by Donna Leon
Part of Commissario Brunetti, book 12
First published 2004
Commissario Guido Brunetti discovers a student's body hanging in Venice's exclusive military academy. The dead boy is the son of Dr. Moro, a respected physician and former Parliament member known for his rare integrity in Italian politics. Both parents reject suicide as the cause, yet neither will assist Brunetti's investigation. The case strikes Brunetti personally since he fathers a young son himself. With help from the clever Signorina Elettra and support from his wife Paola, Brunetti digs into Dr. Moro's political past and the breakdown of his marriage. He uncovers troubling details about a hunting accident involving Signora Moro and the subsequent collapse of their relationship. The military closes ranks to protect its members while civilians refuse to speak. Brunetti faces a wall of silence that may stem from typical Italian distrust of authorities or something far more sinister. The investigation pulls him deep into the turbulent politics surrounding Italy's powerful elite.
Genres: mystery, crime, detective, political-thriller
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, family-secrets, investigation
Setting: Italy, Venice, Military Academy
294 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Penguin Books