Scandinavian Mysteries discussion

Johan Theorin has that special touch of the Scandinavian mystery writer. I am enthralled with this book. It is well written with a captivating plot tying two timelines together. The 'hero' is a pensioner living in an old folks home. I can't put this book down.

The author has a web site where he says "I write dark mystery novels with some supernatural overtones, which mainly take place on the Swedish island of Öland. This is the place where I spent a large part of my childhood, and still visit as often as possible. "

(http://www.johantheorin.co.uk/index.asp)

This is another author where I'll read everything he writes.

I too am totally captivated by this book. The story is so simple yet so compelling. The method that Johan Theorin intertwined two eras together perfectly reminded me of Peter Robinson's "Piece of My Heart". Moreover, some of scenes in the story also reminded me of Larsson's "Dragon Tattoo Girl." Yet, for Johan, he does not need a girl with "superpowers," a handicapped old man and a bereaved mother could just as be relentless and perceptive.

By the way, don't you think that Scandinavian writers often have a sad undertone in their books? For example, Jo Nesbo, Roslund, Lackberg, Mankell, Nesser, Fossum, Indridason...

There is a sad under tone isn't there. The characters often spend time alone in nature in weather that is often in transition (fall, impending snowstorm, etc.) and the weather serves to further the characters sense of isolation. (I live in a part of Canada where I can appreciate this!!!)

One of things that I like the most about this book is the role of an old man with rheumantism and a bereaved mother. You read this and can believe that it could happen.

Not to mention the ending caught me totally offf guard, which is not often. Unlike some authors who surprised you with a murderer that's more for the twist and turn of the story. Johan weaved in the plot so intricately and methodically that a reader couldn't detect until the very end. Yet it made perfect sense. I also appreciated the many ironies.