Reviews

• “An unusually realistic and melancholic crime novel whose grounded storytelling sets it apart from today’s action-heavy crime fiction.”

• “Outstanding. /…/ A realistic and authentic depiction of a murder investigation.”

• “It’s pitch-dark, yet masterfully told. Johannes Selåker has found his own distinctive voice, Stekenjokk is one of the finest Swedish crime novels of the year so far. /…/ With Stekenjokk, Johannes Selåker places himself firmly in the classic Sjöwall–Wahlöö tradition, while choosing a setting in a remote corner of Sweden where laws and regulations are not always upheld, not even by those charged with enforcing them, and where the local “strongman” is virtually untouchable. /…/ The choice to center the series around events along the Wilderness Road gives it a fresh and compelling feel. ”

• “A classic crime series, in the same vein as the Kurt Wallander books.”

• “This is truly outstanding, without a doubt one of the best Swedish crime novels of the year. /…/ A powerful, masterful narrative that completely captivates us as readers.”

• “The writing is brisk and vivid, drawing the reader effortlessly into this complex story, full of twists and memorable supporting characters. ”

• “Elegant suspense.”

• “Frank has a warmth that I feel many others lack. I just like him, plain and simple. /…/ He’s not like everyone else, he really isn’t.”

• “It’s a powerful opening. In just a few pages, Selåker paints a portrait of a deeply flawed man on the verge of breaking point, while also capturing loneliness so vividly that the silence inside the house seems to scream from the pages. /…/ I’m looking forward to returning to the Wilderness Road and its surroundings, which Selåker portrays with a sharp eye in this dark and compelling first installment.”