Picture a Jersey Shore sunset, the aroma of simmering marinara, and a gripping mystery unfolding—meet Rosie Genova! This American author has charmed readers with her cozy mysteries, blending suspense with Italian-American flair. Known for her Italian Kitchen Mystery series, Genova’s stories capture the heart of the Jersey Shore, earning her critical acclaim and a devoted readership.
A proud Jersey girl, Genova balances her life as an English teacher with her passion for crafting tales that feel like a warm family dinner—comforting yet spiced with intrigue. Her unique voice has made her a standout in the cozy mystery genre, inviting readers to savor every plot twist.
The Making of Rosie Genova
Born and bred in central New Jersey, Rosie Genova’s love for the Jersey Shore runs deep. Growing up surrounded by the boardwalk’s sights and sounds, she developed a knack for storytelling inspired by her Italian heritage and the vibrant coastal culture. Before becoming a novelist, Genova honed her skills as a journalist, contributing to publications like Entrepreneur magazine and The New York Times, and as an English teacher, nurturing young writers.
Her writing journey began with women’s fiction under the pseudonym Rosemary DiBattista, but a nudge from her agent led her to cozy mysteries. Influenced by classics like Nancy Drew and Agatha Christie, Genova found her niche, weaving her love for food, family, and the shore into her narratives.
Rosie Genova’s Unforgettable Stories
Genova’s Italian Kitchen Mystery series is her crowning achievement, starting with Murder and Marinara (2013), a Suspense Magazine Best Pick and a 2014 Daphne Award finalist. The story follows Victoria Rienzi, a mystery writer turned amateur sleuth, as she navigates murder and family drama at her family’s restaurant, Casa Lido. Readers adore the authentic Jersey Shore setting and the mouthwatering Italian recipes included.
The series continues with The Wedding Soup Murder (2014), where Victoria juggles a wedding and a killer, and A Dish Best Served Cold (2015), praised for its sharp plotting. The fourth installment, Minestrone Mischief (2022), brings Halloween antics and a stalker to the boardwalk, showcasing Genova’s knack for blending humor and suspense. Beyond cozies, Genova explores time travel in her Tess Mancini Time Travel Mysteries, with Murder on the Steel Pier (2025) set in 1955 Atlantic City.
Genova’s style is a delightful mix of wit, warmth, and vivid settings. Her characters, from feisty nonnas to charming detectives, feel like family, while her plots keep readers guessing. Her deep appreciation for Italian-American culture and Jersey Shore ambiance infuses every page, making her books a love letter to her roots.
Why Rosie Genova Matters
Rosie Genova has carved a unique space in the cozy mystery genre, bringing the Jersey Shore to life with authenticity and heart. Her Italian Kitchen Mysteries resonate with readers who crave stories that blend suspense with cultural richness. Critics, like New Jersey Monthly, praise her for capturing family dynamics and local charm, while fans cherish her relatable heroines and clever plots.
Genova’s impact extends beyond her books. As a former teacher, she inspires aspiring writers, and her multi-genre ventures—spanning suspense and rom-coms—showcase her versatility. Her devoted readership eagerly awaits each new release, proving her stories are as enduring as the shore itself.
- Key Works: Italian Kitchen Mysteries, Tess Mancini Time Travel Mysteries
- Awards: Suspense Magazine Best Cozy (2013), 2014 Daphne Award finalist
- Fun Fact: Genova lives with her husband, three sons, and a mutt named Lucy
Ready to dive into a cozy mystery with a side of marinara? Snag Murder and Marinara and savor Rosie Genova’s deliciously suspenseful world!