Swedish literature has been in the global spotlight since the blockbuster success of Stieg Larsson’s book, ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,’ in 2005. Fans of spine-chilling thrillers featuring serial killers, often referred to as ‘Nordic Noir,’ can dive into this collection of compelling Swedish works. This list also caters to those who simply appreciate stories set in the distinct Scandinavian atmosphere. A variety of these exciting works by Swedish authors can be found at Belleville Public Library.
One such extraordinary novel is ‘Blaze me a sun: A Novel About a Crime,’ penned by acclaimed author Christoffer Carlsson in 2023. This international bestseller has received prominent recognition, including being listed among the Best Crime Novels of the Year by the New York Times and the Best Book of the Year by Kirkus Reviews. The narrative peers into the psyche of a serial killer, whose first victim falls on the same day as the assassination of the Swedish Prime Minister.
The killer’s audacious calls to the police announcing his reiteration shock everyone, and so the atrocities continue. Despite the tireless efforts of the authorities, the identity of the murderer remains elusive. Not only that, but they grapple with the unsettling possibility of a connection between these crimes and the assassination plot. The novel engrossingly charts the pursuit of this elusive killer by the law enforcement agencies.
Dedicated Detective Sven Jorgensson becomes consumed by the task of cracking this case. The assignment, however, turns out to have dire implications for his personal life. After his relentless and exhausting hunt, Jorgensson ultimately bids farewell to his law enforcement career. Years later, when his son steps into the shoes of a police officer, an opening resurfaces in the case, reigniting Jorgensson’s erstwhile determination.
Another exciting read is the critically acclaimed novel ‘Stolen’ by Ann-Helen Laestadius, adapted into a Netflix movie. This novel amalgamates the richness of a coming-of-age tale with the grandiosity of a multi-generational family epic. The story revolves around a young Sámi girl who dauntlessly fights to preserve her family’s reindeer herd and their traditional way of living.
Divided into three parts, ‘Stolen’ is an emotive, compelling, and spellbinding novel. It tells the profound tale of a valiant young woman endeavoring to safeguard her indigenous heritage. The protagonist unabashedly challenges the harsh cruelties of the present world in a fight for justice and preservation of her culture’s future.
‘The Survivors’ by Alex Schulman, an international best-selling author and journalist, is another enthralling title. Schulman’s work is renowned beyond the borders of Sweden, being published in over 30 nations. The story unveils a poignant family drama following the demise of the brothers’ mother. The siblings find themselves back at their old lakeside cottage, a place that hosted a tragic accident that forever changed their lives.
The eldest sibling, Nils, always sought distance from his stifling home, while Pierre, the youngest, often found himself the target of mockery, responding with impulsivity. Benjamin, the middle child, slides into an unsettling detachment from reality, as he finds himself trapped in time while the world moves ahead. This captivating novel, delivered in a tense narrative, probes into the spine-chilling events of a fateful summer that shattered their lives.
A chronicle of Swedish novels would be incomplete without mentioning the internationally famed book, ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ by Stieg Larsson. If you’ve missed this thrilling ride, it’s highly recommended for its intriguing mystery, non-stop action, and the portrayal of one of the most memorable female characters in literature, Lisbeth Salander.
Following your engagement with the original trilogy by Larsson, the saga continues with ‘The Girl in the Spider’s Web’ (2015) by David Lagercrantz, which is available in various formats. After Larsson’s passing, Lagercrantz carried the torch forward, maintaining the energy of the original works seamlessly.
With Lagercrantz carrying the mantle, the series extended to include fifth (‘The Girl Who Takes an Eye for an Eye’) and sixth (‘The Girl Who Lived Twice’) instalments. You would never realize the transition between authors as the narrative retains its gripping pace and suspense-filled journey, thereby making the series a must-read for fans of the originals.
Building on this saga, the next installment is ‘The Girl in the Eagle’s Talons,’ penned by Karin Smirnoff in 2023. Smirnoff continues the legacy, weaving together more intrigue and excitement around the iconic characters Lisbeth Salander and journalist Mikael Blomkvist. This addition to the series is available in various formats, making it an accessible read for everyone.
Finally, for those who enjoy tales that send a shiver down your spine, John Ajvide Lindqvist, recognized for his horror novels and famously known for ‘Let the Right One In,’ is another author of note. ‘Harbor’ (2011) is a rich narrative infused with frightful scenarios, well-crafted characters, and surprising plot twists.
The book opens with a child’s disappearance in a remote community, gradually spiralling into an expanding narrative that takes unforeseen turns. This highly recommended novel takes the reader on a journey through a chilling landscape filled with disturbing events.
If you have a penchant for eerie and absorbing narratives, try ‘Harbor,’ which is available in print and as an audiobook on Libby. This lineup of Swedish literature offers an assorted collection of thrillers, horror stories, and emotional narratives that speak volumes about the rich literary tradition of Sweden.
Each of these works offers a unique tapestry of emotions, suspense, and cultural insights, making a worthwhile read for every book lover. Delve into these captivating stories that breathe life into far-off Swedish locales and whirlwind plots that keep readers on the edge of their seats.