what each character was up to and how they all tied together. Can Scala find the murder and still be able to spend quality time with his family? I think you should read it to find out, because I am definitely not giving any hints to that question. Of course, I will tell you that you won’t be able to put it down just like any of the other books that P.J has written, at least I couldn’t.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Beverly Finnie

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Welcome back to the world of commissario Scala’s world. Yes, The Boss of Centocelle is part of a series. However it can also be read as a standalone novel as well.
The author brings the reader to a dark world of drugs, assault, and murder. Sucking the reader in and having them fall in love with the main character. Getting the reader so invested, making you feel you’re solving the case with him.
Scala has a case falling into his lap. Being the head of his unit he needs to be careful on how he handles it. Unfortunately he has a tendency to get so invested it leads to him burning out. So he promises himself not this time.
What started out as a murder investigation of two cousins becomes so much more. As he continues to dig and talk to witnesses, he ends up falling into a dark world. Just as another murder lands in his lap, he never for once considers they aren’t connected. Late nights and working to the bone to try and solve the case leads to some interesting scenarios. Which usually happens when he has an investigation of this sort, however it makes him walk a dangerous line. A line he promised himself he wouldn’t cross.
Will Commissario Scala figure the case out before he burns out?
Is the answer closer than he thinks?
Just a few questions that came to mind while reading this story. I enjoy these books and this series. This one may not be my favorite of them all but still enjoyable. I look forward to potentially more in the future.

@placexba
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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Shannen Kern

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such an incredible book! I have read others in this series, but this may just be my favorite so far. Although it is best to read all of them to gain the full experience and background of our main character, you could read this as a standalone without any issues. I was on the edge of my seat throughout this entire book, so much so that I finished it in one day. It was definitely an emotional rollercoaster with plenty of twists and turns that I did not see coming. The flow of the story felt natural, and everything unfolded just perfectly. If you are looking for the perfect crime or mystery book, this should be your next pick. I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for us!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What another well-done addition to the series. I found this story to be full of characters that brought the mystery to life. Detective Scala had to figure out the biggest challenge to life: work/family balance. I found the story to be well-written and balanced out well. I always enjoy the plot and the characters. The author writes the stories in such a way that they grab you right from the start. I suggest you jump right in and try this one.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Book #6) by P.J. Mann – Review by Angela Hayes

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

The Boss of Centocelle is the sixth book in the Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome series by P.J. Mann. Six books in and I am still really enjoying following Scala along on each of his investigations, and again, this one was quite a twisty read….
As expected from P.J. Mann, this is another intriguing and well-woven crime & investigation mystery, with murder, tension, danger, police procedures, action, drama, emotion, family dynamics/pressures, and a ruthless sinister villain to pit him against- and where, once again Scala is thrust into a race against time to solve the case, where his instincts and the added personal pressures, will put him, his instincts, and detective skills to the test.. I felt for Scala in this story as he had a lot on his plate to deal with- which made this instalment one of my favourites of the series, so far. But then again, P.J. Mann doesn’t disappoint, always delivering a very engaging story.
Even though this is the sixth book in the series, it could be read as a standalone if you wanted. But I do highly recommend reading the previous instalments as there is a lot of background information, with Scala’s character development, personality traits, quirks, and flaws- as well as some very engrossing mysteries to be found there.
Looking forward to diving into more Commissario Scala mysteries.
Happy reading…

Thank you, P.J. Mann!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jennifer Crain

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had the pleasure of reading “The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery” by P.J. Mann, and I must say that it’s a thrilling and engaging ride from start to finish.

Detective Maurizio Scala is a stubborn and intuitive investigator who finds himself in the midst of a complex murder case. As he navigates the twists and turns, he must also balance his personal life, which is put to the test by the demands of his job.

One of the strengths of this book is its well-developed characters. Scala is a gritty and relatable hero who is easy to root for. His personal struggles and moments of tension and heartache make him a more nuanced and human character. The supporting cast is also well-written, with distinct personalities and motivations that add depth to the story.

The plot is expertly crafted, with plenty of surprises and red herrings to keep you guessing. The author’s use of language is descriptive and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the settings and characters.

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@bookworm1909

The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
The Boss of Centocelle is the sixth book in this intriguing Italian murder mystery series. I have thoroughly enjoyed each and every book and excited to see this book was out. This book can be read as a standalone but start at the beginning to see just what PJ puts her MC through. You won’t be sorry.
The Boss of Centocelle is a crime story and a part of the Commissario Scala Mystery series and is set in the underbelly of the beautiful city of Rome.
Making big money from the seedy side of life comes with inherent danger and unfortunately, they paid with their lives. With his life in turmoil Detective Scala is once again ensconced in the dark underground world whilst trying to find a murderer amongst murderers. Not an easy task.
With lots of tension, suspense galore, plenty of drama and loads of mystery. The clever plotting and world building kept me glued to the pages as Detective Scala and team are caught in another sticky web of malice, lies, deceit and corruption.
I know you will enjoy this tale by P. J. Mann it is so good.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Kerry Baker

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is another great addition to the series and is a well written and intriguing mystery story. It throws you into the story right from the first page and doesn’t seem to let go until the end. The author has worked in some great twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat.
This author is one who I am only loosely familiar with but with each book that I read the more interested I become. I connected with this story easily and could not put it down until I had finished it. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.

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~🔍~👣~ COVER REVEAL ~ 🔍~👣~ Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann

~🔍~👣~ COVER REVEAL ~ 🔍~👣~
Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann
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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.

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

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A Stranger in Disguise (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

This is book 4 in the Italian Murder Mystery series.  This book was inspired by a real case that happened in Italy. It’s the first book by P.J. Mann that I have read, so I will be reading the full series soon. I was intrigued by the title of this book and that its similar to an actual murder that happened. While I like the start of the story, I felt rather bounced around towards the middle of the story. I feel like there are too many characters and not enough mystery/action happening. I might just give it another go and try to reread it later. The characters themselves were intriguing to me, their names sound like foreign and yet similar at the same time.

A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book 4 in the Italian Murder Mystery series. This book was inspired by a real case that happened in Italy. It’s the first book by P.J. Mann that I have read, so I will be reading the full series soon. I was intrigued by the title of this book and that its similar to an actual murder that happened. While I like the start of the story, I felt rather bounced around towards the middle of the story. I feel like there are too many characters and not enough mystery/action happening. I might just give it another go and try to reread it later. The characters themselves were intriguing to me, their names sound like foreign and yet similar at the same time.

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A Stranger in Disguise (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Daryian Lucas

A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4/5 starts
This book takes place in Rome which is pretty cool! It was my first book in the series and I enjoyed it. I’ll probably go back and read the first 3 books, but it’s not a necessity. This book has so many twists and turns that I read eagerly waiting for the next page. It was an easy, but interesting read!

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A Stranger in Disguise (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Amanda Swindle

A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Stranger in Disguise is book #4 in this series, but I was easily able to read it as a stand-alone. A brilliantly written murder mystery, set in Rome, Italy, and centered around an acting group and the cursed performance of Macbeth….this caught my attention straight away! An actor from a foreign acting performance winds up dead, and Detective Maurizio Scala is given the case. The case, at first, seems very open and closed. The initial suspect, who was last seen on surveillance with the deceased actor, seems the obvious candidate. That is, until they also turn up dead. What started as a simple case turns into a very complex and different case entirely. Now the well versed detective must step into one of his least favorite places…the theatre…and get the answers before more bodies turn up. This murder mystery is full of plot twists and turns, realistic banter between the detective team, and a lead character that simply does not give up.

Reviewed by @zoltrixes

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A Stranger in Disguise (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Mary Espinoza

A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A stranger in disguise…. the title is what truly piqued my interest. I didn’t know when I picked up the book that it was part of a series…as a matter of fact it is book #4 in the series! I read this book as a stand-alone book, and it didn’t disappoint at all, I actually plan to go back and read the other 3 book at some point in time. This story is centered around multiple murdered bodies as an actors’ troupe is set to perform the cursed play, Macbeth. I mean come on…Macbeth…nothing good ever comes from the play Macbeth!

This book was a fast read, yet very interesting. I have never read anything from P.J. Mann, and I will say that I wasn’t disappointed! The author had a great way of leaving enough hints to keep you hooked, but not too much to where you figured out the mystery! There were plenty of twists and turns in this book and it kept you wanting more!
The banter was another cool thing, P.J. kept the book original by introducing how you think the banter would be…especially between Inspector Scala and his colleagues, to me this was highly realistic! There were times when I felt like I was also a detective working right beside them trying to solve the mysteries! I don’t think that anyone will be disappointed reading this book!

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Mary Espinoza, March 2023

A Stranger in Disguise (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Christen Ware

A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A winding and twisting murder mystery set in Rome that is refreshing and plenty murderous. This book has plenty of winding paths and a plot that leads the disgruntled detective through a place they’re not a true lover of – the theatre. A play that is already known for a curse is plagued by one more, and Detective Maurizio Scala must learn to play the part to crack this case. Good read.

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A Stranger in Disguise (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Whisper Hymer

A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Stranger in Disguise by P.J. Mann is a fast-paced Italian murder mystery. This is the fourth book in the Commissario Series and is fully able to be read as a standalone. Though there is some switching of point of views, we mainly follow Commissario Scala as he tries to uncover the truth behind the bodies dropping in a traveling tropue of actors. We quickly discover they were brought to Italy to save a failing theatre by performing the cursed play, Macbeth. However things take a sharp turn when the normal curse of things going bad turns to a woman found murdered and an actor missing. This twisting story will keep you up all weekend untangling the mystery!

Reviewed by @WhisperHymer

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