A moody mystery set in Italy from the New York Times–bestselling author: “One of the most exquisite and subtle detective series ever.” —The Washington Post Guido Brunetti has to deal every day with crimes big and small, suffocating corruption, and a never-ending influx of tourists. But at least he gets to do it in Venice, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. In this mystery in the … world. In this mystery in the bestselling series, the police commissioner’s endurance will truly be tested.
During an interrogation of an entitled, arrogant man suspected of giving drugs to a young girl, Brunetti acts rashly, doing something he will quickly come to regret. In the fallout, he realizes that he needs a break. Granted leave from the Questura, he accompanies his wife to a villa on Sant’Erasmo, one of the largest islands in the laguna. There he intends to pass his days rowing, and his nights reading Pliny’s Natural History. That is until the caretaker of the house, a widowed beekeeper, goes missing following a sudden storm, and Brunetti must set aside his leave of absence and understand what happened to a man who had become a friend.
From a Silver Dagger Award–winning author, this is a poignant novel featuring Guido Brunetti, “a superb police detective—calm, deliberate, and insightful” (Library Journal).
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Fan of Donna Leon. This book takes place in Venice so it gives you some
insight into the area. This is not a scary, gory mystery but is about the
characters in the story — who they are and how got to where they are and
ultimately how they played a part in the crime.
I have read many books in this series. I found this one different because it described the lagoons and the people who live by them. The description of rowing through the lagoons was great.
I love her books and her characters, each and every one. WELL written and never a false step. And it never hurts that they are set in Venice and the nearby islands.
This is a. Fabulous series of police procedurals that take place in the fascinating city of Venice, Italy. The protagonist is a Commisario, and the reader meets his family, his boss, his associates, even his in-laws. The casual remarks about the food will have you yearning to join him for a meal. The crimes are a commentary on the complicated social problems, and government of modern Italy. Written by an ex-pat American who has lived in the area for more than two decades.
There is much to learn about the island cultures off the famous shores of Venice, and there is much to understand in this story that reveals a hidden Guido Brunetti. This is the most of poignant of Leon’s stories and a must-read.
Donna Leon in Italy always entertains and intrigues!
Donna Leon is a favorite author. She has mastered the setting and the spirit of the place with characters that fit.
Donna Leon’s characters catch your interest with their realism; and the family dynamics are entertaining. This was a great continuation of her series, although the ending was tragic. As always, Venice shines in all her work.
Very descriptive – feel like I’ve been to Venice!
Wonderful writing. I love this series. I even don’t mind rereading them. I miss my visits to Venice so this brings back memories too.
Brunette takes a more-than-well-earned vacation, on an island…. don’t you know, murder ensues. Donna Leon does it again: takes a well-loved character and melds a current global issue to him and makes it real. Love it.
Not her best.
It’s my old friend Guido Brunetti and his excellent crime solving skills. There were a couple interesting twists.
This Donna Leon’s series is a favorite of mine.
I’m a fan of Leon’s books, but this one just didn’t match quality of previous ones. Maybe that was because it wasn’t an actual mystery.
:ove Venice. Love this author.
I have read every book in this series. I have come to feel like many of the characters are old friends. Donna Leon knows Venice well and shares that knowledge to set a believable setting. This newest book was very original and introduced the reader to an unknown part of Venice. Brunetti is a very likeable detective with a heart & soul.
donna leon just gets better and better
Well written story with interesting characters and plot. One of Leon’s best.
I first saw the TV adaptation. The book is much better. The characters are more developed and face real life situations with real life decisions. It ends as life does, justice does not always triumph.