Donna Leon: Give unto Others, 978152915119, Heinemann UK (Penguin Random House) trade paperback, publication date: March 3, 2022

As is often the case when I start a new Donna Leon novel, I find myself almost slightly bored by the seemingly insignificant story line during the first 20 % of the book but am amazed  at the same time  at her precise  observations and  careful description of human  psyche and behavior. 

“Give onto Others”  is no exception, the favor  Commissario Brunetti  does for his former neighbor Elisabetta in looking into something seemingly private and unimportant around her daughter’s life  branches out into all directions leading nowhere.  Only in the middle of the book, when her daughter’s veterinarian office is vandalized, does Brunetti step into action and the book gathers speed when he decides to look into his neighbor’s family background and motive.

I like Donna Leon’s subtle way of developing an often non bloody but psychologically astute plot. And of course there are always scenes of Venice, food, drink, Brunetti’s family and colleagues and reflections on Italy’s or Venice’s shortcomings which   always makes for a fine, escapist  reading time. It is a bit like visiting friends.