Death in a Strange Country by Donna Leon

Aggressively investigating an American's murder in tranquil Venice despite his superior's order to keep things clean and quiet, Commissario Guido Brunetti finds himself knee-deep in a toxic waste cover-up with political ties

3.5 stars but I definitely am continuing with this series. Also, you do not need to read the first book (can be read as a standalone).

The setting is beautifully evoked, the main characters are intriguing if a little stereotyped at times, and the food - makes me very hungry. Many of the main characters are good folk and it is enjoyable to spend time with them. The mystery itself, to these 2021 eyes/ears not so great complicated or shocking (maybe it was at the time of publishing) and I don't care - end the end I wasn't there for the mystery.

Had read book #1 some time ago. Enjoyed this quite a bit. Was a little disappointed in how quickly and cleanly the story ended, but will certainly read more about the commissario.