- If you're a fan of Donna Leon's Commissario Brunetti mysteries you'll enjoy this one for sure. It's exceptionally well plotted, unlike some of her many previous ones in the series.
- It’s the genuine Italian atmosphere that so attracts me to Leon's novels - the streets, cafes, food, apartments, and the weary, politically cynical, hospitality staff. She conveys the intricacies of the police and Venetian administration processes with confidence and undoubted expertise. And the Venetians stick together. They are a particular tribe of Italian, and they loathe the tourists that dominate every facet of their city experience. Even non-Venetian Italians are 'foreigners', especially Southerners.
- Commissario Guido Brunetti is a senior police officer and he has many interactions with his colleagues. It’s gratifying to read about the professional and personal dynamics of their workplace. That’s so rare in fiction. The same familiar characters feature in each novel, which is just such a pleasure. His loving wife and two children are also front and centre, as is the wonderful food they cook and share. Brunetti is a reader of the Greek classics from which he gets constant inspiration.
- Leon lives in Venice and adores the city and its immeasurable charms. Her affection shows on virtually every page.
- If you haven't read any of Donna Leon's books, this latest will undoubtedly suck you in. It's her best.
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