What do you think?
Rate this book
Tartufo
A fantastical and endlessly funny story featuring a cast of colorful characters in a dying Italian village and a giant truffle that changes their fate forever.
After nearly losing the election to a geriatric but wildly popular donkey named Maurizio, newly installed Mayor Delizia Miccuci can’t help but feel like the sun has finally set on the rural Italian village of Lazzarini Boscarino. Tourists only stop by to ask for directions, Nonna Amara’s cherished ristorante is long shuttered, and the town hall is disgustingly overrun with glis glis poo—even Postman Duccio has been disgraced. All that’s left is Bar Celebrità, a rustic establishment where weary locals gather to quibble over decades-long disputes, submit their poor stomachs to bartender Giuseppina’s volcanic espresso, and wonder what will become of the place where together they’ve spent their entire lives.
Little do the villagers know that, mere miles away in the forest, local truffle hunter Giovanni Scarpazza has just happened upon something that could change everything. Swollen to massive proportions, soaking the atmosphere in its pungent fumes, potentially worth six figures in certain international circles, a truffle—un tartufo, that is—sits beneath the soil with the power to either be the greatest gift or the foulest curse the village has ever seen—they’re not completely sure which since Giuseppina’s psychic was a bit unclear on the matter.
Tartufo is much more than a charming romp through the foothills of Tuscany. Written in the same enchanting style and raucous humor that defines Hollow Kingdom and Feral Creatures, Buxton’s newest story is a reflection on the interconnectedness of life in all its manifestations—and how holding on to harmony in the face of hardship can grow something beautiful and rare beneath the surface.
After nearly losing the election to a geriatric but wildly popular donkey named Maurizio, newly installed Mayor Delizia Miccuci can’t help but feel like the sun has finally set on the rural Italian village of Lazzarini Boscarino. Tourists only stop by to ask for directions, Nonna Amara’s cherished ristorante is long shuttered, and the town hall is disgustingly overrun with glis glis poo—even Postman Duccio has been disgraced. All that’s left is Bar Celebrità, a rustic establishment where weary locals gather to quibble over decades-long disputes, submit their poor stomachs to bartender Giuseppina’s volcanic espresso, and wonder what will become of the place where together they’ve spent their entire lives.
Little do the villagers know that, mere miles away in the forest, local truffle hunter Giovanni Scarpazza has just happened upon something that could change everything. Swollen to massive proportions, soaking the atmosphere in its pungent fumes, potentially worth six figures in certain international circles, a truffle—un tartufo, that is—sits beneath the soil with the power to either be the greatest gift or the foulest curse the village has ever seen—they’re not completely sure which since Giuseppina’s psychic was a bit unclear on the matter.
Tartufo is much more than a charming romp through the foothills of Tuscany. Written in the same enchanting style and raucous humor that defines Hollow Kingdom and Feral Creatures, Buxton’s newest story is a reflection on the interconnectedness of life in all its manifestations—and how holding on to harmony in the face of hardship can grow something beautiful and rare beneath the surface.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published January 28, 2025
589 people are currently reading
20.1k people want to read
About the author
Kira Jane Buxton
4books1,437followersKira Jane Buxton's writing has appeared in The New York Times, NewYorker.com, McSweeney’s, The Rumpus, Huffington Post, and more.
Her debut novel Hollow Kingdom was an Indie Next pick, a finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor, the Audie Awards and the Washington State Book Awards, and was named a best book of 2019 by NPR, Book Riot, and Good Housekeeping. She calls the tropical utopia of Seattle home and spends her time with three cats, a dog, two crows, a charm of hummingbirds, five Steller's jays, two dark-eyed juncos, two squirrels, and a husband.
Her debut novel Hollow Kingdom was an Indie Next pick, a finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor, the Audie Awards and the Washington State Book Awards, and was named a best book of 2019 by NPR, Book Riot, and Good Housekeeping. She calls the tropical utopia of Seattle home and spends her time with three cats, a dog, two crows, a charm of hummingbirds, five Steller's jays, two dark-eyed juncos, two squirrels, and a husband.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 348 reviews
January 25, 2025
Forage through the pile of new books this winter, and you aren’t likely to dig up a more charming novel than “Tartufo.� Kira Jane Buxton’s story about truffle mania whisks us away to Italy and serves up one buttery page of comedy after another.
The crucial action takes place a few inches below ground where, Buxton writes, “the soil is soft and the summer rains are just right.� Then, if magic and spores cooperate, a subterranean jewel might develop in symbiosis with a tree root.
But “Tartufo� is more concerned with the two- and four-legged creatures scurrying around above ground in the little Tuscan village of Lazzarini Boscarino. Founded in the 11th century, the town is now a desiccated remnant of itself. The treasury is empty. Landslides have wreaked damage. Almost all the businesses have closed, except Bar Celebrità, whose 53-year-old bartender has started yanking down her singlet and flashing busloads of tourists in hopes of inspiring them to stop as they rumble by. Alas, they prefer the Apennine mountains.
Buxton, whose previous novel, “Hollow Kingdom,� was a finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor, has crowded her new book with the earnest, eccentric characters you’d hope to find in an out-of-the-way Italian village: an excommunicated priest, a disgraced postman who....
To read the rest of this review, go to The Washington Post:
The crucial action takes place a few inches below ground where, Buxton writes, “the soil is soft and the summer rains are just right.� Then, if magic and spores cooperate, a subterranean jewel might develop in symbiosis with a tree root.
But “Tartufo� is more concerned with the two- and four-legged creatures scurrying around above ground in the little Tuscan village of Lazzarini Boscarino. Founded in the 11th century, the town is now a desiccated remnant of itself. The treasury is empty. Landslides have wreaked damage. Almost all the businesses have closed, except Bar Celebrità, whose 53-year-old bartender has started yanking down her singlet and flashing busloads of tourists in hopes of inspiring them to stop as they rumble by. Alas, they prefer the Apennine mountains.
Buxton, whose previous novel, “Hollow Kingdom,� was a finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor, has crowded her new book with the earnest, eccentric characters you’d hope to find in an out-of-the-way Italian village: an excommunicated priest, a disgraced postman who....
To read the rest of this review, go to The Washington Post:
February 22, 2025
Lazzarini Boscarino. A small Italian town on the brink of death because all of the young people move away, leaving only a precious few. Struggling to keep the town alive, the new mayor searches for a way to keep things going. When the largest ever white truffle is rooted out nearby, this tiny town is about to be bombarded by the worldwide media, celebrity chefs, and thieves. Will Lazzarini Boscarino survive? You'll have to read this to find out!
I have followed Kira Jane Buxton since her first book Hollow Kingdom. Her offbeat sense of humor is always present-she's hilarious. But what I like most about her work is its connected-ness. We are all connected to the world. We do not exist as islands, the things we do as individuals and as a people have ripple effects throughout. This concept is at the heart of Hollow Kingdom and its sequel. That concept is not the heart of this story, but it is here. Perhaps in the form of a bee, flying from room to room in search of tasty treats and overhearing the human conversations as she buzzes by. Perhaps in the form of a street cat named Al Pacino as she flows through the tiny streets of town, pregnant once again, and privy to many small town secrets. Perhaps in just the intoxicating scent of a white truffle as it floats through the air, pheromones inciting romance...and other things.
The cast of characters here was positively delightful and I especially admired Guisepinna, the fiery town bartender and rather obnoxious beauty. The recently widowed Giovanni just wanted to be left alone with his truffle hunting dogs because that's all he had left. The entire town was charming as hell and this reader couldn't help but fall in love with this tiny corner of Tuscany.
Full of laughs, nature's beauty, terrific Italian dishes, and fiery Italian tempers, Tartufo was utterly delightful. Beautifully written with a love of humanity and nature, I think this is going to be one that I read over and over again.
My highest recommendation!
*ARC from publisher
I have followed Kira Jane Buxton since her first book Hollow Kingdom. Her offbeat sense of humor is always present-she's hilarious. But what I like most about her work is its connected-ness. We are all connected to the world. We do not exist as islands, the things we do as individuals and as a people have ripple effects throughout. This concept is at the heart of Hollow Kingdom and its sequel. That concept is not the heart of this story, but it is here. Perhaps in the form of a bee, flying from room to room in search of tasty treats and overhearing the human conversations as she buzzes by. Perhaps in the form of a street cat named Al Pacino as she flows through the tiny streets of town, pregnant once again, and privy to many small town secrets. Perhaps in just the intoxicating scent of a white truffle as it floats through the air, pheromones inciting romance...and other things.
The cast of characters here was positively delightful and I especially admired Guisepinna, the fiery town bartender and rather obnoxious beauty. The recently widowed Giovanni just wanted to be left alone with his truffle hunting dogs because that's all he had left. The entire town was charming as hell and this reader couldn't help but fall in love with this tiny corner of Tuscany.
Full of laughs, nature's beauty, terrific Italian dishes, and fiery Italian tempers, Tartufo was utterly delightful. Beautifully written with a love of humanity and nature, I think this is going to be one that I read over and over again.
My highest recommendation!
*ARC from publisher
September 11, 2024
Truly delightful read! Such a terrific story stuffed full of humor, warmth and a wonderful engaging cast of characters! I loved the prose and the author’s creative knack for describing things. Many times I laughed out loud as I read her descriptions of the small Italian village that served as her setting and all the people and animals that lived there. It appears that the little village of Lazzarini Boscarino is dying. It needs something to place it on the map, draw the tourists in�.something that will bring in much needed funds! Who would believe a giant truffle might just be the answer. The little close knit community gathers together in their quest to sell the truffle to the highest bidder and you will not want to miss out on the fun. You will love the townspeole who are full of life and care deeply for their town and each other, the descriptions of the food and wine, the village, the truffle hunting, the animals, and the ending! I feel like I could walk into Lazzarini Boscarino and know all the townspeople by sight. Then I’d love to sit down and share some of the delicious food and wine with them and catch up on their lives! It really makes me want to go back and visit Italy and find some small towns just like this one. Tartufo does not disappoint! Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for a chance to read this ARC.
February 10, 2025
People in bookstores around the country are going to be reading a "review" I wrote months before reading this novel. No, I was determined to save it for January 1st. Every year, I read the book I'm most excited about for the new year on the 1st. It's an important ritual for me, and there was no question that I would be reading Tartufo this year.
And here's the thing, I loved it. Of course, I loved it. But it didn't entirely meet my expectations. Kira's first two novels were so overtly, ridiculously, absurdly funny! Plus, they had a distinctly speculative element. I knew there was nothing speculative in Tartufo, but the tone was a lot subtler. It really drove home that she is not a one-trick pony, and also that she's a more sophisticated storyteller and prose stylist than I previously realized. I mean, she was already at the very top of my Must Read list, and it turns out she's SO much better than I even realized!
This is essentially a high-concept novel. In short, the discovery of an enormous truffle may change the fate of a depressed Tuscan village. So far, so good. Think rural Tuscany meets Stars Hollow. Quirky townsfolk, some desperation, charmingly named animals. (It's Kira Jane Buxton, of course there are animals.). But there are also mysteries, some significant and some incredibly trivial. (Whose vibrator WAS it?) You'll get answers, but there's a fair amount of tension along the way. There are a lot of individuals with conflicting or hidden agendas. So, yes, high-concept, but not simplistic. The same could be said of the ensemble cast. These people are not archetypes. They live complex lives. There is comic relief. It's definitely a comic novel, but again, more subtle and sophisticated than the delightful Hollow Kingdom and its sequel.
And here's one last thought... There were twists and turns and several outrages through the pages of the novel, and right through to the satisfying ending, I just never knew what was going to happen. Bravissima, Kira! I chose well my first read of 2025!
And here's the thing, I loved it. Of course, I loved it. But it didn't entirely meet my expectations. Kira's first two novels were so overtly, ridiculously, absurdly funny! Plus, they had a distinctly speculative element. I knew there was nothing speculative in Tartufo, but the tone was a lot subtler. It really drove home that she is not a one-trick pony, and also that she's a more sophisticated storyteller and prose stylist than I previously realized. I mean, she was already at the very top of my Must Read list, and it turns out she's SO much better than I even realized!
This is essentially a high-concept novel. In short, the discovery of an enormous truffle may change the fate of a depressed Tuscan village. So far, so good. Think rural Tuscany meets Stars Hollow. Quirky townsfolk, some desperation, charmingly named animals. (It's Kira Jane Buxton, of course there are animals.). But there are also mysteries, some significant and some incredibly trivial. (Whose vibrator WAS it?) You'll get answers, but there's a fair amount of tension along the way. There are a lot of individuals with conflicting or hidden agendas. So, yes, high-concept, but not simplistic. The same could be said of the ensemble cast. These people are not archetypes. They live complex lives. There is comic relief. It's definitely a comic novel, but again, more subtle and sophisticated than the delightful Hollow Kingdom and its sequel.
And here's one last thought... There were twists and turns and several outrages through the pages of the novel, and right through to the satisfying ending, I just never knew what was going to happen. Bravissima, Kira! I chose well my first read of 2025!
February 12, 2025
This book takes place in a small Tuscan village in Italy. Giovanni is a truffle hunter and finds a giant truffle - the biggest white truffle ever found. The mayor, who barely beat a donkey in the mayoral race, is keeping it secret that their village is in financial trouble. Will the truffle help the town or be their downfall?
Greed and paranoia abound in this humorous look at human nature. The importance of community through relationships and food are highlighted with tidbits of wisdom mingled in the humor. This is a light-hearted, delightful gem that transports you to Tuscany.
Greed and paranoia abound in this humorous look at human nature. The importance of community through relationships and food are highlighted with tidbits of wisdom mingled in the humor. This is a light-hearted, delightful gem that transports you to Tuscany.
October 10, 2024
A small aging town in Tuscany finds itself in financial trouble. When the community comes up together to find way to generate interest and tourisim the miraculous happens with the discovery of the worlds largest truffle. There is a host of quirky characters, some wonderful animals and alot of zany circumstances. I found the first part of the book slow, mostly because of the writing style... lots of over the top description that stood in the way of the story. This is a light read, often heartwarming with a charming wrap up.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance readers copy
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance readers copy
February 18, 2025
Charming and funny but not nearly as absurd as I'd hoped. 🍄�
"Fungi are the forgotten alchemists. They are the king and scavenger in the vast kingdom that humbles a human eye."
When I picked up Tartufo, I had one burning question: Was there really a geriatric donkey in the mayoral race? I'm happy to report that the answer is yes. 😁
Tartufo tells the story a rural Italian village that’s financially struggling. Lucky for the village's aging residents, one of the one of the villagers finds a record-breaking truffle in the forest. The newly elected mayor (who, yes, won by the narrowest margin against an elderly donkey named Maurizio) realizes the truffle could draw tourists to their village, as well as money. Lots and lots of money. 💰
But keeping an oversized, potent truffle that's potentially worth a million dollars a secret is no easy task. Hijinks ensue while the villagers strive to keep the truffle safe until it can be sold at auction, thereby raising enough money to save the village from financial ruin.
Tartufo reads like a love letter to truffle hunting. But more than that, it’s a tender and intermittently funny story of found family and the importance of community.
My main gripe about the book is that it features more characters than I was expecting, and I had trouble keeping them straight: Nonna Amara, Giovanni Scarpazza, Giuseppina, Duccio Berardinelli, Padre Frances, Delizia Micucci, and more.
When I reached the end of the book, I discovered a list of character with short descriptions about who they are. It would have been helpful to have that information at the start of the book. But even then, if a 300 page book needs a list of characters, maybe there are too many?
Did Tartufo sway into the absurd as Buxton's previous work did? Sadly, no. But it is laced with signs of her adoration for the natural world, such as a scene that allows us to view the village through the eyes of a honeybee, or a meeting between villagers that's dotted with the story of a tiny ant finding a tray of pastries. 🐝 More of this please!
Overall, a sweet and charming read.
"Fungi are the forgotten alchemists. They are the king and scavenger in the vast kingdom that humbles a human eye."
When I picked up Tartufo, I had one burning question: Was there really a geriatric donkey in the mayoral race? I'm happy to report that the answer is yes. 😁
Tartufo tells the story a rural Italian village that’s financially struggling. Lucky for the village's aging residents, one of the one of the villagers finds a record-breaking truffle in the forest. The newly elected mayor (who, yes, won by the narrowest margin against an elderly donkey named Maurizio) realizes the truffle could draw tourists to their village, as well as money. Lots and lots of money. 💰
But keeping an oversized, potent truffle that's potentially worth a million dollars a secret is no easy task. Hijinks ensue while the villagers strive to keep the truffle safe until it can be sold at auction, thereby raising enough money to save the village from financial ruin.
Tartufo reads like a love letter to truffle hunting. But more than that, it’s a tender and intermittently funny story of found family and the importance of community.
My main gripe about the book is that it features more characters than I was expecting, and I had trouble keeping them straight: Nonna Amara, Giovanni Scarpazza, Giuseppina, Duccio Berardinelli, Padre Frances, Delizia Micucci, and more.
When I reached the end of the book, I discovered a list of character with short descriptions about who they are. It would have been helpful to have that information at the start of the book. But even then, if a 300 page book needs a list of characters, maybe there are too many?
Did Tartufo sway into the absurd as Buxton's previous work did? Sadly, no. But it is laced with signs of her adoration for the natural world, such as a scene that allows us to view the village through the eyes of a honeybee, or a meeting between villagers that's dotted with the story of a tiny ant finding a tray of pastries. 🐝 More of this please!
Overall, a sweet and charming read.
February 27, 2025
{thank you to NetGalley for my copy of this ebook}
What a serious delight of a book! Stop me if I sound like SNL's Stefon, but THIS BOOK HAS EVERYTHING. It contains the most charming cast of characters, decadent food, lots of great humor, and the most gorgeous prose. Oh, and there's even a donkey who is very nearly nominated as mayor. Wait, there's also a female cat named Al Pacino. I told you- everything.
The book takes place in the struggling little Italian village of Lazzarini Boscarino. The town is not a tourist attraction and has no money.... a donkey almost became mayor, for goodness sake! But it's truly the residents that make the town. They may not always get along and they certainly don't agree on everything, but they so endearing.
The story starts off a little slowly for me, BUT I was pulled in by Buxton's writing from the first page. I figured even if the story was a little boring, at least I'd get to experience something really beautiful in the meantime. However, the story quickly picks up when Giovanni Scarpazza and his dogs find a really, really big truffle. Like the kind that could change the course of your life. Or the future of your town.
I don't want to give anything away because part of the beauty of the book is the unfolding of the story. Honestly, I feel like I'm not a good enough writer to truly describe the beauty of this novel. But even if you don't care about prose, you'll want to read it for the cast of characters.
I'm so excited for this book to publish and for everyone to read it. And I feel so lucky that I already had the chance to. It's the kind of book that, once it's released, I'll definitely want to read again. The people of Lazzarini Boscarino feel like friends now and I miss them so much now that the book is over.
Update: updating my review because NetGalley gave me the opportunity to listen to Tartufo on audiobook and it was also great! I really enjoyed the narrator, but do wish there was a bigger cast of characters narrating as I think it would have played really well to this book. Ultimately, for me, this book is a much better physical read than audiobook since I want to sit down and read those beautiful descriptions rather than listen to them. But I also think it's a fantastic audiobook!
What a serious delight of a book! Stop me if I sound like SNL's Stefon, but THIS BOOK HAS EVERYTHING. It contains the most charming cast of characters, decadent food, lots of great humor, and the most gorgeous prose. Oh, and there's even a donkey who is very nearly nominated as mayor. Wait, there's also a female cat named Al Pacino. I told you- everything.
The book takes place in the struggling little Italian village of Lazzarini Boscarino. The town is not a tourist attraction and has no money.... a donkey almost became mayor, for goodness sake! But it's truly the residents that make the town. They may not always get along and they certainly don't agree on everything, but they so endearing.
The story starts off a little slowly for me, BUT I was pulled in by Buxton's writing from the first page. I figured even if the story was a little boring, at least I'd get to experience something really beautiful in the meantime. However, the story quickly picks up when Giovanni Scarpazza and his dogs find a really, really big truffle. Like the kind that could change the course of your life. Or the future of your town.
I don't want to give anything away because part of the beauty of the book is the unfolding of the story. Honestly, I feel like I'm not a good enough writer to truly describe the beauty of this novel. But even if you don't care about prose, you'll want to read it for the cast of characters.
I'm so excited for this book to publish and for everyone to read it. And I feel so lucky that I already had the chance to. It's the kind of book that, once it's released, I'll definitely want to read again. The people of Lazzarini Boscarino feel like friends now and I miss them so much now that the book is over.
Update: updating my review because NetGalley gave me the opportunity to listen to Tartufo on audiobook and it was also great! I really enjoyed the narrator, but do wish there was a bigger cast of characters narrating as I think it would have played really well to this book. Ultimately, for me, this book is a much better physical read than audiobook since I want to sit down and read those beautiful descriptions rather than listen to them. But I also think it's a fantastic audiobook!
March 9, 2025
Charming. Funny. Enchanting.
⭐Review to follow�
⭐Review to follow�
January 28, 2025
Tartufo by Kira Jane Buxton is an absolute gem of a book, one that I didn’t expect to leave such a lasting impression, but here I am, still thinking about it long after I’ve finished. It’s a funny, sweet, and heartwarming exploration of relationships and what truly matters in life, and I cannot recommend it enough. Buxton’s writing is equal parts laugh-out-loud amusing and beautiful, creating a narrative that’s as entertaining as it is emotionally resonant.
The characters in Tartufo are what really make this story shine. Each one is so well-crafted, with distinct personalities that come to life on the page. There’s an authenticity to how they’re written, and I found myself deeply invested in their relationships, struggles, and growth. They reminded me a lot of the characters we see in Fredrik Backman’s books—relatable, deeply human, and brimming with charm. I couldn’t help but root for them.
One of the most unique and magical aspects of Tartufo is Buxton’s writing style. It’s something I haven’t come across before and absolutely loved. The way she introduces characters, the setting, and certain events—by following an insect, an animal, or a scent through the scene—is utterly captivating. This approach adds an ethereal quality to the narrative, making each moment feel like it’s brimming with possibility and magic. The way Buxton weaves these sensory elements into the story creates a rich, immersive world that you want to linger in.
The story itself, at its core, is about discovering what’s truly important in life—relationships, personal connections, and understanding that happiness isn’t found in material things or fleeting moments, but in the bonds we build with others. The humor in the book never distracts from the deeper emotional moments; there’s a balance between lightheartedness and poignancy that makes Tartufo such a fulfilling read.r
The characters in Tartufo are what really make this story shine. Each one is so well-crafted, with distinct personalities that come to life on the page. There’s an authenticity to how they’re written, and I found myself deeply invested in their relationships, struggles, and growth. They reminded me a lot of the characters we see in Fredrik Backman’s books—relatable, deeply human, and brimming with charm. I couldn’t help but root for them.
One of the most unique and magical aspects of Tartufo is Buxton’s writing style. It’s something I haven’t come across before and absolutely loved. The way she introduces characters, the setting, and certain events—by following an insect, an animal, or a scent through the scene—is utterly captivating. This approach adds an ethereal quality to the narrative, making each moment feel like it’s brimming with possibility and magic. The way Buxton weaves these sensory elements into the story creates a rich, immersive world that you want to linger in.
The story itself, at its core, is about discovering what’s truly important in life—relationships, personal connections, and understanding that happiness isn’t found in material things or fleeting moments, but in the bonds we build with others. The humor in the book never distracts from the deeper emotional moments; there’s a balance between lightheartedness and poignancy that makes Tartufo such a fulfilling read.r
March 4, 2025
Cosy Village read.
In an increasingly crazed political environment, I find that my tastes in entertainment have definitely shifted to embrace some “happy reading�, and Tartufo fits that.
That doesn’t mean that there are significant issues addressed in the book, but it’s isn’t under the cloud of doomsaying. Set in a small, dying rural village in Tuscany we set out on an adventure that has drama, surprises, death, food—it is Italy, intrigue, the tug between high society and rustic simplicity, and love.
Love, caring, community, and loyalty.
It was a perfect read for some quiet moments.
In an increasingly crazed political environment, I find that my tastes in entertainment have definitely shifted to embrace some “happy reading�, and Tartufo fits that.
That doesn’t mean that there are significant issues addressed in the book, but it’s isn’t under the cloud of doomsaying. Set in a small, dying rural village in Tuscany we set out on an adventure that has drama, surprises, death, food—it is Italy, intrigue, the tug between high society and rustic simplicity, and love.
Love, caring, community, and loyalty.
It was a perfect read for some quiet moments.
September 23, 2024
Tartuffo paints a portrait of a small Italian village in bright and vibrant colors. The residents are rendered in broad, suggestive strokes, creating caricatures and twisted archetypes that populate a whimsical landscape teeming with fortune tellers, expressive hunting dogs, bats, wolves, a cat named Al Pacino and an assortment of Vespas, Ferarris and Fiats.
From litigating aging grudges to high society schmoozing, from castles to pastoral meadows, from heists to healing (alleged) snake bites—this attention-deficient narrative jumps around enough that the meaning behind the madcap adventure becomes fuzzy.
You'll find more alliteration in this novel than in most epic poems—how would you describe that musky odor—melancholy, perhaps? � Whenever an Italian word can be paired with a descriptor beginning with the same letter, it's irresistible to this author. Prosecco is popping, breakfast is bombolone and the pasticceria is planked. The syrupy sweet, bouquet-of-flowers-in-the-face language becomes tiresome as the overly sentimental narrative continues to lurch from one quixotic plot point to the next. The narrator often uses culinary terms to describe objects and events, but it's the cheesy humor and not the edible ingredients mentioned that stand out for the reader. It's almost 200 pages in before the author fully explains what a truffle is and why it's important in fancy cooking. No one would expect the story to be a mycology lesson, but that seems like information you'd want to put near the beginning of the novel.
If you're more in the mood for a messy splash of a story than a measured pour of reality or fantasy, this manic adventure might suit you as well as a fine chianti.
A palate-cleansing thank you to Edelweiss+ and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC.
From litigating aging grudges to high society schmoozing, from castles to pastoral meadows, from heists to healing (alleged) snake bites—this attention-deficient narrative jumps around enough that the meaning behind the madcap adventure becomes fuzzy.
You'll find more alliteration in this novel than in most epic poems—how would you describe that musky odor—melancholy, perhaps? � Whenever an Italian word can be paired with a descriptor beginning with the same letter, it's irresistible to this author. Prosecco is popping, breakfast is bombolone and the pasticceria is planked. The syrupy sweet, bouquet-of-flowers-in-the-face language becomes tiresome as the overly sentimental narrative continues to lurch from one quixotic plot point to the next. The narrator often uses culinary terms to describe objects and events, but it's the cheesy humor and not the edible ingredients mentioned that stand out for the reader. It's almost 200 pages in before the author fully explains what a truffle is and why it's important in fancy cooking. No one would expect the story to be a mycology lesson, but that seems like information you'd want to put near the beginning of the novel.
If you're more in the mood for a messy splash of a story than a measured pour of reality or fantasy, this manic adventure might suit you as well as a fine chianti.
A palate-cleansing thank you to Edelweiss+ and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC.
December 11, 2024
I received a copy for review purposes. All opinions are honest and mine alone.
With an abundance of alliteration, vocabulary to stump Webster and descriptions that rival “saying yes or no in 500 words or more�, TARTUFO tested my patience as a reader.
Introducing characters and the dying town of Lazzarina Boscarino take up the first half of this painfully slow moving novel. There is so much detail it would have been helpful to have a score card only I was glazed over and really didn’t care about most of the people. It was nearly 200 pages before author, Kira Jane Buxton, shares what a TARTUFO is and why it’s important. The expression “hurry up and wait� has never been so real.
In fairness, the second half does move somewhat better with more action and characters rising to a place I cared about them. The story still feels too long, like Buxton had a page or word count she needed to achieve. I kept wondering where the heck was her editor?
If you’re a fan of highly detailed prose, extremely quirky characters and the ever popular HEA, this book might be perfect for you. For added fun, the animals are really entertaining and the cover is gorgeous📚
Read and reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
With an abundance of alliteration, vocabulary to stump Webster and descriptions that rival “saying yes or no in 500 words or more�, TARTUFO tested my patience as a reader.
Introducing characters and the dying town of Lazzarina Boscarino take up the first half of this painfully slow moving novel. There is so much detail it would have been helpful to have a score card only I was glazed over and really didn’t care about most of the people. It was nearly 200 pages before author, Kira Jane Buxton, shares what a TARTUFO is and why it’s important. The expression “hurry up and wait� has never been so real.
In fairness, the second half does move somewhat better with more action and characters rising to a place I cared about them. The story still feels too long, like Buxton had a page or word count she needed to achieve. I kept wondering where the heck was her editor?
If you’re a fan of highly detailed prose, extremely quirky characters and the ever popular HEA, this book might be perfect for you. For added fun, the animals are really entertaining and the cover is gorgeous📚
Read and reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
January 29, 2025
Utterly fantastic! Pub Day 1/28/25
A small, ancient Italian village sits nestled in beautiful Tuscany. Villagers and their families have lived here for hundreds of years, and are loyal to their lineage.
Unfortunately, the village can no longer support economic growth with most shops and restaurants now closed.
They have one restaurant left that tourists skip but the locals love. One brother of two chefs runs this local restaurant while the other brother runs a Michelin star restaurant in a neighboring town.
A local man is a truffle hunter in the nearby forest with one experienced truffle dog and one puppy in training. They find a huge truffle approximately six pounds. Should he sell it himself or give it to the village to sell and use the sale money to upgrade their little town.
News of this rare find blows up every media outlet and brings the rich and famous to the village for an auction. Most villagers are of one mind to help sell this masterpiece but sinister forces are also in the mix.
A truly remarkable story of these people and their marvelous truffle. Every character plays an important role in this story with unique personalities and various agendas. You’ll love them all, even the curmudgeons.
Only one chapter about the forest and truffles is overly descriptive, in my opinion. Please don’t let it stop you. The story is everything.
Thanks Edelweiss and Grand Central Publishing.
A small, ancient Italian village sits nestled in beautiful Tuscany. Villagers and their families have lived here for hundreds of years, and are loyal to their lineage.
Unfortunately, the village can no longer support economic growth with most shops and restaurants now closed.
They have one restaurant left that tourists skip but the locals love. One brother of two chefs runs this local restaurant while the other brother runs a Michelin star restaurant in a neighboring town.
A local man is a truffle hunter in the nearby forest with one experienced truffle dog and one puppy in training. They find a huge truffle approximately six pounds. Should he sell it himself or give it to the village to sell and use the sale money to upgrade their little town.
News of this rare find blows up every media outlet and brings the rich and famous to the village for an auction. Most villagers are of one mind to help sell this masterpiece but sinister forces are also in the mix.
A truly remarkable story of these people and their marvelous truffle. Every character plays an important role in this story with unique personalities and various agendas. You’ll love them all, even the curmudgeons.
Only one chapter about the forest and truffles is overly descriptive, in my opinion. Please don’t let it stop you. The story is everything.
Thanks Edelweiss and Grand Central Publishing.
February 7, 2025
TARTUFO е истинско книжно угощение! Започвайки от корицата, през мястото и героите, до стила на Kira Jane Buxton! Всеки, който е живял и живее в провинцията, било в малък град или в село, може да познае неволите на героите в книгата. Дори да не е средновековно тосканско село в полите на Алпе Тре Потенце или Прадо, селото си е село и бавно се обезлюдява, малкото му останали жители остаряват, а сградите и пътищата се рушат и износват. Крайпътните табели ръждясват и само някой любител на географията успява да отгатне точното име на мястото от останалите две - три читави букви. Туристите преминават през селото само, за да попитат за пътя към някоя близка атракция или известно място, достойно за снимки в инстаграм. А жителите на нечетливото село имат стари рецепти, пазени от своите баби и майки, с които да нагостят гости и да ги накарат да си оближат пръстите. Имат чист въздух и тишина, и гледка към старата камбанария на църквата на фона на планински връх - мамма мия!!! Но това не стига !
TARTUFO е като съчетание от италианска драма с панорамни гледки и Стара френска комедия с Луи дьо Фюнес. Истински случки, колоритни герои, сцени с автомобилна гонка ( като една от колите е триколесна веспа) по панорамни извити пътища. И едно магаре.
Не помня откога не се бях смяла така с книга! Може би от "Симон" на Нарине Абгарян! И пак така сълзите от смях преминават в тъга от истинските неволи на всеки един от нас, които се борят със социалните проблеми, натворени от някой горе, по стълбицата, и едновременно се опитват да живеят този живот тихо, спокойно и кротко, без големи изисквания и намерения. Някои запазват добротата в душите си, усмивката им е мила, макар и малко сбръчкана от годините и винаги са отворени към съселяните си. Други не успяват.
Когато в такова средновековно селце се появи възможност да се представи пред очите на пътуващите хора, а също възможност да се спечелят малко пари, за да се реанимира това - онова , как реагира всеки жител реагира ? И как прекалената набожност никога не е носела нищо добро нито на вярващите, нито на атеистите, но има начини да се справим с нея.
* " Fears don’t preven "
* " I hate this parade, this superficial delusion of what our village is, of what Italy is! A fever dream of Armani, Ferrari, and Aperol, when, in reality, none of us can afford those things. We struggle and suffocate under a corrupt parliament and politics, sky-high taxation, population implosion, unemployment and poverty, and I’m tired of the poetic lie that we are solely a land of art and cuisine and culture. We are more complex than a villa-with-a-view-and-a-pool holiday. "
* " ... in the land of love and lemons. "
* " One day, buildings and time-old traditions and loved ones will be gone. But moments tucked into a mind and held by the heart live on in a human. Tiny tucked-away treasures. "
TARTUFO е като съчетание от италианска драма с панорамни гледки и Стара френска комедия с Луи дьо Фюнес. Истински случки, колоритни герои, сцени с автомобилна гонка ( като една от колите е триколесна веспа) по панорамни извити пътища. И едно магаре.
Не помня откога не се бях смяла така с книга! Може би от "Симон" на Нарине Абгарян! И пак така сълзите от смях преминават в тъга от истинските неволи на всеки един от нас, които се борят със социалните проблеми, натворени от някой горе, по стълбицата, и едновременно се опитват да живеят този живот тихо, спокойно и кротко, без големи изисквания и намерения. Някои запазват добротата в душите си, усмивката им е мила, макар и малко сбръчкана от годините и винаги са отворени към съселяните си. Други не успяват.
Когато в такова средновековно селце се появи възможност да се представи пред очите на пътуващите хора, а също възможност да се спечелят малко пари, за да се реанимира това - онова , как реагира всеки жител реагира ? И как прекалената набожност никога не е носела нищо добро нито на вярващите, нито на атеистите, но има начини да се справим с нея.
* " Fears don’t preven "
* " I hate this parade, this superficial delusion of what our village is, of what Italy is! A fever dream of Armani, Ferrari, and Aperol, when, in reality, none of us can afford those things. We struggle and suffocate under a corrupt parliament and politics, sky-high taxation, population implosion, unemployment and poverty, and I’m tired of the poetic lie that we are solely a land of art and cuisine and culture. We are more complex than a villa-with-a-view-and-a-pool holiday. "
* " ... in the land of love and lemons. "
* " One day, buildings and time-old traditions and loved ones will be gone. But moments tucked into a mind and held by the heart live on in a human. Tiny tucked-away treasures. "
February 25, 2025
*3.5 Stars
I was pretty excited to get back into the mind of Kira Jane Buxton. After relishing the story of Shit Turd in the post-apocalyptic world in Hollow Kingdom, I’ve been eagerly awaiting more from this author. Tartufo was presented as a story set in small-town Tuscany, filled with eccentric characters and a story of a town slowly disappearing.
I decided to go with the Audible version of this story and that may have been a mistake. I found Caroline Hewitt’s narration distracting. Getting a story off to a great start is always important. Tartufo felt like it started off with nothing but Italian product name-drops and overexaggerated Italian pronunciations of those products. We’re going along with a good Audible narration voice and then out of the blue �CAPPUCCINO!� My start for Tartufo was that this was Buxton’s way of getting her publisher to pay for her Tuscan vacation. It is always difficult to recover from a bad start.
In the end, Buxton’s skill came through: her creation of characters. The characters were strong, each was unique and added value to the story. There were stereotypes and others who broke the mold. The characters held everything together.
The story was not up to par with Hollow Kingdom; I just didn’t get into the story like I wanted to. I found it lacking, in what, it is hard to say; it may have been the bad start.
I was pretty excited to get back into the mind of Kira Jane Buxton. After relishing the story of Shit Turd in the post-apocalyptic world in Hollow Kingdom, I’ve been eagerly awaiting more from this author. Tartufo was presented as a story set in small-town Tuscany, filled with eccentric characters and a story of a town slowly disappearing.
I decided to go with the Audible version of this story and that may have been a mistake. I found Caroline Hewitt’s narration distracting. Getting a story off to a great start is always important. Tartufo felt like it started off with nothing but Italian product name-drops and overexaggerated Italian pronunciations of those products. We’re going along with a good Audible narration voice and then out of the blue �CAPPUCCINO!� My start for Tartufo was that this was Buxton’s way of getting her publisher to pay for her Tuscan vacation. It is always difficult to recover from a bad start.
In the end, Buxton’s skill came through: her creation of characters. The characters were strong, each was unique and added value to the story. There were stereotypes and others who broke the mold. The characters held everything together.
The story was not up to par with Hollow Kingdom; I just didn’t get into the story like I wanted to. I found it lacking, in what, it is hard to say; it may have been the bad start.
March 12, 2025
3.75 stars
A tiny, near-bankrupt Tuscan village finds its fortunes taking a wild swing when a gruff local truffle hunter unearths what is undoubtedly the largest white truffle (tartufo) ever found and an international auction is staged, with the truffle expected to fetch—well, who can say how much? Gazillions! A charming read to while away the time, full of amusing if stereotypical Italian village types. Definitely had me salivating and wanting to revisit Tuscany!
A tiny, near-bankrupt Tuscan village finds its fortunes taking a wild swing when a gruff local truffle hunter unearths what is undoubtedly the largest white truffle (tartufo) ever found and an international auction is staged, with the truffle expected to fetch—well, who can say how much? Gazillions! A charming read to while away the time, full of amusing if stereotypical Italian village types. Definitely had me salivating and wanting to revisit Tuscany!
February 17, 2025
Clever, charming, and (mercifully) far less absurdist than I was expecting.
I really did not love Hollow Kingdom but decided to give Buxton’s work another try after seeing the premise for this one, and I’m so glad I did. This is just an infinitely better book, especially if (like me) you really hate nonsense fiction.
This is, to begin, actually very funny. It’s clever and a bit of a spoof without veering into full absurdism, and it’s also a very sweet story about friendship and companionship and how they don’t always show up in the forms we expect.
Despite all being a touch ridiculous save for our protagonist (the story’s straight man to his supporting cast’s comedic roles), the characters are fairly well developed and likable rather than irritating, as comic foils can unfortunately sometimes be.
My lone complaint is that this book is significantly too long for the style and type of story. I actually think all comic novels need to be short, but that’s especially true of anything that touches on farce.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I really did not love Hollow Kingdom but decided to give Buxton’s work another try after seeing the premise for this one, and I’m so glad I did. This is just an infinitely better book, especially if (like me) you really hate nonsense fiction.
This is, to begin, actually very funny. It’s clever and a bit of a spoof without veering into full absurdism, and it’s also a very sweet story about friendship and companionship and how they don’t always show up in the forms we expect.
Despite all being a touch ridiculous save for our protagonist (the story’s straight man to his supporting cast’s comedic roles), the characters are fairly well developed and likable rather than irritating, as comic foils can unfortunately sometimes be.
My lone complaint is that this book is significantly too long for the style and type of story. I actually think all comic novels need to be short, but that’s especially true of anything that touches on farce.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
October 30, 2024
This delicious delight of a novel packs a lot of punch.
The writing in this novel is colorful and fun, pungent.
The smell descriptions are really intense, especially about truffles!
A really fun read, with vivid writing and colorful, dear characters. Thanks for NerGalley for the opportunity to review and advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
“What does one do upon finding the world’s biggest epicurean diamond? Giovanni fears what he knows is to come. The truffle will incite hysteria, greed. Worst of all, danger. Tartufai—truffle hunters—have committed the most heinous of crimes over tartufi. Over forest territory, high-end buyers, the innocent dogs who find them. Where there be treasure, there be pirates.�
The writing in this novel is colorful and fun, pungent.
“Giuseppina leans on the bar itself, her bosom spilling over its surface like two jellyfish in a battle for hegemony. She idly molests the bar’s wooden surface with a rag, sighing loud enough to suggest some sort of respiratory distress.�
“The glowing blonde opens the sandwich, immediately spying the ham. She mimes a sad face, forms an angry cross with her fingers and then pushes her nose into a snout. “Ah, you are vegetarians!� roars Giuseppina. “How ridiculous! No wonder you are so skinny. I bet when you have sex, it’s like sticks rubbing together—you could catch fire!”�
The smell descriptions are really intense, especially about truffles!
“…she must home in for the hunt—swiftly tuning out soft-spoken smells—pheromones of flowers, quiet musk of moss, hay-like incense of hazelnuts buried by a forgetful squirrel. She must tune out the sinister. Screams of spilled boar semen and the flesh an owl let fall. Rusted tin roof smell of dried blood. And all around, trees releasing heady waves of resin, each as bright as a burst of laughter. Among all these stories is the one Aria is after. It starts as a flutter, a mere flirtation.�
“To Chef Umberto Micucci, success is the smell of a truffle. Woodsy reek. Garlic gas. Sweat on leather. An earthen umami cologne. Naughty sulfuric skunk of the finest marijuana. But what he smells now is knocking his socks off. A bomb has detonated in his cucina, diffusing the most intoxicating lust potion.�
“Bawdy puffs of cheese and semen and socks and wet grass and garlic and musk and madness and despair and dreams hit his nostrils.�
A really fun read, with vivid writing and colorful, dear characters. Thanks for NerGalley for the opportunity to review and advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2025
2.5 - Loved the concept and the setting... WAY too many characters. The story became muddled by trying to remember who was who.
December 31, 2024
This is a sweet story about a community banding together to lift each other up. The small, rural Italian village of Lazzarini Boscarino is in a financial crisis. The newly elected Mayor Delizia, who just eeked out a victory over a donkey named Maurizio, has uncovered the crisis - but it is local truffle hunter Giovanni who stumbles upon the village's saving grace (or curse in disguise) - a gigantic, pungent truffle.
The best part about this book is the quirky, loveable villagers and their relationships with one another. Seeing them bicker, banter, and lift each other up was so sweet.
The writing was extremely descriptive, with lots of tangents into the lives of the villagers or detailed descriptions of the scene settings. The Italian words, foods, smells, flowers, all had a cinematic and immersive effect - but it did sometimes go overboard, making the pacing feel off and creating some passages that were dense and hard to get through.
3.25 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this ARC to read and review
The best part about this book is the quirky, loveable villagers and their relationships with one another. Seeing them bicker, banter, and lift each other up was so sweet.
The writing was extremely descriptive, with lots of tangents into the lives of the villagers or detailed descriptions of the scene settings. The Italian words, foods, smells, flowers, all had a cinematic and immersive effect - but it did sometimes go overboard, making the pacing feel off and creating some passages that were dense and hard to get through.
3.25 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this ARC to read and review
September 2, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for my copy of this ebook.
From the moment I saw the author had a new book coming out several months ago, I was excited. I love Hollow Kingdom and couldn’t wait to read this new story about an Italian village.
Tartufo is definitely a fresh, new story and I loved it. She has a unique way of writing, very beautiful and descriptive, making you wish you were inside the story. I found myself wishing I was in the small Italian village, friends with the villagers, and could go on a truffle hunt myself. She writes animals so well, if you are an animal lover you are sure to love the personalities she creates for them in her stories.
I think the start of the book could be difficult for some, it is very descriptive but worth it to get a feel for the environment of the village. It is well worth it once you get into the adventures of the story. I could see myself rereading this one in the future.
From the moment I saw the author had a new book coming out several months ago, I was excited. I love Hollow Kingdom and couldn’t wait to read this new story about an Italian village.
Tartufo is definitely a fresh, new story and I loved it. She has a unique way of writing, very beautiful and descriptive, making you wish you were inside the story. I found myself wishing I was in the small Italian village, friends with the villagers, and could go on a truffle hunt myself. She writes animals so well, if you are an animal lover you are sure to love the personalities she creates for them in her stories.
I think the start of the book could be difficult for some, it is very descriptive but worth it to get a feel for the environment of the village. It is well worth it once you get into the adventures of the story. I could see myself rereading this one in the future.
September 14, 2024
The premise of this is lovely and it is definitely atmospheric and cozy. It is sort of like an Italian version of a hallmark movie with community members banding together to save their town from ruin but instead of a romance, there is an enormous truffle.
It is charming though I found it to be uneven, and with way too many characters (not all of them compelling). My interest would waver depending on who the chapter was focused on. I would recommend it to readers looking for an antic-filled comedy (though there are also a few tragedies) about the power of community.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy.
It is charming though I found it to be uneven, and with way too many characters (not all of them compelling). My interest would waver depending on who the chapter was focused on. I would recommend it to readers looking for an antic-filled comedy (though there are also a few tragedies) about the power of community.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy.
January 9, 2025
An absolutely charming story starring a hilarious and energetic cast of characters � and seriously, they are CHARACTERS � full of heart and love for each other, food, animals, and their Italian village. The village has no money, but clearly it is rich in other ways.
Kira Jane Buxton is a brilliant writer, weaving vivid descriptions of nature into each chapter that kept me totally entranced while still moving forward a plot that had me on the edge of my seat many times. There were many gasps and chuckles too. A completely fun and truly beautiful read.
Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing for this ARC. This is one I am certain I will read again.
Kira Jane Buxton is a brilliant writer, weaving vivid descriptions of nature into each chapter that kept me totally entranced while still moving forward a plot that had me on the edge of my seat many times. There were many gasps and chuckles too. A completely fun and truly beautiful read.
Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing for this ARC. This is one I am certain I will read again.
April 4, 2025
Tartufo is truffle in Italian. As Nonna Amara describes them
“Fungi are that important. And they do this work quietly, invisibly. Now, a truffle is the particular fruiting body of a particular fungus. It is the treasure of this kingdom. A subterranean jewel that only grows when there are good relationships underground between certain trees and fungi. Only when the soil is soft and the summer rains are just right. Only when there is a tree that is ready to form a partnership with the fungi and share food.� “This sounds like a folktale, Nonna.� “Yes, but this is all true.�
And this is an amazing truffle in a sad, dying, insolvent and yes, amazing Tuscan village in Kira Jane Buxton's most recent book . I knew it was going to be a fun and imaginative read because both of her other books, and were.
I couldn't wait to dive in. Reading it, I thought that she went a bit over the top in her descriptions and was in need of some restraint as the song says. Looking back on it, I fell in love with the village and the characters, who Buxton kindly presented in a character list at the end of the book. Buxton is especially good at developing the characters of the animals and I loved ever one of them in this book.
Buxton is quite familiar with Tuscany and the food there, as her parents have owned a house in a medieval Tuscan village for thirty years. She is also quite familiar with the food there and made me hungry with her descriptions in the book. I really wanted to try some breakfast bombolone with Nutella or perhaps some spaghetti all’assassina.
If you decide to read Tartufo, be forwarned that it is just a bit too much, but I encourage you to join in the fun and become part of this lovely village.
“Fungi are that important. And they do this work quietly, invisibly. Now, a truffle is the particular fruiting body of a particular fungus. It is the treasure of this kingdom. A subterranean jewel that only grows when there are good relationships underground between certain trees and fungi. Only when the soil is soft and the summer rains are just right. Only when there is a tree that is ready to form a partnership with the fungi and share food.� “This sounds like a folktale, Nonna.� “Yes, but this is all true.�
And this is an amazing truffle in a sad, dying, insolvent and yes, amazing Tuscan village in Kira Jane Buxton's most recent book . I knew it was going to be a fun and imaginative read because both of her other books, and were.
I couldn't wait to dive in. Reading it, I thought that she went a bit over the top in her descriptions and was in need of some restraint as the song says. Looking back on it, I fell in love with the village and the characters, who Buxton kindly presented in a character list at the end of the book. Buxton is especially good at developing the characters of the animals and I loved ever one of them in this book.
Buxton is quite familiar with Tuscany and the food there, as her parents have owned a house in a medieval Tuscan village for thirty years. She is also quite familiar with the food there and made me hungry with her descriptions in the book. I really wanted to try some breakfast bombolone with Nutella or perhaps some spaghetti all’assassina.
If you decide to read Tartufo, be forwarned that it is just a bit too much, but I encourage you to join in the fun and become part of this lovely village.
January 28, 2025
Want to be utterly charmed? Transported to a small village in Tuscany? Be wrapped up in small dramas and experience the power of a truffle?
Have I got a book for you.
Tartufo means truffle in Italian and it’s the only thing that’s going to save the small town of Lazzarini Boscarino from destitution. Lazzarini used to be a Tuscan tourist stop but years of bad luck and bad upkeep has left much to be desired and soon there will be very little left but the boisterous townspeople, until one day local truffle hunter Giovanni finds what appears to be the largest truffle in the world. Worth six figures this pungent treasure just might save it all.
This was exactly the book I needed, its heart warming, funny, full of quirky raucous characters. It reads almost like an Italian tella novella, there is no shortage of micro dramas and high jinx fun.
If you’re looking for a laugh, to be charmed or a little vacation from the seat of your favorite chair then pick up this colorful gem.
Have I got a book for you.
Tartufo means truffle in Italian and it’s the only thing that’s going to save the small town of Lazzarini Boscarino from destitution. Lazzarini used to be a Tuscan tourist stop but years of bad luck and bad upkeep has left much to be desired and soon there will be very little left but the boisterous townspeople, until one day local truffle hunter Giovanni finds what appears to be the largest truffle in the world. Worth six figures this pungent treasure just might save it all.
This was exactly the book I needed, its heart warming, funny, full of quirky raucous characters. It reads almost like an Italian tella novella, there is no shortage of micro dramas and high jinx fun.
If you’re looking for a laugh, to be charmed or a little vacation from the seat of your favorite chair then pick up this colorful gem.
March 23, 2025
just pure innocent fun
February 10, 2025
So charming, sensual and immersive, my only regret is that I am unable to smell and this book is dazzling in scents.
March 4, 2025
This was such a quick, fun, refreshing delightful read. The writing is so unique and enjoyable! And the cast of funny Italian characters was charming!
February 6, 2025
Is Giuseppina my favorite fictional character of all time? Was I laughing out loud within the first few paragraphs that she was introduced? YES.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 348 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.