Through a Glass Darkly

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 22 September 2022
Publisher: Cornerstone

Leon, the acclaimed author, has once again delivered a captivating literary masterpiece that effortlessly absorbs readers into its intricate world. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Venice on a luminous spring day, Commissario Brunetti and Inspettore Vianello find themselves drawn into a thrilling rescue mission when Vianello's friend Marco Ribetti is unjustly arrested while protesting against the chemical pollution of the Venetian lagoon. However, their efforts are met with the fury of Marco's father-in-law, the owner of a glass factory on the island of Murano.

Unbeknownst to them, Marco has uncovered a dark and guilty secret lurking within the polluting glass foundries of Murano. Tragically, his body is found dead in front of the furnaces, which burn at an astonishing 1400 degrees, day and night. As Brunetti delves deeper into this case, he discovers that the victim has left clues hidden within a copy of Dante's Inferno. It becomes his mission to descend into the depths of hell and unravel the identity of the person responsible for burning the land and fouling the waters of the lagoon.

Leon's witty portrayal of modern Venetian life, coupled with Brunetti's enduring and harmonious marriage, adds an extra layer of entertainment to this already captivating story. From start to finish, A Joy is a testament to Leon's exceptional storytelling abilities, as he weaves together intricate plotlines, memorable characters, and a deep understanding of the city's culture and history.

The critical reception of the book has been nothing short of extraordinary. The Evening Standard praised it as a "joy from start to finish," highlighting the author's ability to create a smart and stylish, fast-paced case of intrigue and corruption. The Los Angeles Times described it as "impressive," praising the author's wit, affection, and authority in bringing this intricate story to life.

A Joy is a must-read for fans of detective fiction, as well as anyone who appreciates a well-crafted and engaging narrative. Leon's talent for creating vivid characters and intricate plots ensures that readers will be captivated from the first page to the last.

Weight: 245g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529158328