By Its Cover

By Donna Leon | Publisher: Random House

About the book

The 23rd installment in the brilliant Brunetti series from The Sunday Times bestselling author, Donna Leon.

A Washington Post Bestseller

A New York Times Bestseller

‘Inspired by the real-life looting of the Girolamini Library in Naples, this book adds to Donna Leon’s best-selling Commissario Guido Brunetti series . . . Leon’s description of the setting is vivid’ New York Times

‘Will both delight and strike fear into bibliophiles’ hearts. . . . A finely drawn tale that encompasses theft, blackmail, emotional violence, and murder, as well as a rich array of characters . . .’ Boston Globe

When several valuable antiquarian books go missing from a prestigious library in the heart of Venice, Commissario Brunetti is immediately called to the scene. The staff suspect an American researcher has stolen them, but for Brunetti something doesn't quite add up.

Taking on the case, the Commissario begins to seek information about some of the library's regulars, such as the ex-priest Franchini, a passionate reader of ancient Christian literature, and Contessa Morosini-Albani, the library's chief donor.

Soon Brunetti finds himself submerged in the dark secrets of the black market of antiquarian books. Alongside his ever-faithful team of Ispettore Vianello and Signorina Elettra, he delves into the pages of Franchini's past and into the mind of a book thief in order to uncover the terrible truth.

Editions of By Its Cover

Paperback
ISBN 9780099591283
EBook
ISBN 9781473505070
AudioStreaming
ISBN 9781473506275

Read an Excerpt

The 23rd installment in the brilliant Brunetti series from The Sunday Times bestselling author, Donna Leon.

A Washington Post Bestseller

A New York Times Bestseller

‘Inspired by the real-life looting of the Girolamini Library in Naples, this book adds to Donna Leon’s best-selling Commissario Guido Brunetti series . . . Leon’s description of the setting is vivid’ New York Times

‘Will both delight and strike fear into bibliophiles’ hearts. . . . A finely drawn tale that encompasses theft, blackmail, emotional violence, and murder, as well as a rich array of characters . . .’ Boston Globe

When several valuable antiquarian books go missing from a prestigious library in the heart of Venice, Commissario Brunetti is immediately called to the scene. The staff suspect an American researcher has stolen them, but for Brunetti something doesn't quite add up.

Taking on the case, the Commissario begins to seek information about some of the library's regulars, such as the ex-priest Franchini, a passionate reader of ancient Christian literature, and Contessa Morosini-Albani, the library's chief donor.

Soon Brunetti finds himself submerged in the dark secrets of the black market of antiquarian books. Alongside his ever-faithful team of Ispettore Vianello and Signorina Elettra, he delves into the pages of Franchini's past and into the mind of a book thief in order to uncover the terrible truth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is By Its Cover about?

The 23rd installment in the brilliant Brunetti series from The Sunday Times bestselling author, Donna Leon.

A Washington Post Bestseller

A New York Times Bestseller

‘Inspired by the real-life looting of the Girolamini Library in Naples, this book adds to Donna Leon’s best-selling Commissario Guido Brunetti series . . . Leon’s description of the setting is vivid’ New York Times

‘Will both delight and strike fear into bibliophiles’ hearts. . . . A finely drawn tale that encompasses theft, blackmail, emotional violence, and murder, as well as a rich array of characters . . .’ Boston Globe

When several valuable antiquarian books go missing from a prestigious library in the heart of Venice, Commissario Brunetti is immediately called to the scene. The staff suspect an American researcher has stolen them, but for Brunetti something doesn't quite add up.

Taking on the case, the Commissario begins to seek information about some of the library's regulars, such as the ex-priest Franchini, a passionate reader of ancient Christian literature, and Contessa Morosini-Albani, the library's chief donor.

Soon Brunetti finds himself submerged in the dark secrets of the black market of antiquarian books. Alongside his ever-faithful team of Ispettore Vianello and Signorina Elettra, he delves into the pages of Franchini's past and into the mind of a book thief in order to uncover the terrible truth.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in By Its Cover?

Fiction > Crime and / or mystery fiction

Where can I read a sample of By Its Cover?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780099591283

Who is/are the Author/s of the book By Its Cover?

Donna Leon

Who is the Publisher of the book By Its Cover?

Random House

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

By Its Cover is available as paperback(ISBN 9780099591283) and ebook(ISBN 9781473505070) and audiostreaming(ISBN 9781473506275)

Where can I buy By Its Cover online or support local independent bookshops?

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Where can I buy By Its Cover?