Picture an American storyteller who traded diplomatic cables for captivating crime novels set in Italy’s sun-dappled hills—meet David P. Wagner! A retired foreign service officer turned bestselling mystery author, Wagner weaves his passion for Italian culture into the thrilling 'Rick Montoya Italian Mystery' series. With a knack for blending authentic settings, mouthwatering cuisine, and gripping intrigue, his novels are like a first-class ticket to Italy’s heart.
From his nine years living in Rome and Milan to his cozy life in Colorado, Wagner’s journey is a testament to following one’s passion. His stories don’t just solve crimes—they celebrate Italy’s art, history, and la dolce vita. Ready to dive into his world?
The Making of David P. Wagner
Born in Mount Vernon, New York, David P. Wagner’s path to authorship was anything but ordinary. After earning a BA in English from Michigan State University, where he met his wife, Wagner embarked on a global adventure as a foreign service officer. His career took him to Brazil, Ecuador, and, most formatively, Italy, where he spent nine years soaking up the culture in Rome and Milan. Before diplomacy, he served in the Peace Corps in Chile and taught high school English back home. It was in Italy, inspired by authors like Donna Leon and Andrea Camilleri, that Wagner’s love for mystery fiction took root. After retiring, he and his wife settled in Pueblo, Colorado, where he began crafting his Italian-inspired tales.
David P. Wagner’s Unforgettable Stories
Wagner’s 'Rick Montoya Italian Mystery' series is a love letter to Italy, starring Rick Montoya, a charming American-Italian translator turned amateur sleuth. Each novel whisks readers to a different Italian locale, from Tuscany’s rolling hills to Rome’s ancient streets. His debut, Cold Tuscan Stone (2013), introduces Rick as he uncovers art smuggling in Volterra, blending humor and cultural nuggets. Death in the Dolomites (2014) trades sunlit vineyards for snowy Alps, where a skiing trip turns deadly. Return to Umbria (2016) dives into Orvieto’s gothic splendor, unraveling a murder tied to priceless art. The latest, Best Served Cold (2023), sees Rick in Assisi, navigating a shady tour group’s secrets.
Wagner’s style is light yet immersive, with vivid descriptions of Italian food, wine, and landscapes that make readers feel like they’re strolling through Umbria. His plots balance complex puzzles with gentle humor, appealing to fans of cozy mysteries and international crime alike. Drawing from his diplomatic experience, Wagner crafts authentic characters and settings, ensuring Italy’s nuances shine through every page.
Why David P. Wagner Matters
David P. Wagner’s novels do more than entertain—they transport readers to Italy’s soul. His series has earned praise for its cultural authenticity, with Cold Tuscan Stone receiving a starred review from Library Journal for its 'complex puzzle' and humor. By spotlighting lesser-known towns like Mantova and Urbino, Wagner invites readers to explore Italy beyond tourist traps. His work resonates with armchair travelers and mystery lovers, offering a perfect blend of escapism and intrigue. Wagner’s legacy lies in proving that passion—whether for Italy or storytelling—can create stories that linger long after the final page.
- Birthplace: Mount Vernon, New York
- Key Works: Cold Tuscan Stone, Death in the Dolomites, Return to Umbria, Best Served Cold
- Fun Fact: Wagner ran a tourism service, 'Italia Roadrunner,' crafting self-guided trips in Tuscany and Umbria.
Snag Cold Tuscan Stone and dive into David P. Wagner’s thrilling Italian mysteries—your passport to adventure awaits!