PositiveCrime Fiction Lover... it becomes a bit challenging for the reader to follow suit, and at times the plot weave feels a bit overcomplicated ... With an expositional style that is all but invisible, Staalesen masterfully compels us from the first pages. We follow Veum and his relentless yet thankless endeavours to whatever dark corner they may lead, buoyed by the sardonic PI’s dry humour and wry characterisations of all manner of humanity he encounters. Told in first person, we see the world through Veum’s eyes, but you’ll have to keep guessing who the culprit is. The detective keeps his cards close to his chest for purposes of suspense, but he is generous with his observations of the town folk, their dialects and the transformation of Norway’s historical urban landscape ... f you’re a fan of Varg Veum, this is not to be missed, and if you’re new to the series, this is one of the best ones. You’re encouraged to jump right in, even if the Norwegian names can be a bit confusing to follow.
Jo Nesbø, Trans. by Neil Smith
MixedCrime Fiction LoverThe Thirst has all the trademarks of classic Nesbo. It is expertly plotted with vividly drawn characters, frenetic police chases and philosophising villains, not to mention the usual bonus add-ons that are part and parcel of Nesbo’s thrillers. Esoteric science, ancient murder lore and indie music play their parts ... But after 11 books Nesbo’s winning formula begins to feel a bit boilerplate, especially the obligatory scenario where storytelling villain fills in the helpless hero during his own drawn-out sacrifice as police verge on the wrong location. Nevertheless, Nesbo entertains in a unique way that makes you feel that you’ve been enriched while trying to solve the case ... This is not the best Harry Hole novel, and the motivations of the villain are far less convincing than those of the police characters, such as Katrine Bratt, who are better realised.
