Murder on an Italian Island offers a delightful blend of sun-soaked setting and classic detective intrigue that kept me entertained throughout. Dan Armstrong’s promise to take a break from sleuthing quickly unravels as he’s drawn into a chilling, decades-old mystery on the beautiful island of Elba.

The atmospheric descriptions of the island and the luxury hotel provide the perfect backdrop for the suspense, while the characters—especially Dan, Anna, and his loyal dog Oscar—bring warmth and charm to the story. The twists and turns kept me guessing, and the interplay between past secrets and present danger added depth to the plot.

Though at times the pacing slowed slightly, the personal stakes for Dan raised the tension in satisfying ways. Fans of cozy mysteries with a touch of Mediterranean flair will definitely enjoy this one.

T.A. Williams's Murder on an Italian Island provides a delightful and entertaining addition to the successful Armstrong & Oscar Cozy Mystery series. The novel transports readers to the warm island of Elba, where retired detective superintendent Dan Armstrong and his faithful friend, Oscar, are looking forward to a quiet holiday. Naturally, their vision of a quiet break is soon derailed when a death at their upscale hotel draws Dan back into investigation mode.

The author skillfully combines the traditional cozy mystery structure with a stunning Italian backdrop. The story is full of turns and turns, which lead Dan into a case dating back decades close to his heart. This book is a treat for life with its picturesque location, interesting mystery, and the heartwarming relationship between Dan and his dog, Oscar. It's an ideal read for anyone who likes a classic murder mystery with a splash of Mediterranean flair and a canine sidekick.

Huge thanks to Boldwood books for the gifted ARC of the 12th instalment in the Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mysteries series.

I was so excited to return to Italy and reunite with one of my favorite detective duos—retired DCI Dan Armstrong and his loyal Labrador, Oscar.

Their partnership is always a highlight: Dan’s sharp detective instincts balanced by Oscar’s charm and loyalty give this series its heart. Every time I pick up one of these books, it feels like visiting old friends. The Italian setting is another reason why I love this series. This time we’re on the island of Elba, and the author makes you feel like you’re right there—walking its winding streets, soaking up the sunshine, and indulging in mouth-watering food and wine. The atmosphere is so vivid it turns the mystery into a true “murder in paradise.”

I’ve read 5 of the 12 books of the series so far and this one has been my favorite yet! And while this is book #12, you don’t need to have read the rest to enjoy it. Each story stands on its own, though once you meet Dan and Oscar, you’ll likely want to go back and spend more time with them.

Murder on an Italian Island is the 12th (!!!) Armstrong and Oscar cozy destination mystery by T.A. Williams. Released 5th Aug 2025 by Boldwood books, it's 234 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, although this book is *not* currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow, the first 11 books in the series are currently available on KU, so readers who hate to start in the middle will be able to access the previous books without trouble.

This is a beautifully descriptive and well written destination mystery set in locations around Italy. Expat former policeman Dan Armstrong and his trusty canine sidekick Oscar are set up as private PIs, but also assist local constabulary in solving crimes, especially ones involving the expat community/foreigners. Dan's usually along to facilitate translations in English for the police and witnesses, but his insights are valuable and he and the lead detective have a good rapport and friendship. In this case, a possible murder/suicide/accidental death has Dan & his inspector friend Virgilio trying to sort out the death of a reviled former criminal on Elba whilst on holiday (and of which Virgilio was briefly under suspicion).

The plotting is solid and the dialogue and characterizations are well controlled and believable. The mystery, denouement, and resolution are self contained in this volume, so it works well enough as a standalone, but the writing and mystery are so well planned and executed, that it would make an excellent long binge or buddy read.

It's not derivative at all, but it reminded me in a lot of good ways of Leon's exceptional Brunetti books as well as Walker's lovely Bruno, chief of police books. Fans of those authors will find a lot to enjoy here.

Four and a half stars. Very highly recommended. Clever, likeable, engaging, and well engineered mystery with stunning scenery and lovely food descriptions.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Dan escapes from the everyday as he goes on holiday,when he finds himself caught up in a murder case. This brings his personal relationships into focus. His best friend, Virgilio, is in need of Dan's help and support. He has to decide where his trust lies. Moreover, Dan finds his relationship with his partner, brought into sharp focus which awakens some very strong emotions.

The idyllic hotel setting is full of the sights and sounds of the environment and adds to the feeling of escape. There are some surprises along the way as Dan delves into the past. As ever, his faithful Oscar is there to size up the suspects and show where his trust lies. With an interesting plotline and plenty in Dan's story to keep you invested in his life, you feel that this story moves the series on a little and shows you that there is potential for future developments in this gorgeous series.

In short: friendship and love amongst the mystery

On holiday Dan, his best friend Virgilio and their wives are expecting to relax and enjoy the luxury facilities at that their Tuscan hotel offers. However this all changes when a body is discovered and there are links with the victim and Virgilio's past.
An enjoyable mystery, It has been written with an engaging plot and interesting characters. Another hit for the author T.A. Williams.

In the latest Armstrong and Oscar cozy mystery, a detective-turned-novelist gets a little too much real-life inspiration when his current story seems to come to life. Dan Armstrong has been enjoying a much-needed vacation on the island of Elba with his girlfriend Anna and dog Oscar. But days of windsurfing lessons and nights sampling the local fare are interrupted by the death of a notorious local... and at first, it seems that Dan's best friend Virgilio is the most likely suspect.

Considering the victim was persona non grata after a string of crimes 20 years prior, just about everyone has a motive. But things get more complicated when a second body turns up under equally suspicious circumstances. Has the killer struck again? Was one of the murders a case of mistaken identity? Or could these two killings really simply be accidents? Despite attempts to enjoy his vacation, Dan soon finds himself swept up in solving the case—at first because it could put a pin in his writer's block, but eventually because it seems someone has dragged Anna into proceedings.

If you've never read an Armstrong and Oscar mystery, you won't feel too adrift. It's clear that the core cast has a history, but all you need to know is that Dan Armstrong is British, he writes murder mysteries, and his dog Oscar is the best. While the final act suffers a bit from characters blurting out facts where they might not ordinarily, the book itself is broadly enjoyable. It's a relaxing summer read with just enough intrigue to keep you turning the pages.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a copy of this book to review.

This was a fun cozy mystery, and I enjoyed it a lot. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood books for the chance to read this book. It’s the 12th in the series but you could read it as a stand alone . The thing is each book gets better. It’s like the tv programme a death in paradise.
A good cozy murder mystery series that I adore.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and TA Williams for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder on an Italian Island coming out August 5, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I really love this series. I haven’t read all of them, but I’ve read quite a few. Italy is a magical place and I love all the plots set there. I loved the island setting and the mystery was good. I’d definitely read more books in the series.

This series is everything!!! Who doesn’t love going to Italy for a relaxing vacation and end up involved in a murder mystery?! I loved the descriptions as well. Very nicely written

Having never read any books in this series, I was surprised to find that book 12 did well as a standalone book.

When Dan and Anna plan a vacation in Elba along with their friends Virgilio and Lina, their vacation festivities are cut short by a series of unfortunate events. When a confrontation with a drunkard ends in a glass of red wine deliberately spilled over Virgilio, they are all shocked to find that the very same assailant was a serial rapist that Virgilio put in jail over 20 years ago and was recently released to his home in Elba. As the men explore alternative accommodations, a body is found washed along the rocks and happened to be the very same drunken man from the day before, and Virgilio is suddenly deemed the prime suspect. Did he fall to his own death or was he pushed? As Dan (and his dog Oscar) chip in to help the local police, another body is found at sea. Are the two deaths connected? Although Dan has promised his wife to momentarily step away from his sleuthing while on vacation, he is pulled into this case to prove Virgilio's innocence.

I enjoyed the beautiful imagery of Elba and the cuisine! I was blown away at how much I liked this book despite never having read any of the other books in the series. Usually, there is a disconnect when picking up a book that is well into a series, but T.A. Williams did a magnificent job spinning this mystery so that any reader could jump in at anytime to enjoy the story. After reading this novel, I will certainly go back to read the last few books.

This book is the perfect summer read for those who enjoy cozy mysteries while vacationing.

Many thanks to the author and NetGalley for the ARC. This review is voluntary and all thoughts are my own.

Dan's holidays usually involve solving a murder, but he can't resist accepting his best friend's invitation to visit Elba. What follows pushes this cosy mystery towards the dark side, affecting Dan personally. It's a twisty tale with connections to illegal trade in ancient relics and many layers, which Dan has to unpick to solve the dark mystery. It has all the investigation details, mystery and delightful doggy humour of the other stories, but this one is more emotional, and draws you in hoping for a positive conclusion. I enjoyed solving the murder mystery, the contrast of dark crime to the island's lovely ambience and the dynamics between Dan and his friends and of course, charismatic Oscar. I read and listened to this as an audiobook, and the narration, as always, is fantastic, making the characters and the events authentic.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and purchased an audiobook copy.

I've said it before and I'll say it once more
This is a series that I totally adore.
My advice, as always is to read this fantastic book
And at others in the series to do more than just look!

With Dan and his friends off on holiday
From murders and mystery can they stay away?
A luxurious hotel on Elba is where they go
Agreeing that to detecting they'll say no.

However, even the best laid plans can need change
As incidents make them plans to rearrange.
A threat, a death - but was it foul play?
Suicide is what the police seem to say.

However, Dan and Virgilio don't agree
And suspicions make them not want to let things be.
The victim has a horrific history
But what happened still remains a mystery.

With new places to see and chances to learn new things
Along with searching to see what the evidence will bring
What will the two couples eventually discover
Can the clues help them the truth to uncover?

With more incidents occuring adding to the mystery
And events from the past relating to local history
Family relationships under to spotlight, too,
So much for all of them to work their way through!

I can't recommend this brilliant read highly enough to you
And hope you'll read - and enjoy it - too!
For my copy of this fab book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.

This is such a great series. I always feel like I’ve been on holiday to Italy after reading one of these books. TA Williams writes such great scenes and characters. The food, the countryside, the local characters are so vividly described, it feels like I’m there with Dan and Oscar investigating.
This adventure gets personal with Virgilio involved and so of course Dan and Oscar need to help despite being on holiday. We have a number of suspicious characters and of course plenty of investigations for our intrepid duo to get involved with. Clues and red herrings fill the pages, as we are encouraged to make our mind up as to what’s happened.

When Dan and Anna - and their beloved dog Oscar - are invited to the island of Elba for a well-deserved break, they can’t wait to spend some time relaxing. A luxury hotel, beautiful beaches and wonderful food await them . But Dan and Oscar are never far from a mystery, and a suspicious death at the resort means the relaxation will have to wait.

Dan’s policeman friend and his wife have joined them on the trip - and it seems Virgilio has a link to the victim. Can they solve the case quickly, before fingers are pointed in the wrong direction?

I love the setting of this mystery. It is the perfect spot for a sun-drenched holiday. But as we know Dan and Oscar can’t stand back when a friend is in trouble. I like that we get to find out more about the supporting characters in T.A. Williams’ stories. Virgilio has been a good friend to Dan and I enjoyed getting more of his backstory. Their friendship is an integral part of this book and I hope we see more of this in the future.

I love that Dan and Anna’s relationship is explored more as we get to know them. There is a strength and understanding between them that allows each of them to follow their own interests. This is important for Dan, and maybe something that was missing in his life before moving to Italy.

Another great story, with plenty of twists and turns.

A confession: I think Dan and Oscar are the Anglo-Italian version of Jessica Fletcher—there’s always a murder when they travel somewhere.
I must also confess that I love this series, and just seeing the name triggers an automatic five stars.
That said, this is the twelfth instalment, and the series is still going strong—better than ever, I’d say. Dan, Anna, and the cast of characters continue to evolve, Oscar is still the loveliest dog, and the mystery is solid with realistic descriptions.
It’s a fun read, but also twisty enough to keep you hooked and guessing.
So go ahead: buy it, or borrow it from the library, and enjoy!
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for the digital copy. All opinions are mine

Murder on an Italian Island was an absolute pleasure to read. When the arc was next in line on my TBR list, I literally said “Oh goody goody!” I admit I am completely addicted to this delightful series. Anytime I read one of T.A. Williams’ books, I know I’m in for a truly excellent story.

The settings in the series always make me want to visit Italy. This book takes place on the island of Elba (yes, that one!) at a beach resort. The beach and ocean descriptions made me want to be there so much. And the food! Oh, my.

The characters are all three dimensional, and I can see how they have grown and changed through the series. And Oscar the dog is such an integral part of the series. He always adds a touch of humor to these stories.

I am very much looking forward to the next in the series. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the pleasure of reading an advanced copy. I’m happy to leave my honest review.

A well-earned holiday, as Dan and partner Anna head to the island of Elba – together with friends Virgilio and Lina and, of course, the irrepressible Oscar. But Dan’s holidays have rather a history of not being quite as relaxing as he hopes. First there are the windsurfing classes that Anna’s arranged – and she’s rather better at it than he is. And then there’s a particularly unpleasant encounter over their evening meal – a drunken man, Ignazio Graziani, recently released from prison after a series of particularly vicious abductions. Virgilio was involved in his capture and conviction – and when the man is found dead at the bottom of a cliff the following morning, comes under suspicion when he can’t account fully for his movements the night before.

Things get more complicated when Ignazio’s brother Aldo, the owner of the resort where Dan is learning to windsurf and with a less than savoury reputation of his own, is also found dead – if the first death really was a murder, might it have been a case of mistaken identity? And then there’s the presence on the island of a couple of carabinieri investigating the theft and distribution of Etruscan works of art – might there be a link there? There’s no way two experienced investigators can resist supporting the police investigation – although their involvement proves to have an edge of danger that they really weren’t expecting, with some particularly edge-of-the-seat moments.

The mystery, as always, is nicely convoluted – with an ever-changing list of suspects and an increasingly complicated set of possible motives – and I found it as fascinating as ever, and as impossible to second guess the outcome. I very much enjoyed the Elba setting, vividly described – that closed community with long memories, where so many had their reasons for not being entirely sorry about the brothers’ demise. The more dramatic moments are exceptionally well written – but there’s also plenty of the lightness that I always enjoy, often accompanied by food, and usually with Oscar as its focus. And my goodness, this time he really earns his steak – a critical and particularly timely intervention that Lassie would have been proud of.

An excellent and challenging plot, a gripping read, but as completely enjoyable as ever – a wonderful addition to this long-running series, and very much recommended.

This is the first book that I have read by this author. I enjoyed the interaction with Oscar and the people around whether it is the bad guy or nice guy. The story is a cozy mystery that has a little intrigue.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Boldwood Publishing and leaving a review by my own choice.