Commissario Brunetti

Donna Leon
Started in 1992
5 Books

About the Series

The 'Commissario Brunetti' series follows the life and investigations of Guido Brunetti, a thoughtful and principled police commissioner in Venice, Italy. The series is renowned for its rich depictions of Venetian culture and its exploration of social and moral issues. Each book combines intricate mysteries with insights into the lives of the characters, often evoking the beautiful yet complex backdrop of Venice. Through Brunetti's cases, readers are introduced to the city's history, politics, and the often murky waters of human behavior.

Series Details

  • Author:Donna Leon
  • Started:1992
  • Books:5
  • Status:Complete

Genres

MysteryCrime FictionThrillerLiterary Fiction

Themes

Justice and MoralityCorruptionFamily and RelationshipsCultural IdentityEnvironmental Issues

Books in Order

1

Death at La Fenice

1992

In this first book of the series, Commissario Brunetti investigates the murder of a famous conductor during a performance at Venice's renowned opera house, La Fenice. As he delves into the world of classical music and the personal lives of the suspects, Brunetti uncovers secrets that challenge his own moral compass.

Series StartCore Series
2

Death in a Strange Country

1993

Brunetti is called to investigate the death of an American soldier whose body is found in a canal. As he navigates the political tensions between Italy and the U.S., he uncovers a web of corruption and betrayal that extends beyond Venice, challenging his beliefs about loyalty and justice.

Core Series
3

The Anonymous Venetian

1994

In this gripping tale, Brunetti is faced with a murder case that leads him into the depths of Venice's criminal underworld. The investigation reveals the dark side of the city, as Brunetti grapples with the limits of the law and the moral implications of his choices.

Core Series
4

A Venetian Reckoning

1999

When a woman is found dead in her apartment, Brunetti is drawn into a case that exposes the hidden tensions in Venetian society. As he digs deeper, he confronts issues of immigration, class disparity, and the ghosts of the past that haunt the city.

Core Series
5

The Girl of His Dreams

2009

Brunetti's latest case involves the disappearance of a young girl, which leads him to confront the unsettling realities of child exploitation in Venice. This poignant narrative not only highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement but also the resilience of the human spirit.

Core Series

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Commissario Brunetti?

Commissario Guido Brunetti is the main character in Donna Leon's series, a dedicated and principled policeman who navigates the complexities of crime and morality in Venice.

Is the 'Commissario Brunetti' series connected?

Yes, each book in the series features Commissario Brunetti as he investigates different cases, but they can be read independently without losing the essence of the narratives.

What makes the 'Commissario Brunetti' series unique?

The series is celebrated for its rich portrayal of Venetian culture, its intricate plots, and its deep exploration of social and ethical issues, making it more than just a typical crime fiction series.

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