Tuaca Tan

Franki Amato Mysteries, Book 8

By: Traci Andrighetti

Narrated by: Madeline Mrozek

Parading for Mardi Gras is no party....

When PI Franki Amato was invited to watch her 60-something landlady, Glenda, compete at the French Quarter’s annual kickoff to Mardi Gras weekend, she had reservations. After all, the event is called the Greasing of the Poles, and Glenda is an ex-stripper. But she never expected the fun event to turn her world upside down—and, literally, the victim’s. Now instead of hunting for a wedding venue with her honey, Franki’s hunting for a killer. The trail seems to lead to the wealthy board of the Krewe of Clotho, a carnival organization of women whose character is nowhere near as impeccable as their blonde hair, tan outfits, and old New Orleans ancestry. As members begin dropping like beads from Bourbon Street balconies, Franki has to crack clues as murky as the krewe’s signature milk punch brunch drink. Otherwise, this Mardi Gras parade could be her last.

Tuaca Tan is book 8 in the Franki Amato Mysteries, but it can be listened to as a standalone. If you like zany characters and laugh-out-loud humor with a splash of suspense, then you’ll drink up this fun series by USA Today best-selling author Traci Andrighetti. Cheers!

Franki Amato Mysteries:

Limoncello Yellow (Book 1)
Prosecco Pink (Book 2)
Amaretto Amber (Book 3)
Campari Crimson (Book 4)
Galliano Gold (Book 5)
Marsala Maroon (Book 6)
Valpolicella Violet (Book 7)
Nocino Noir (a novella)
Tuaca Tan (Book 8)

To find out what Franki’s up to between the books, join Traci’s newsletter at traciandrighetti.com to get the Franki Amato Mini Mysteries for free!

"Andrighetti’s dialogue is genuine yet uproarious, and her glowing characters animatedly leap off the page. Her sparkling wit keeps the hijinks brimming with merriment." (Long Island Book Reviews)

“Traci Andrighetti’s Franki Amato Mysteries have me tickled pink! Her smart, sassy heroine, wacky cast of characters, and vividly original settings had me glued to the page. I can’t wait to read more from this author!” (Gemma Halliday, New York Times best-selling author)

“Traci’s writing is sharp and funny; the world she paints leaps off the page and makes the reader laugh out loud…. A thoroughly enjoyable voice in fiction!” (Kristin Harmel, New York Times best-selling author)

©2023 Traci Andrighetti (P)2023 Traci Andrighetti

Narration shows vibrant personalities

Set against the backdrop of New Orleans’ lively festivities, this cozy mystery blends light humor and a touch of quirkiness, creating a charming atmosphere that keeps the tone lighthearted and enjoyable throughout.

The story unfolds with the intriguing premise of a man being poisoned during the vibrant tradition of greasing the poles in preparation for Mardi Gras. As the plot thickens, readers are introduced to a captivating array of characters, each adding their unique flair to the narrative. From the witty detective with a penchant for solving mysteries to a colorful cast of suspects, the diverse personalities lend depth and excitement to the unfolding events.

While the humor may venture into the raunchy territory, it is balanced with a sense of playfulness that keeps the tone engaging. However, it is worth noting that some instances of body shaming may deter sensitive readers.

Despite these occasional distractions, the core mystery remains compelling, enticing listeners to join Franki on her quest to unravel the truth behind the poisoning.

The audiobook benefits greatly from Madeline Mrozek’s exceptional narration, where she skillfully brings a diverse cast of characters to life. With her remarkable talent, she seamlessly embodies each character, lending them distinct voices and vibrant personalities. Her interpretations add a level of depth and immersion to the story that truly enhances the overall experience.

In conclusion, this audiobook offers a delightful blend of cozy mystery, an enchanting New Orleans backdrop, a diverse cast of characters, and an atmospheric setting. While it might not suit every taste, the combination of an engaging storyline, quirky humor, and a compelling mystery is a treat worth savoring.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Wild ride

Traci Andrighetti is very talented! I really enjoyed this one. I haven't read the rest of the series and I would recommend that you do read, or listen to, those first. I had a little trouble figuring out who the characters were in the beginning. It was a fun listen and I really liked Madeline Mrozek as the narrator. Lots of twists and turns kept me guessing until the end about " whodunnit". Nona made me laugh out loud! She's terrific! This is a fun ride that I recommend. Thank you to the author and Audible for a free copy to review. Don't miss this one!

Another Great Installment

I discovered this series a few years ago and binged on the first several books, but I now have to wait for the new release each year. One of the things I really like about this series is that the characters can be fun and funny, and still grow and learn. So often I feel authors don't let their characters develop and change, so as a series continues I find the books to be too predictable. In this series, the characters are allowed to change and grow without to stories losing the laugh-out-loud funniness that first drew me in. As others have said, the narration is amazing, which only makes the Audible version worth the wait!

Paralyzing Parade!

Overall another fun book - Kudos Traci for writing and to narrator Maddy! Great team!

Just the pros n cons -

Pros - I adore Franki and Im constantly rooting for her (and Brad) A rollercoaster ride through the French Quarter!

Cons - I dislike Ruth in this particular book. (she goes from hysterically funny to crude! I wish Frank would stand up for herself more!

Glenda is still my fave character! AHHH! J'adore!


Overall a fun addition to the series. I magical glimpse into the Big Easy!

Cheers mystery lovers! Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Love the narrator, quirky mystery

This mystery picks up with Franki involved in the lead up to Mardi Gras. There’s suspected murder, then another and … another and Franki is kept running around following clues, and trying to control other areas of her life at home and at work. Through it all, she follows the clues to the killer.

The narrator is great with different voices and accents. She manages Traci’s alliterations and puns with ease. But don’t forget to wait till the end to listen to the blooper reel. Very funny.

Laugh out loud funny!

I have listened to almost all of the books in this series read by the same narrator. She does the best job ever! This book has something going on all the time with quirky characters to enjoy. I found myself laughing out loud as I was listening while taking a walk or cooking in the kitchen! Very fun and enjoyable! Can’t wait for the wedding! I love the Italian family dynamics & of course the romance. The mystery was a good one! I don’t know much about Mardi Gras in New Orleans, but it was fun to get a look behind the scenes! I received a gift code from the author, and was delighted to write a review that is completely my own opinion.

Another Great from this author

So hilarious, I loved it! Narrator really brings the book to life and you are transported there. I love this author and look forward to her next book. I was given a copy of this book and voluntary give this review.

Another great Frankie story

I enjoy all of the colorful funny characters of these books and love the New Orleans feel. The narrator is easy to listen to.

A Crazy Story

I had a fun time listening to this story if you love New Orleans you will enjoy. There are lots of twists and I didn’t guess who done it till the end

Laugh out loud funny!

Love Traci’s books and this series! Madeline is one of my very favorite narrator’s! She brings the characters to life like no other!
The cultural history, is also fun to learn about!