I really need to start reading book descriptions because sometimes I just don’t get things. Here’s the deal: I looked at this cover—great author, check; great cover, check; historical romance, check. But I kept reading the title wrong, and I just didn’t get it. Ohhh, but how I get it now. So much so that I just clicked purchase on the prequel, Undercover Wish. I didn’t read that description either. Not necessary—I know everything I need to know. But first, let’s talk all about Eyewitness Sketch.
About the Book
Eyewitness Sketch by Danielle Grandinetti
Series: Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency – Book 1
Publisher: Hearth Spot Press
Release Date: March 10, 2026
Genre: 1930s Historical Romantic Mystery
Finding love at Death’s Door might destroy them both.
CHICAGO, Ill., 1931—Gabriella Salatino, an illustrative journalist for the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency, never planned to return to her island home at the tip of Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula. Nor did she plan to witness a murder. But when her life is threatened, she has no choice but to hide out under the protective care of the man she left behind.
Deputy Andri Jóhannsson has been coming to Gabby’s rescue his entire life, but having her in his secluded home tests the limits of his patience. The woman has no sense of self-preservation, and he has a smuggling ring to ferret out. Except, her skill with sketchpad and pencils might be the very investigative tool he needs in order to catch the bootleggers.
With a murderer on her trail and criminals evading detection, Gabriella and Andri must set aside the past or risk its eruption. Because this time, the collateral damage might include more than losing their friendship. It might cost them the lives of those they love.
La Verità con Integrità. Truth with Integrity. The Legacy of a (Girl) Stunt Reporter.
PURCHASE LINKS:
Goodreads | Buy Direct from the Author | Amazon
Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub
My Review and Reflections
What a lovely read! Suspense, intrigue, and just the right amount of romance. With every page turn you’re greeted with writing that just flows and draws you in.
I love reading about life in the 1930s. While it was a time racked with hardships, it was still an era when people dressed for dinner, appearing proper was important, and women started expressing themselves more. Danielle’s book is filled with these moments that captivate you and make you long for a simpler, and perhaps more formal, atmosphere (she says while writing this in her pajamas).
What I Loved About These Characters
Gabriella is strong but also timid and afraid to show her strength. She is ready to take on more and is finding her footing in a world that has been turned upside down for her one too many times. Gabby, as she’s called by her childhood friends, is ready for both love and a career beyond the typical women’s work available during those years, making her realistic for modern readers but also courageous and empowering for those who like to immerse themselves in the time period.
Being able to see Andri’s inner thoughts painted a clearer picture of who he is. If I had only had Gabriella’s impression, I would have been quite nervous for her. But we’re quick to see that Andri is a protector with a heart. One that can be easily broken despite how his large stature might make him appear.
“Gabriella Salatino would be the death of him.
She was the only girl who could wiggle under his skin like a burr.
She was also the only woman he genuinely enjoyed being around.”
p. 20
The secondary characters were all strong and I found myself hem hawing on whodunit. It was a total mix up of scenarios and incorporated so many elements into one big surprise. Of course, that wasn’t the total end because we all want that happily ever after and it was delivered in a way that put a smile on my face and warmed my heart.
Why You Might Enjoy This Book
Danielle’s mysteries are at this wonderful in between place. Not quite cozy but not so suspenseful that your nerves are frazzled. They make for the perfect snuggle up with a cat and a blanket kind of read. Eyewitness Sketch is no exception and just like that, I’m hooked into a new series. If you enjoy second chance romances with only a smooch, or two, you will be drawn in. If you enjoy a little mystery and intrigue, you won’t be able to put this down.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author via JustRead Publicity Tours.
All opinions are my own.
More in this Series
About the Author
Danielle Grandinetti writes award-winning 1930s historical romance filled with mystery, suspense, and hope. She is a second-generation Italian-American rooted in Midwest traditions. Fueled by tea, books, and the creative beauty of nature, her stories explore love and belonging in hard times. Find her online at daniellegrandinetti.com.
I can’t wait to read the prequel and continue on with this series. It feels like I connected with it at the right time in my life. Things are quite hectic and this is a wonderful series to take the edge off these hurried times.
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