‘The book is written with that depth of thought about crime and humanity that characterises the best of Leon’s work.’ Independent

‘[A] fine, atmospheric novel…Twenty-one books on, [Leon] has lost none of her delightful skill and wit.’ Evening Standard

When a body is found floating in a canal, strangely disfigured and with multiple stab wounds, Commissario Brunetti is called to investigate. He is convinced he recognises the man from somewhere, but with a pair of distinctive shoes as the only clue, the case cannot progress.

Recalling a violent farmers’ protest that took place the previous year, Brunetti suddenly remembers the victim. But what was his involvement with the protest, and what does it have to do with his murder? Acting on this fragile lead, Brunetti and Inspector Vianello set out on an investigation that will lead them from Venice’s placid canals to the slaughterhouse, and into a terrifying world of blackmail and corruption.

Both a gripping case and a harrowing exploration of the dark side of Italy''s food industry, Donna Leon''s latest novel is a compelling addition to the Brunetti series.