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94 reviews for:

Nobleza obliga

Donna Leon

3.81 AVERAGE


I like Donna Leon and this novel, somewhat confusingly reissued from 1998 with a snazzy new cover, was a fast and pleasurable read. It was sad, but I figured out what happened quite quickly, so the sadness was diminished a little. Again, Brunotti (can't remember if that's his exact name and am too lazy to go check) and his family and Italian food and outlook are all as engrossing as the plot itself. Another series I really enjoy!

deliciously relaxed and venetian. An easy thoughtful book.

I'm on a Donna Leon kick right now, and I enjoyed this book a great deal, because of the beautiful writing, the intriguing crime plot, and all the introspection by Guido about his marriage, his children and his father-in-law.
challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
dark emotional mysterious sad tense
slow-paced
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

This is a weak entry in the series—almost felt like a ghost writer

Probably 3.5 stars. Loved expansions of the Brunetti family dynamics, and the mystery was very complex. But that plot line was so depressing.

I really liked this one. Good, intricate plot; nice denouement.
challenging dark emotional mysterious medium-paced

I did not remember most of the plot, even tough this must be my second re-read and I remember the other books in the series way better.
This book is just tragic. From finding the body to everything else that happens in this book.
The illegal transport of radioactive material and using your own son to do so. This poor boy certainly died a tragic and painful death. The father has to live with the guilt of having caused three deaths in his family and being the last one left.

I enjoyed Brunetti talking to the conte and his relationship with his wife and kids.