This sure brought back memories of my trip to Venice over a decade ago. The descriptions were so authentic, atmospheric, and engaging to the senses it is worth reading this just to enjoy a slice of that city!
As for the mystery I was a little disappointed with the reveal at the end as it did not really add up well and felt forced and sudden. But I must admit I did not guess the culprit

This time Lady Swift, and Clifford, enjoying the magnificent sights of Venice, notice an argument begin between a gondolier and a passenger later to be identified as Councillour Benetto Vendelini who was later discovered with a knife in his back!

Through the many canals and over the many bridges of Venice, follow along as Eleanor and her faithful butler Clifford seem to once again be mixed up in a world of murder, disseat and the love between the two Venetian families that have been rivals for centuries.

Another "can not put down" book in the Lady Swift series.

This is an entertaining and engaging murder mystery set in the romantic city of Venice in the 1920s. Lady Eleanor Swift has inherited her uncles fortune and has had to switch from her previous bohemian lifestyle to one that has many rules on etiquette and expected behaviours. There is lots of amusing dialogue around these expectations with her butler, Clifford, as the two of them embark on a holiday in Venice. They are accompanied by Gladstone, her bulldog, Tomkins her tom cat and four female members of her household staff who provide plenty of amusement throughout.

The story starts with a chance encounter with a young woman with striking blue eyes in St Marks Square which sets of a chain of intrigue involving traditional values and ways of life. Combined with an age old family feud, ill fated lovers and a couple of murders and this makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read.

The sites of Venice are carefully described along with some excellent historical detail. The narrative is rich in detail of the labyrinths of canals and narrow alleyways and conveys the hustle and bustle of Venetian life of this period.

This is the 17th book in the Lady Eleanor Swift series. Highly recommended for a light hearted read with fun characters, fantastic scenery and an interesting plot. My only minor criticism is that the conclusion felt slightly rushed and the motive for the murders a little weak.

I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of A Death in Venice, the seventeenth novel to feature Lady Eleanor Swift and her butler, Clifford, set in 1924.

On holiday in Venice Eleanor is enjoying her first gondola trip when she sees a dispute on another gondola end with the passenger in the canal, a knife in his back. The victim is town councillor Benetto Vendelini and the gondolier is a member of the opposing family in a centuries long feud, currently in an uneasy truce. So will the truce last?

I enjoyed A Death in Venice, due to the fun and amusing dialogue between Eleanor and Clifford. I must admit that I thought the plot was thin and barely credible with all sorts of unlikely events, not least Eleanor sticking her nose in, as normally there is some kind of justification for it whereas this feels contrived.

Much of the early novel is spent touring the highlights of Venice so it’s quite slow, dead bodies notwithstanding. It introduces several characters and examines the feud. The action heats up in the second half, but I can’t say that I found it riveting or cared overly much about the outcome. Is it not a bit patronising to centre the plot on an Italian cliché of feuding families?

Still, Eleanor, Clifford and the Ladies supply fun and laughter to make it an entertaining read.

Who is ready for a holiday? Venice sounds like a great place to go and reading about it in the pages of Verity Bright's latest novel A Death in Venice made me want to go. However, I doubt it would be much like the Venice Lady Eleanor Swift visited in 1924.

This is a fun read. It is book 17 in the series, but you can read this one on its own. I've been reading this series for a while (since book 3) and still really enjoy it.

The relationship between Eleanor and her butler Clifford is changing and I like that he is becoming more of a friend and partner. Sometimes when Eleanor travels we don't get to see her other downstairs employees known collectively as "the ladies", but they have been given a holiday in Venice too. They make brief appearances throughout the story but I always want more because they are just so much fun.

It isn't all fun and games (and shopping!). It looks like someone wants to restart the feud between two prominent families and Eleanor is caught in the middle of it. I enjoyed the mystery and it lets us see some different parts of Venice - those off the tourist typical path.

Whether you are dreaming of a beach vacation or just want a fun mystery, you can't go wrong with this novel.

My review will be published at Girl Who Reads on Sunday, March 17 - https://www.girl-who-reads.com/2024/03/a-death-in-venice-by-verity-bright.html

Book Review: A Death in Venice by Verity Bright

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Lady Eleanor Swift finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery in the enchanting city of Venice. As she unravels the clues to solve the crime, she discovers dark secrets and treacherous plots that threaten to shatter the tranquility of the Venetian canals."

Verity Bright's "A Death in Venice" takes readers on a captivating journey through the bustling streets and picturesque canals of Venice in 1924. Lady Eleanor Swift, accompanied by her loyal butler Clifford, sets out to enjoy the festivities of the famous carnival. However, their idyllic gondola ride is interrupted by a shocking murder that plunges Eleanor into a web of deceit and intrigue.

The author masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, blending intricate details of Venetian culture with a gripping whodunit plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. From glamorous balls to shadowy alleyways, the story unfolds against a rich tapestry of historical backdrop, immersing readers in the sights and sounds of this captivating city.

One of the highlights of this book is the meticulous attention to detail in crafting the setting. Bright's vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of Venice, allowing them to experience the beauty and mystery of this iconic city firsthand. The engaging writing style keeps the pace brisk, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged as they follow Eleanor's quest for justice.

While the mystery itself is expertly crafted, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing, the true charm of the story lies in its delightful cast of characters. From the resourceful Lady Eleanor to her faithful companion Gladstone, each character is brought to life with warmth and wit, making them instantly endearing to readers.

However, amidst all the intrigue and excitement, there is one aspect that falls slightly short—namely, the underdeveloped romance between Eleanor and Hugh. Their relationship feels somewhat lacking in depth and fails to add significant emotional depth to the story. Despite this minor flaw, "A Death in Venice" remains a captivating read that will appeal to fans of historical mysteries and cozy whodunits. Whether you're a fan of Agatha Christie or simply love a good old-fashioned whodunit, this book is sure to captivate your imagination and leave you eagerly awaiting Lady Eleanor's next adventure.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

A Death In Venice was such a lovely treat! The description of the food, the royals, Venice and the gondolas left me happy and fulfilled as if I too had accompanied Lady Swift, her adorable pets and the indispensable Clifford. It felt like a grown up murder mystery, where it wasn’t solely focused on the murder, but the characters enjoyed their trip and I enjoyed it right alongside them. I connected with Clifford who is basically the human version of Wikipedia. Oh, and I really liked reading Lady Swift's inner voice, it felt like a whole other character. Highly recommend and it can be read as a standalone.

3.75* rounded up

Lady Swift, Clifford, the Ladies and animal sidekicks are travelling again and this time have set up shop in Venice to experience Carnival. Whilst riding on a Gondola to take in the sights, Eleanor has the unfortunate bad luck to witness a murder which, as we have come to expect and love, leads Ellie down the winding and narrow streets of Venice seeking to uncover secrets and solve the case.

This series is one of my favourite historical 'cosy' mysteries and is reliably fun and (generally) fast paced, and I love the core group of characters! However, with this instalment, whilst the overall mystery was solid with plenty of red herrings, it didn't quite land for me as well as the previous book did which was one of the best in the series.

I found that the supporting cast of characters/suspects didn't quite gel for me in the way they usually do (though I have to say I did enjoy the very random addition of Kip to the cast) and the story felt like it was missing the verve and vigour that it normally has. This time round we have a lot more descriptions that felt like filler, especially at the start but once the investigation starts properly for our intrepid duo it picks up pace.

Irrespective of these niggles, overall I enjoyed the read as I always do and I eagerly await the next case to come Eleanor and Clifford's way and perhaps we'll get a little bit more Hugh next time!

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a digital review copy of "A Death in Venice" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.

A Death in Venice by Verity Bright is the irst cosy mystery I have read from this author and I understand many, many more have gone before! Absolutely this can be read as a standalone and I think the series will be an interesting one to dip into based on the writing of this book

I enjoyed the writing style as there was a good mystery and light humour throughout. The characters are affable and fun and the scene setting was vivid and immersive. A great read if you enjoy cozy mysteries

Thank you very much to Netgalley, Bookouture and the wonderful author(s) Verity Bright for this lovely ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

#ADeathinVenice #NetGalley

What a wonderful addition to the brilliant Lady Eleanor Swift series! I felt as though I was right there in Venice along with Ellie, Clifford and ‘the ladies’! The book creates a bewitching backdrop for a thrilling game of cat and mouse and an intriguing mystery. I also really enjoyed the colourful walk-on characters, and of course, the presence of Ellie’s pets, Gladstone and Tomkins. It was fascinating to find the historical notes at the end of the book too, giving extra context for anyone who might want it. I loved it all, from start to finish!

Containing delightful descriptions of food, fashion and the history and sights of Venice, this is a perfect summer read. This is the first book in the series that I have read and I would definitely read read more.Download the series to your kindle and you are set for a two week holiday reading marathon to keep you occupied whatever the weather.

I finished a Verity Bright book in a day? Then you must know it's captivating! This was such a fun twist on what I would call Romeo and Juliet but without the tragedy. I could not stop reading because of all the twists and turns included.

Did I know who the murderer was? Certainly not, because I made the rooky mistake of not really focusing 😂 but hey, these books are always so fun to read that I don't mind not knowing the plot.

10/10 for transporting me to a country I never visited, even if it does take place in the 1900.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for sending me an ARC for my honest review.

A Death in Venice is a fun and lighthearted journey through Venice marred by some murders the protagonist encounters along the way- and doesn't seem too bothered by aside from her determination to solve the crimes. This is the first Eleanor Swift book I've read- I was taken in by the title/description and didn't realize initially this is part of a series, however this book stands up well on its own and only alludes somewhat to prior books.

Overall the pacing was uneven. While there was enough action happening that it kept me engaged enough to keep reading and actually want to know what would happen, the main action doesn't occur until nearly 2/3 of the way into the book. The first 200 or so pages consist primarily of Eleanor "Lady Swift" getting into various confrontations and dead ends (literally and figuratively) with a cast of Italian characters who become hard to keep track of. These meetings and parties and run ins she has are not pointless- characters who are important to the ultimate resolution of the crimes are introduced in addition to their possible motives for Eleanor to consider. The introductions and various false starts go on for too long though and the plot begins to drag, particularly by what seems like the millionth time Eleanor reaches a wrong conclusion and announces, "Dash it!" As I read on I realized the plot is influenced by Romeo and Juliet- which is referenced briefly in the beginning by a character- however this book has enough differences that this is not a cozy mystery re-telling of that.

A recurring theme throughout Eleanor's adventures is her butler reminding her repeatedly of her social standing and then begrudgingly assisting her with her hijinks, frequently with her cat and dog in tow as her butler apparently carries them all over Venice. Also popping up at various points are her ladies in waiting who do nothing to advance the plot and appear to only be present for comic relief. There is also a fiancé who makes appearances via telephone and is not relevant at all to the storyline although presumably is present in the previous books.

The final twists were not what I would have guessed at all so I commend the author for that. However, the plot and ultimate reveal were so convoluted that it could have worked better with whole chapters removed. This book painted a vivid image of Venice however curiously- despite the character's commentary on how nicely Italian men dress- there was little description of what these men were actually wearing beyond "nice suits"- even a suit that was apparently brightly colored did not have a description of what that color was.

All of this said, the plot was engaging enough that I wanted to continue reading the book to find out what happened next. I do want to read the first book in this series so I can get a proper introduction to this character and see how the initial books compare to this one.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review. This review is my honest opinion.

I have mixed feelings about this one. Most of it, especially the first 100 pages, reads like a tourist guidebook to Venice. Finally, Ellie gets to (briefly) explore places tourists don't usually go (but apparently can if they book a private tour, something my family has never done). I really liked those parts and the scenes in the Jewish quarter with the introduction of a Jewish character. I was a little disappointed Venice of the 1920s is pretty much the same as Venice of the 1990s and not much different from today. Now you get around by water taxi and gondolas are for tourists. You can even find gondolas in my city in America. The politics of 1920s Venice centers around the age old debate of progress vs. tradition. I think Venice has done a pretty good job of balancing both but it would be nice to bring back wooden gondolas and have less motor boats. The descriptions will make you feel like you're there. If you haven't been, that's great to have but it slows down the pace of the novel and since I've been there once in person and many times through family photos (dating back to before I was even born), I skimmed for descriptions of how Venice may have appeared different in the 1920s. I did like the Carnival setting and wanted more of it. The silly Englishman's subplot was superfluous.

The mystery is either about politics or about family. I did not like the stereotype of the fiery, passionate, stubborn Italians feuding. I thought vengeance and blood feuds were more of a southern thing but I looked it up and there was a famous feud that inspired the events of this novel. I forgot to ask my parents about it. I must ask them to ask their friends in the Venezia region to tell me about it. The romance got lost in the family drama. The identity of the murderer was a surprise. I had forgotten that person and dismissed them. I was left confused by the thief's story. Is he the dark side of Clifford? The body count is too high for a fluffy cozy mystery like this series. One nitpick - the Italian word for pasta is macaroni. Pasta literally means paste and there are many different shapes and sauces and dishes. Each is regional and you'll only find the freshest ingredients used. Gelato flavors are seasonal as well and pistachio is a traditional flavor but not a spring flavor but I'm not sure about pistachio salted caramel! I'd be surprised if that flavor existed in the 1920s.

Speaking of Clifford, he is getting younger by the book! He's so agile and in fighting condition for an older man. I loved seeing him light up in the clock tower though and it was sweet of Ellie to arrange that tour for him because she knew he would love it. He's always looking out for her and doing things she wants to do as well as keeping her safe. I love how in tune they are with each other's thoughts. Ellie is a sweetheart of a woman but shockingly naïve at times even after all those dead bodies. She's growing though and learning, listening to Clifford and trusting her instincts. I worry about her relationship with Hugh though. It's just not going to work out if she goes gallivanting off to places hobnobbing with people who don't respect marriage vows and who enjoy a good party. Ellie isn't like that and Hugh knows it but it sounds like he's jealous and worried anyway. I hope he can take time off so they can go on vacation together (with Clifford and the ladies to chaperone). The ladies are a riot as always. It's funny to think of how shocking the site of underwear was given what underwear looked like! Shy Polly is coming out of her shell a bit and growing up. Lizzie is learning to relax and enjoy the more informal atmosphere of the Henley House family. While Gladstone doesn't have much to do, Tomkins gets his due, as Venetians love cats. There was a little too much Tomkins worship and not enough Gladstone for me.

The first victim is Signor Benetto Vedelini, an important Venetian businessman and on the city council. He was always demanding progress and ignoring how that progress would harm the artisans and gondoliers and even the locals who don't make money in the tourism industry. He sounds like he was arrogant. He argued with his gondolier, a stranger! The Vedelinis have been importance in Venice forever so I guess he came by his ego honestly. The Vedelinis were once engaged in a centuries-long feud with the Marcellos. The gondolier, Gaspo Secco, was related to the Marcellos. Gaspo is known for his hot temper but arguing with a customer is a new one. Gaspo is arrested without evidence but Angelo assumes the feud may be starting again! If Gaso murdered Benetto, the Vedelinis will seek vengeance and perhaps kill one of the Marcellos in return. Indeed, when a second body turns up in the canal, everyone assumes the crime was like for like. But what if it wasn't? Who else could have killed these men and why?

Ellie has a personal gondolier, Angelo. He speaks excellent English and is happy to show Ellie around but he isn't necessarily bound by loyalty to HER the way her staff is. He doesn't know her. He works for a living and she's just another wealthy client. He seems nice and trustworthy though. Another new friend I don't quite trust is Vincenzo Vedellini. He's a member of the Venetian Council like the man who was murdered but he doesn't seem to mind that a family member was killed. He barely knew the guy he says. He seems more interested in charming Ellie, possibly with seduction in mind. Ellie trusts him though and feels she can share what she's learned her investigation. I'm not sure her instincts are sound on this one. I don't trust him and I'm certain at the very least, Hugh would like to knock the lights out of this guy and at best, check up on Vincenzo to make sure he's a good person.

If the murder was premeditated and/or if the second murder was part of the blood feud, who ordered the killing? Ellie is invited to a party at the home of Contessa Contarinia. Eugenia is friendly enough but a little cold. She, and everyone else in the family, all seem cowed by the family patriarch, Nonno. Nonno is stubborn, opinionated and always thinks he's right. Yup. That sounds right for the Nonno I know (ha ha he agreed when I shared the story of this Nonno with him) but this Nonno does not have the generous and loving qualities of my family's Nonno! This one is more like my Italian-born great-uncle who was a boy when this story takes place and grew into a very cranky, mean old man. This Nonno doesn't hesitate to tell everyone what to do, even other people's servants. He doesn't like to be contradicted and Ellie, as a modern woman, nearly gives him apoplexy when she speaks up. She was only being herself and since she is not a member of the family, she can say what she wants to Nonno. Did Nonno order a vengeance killing and reignite the blood feud? I would expect he would go do the deed himself if he could. He believes business is the lifeblood of Venice but doesn't say if he's for progress or tradition? I think he must be for progress because it's made him rich.

The Contessa's daughter, Regina, is very cold and unromantic for a young woman. She wants to marry for money and not love, unlike her cousin Caterina. Caterina is the romantic in the family, a star-crossed lover. Caterina is Nonno's ward and she knows he won't approve of her marrying someone from another family- the family they've been at odds with forever! Her secret fiancé, Leonardo seems weak and silly. He's young and timid, afraid to approach Nonno and ask permission to marry Caterina.

Signor Friedman, art restorer, is enthusiastic about showing off his museum but not so enthusiastic about the glass figurines Ellie brings him to look at. She doesn't want to sell them, she wants to know if they are valuable enough to want to steal. She has to trust Sgr. F to tell the truth but he seems a little squirrely. Doctor Pinsky, a Jewish man, is a mysterious figure. At first he's friendly and engages in sharing his history with Ellie but then he seems a little shady in other scenes. He's seen lurking and consorting with a thief who steals Ellie's bag and ransacks her room. Is Doctor Pinsky in league with the thief of his own free will or is he being paid to assist? Maybe it's a misunderstanding and Ellie didn't see what she thought she saw? Alas, a third body turns up and Doctor Pinsky is seen nearby. Wrong place, wrong time or a cold-blooded murderer?

Casper Theodore Allegro Fitzmorton Kipling aka Kip is a young, nitwitted, Englishman attempting to help his father live out his dream of recreating Lord Byron's trip to Venice. That was 100 years earlier and Byron had a reputation. This is modern times we live in and Kip is just plain silly and stupid to do the things he's doing. He seems harmless enough. Ellie mothers him and helps him evade arrest, as if she doesn't have enough on her plate.

Three people are dead, two in the canal and one elsewhere. A mysterious thief keeps dogging Ellie and steals her bag. A talented but mute artist has given her a second drawing she didn't pay for and has disappeared. Could he be the key witness to the first murder? Is he trying to tell her something with his picture? Is he dead or disappeared? Now there's another mystery to solve!

This story didn't appeal to me as much as some of the others. Even though Clifford, the ladies and pets are all here, I miss the village. I much prefer the stories set in and around Henley Hall.

I usually find Lady Swift books interesting however, this one just didn't do it for me. It's a mystery that takes place in Venice, specifically beginning while Lady Eleanor Swift and her butler are out viewing the city on a gondola. They witness a murder, a person stabbed and thrown into the water. She later finds out those involved are part of long-time feuding families.The book sort of picked up at this point, however not the way I liked. Everything before that however, was mostly descriptions. There's quite a bit of unnecessary description and filler in this book, which I honestly couldn't appreciate. The book was good, but could have been better.

I received this book on behalf of NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for my honest review.

Wow what a great, little cozy murder mystery I was able to enjoy in one sitting. As Lady Eleanor Swift begins her holiday in Italy with her uptight but devoted butler, Clifford, her staff of ladies and her lovable yet mischievous dog and cat, I found myself enjoying this story from Verity Bright. While Eleanor is enjoying the beauty and the history of Venice, I found myself walking right alongside her as she explored St. Mark’s Square, The Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace, all places I visited a few years ago. The story begins a few days before Carnivale Season, as Lady Eleanor and Butler Clifford witness a murder one night while they are experiencing a gondola ride. The setting was rich with descriptions of Venice, and well-researched in the art of the gondola, which figured into the murder mystery beautifully.

As these two well-developed and comical characters become inadvertently drawn into a murder investigation the local policeman didn’t seem very interested in solving, Eleanor and Clifford find themselves being stalked by a mysterious man, who not only robs Eleanor one night but also ransacks her hotel room, drawing the pair deeper into a series of murders involving two feuding families and a dispute which goes back generations.

The story begins when a beautiful young girl drops a piece of Murano glass near Eleanor as she sight-sees, shops, and dines in St. Mark’s Square. The story is filled with shopping, engaging characters, two adorable pets, and a butler that every woman wishes she had looking out for her in a foreign city. As family obligations between two long-time warring families collide with romance, danger finds Eleanor every step of her journey through Venice. I found myself wondering how this woman could get into so much trouble in a matter of weeks. Since I had never read a book in the series before this one, I was enamored by the author’s characterizations, vivid setting details and comedic conversations. But a few things seemed odd to me. Eleanor is engaged to a cop back in England named Hugh who is mentioned almost as an afterthought leaving a reader begging for a better explanation of who the character is and why the author simply dusts the story with so few details about him. For an engaged woman who is traveling alone with only her household staff, Eleanor seems overly trusting of the locals she meets, as her intrigue about the murder escalates and pulls her deeper into a web of family feuding. Although I loved the shopping scenes and the parties, the beach day and the element of mystery surrounding the girl who dropped the glass bauble, I could never quite place the era of the story beyond a few references to her ankle-length dresses. I thoroughly enjoyed the book because of the endearing characters, the highlights of the City of Venice and the ‘who-dun-its’ that unfold throughout the tale, but something seemed forced and out of kilter as Lady Eleanor, an amateur sleuth worked to solve the murders. At times I became confused as to which character was which and I felt Hugh, the fiancé and the hilarious ladies on her staff got short changed and required greater development so I could understand why they were mentioned in the first place. The characters may very well be staples in other books in the series, but I felt as if they were dangled in front of me without much information beyond a casual mention here and there. But I can say I enjoyed the book and will read a few more in the Lady Swift series. Four stars for making me laugh out loud a few times and order a few more books in the series for a rainy weekend. I want to thank Net Galley and the Publisher, Bookouture for the advanced copy. The opinions expressed here are my own.

Lady Eleanor Swift is prepared to enjoy her Italian vacation. Eleanor is accompanied by her ever-faithful butler Clifford, and as always, her very dear bulldog Gladstone. While enjoying a gondola ride, when a passenger falls into a canal, there is no doubt that foul play is involved. The victim had a knife sticking out of his back. As always, our inquisitive and talented amateur sleuth Eleanor sets out to solve the crime.

With an existing feud that has gone on for centuries, and with an argument that was made public, it seems clear from the beginning who could have been responsible for the man's murder. However, things are not as clear cut as they seem, and it soon proves that there could have been more than one person that could indeed be the murderer. Things get even more murky when an elaborate plot to steal something rather precious is discovered.

If I had a real bucket list, traveling to Venice would be #1 on that list. Therefore, watching Eleanor and Clifford working hard on solving the murder. with the beautiful and charming setting in Venice, this 17th book in the Lady Eleanor Swift series was a true delight. Not only was the setting exquisite, but Eleanor and Clifford are fabulous characters. I love Eleanor's quiet intelligence and Clifford's proper manner, all while never missing a beat. I also enjoy when Eleanor takes many of her trips, not only is Clifford always there, but the rest of her staff get to go along and enjoy the trips as well. This series could continue indefinitely and I would devour every book.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

A delightfully complicated mystery set in Venice, coming to a climax at Carnival time. Bright does an excellent job of weaving Venetian sights and history with the story. It's one of her best.

Another great mystery in the beautiful setting of Venice. As usual our eclectic cast of character's appear to add fun to what otherwise is a serious murder investigation. Despite the books following a similar pattern each time it never gets old and is always fresh and interesting. The mystery is as satisfying as ever but I would like to see Hugh more involved in the goings on. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Lady Eleanor Swift is on a vacation in Venice with her whole household. When walking she bumps into a young women and helps woman pick up somethings that dropped out of her purse. However, after the woman has left Ellie sees a glass heart which she picks up, but can't find the girl. Later, when she and Clifford are riding in a gondola, a passing gondola has two men arguing, and then a speed boat comes by and bumps the other gondola. One man falls into the canal. He is pulled into their gondola dead with a knife in his back. Ellie soon finds out that the dead man is an important man in Venice and the head of one of the two most important Venice families. The two families have always been fighting for power in Venice.

Of course, Ellie gets involved trying to solve the murder. There appear to be folks who don't want her interventions, and she has her purse stollen and comes upon a dead man and others who appear to know what's going on won't talk with her. Ellie meets a Contessa from one of the important families and attends a big party at her home and then spends a day with the Contessa and her children.

Gradually, Ellie learns a little more about what is going on; it seems that there are two glass statues which are linked together by a heart which are supposed to be the symbol of friendship between the two families. Each family is supposed to pass the statues to the other at a special meeting once a year. But now, no one seems to know where the statues are. Things get pretty exciting as the deadline for the families to meet comes closer, and Ellie still hasn't found the statues.

I thank Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC so I could read the book before publication.