There's nothing I love more than a great Nordic Noir novel, and todayβs blog post is dedicated to celebrating the best of the Scandinavian crime novels 2019 had to offer. 2019 saw the return of some of my personal favorite authors (new NesbΓΈ book, hereβs looking at you!) and introduced me to a number of new-to-me authors as well. As always with these sorts of lists, narrowing down my picks proved a very tricky task, but Iβm absolutely confident that the titles listed here will deliver all the atmosphere, rich character development, and gritty mystery that any Nordic Noir reader could hope for. Whether youβre a longtime fan of this category of crime fiction or are new to the genre entirely, thereβs a book for you on this list.
Read MoreCBTB's Best Nordic Noir of 2019
Book Review: HUNTING GAME by Helene Tursten
Helene Tursten, best known for her Irene Huss crime fiction series, returns this week with HUNTING GAMEβan atmospheric detective novel that launches her brand-new series featuring Detective Inspector Embla NystrΓΆm. And what a fantastic series launch it is. HUNTING GAME is in many ways a classic detective novel; its moody atmosphere, measured pacing, and down-to-earth plotting will make it a perfect fit for readers of traditional procedurals. However, thanks to its stellar protagonist, HUNTING GAME feels decidedly modern as well. At the heart of this superb mystery is Embla NystrΓΆm, a young woman working for the mobile unit of the police department in Gothenburg, Sweden. Fiercely independent and as physically tough as she is mentally strong, Embla is an inspiring characterβbut, even better, sheβs relatable, too. Sheβs the kind of down-to-earth, realistic protagonist that readers will wish they could get to know in real life. In a genre where βdamaged detectivesβ with all manner of bad habits and outlandish behavior can seem a dime a dozen, Emblaβs realism and relatability set her apart. From its intriguing cast of characters to its immersive atmosphere and delightfully classic crime-inspired plotting, HUNTING GAME is an excellent read from first to last, and the start of a series I will look forward to following.
Read MoreYour Early 2019 Nordic Noir Reading List
Nothing beats a great Scandinavian crime novel in the chilly winter months, and this winter is brimming with fantastic Nordic Noir for you to devour. Whether youβre a fan of paperbacks or hardcovers, series installments or standalones, thereβs a Nordic crime novel for you releasing this winterβand youβll find my personal picks for highly-anticipated early 2019 releases right here! In this post, Iβm rounding up the most exciting Scandinavian crime fiction releasing from January 2019 through March 2019. Some of these titles are paperback releases of hardcovers Iβve already read (and loved!), some are brand-new hardcovers that I havenβt even read yetβbut theyβre all highly-anticipated releases that Iβm so excited to share with you! If youβre looking for a new Nordic Noir release (or two!) to devour this winter, look no further: your early 2019 Nordic Noir reading list is right here.
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