- This new Donna Leon novel totally lives up to the high standard set by her previous thirty-three books in the Commissario Brunetti series. It has all the character and immense charm her fanbase have come to expect.
- I've read about half the series, and although she's now at Biden age, she still delivers in spades.
- All the novels are set in the magical city of Venice. There are lovely family relationships; there's great coffee and wonderful food (particularly pasta); there's excellent wine in welcoming neighbourhood bars; she takes us inside the historic public buildings and private apartments; we walk the canals, cross the bridges, and ride in the boats. And we hate the tourists who crowd the public spaces with noise and common vulgarity.
- Leon does not shy from critiquing social and political issues in the series. Brunetti is hardworking, idealistic and ethical. He and his colleagues are a team of professionals with high standards of behaviour. But he's also frequently critical of his higher ranking bosses. This is Italy after all. It's a country steeped in political conflict and corruption.
- In this novel the drama has its origins twenty years previously when Italian troops were sent to assist their US allies in the Iraq war. As part of the contingent were a team of Carabinieri, a prestige division of the Italian police force. Some of their members profited from stealing and exporting historical artworks and relics of high value.
- Leon paints a picture of today's Venice - increasing crime, including violent youth gangs. But the higher-ups in the police are very protective of their reputation. Uncomfortable details are buried, and previous corrupt and criminal behaviour lied about.
- This iteration of her Brunetti series is as good as it gets. It's not just an enjoyable read. It has a hard edge which undoubtedly is a reflection of our times.
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