Donna Leon has released her 27th book in the ‘Brunetti’ series. Environmental damage, the pressures of tourism and serious corruption in beautiful but troubled Venice are all mentioned. This time, however, the emphasis is on the perils of giving way to temptation. Fans will know that the journey we take with Guido Brunetti, a Commissario di Polizia of the City of Venice, is as important as the denouement.

Brunetti is advised there’s been a leak of important information from inside police headquarters. Later, he hears that drugs are being sold to teenagers outside a prestigious private school. Investigations are underway when he receives a phone call. A man has been attacked and is in a coma. The patient is Tullio Gasparini. His son attends the school that’s under police investigation.

Brunetti requests the help of colleagues whom regular readers have come to know and respect: the loyal Inspettore Lorenzo Vianello; the perceptive Commissario Claudia Griffoni; and the ever-resourceful Signorina Elettra Zorzi. Usually ultra-careful and discreet, Elettra may not have covered her tracks as effectively as in the past and stressful consequences are in the offing.

The Temptation of Forgiveness, like other novels in the series, is a police procedural that moves at a measured, thoughtful pace. It appeals to the intellect and the heart. Brunetti takes time to enjoy a stroll, read the newspapers, eat a leisurely meal and gaze out of his office window. The author has produced a well-crafted and engaging mystery exposing the darker aspects of life in modern Venice. It’s not action packed, fast moving with hair-raising car chases. It deals with relationships, desperation and greed. However, the joys of life and the fight against crime are nicely balanced.

Reviewed by Clive Hodges