The Mermaid

by Anki Edvinsson, Paul Norlén (Translator)

Could the prime suspect in a murder be a victim too?

The body of a homeless woman is found in the river, viciously beaten and with all her teeth removed. A young immigrant, the prime suspect in a recent spate of robberies in Umeå, was seen running in the vicinity around the time the body was dumped. Trouble is, he hasn’t been seen since. When he does appear, in the town square, he’s wearing an explosive vest and holding a detonator.

Called in to investigate, Detectives Charlotte von Klint and Per Berg have a complex web of leads to contend with. But Per is preoccupied with a serious illness within the family, while Charlotte is struggling to make her peace with an old flame being assigned to their unit while she navigates the early days of a new relationship. Despite the upheaval in their private lives, the duo must use all their focus to discover whether the two incidents are connected—and, if so, how.

Was the bomber responsible for the woman in the river? Or is it possible he’s another victim in the case? With time running out, the pressure is on for Charlotte and Per to catch the killer and restore peace in a city fast spiralling out of control.

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Fiction, Noir, Thriller, Audiobook, Mystery Thriller

425 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 20, 2024

Reviews

[Ceecee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Detectives Charlotte von Klint and Per Berg #2

A peaceful day I. Rådhus Square in Umeå is shattered by the appearance of a young man wearing a suicide vest. All hell breaks loose.
Backtrack to eight days earlier and a spate of increasingly violent robberies preoccupies the Major Crimes Team of Charlotte and Per. Later their workload increases when a body is discovered under a bridge which resembles a mermaid. What is going on in Norrland?

This has a complex fast paced plot that keeps my interest. Much of this centres around suspicion of ‘outsiders’ and this aspect is done well. There are plenty of twists and a cliffhanger ending so I guess I’ll be reading number 3! The characters are growing up n me and they’re intriguing. There’s a new character Alex who joins the team from Gothenburg who adds a good dimension.

[Robert Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent read . An involved plot which holds your interest and a good cast of characters .
I would have given five stars but the ending is a cliffhanger and another book will follow in due course . I prefer books with a begining and an end .

[Emily Hunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super engaging story and awesome plot twist near the end, but the cliffhanger at the end??? Way too far. Unacceptable way to end a book. Jag gillar inte!

Hej Ellen! Hur mar du? Jag läste bocken och tänkte till du. Hon (Anki) är svenska! Hade du läste någonting till Anki Edvinsson? (Sorry for the bad Swedish 🫠)

[Esther Turnbull · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good read

[Ken Fredette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to go over what I read so far but I'm pretty sure I haven't read Snow Angel and The Mermaid is the book we are discussing. In reading this story I'm interested in how Anki keeps from revealing her characters known defects so soon. It doesn't show up in anyone until she lets it out of the bag. You keep wondering about Roger Ren, who's the father that follow the immigrants around, or even Helen who was follow by her husband Eric. But it falls apart when Klara found something in Eriks car. We need the police now and Charlotte & Ola are in an arrangement. So is her boss, Per married to Mia who had cancer. They're taking over for their boss, Kennet, who having surgery and will be out for 6 months. Klara is with Ibrahim, who is one of immigrants and he is learning Swedish in school. There several other characters but these are the most important. Anki takes us into each characters life except our killers. But that makes it interesting. When she does take us into his life we can see how he ended up like he did. Read it, because you will be miffed when you find out. Anki has a way with words.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m giving it 5 stars for the ending itself. Wow!

[Jill Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Mermaid

Omg what an ending to leave the book on. I really enjoyed this second book. The characters are gelling together nicely and the storyline is good and pacey. I am looking forward to book three as I'm sure there will be plenty going on between Charlotte, Ola, and Alex.

[Alli Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant, wild ride!

Perplexing mystery with great supporting characters and a further dive into Charlotte and Per's personal lives. The translation is flawless. Can't wait for the next book.

[janice robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The mermaid

What a brilliant read this was sometimes it flits back and forwards but that doesn't stop you from enjoying this book hope there is more to follow

[Margery Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional characters, exciting plot

Even better than the first book in this series. Couldn’t stop reading it!!! Looking forward to next addition to the series.

[Mugs & Manuscripts · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Mermaid by Anki Edvinsson is a standout Nordic Noir thriller and the 2nd installment in the Detectives von Klint and Berg series. The novel's gripping prologue set the tone for the entire book and the story delivers on its promise of a thrilling ride! Swedish author Edvinsson's storytelling prowess shines through, creating an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue that kept me turning the pages until the shocking and explosive conclusion.

When a series of thefts occur, some residents swiftly accuse a group of Middle Eastern refugees living in the town. Eight days later, one of the group is seen in the town square wearing a bomb vest and holding a detonator, seemingly confirming the city's suspicions that there is a 'terrorist' among them. Edvinsson skillfully weaves in the backstory of not only these refugees but the lives of those they meet, their families, acquaintances, and the police investigators themselves.

Edvinsson paints a vivid portrayal of life in Umeå, highlighting a pervasive sense of misunderstanding from both perspectives. The city's residents are wary of newcomers from a culture they struggle to comprehend, while immigrants are deeply affected by the traumas they have endured and the hostility they encounter. Edvinsson avoids simplifying the situation by portraying one side as right and the other as wrong; neither is entirely blameless. One gripping aspect of the narrative arises from the interactions and suspicions between these groups, set against the backdrop of a serial killing spree.

Overall, The Mermaid is a fast-paced and beautifully constructed Nordic Noir novel. Edvinsson adeptly plays with the reader's expectations, introducing red herrings and numerous twists that feel organic. The eventual unmasking of the culprit is expertly executed, leading to a gripping finale as the race to prevent further tragedy unfolds. Upon beginning the novel, I was unaware that it was the second book in a series. I eagerly anticipate the third installment, though it may be some time as this one was recently translated into English.

[Judefire33 · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Review –

After reading The Snow Angel a couple of weeks ago, I had to read The Mermaid as soon as possible, and I’m so pleased I did!

We meet Detectives Charlotte von Klint and Per Berg again in Umea, Sweden, with a frankly shocking opening chapter! This then sets the scene for a gritty, complicated, and brilliant novel! I was engrossed and gripped from the first pages. Anki Edvinsson is an exceptional talent! If you like in-your-face Police Procedurals that are gritty, relevant, and realistic, then you MUST read this series!

The plot was blooming clever and had many twists and turns, and I have to say that I was SHOCKED at the outcome. I did not guess who the perpetrator was, as Anki had twisted the writing so well and totally misled the reader! And as for the last page!!! How audacious, leaving us hanging like that! I cant give anything away but you are going to want to read book 3 IMMEDIATELY!

I love that I’ve found a new author that I love in 2025. Some readers don’t like translated fiction as they feel things get lost in translation—there’s no chance of that here. Paul Norlen has expertly translated The Mermaid. You wouldn’t think it was written in Swedish; there’s nothing lost!

This is a gritty, gripping page-turner and an unputdownable read. It features two of the most loveable and realistic police detectives, Charlotte von Klint and Per Berg. I love that their back stories intertwine with the main plot. If you like the Wisting series by Jorn Lier Horst, then you will love The Mermaid.

Another huge 5-star read, and one that’s left me asking when book 3 will be released in English as I need to read it now! Brilliant novel Anki!

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read the first book in this series and I was hooked. The von Klint and Berg mysteries are complex and unpredictable. In the case of both books, I did not realize the culprits until they were revealed by the author. Charlotte and Per work so well as a team, although in this one a new character (a potential love interest) is introduced who could muddy up the workings of the team. The suspects in this book are young Middle Eastern immigrants who are suspected of being a thieving gang until one of them becomes what appears to be a suicide bomber. The plot thickens when some of the young people go missing. My only criticism of this book is its cliff-hanging ending (I hate cliff-hangers), especially when I don't know when the next book in the series will be available. SOON I hope.

[Barcie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second in a series, this one is better than the first installment. Similar in some ways, for example the focus on teen characters who are often exhibiting risky behavior. The characters are engaging and we get a deeper look into their pasts and private lives. I can't decide if this series is setting up some kind of slow burn romantic entanglement between the two main characters, detectives von Kling and Berg, but if so, it's surely going to be many books from where they are now. A warning, though, that "The Mermaid" ends on a cliffhanger, and I don't know when the third book in this series is scheduled to be published but it better be soon!

[Bud Mallar · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed it, but won't put it at the top of my list.

Just seemed like a couple two many convulotions in the characters and the story which didn't seem right to be, but it could just be me.

A whodunit, sadly a cliffhanger and #3 isn't available in English at this point, so that's disappointing.

I'll probably pick it up when and if it becomes available.

[alex presnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book. Lots of false leads and twists but well written. The central characters all have issues running along side the main plot and these are woven into the story with great skill. It’s dark in parts, raises political issues and delves into the underbelly of Swedish society.

[Mrs Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was good, and would have had 5 stars if the ending had not been so abrupt and leading on to the next book.

[Tori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book #2 in the series; read if you like mysteries or crime.

[Donna Hains · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put this down. Looking forward the obvious next in the series!!

[Kat Walter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Complex, strong characters. Good translation. Hope next is translated soon.

[carol P hayden · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love a cliffhanger, this is for you

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

2nd book in a great series!

Couldn't read this book fast enough to find out who was involved in the murders. Excellent reading. Can't wait for the next book in the series.

[Sara ✨ Next Book Review Blog ✨ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I tried reading and listening to this audio for several, yes, SEVERAL months. I never finished it.

[Jo Swords · Rating 5 out of 5]

Come on, we need book 3. What a cliffhanger!

[Betty · Rating 2 out of 5]

I just want to put it aside for awhile

[Suzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Manhunt

Someone is torturing and killing homeless people and immigrants. Is it a man or a woman --- the hunt is on! This is a good follow-up to the first novel in this series. I love the setting, the characters, and the well woven plot.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series! I stumbled across it searching Scandinavian mysteries on Kindle Unlimited. I can’t wait for the 3rd book to be translated and recorded on audiobook!

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read the first two books and now want Paul Norlèn to translate the 3rd! Paul, you are eight months behind schedule!

[Hayley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Think perhaps alot was lost in translation.

[Vincent · Rating 5 out of 5]

„Die tote Wassernixe“ ist der zweite Teil der „von Klint und Berg“-Serie von Anki Edvinsson und das erste Buch der schwedischen Autorin, das ich gelesen habe. Und, was soll ich sagen: es hat mich begeistert. Schande über mich, dass ich den ersten Teil „Der tote Schnee-Engel“ noch nicht kenne. Die Geschichte ist unglaublich spannend erzählt, vielseitig und vielschichtig konstruiert und wartet am Schluss mit einem überraschenden Paukenschlag auf. Was will man von einem Krimi mehr?
Aber von vorn.
Im nordschwedischen Umeå kommt es innerhalb von vier Wochen zu vier Raubüberfällen. Eine Jugendbande treibt ihr Unwesen, mutmaßlich handelt es sich dabei um drei Jugendliche mit Migrationshintergrund. Die Bevölkerung fordert Ermittlungsergebnisse, vor allem der Vater eines der Opfer schwört Rache. Während die Polizei mit Hochdruck arbeitet, passiert ein grausamer Mord, der die ganze Aufmerksamkeit von Charlotte von Klint und Per Berg fordert. Eine Frau in den Fünfzigern wird ermordet unter am Kai unter der Tegsbrücke gefunden. Die Leiche weist Verletzungen auf, die möglicherweise durch Folter entstanden sind, dazu wurden der Frau alle Zähne gezogen. Kurz darauf erschüttert ein Selbstmordattentat die Stadt. Ausgerechnet einer der Jugendlichen, die bezüglich der Raubüberfälle im Fokus der Ermittler stehen, sprengt sich auf dem Rathausplatz in die Luft. Aber irgendetwas kommt Charlotte von Klint an der ganzen Sache seltsam vor. War es überhaupt ein Selbstmord? Während die Polizei noch in aller möglichen Richtungen ermittelt, überschlagen sich die Ereignisse und die Zeit wird knapp.
„Die tote Wassernixe“ bietet für mich alles, was ich von einem Krimi erwarte. Einen sich konstant aufbauenden Spannungsbogen, eine gut konstruierte, vielseitige und vielschichtige Geschichte und ein bisschen Privatleben der Ermittler. Deshalb kann das Buch bei mir auf ganzer Linie punkten. Sprachlich fand ich es sehr ansprechend, auch die Übersetzung ist handwerklich gut gelungen. Die Charaktere, egal, ob Protagonisten oder „Nebenrollen“ sind mit Ecken und Kanten, Stärken und Schwächen sehr detailreich ausgearbeitet und die Exkurse in ihr Privatleben boten ein gutes Gegengewicht zu den Ermittlungen in den grausigen Fällen. Der Kampf von Pers Frau Mia gegen Krebs und Charlottes noch frisches Liebesglück mit ihrem Kollegen Ola machen die Ermittler nahbar und sympathisch. Obwohl ich den ersten Teil der Reihe noch nicht kenne, konnte ich der Handlung problemlos folgen, etwaige Lücken füllt die Autorin durchweg auf, sodass man auch ohne Vorkenntnisse Spaß an dem Buch haben kann. Die Geschichte erstreckt sich über einen Zeitraum von rund zwei Wochen und wird aus verschiedenen Perspektiven erzählt, was dem Spannungsbogen sehr zuträglich ist. Konzeptionell ist der Prolog hervorragend gewählt. Ein Teil der Geschichte spielt in den acht Tagen davor, der Rest etwa in der Woche danach.
Mit ihrem Krimi greift Anki Edvinsson gleich mehrere hochaktuelle und brisante Themen auf, vor allem natürlich (illegale) Migration und Ausländerfeindlichkeit. Sie beschreibt in diesem Zusammenhang (rassistisch geprägte) Vorurteile, aber auch die rosarote Brille Verliebter. Insgesamt war das Buch für mich ein absoluter Pageturner, der Schluss ist stimmig und hat mich tatsächlich vollkommen überrascht. Einzig die Assoziation der ersten Toten mit einer Wassernixe aufgrund des Designs ihrer Hose und der Auffindesituation der Leiche (Design der Hose, die auf der Wasseroberfläche treibenden Haare), fand ich sehr konstruiert. Aber damit passt der Titel zumindest im Deutschen zum Vorgänger-Band „Der tote Schnee-Engel“ und zeigt deutlich, dass es sich hier um eine Serie handelt. Ich bin gespannt, wie der nächste Teil heißt, ich freue mich auf jeden Fall darauf. Dieses Buch hier macht ganz sicher Lust auf mehr, zumal es mit einem fulminanten Cliffhanger endet. Ich gebe dafür gerne eine Lese-Empfehlung ab und vergebe fünf Sterne.