The locals in the southern Italian town where he lives call him Signor Farfalla–Mr. Butterfly: for he is a discreet gentleman who paints rare butterflies. His life is inconspicuous–mornings spent brushing at a canvas, afternoons idling in the cafes, and evening talks with his friend the town priest over a glass of brandy.

Yet there are other sides to this gentleman’s life: Clara: the young student who moonlights in the town bordello. And another woman who arrives with $100,000 and a commission, but not for a painting of butterflies.

With this assignment returns the dark fear that has dogged Signor Farfalla’s mysterious life. Almost instantly, he senses a deadly circle closing in on him, one which he may or may not elude. Part thriller, part character study, part drama of deceit and self-betrayal, “The American” (“A Very Private Gentleman)” shows Martin Booth at the very height of his powers.

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Format: Paperback
Published: in USA in 2010
Publisher: St Martins Press
Pages: 274
Language: English
ISBN 13: 9780312430016
ISBN 10: 0312430019
Edition: 2 MTI