A beautiful young woman, since an accident condemned to the life of a seven-year-old girl and a grand-mother who cannot believe in the accident – Commissario Guido Brunetti’s 25th case differs quite from the ones before. What happened in that night 15 years before when Manuela only survived a fall in the Venetian waters because a drunkard sprang after her and risked her life? Why is this man now stabbed? Obviously there is something hidden in the young woman’s damaged brain and in the memory of Venetians and now seems to be the time to let it all out.

As with all the novels before, you can just sit down and rely while reading about the Venetian upper class living in palazzi and ignoring everyday hardships we know. Brunetti solves his case assisted by lovely and underestimated Elettra who once more shows hidden talents. Also the commissario’s family has a role to play which lead into the depth of mafia doings in Italy and the slight but relevant difference between foreigners and foreigners. Venice itself with the special setup of the city is again wonderfully integrated not just as the set for the plot, but plays an integral role in the action.

All in all, Donna Leon and her famous protagonist have not lost their appeal and can convince once more.