A small Italian village, a quirky cast of characters, and a giant white truffle bring together a hilarious novel that is so much more than it seems.

With humourous animal characters, and humans dealing with loss, longing, and life, the reader is transported to a small Italian village and rooting for this village to return from the brink of death.

This would be an excellent book to read with a book club as there are so many aspects that different people will identify with. I just want to discuss it with someone!

I started this as an audiobook, which I found very helpful for pronunciation and understanding some of the nicknames. If you are unfamiliar with Italian, this may be a good idea.

Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and Net Galley for the DRC. All opinions are my own!

This was such a unique and sweet story. I don’t know which was more adorable, the characters or the small Italian village.
I’m a sucker for books written in Tuscan scenery.
I’m even more a sucker for a group of well written, adorable characters thrown together for a common goal. This books has all that and lots of humor and sweet moments along the way. Loved it. So fun.
I went into this book blind and was pleasantly surprised, I recommend doing the same.
Thank you netgalley for the ARC and libro.fm for the listen! (Loved the Italian accents)

Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I can’t remember the last time I had this much fun reading a book. Kira Jane Buxton’s debut novel, Hollow Kingdom, was quirky and witty and unique but not high on my list of favorites. Tartufo, however, takes the same witty quirky angle and infuses it with a lyrical, poetic flow that I found purely delightful, an amazing sign of growth for the author’s craft. The characters are so much fun and so well defined and fleshed out (though of course larger than life caricatures to fit the tone) while the love and commitment they have to each other is more real because of their size. The book is just brimming with gorgeous turns of phrase and vivid, visceral descriptions. If you don’t enjoy books that spend a good amount of time in rich description of smells and tastes then this won’t be for you. I didn’t even know there were so many amazing ways to describe scents.

Overall a quick delightful funny quirky read I look forward to reading again.

Tartufo by Kira Jane Burton 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. Burton’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 Burton’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 Burton 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.

Thank you Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley for this arc.

I read the blurb and thought, this sounds delightful. Having finished the book, I would love to see it as a movie as the writing is very visual. I’m not sure how the POV scenes from a surly pregnant cat (Al Pacino), two loving truffle hunting dogs (Aria and Fagiolo), a bee, a spider, and an ant (all unnamed) would be handled but they must be in it, too.

Before getting started, I would urge possible readers to search for and read an excerpt. Decide if this is a writing style you can live with. The initial chapters are also daunting as a whole host of characters and their relationships will be tossed at you.

I list the tag “found family” but really this is already basically an already established family of villagers who have been through tough times as they watch older friends and family pass, businesses close, young people leave, and debts mount. Sure there is a bit of snipping and snarling at times as what group of people always get along? But they will – usually – stick together.

But then truffle hunter Giovanni and his two dogs discover the motherload. A white truffle of this size could potentially be auctioned off for enough money to save the village. To do so, the villagers need someone with connections and soon the ball is rolling. To get to the “finish line” though everyone needs to pull together which is something that they have a hard time doing since soon old grudges, worries, and relationships are tested.

The truffle might be the center of attention but the book is really about the relationships. It takes a while to set the stage, introduce the characters, and get going but once I was caught up in this world, I let the delicious writing, delicious food, and overall love carry me home. Going into the rich forest with Aria and Fagiolo is delightful. Watching Al Pacino terrify her enemies is hilarious. Giuseppina at all times but especially visiting Madame Fortuna is a treat. Nonna Amara is the beloved grandmother we all wish we could have while Delizia is the mayor we all need.

Brava that the end is not quite what I expected even as the tension mounted. Salvation does appear to be headed towards the village but also, not as I expected. Though perhaps the way it might arrive is a bit more believable. I finished the book wrapped in smiles even if, at times, the writing took a bit to wend my way through. B

I requested this eARC based off the cover alone and honestly didn't even read the synopsis before reading, just went in blind.... and I really, really enjoyed it! PHEW, right? 😅 This was a delightfully fun romp of a read, perfect for when you're off on holiday, perhaps need a palette cleanser from your previous reads, or even if you are simply just looking for some wholesome vibes— TARTUFO manages to cover all those bases and then some. I loved the cozy, small Tuscan village setting, the quirky* cast of characters (*the fun kind, not the insufferable kind haha), and just.... the overall story emanated and had such a strong sense of warmth to it that I can't fully explain but very much felt throughout reading. Buxton's writing style is very creative and unique imo, particularly in how she chooses to describe things/people/places; some may find her prose to be a be overly wordy and perhaps a bit superfluous..... but I am definitely NOT one of those people and we all *know* this about me also (as in, I eat this kind of sh*t UP lmao), so just something worth noting for those who may feel otherwise. I could definitely see myself re-reading this book in the future, and I look forward to what Buxton comes out with next!

artufo…more like Truffufo!

This is the story of a quaint little town in Italy that discovers a magnificent truffle that can change the fate of the town. As the truffle goes missing, follow the drama of all the quirky people in the town. Will the truffle be found and still be magnificent or will it be consumed with a spritz along the way!

Thank you NetGalley for the Arc!

This book is fun and different from other books I have read recently, so I enjoyed it! It takes place in a very small town in Italy and has a unique cast of characters in the small town. It has humor, and we get a variety of points of views (including a dogs which is fun!). I loved the Italian setting and I loved the description of the large truffle that was found. I wanted to find out what happens to the town and the truffle and so I had to keep reading! This book is highly recommended for people that like character driven novels in small Italian towns!

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.

Tartufo by Kira Jane Buxton is a recommended farcical tale tale, highly for the right reader, involving a giant truffle. The rural Tuscan village of Lazzarini Boscarin is in decline when local truffle hunter Giovanni Scarpazza finds a giant truffle, un tartufo. The worth of truffle has the power to change the course of the village by both helping the citizens and revive interest in visiting it. A large cast of colorful characters from the village come to life in this over-the-top humorous novel.

It is helpful that the cast of characters are listed at the beginning of the narrative so readers can follow who everyone is and all the connections between them. Honestly, there are almost too many characters, all of the quirky but not all of them play an essential role in the novel. Some of this unrestrained writing style is also found in the excessive descriptive passages. At first I appreciated it, until it began to grate and got in the way of actually telling the story and slowed the pace and my appreciation of the novel down.

There is an interesting story woven in all the excesses, which made it an average okay novel for me. Perhaps those who like the author's writing style will appreciate Tartufo more. Thanks to Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The review will be published on Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

A very charming book!

It takes a while to get into, because the writing style is so different, so the first ~15-20% felt like a bit of a slog. Still, the writing grew on me, and in the end I think it suited the story quite well. The story of this giant truffle--the Tartufo--is told via the perspectives of the inhabitants of the town in which it was found. It's written in the third person, but each chapter focuses on a different person (or sometimes people). While you do get to know a few characters a little more intimately, like Giovanni, Delizia, and Giuseppina, this isn't the story of any given character. It's the story of the town, Lazzarini Boscarino, and I think the way it was written does a really good job of getting you acquainted with the entire town. By the end of the novel, I knew enough of the town gossip that I felt I could practically live in Lazzarini Boscarino myself. The few characters Buxton does put more of a focus on are all incredibly interesting and well written, and really help you better understand the human microcosms within the macrocosm that is the town (I know that my phrasing there was really weird, but if you read the book you'll get it, OK!?). I think the comedy in this book was also (surprisingly) pretty strong. I wouldn't call it a "funny" book, but it's definitely written with a more comical tone, and I think that tone does a lot to add to the warmth and humanity of this novel. Still, the comedy never detracts from the more serious, tender moments, and some scenes really plucked at my heartstrings.

This book does drop a fair amount of Italian around, which makes sense, given that it is set in Italy. However, I've heard that sometimes reading books that randomly throw around a second language sometimes make the speakers of that language feel a little disconcerted. So. If you speak Italian, uh. maybe skip this one if you're one of those people?

Overall, I think this book is really, really strong. It feels very... human. Not perfect, but it's got a bunch of tender, soulful moments. Plus it kind of made me want to move to a small, struggling town in the Italian countryside. Huh.

I was unable to finish this book and thus will not be posting a full review. I found the writing stilted and uninteresting. Thank you for the opportunity.

Tartufo is a delightful mix of truffle documentary, cultural commentary, and Italian soap opera. It’s funny and rich, deep and thoughtful. I was more drawn in by the conversations and interactions of the villagers than the anthropomorphic animals and insects. The creatures acted as segues and good vehicles for describing the countryside, but became predictable breaks in an otherwise moving story.

The story revolves around Mayor Delizia Miccuci and the small village of Lazzarini Boscarino. Their little town has few visitors but that is about to change.

Local truffle hunter Giovanni Scarpazza has just found the mother of all truffles or tartufo.
Cast of characters, including a cat named Al Pacino make this a fun read.

I requested this book after having enjoyed Kira Jane Buxton's quirky and fun Hollow KIngdom. LIke Hollow Kingdom, this novel is really out there with the zaniness, so be prepared. Unlike Hollow Kingdom, this one is a slower burn and takes a minute to get into. Her writing style is very distinctive and fans will enjoy this latest installment. But, if you're new to Buxton, I would recommend trying Hollow Kingdom as a first read.

A different kind of story filled with quirky characters is set in a small Tuscany town. The residents have seen the younger generation leaving, and the local businesses closing. When Giovanni, a truffle hunter, finds an enormous white truffle, the Mayor of the town, Delizia, sees an opportunity toy to raise money for the town. There are some funny moments, some heartwarming, with extensive descriptions of nature and the environment. I liked it. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Tartufo is a light read about an aging Italian town who are gifted with a truffle that can change their fate. Based on the premise, I was hoping for a quirky and fun story, but it got bogged down with a few too many characters and a slow start.

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.

Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this ARC to read and review

A large cast of characters, including several animals, come together to save a faltering community with the help of an enormous truffle. Florid prose and outrageous characters make this good for fans of charming fiction.

I absolutely LOVED Hollow Kingdom and Feral Creatures by this author and was so excited to receive an ARC of her new novel (thank you, NetGalley and Grand Central). I was a little concerned about the book description, however. It sounded awfully cozy for an author who wrote an extremely snarky, apocalyptic book about a domesticated crow named Shit Turd. Well, I didn't get very far into this one before I gave up. I was drowning in alliterative adjectives (sigh, I couldn't help it). The chapters are long and, at least in the beginning of the book, they are filled with endless, overdone descriptions about everything. EVERYTHING. I couldn't see the forest through all of the overly described trees and knew this book wasn't for me. I don't mind a cozy novel, but I have my limits. I'm giving this 2 stars despite not finishing it, mostly because there is a female cat named Al Pacino (which seems to be the only reminder of Buxton's signature snark).