What do you think?
Rate this book
Commissario Brunetti #30
Transient Desires
In his many years as a commissario, Guido Brunetti has seen all manner of crime and known intuitively how to navigate the various pathways in his native city, Venice, to discover the person responsible. Now, in Transient Desires, the thirtieth novel in Donna Leon's masterful series, he faces a heinous crime committed outside his jurisdiction. He is drawn in innocently two young American women have been badly injured in a boating accident, joy riding in the Laguna with two young Italians. However, Brunetti's curiosity is aroused by the behavior of the young men, who abandoned the victims after taking them to the hospital. If the injuries were the result of an accident, why did they want to avoid association with it?As Brunetti and his colleague, Claudia Griffoni, investigate the incident, they discover that one of the young men works for a man rumored to be involved in more sinister nighttime activities in the Laguna. To get to the bottom of what proves to be a gut-wrenching case, Brunetti needs to enlist the help of both the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Costiera. Determining how much trust he and Griffoni can put in these unfamiliar colleagues adds to the difficulty of solving a peculiarly horrible crime whose perpetrators are technologically brilliant and ruthlessly organized.
Donna Leon's Transient Desires is as powerful as any novel she has written, testing Brunetti to his limits and forcing him to listen very carefully for the truth.
Donna Leon's Transient Desires is as powerful as any novel she has written, testing Brunetti to his limits and forcing him to listen very carefully for the truth.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 4, 2021
1,059 people are currently reading
3,242 people want to read
About the author
Donna Leon
107 books2,816 followersDonna Leon (born September 29, 1942, in Montclair, New Jersey) is an American author of a series of crime novels set in Venice and featuring the fictional hero Commissario Guido Brunetti.
Donna Leon has lived in Venice for over twenty-five years. She has worked as a lecturer in English Literature for the University of Maryland University College - Europe (UMUC-Europe) in Italy, then as a Professor from 1981 to 1999 at the american military base of Vicenza (Italy) and a writer.
Her crime novels are all situated in or near Venice. They are written in English and translated into many foreign languages, although not, by her request, into Italian. Her ninth Brunetti novel, Friends in High Places, won the Crime Writers' Association Silver Dagger in 2000.
Series:
* Commissario Brunetti
Donna Leon has lived in Venice for over twenty-five years. She has worked as a lecturer in English Literature for the University of Maryland University College - Europe (UMUC-Europe) in Italy, then as a Professor from 1981 to 1999 at the american military base of Vicenza (Italy) and a writer.
Her crime novels are all situated in or near Venice. They are written in English and translated into many foreign languages, although not, by her request, into Italian. Her ninth Brunetti novel, Friends in High Places, won the Crime Writers' Association Silver Dagger in 2000.
Series:
* Commissario Brunetti
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 928 reviews
August 4, 2022
Review first published on mysteryandsuspense.com
For the thirtieth time Donna Leon takes us to Venice, with its multitude of picturesque canals and grand palazzos but also its somewhat hidden criminal underbelly. This is the working patch of Commissario Guido Brunetti, a senior policeman who was brought up in this unique place and who still lives and works in the city. Regular readers will be used to the fact that these books profile the place, its ways and its people as much as any investigation Brunetti is engaged in, and in fact it sometimes takes a while to figure out precisely what crime is to be the focus of Guido’s attentions.
This time he is alerted to the fact that two injured and unconscious American girls have been left on the dock of the city hospital in the dead of night. Cameras at the hospital have caught the act and it isn’t long before two young local men have been identified as the perpetrators. But why would they do such a thing - is it simply the result of a reckless accident whilst joy riding or is there something darker going on here?
It seems that the Commissario’s case load is light at present as he’s able to devote virtually his full attention to this case, aided by his colleague Claudia Griffoni. Claudia has made regular appearances in recent instalments and the fact that she is a native of the southern city of Naples provides an ideal vehicle for the author to explore the potential for suspicion and discord between people from the different regions of this culturally diverse country. It’s not that Guido and Claudia aren’t friends – they are – it’s just that one has the benefit of being able to chatter away to the locals in Veneziano whilst the other is perceived to be a shifty Neapolitan, unworthy of the same degree of trust.
In between regular breaks for a coffee, and perhaps a brioche or too, Brunetti and Griffoni gradually come to realise that there are significant nefarious acts lurking in the shadows of this case. As always, Leon is able to bring a strong sense of local colour to proceedings. This is not a hundred miles an hour kick ass and solve the crime caper, it takes a slower, more mellow route. Along the way there is plenty of discussion about family, nepotism, love and loyalty and how these elements impact the way life is lived in this city, but make no mistake this tale still packs a significant punch. As the pieces finally fall into place we’re treated to an exciting and, to me, shocking finale.
If you’re in the mood for a thoughtful dose of crime fiction with a bit of culture mixed in, look no further.
My thanks to Grove Atlantic and NetGalley for supplying a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
For the thirtieth time Donna Leon takes us to Venice, with its multitude of picturesque canals and grand palazzos but also its somewhat hidden criminal underbelly. This is the working patch of Commissario Guido Brunetti, a senior policeman who was brought up in this unique place and who still lives and works in the city. Regular readers will be used to the fact that these books profile the place, its ways and its people as much as any investigation Brunetti is engaged in, and in fact it sometimes takes a while to figure out precisely what crime is to be the focus of Guido’s attentions.
This time he is alerted to the fact that two injured and unconscious American girls have been left on the dock of the city hospital in the dead of night. Cameras at the hospital have caught the act and it isn’t long before two young local men have been identified as the perpetrators. But why would they do such a thing - is it simply the result of a reckless accident whilst joy riding or is there something darker going on here?
It seems that the Commissario’s case load is light at present as he’s able to devote virtually his full attention to this case, aided by his colleague Claudia Griffoni. Claudia has made regular appearances in recent instalments and the fact that she is a native of the southern city of Naples provides an ideal vehicle for the author to explore the potential for suspicion and discord between people from the different regions of this culturally diverse country. It’s not that Guido and Claudia aren’t friends – they are – it’s just that one has the benefit of being able to chatter away to the locals in Veneziano whilst the other is perceived to be a shifty Neapolitan, unworthy of the same degree of trust.
In between regular breaks for a coffee, and perhaps a brioche or too, Brunetti and Griffoni gradually come to realise that there are significant nefarious acts lurking in the shadows of this case. As always, Leon is able to bring a strong sense of local colour to proceedings. This is not a hundred miles an hour kick ass and solve the crime caper, it takes a slower, more mellow route. Along the way there is plenty of discussion about family, nepotism, love and loyalty and how these elements impact the way life is lived in this city, but make no mistake this tale still packs a significant punch. As the pieces finally fall into place we’re treated to an exciting and, to me, shocking finale.
If you’re in the mood for a thoughtful dose of crime fiction with a bit of culture mixed in, look no further.
My thanks to Grove Atlantic and NetGalley for supplying a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
March 11, 2021
This is a tough book to rate as while I love the series this one falls flat. The main characters are becoming shells of their former selves in that Leon is not imbuing them with any depth of motivation. If you don't know the characters, and their respective backstories, they will appear as just words on a page in this book.
Also, it took about 50% of the book for the story to get going, and when it did, it was much more like the earlier books in the series. Finally, the ending was so abrupt that I turned the final page expecting there to be more. I re-read the last few pages several times, and still it was an unsatisfying ending.
Also, it took about 50% of the book for the story to get going, and when it did, it was much more like the earlier books in the series. Finally, the ending was so abrupt that I turned the final page expecting there to be more. I re-read the last few pages several times, and still it was an unsatisfying ending.
December 18, 2020
Review published in: https://diagnosisbookaholic.blogspot....
"Transient Desires" marks the 30th installment (30th!) in the Commissario Brunetti Series, and that just made me realize that I've been reading this series for over 20 years! More than half my life! Each yearly meeting with Brunetti and Co. feels like meeting back with that friend you don't see often but when you finally do feels like no time has passed at all.
After being slightly disappointed with the latest books in the series, in "Transient Desires" Donna Leon is back to form, turning what in appearance was a minor crime into a much serious one. Unlike in her last books, here the story takes off practically from page one, when Brunetti finds out about two young American women that have been badly injured in a boating accident in the Laguna. To get to the bottom of the case he must enlist the help of the Carabinieri and the Guardia Costiera. Although it was nice watching him work with some new colleagues, I missed seeing more of Vianello, Patta and, of course, Signorina Elettra.
The plot goes revealing its layers as the story progresses, and although it's not a whodunit where we don't know the "who" till the end, it managed to kept my attention as the important thing to find out is if that person will face justice or not. Everything leads to a last couple of chapters that kept me biting my nails and, although the end was quite abrupt (I had to check several times there was no more pages in the file), that's been quite the norm in Leon's last novels, so it didn't come as a surprise cause, as justice itself, it may not always be satisfying.
Once again Leon shows her ability to paint the city of Venice, allowing the reader to see it through the eyes of those who live there, and her skill in creating complex characters brought to life vividly.
Thanks to NetGalley and Atlantic Monthly Press for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
"Transient Desires" marks the 30th installment (30th!) in the Commissario Brunetti Series, and that just made me realize that I've been reading this series for over 20 years! More than half my life! Each yearly meeting with Brunetti and Co. feels like meeting back with that friend you don't see often but when you finally do feels like no time has passed at all.
After being slightly disappointed with the latest books in the series, in "Transient Desires" Donna Leon is back to form, turning what in appearance was a minor crime into a much serious one. Unlike in her last books, here the story takes off practically from page one, when Brunetti finds out about two young American women that have been badly injured in a boating accident in the Laguna. To get to the bottom of the case he must enlist the help of the Carabinieri and the Guardia Costiera. Although it was nice watching him work with some new colleagues, I missed seeing more of Vianello, Patta and, of course, Signorina Elettra.
The plot goes revealing its layers as the story progresses, and although it's not a whodunit where we don't know the "who" till the end, it managed to kept my attention as the important thing to find out is if that person will face justice or not. Everything leads to a last couple of chapters that kept me biting my nails and, although the end was quite abrupt (I had to check several times there was no more pages in the file), that's been quite the norm in Leon's last novels, so it didn't come as a surprise cause, as justice itself, it may not always be satisfying.
Once again Leon shows her ability to paint the city of Venice, allowing the reader to see it through the eyes of those who live there, and her skill in creating complex characters brought to life vividly.
Thanks to NetGalley and Atlantic Monthly Press for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2024
How much do I love these books? Brunetti and his family are so real to me that when the pandemic hit Italy and the lockdown was imposed in Venice, my first reaction was "Oh, no, I hope the Brunettis will be okay!"
I don't know if Leon will bring the pandemic into her next book, but here Venice is still okay, and this book has a lot less of the darkness--ecological woes and the Disneyfication of Venice--that most of her recent books have had. It has other dark themes, but not so much as to really send you reeling.
I am bothered though by how Leon has swung away from the staff at the Questura to focus on Claudia Griffoni, who has become Brunetti's frequent partner. She's a great character but I miss Signora Elettra, who is seldom on stage and never has much to say or do anymore. I miss Brunetti's interchanges with Vianello and Puccetti. I miss the pompous Vice Questore Patta, and the bumbling Alivse. And where is Scarpa--did Elettra finally find a way to oust him?
So good, definitely better than some of the other recent volumes, but still not the Brunetti I adore.
I don't know if Leon will bring the pandemic into her next book, but here Venice is still okay, and this book has a lot less of the darkness--ecological woes and the Disneyfication of Venice--that most of her recent books have had. It has other dark themes, but not so much as to really send you reeling.
I am bothered though by how Leon has swung away from the staff at the Questura to focus on Claudia Griffoni, who has become Brunetti's frequent partner. She's a great character but I miss Signora Elettra, who is seldom on stage and never has much to say or do anymore. I miss Brunetti's interchanges with Vianello and Puccetti. I miss the pompous Vice Questore Patta, and the bumbling Alivse. And where is Scarpa--did Elettra finally find a way to oust him?
So good, definitely better than some of the other recent volumes, but still not the Brunetti I adore.
March 25, 2021
Amazing to think that the 30th book of a series is one of... if not the best book. Leon uses economy of events and characters to focus sharply on doing something about a cruel criminal that has been running roughshod far too long without consequences. Efficient plotting mastered! I will not spoil book for others. There are brief nods to the usual characters such as Signorina Elettra, Brunetti's family members at the dining table, Henry James books for his wife, but otherwise the main theme is in sharp focus and beautifully executed.
December 20, 2020
As a fan of this series I found the pace slow and the narrative plain. The actual plot starts after 50% and then concludes abruptly. As always I like the description of Venice and the food. Otherwise I couldn’t find anything much of interest.
May 22, 2021
What the heck!...
I have read all of Donna Leon’s books so far and enjoyed them all with the exception of this book – I am left feeling angry and frustrated this is the worst ending which just leaves one hanging in incompleteness - is this so to bring about a purchase of her next book? The last chapter ends abruptly with the reader expecting at least another paragraph. I am very, very disappointed and I cannot recommend this book because of this. What in the world...? Perhaps Ms. Leon fell ill thus did not finish and the editor noticed it not? Disappointing.
I have read all of Donna Leon’s books so far and enjoyed them all with the exception of this book – I am left feeling angry and frustrated this is the worst ending which just leaves one hanging in incompleteness - is this so to bring about a purchase of her next book? The last chapter ends abruptly with the reader expecting at least another paragraph. I am very, very disappointed and I cannot recommend this book because of this. What in the world...? Perhaps Ms. Leon fell ill thus did not finish and the editor noticed it not? Disappointing.
May 15, 2022
One of the things I enjoy about these novels is the conversations Brunetti has with his wife and children (now young adults) exploring various current events. The topic of downloading programs and films is discussed in this volume. The children argue that “because the programs and films didn’t belong to a specific person no-one would be hurt if they were not paid for.” Brunetti argues from the viewpoint of copyright laws. However, after discovering that there is no single author in this case and as the multinational corporation “owned huge palm oil plantations in Indonesia” the children conclude that the company has no “moral right to profit.”
I love that Brunetti’s family are a family of readers and they discuss books they are reading together. One afternoon, Brunetti arrives home from work, kicks off his shoes and lays down on the couch to start a new book. “Brunetti had always preferred to read while horizontal. His habit was probably the result of the poverty of his family. A child who loved reading and was raised in a house that was heated minimally if at all during the winter would perforce develop the habit of reading in bed.” Even now, when he lives in a more luxurious home, he still finds that he can concentrate better when lying prone with a book “propped on his chest.”
We learn more about Brunetti’s methods and those of his colleagues at the Questura (police force in Venice). For example, “From long experience Brunetti knew that Signorina Elettra viewed a piece of information much in the way a shark viewed a leg dangling from a surfboard.”
Then, during an interview, “’You’re Venetian, you know how it is: you touch the web there,’ Alaimo said.” Here, he indicates the distance to another spot before adding, ‘And it trembles here. Especially - if I might add - on the Giudecca.’
Brunetti nodded, then asked, ‘What have you learned?’” And then, he and Griffoni wait. They wait a long time. I appreciate how they don’t try to fill the silence. Instead, they wait patiently for Alaimo to gather his thoughts. Even as Alaimo resumes his narrative, “The two commissario remained silent, motionless.”
During a serious conversation with his wife, Paola, they discuss possible alternatives to his stressful career dealing with the terrible things people do to one another. Brunetti answers the question of what else he is qualified to do after pondering for some time, “‘I’d like to live in the country and work the land.’ His wife of many years, the true reader of his heart, looked at him in open-mouthed surprise and was, for one of the few times in their marriage, incapable of speech.” It will be interesting to see if Donna Leon takes this idea further in future volumes, or if it is nothing but a pipe dream.
I love that Brunetti’s family are a family of readers and they discuss books they are reading together. One afternoon, Brunetti arrives home from work, kicks off his shoes and lays down on the couch to start a new book. “Brunetti had always preferred to read while horizontal. His habit was probably the result of the poverty of his family. A child who loved reading and was raised in a house that was heated minimally if at all during the winter would perforce develop the habit of reading in bed.” Even now, when he lives in a more luxurious home, he still finds that he can concentrate better when lying prone with a book “propped on his chest.”
We learn more about Brunetti’s methods and those of his colleagues at the Questura (police force in Venice). For example, “From long experience Brunetti knew that Signorina Elettra viewed a piece of information much in the way a shark viewed a leg dangling from a surfboard.”
Then, during an interview, “’You’re Venetian, you know how it is: you touch the web there,’ Alaimo said.” Here, he indicates the distance to another spot before adding, ‘And it trembles here. Especially - if I might add - on the Giudecca.’
Brunetti nodded, then asked, ‘What have you learned?’” And then, he and Griffoni wait. They wait a long time. I appreciate how they don’t try to fill the silence. Instead, they wait patiently for Alaimo to gather his thoughts. Even as Alaimo resumes his narrative, “The two commissario remained silent, motionless.”
During a serious conversation with his wife, Paola, they discuss possible alternatives to his stressful career dealing with the terrible things people do to one another. Brunetti answers the question of what else he is qualified to do after pondering for some time, “‘I’d like to live in the country and work the land.’ His wife of many years, the true reader of his heart, looked at him in open-mouthed surprise and was, for one of the few times in their marriage, incapable of speech.” It will be interesting to see if Donna Leon takes this idea further in future volumes, or if it is nothing but a pipe dream.
March 13, 2021
This was not one of Leon’s best. It was a slow and rambling start. The mystery was not particularly mysterious and the ending was so abrupt, I thought the printer omitted a chapter. I have been a big fan of Brunetti, his family, and his colleagues. But in this entry, they are mere shadows of their former selves. And where was Viannello?
February 11, 2021
This is another addition (already 30th!) to the series about commissario Guido Brunetti, which will appeal to fans of the series, as well as readers for whom it will be the first meeting with this Venetian policeman.
As always in this series, we can be sure that Venice will not only be an active background for this story, but also inextricably intertwined with the case solved by Brunetti. And this is not the image of Venice that we know from tourist guides, but the real Venice. Full of both beautiful, old architecture and dark, dangerous alleys and squares trampled by the feet of millions of tourists about whom real Venetians speak almost contemptuously. It is indeed a very Venetian story. The picture of Venice is very vivid. You feel like you could easily walk through the streets and cruise through the canals mentioned in this book. And in my opinion that is always part of the magic of this series.
Likewise, the case that Brunetti is working on is deeply immersed in the atmosphere of the city and its specificity. Even if it may seem like any other at first. However, both this case and the way Brunetti works are closely related to the unique climate of Venice and its inhabitants. As for me, I really like it when the setting place is such a large part of the whole story. And here it is done very well.
Another thing I like about this story is its light and funny tone. Usually it is nothing obvious, rather a wink at the reader. But there are also definitely comic moments when you just can't help laughing out loud and Brunetti becomes a very comic character.
Overall, fans of this series will not be disappointed, Brunetti is definitely in great shape. He is funny and inquisitive, but also not without his innate sensitivity. His life and personal thoughts and experiences constitute a significant background to the entire story and the way the case is solved. He is an excellent hero for a series that has already reached its thirtieth book; there is no chance that we will get bored soon.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of the series as well as new readers who would like to see the crimes in Venice through the eyes of the seasoned policeman Brunetti.
Thanks to NetGalley and Grove Atlantic for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As always in this series, we can be sure that Venice will not only be an active background for this story, but also inextricably intertwined with the case solved by Brunetti. And this is not the image of Venice that we know from tourist guides, but the real Venice. Full of both beautiful, old architecture and dark, dangerous alleys and squares trampled by the feet of millions of tourists about whom real Venetians speak almost contemptuously. It is indeed a very Venetian story. The picture of Venice is very vivid. You feel like you could easily walk through the streets and cruise through the canals mentioned in this book. And in my opinion that is always part of the magic of this series.
Likewise, the case that Brunetti is working on is deeply immersed in the atmosphere of the city and its specificity. Even if it may seem like any other at first. However, both this case and the way Brunetti works are closely related to the unique climate of Venice and its inhabitants. As for me, I really like it when the setting place is such a large part of the whole story. And here it is done very well.
Another thing I like about this story is its light and funny tone. Usually it is nothing obvious, rather a wink at the reader. But there are also definitely comic moments when you just can't help laughing out loud and Brunetti becomes a very comic character.
Overall, fans of this series will not be disappointed, Brunetti is definitely in great shape. He is funny and inquisitive, but also not without his innate sensitivity. His life and personal thoughts and experiences constitute a significant background to the entire story and the way the case is solved. He is an excellent hero for a series that has already reached its thirtieth book; there is no chance that we will get bored soon.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of the series as well as new readers who would like to see the crimes in Venice through the eyes of the seasoned policeman Brunetti.
Thanks to NetGalley and Grove Atlantic for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2021
Intrigue and crime in Venice.
In this thirtieth volume looking at police procedurals and crime in Venice fewer tourists are in evidence given the pandemic. However in this latest work from Leon two young American women are injured in a boating incident on the Laguna, one dreadfully. They are deposited on the quay outside the Emergency Room of the Ospedale Civile, dropped by two young men in the launch. This all requires investigation. A number of problems have arisen.
The enquiry becomes complicated. One of the men in the boat is the nephew of Pietro Borgato, owner of a large International transport company, who whilst he's never been caught, is suspected of being involved in various smuggling operations.
Commissario Guido Brunetti is as ever erudite and thoughtful. Napoletana Claudia Griffons, Brunetti’s colleague is a shrewd successful woman working in a male dominated world. They work well together.
As the case evolves we have the coast guard becoming part of the action (that is interesting)
the Nigerian mafia is made mention of and things become very twist and cloak and daggerish. Mention of empty cruise ships and lack of tourists place this mystery fairly and sqaurely in the now.
On the home front, the children are becoming older and there's interesting discussions around the table.
This case raises many questions for Brunetti especially as his children are getting older.
I love Brunetti and this latest walk with him didn't disappoint.
I love the glimpses of Venice we view through Leon's prism. I always had the romantic idea of living in Venice for a few months--the most I managed was a few days, but I loved every moment.
Reading about Brunetti extends that love affair--every time! Even if it's gritty and edgy adding another yet layer.
A Grove Atlantic ARC via NetGalley
In this thirtieth volume looking at police procedurals and crime in Venice fewer tourists are in evidence given the pandemic. However in this latest work from Leon two young American women are injured in a boating incident on the Laguna, one dreadfully. They are deposited on the quay outside the Emergency Room of the Ospedale Civile, dropped by two young men in the launch. This all requires investigation. A number of problems have arisen.
The enquiry becomes complicated. One of the men in the boat is the nephew of Pietro Borgato, owner of a large International transport company, who whilst he's never been caught, is suspected of being involved in various smuggling operations.
Commissario Guido Brunetti is as ever erudite and thoughtful. Napoletana Claudia Griffons, Brunetti’s colleague is a shrewd successful woman working in a male dominated world. They work well together.
As the case evolves we have the coast guard becoming part of the action (that is interesting)
the Nigerian mafia is made mention of and things become very twist and cloak and daggerish. Mention of empty cruise ships and lack of tourists place this mystery fairly and sqaurely in the now.
On the home front, the children are becoming older and there's interesting discussions around the table.
This case raises many questions for Brunetti especially as his children are getting older.
I love Brunetti and this latest walk with him didn't disappoint.
I love the glimpses of Venice we view through Leon's prism. I always had the romantic idea of living in Venice for a few months--the most I managed was a few days, but I loved every moment.
Reading about Brunetti extends that love affair--every time! Even if it's gritty and edgy adding another yet layer.
A Grove Atlantic ARC via NetGalley
March 20, 2021
Every 5 novels in this series or maybe about 1 in 6, Leon gets more serious and exposes more of the gangrene without putting a nice bandage of Guido /Paola civility and culture over it. This was one.
It's actually very close to a full 4 star, but the last 3 have been so outstanding that I couldn't round it up. Not only in the discussions with the older now teenage kids at dinner, but in other aspects here- Guido is parsing and positing what is the huge fallacy again and again in their thinking, argument, government process etc. BUT, to me there is a big but here. Guido is a stern lawful and always staunch supporter of both reality and appropriate consequences for not only law breaking and/or evil actions, but also for the double sided hypocrisies in words that shield them. And here, he just, IMHO, doesn't square that judgment (of his daughter's attitude especially) with enough of the true data. Rhetoric is nice. Tallus quoting superb to counter it! But at times, it should be the exposure of the nitty-gritty TO the ignorant that should also not be omitted.
This is about corruption. And also prejudice. Done with a very, very light hand and immense intellectual and historic support from literature, surroundings of the past etc. And I super, super appreciate Leon's taking this one on. Perhaps she should get the 4th star just for that alone. Yes, I think I will change it.
3.5 stars- rounded up for the Guido Brunetti going fully around the crux in the road that will expose possibly more than his employers or even his own culture would wont him to do. And essentially far more than Paola would fane to desire. She is left speechless. Really.
Leon gets her stabs at religion and the Church in particular in there too. More than the 1 or 2 spot average in each book of NOW HAVING HIT THE #30 mark.
Guido does some excellent acting in this one. He plays a kind of Columbo role (with cast off clothing and the same stained trench coat) in order to get his Venezia dialect and idiot bureaucratic bumbler questions answered.
This one has huge maritime aspects- those were 5 star. We are on the canals constantly and also have many eyes of boat/ ship workers and drivers, in both the laguna and in the Adriatic. Foa is excellent as always. Claudia Griffoni is full blown prime character center in this one. She plays the Napoli vulgar fawning former street urchin with full sway and accent too to get access in this one.
There were certain aspects of this, especially to her association job seeking patterns, that I wish Leon could have done much better. But then I am from Chicago and know much more than she does about that, most probably. Corruption with all its lowly step-sisters. Each with birthing illegitimate offspring bureaucracies each and every year. (Is there another sticker or stamp or toll card or whatever new again this year? Of course, there is.) Do working people get decimated in time and in funds just BECAUSE they work. Of course, they do.
Real slavery exists. Today. On every continent. Is this book anti-woke? Partially, but never as strongly as I would have wished it to be. Especially not in regards to sex trafficking and movements from one country to another as being "refugee" or some other category when they are absolutely not that at all.
All hail Donna Leon! As much as I read, she is the only author I can absolutely say got to number 30 in a series without one stinker in the midst. Not even close. And there were at least 3 perfect 5's in there too, with immense substance to them. Beyond the cultural beauty and core of hubris so Venizia well earned.
And who has aged and advanced in context every single aspect of the characters AND the place in which they live too. In every one of these 30 books, people are core real too. They age and they change. And they also gather grief and broken pieces exactly as humans who live long periods do.
In this one she comments several times about Venice. During Covid the tourist trade has imploded on top of all the rest of the tragedy. She states well that the natives got their worst wish granted. Fewer on the bridges etc. She says you can count the people in San Marco standing in one place in a minute. And that the decades length reconstruction of San Lorenzo is completed. No longer a church but a type of gallery, museum. The sadness of change is EMBEDDED in this one. You can taste it.
Be happy before you start this book. It is exceptionally melancholy. And the core that binds the entire book is friendship. And how friendships of great length are altered over long decades time. Especially man to man friendships from boyhood. All kinds. Do I hear her!
It's actually very close to a full 4 star, but the last 3 have been so outstanding that I couldn't round it up. Not only in the discussions with the older now teenage kids at dinner, but in other aspects here- Guido is parsing and positing what is the huge fallacy again and again in their thinking, argument, government process etc. BUT, to me there is a big but here. Guido is a stern lawful and always staunch supporter of both reality and appropriate consequences for not only law breaking and/or evil actions, but also for the double sided hypocrisies in words that shield them. And here, he just, IMHO, doesn't square that judgment (of his daughter's attitude especially) with enough of the true data. Rhetoric is nice. Tallus quoting superb to counter it! But at times, it should be the exposure of the nitty-gritty TO the ignorant that should also not be omitted.
This is about corruption. And also prejudice. Done with a very, very light hand and immense intellectual and historic support from literature, surroundings of the past etc. And I super, super appreciate Leon's taking this one on. Perhaps she should get the 4th star just for that alone. Yes, I think I will change it.
3.5 stars- rounded up for the Guido Brunetti going fully around the crux in the road that will expose possibly more than his employers or even his own culture would wont him to do. And essentially far more than Paola would fane to desire. She is left speechless. Really.
Leon gets her stabs at religion and the Church in particular in there too. More than the 1 or 2 spot average in each book of NOW HAVING HIT THE #30 mark.
Guido does some excellent acting in this one. He plays a kind of Columbo role (with cast off clothing and the same stained trench coat) in order to get his Venezia dialect and idiot bureaucratic bumbler questions answered.
This one has huge maritime aspects- those were 5 star. We are on the canals constantly and also have many eyes of boat/ ship workers and drivers, in both the laguna and in the Adriatic. Foa is excellent as always. Claudia Griffoni is full blown prime character center in this one. She plays the Napoli vulgar fawning former street urchin with full sway and accent too to get access in this one.
There were certain aspects of this, especially to her association job seeking patterns, that I wish Leon could have done much better. But then I am from Chicago and know much more than she does about that, most probably. Corruption with all its lowly step-sisters. Each with birthing illegitimate offspring bureaucracies each and every year. (Is there another sticker or stamp or toll card or whatever new again this year? Of course, there is.) Do working people get decimated in time and in funds just BECAUSE they work. Of course, they do.
Real slavery exists. Today. On every continent. Is this book anti-woke? Partially, but never as strongly as I would have wished it to be. Especially not in regards to sex trafficking and movements from one country to another as being "refugee" or some other category when they are absolutely not that at all.
All hail Donna Leon! As much as I read, she is the only author I can absolutely say got to number 30 in a series without one stinker in the midst. Not even close. And there were at least 3 perfect 5's in there too, with immense substance to them. Beyond the cultural beauty and core of hubris so Venizia well earned.
And who has aged and advanced in context every single aspect of the characters AND the place in which they live too. In every one of these 30 books, people are core real too. They age and they change. And they also gather grief and broken pieces exactly as humans who live long periods do.
In this one she comments several times about Venice. During Covid the tourist trade has imploded on top of all the rest of the tragedy. She states well that the natives got their worst wish granted. Fewer on the bridges etc. She says you can count the people in San Marco standing in one place in a minute. And that the decades length reconstruction of San Lorenzo is completed. No longer a church but a type of gallery, museum. The sadness of change is EMBEDDED in this one. You can taste it.
Be happy before you start this book. It is exceptionally melancholy. And the core that binds the entire book is friendship. And how friendships of great length are altered over long decades time. Especially man to man friendships from boyhood. All kinds. Do I hear her!
June 24, 2024
This is the 30th book in Donna Leon’s Guido Brunetti series. I believe I have read all the 29 previous ones. It was while reading a review of her latest instalment (#33) that I realized that I hadn’t read the latest ones. When they were published on kindle they were too expensive, and my library didn’t start carrying the ebook versions immediately; then I forgot about them until I read the review of the newest one and realized that I needed to catch up.
This was a period, also, when I mentally wasn’t ready for another challenging read. With the Brunetti series, you know what you will get—a picturesque tour of Venice; quiet philosophy; a crime, yes, but no brutal violence; and a temperate, winding route to a satisfactory conclusion.
Brunetti still thinks constantly about eating good food, especially that prepared by Paola, his wife. The author has allowed him to age a bit, but if he really ate as much as he appears to do in every book, he would by now be grossly overweight. Instead, he may have gained a few pounds. To wit:
He pulled out the trousers of a suit he hadn’t worn since the winter, dark grey cashmere and wool and bought for almost nothing when the men’s clothing store in Campo San Luca had closed two years before. Strange, he thought, as he pushed the button through the buttonhole: they had seemed to fit him better when he bought the suit. Perhaps the dry cleaning had tightened them somehow;
One interesting thing about this series is that although the Venitian area has changed with the times—it is no longer the beautiful paradise it was at the beginning of the series—and the crimes now being dealt with by Brunetti and his colleagues have also evolved in sync with Italy’s changing political situation, but Brunetti’s children have not aged. The only thing that annoyed me while reading this story was the fact that Brunetti’s two children, Chiapa and Raffi, are still teenage children. Obviously, the author has deliberately made the choice to freeze them in time, but she has allowed the city landscape and its criminal element to evolve in concert with current issues. The disparity between the evolving environment and the fixed family depiction jarred me, and, to a certain extent, made the story less credible.
Otherwise, I thought it was an excellent addition to the series. Two badly injured American girls are found on the dock near the hospital. It isn’t long before Brunetti and his colleagues identify the Venetian men who left them there, but the rationale for this criminal act is more difficult to uncover. Brunetti’s colleague, Commissario Claudia Griffons plays an important role in helping Brunetti untangle the various threads. The fact that Griffons is a native of Naples also helps readers understand the cultural diversity of Italy’s regional districts; although friends, there are times when each commissario feels shut out of the other’s innermost thoughts.
Now I need to read #31, #32, and #33.
Thanks to the Greater Victoria Public Library for providing the copy that I read.
This was a period, also, when I mentally wasn’t ready for another challenging read. With the Brunetti series, you know what you will get—a picturesque tour of Venice; quiet philosophy; a crime, yes, but no brutal violence; and a temperate, winding route to a satisfactory conclusion.
Brunetti still thinks constantly about eating good food, especially that prepared by Paola, his wife. The author has allowed him to age a bit, but if he really ate as much as he appears to do in every book, he would by now be grossly overweight. Instead, he may have gained a few pounds. To wit:
He pulled out the trousers of a suit he hadn’t worn since the winter, dark grey cashmere and wool and bought for almost nothing when the men’s clothing store in Campo San Luca had closed two years before. Strange, he thought, as he pushed the button through the buttonhole: they had seemed to fit him better when he bought the suit. Perhaps the dry cleaning had tightened them somehow;
One interesting thing about this series is that although the Venitian area has changed with the times—it is no longer the beautiful paradise it was at the beginning of the series—and the crimes now being dealt with by Brunetti and his colleagues have also evolved in sync with Italy’s changing political situation, but Brunetti’s children have not aged. The only thing that annoyed me while reading this story was the fact that Brunetti’s two children, Chiapa and Raffi, are still teenage children. Obviously, the author has deliberately made the choice to freeze them in time, but she has allowed the city landscape and its criminal element to evolve in concert with current issues. The disparity between the evolving environment and the fixed family depiction jarred me, and, to a certain extent, made the story less credible.
Otherwise, I thought it was an excellent addition to the series. Two badly injured American girls are found on the dock near the hospital. It isn’t long before Brunetti and his colleagues identify the Venetian men who left them there, but the rationale for this criminal act is more difficult to uncover. Brunetti’s colleague, Commissario Claudia Griffons plays an important role in helping Brunetti untangle the various threads. The fact that Griffons is a native of Naples also helps readers understand the cultural diversity of Italy’s regional districts; although friends, there are times when each commissario feels shut out of the other’s innermost thoughts.
Now I need to read #31, #32, and #33.
Thanks to the Greater Victoria Public Library for providing the copy that I read.
March 5, 2021
Transient Desires is the thirtieth instalment in the Commissario Guido Brunetti series, set in Venice, Italy. An ageing Commissario Brunetti blames the tightening waistband on his trousers on the dry cleaners, and it seemingly never even crosses his mind that it could be as simple as him having gained weight due to unhealthy eating habits. He carries out his daily duties of meeting with informants, dining with colleagues and entertaining and trying to be a family man for his spirited wife and dogmatic children. He also ruminates on the belief that eventually the tourist industry in Venice, despite helping the city to flourish now, will likely implode in the not too distant future destroying the city he holds so dear. It isn't long before he's faced with a heinous crime committed outside his jurisdiction: two young American women have been badly injured in a boating accident, joyriding in the Laguna with two young Italians who had seduced them after a Saturday evening spent drinking at Campo Santa Margherita. In the dark, the boat rams a stake and the American women end up abandoned in an unconscious and battered state on the pier of the Ospedalem in close proximity to the dock of the hospital. Why didn't her companions alert the emergency room when it was all just an accident? As Brunetti and his colleague, Claudia Griffoni, investigate the incident, they soon identify the two men who left the women there as a well-to-do young lawyer and his childhood friend, a boatman.
One of the young men works for a man rumoured to be involved in more sinister night-time activities in the Laguna. To get to the bottom of what proves to be a gut-wrenching case, Brunetti needs to enlist the help of both the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Costiera. The presence of these unfamiliar colleagues adds to the difficulty of solving a peculiarly horrible crime whose perpetrators are technologically brilliant and ruthlessly organised. The more persistently Brunetti investigates, the closer he gets to a monster that even the mafia fears. This is yet another riveting and compulsive police procedural with the slow-burning first three-quarters of the story made up of philosophical musings on Italian culture, life’s ephemeral nature and Guido’s day-to-day, run-of-the-mill police work. Because our protagonist, whom I am emotionally invested in, is such a complex and fascinating guy, details of his personal and professional life are equally as intriguing and had me thoroughly engrossed. The last quarter picks up the pace and much like the rest is richly atmospheric and rather melancholy. An authentic depiction of Venetian life, the dynamic action builds until the tension is palpable before a scintillating and exciting conclusion, involving both the coast guard and navy commandos, plays out. Those who have loved this series so far will find more of the same shenanigans here and new readers will be treated to a character-driven novel with plenty of substance and an intelligent and original plot. Highly recommended.
One of the young men works for a man rumoured to be involved in more sinister night-time activities in the Laguna. To get to the bottom of what proves to be a gut-wrenching case, Brunetti needs to enlist the help of both the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Costiera. The presence of these unfamiliar colleagues adds to the difficulty of solving a peculiarly horrible crime whose perpetrators are technologically brilliant and ruthlessly organised. The more persistently Brunetti investigates, the closer he gets to a monster that even the mafia fears. This is yet another riveting and compulsive police procedural with the slow-burning first three-quarters of the story made up of philosophical musings on Italian culture, life’s ephemeral nature and Guido’s day-to-day, run-of-the-mill police work. Because our protagonist, whom I am emotionally invested in, is such a complex and fascinating guy, details of his personal and professional life are equally as intriguing and had me thoroughly engrossed. The last quarter picks up the pace and much like the rest is richly atmospheric and rather melancholy. An authentic depiction of Venetian life, the dynamic action builds until the tension is palpable before a scintillating and exciting conclusion, involving both the coast guard and navy commandos, plays out. Those who have loved this series so far will find more of the same shenanigans here and new readers will be treated to a character-driven novel with plenty of substance and an intelligent and original plot. Highly recommended.
Read
January 25, 2022Whoa! I was surprised at one point in this book . Have never been surprised before reading a Donna Leon book throughout the series. Change is in the air. This is her 30th book.
The great cast of characters is still here. Vice-Questore Giuseppe Patta and Signorina Elettra have less time in this story. I do miss them. Patta’s role has gotten pretty old as of late but the upper echelon in Venice society still exists and so he is needed. Commisarrio Claudia Griffoni is pretty savvy finding info online now but Signrina Electra still hasn’t taught him all her secret ways to get into other agencies data. Claudia and Commisario Brunetti have teamed up again in this novel. We spend a lot of time with them both in Transient. They are a great duo together. This is the biggest character change in the series. Claudia is originally from Naples and Brunetti has some biases about people from there (along with Sicily). She calls him on it. Which makes this contemporary. In fact this is the most contemporary book of hers. It talks about human trafficking as a new form of slavery. Gay love is handled with tenderness. Brunetti is still teaching his daughter about ethics and rhetoric over delicious meals. I always enjoy that part. Paula, Brunetti’s wife is still reading Henry James and Brunetti ancient classics. Brunette’s fathering skills come into play in the novel. In fact they are critical to the success of solving this crime. Two young women are in the hospital after a voyage at night on a boat with 2 young men.
Brunetti and Claudia join with local Admiralty in solving this crime. Claudia’s Naples roots play an important role. Since this is Venice with all the canals and lagoons a good bit of time is spent on or by the water. I and Brunetti learned a thing or two about the latest naval technology. And human tracking- human slavery is still heinous.
A job well done by cast and writer.
The great cast of characters is still here. Vice-Questore Giuseppe Patta and Signorina Elettra have less time in this story. I do miss them. Patta’s role has gotten pretty old as of late but the upper echelon in Venice society still exists and so he is needed. Commisarrio Claudia Griffoni is pretty savvy finding info online now but Signrina Electra still hasn’t taught him all her secret ways to get into other agencies data. Claudia and Commisario Brunetti have teamed up again in this novel. We spend a lot of time with them both in Transient. They are a great duo together. This is the biggest character change in the series. Claudia is originally from Naples and Brunetti has some biases about people from there (along with Sicily). She calls him on it. Which makes this contemporary. In fact this is the most contemporary book of hers. It talks about human trafficking as a new form of slavery. Gay love is handled with tenderness. Brunetti is still teaching his daughter about ethics and rhetoric over delicious meals. I always enjoy that part. Paula, Brunetti’s wife is still reading Henry James and Brunetti ancient classics. Brunette’s fathering skills come into play in the novel. In fact they are critical to the success of solving this crime. Two young women are in the hospital after a voyage at night on a boat with 2 young men.
Brunetti and Claudia join with local Admiralty in solving this crime. Claudia’s Naples roots play an important role. Since this is Venice with all the canals and lagoons a good bit of time is spent on or by the water. I and Brunetti learned a thing or two about the latest naval technology. And human tracking- human slavery is still heinous.
A job well done by cast and writer.
January 11, 2021
I am a huge fan of Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series. I look forward each year to a new one; this is her thirtieth.
The cases, while always intriguing, are almost secondary to the wonderful characterizations and musings and observations of life, especially Venetian life, by Brunetti. So nice to visit again with all the familiar actors, flamboyant Signora Elletra, strong and wise Paola, philosophical Guido, comical Patta, capable Griffoni, loyal Foa.
This case unfolds after two young American women injured in a boating accident are anonymously deposited on the dock outside the hospital. Is that all there is to it? Ah, no, for this is Venice, and there is always more to the story.
I think this was one of my favorite of the series. It was a fast read, but I tried to take time to savor my time in Venice. Leon is an excellent writer, sharing wit and wisdom. For anyone new to Brunetti, this certainly can be read as a stand alone, but why deprive yourself? Go back to the beginning of the series and enjoy getting to know all of these memorable characters.
During these days of restricted travel, I enjoyed revisiting the landmarks of La Serenissima, stopping here and there for a coffee, brioche, glass of wine, or, my favorite, an Aperol spritz.
The cases, while always intriguing, are almost secondary to the wonderful characterizations and musings and observations of life, especially Venetian life, by Brunetti. So nice to visit again with all the familiar actors, flamboyant Signora Elletra, strong and wise Paola, philosophical Guido, comical Patta, capable Griffoni, loyal Foa.
This case unfolds after two young American women injured in a boating accident are anonymously deposited on the dock outside the hospital. Is that all there is to it? Ah, no, for this is Venice, and there is always more to the story.
I think this was one of my favorite of the series. It was a fast read, but I tried to take time to savor my time in Venice. Leon is an excellent writer, sharing wit and wisdom. For anyone new to Brunetti, this certainly can be read as a stand alone, but why deprive yourself? Go back to the beginning of the series and enjoy getting to know all of these memorable characters.
During these days of restricted travel, I enjoyed revisiting the landmarks of La Serenissima, stopping here and there for a coffee, brioche, glass of wine, or, my favorite, an Aperol spritz.
May 31, 2021
A story told by dialogue between characters, and little else. The ending was confusing and left a lot of 'what happens now?' The old Donna Leon, who told the story, the history, and the characters of Venice in considered narratives, was AWOL in this book. Too many scenes relied on the trope of the modern writer with not much to write about, namely the wonders of dinner recipes with foreign names no one can pronounce and topical issues current to the day.
I guess I expect more and got way less, including a story not particularly gripping. The worst part is, I nearly stopped reading after the first 100 pages with no intention of finishing.
I guess I expect more and got way less, including a story not particularly gripping. The worst part is, I nearly stopped reading after the first 100 pages with no intention of finishing.
December 30, 2020
I really like the setting and the characters, and the storytelling is great, but unfortunately the plot is very weak. Even the ending, that could have supplied a little action and suspense, is rather strange.
December 20, 2020
Another wonderful book by Donna Leon in the Guido Brunetti series - book 30! For people who have read these books, one would know not to expect plenty of action and drama. But, it excels in being a gentle slice of Venetian life through the eyes of our steady protagonist. This time, Brunetti was drawn by fellow Commissario Claudia Griffoni into investigating what happened to 2 young American women left severely injured outside a hospital.
Although the investigation into this went deeper and ranged further than first expected, I find it's not really the focal point of the book. As always, the relationship between Brunetti and his wife and children + the professional relationships he has with his colleagues in the Questura, are what the book is mostly about. Through him, we see clearly the complex interplay of personal and professional relationships in Italian life.
Although the investigation into this went deeper and ranged further than first expected, I find it's not really the focal point of the book. As always, the relationship between Brunetti and his wife and children + the professional relationships he has with his colleagues in the Questura, are what the book is mostly about. Through him, we see clearly the complex interplay of personal and professional relationships in Italian life.
March 30, 2021
Well, I just finished reading this 30th book in the series and I'm torn between a 4 star and a 1 star rating. The last few Guido novels have been very dark and not a lot of fun to read as both he and his creator [Leon] seem to have become very disillusioned and disenchanted with the graff and vice in Venice. This book, however, included several scenes with his family -- always the best part of his day and my read -- and a new take on his partner Claudia and I thought it was even going to have a more upbeat ending, where Guido actually stops some of the evil he has to deal with daily. I was all prepared to grant this a 4 star rating.
But then I got to the last two paragraphs in the book and the narration just . . . stops. No conclusion, no wrap-up, no way to know what happened to the participants, and only the vaguest of allusions to the state of Brunetti's mind. I can't help but wonder if this isn't the end of this series, or about to be. There was talk earlier between Guido and Paola about what he might do instead of policing, so perhaps the Commissario will finally be released from the madness and futility of his job. If so, I will miss reading about him and his cohorts, but I think it is time for Donna Leon to retire him.
But then I got to the last two paragraphs in the book and the narration just . . . stops. No conclusion, no wrap-up, no way to know what happened to the participants, and only the vaguest of allusions to the state of Brunetti's mind. I can't help but wonder if this isn't the end of this series, or about to be. There was talk earlier between Guido and Paola about what he might do instead of policing, so perhaps the Commissario will finally be released from the madness and futility of his job. If so, I will miss reading about him and his cohorts, but I think it is time for Donna Leon to retire him.
August 11, 2021
I have only once read Donna Leon before and it was a child, so I can't much speak on how this compares to her other works, but this read like someone who knows what they're doing but there's not a lot of passion or life in it. The case unfolded slowly but felt rather tepid and tame - it honestly reminded me of reading the Three Investigators, that kind of crime writing. As this is the 30th case, I didn't expect the author to explain Brunetti or the other characters to me, but I was still a little underwhelmed by the characterisations. None of the persons came alive for me. I did think Venice came alive to me - although sometimes the appeal to authencity (especially when it came to the food) were a little much and did rather the opposite of making it seem natural.
Overall, the case was entertaining enough and it was en easy read. But the ending is very strange. Considering that the book is rather slow, suddenly the solution is presented within a few pages, and like other reviewers have said I, too, had to check if I missed some pages and then rereead the ending, because it didn't seem finished. It didn't read rushed - it read like a chapter is missing. Very odd reading experience.
Overall, the case was entertaining enough and it was en easy read. But the ending is very strange. Considering that the book is rather slow, suddenly the solution is presented within a few pages, and like other reviewers have said I, too, had to check if I missed some pages and then rereead the ending, because it didn't seem finished. It didn't read rushed - it read like a chapter is missing. Very odd reading experience.
January 18, 2021
Brunetti's newest case involves two American girls who are left on a dock outside a Venetian hospital, badly injured. The two young men who left them there are identified, but apparently one of the men works for his uncle who seems to be involved in human trafficking. Brunetti and Griffoni enlist the help of the Coast Guard in an exciting night assault on the operation. The ending doesn't wrap things up neatly but is satisfying, nonetheless. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the opportunity to review this ARC.
July 20, 2021
I really enjoy this series and have read all the previous books featuring Commissario Guido Brunetti. I enjoyed this book overall and liked the fact that the real mystery doesn't surface until partway through the book. I imagine that this more closely mirrors real life policing and investigating when things don't always surface immediately. I was frustrated by the abrupt ending to this book however. I re-read the ending multiple times and am still left unsatisfied.
April 12, 2021
First Sentence: Brunetti slept late.
Two young American women were found injured and abandoned on the emergency dock of the hospital. A surveillance camera finally identified the boat and the men who left them there. But why dump the women if the injuries were caused by a boating accident? An investigation by Brunetti and his colleague, Claudia Griffoni, lead to far darker activities involving one of the men's uncle. Although Brunetti is uncertain how much he can trust them, he needs the assistance of the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Costiera against an enemy much greater than he imagined.
One of the best things about Brunetti is how real and normal he is. No superhero he. He procrastinates and indulges in self-pity as he feels the passage of years. His empathy for others and the inclusion of his home life makes him a fully developed character. Yet, one wonders whether Brunetti is suffering from ennui and thinking of retirement?
As usual, the magnificent Signorina Elettra saves the day by pointing him to a new case, but it's Leon's wry assessment of charity events, especially those for environmental issues where the attendees fly in on their private jets, that remind us how good Leon is at incorporating current issues into her stories including that while Brunetti is appreciative of the women with whom he is in contact, he is also very aware of what is appropriate. The addition of Claudia Griffoni as Brunetti's second, and a Neapolitan demonstrates that bigotry comes in many forms. Still, she makes the point; it is often those who are invisible to others who see the most. There is so much packed into this story. Brunetti is always willing to grow and learn which adds to his strength as a character.
Leon expands the story in a logical manner, often with well-placed, but not overused, plot twists. She also increases one's knowledge of Italy's different law enforcement branches by including the Carabinieri, or the military branch, and the Guardia Costiera, which is equivalent to our Coast Guard. Including these branches expands the story and increases its suspense. There is nothing more effective or suspenseful than a setup where one thinks one knows how things will go, yet desperately hopes to be wrong.
"Transient Desires" is timely, relevant, and suspenseful. This ranks high among Leon's books; perhaps as her very best, with implications and an ending that is emotionally impactful.
TRANSIENT DESIRES (PolPro-Comm. Guido Brunetti-Venice-Contemp) Ex
Leon, Donna – 30th in series
Atlantic Monthly Press, Mar 2021, 288 pp
Two young American women were found injured and abandoned on the emergency dock of the hospital. A surveillance camera finally identified the boat and the men who left them there. But why dump the women if the injuries were caused by a boating accident? An investigation by Brunetti and his colleague, Claudia Griffoni, lead to far darker activities involving one of the men's uncle. Although Brunetti is uncertain how much he can trust them, he needs the assistance of the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Costiera against an enemy much greater than he imagined.
One of the best things about Brunetti is how real and normal he is. No superhero he. He procrastinates and indulges in self-pity as he feels the passage of years. His empathy for others and the inclusion of his home life makes him a fully developed character. Yet, one wonders whether Brunetti is suffering from ennui and thinking of retirement?
As usual, the magnificent Signorina Elettra saves the day by pointing him to a new case, but it's Leon's wry assessment of charity events, especially those for environmental issues where the attendees fly in on their private jets, that remind us how good Leon is at incorporating current issues into her stories including that while Brunetti is appreciative of the women with whom he is in contact, he is also very aware of what is appropriate. The addition of Claudia Griffoni as Brunetti's second, and a Neapolitan demonstrates that bigotry comes in many forms. Still, she makes the point; it is often those who are invisible to others who see the most. There is so much packed into this story. Brunetti is always willing to grow and learn which adds to his strength as a character.
Leon expands the story in a logical manner, often with well-placed, but not overused, plot twists. She also increases one's knowledge of Italy's different law enforcement branches by including the Carabinieri, or the military branch, and the Guardia Costiera, which is equivalent to our Coast Guard. Including these branches expands the story and increases its suspense. There is nothing more effective or suspenseful than a setup where one thinks one knows how things will go, yet desperately hopes to be wrong.
"Transient Desires" is timely, relevant, and suspenseful. This ranks high among Leon's books; perhaps as her very best, with implications and an ending that is emotionally impactful.
TRANSIENT DESIRES (PolPro-Comm. Guido Brunetti-Venice-Contemp) Ex
Leon, Donna – 30th in series
Atlantic Monthly Press, Mar 2021, 288 pp
June 22, 2021
Shady Boating in Venice
Review of the Atlantic Monthly Press hardcover (March, 2021)
Transient Desires is great on the atmosphere of Venice, Italy with its police reliant on various boats in order to go about their duties. The images alone of taking a Venice public transportation vaporetto (little steamer) to the next interview is unique for any police procedural that I have ever read. It is almost a cozy with the comfortable settings of Brunetti's family and their home meals, but there is still a dark edge to this investigation which is only gradually revealed. The case starts off with what seems like a boating accident, where two American tourists are dropped off at a hospital boat dock by two locals who do not stick around to explain themselves further. The reason that the boatmen were reluctant to come forward is gradually pieced together by Brunetti and his colleagues Claudia Griffoni & Elletra Zorzi.
View of the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy with the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute centred in the background. Image sourced from Fine Art America.
Transient Desires does come with a very abrupt ending. See some reviewers that said they tried to search for missing pages or chapters. The case is still solved to all intents and purposes though, and thus avoids one of my Unsatisfactory Ending Alerts™. I will enjoy a return visit to Brunetti and Venice when I next get a chance.
Although Transient Desires is the 30th book of the series, it is my 1st ever Commissario Brunetti. Thanks to Karan for the introduction to this series.
Review of the Atlantic Monthly Press hardcover (March, 2021)
Transient Desires is great on the atmosphere of Venice, Italy with its police reliant on various boats in order to go about their duties. The images alone of taking a Venice public transportation vaporetto (little steamer) to the next interview is unique for any police procedural that I have ever read. It is almost a cozy with the comfortable settings of Brunetti's family and their home meals, but there is still a dark edge to this investigation which is only gradually revealed. The case starts off with what seems like a boating accident, where two American tourists are dropped off at a hospital boat dock by two locals who do not stick around to explain themselves further. The reason that the boatmen were reluctant to come forward is gradually pieced together by Brunetti and his colleagues Claudia Griffoni & Elletra Zorzi.
View of the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy with the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute centred in the background. Image sourced from Fine Art America.
Transient Desires does come with a very abrupt ending. See some reviewers that said they tried to search for missing pages or chapters. The case is still solved to all intents and purposes though, and thus avoids one of my Unsatisfactory Ending Alerts™. I will enjoy a return visit to Brunetti and Venice when I next get a chance.
Although Transient Desires is the 30th book of the series, it is my 1st ever Commissario Brunetti. Thanks to Karan for the introduction to this series.
January 11, 2021
It's been years since I last read a Brunetti. It's one of those series which I enjoy so I leave some back, unread to go to when I'm in dire need of comfort and feeling at home.
I'm not Italian nor Venetian but with Brunetti I feel at home, we share the love of puzzles, curiosity, food, books.
Leon social voice is loud and clear in this one, also her social commentary on politics, community and the world around us. Her Brunetti does not live in a bubble.
I enjoyed reading this and did not want it to end. My only misgiving is that it ended so abruptly because I so needed to know more.
An ARC gently given by author/publisher through Netgalley.
I'm not Italian nor Venetian but with Brunetti I feel at home, we share the love of puzzles, curiosity, food, books.
Leon social voice is loud and clear in this one, also her social commentary on politics, community and the world around us. Her Brunetti does not live in a bubble.
I enjoyed reading this and did not want it to end. My only misgiving is that it ended so abruptly because I so needed to know more.
Peter Beeson
Morning the Giudecca, Venice
An ARC gently given by author/publisher through Netgalley.
December 27, 2020
Having read the Brunetti books for many, many years I always look forward to the next installment and once again I'm not disappointed In this Brunetti's 30th outing we continue to see a Brunetti who has become more jaded and changed owing to the criminality he faces on a daily basis. Yes Brunetti lives a life which many would dream of and yet the dark side of humanity creeps into his world.
Leon is great at introducing a crime which appears unimportant and yet will lead to a far more dangerous situation to be dealt with. As always we get a big slice of social change as well as worldwide issues. Her writing sweeps you along and leaves you wanting more.
Leon is great at introducing a crime which appears unimportant and yet will lead to a far more dangerous situation to be dealt with. As always we get a big slice of social change as well as worldwide issues. Her writing sweeps you along and leaves you wanting more.
December 28, 2020
Having read the Brunetti books for many, many years I always look forward to the next installment and once again I'm not disappointed In this Brunetti's 30th outing we continue to see a Brunetti who has become more jaded and changed owing to the criminality he faces on a daily basis. Yes Brunetti lives a life which many would dream of and yet the dark side of humanity creeps into his world.
Leon is great at introducing a crime which appears unimportant and yet will lead to a far more dangerous situation to be dealt with. As always we get a big slice of social change as well as worldwide issues. Her writing sweeps you along and leaves you wanting more.
Leon is great at introducing a crime which appears unimportant and yet will lead to a far more dangerous situation to be dealt with. As always we get a big slice of social change as well as worldwide issues. Her writing sweeps you along and leaves you wanting more.
September 13, 2023
2.5 stars. I have always been a big fan of Ms Leon, and would have liked to give this novel a 4 star review, but I just cannot condone the absurdly abrupt ending of "Transient Desires".
I was happily listening to the audiobook when, suddenly, to my surprise, it came to an end. I "rewound" to listen again to the last chapter, but was again frustrated to find that the story ended without any explanation.
I want to know what happened to the two boys at the end. How can Ms Leon leave us wondering like that? Did they lose the last chapter? I feel cheated. How discourteous.
I was happily listening to the audiobook when, suddenly, to my surprise, it came to an end. I "rewound" to listen again to the last chapter, but was again frustrated to find that the story ended without any explanation.
I want to know what happened to the two boys at the end. How can Ms Leon leave us wondering like that? Did they lose the last chapter? I feel cheated. How discourteous.
April 7, 2021
Commissario Guido Brunetti is called upon to investigate the abandonment of two young American women, heavily injured, at the door of a Venice Hospital. Two young men just leave them there and escape!
On deeper inspection, however, Guido finds a far more sinister crime happening in the background... Please read my detailed review from the link here https://rb.gy/sbhtnm
Do read, like or comment 🙏
#donnaleon #transientdesires #guidobenetti #venice #policethriller #crime #thrillernovel #thrilling #mysterious #bookfan #bookreviewer #bookworm
On deeper inspection, however, Guido finds a far more sinister crime happening in the background... Please read my detailed review from the link here https://rb.gy/sbhtnm
Do read, like or comment 🙏
#donnaleon #transientdesires #guidobenetti #venice #policethriller #crime #thrillernovel #thrilling #mysterious #bookfan #bookreviewer #bookworm
Displaying 1 - 30 of 928 reviews