The Lover of No Fixed Abode

In November, a Roman signora and a mysterious tour guide embark on a Venetian adventure filled with glitter, worldliness, and suspicion. They are exposed to unscrupulous art dealers and scammers while exploring the canals and lagoons of Venice, a city that becomes a character in the novel. The Italian detective story by Fruttero and Lucentini offers a perfect blend of comedy of manners and the macabre, and the novel is an undiscovered gem that is witty, moving, and enthrallingly atmospheric.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Bitter Lemon Press

The month of November brings a captivating blend of glamour and intrigue to the enchanting city of Venice. As the world converges on this Venetian adventure, a web of passion and suspicion intertwines, creating a tapestry of emotions that will leave a lasting impression.

The journey begins with a troubling encounter on a flight to Venice. She, an elegant Roman signora, embarks on a quest to uncover undervalued paintings, while he, a mysterious tour guide, accompanies her. Their paths cross amidst the cosmopolitan parties of Venetian social and art glitterati, where they are invited to immerse themselves in the city's vibrant culture.

Mr. Silvera, a guide whose erudition and distinction are in sharp contrast with his beat-up suitcase and stain-spotted raincoat, leads his shabby tourists from monument to monument. With his deep knowledge and enigmatic presence, Silvera captivates his clients, offering insights into the city's rich history and hidden treasures. However, beneath his polished exterior, there lies a darker secret, one that will soon be revealed.

Over the course of three days, their passion intensifies, exposing them to unscrupulous art dealers and other scammers who exploit their desire for authenticity. They are deceived into purchasing worthless paintings, believing them to be part of a famous collection. Silvera, with his seemingly omnipotent knowledge, seems to know every language and every secret. But who is he really? As the adventure unfolds, the canals and lagoons of Venice, a city that becomes a character in the novel in its own right, add an extra layer of mystery and intrigue.

Doyens of the Italian detective story, Fruttero and Lucentini, offer a perfect blend of the comedy of manners and the macabre, creating a narrative that is both captivating and entertaining. As they navigate through the labyrinthine streets of Venice, they encounter a cast of characters that are as diverse as the city itself. From the charming and eccentric artist, Gianni, to the enigmatic and seductive Countess, Isabella, each character adds a unique dimension to the story.

The novel's setting in Venice is an undiscovered gem, finally available in English for a wider audience to enjoy. With its witty dialogue, moving narrative, and enthrallingly atmospheric descriptions, this novel transports readers to the heart of Venice, where they can immerse themselves in the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and the intricate web of passion and suspicion that weaves its way through the streets.

In conclusion, "November in Venice" is a captivating tale that blends glamour, intrigue, and mystery in the enchanting city of Venice. Through the eyes of the Roman signora and the mysterious tour guide, readers are taken on a journey that explores the depths of passion, suspicion, and the hidden treasures of this iconic city. With its perfect blend of comedy of manners and macabre, this novel offers a unique and entertaining perspective on the world of art and detective stories. Whether you are a fan of Italian detective stories or simply seeking an immersive experience in the world of Venice, this novel is a must-read that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 196 x 130 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913394905