A new year. A new year filled with great must-read, must-own books.

We’ll start with Beneath the Mountain (Harper, $16.99), a propulsive, psychological thriller that’s perfect to read by the fire with a glass of red wine. The book is the completely engrossing and deeply atmospheric debut from Luca D’Andrea . . .  an exhilarating story of dangerous obsessions, writerly ambitions and small-town secrets, set against an eerie Italian landscape. 

Che meraviglia!

We refuse to give away too much of the brilliant plot. But we will tell you this: New York City native Jeremiah Salinger is one half of a hot-shot documentary team when, fresh off the success of the most recent season of his hit reality show, he leaves that life behind to move with his family to the remote Italian village where his wife grew up. Nestled in the Dolomites, the small town of Siebenhoch is part of the Alto Adige, a breathtaking region with a lingering Austrian identity, an ancient dialect and a clear distaste for outsiders. Seeking inspiration, he wanders the streets only to overhear a conversation that gives his life renewed focus. In 1985, three students were brutally murdered but their killer was never found.  Salinger is sure this horrific crime has the makings of a great story and immerses himself in the case that has haunted a community for decades. Little does he know, the secrets he uncovers may threaten his sanity . . . 

Critics and readers are drawing worthy comparisons to Stephen King’s classic horror novels and Stieg Larsson’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series,. Yep. It’s true. Yet it’s all itself, a  this page-turner will transport you to the snowy Italian mountains and leave you breathless with its quiet power.