Ratings23
Average rating3.7
I enjoyed this book very much, but I can't decide if I liked the way all the strings tied together so neatly or not.
A nice, slightly predictable crime novel, which is not the type of book I usually read, but I enjoyed it. The Norwegian setting gives it a nice twist and the ending left me hoping there's another book in this series.
Nesbo back in top form! Enjoyed the plot and the building suspense. A fan of Nesbo i was disappointed with last book of his and super happy with this one.
I imagine with the growing popularity of Norwegian crime novelist Jo Nesbo, Hollywood came looking for a property they could do a film adaptation for that didn't carry the weight of a 10 book series ala Harry Hole.
Nesbo is mining familiar territory featuring a damaged cop with a dark past nearing retirement, the eager protege, rampant corruption within the force and a unique and colourful cast of underworld characters. Take for example Sonny Lofthus who has been in prison for over a decade, hooked on heroin and absolving the sins of his fellow inmates after his hero father's apparent suicide to avoid disgrace. When he finds out his father was set up and killed, Sonny kicks his habit (easy) and goes on a remarkably clear-headed but blood spattered revenge spree. Suspension of disbelief required - this feels more like a movie plot for the latest Bruckheimer movie than a literary thriller. It's made for the big screen but it's still an enjoyable page turner.
Listened to this one in the car. It drags at the beginning...until Sonny perks up...then it's very enjoyable. Things get a bit muddy and bloated towards the last quarter...there were several times I thought the story was going to end, but the more bits are tacked on. Not as much fun as the Dept Q books, or Dragon Tattoo, but enjoyable.