Step into the deliciously thrilling world of Papa Pacelli’s Pizzeria, where every slice comes with a side of suspense! Patti Benning’s cozy mystery series, set in the charming coastal town of Kittiport, Maine, follows Eleanora Pacelli as she juggles running her family’s pizzeria and solving murders. With 48 books and counting, this series blends culinary charm with gripping whodunits, making it a must-read for mystery lovers.
From the first book, Pall Bearers and Pepperoni, to the latest savory tale, Savory Sourdough Murder, Eleanora’s journey captivates with its small-town warmth and unexpected twists. Whether you’re craving a light read or a binge-worthy series, Papa Pacelli’s Pizzeria serves up a delightful mix of heart, humor, and intrigue.
How Papa Pacelli’s Pizzeria Began
Patti Benning, a prolific cozy mystery author, launched Papa Pacelli’s Pizzeria in 2016 with Summer Prescott Books. Inspired by her love for crafting relatable characters and intricate plots, Benning created Eleanora Pacelli, a resilient heroine who returns to Kittiport after personal setbacks. The pizzeria setting, a nod to family-owned businesses, became the perfect backdrop for mysteries that unfold over pizza dough and community gossip. Benning’s knack for weaving clean, engaging stories—free of gore or explicit content—quickly won fans, with each book designed as a standalone yet richly connected saga.
The Heart of Papa Pacelli’s Pizzeria
The series kicks off with Pall Bearers and Pepperoni (2016), where Eleanora, newly jobless and heartbroken, returns to Kittiport to revive her grandfather’s pizzeria. A murder near her shop pulls her into sleuthing, setting the tone for her dual life as pizzeria owner and amateur detective. Bacon Cheddar Murder (2016) deepens the stakes when a body is found behind her grandmother’s house, challenging Eleanora’s trust in old friends. Halloween Pizza Murder (2017) adds a spooky twist, with Eleanora spotting a ghostly figure linked to a brutal killing, while Christmas Pizza Murder (2017) entwines family drama with a cousin’s dark secrets.
Each book explores themes of resilience, community, and trust, wrapped in Kittiport’s cozy seaside vibe. Benning’s style is fast-paced yet comforting, with vivid descriptions of pizza recipes—like pretzel crusts or four-cheese delights—that make readers hungry. The mysteries, often tied to personal betrayals or hidden pasts, keep you guessing, while Eleanora’s romance with Sheriff Russell Ward adds a sprinkle of charm. Kittiport itself feels like a character, its woods, marina, and stormy winters shaping every plot.
What sets the series apart is its balance of lighthearted fun and emotional depth. Eleanora’s growth—from a broken woman to a confident sleuth—resonates, while her pets, Bunny the dog and Marlowe the macaw, steal hearts. Fans praise the clean storytelling and surprising twists, though some note occasional proofreading hiccups.
Why Papa Pacelli’s Pizzeria Resonates
Papa Pacelli’s Pizzeria has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, offering a bingeable escape for readers who love culinary tales and small-town intrigue. Its loyal fanbase cherishes the series’ ability to feel familiar yet fresh, with each book introducing new characters and pizza-inspired mysteries. Benning’s focus on family ties and personal growth mirrors the genre’s appeal, while her prolific output—48 books by 2020—keeps readers hooked. The series’ clean, accessible style makes it a go-to for cozy fans seeking suspense without grit.
Beyond its pages, the series inspires readers to crave community and, of course, pizza. Its enduring popularity lies in Eleanora’s relatability—a woman rebuilding her life, one mystery at a time—and the promise of more Kittiport adventures.
- First Book Published: 2016 (Pall Bearers and Pepperoni)
- Total Books: 48 (as of 2020)
- Setting: Kittiport, Maine
- Author: Patti Benning
Grab Pall Bearers and Pepperoni and dive into Papa Pacelli’s Pizzeria’s cozy mystery world! Whether you’re a sleuthing fan or just love a good pizza, Eleanora’s Kittiport adventures will leave you hungry for more.