Donna Leon

Donna Leon is an American crime novelist best known for her celebrated mystery series set in Venice, Italy. Having lived in Venice for over thirty years while teaching English literature, her deep familiarity with Italian culture and bureaucracy permeates her writing.

She is best known as the creator of the Commissario Guido Brunetti mystery series, which began with Death at La Fenice and includes over thirty novels, such as Friends in High Places. Her works have been translated into dozens of languages and adapted for television in Europe.

Leon’s rich atmosphere, witty dialogue, and subtle critiques of environmental and political issues have won her critical acclaim worldwide. She remains one of the most respected figures in international crime fiction.