Give Unto Others

It is always a joy to read another book set in Venice by Donna Leon. Give Unto Others is number 31 in the Commissario Brunetti series and it doesn't disappoint. Donna Leon's books are as much about Venice and the characters portrayed in the books as  about any crime that may have been commited.

This book is set after the major COVID-19 wave in Venice, a city that relies heavily on tourism but has been devistated by the effects of months of restrictions and fear that have basically reduced the once thriving city to a shell of its former glory.

When Guido Brunetti arrives at work one day he discovers that he has a visitor - a former neighbour from when he was very young. Elisabetta tells Guido that she is concerned that her daughter may be in danger and can he quietly investigate without making it official police business. Guido is reluctant to become involved but he remembers that Elisabetta's mother had always been kind to his mother and feels obliged to at least do some preliminary research - a decision that he later comes to regret.

As he investigates the story that Elisabetta gave hime, Guido soon discovers a darker story that may involve fraud. However it is also obvious that obtaining proof may be impossible. Meanwhile he does discover Elisabetta's real motive for her visit revealing a complex web of relationships and revenge.