A Sea of Troubles by Donna Leon
This story takes place mostly in Pellestrina, with a helpful map at the front of the book giving the reader who is less familiar with Venice a sense of where it is in relation to the rest of the city. The community here is a close-knit one of clam fisherman, most of them having lived there for generations and when a boat explodes and two bodies are found on board, the police find it hard to learn anything about the men and the situation, beyond what they can see themselves. Inspector Brunetti is on the case and he, as he often does, asks the department secretary Signorina Elettra, what she can find out.
She ends up going beyond her usual computer research and calling contacts and goes out to Pellestrina to visit a cousin, something she has done before, but this time putting herself in potential danger should anyone there connect her to the investigation.
Brunetti finds himself worried about her in a more personal way than he is comfortable with and Paola, his wife, notice that as well.
The bodies in the boat Squallus are a father and son, Guilio and Marco Bottin, Marco, and while Guilio seems to have an history of violence and disagreements, Marco is well liked.
Because of the need to travel a distance by boat to the community, we see more of a boat pilot for the police, Montisi, and he plays an important role. Vianello is the detective assisting Brunetti and we also see him more fully in this story.
This is a case that reaches into the past, but also is about families and small communities.
Another important aspect of the story is the sea itself and how weather can change how it behaves so quickly and change outcomes.
And, as always in Leon's books, there is food, both good and no so good.
A great addition to the series.
map provided
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