Blown Away

The first thing that struck me was the performance of the narrator Mars Lindh. Her accent and cadence was beautiful, even lyrical. The second thing that struck me was the fact that the book was written in the first person. That and the short, incredibly detailed sentences. My whole attention was captured immediately and then as the story began to unfold I had to keep in listening because I simply had to know what happened next. Excellent all round. I hope to see more from both the author and narrator.

9 people found this helpful

extremely addictive.

Written in a first person narrative in real time as events occur. This means that you only learn of events when the main character does. I don't know if it's because it is set in Sweden that it reminds me of dragon tattoo. Anyhow to the story there is no cut and thrust, or massive twist / blind side events. The whole thing relies on the shear quality of the writing and the prose. This it does with exceptional consistency. I devoured this book with whisper sync so had the pleasure of both reading and listening, I have to say that in both formats this is an addictive delight. The way the words just flow is superb. The characters are really well developed drawing you in. The book is narrated by a Swedish actress in English this really adds to the effect of being 1st person written as if a diary. Just an fantastic piece of work and a cannot wait for the next book.

7 people found this helpful

Good, but dragged out

It takes a little while to get into the story, but the scenery and descriptions are beautiful. I feel that could’ve been a few hours shorter, but still I found a compulsive listen.

2 people found this helpful

Great characters and atmosphere

Ok so I loved all the remote sinister forest stuff and the eccentric, creepy characters that live in it. For me it has distant echoes of Hansel and Gretel.

The minor beef I have is with the main character. I am British and over here journalists are not really noble, truth seekers who want to what is right for society. They are motivated by financial reward and the feeling of being at the centre of what is happening. They are on a par with Estate Agents or used car sales staff. Consequently I found it hard to believe in this character or the other characters willingness to trust and help her by talking with her. The other problem I have with her is she doesn't behave in a particular sensible/intelligent fashion when confronted with dangerous situations, particularly towards the end. This is not consistent with a top rated journalist. If she carries on in this vein, the laws of probability suggest she will die young. The other characters are all fascinating and very well formed. They more than make up for my niggles with the main character. If you enjoy character driven novels, I would suggest this is worth a try.

1 person found this helpful

Beautifully read

Very atmospheric thriller, exquisitely read with a cadence and lyricism that adds to the interesting story. You can almost smell the forest!

1 person found this helpful

Very good indeed

Well written and beautifully performed. I think most people will guess “whodunnit” and in that respect I think the ending could have been more exciting had the narrative broken from the first person to confirm the murderer’s identity to the reader and had us rooting for the hero as the book reaches its climax. But this is a minor niggle (and personal opinion) about a book that was a brilliant travelling companion on a long journey.

1 person found this helpful

Narrator very poor

The narration was almost a monotone. Due to this I just couldn't listen to the story for more than a few minuy.

6 people found this helpful

Gripping

An atmospheric Nordic thriller beautifully read and given life by the narrator.....I felt as if I was ‘living’ the novel.

Intriguing Who Done It

This held my attention with a good story and narration,and insight into small town life

well worth it

narrator is amazing, beautiful voice and I hope to hear more from her. great story.