Donna Leon

Donna Leon is an American author known for her crime fiction novels featuring Commissario Guido Brunetti. Born in New Jersey in 1942, Leon moved to Venice, Italy, in 1981, where she has resided ever since. Her first Brunetti novel, "Death at La Fenice," was published in 1992 and went on to become a bestseller, launching a series that has sold millions of copies worldwide. Leon's novels offer a unique blend of crime and social commentary, delving into issues such as corruption, inequality, and the complexities of Italian society. Leon has received numerous awards for her work, including the Macavity Award, the Gold Dagger Award, and the Grand Prix de Littérature Policière. Her novels have been translated into over 30 languages and adapted into television series and films. The critical success of Donna Leon's work is attributed to her compelling characters, intricate plots, and insightful exploration of Italian culture and society. Her novels are praised for their nuanced depiction of Venice and its inhabitants, and for their thought-provoking reflections on human nature and ethical dilemmas.