brutal things

Donna Leon

'The book is written with the deep reflection on crime and humanity that characterizes Leone's best work.' Independent

'A brilliant and atmospheric novel... After 21 books, [Lyonne] has lost none of her skill and delightful wit.' Evening Standard

When a body is found floating in a canal, strangely mutilated and bearing multiple stab wounds, Commissioner Brunetti is called in to investigate. He's convinced he recognizes the man from somewhere, but with a pair of distinctive shoes as the only evidence, the case can't progress.

Brunetti recalls a violent farmers' protest the previous year and suddenly remembers the victim. But what was his involvement in the protest, and what was his connection to his murder? Based on this fragile evidence, Brunetti and Inspector Vianilio embark on an investigation that will lead them from the tranquil canals of Venice to the slaughterhouse, into a terrifying world of extortion and corruption.

A gripping tale and harrowing exploration of the dark side of the Italian food industry, Donna Leone's latest novel is a wonderful addition to the Brunetti series.