''A splendid series . . . with a backdrop of the city so vivid you can almost smell it.'' The Sunday Telegraph

Winner of the Suntory Mystery Fiction Grand Prize

The twisted maze of Venice''s canals has always been shrouded in mystery. Even the celebrated opera house, La Fenice, has seen its share of death ... but none so horrific and violent as that of world-famous conductor, Maestro Helmut Wellauer, who was poisoned during a performance of La Traviata. Even Commissario of Police, Guido Brunetti, used to the labyrinthine corruptions of the city, is shocked at the number of enemies Wellauer has made on his way to the top - but just how many have motive enough for murder? The beauty of Venice is crumbling. But evil is one thing that will never erode with age.

''What a ripping first mystery, as beguiling and secretly sinister as Venice herself. Sparkling and irresistible.'' Rita Mae Brown

''Donna Leon has given fans of subtle, clever and literate mysteries something to cheer about. . . . A wonderful read.'' Tony Hillerman