Want to read Donna Leon Brunetti series in order? Start here! Guido Brunetti is a police detective in Venice, Italy. He solves crimes in Donna Leon’s popular books. Since his first case in “Death At La Fenice” over 30 years ago, Brunetti has investigated a new crime every year. He’s looked into corruption, mafia, real estate, and art deals and has become a favourite among millions of readers worldwide. You’ll love these books if you like stories about complex crimes and understanding the people involved.
Commissario Brunetti books in order: the complete series:
1. Death at La Fenice (1992)
Death at La Fenice” by Donna Leon is a gripping mystery set in Venice. When renowned conductor Maestro Helmut Wellauer is found dead at La Fenice opera house, Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates. As he navigates the intricate opera world, Brunetti uncovers secrets, scandals, and motives that lead him to the killer. With its vivid Venetian setting and nuanced characters, this novel combines culture, intrigue, and suspense. The first in Leon’s beloved Brunetti series, “Death at La Fenice”, is a captivating read exploring human nature’s darker side in a city of beauty and passion.
2. Death in a Strange Country (1993)
Death in a Strange Country” is the second novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 1993. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of an American soldier whose body is found in a Venetian canal. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of military and civilian interests and a tangled trail of clues that lead him from the canals of Venice to the U.S. military base in nearby Vicenza. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced characters, “Death in a Strange Country” explores identity, community, and the human cost of military presence.
3. The Anonymous Venetian (1994)
“The Anonymous Venetian” is the third novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 1994. The story revolves around the death of a musician who is found dead in a Venice canal, wearing a Carnival mask and a wig. As Brunetti investigates, he uncovers a complex case involving a web of secrets, deceit, and hidden identities. The novel explores themes of identity, anonymity, and the blurred lines between reality and appearance. With its atmospheric Venetian setting and Brunetti’s thoughtful, reflective approach, “The Anonymous Venetian” is a captivating mystery that delves into the complexities of human nature and the city’s mysterious allure.
4. A Venetian Reckoning (1995)
A Venetian Reckoning” is the fourth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 1995. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a prominent Venetian lawyer, whose body is found in a cemetery. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of corruption, blackmail, and deceit that leads him to confront the darker aspects of Venetian society. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced characters, “A Venetian Reckoning” is a gripping mystery that explores the consequences of past actions and the true meaning of justice. Brunetti’s reflective approach and the novel’s atmospheric setting add depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read.
5. Acqua Alta (1996)
Aqua Alta” is the fifth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 1996. The story occurs during Venice’s flood season, where the high tide (aqua alta) has transformed the city. Brunetti investigates the murder of a conservative politician’s wife, whose body is found during the flooding. As he navigates the treacherous, literal and metaphorical waters, Brunetti uncovers a complex case involving corruption, sexism, and the darker side of Venetian politics. With its vivid descriptions of Venice’s unique environment and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “Aqua Alta” is a captivating mystery that explores the intersections of crime, politics, and social issues.
6. The Death of Faith (1997)
The Death of Faith” is the sixth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 1997. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a young nun, Sister Leonora, who is found dead in a remote convent on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of secrets, scandals, and corruption within the Catholic Church. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced characters, “The Death of Faith” is a gripping mystery that explores the tensions between faith, power, and morality. Brunetti’s reflective approach and the novel’s atmospheric setting add depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read.
7. A Noble Radiance (1998)
A Noble Radiance” is the seventh novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 1998. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the kidnapping of a young boy from a noble Venetian family. As he delves deeper into the case, Brunetti uncovers a complex web of family secrets, ancient rivalries, and hidden agendas. With its vivid descriptions of Venetian society and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “A Noble Radiance” is a captivating mystery that explores the intersections of family, power, and identity. The novel’s title refers to the noble families of Venice, whose radiance and grandeur hide secrets and scandals that Brunetti must uncover to solve the case.
8. Fatal Remedies (1999)
Fatal Remedies” is the eighth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 1999. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a pharmacist’s wife, who was involved in a local campaign against a proposed incinerator project. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of environmental activism, corruption, and deceit. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced characters, “Fatal Remedies” is a gripping mystery that explores the tensions between progress, power, and the environment. Brunetti’s reflective approach and the novel’s atmospheric setting add depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read.
9. Friends in High Places (2000)
Friends in High Places” is the ninth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2000. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a Venetian construction worker who fell from a scaffold. As he delves deeper into the case, Brunetti uncovers a complex web of corruption, bribery, and deceit involving the city’s powerful elite. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced characters, “Friends in High Places” is a gripping mystery exploring Venetian society’s darker side and the corrupting influence of power. Brunetti’s reflective approach and the novel’s atmospheric setting add depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read.
10. A Sea of Troubles (2001)
A Sea of Troubles” is the tenth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2001. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of two fishermen on the island of Pellestrina, where he has a family vacation home. As he delves deeper into the case, Brunetti uncovers a complex web of secrets, lies, and corruption involving the local fishing industry and the island’s tight-knit community. With its vivid descriptions of Venetian life and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “A Sea of Troubles” is a captivating mystery that explores the tensions between tradition, power, and the environment. The novel’s atmospheric setting and nuanced characters add depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read.
11. Wilful Behaviour (2002)
Wilful Behaviour” is the eleventh novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2002. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a wealthy Venetian woman whose body is found in her apartment. As he delves deeper into the case, Brunetti uncovers a complex web of secrets, family dynamics, and deceit. The novel explores themes of family, power, and the complexities of human relationships. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s introspective approach, “Wilful Behaviour” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “Wilful Behaviour” refers to the idea that the victim’s death may have been a result of her wilful actions, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation.
12. Uniform Justice (2003)
Uniform Justice” is the twelfth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2003. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a young cadet at the Venetian military academy, which appears to be a suicide. However, Brunetti suspects foul play and uncovers a complex web of corruption, bullying, and deceit within the academy’s walls. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced characters, “Uniform Justice” is a gripping mystery that explores the tensions between tradition, power, and individuality. Brunetti’s reflective approach and the novel’s atmospheric setting add depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read. “Uniform Justice” refers to the idea that justice may be compromised by the uniformity and conformity expected within institutions like the military academy.
13. Doctored Evidence (2004)
Doctored Evidence” is the thirteenth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2004 (not 2003). The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of an older woman who was found dead in her apartment. The case seems straightforward, but Brunetti soon discovers that the evidence has been manipulated, leading him to question everything. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a complex web of deceit, corruption, and family secrets. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “Doctored Evidence” is a captivating mystery that explores the tensions between truth, power, and justice. The title “Doctored Evidence” refers to the idea that evidence can be manipulated or fabricated to support a particular narrative or outcome.
14. Blood from a Stone (2005)
Blood from a Stone” is the fourteenth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2005. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a Senegalese street vendor who was stabbed to death in a Venice market. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of illegal immigration, human trafficking, and corruption. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced characters, “Blood from a Stone” is a gripping mystery that explores the tensions between culture, identity, and justice. Brunetti’s reflective approach and the novel’s atmospheric setting add depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read. The title “Blood from a Stone” refers to the idea that it’s challenging to get something from nothing but also hints at the violence and bloodshed that underlies the story.
15. Through a Glass, Darkly (2006)
Through a Glass, Darkly” is the fifteenth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2006. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a wealthy Venetian businessman whose body is found on a remote island. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of family secrets, deceit, and corruption. The novel explores themes of family dynamics, power struggles, and the blurred lines between good and evil. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “Through a Glass, Darkly” is a captivating mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title references a biblical phrase, suggesting that our understanding of truth is always imperfect and filtered through our perspectives.
16. Suffer the Little Children (2007)
Suffer the Little Children” is the sixteenth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2007. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a young girl who died under suspicious circumstances at a Venice hospital. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of medical malpractice, corruption, and deceit. The novel explores themes of family, responsibility, and the vulnerability of children. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s introspective approach, “Suffer the Little Children” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title is a reference to a biblical phrase, emphasizing the vulnerability and innocence of children and highlighting the tragic consequences of neglect and abuse.
17. The Girl of His Dreams (2008)
The Girl of His Dreams” is the seventeenth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2008. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a Romani girl whose body is found in a Venice canal. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of racial tensions, prejudice, and deceit. The novel explores themes of identity, community, and social justice. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “The Girl of His Dreams” is a captivating mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title refers to the idea that the victim was someone’s daughter, someone’s girl and that her life and dreams were cut short by violence and neglect.
18. About Face (2009)
About Face” is the eighteenth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2009. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a wealthy Venetian businessman, whose death is linked to a complex web of corruption, deceit, and family secrets. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he must navigate the treacherous waters of Venetian society and confront his own biases and assumptions. The novel explores themes of identity, class, and the blurred lines between good and evil. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s introspective approach, “About Face” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. “About Face” refers to turning things around, seeing things from a different perspective, and confronting assumptions and biases.
19. A Question of Belief (2010)
A Question of Belief” is the nineteenth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2010. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a Venetian lawyer, whose death is linked to a complex web of corruption, deceit, and religious fanaticism. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he must navigate the treacherous waters of Venetian society and confront his own beliefs and values. The novel explores themes of faith, morality, and the tensions between tradition and modernity. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “A Question of Belief” is a captivating mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “A Question of Belief” refers to the idea that the case challenges Brunetti’s beliefs and forces him to confront the complexities of human nature.
20. Drawing Conclusions (2011)
Drawing Conclusions” is the twentieth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2011. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a young woman whose body is found in her apartment. Initially, it appears to be a natural death, but Brunetti suspects foul play and uncovers a complex web of secrets, lies, and deceit. The novel explores themes of family dynamics, relationships, and the complexities of human behaviour. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s introspective approach, “Drawing Conclusions” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “Drawing Conclusions” refers to the idea that Brunetti must piece together the evidence and draw conclusions about the case, but also hints at the notion that findings can be misleading or incomplete.
21. Beastly Things (2012)
Beastly Things” is the twenty-first novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2012. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a veterinarian whose body is found in a canal. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of secrets, corruption, and deceit in the Venice veterinary clinic where the victim worked. The novel explores themes of animal welfare, ethics, and the darker aspects of human nature. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “Beastly Things” is a gripping mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “Beastly Things” refers to the idea that humans can be capable of beastly behaviour and also hints at the animal-related themes of the novel.
22. The Golden Egg (2013)
The Golden Egg” is the twenty-second novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2013. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a mentally challenged man who died under suspicious circumstances. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of secrets, neglect, and deceit. The novel explores themes of family dynamics, social responsibility, and the treatment of vulnerable individuals. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s introspective approach, “The Golden Egg” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “The Golden Egg” refers to the idea that the victim, despite his limitations, has a unique value and worth, like a precious golden egg.
23. By Its Cover (2014)
By Its Cover” is the twenty-third novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2014. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the theft of rare books from a Venetian library, which leads him to uncover a complex web of corruption, deceit, and murder. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he must navigate the treacherous waters of academic and cultural institutions. The novel explores themes of identity, authenticity, and the value of knowledge. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “By Its Cover” is a captivating mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “By Its Cover” refers to the idea that things are not always what they seem and that appearances can be deceiving.
24. Falling in Love (2015)
Falling in Love” is the twenty-fourth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2015. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a famous opera singer, who was found dead in her dressing room. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of secrets, rivalries, and deceit in opera. The novel explores themes of love, passion, and the darker aspects of human nature. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s introspective approach, “Falling in Love” is a gripping mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “Falling in Love” refers to the idea that the victim was a charismatic figure who inspired strong emotions in those around her, but also hints at the idea that love can be a destructive force.
25. The Waters of Eternal Youth (2016)
The Waters of Eternal Youth” is the twenty-fifth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2016. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the case of a young girl who was left in a coma after a drowning accident 15 years earlier. When the girl’s grandmother approaches Brunetti, he reopens the case, uncovering a complex web of secrets, deceit, and corruption. The novel explores themes of family, trauma, and the power of the past to shape our lives. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “The Waters of Eternal Youth” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title refers to the myth of the Fountain of Youth, hinting at the idea that the past can have a lasting impact on our lives.
26. Earthly Remains (2017)
Earthly Remains” is the twenty-sixth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2017. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a Venetian botanist who is researching a rare plant species. As Brunetti delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of secrets, corruption, and deceit in botany and environmentalism. The novel explores themes of family, loyalty, and the tension between progress and preservation. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s introspective approach, “Earthly Remains” is a captivating mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “Earthly Remains” refers to the idea that even in death, the natural world can hold secrets and stories that must be uncovered.
27. The Temptation of Forgiveness (2018)
The Temptation of Forgiveness” is the twenty-seventh novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2018. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a wealthy businessman whose death is linked to a complex web of family secrets, deceit, and corruption. Meanwhile, Brunetti’s family is dealing with a personal crisis, forcing him to confront his values and beliefs. The novel explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the complexities of human relationships. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “The Temptation of Forgiveness” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title refers to the idea that forgiveness can be a tempting but difficult path, especially in the Face of betrayal and hurt.
28. Unto Us a Son Is Given (2019)
Unto Us a Son Is Given” is the twenty-eighth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2019. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a wealthy older man whose family is embroiled in a complex web of secrets, deceit, and family dynamics. Meanwhile, Brunetti’s family is dealing with a personal crisis, forcing him to confront his values and beliefs. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “Unto Us a Son Is Given” is a captivating mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title refers to the idea that family can be both a blessing and a burden and that the arrival of a new family member can bring joy and challenges.
29. Trace Elements (2020)
Trace Elements” is the twenty-ninth novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2020. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the death of a young woman whose body is found in a canal. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of secrets, corruption, and deceit related to environmental pollution and toxic waste. Meanwhile, Brunetti’s own life is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, adding an extra layer of complexity to the story. The novel explores themes of family, loyalty, and the impact of human actions on the environment. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s introspective approach, “Trace Elements” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “Trace Elements” refers to the idea that small, often hidden, elements can significantly impact our lives and the world around us.
30. Transient Desires (2021)
In “Transient Desires” (2021), Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the murder of a young woman whose body is found in a Venice canal. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of relationships and desires that led to her death. Meanwhile, Brunetti’s family is dealing with the challenges of modern life, including his son’s struggles with social media and his wife’s concerns about ageing. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and thoughtful exploration of human relationships, “Transient Desires” is a captivating mystery that keeps readers engaged until the end.
31. Give Unto Others (2022)
Give Unto Others” is the thirty-first novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2022. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a wealthy businessman whose death is linked to a complex web of secrets, deceit, and corruption in the world of art and antiquities. Meanwhile, Brunetti’s life is affected by changes in his family and the Venetian community, forcing him to confront his values and priorities. The novel explores themes of family, loyalty, and the tension between tradition and progress. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “Give Unto Others” is a captivating mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “Give Unto Others” refers to the idea that our actions have consequences for those around us and that we must consider the impact of our choices on others.
32. So Shall You Reap (2023)
So Shall You Reap” is the thirty-second novel in Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series, published in 2023. The story follows Brunetti as he investigates the murder of a young woman whose death is linked to a complex web of secrets, deceit, and corruption in the world of social media and online identity. Meanwhile, Brunetti’s life is affected by changes in his family and the Venetian community, forcing him to confront his values and priorities. The novel explores themes of identity, community, and the tension between tradition and modernity. With its nuanced characters, atmospheric setting, and Brunetti’s thoughtful approach, “So Shall You Reap” is a thought-provoking mystery that keeps readers engaged. The title “So Shall You Reap” refers to the idea that our actions have consequences and that we must be mindful of the impact of our choices on ourselves and others.
33. A Refiner’s Fire (2024)
In Venice, two gangs of teenagers fight. The son of a well-known man is involved. A rich person asks Commissario Brunetti to investigate this man, Monforte. But Brunetti finds out Monforte could be better than people think. When someone attacks one of Brunetti’s coworkers, he looks deeper. He discovers Monforte’s past is not what it seems. The gangs meet again, and Brunetti tries to make things right. He wants to find the truth and bring peace to the community. Brunetti works hard to solve the case and make sure justice is served.
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