The Jewels of Paradise
(Author) Donna LeonFrom the bestselling author of the Brunetti crime series comes The Jewels of Paradise, a gripping tale of intrigue, music, history and greed and Donna Leon's first stand-alone novel. Caterina Pellegrini is a young Venetian musicologist hired to find the rightful heir to an alleged treasure concealed by a once-famous, but now almost forgotten, baroque composer. Sworn to secrecy, Caterina can solve the mystery only by searching through the papers contained in two chests that have not been opened for centuries. As she delves into all quarters of his life, she is drawn into one of the most scandalous affairs of the baroque era. What dark secrets do these chests hold, and just whom can she trust?
Donna Leon
Donna Leon is an American author best known for her crime novels set in Venice and featuring the fictional detective Commissario Guido Brunetti. Her most notable works include "Death at La Fenice," "Acqua Alta," and "Through a Glass, Darkly."
Leon's writing style is characterized by intricate plots, vivid descriptions of Venice, and a focus on social issues such as corruption and environmental degradation. She is praised for her ability to create complex, multi-dimensional characters and explore moral dilemmas in her stories.
Leon's contributions to literature include bringing attention to the beauty and challenges of life in Venice, as well as shedding light on important social issues facing contemporary society. Her novels have had a significant impact on the crime fiction genre, blending mystery and social commentary in a unique and compelling way.
One of Donna Leon's most famous works is "Death at La Fenice," the first novel in the Commissario Brunetti series, which introduces readers to the charming and astute detective as he investigates a murder at the famous opera house in Venice. This book set the stage for a successful series that has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.