Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Acqua Alta

   A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

   

   In this gripping installment of a celebrated mystery series set in Venice, the protagonist, a thoughtful and diligent detective, finds himself embroiled in a complex case that intertwines a brutal attack on a famous opera singer with a sinister burglary at a local museum. As the detective delves deeper into the investigation, navigating the atmospheric and flood-prone streets of Venice, he uncovers a web of deceit, corruption, and long-buried secrets. With the city's unique and treacherous acqua alta (high water) providing both a backdrop and a clue, the detective must use all his skills and local knowledge to solve the case before the rising waters erase all traces of the perpetrator's crimes.

   The 5308th Greatest Book of All Time

2. 2. Friends In High Places

   A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

   

   "Friends in High Places" is a mystery novel that follows the protagonist, a Venetian detective, as he investigates a case involving the suspicious death of a government official. The detective's inquiry leads him into a tangled web of corruption, real estate fraud, and high society connections in Venice. As he delves deeper, he must navigate the perilous waters of political influence and ethical dilemmas, relying on a few trustworthy allies in a city where appearances often hide darker truths. The novel combines a compelling detective story with a rich portrayal of Venetian life and politics.

   The 12609th Greatest Book of All Time

3. 3. The Jewels Of Paradise

   

   In this intriguing mystery novel, a musicologist named Caterina Pellegrini returns to her native Venice to unravel the secrets surrounding two recently discovered trunks believed to contain the belongings of a long-dead Baroque composer. As she delves into the historical documents, Caterina uncovers a web of intrigue, rivalry, and hidden treasures that challenge her intellect and test her resolve. The narrative weaves together themes of history, music, and personal discovery, as Caterina navigates the complexities of her research while confronting her own life's uncertainties.

4. 4. A Refiner’s Fire

   

   The novel unfolds in the vibrant city of Venice, where Commissario Guido Brunetti is tasked with unraveling a complex mystery involving the suspicious death of a prominent art dealer. As Brunetti delves deeper into the investigation, he encounters a web of deceit, corruption, and betrayal that stretches across the city's elite art circles. The story intricately weaves themes of morality, justice, and the human condition, all set against the backdrop of Venice's rich cultural heritage. Brunetti's keen intellect and moral compass guide him through the labyrinthine plot, ultimately revealing the truth behind the façade of respectability.
5. 5. So Shall You Reap

   The Story of an Italian Garden

   

   In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti delves into the complex world of academia and environmental activism after a murder disrupts the serene canals of Venice. As Brunetti investigates, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption linked to a controversial research project on genetically modified crops. The story intricately weaves themes of ethical dilemmas, personal responsibility, and the impact of scientific advancements on society, all set against the backdrop of Venice's unique charm and challenges. Brunetti's keen intuition and moral compass guide him through a labyrinth of motives and secrets, ultimately revealing the truth behind the crime.

6. 6. Give Unto Others

   A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

   

   In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti is drawn into a complex investigation when an old acquaintance, Elisabetta Foscarini, seeks his help regarding a series of troubling incidents affecting her family. As Brunetti delves deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption that extends beyond personal grievances into the broader societal issues plaguing Venice. The story intricately weaves themes of loyalty, morality, and the impact of past actions, all set against the richly atmospheric backdrop of the city, as Brunetti navigates the challenges of seeking justice in a world where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred.

7. 7. Transient Desires

   A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

   

   In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti is drawn into a complex investigation when two young American women are found injured after a night out in Venice. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and exploitation involving human trafficking and the darker side of the city's tourism industry. The story explores themes of justice, morality, and the impact of transient desires on both individuals and society, all set against the atmospheric backdrop of Venice. Brunetti's introspective nature and his commitment to uncovering the truth drive the narrative, leading to a thought-provoking conclusion.

8. 8. Trace Elements

   A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

   

   In this gripping mystery novel, a dying woman's cryptic words lead Commissario Guido Brunetti into an investigation that uncovers corruption and environmental crimes in Venice. As Brunetti delves deeper, he navigates the murky waters of bureaucracy and deceit, unraveling a complex web of greed and negligence that threatens the city's fragile ecosystem. The story intricately weaves themes of morality and justice, highlighting the challenges of uncovering truth in a world where powerful interests often prevail. Through Brunetti's keen observations and thoughtful reflections, the novel explores the impact of human actions on both the environment and society.

9. 9. Unto Us A Son Is Given

   

   In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti is drawn into a complex web of family secrets and moral dilemmas when his father-in-law's friend, Gonzalo, decides to adopt an adult son to secure his legacy. As Brunetti delves deeper into the implications of this decision, he uncovers a series of unexpected events that lead to murder. Set against the backdrop of Venice, the story explores themes of loyalty, the intricacies of familial bonds, and the ethical challenges faced by individuals when personal desires clash with societal norms. Brunetti's investigation reveals the darker side of human nature and the lengths people will go to protect their interests.
10. 10. By Its Cover

    

    In this mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the theft and vandalism of rare books from a Venetian library. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption involving the library staff and patrons. The investigation takes unexpected turns, revealing the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets and the value they place on knowledge and history. Set against the backdrop of Venice's rich cultural heritage, the story explores themes of intellectual greed and the preservation of art and literature.

11. 11. Falling In Love

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, the renowned Venetian detective Guido Brunetti finds himself entangled in a complex case when a famous opera singer, Flavia Petrelli, becomes the target of an obsessive stalker. As Brunetti delves deeper into the investigation, he navigates the intricate world of opera and the dark undercurrents of obsession and jealousy that threaten Flavia's safety. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Venice's enchanting yet shadowy canals, as Brunetti races against time to uncover the identity of the stalker and protect Flavia from impending danger.

12. 12. The Waters Of Eternal Youth

    

    In this gripping mystery set in Venice, Commissario Guido Brunetti is drawn into a cold case involving a young woman who suffered brain damage after a near-drowning incident fifteen years earlier. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Brunetti uncovers a web of secrets and lies that challenge his perceptions of justice and morality. With the help of his colleagues and his own keen intuition, he navigates the complexities of Venetian society to uncover the truth behind the tragic event, all while reflecting on the passage of time and the nature of youth and innocence.

13. 13. Earthly Remains

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, a Venetian police detective seeks respite from his demanding career by retreating to a tranquil island in the Venetian lagoon. However, his peaceful escape is disrupted when a local beekeeper mysteriously disappears, prompting the detective to delve into the murky waters of the island's secrets. As he investigates, he uncovers a web of environmental issues, corruption, and personal vendettas, all while reflecting on his own life and the moral complexities of justice. The story intricately weaves themes of nature, human impact, and the quest for truth against the backdrop of Venice's unique landscape.

14. 14. The Temptation Of Forgiveness

    A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

    

    In this gripping mystery, Commissario Guido Brunetti navigates the complex social and moral landscape of Venice as he investigates a seemingly straightforward case involving a schoolteacher's concerns about her son's drug use. The investigation takes a darker turn when a man is found unconscious with a severe head injury, leading Brunetti to uncover a web of corruption and deceit that challenges his sense of justice and morality. As he delves deeper, Brunetti must confront the intricate dynamics of family loyalty, the temptation of forgiveness, and the pervasive influence of power and money in the city he loves.
15. 15. A Question Of Belief

    

    In this gripping mystery novel set in Venice, Commissario Guido Brunetti navigates the complexities of Italian bureaucracy and corruption as he investigates a series of crimes linked to a fraudulent court case and a suspicious murder. As Brunetti delves deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit involving a respected judge and a fortune-teller, challenging his own beliefs about justice and morality. The story intricately weaves together themes of power, ethics, and the often murky line between right and wrong, all against the backdrop of Venice's atmospheric canals and historic charm.

16. 16. Drawing Conclusions

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the death of an elderly woman in Venice, initially deemed a natural passing. As Brunetti delves deeper, he uncovers a web of secrets and hidden motives, revealing the complexities of human nature and societal issues. The investigation leads him through the intricate layers of Venetian life, where he must navigate personal and professional challenges to uncover the truth. The story is rich with atmospheric details and explores themes of justice, morality, and the impact of aging, all while maintaining a suspenseful and engaging narrative.

17. 17. Beastly Things

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, a disfigured body is discovered in a canal in Venice, prompting Commissario Guido Brunetti to delve into the victim's life and uncover the dark underbelly of the city's meat industry. As Brunetti navigates through layers of corruption and deceit, he encounters a world where profit often trumps ethics, leading him to question the moral fabric of society. The investigation reveals not only the complexities of human nature but also the intricate connections between personal and professional lives, ultimately challenging Brunetti's own beliefs and values.

18. 18. The Golden Egg

    A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti is drawn into an investigation that begins with the seemingly insignificant death of a deaf and mute man in Venice. As Brunetti delves deeper, he uncovers a web of secrets and deception that challenges his perceptions of morality and justice. The story explores themes of social inequality and the hidden lives of those marginalized by society, all set against the richly described backdrop of Venice. Through Brunetti's compassionate and persistent pursuit of truth, the novel reveals the complexities of human nature and the often harsh realities of life.

19. 19. The Girl Of His Dreams

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti navigates the intricate canals of Venice as he investigates the suspicious death of a young Romani girl whose body is found in the city's waters. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of prejudice, poverty, and corruption that challenges his moral compass and tests his dedication to justice. The story explores themes of societal inequality and the complexities of human nature, all set against the richly atmospheric backdrop of Venice.
20. 20. Suffer The Little Children

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti navigates the complexities of a case involving a pediatrician accused of illegally adopting a child. As Brunetti delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of corruption and moral ambiguity within the Italian healthcare system and the lives of those involved. The story explores themes of family, ethics, and justice, as Brunetti grapples with the personal and professional challenges that arise from the case, ultimately questioning the true meaning of right and wrong in a world filled with shades of gray.

21. 21. About Face

    A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

    

    The book is a mystery novel set in Venice, where Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates a complex case involving environmental crimes and corruption. As Brunetti delves deeper, he encounters a world of illegal waste disposal and the dangerous intersections of business and politics. The investigation becomes personal when Brunetti's father-in-law introduces him to a mysterious woman with a disfigured face, whose connections to the case reveal unexpected layers of deceit and moral ambiguity. Throughout the story, themes of justice, family, and the impact of human actions on the environment are explored, all set against the backdrop of Venice's rich cultural and historical landscape.

22. 22. Through A Glass, Darkly

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Venetian Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the suspicious death of a night watchman at a glass factory on the island of Murano. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of environmental concerns, family secrets, and corporate corruption. The investigation challenges Brunetti's moral compass as he navigates the complexities of justice and the impact of industrial pollution on the community. The story intricately weaves together themes of environmentalism, family loyalty, and the pursuit of truth, all set against the richly atmospheric backdrop of Venice.

23. 23. Blood From A Stone

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the murder of an African street vendor in Venice, uncovering a web of corruption and exploitation. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he encounters resistance from powerful figures and faces moral dilemmas, highlighting issues of immigration, racism, and the dark underbelly of the city. The story intricately weaves together themes of justice and humanity, as Brunetti navigates the complexities of Venetian society to uncover the truth behind the seemingly senseless killing.

24. 24. Wilful Behaviour

    

    In this gripping mystery, Commissario Guido Brunetti is drawn into a complex investigation following the suspicious death of a young art student in Venice. As Brunetti delves deeper, he uncovers a web of secrets involving art theft, corruption, and the dark history of Italy during World War II. The investigation reveals the lengths to which people will go to protect their pasts and the moral dilemmas faced by those seeking justice. With its rich depiction of Venetian life and intricate plot, the story explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the enduring impact of history on the present.
25. 25. Uniform Justice

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the suspicious death of a cadet at a prestigious military academy in Venice. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, secrecy, and moral ambiguity within the institution and its influential connections. The investigation challenges Brunetti's sense of justice as he navigates the complexities of military honor and the personal lives of those involved, ultimately revealing the dark undercurrents beneath the surface of Venetian society.

26. 26. Doctored Evidence

    

    In this gripping mystery, Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the murder of an elderly woman in Venice, initially believed to be a straightforward case with a clear suspect. However, as Brunetti delves deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit, corruption, and hidden motives that challenge his perceptions and test his resolve. The investigation reveals the complexities of human nature and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets, ultimately leading Brunetti to question the very nature of justice in a world rife with moral ambiguity.

27. 27. A Sea Of Troubles

    

    In this gripping mystery, Commissario Guido Brunetti is drawn into the complex world of a small fishing community on the Venetian lagoon after two fishermen are brutally murdered. As Brunetti navigates the intricate web of local rivalries, family secrets, and environmental concerns, he must unravel the truth behind the killings while contending with the community's deep-seated mistrust of outsiders. The investigation leads him to confront the darker side of human nature and the impact of economic pressures on traditional ways of life, all set against the evocative backdrop of Venice's waterways.

28. 28. Quietly In Their Sleep

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, a former nun approaches Venetian Commissario Guido Brunetti with suspicions about a series of suspicious deaths at a nursing home, where she once worked. As Brunetti delves into the investigation, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit involving powerful figures in the city. The story intricately weaves themes of morality, justice, and the complexities of human nature, all set against the richly described backdrop of Venice. Brunetti's pursuit of truth and justice is both a personal and professional journey, highlighting his dedication to uncovering the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of his beloved city.

29. 29. A Noble Radiance

    

    In this gripping mystery set in Venice, a decomposed body is discovered in a field, leading Commissario Guido Brunetti into a complex investigation that uncovers a web of family secrets, corruption, and long-buried truths. As Brunetti delves deeper, he navigates the intricate dynamics of a wealthy and influential family, revealing the dark undercurrents beneath their respectable facade. With his keen intuition and moral compass, Brunetti seeks justice while confronting the challenges posed by power and privilege in a city where appearances often mask reality.
30. 30. Fatal Remedies

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti finds himself embroiled in a complex case that intertwines personal and professional dilemmas. The story unfolds as Brunetti's wife, Paola, takes a bold stand against a corrupt travel agency exploiting vulnerable women, leading to unexpected consequences that put Brunetti's career at risk. As he navigates the murky waters of Venice's legal and moral challenges, Brunetti must balance his duty to uphold the law with his loyalty to his family. The narrative explores themes of justice, morality, and the intricate dynamics of personal relationships against the backdrop of Venetian society.

31. 31. Death And Judgment

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates a complex web of crime and corruption in Venice, beginning with the discovery of a murdered lawyer and a tragic accident involving a truckload of illegal immigrants. As Brunetti delves deeper, he uncovers connections between the legal profession, human trafficking, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. The investigation challenges Brunetti's moral compass and exposes the dark underbelly of society, where justice is often elusive and the powerful manipulate the system for their gain. Through meticulous detective work and keen intuition, Brunetti seeks to bring the perpetrators to justice while navigating the intricate social and political landscape of Venice.

32. 32. Dressed For Death

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, a Venetian detective finds himself entangled in a complex investigation when a man's body, dressed in women's clothing, is discovered in an abandoned field. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, deceit, and hidden identities that stretches across the city's elite. The detective must navigate the intricate social and political landscape of Venice, confronting moral dilemmas and personal challenges, to unravel the truth behind the murder and bring justice to the victim.

33. 33. Death In A Strange Country

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, Venetian Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the murder of an American soldier whose body is found in a canal. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption involving the American military, local officials, and the illegal disposal of toxic waste. The investigation becomes increasingly complex and dangerous, challenging Brunetti's moral compass and dedication to justice. Set against the rich backdrop of Venice, the story explores themes of power, environmental crime, and the often murky line between right and wrong.

34. 34. Death At La Fenice

    

    In this gripping mystery set in Venice, a renowned conductor is found dead in his dressing room at the prestigious La Fenice opera house, prompting Commissario Guido Brunetti to unravel a web of secrets and lies. As Brunetti delves into the world of opera and the personal lives of those connected to the victim, he uncovers a complex tapestry of jealousy, betrayal, and hidden motives. The investigation reveals the darker side of human nature and the lengths to which people will go to protect their reputations and desires, all set against the backdrop of the enchanting yet enigmatic city of Venice.