Review for The Girl of his Dreams

Wow!

This is the first Donna Leon novel I have read and to begin with, I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it.  I found the writing style quite 'quiet' and understated and I usually like my novels a bit more 'in your face'!

However, it didn't take long to realise that I was hooked - looking forward to sneakily reading a few pages at every opportunity.  The amazing descriptions of Venice alone made me feel as if I had travelled there from the safety and comfort of my armchair.  I think it was more the gritty, day to day perspective that appealed.  I wasn't subjected to the travel agents sales patter, but found out how you live in a city so crowded with tourists, how it affects your life, your choices and your day to day.

The tale was delivered in the same understated way, and cleverly I think that's what made the details so harrowing.  Fans of Donna Leon will be familiar with Commissario Brunetti but this was my first visit with him.   

Dealing with a family funeral and the discovery of a dead child in a canal, we explore dis-interest and hostility when prejudice rises and the dangers of facing up to them.

I'll be reading another.