There are also the various criminals and suspects in Leon's novels. They range from petty thieves to more sophisticated and devious wrongdoers. These characters are well - drawn, each with their own motives and backstories that make the mystery - solving aspect of the novels engaging.
As of July 2023, 'So Shall You Reap' is one of her relatively recent novels. It features her well - known character, Commissario Guido Brunetti, and is set in Venice, as are most of her works. The story likely involves Brunetti investigating a mystery while also exploring the complex social and cultural fabric of the city.
The first Donna Leon novel is 'Death at La Fenice'. Leon's writing in this first book is characterized by her sharp observations of Venetian society. The plot is engaging as it weaves together the elements of the opera world, the city's social hierarchies, and the mystery of a death. The character of Brunetti is immediately likable, and his investigative methods, which are often influenced by his understanding of human nature and the local culture, make for an interesting read.
One of the highly regarded Donna Leon novels is 'Death at La Fenice'. It's a great start to get into her Commissario Brunetti series, with its vivid portrayal of Venice and an engaging mystery.
The main character is Guido Brunetti. He is the central figure in most of the novels. He represents the voice of justice in Venice. His character is not just about solving crimes but also about his internal struggles and his love for his city.
The latest Brunetti novel by Donna Leon is 'The Temptation of Forgiveness'. In this novel, Donna Leon continues to explore the Venetian setting and the complex character of Brunetti. His investigations are as engaging as ever, with the added layer of exploring themes of forgiveness and justice. The story unfolds with Brunetti's usual attention to detail and his deep understanding of the people and the city around him. It's a great read for fans of the series.
Well, I highly recommend 'The Girl of His Dreams'. It has an interesting plot that revolves around Brunetti's family as well as a mystery he has to solve. Also, 'Uniform Justice' is a good pick. It takes the reader outside of Venice a bit but still has the elements of mystery and Brunetti's sharp detective work that are characteristic of Donna Leon's novels.
Social issues are also prominent themes. In 'Give Unto Others', Donna Leon touches on issues like inequality and the abuse of power. The actions and investigations of Brunetti often lead to revelations about the underlying problems in Venetian society. And of course, the theme of human relationships is there. In all her latest novels, the relationships between Brunetti and his family, colleagues, and the suspects he deals with are complex and multi - faceted, adding depth to the stories.
As of July 2023, Donna Leon has many novels. But to know the very latest one, it might be best to follow book review platforms like Goodreads. They often feature the newest releases and can give you the title as well as some initial reviews to pique your interest.