Today I have a mini review to share as part of the blog tour for Kjell Ola Dahl’s The Ice Swimmer.
** My thanks to Karen at Orenda Books for my copy of this & Anne Cater at Random Things Tours for inviting me to take part in the blog tour **
Description:
When a dead man is lifted from the freezing waters of Oslo Harbour just before Christmas, Detective Lena Stigersand’s stressful life suddenly becomes even more complicated. Not only is she dealing with a cancer scare, a stalker and an untrustworthy boyfriend, but it seems both a politician and Norway’s security services might be involved in the murder.
With her trusted colleagues, Gunnarstranda and Frølich, at her side, Lena digs deep into the case and finds that it not only goes to the heart of the Norwegian establishment, but it might be rather to close to her personal life for comfort. Dark, complex and nail-bitingly tense, The Ice Swimmer is the latest and most unforgettable instalment in the critically acclaimed Oslo Detective series, by the godfather of Nordic Noir.
My Thoughts & Review:
I do love dipping my toe into Nordic Noir, and what better author to act as lifeguard than the awesome Kjell Ola Dahl. For those unfamiliar with this author, I would urge you to check out his books, they are utterly brilliant and authentic.
The Ice Swimmer is a well plotted police procedural that keeps readers guessing throughout. There’s a darkness that this book exudes, it’s so cleverly twisted and and full of suspense. Whilst the pacing may not be breakneck speed, it works perfectly with the plot, complimenting it. The investigation is thrilling and complex, but the glimpses into the lives of the team are what really makes this a such an enthralling read. There’s something so realistic about the characters, but more so when you see the looks into their personal lives, this authenticity makes them come alive, even if their names are almost impossible to get your tongue around.
The atmospheric setting is beautifully written, Oslo is so crisp and vivid.
The translation by Don Bartlett is as ever seamless, none of the subtle nuances are lost when the work was translated into English.
You can buy a copy of The Ice Swimmer via: