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Flickorna och mörkret #1
Tiếng thét dưới băng
Emma, 25 tuổi là nữ nhân viên bán quần áo. Ông chủ Jesper của cô, Tổng giám đốc điều hành một tập đoàn thời trang, muốn cô giữ kín chuyện tình yêu giữa họ dù đã đính hôn. Hai tháng sau, Jesper biến mất không dấu vết và người ta phát hiện trong căn biệt thự của anh ta thi thể một phụ nữ bị cắt rời đầu. Điều kỳ lạ là vụ án này giống hệt với vụ giết người chưa được giải quyết mười năm trước đó. Peter Lindgren và Manfred Olsson phụ trách cuộc điều tra và họ đã vời đến sự trợ giúp của Hanne, nữ chuyên gia xuất sắc trong lĩnh vực lập hồ sơ tội phạm, nay đã nghỉ hưu.
Kể từ khi chồng chưa cưới biến mất, Emma liên tiếp gặp bất hạnh và cô chắc chắn rằng người tình bỏ trốn của mình chính là thủ phạm của những rắc rối đó.
Cùng truy đuổi một người đàn ông bí ẩn vì những lý do khác nhau, Emma và cảnh sát được định sẵn trên một hành trình rùng rợn của nỗi ám ảnh, sự báo thù và tình yêu mù quáng.
Tác giả
Camilla Grebe sinh năm 1968, là tiểu thuyết gia người Thụy Điển. Cô sở hữu bằng thạc sĩ quản trị kinh doanh của Trường Kinh tế Stockholm, là người sáng lập Nhà xuất bản Storyside, chuyên phát hành sách nói và là đồng tác giả của xê ri tiểu thuyết hình sự được đề cử giải Tiểu thuyết trinh thám Thụy Điển hay nhất trong năm do Viện Hàn lâm Tiểu thuyết gia trinh thám Thụy Điển bình chọn. Tiếng thét dưới băng là tiểu thuyết solo đầu tiên của cô xuất bản năm 2015 và trở thành cuốn sách bán chạy nhất của năm ở đất nước này.
Kể từ khi chồng chưa cưới biến mất, Emma liên tiếp gặp bất hạnh và cô chắc chắn rằng người tình bỏ trốn của mình chính là thủ phạm của những rắc rối đó.
Cùng truy đuổi một người đàn ông bí ẩn vì những lý do khác nhau, Emma và cảnh sát được định sẵn trên một hành trình rùng rợn của nỗi ám ảnh, sự báo thù và tình yêu mù quáng.
Tác giả
Camilla Grebe sinh năm 1968, là tiểu thuyết gia người Thụy Điển. Cô sở hữu bằng thạc sĩ quản trị kinh doanh của Trường Kinh tế Stockholm, là người sáng lập Nhà xuất bản Storyside, chuyên phát hành sách nói và là đồng tác giả của xê ri tiểu thuyết hình sự được đề cử giải Tiểu thuyết trinh thám Thụy Điển hay nhất trong năm do Viện Hàn lâm Tiểu thuyết gia trinh thám Thụy Điển bình chọn. Tiếng thét dưới băng là tiểu thuyết solo đầu tiên của cô xuất bản năm 2015 và trở thành cuốn sách bán chạy nhất của năm ở đất nước này.
484 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2015
674 people are currently reading
11869 people want to read
About the author
Camilla Grebe
37 books701 followersCamilla Grebe is an entrepreneur and a former publisher and CEO. She lives in Stockholm, Sweden. Her sister is Åsa Träff.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,389 reviews
April 27, 2017
I’m not even sure I can pinpoint exactly what it is, but something about this clever and well-crafted tale felt completely different; like a breath of fresh Nordic air. Camilla Grebe will take you by the hand and lead you down a path that seems obvious, but be prepared, it’s anything but. It’s obsession at it’s darkest.
Maybe it was the three very distinct perspectives, all told in first-person, which is a tad unusual, that sparked the feeling of this being different somehow. I have a hard time even deciding which perspective was my favorite because each character was delivered with such depth and a unique mindset.
Peter is one of the investigators called on to unravel the mystery behind a woman found beheaded in the home of a well-known and kind of shady CEO, Jesper Orre. For once, a detective was created that wasn’t a raging alcoholic! That’s a win for this genre, in my book. Granted he was still completely messed up and stuck inside of his own head. Unable to commit to anyone or anything other than his job, he leads sort of a miserable existence. But oddly enough, there was still something likable about him. I found myself rooting for him to do something with his life - to take a risk and put himself out there.
In steps Hanne, a former criminal profiler asked to assist on the murder case, and boy do her and Peter have a history. A sordid and honestly, kind of heartbreaking past. She’s struggling with early onset dementia and the reality of how awful it would be to spend her remaining time wallowing in the unhappiness of her own marriage. There was something exciting about watching her make that leap and go after what she’s always wanted.
And last, but certainly not least, enigmatic Emma. Her whole life she’s been told there was something different about her, that she was odd. Until she meets her fiancé, that shady CEO, who claims to be a kindred spirit; someone completely misunderstood like her. She’s willing to do anything for him, even hide their relationship. So the million dollar question becomes - why propose, abandon and ultimately decapitate her?
I think we all know, for any crime novel to be considered great, it has to have a stellar twist. Don't worry, this one delivers - big time. Seriously, is there anything better than the elusive twist - the one I somehow missed among all of the scattered pieces of this puzzle? The ending is the perfect fit for this cunning and wholly enjoyable read.
*THANK YOU to Random House/Ballantine Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Maybe it was the three very distinct perspectives, all told in first-person, which is a tad unusual, that sparked the feeling of this being different somehow. I have a hard time even deciding which perspective was my favorite because each character was delivered with such depth and a unique mindset.
Peter is one of the investigators called on to unravel the mystery behind a woman found beheaded in the home of a well-known and kind of shady CEO, Jesper Orre. For once, a detective was created that wasn’t a raging alcoholic! That’s a win for this genre, in my book. Granted he was still completely messed up and stuck inside of his own head. Unable to commit to anyone or anything other than his job, he leads sort of a miserable existence. But oddly enough, there was still something likable about him. I found myself rooting for him to do something with his life - to take a risk and put himself out there.
In steps Hanne, a former criminal profiler asked to assist on the murder case, and boy do her and Peter have a history. A sordid and honestly, kind of heartbreaking past. She’s struggling with early onset dementia and the reality of how awful it would be to spend her remaining time wallowing in the unhappiness of her own marriage. There was something exciting about watching her make that leap and go after what she’s always wanted.
And last, but certainly not least, enigmatic Emma. Her whole life she’s been told there was something different about her, that she was odd. Until she meets her fiancé, that shady CEO, who claims to be a kindred spirit; someone completely misunderstood like her. She’s willing to do anything for him, even hide their relationship. So the million dollar question becomes - why propose, abandon and ultimately decapitate her?
I think we all know, for any crime novel to be considered great, it has to have a stellar twist. Don't worry, this one delivers - big time. Seriously, is there anything better than the elusive twist - the one I somehow missed among all of the scattered pieces of this puzzle? The ending is the perfect fit for this cunning and wholly enjoyable read.
*THANK YOU to Random House/Ballantine Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2023
Tune into EP.5 of Novels & Nonsense to hear us discuss books (like this one) with jaw dropping plot twists! Streaming everywhere.
**I read this book 3 years ago, but I'm updating my review for clarity
THE PLOT
Homicide detectives, Peter Lindgren and Manfred Olsson, are investigating the disappearance of chain-store CEO Jesper Orre and consider him a suspect in the brutal killing of a woman in his home. At the same time, Emma Bohman, a retail worker for Orre's chain, is trying to find him as well but for different reasons: he ghosted her and she wants to know why.
MY OPINION
Like The Silent Wife , I am once again in the minority with my 5 star review. I can see how others would be turned off by this book; the writing style is very particular (keep in mind, this is the author's first English novel). It's hard to describe the writing style, but I will say, it isn't bad. I've read WAAAAYYYY worse by native English speakers.
So, why did I give this book 5 stars? 1) I was confused the entire time and wondering how this all came together and 2) THAT ENDING THOUGH???? 3 years later, the twist in this book still amazes me. I did not see it coming. I don't want to say too much without ruining it, but the reveal at the end... GURLLL. I was shook.
The storyline was unique and expertly crafted. As I said, I couldn't figure out how everything tied together. Sometimes, in books where two seemingly unrelated yet related storyline parallel each other until the very end, one POV outweighs the other. However, Camilla Grebe did an incredible job advancing each POV and with the character development of all the characters.
Despite the meh reviews, GIVE THIS A CHANCE. The writing isn't bad, just different. It's very... European, if that makes sense? I know it doesn't. But regardless, the ending will have you questioning everything you know. And it is plausible, which makes it even better. You don't have to suspend your disbelief to thoroughly enjoy this read.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: Everything. And I mean everything.
Cons: Nada
**I read this book 3 years ago, but I'm updating my review for clarity
THE PLOT
Homicide detectives, Peter Lindgren and Manfred Olsson, are investigating the disappearance of chain-store CEO Jesper Orre and consider him a suspect in the brutal killing of a woman in his home. At the same time, Emma Bohman, a retail worker for Orre's chain, is trying to find him as well but for different reasons: he ghosted her and she wants to know why.
MY OPINION
Like The Silent Wife , I am once again in the minority with my 5 star review. I can see how others would be turned off by this book; the writing style is very particular (keep in mind, this is the author's first English novel). It's hard to describe the writing style, but I will say, it isn't bad. I've read WAAAAYYYY worse by native English speakers.
So, why did I give this book 5 stars? 1) I was confused the entire time and wondering how this all came together and 2) THAT ENDING THOUGH???? 3 years later, the twist in this book still amazes me. I did not see it coming. I don't want to say too much without ruining it, but the reveal at the end... GURLLL. I was shook.
The storyline was unique and expertly crafted. As I said, I couldn't figure out how everything tied together. Sometimes, in books where two seemingly unrelated yet related storyline parallel each other until the very end, one POV outweighs the other. However, Camilla Grebe did an incredible job advancing each POV and with the character development of all the characters.
Despite the meh reviews, GIVE THIS A CHANCE. The writing isn't bad, just different. It's very... European, if that makes sense? I know it doesn't. But regardless, the ending will have you questioning everything you know. And it is plausible, which makes it even better. You don't have to suspend your disbelief to thoroughly enjoy this read.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: Everything. And I mean everything.
Cons: Nada
July 23, 2023
4.5🌟
A woman’s body is discovered in the home of a successful CEO. Not terribly unusual, you say? All right then…this woman also happened to be decapitated! Got your attention now?! Right?😜
This is the story of Emma. A young woman deeply in love until her new fiancé ghosts her on the night they were to celebrate their engagement. “Hell hath no fury…”
It’s also the story of Peter, a homicide detective who’s part of the team assigned to identity both the murdered woman and the killer, still at large.
Peter is a lonely man, carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. He also carries deep regrets. Among which is a son he shunned from birth, and a soul-mate he foolishly let slip through his fingers.
Her name was Hanne, and she never forgot or completely forgave Peter for his abandonment. Now while enduring the biggest health crisis of her life she once again comes face to face with Peter.
I listened to the audio and absolutely loved the cast of narrators that brought this book to pristine life.
It’s dark, it’s melancholy but most of all, it’s captivating! You will not be able to step away.
There is so much depth to the characters and storyline. But yes! It’s also a crime novel / thriller too! And hold onto your earbuds for an absolutely wicked twist!
A woman’s body is discovered in the home of a successful CEO. Not terribly unusual, you say? All right then…this woman also happened to be decapitated! Got your attention now?! Right?😜
This is the story of Emma. A young woman deeply in love until her new fiancé ghosts her on the night they were to celebrate their engagement. “Hell hath no fury…”
It’s also the story of Peter, a homicide detective who’s part of the team assigned to identity both the murdered woman and the killer, still at large.
Peter is a lonely man, carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. He also carries deep regrets. Among which is a son he shunned from birth, and a soul-mate he foolishly let slip through his fingers.
Her name was Hanne, and she never forgot or completely forgave Peter for his abandonment. Now while enduring the biggest health crisis of her life she once again comes face to face with Peter.
I listened to the audio and absolutely loved the cast of narrators that brought this book to pristine life.
It’s dark, it’s melancholy but most of all, it’s captivating! You will not be able to step away.
There is so much depth to the characters and storyline. But yes! It’s also a crime novel / thriller too! And hold onto your earbuds for an absolutely wicked twist!
March 26, 2017
THE ICE BENEATH HER By Camilla Grebe is a Swedish psychological thriller about a mystery woman who is found viciously murdered in the home of Jesper Orre, the CEO of a very large company. This is the author’s debut as a solo author in this genre.
A young woman is found beheaded in an infamous business tycoon's marble-lined hallway.
The businessman, Jesper Orre, and suspect is missing without a trace.
Who is the dead woman? And who is the brutal killer who wielded the machete?
This is a riveting and alarming story about love, betrayal and obsession that I found impossible to put down. It is fast-paced with captivating well-developed characters with shocks and twists at every turn peaking with an end you won't see coming.
The novel is told from three perspectives, Peter, a shy detective, Hanne, a psychological profiler recently diagnosed with early onset dementia, and Emma, the fiancé of Jesper Orre. Jesper insists that their love affair be kept secret? Emma’s account starts in the past and moves forward to present day, whereas both Peter’s and Hanne’s account start in the present.
Could this beheading murder be related to a similar event which the team worked on years earlier?
Then alarming things begin to happen to Emma, and she suspects Jesper is responsible. But why would he want to hurt her?
I kept trying to figure out who was murdered? I couldn’t sleep last night, so I stayed up and read this novel in one sitting. I was shocked by the ending but it held my attention right to the end.
An enjoyable read!
Thank you to NetGalley, Bonnier Publishing – Zaffre, and Camilla Grebe for an ARC of this book.
A young woman is found beheaded in an infamous business tycoon's marble-lined hallway.
The businessman, Jesper Orre, and suspect is missing without a trace.
Who is the dead woman? And who is the brutal killer who wielded the machete?
This is a riveting and alarming story about love, betrayal and obsession that I found impossible to put down. It is fast-paced with captivating well-developed characters with shocks and twists at every turn peaking with an end you won't see coming.
The novel is told from three perspectives, Peter, a shy detective, Hanne, a psychological profiler recently diagnosed with early onset dementia, and Emma, the fiancé of Jesper Orre. Jesper insists that their love affair be kept secret? Emma’s account starts in the past and moves forward to present day, whereas both Peter’s and Hanne’s account start in the present.
Could this beheading murder be related to a similar event which the team worked on years earlier?
Then alarming things begin to happen to Emma, and she suspects Jesper is responsible. But why would he want to hurt her?
I kept trying to figure out who was murdered? I couldn’t sleep last night, so I stayed up and read this novel in one sitting. I was shocked by the ending but it held my attention right to the end.
An enjoyable read!
Thank you to NetGalley, Bonnier Publishing – Zaffre, and Camilla Grebe for an ARC of this book.
December 25, 2016
A body is found in the residence of a controversial CEO Jesper, headless, staged and Peter and his crew are brought in. The woman is unidentified but there are similarities to a murder of a man from ten years past that had never been solved. They bring in Hanne, who had worked with them on the previous case, somewhat of a profiler, but she is dealing with a silent enemy of her own.
Narrated by three different characters, Peter, Hanne and a young woman who had a relationship with Jesper, we travel inside the minds of these three people. A police procedural as well as a character study, this is an interesting and very well written look at how the case is solved as well as the personal lives and connections of these characters.
Grebe's first solo novel is well done, a solid and well thought out read.
ARC from Netgalley.
Narrated by three different characters, Peter, Hanne and a young woman who had a relationship with Jesper, we travel inside the minds of these three people. A police procedural as well as a character study, this is an interesting and very well written look at how the case is solved as well as the personal lives and connections of these characters.
Grebe's first solo novel is well done, a solid and well thought out read.
ARC from Netgalley.
February 9, 2017
4.25! The ending took me by surprise, I wasn't expecting it. Very good book, I almost want some of these characters to be part of a series.
April 30, 2023
In der Wohnung des reichen Geschäftsmannes Jesper Orre wird eine brutal ermordete Frauenleiche entdeckt. Von Jesper Orre selbst fehlt jede Spur. Der Mord erinnert die Polizei an eine ganz ähnliche Tat, die vor über zehn Jahren begangen wurde. Damals war die Kriminalpsychologin Hanne im Ermittlerteam. Da beide Fälle so eine große Ähnlichkeit zueinander haben, wird Hanne auch diesmal gebeten, an den Ermittlungen teilzuhaben. Hanne willigt zwar ein, allerdings hat sie selbst ein großes privates Problem zu verarbeiten, denn sie ist an Demenz erkrankt...
***
Mein Leseeindruck:
Dieses Buch hat gute 600 Seiten, aber davon sollte man sich keinesfalls abschrecken lassen. Die Geschichte wird immer abwechselnd aus drei Perspektiven erzählt - Peter, der ermittelnde Polizist, Hanne, die Kriminalpsychologin sowie Emma, die Freundin des verschwundenen Geschäftsmannes, in dessen Haus die Leiche gefunden wurde.
Durch diese Perspektivwechsel und natürlich auch durch die spannende Handlung wird es auf den 600 Seiten niemals langweilig.
Ich habe das Buch sehr gerne gelesen und war schnell gefesselt von der Handlung. Dazu sollte man allerdings wissen, dass diese drei Hauptprotagonisten (Peter, Hanne und Emma) sehr im Vordergrund der Geschichte stehen. Wir Leser erfahren viel über sie und ihre Vergangenheit, ihre Erlebnisse und Gefühle. Der eigentliche Mordfall gerät dabei manchmal fast ein wenig in den Hintergrund. Trotzdem war es für mich niemals langweilig, denn schrittweise kommt man dennoch der Lösung des Falles immer näher.
Ich mochte sowohl die Handlung als auch den Schreibstil der Autorin. Sie schreibt sehr angenehm; das Buch hat sich sehr flüssig lesen lassen.
Für mich ist "Wenn das Eis bricht" ein sehr durchdachter, raffinierter Thriller mit sehr interessanten Charakteren. Ich habe das Buch sehr gerne gelesen und hatte schöne Lesestunden mit der Geschichte.
***
Mein Leseeindruck:
Dieses Buch hat gute 600 Seiten, aber davon sollte man sich keinesfalls abschrecken lassen. Die Geschichte wird immer abwechselnd aus drei Perspektiven erzählt - Peter, der ermittelnde Polizist, Hanne, die Kriminalpsychologin sowie Emma, die Freundin des verschwundenen Geschäftsmannes, in dessen Haus die Leiche gefunden wurde.
Durch diese Perspektivwechsel und natürlich auch durch die spannende Handlung wird es auf den 600 Seiten niemals langweilig.
Ich habe das Buch sehr gerne gelesen und war schnell gefesselt von der Handlung. Dazu sollte man allerdings wissen, dass diese drei Hauptprotagonisten (Peter, Hanne und Emma) sehr im Vordergrund der Geschichte stehen. Wir Leser erfahren viel über sie und ihre Vergangenheit, ihre Erlebnisse und Gefühle. Der eigentliche Mordfall gerät dabei manchmal fast ein wenig in den Hintergrund. Trotzdem war es für mich niemals langweilig, denn schrittweise kommt man dennoch der Lösung des Falles immer näher.
Ich mochte sowohl die Handlung als auch den Schreibstil der Autorin. Sie schreibt sehr angenehm; das Buch hat sich sehr flüssig lesen lassen.
Für mich ist "Wenn das Eis bricht" ein sehr durchdachter, raffinierter Thriller mit sehr interessanten Charakteren. Ich habe das Buch sehr gerne gelesen und hatte schöne Lesestunden mit der Geschichte.
March 1, 2017
This was an engaging book, but in the first few introductory chapters, everything felt so depressing.
Three main characters are telling their stories. Peter Lindgren is a homicide detective. He has issues with an ex-girlfriend who is the mother of his son with whom he has no relationship. Hanne Lagerlind-Schön is a criminal profiler. She is bored with her marriage and wants out, and she has a history with Peter. Emma Bohman works in a retail clothing store. Her childhood was not idyllic, but she's fallen in love and is engaged to be married. The crime victim is found in the home of Jesper Orre, who is Emma's boss, future husband, and missing.
The further I read into the book, the more questions I had. The characters (and my questions) were developed through the use of the characters' memories: of their childhoods, their parents, their loves, their betrayals. Ever so slowly, as the investigation proceeds in the present, things became clearer and answers were given. I correctly suspected how the book was going to end, and thus there were no surprises, but the book held my attention and I enjoyed it.
Three main characters are telling their stories. Peter Lindgren is a homicide detective. He has issues with an ex-girlfriend who is the mother of his son with whom he has no relationship. Hanne Lagerlind-Schön is a criminal profiler. She is bored with her marriage and wants out, and she has a history with Peter. Emma Bohman works in a retail clothing store. Her childhood was not idyllic, but she's fallen in love and is engaged to be married. The crime victim is found in the home of Jesper Orre, who is Emma's boss, future husband, and missing.
The further I read into the book, the more questions I had. The characters (and my questions) were developed through the use of the characters' memories: of their childhoods, their parents, their loves, their betrayals. Ever so slowly, as the investigation proceeds in the present, things became clearer and answers were given. I correctly suspected how the book was going to end, and thus there were no surprises, but the book held my attention and I enjoyed it.
September 8, 2016
A Dynamic Thriller!
The Ice Beneath Her by Camilla Grebe is a Psychological Thriller about a mystery woman who is found murdered in the most brutal of ways, in the home, Jesper Orre, the CEO of a very large company, who appears to be missing and is of course, the prime suspect.
The novel is told from three perspectives, Peter and Hanne (a detective and psychological profiler) who investigate the crime and share a past, and Emma, the fiancé of Jesper Orre. Emma’s narration starts in the past and slowly moves forward, to present day, whereas both Peter’s and Hanne’s narrations starts in the present day.
The main characters are extremely well developed and well written. Hanne is kind, smart and wounded, in more ways than one, while Peter is a vapid character who has nothing to offer Hanne or anyone else. Emma, on the other hand, is a multi-faceted woman, who questioned everything and had me questioning everything.
I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who was murdered and enjoyed all of the twists and turns that Ms. Grebe threw the reader’s way. I, for one, was not prepared for the ending and was completely shocked by it. I read the entire book in one sitting – it was a quick easy read and kept my attention all the way through.
I look forward to reading more from Ms. Grebe in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley, Bonnier Publishing – Zaffre, and Camilla Grebe for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley and Goodreads on 8/21/16.
**Will be published on Amazon on 12/27/16.
The Ice Beneath Her by Camilla Grebe is a Psychological Thriller about a mystery woman who is found murdered in the most brutal of ways, in the home, Jesper Orre, the CEO of a very large company, who appears to be missing and is of course, the prime suspect.
The novel is told from three perspectives, Peter and Hanne (a detective and psychological profiler) who investigate the crime and share a past, and Emma, the fiancé of Jesper Orre. Emma’s narration starts in the past and slowly moves forward, to present day, whereas both Peter’s and Hanne’s narrations starts in the present day.
The main characters are extremely well developed and well written. Hanne is kind, smart and wounded, in more ways than one, while Peter is a vapid character who has nothing to offer Hanne or anyone else. Emma, on the other hand, is a multi-faceted woman, who questioned everything and had me questioning everything.
I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who was murdered and enjoyed all of the twists and turns that Ms. Grebe threw the reader’s way. I, for one, was not prepared for the ending and was completely shocked by it. I read the entire book in one sitting – it was a quick easy read and kept my attention all the way through.
I look forward to reading more from Ms. Grebe in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley, Bonnier Publishing – Zaffre, and Camilla Grebe for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley and Goodreads on 8/21/16.
**Will be published on Amazon on 12/27/16.
October 17, 2016
More about character discontent than a gruesome murder suspense.
The format and the structural decisions made in the storytelling did not work for me. First person point of view is powerful when used correctly. Unfortunately, here the rotating first person point-of-view between multiple characters was disorienting and felt like head-hopping; combined with the multiple memory flashbacks with no sections breaks or indications was baffling. I had repeated instances of needing to reread the beginning of a new section because it was presented as merely a successive paragraph belonging to now, when it reality I was thrust backwards in time. The pinball timeline jumping was horrible.
I was expecting more of a suspense, actively watching the case unfold, than a tangle of character angst and ennui. The decapitation was a good touch, but it felt glossed over and lacking the horror. It was more concerned with characters shoes getting mucky than chilled by the violence and dedication such an act requires. The lack of emotion seems to be key, and I'm not just talking about the reserved quality of Scandinavian cultural norms--it felt blah...
There are some amusing descriptives, but there is also a great deal of minutae that just filled the pages and felt like flipping through a catalog instead of being immersed in the scenes. This kept me separated and fed my disinterest as it proceeded from one tale of a character's discontent to another. Eventually, I decided I really did not want to finish it because I didn't care what happened.
Overall, disappointing.
Apparently, Nordic Noir is becoming a thing for me. That, and the lure of decapitation, which unfortunately, did not live up to my hopes.
~~ARC provided by NetGalley~~
The format and the structural decisions made in the storytelling did not work for me. First person point of view is powerful when used correctly. Unfortunately, here the rotating first person point-of-view between multiple characters was disorienting and felt like head-hopping; combined with the multiple memory flashbacks with no sections breaks or indications was baffling. I had repeated instances of needing to reread the beginning of a new section because it was presented as merely a successive paragraph belonging to now, when it reality I was thrust backwards in time. The pinball timeline jumping was horrible.
I was expecting more of a suspense, actively watching the case unfold, than a tangle of character angst and ennui. The decapitation was a good touch, but it felt glossed over and lacking the horror. It was more concerned with characters shoes getting mucky than chilled by the violence and dedication such an act requires. The lack of emotion seems to be key, and I'm not just talking about the reserved quality of Scandinavian cultural norms--it felt blah...
There are some amusing descriptives, but there is also a great deal of minutae that just filled the pages and felt like flipping through a catalog instead of being immersed in the scenes. This kept me separated and fed my disinterest as it proceeded from one tale of a character's discontent to another. Eventually, I decided I really did not want to finish it because I didn't care what happened.
Overall, disappointing.
Apparently, Nordic Noir is becoming a thing for me. That, and the lure of decapitation, which unfortunately, did not live up to my hopes.
~~ARC provided by NetGalley~~
February 7, 2017
The Ice Beneath Her is one of the best novels I have read within the past year.
There are those books that very early on in your reading of them cause you to think, "unless something really changes, this is going to be a five - or "six" - star read for me. I was not even halfway done with The Ice Beneath Her when I knew I was reading something special.
The Ice Beneath Her satisfied so many of my crime fiction preferences.
Most of the novel is a masterclass in "show, don't tell".
I have rarely been so moved in a work of crime fiction by so many scenes of great emotional depth and poignancy; scenes that flow through the narrative naturally; scenes that the reader feels
in their heart.
The characters are deeply human, and are the meat of the work.
We resent and detest some of the characters at times, as we are meant to, and at other times, we sympathize with vulnerabilities. Just like in real life, none of the characters are just one thing - all good or all bad. Bits and pieces of their layers are revealed to the reader throughout. Their histories and life experiences contribute to making them who they are. And discovering who the characters are, dear reader, in all of their unreliable complexity, is the delicious, mind-bending journey that this novel takes its readers on.
While The Ice Beneath Her does have a gripping plot with unexpected twists and surprises, is it a 100 mile-per-hour roller coaster ride with shocks throughout? I would not say so, and if a reader approaches it with those expectations, it may not be the right book for them. If, however, a reader enjoys his or her crime fiction with a literary bent, this novel is tailor-made for them. It is moody, and atmospheric, and nuanced. The plotting of the story is excellent, and the mystery itself never failed to hold my interest, yet it unfolded like the metamorphosis of a butterfly,
with its rich rewards.
The Ice Beneath Her has introduced me to a wonderful writer. It has also reintroduced me to a sub-genre of crime fiction hailing from the Nordic countries which has its own distinct flavor and perspective, and which I will absolutely be reading much more of in the future.
There are those books that very early on in your reading of them cause you to think, "unless something really changes, this is going to be a five - or "six" - star read for me. I was not even halfway done with The Ice Beneath Her when I knew I was reading something special.
The Ice Beneath Her satisfied so many of my crime fiction preferences.
Most of the novel is a masterclass in "show, don't tell".
I have rarely been so moved in a work of crime fiction by so many scenes of great emotional depth and poignancy; scenes that flow through the narrative naturally; scenes that the reader feels
in their heart.
The characters are deeply human, and are the meat of the work.
We resent and detest some of the characters at times, as we are meant to, and at other times, we sympathize with vulnerabilities. Just like in real life, none of the characters are just one thing - all good or all bad. Bits and pieces of their layers are revealed to the reader throughout. Their histories and life experiences contribute to making them who they are. And discovering who the characters are, dear reader, in all of their unreliable complexity, is the delicious, mind-bending journey that this novel takes its readers on.
While The Ice Beneath Her does have a gripping plot with unexpected twists and surprises, is it a 100 mile-per-hour roller coaster ride with shocks throughout? I would not say so, and if a reader approaches it with those expectations, it may not be the right book for them. If, however, a reader enjoys his or her crime fiction with a literary bent, this novel is tailor-made for them. It is moody, and atmospheric, and nuanced. The plotting of the story is excellent, and the mystery itself never failed to hold my interest, yet it unfolded like the metamorphosis of a butterfly,
with its rich rewards.
The Ice Beneath Her has introduced me to a wonderful writer. It has also reintroduced me to a sub-genre of crime fiction hailing from the Nordic countries which has its own distinct flavor and perspective, and which I will absolutely be reading much more of in the future.
August 30, 2022
Book Blog | Bookstagram
An unidentified, decapitated woman is found in the bed of a moderately famous, very wealthy CEO who has disappeared.
DI Peter Lindgren is the lead detective on the case. He’s a despondent, sullen character. Hanne is a former criminal profiler with early-onset dementia who is asked to consult on the case of the headless woman. She was a total badass in a very classy, understated way. And I totally aspire to that. But for now, I’m a clown shoe. But still, aspiring. Then there's Emma - sweet and naive.
My overwhelming urge to scream "RUN BITCH RUN!!" at Emma stayed with me through most of the book and that’s an interesting emotional level to maintain. Sad, lonely Emma. Pinning all her hopes and dreams on a man because he makes her feel like a person who finally belongs?
That’s really the crux of the story - What is real love? What kind of love do we accept? When does love become an obsession? When does obsession lead to betrayal? And when does betrayal lead to anger and revenge? It’s deep, people! But I can’t really talk about it anymore without giving plot elements away.
Ultimately, the character voices in this one were strong and vivid and unique. They elicit honest emotion from the reader, with depth and attention. It is a clean and tight example of “show, don’t tell” writing, and expert pacing.
Is it a thrill ride? No. But it is thoughtful and poignant and emotionally addictive. The true definition of a page-turner, action-packed or not.
And let’s talk about atmosphere because this book is making it rain (no pun intended) with its cold and bleak autumn setting. I could feel it right through my leggings. Granted, leggings are pretty thin, but still.
This is a smart, well-plotted novel that delivers a perfect ending of a plot twist. I’m talking, like, a pick your jaw up off-the-floor plot twist. Even for the most seasoned mystery reader, the ending is evasive.
But, if anyone can let me know what the title has to do with anything, that would be appreciated.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4 stars
An unidentified, decapitated woman is found in the bed of a moderately famous, very wealthy CEO who has disappeared.
DI Peter Lindgren is the lead detective on the case. He’s a despondent, sullen character. Hanne is a former criminal profiler with early-onset dementia who is asked to consult on the case of the headless woman. She was a total badass in a very classy, understated way. And I totally aspire to that. But for now, I’m a clown shoe. But still, aspiring. Then there's Emma - sweet and naive.
My overwhelming urge to scream "RUN BITCH RUN!!" at Emma stayed with me through most of the book and that’s an interesting emotional level to maintain. Sad, lonely Emma. Pinning all her hopes and dreams on a man because he makes her feel like a person who finally belongs?
That’s really the crux of the story - What is real love? What kind of love do we accept? When does love become an obsession? When does obsession lead to betrayal? And when does betrayal lead to anger and revenge? It’s deep, people! But I can’t really talk about it anymore without giving plot elements away.
Ultimately, the character voices in this one were strong and vivid and unique. They elicit honest emotion from the reader, with depth and attention. It is a clean and tight example of “show, don’t tell” writing, and expert pacing.
Is it a thrill ride? No. But it is thoughtful and poignant and emotionally addictive. The true definition of a page-turner, action-packed or not.
And let’s talk about atmosphere because this book is making it rain (no pun intended) with its cold and bleak autumn setting. I could feel it right through my leggings. Granted, leggings are pretty thin, but still.
This is a smart, well-plotted novel that delivers a perfect ending of a plot twist. I’m talking, like, a pick your jaw up off-the-floor plot twist. Even for the most seasoned mystery reader, the ending is evasive.
But, if anyone can let me know what the title has to do with anything, that would be appreciated.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4 stars
October 13, 2016
This. Book. Is. Amazing!!!!
Scandinavian crime fiction at its best. Vivid atmosphere, rich character development, and whip-smart plotting. I absolutely loved this book and simply could NOT put it down.
This story alternates between 3 narrators, and I loved the way Camilla Grebe draws you slowly but surely toward the heart of the story through the unique perspective of the 3 narrators. This is much more character-driven, less procedural-heavy than other Scandinavian authors, and Grebe has clearly found her voice within the many talented crime authors hailing from Scandinavia. She is a standout author, and THE ICE BENEATH HER is a standout crime novel. Highly, highly recommend.
Scandinavian crime fiction at its best. Vivid atmosphere, rich character development, and whip-smart plotting. I absolutely loved this book and simply could NOT put it down.
This story alternates between 3 narrators, and I loved the way Camilla Grebe draws you slowly but surely toward the heart of the story through the unique perspective of the 3 narrators. This is much more character-driven, less procedural-heavy than other Scandinavian authors, and Grebe has clearly found her voice within the many talented crime authors hailing from Scandinavia. She is a standout author, and THE ICE BENEATH HER is a standout crime novel. Highly, highly recommend.
December 6, 2016
The book starts out with a great Inuit proverb: "You never know friend or foe, 'til the ice beneath gives way."
When I started reading this, I was immediately disappointed that it was in 1st POV. And it's alternating POV of three different people in the story. I have to admit when I know this in advance, I often opt out of reading a book. I tend not to read 1st POV and as I just don't care for this format, it takes considerably longer for me to get pulled into the story.
There are 3 MCs and POVs in the book: Peter a detective trying to solve a murder case, Hanne a consultant to the case who had an affair with Peter 10 years ago and Emma, the unknown quantity. Although the POV is alternating, the voice of all three has the same depressing undertone to it. A little like you were listening to someone who speaks in a monotone voice and details out their boring and depressing existence.
Instead of a gripping thriller, this felt more like a character analysis of how childhood trauma and circumstances impact your adult life and choices. Through most of this book I kept thinking, these people are depressing. We are constantly looking back to their depressing childhood in an effort to explain who they are today but I would rather see some crime investigation. The Peter and Emma MC's meander through their childhood lives and current day life (slightly prior to current day in Emma's case) jumping without reason between past and present so you have to be careful that you don't miss the transition. I did a number of times and then it takes a couple of sentences before you realize that you're back to the past or back to the present. One minute you're in one room with certain people and then next paragraph it's a different scene but you've yet to realize and adjust. Although, the transitions are really choppy, I need to state I read an ARC so this issue could be corrected in the final edit. The chapters are labeled Peter, Emma and Hanne so at least you know which POV you're reading.
Hanne doesn't really revisit her past so much as consider the fact that she stayed so long in a loveless marriage with a controlling man. Hanne and Peter have a past where he basically was a douche bag, but of course, that's due to his childhood. He's divorced and has a teenage son but avoids the son and any fatherly responsibility. I have to say I didn't feel any sympathy towards him - he hurt too many people in his I don't take responsibility attitude.
At 52%, Peter states "Or maybe I don't have much to say because I'm basically uninteresting." All I could think was that I agreed with him, he wasn't interesting. At 62% Peter states. "You can't trust women. They're no more intelligent than men, but they put more energy into figuring us out. And so we men find ourselves at a constant, self-inflicted disadvantage." And I thought he continues to be unimpressive and unlikable. What did Hanne or his ex-wife see in him?
At 76% when Hanne stated, "Hope is just an overrated life raft that sick people are expected to cling to with a brave and grateful smile." Again, the depressing attitudes were so pervasive that it was hard to enjoy reading this book.
Most of the book I was wondering where is the thriller aspect of this story? When will it be gripping?
From a police perspective, the story is disappointing. In my head, I keep asking questions, "What about this? What about that? How much time has passed and we haven't heard any mention of certain key elements." Which goes back to my earlier comment that this seemed more like a character analysis than a crime investigation. And although the 3 MCs have an epilogue that tells you where they are, I find I was still asking questions that didn't get answered.
The story plot was a very good one, but in the end, the book wasn't an enjoyable read for me because it was about depressing characters and it was written with such a meandering delivery. The last 10 to 20% of the story was much better and not nearly so depressing, but I believe the whole book should be interesting and enjoyable and not just the ending. So for me this was about a 2.5 star read.
I would like to thank Net Galley, Zaffree and the author for the opportunity to read this book. I wished I had enjoyed it more.
When I started reading this, I was immediately disappointed that it was in 1st POV. And it's alternating POV of three different people in the story. I have to admit when I know this in advance, I often opt out of reading a book. I tend not to read 1st POV and as I just don't care for this format, it takes considerably longer for me to get pulled into the story.
There are 3 MCs and POVs in the book: Peter a detective trying to solve a murder case, Hanne a consultant to the case who had an affair with Peter 10 years ago and Emma, the unknown quantity. Although the POV is alternating, the voice of all three has the same depressing undertone to it. A little like you were listening to someone who speaks in a monotone voice and details out their boring and depressing existence.
Instead of a gripping thriller, this felt more like a character analysis of how childhood trauma and circumstances impact your adult life and choices. Through most of this book I kept thinking, these people are depressing. We are constantly looking back to their depressing childhood in an effort to explain who they are today but I would rather see some crime investigation. The Peter and Emma MC's meander through their childhood lives and current day life (slightly prior to current day in Emma's case) jumping without reason between past and present so you have to be careful that you don't miss the transition. I did a number of times and then it takes a couple of sentences before you realize that you're back to the past or back to the present. One minute you're in one room with certain people and then next paragraph it's a different scene but you've yet to realize and adjust. Although, the transitions are really choppy, I need to state I read an ARC so this issue could be corrected in the final edit. The chapters are labeled Peter, Emma and Hanne so at least you know which POV you're reading.
Hanne doesn't really revisit her past so much as consider the fact that she stayed so long in a loveless marriage with a controlling man. Hanne and Peter have a past where he basically was a douche bag, but of course, that's due to his childhood. He's divorced and has a teenage son but avoids the son and any fatherly responsibility. I have to say I didn't feel any sympathy towards him - he hurt too many people in his I don't take responsibility attitude.
At 52%, Peter states "Or maybe I don't have much to say because I'm basically uninteresting." All I could think was that I agreed with him, he wasn't interesting. At 62% Peter states. "You can't trust women. They're no more intelligent than men, but they put more energy into figuring us out. And so we men find ourselves at a constant, self-inflicted disadvantage." And I thought he continues to be unimpressive and unlikable. What did Hanne or his ex-wife see in him?
At 76% when Hanne stated, "Hope is just an overrated life raft that sick people are expected to cling to with a brave and grateful smile." Again, the depressing attitudes were so pervasive that it was hard to enjoy reading this book.
Most of the book I was wondering where is the thriller aspect of this story? When will it be gripping?
From a police perspective, the story is disappointing. In my head, I keep asking questions, "What about this? What about that? How much time has passed and we haven't heard any mention of certain key elements." Which goes back to my earlier comment that this seemed more like a character analysis than a crime investigation. And although the 3 MCs have an epilogue that tells you where they are, I find I was still asking questions that didn't get answered.
The story plot was a very good one, but in the end, the book wasn't an enjoyable read for me because it was about depressing characters and it was written with such a meandering delivery. The last 10 to 20% of the story was much better and not nearly so depressing, but I believe the whole book should be interesting and enjoyable and not just the ending. So for me this was about a 2.5 star read.
I would like to thank Net Galley, Zaffree and the author for the opportunity to read this book. I wished I had enjoyed it more.
April 15, 2024
Un thriller intens, plin de surprize. Chiar eram curioasă dacă merită 5 stele și da chiar merită.
July 6, 2016
I am a great lover of Nordic Noir and, having never read anything by Camilla Grebe before, was keen to try this out. She has co-authored earlier books, but this is her debut thriller solely written by herself and, in many ways, is typical of the genre. Set largely in Stockholm, this is a dark and unsettling novel, narrated by three main characters. There is Detective Inspector Peter Lindgren, Hanne, a police consultant who has early onset Alzheimer’s and a young shop worker called Emma Bohman.
When he is called to the house of wealthy businessman, Jesper Orre, Peter Lindgren finds the CEO missing and a woman beheaded in his hallway. The crime reminds him, and his partner Manfred Olsson, of a similar murder some years before. As Hanne was involved with that case, she is invited back to offer her advice; even though her and Peter had previously been involved with each other and their relationship had not ended happily. Meanwhile, Emma also narrates her story and tells of her relationship with Jesper Orre.
It is fair to say that at least one of the main characters is an unreliable narrator and that, as is so often the case in Nordic Noir crime fiction, many of the characters have personal issues. What unfolds is a tangled tale of romantic love, jealousy, betrayal and secrets. As a crime novel it is fairly dark and violent, but I enjoyed the different viewpoints and especially liked the parts from the points of view of Hanne and Emma. It was not quite a five star read for me, but I would certainly try more by this author and, if you do like your crime cold, dark and dangerous, then you will probably like this too.
When he is called to the house of wealthy businessman, Jesper Orre, Peter Lindgren finds the CEO missing and a woman beheaded in his hallway. The crime reminds him, and his partner Manfred Olsson, of a similar murder some years before. As Hanne was involved with that case, she is invited back to offer her advice; even though her and Peter had previously been involved with each other and their relationship had not ended happily. Meanwhile, Emma also narrates her story and tells of her relationship with Jesper Orre.
It is fair to say that at least one of the main characters is an unreliable narrator and that, as is so often the case in Nordic Noir crime fiction, many of the characters have personal issues. What unfolds is a tangled tale of romantic love, jealousy, betrayal and secrets. As a crime novel it is fairly dark and violent, but I enjoyed the different viewpoints and especially liked the parts from the points of view of Hanne and Emma. It was not quite a five star read for me, but I would certainly try more by this author and, if you do like your crime cold, dark and dangerous, then you will probably like this too.
September 21, 2017
Looking for a satisfying crime thriller? “The Ice Beneath Her” is must read choice. This is an emotionally complex thriller that contains abundant twists and turns. It’s a fabulous read.
Set in Stockholm, author Camillia Grebe uses the harsh winter and dreary skies to enhance the grisly story. An unidentified woman is beheaded in an upscale suburban neighborhood of Stockholm. The home belongs to a playboy chain-store owner who has garnered ugly press for his business practices and his womanizing. The playboy is missing, the woman is unknown.
Homicide detectives Peter Lindgren and Manfred Olsson are on the case and employ profiler Hanne Lagerlind-Schon. The reader is introduced to Emma Bohman who through her narration learns that she engaged in a questionable affair with the playboy. The story is told through Peter, Hanne, and Emma. Emma’s story begins 2 months prior to the crime. Peter and Hanne tell their stories in real time, but the two have a history together so the reader learns of their past. All three narrators are emotionally battered for different reasons. The reader may have difficulty with Peter because his character is written as a selfish and difficult person. He is unlikeable, but he’s not distracting to the great plot and storyline.
Although towards the end I figured out the murder mystery, I wanted to see how Grebe ties it all together. I figured out the murderer, but I didn’t figure out the ending, which left me hanging a bit. After researching the novel on the Internet, I learned that Grebe intends to use write a series featuring Peter Lindgren. I shall look forward to the series. I also saw that movie rights have been purchased and I believe this will be a blockbuster movie (if done well). This novel certainly earns 5 stars in the psychological crime thriller niche.
Set in Stockholm, author Camillia Grebe uses the harsh winter and dreary skies to enhance the grisly story. An unidentified woman is beheaded in an upscale suburban neighborhood of Stockholm. The home belongs to a playboy chain-store owner who has garnered ugly press for his business practices and his womanizing. The playboy is missing, the woman is unknown.
Homicide detectives Peter Lindgren and Manfred Olsson are on the case and employ profiler Hanne Lagerlind-Schon. The reader is introduced to Emma Bohman who through her narration learns that she engaged in a questionable affair with the playboy. The story is told through Peter, Hanne, and Emma. Emma’s story begins 2 months prior to the crime. Peter and Hanne tell their stories in real time, but the two have a history together so the reader learns of their past. All three narrators are emotionally battered for different reasons. The reader may have difficulty with Peter because his character is written as a selfish and difficult person. He is unlikeable, but he’s not distracting to the great plot and storyline.
Although towards the end I figured out the murder mystery, I wanted to see how Grebe ties it all together. I figured out the murderer, but I didn’t figure out the ending, which left me hanging a bit. After researching the novel on the Internet, I learned that Grebe intends to use write a series featuring Peter Lindgren. I shall look forward to the series. I also saw that movie rights have been purchased and I believe this will be a blockbuster movie (if done well). This novel certainly earns 5 stars in the psychological crime thriller niche.
July 31, 2017
"Winter’s chill has descended on Stockholm as police arrive at the scene of a shocking murder. An unidentified woman lies beheaded in a posh suburban home-a brutal crime made all the more disturbing by its uncanny resemblance to an unsolved killing ten years earlier. But this time there’s a suspect: the charismatic and controversial chain-store CEO Jesper Orre, who owns the home but is nowhere to be found."
The murders are gruesome in detail and often difficult to read. But the writing is engaging and intense. Each chapter is written from an alternating character’s POV, an effective device that kept me uncertain almost until the end.
If you love psychological thrillers and don’t mind graphic scenes of violence, you’ll enjoy this amazing crime thriller. The characters are fascinating, perfectly developed, and several draw great sympathy even though flawed. I loved that element of the story; the relationships added a necessary quality, a warmth to this otherwise disturbing mystery. Certain scenes are especially touching and memorable. The ending was perfect, and your thoughts will linger as you read the last page.
The murders are gruesome in detail and often difficult to read. But the writing is engaging and intense. Each chapter is written from an alternating character’s POV, an effective device that kept me uncertain almost until the end.
If you love psychological thrillers and don’t mind graphic scenes of violence, you’ll enjoy this amazing crime thriller. The characters are fascinating, perfectly developed, and several draw great sympathy even though flawed. I loved that element of the story; the relationships added a necessary quality, a warmth to this otherwise disturbing mystery. Certain scenes are especially touching and memorable. The ending was perfect, and your thoughts will linger as you read the last page.
May 6, 2017
3.5 out of 5 stars
Read
August 14, 2016Really got hooked on “The Ice Beneath Her” – a clever and addictive psychological thriller with some great main characters (one of whom I disliked to the point of loving) and a lovely twisty turny whodunnit at the heart that will keep you on your reading toes.
I found it an interesting dynamic – a profiler with dementia and a detective with commitment issues, investigating the rather horrific death of a woman who can’t be identified, seemingly by a man who is really not that nice of a guy – but seeing as how he has disappeared its all a little fraught. Cue a lot of shenanigans of the twisted kind and a set of intriguing character studies culminating in a fascinating solution.
I banged through this one, you always want to read just a little bit more – in the resolution stakes I did see the ending arriving about halfway through but in this case I would definitely say that is because the author does not in any way cheat the reader – if you absorb the story as it goes it becomes fairly apparent. It is no less enticing because of this though for reasons you’ll see when you read it.
I thought the portions of the narrative that dealt with Hanne’s ongoing dementia were sympathetic and realistic, she is an entirely engaging character who is very determined and seeing how she coped with things was really quite emotional at times. Emma is highly intriguing, a girl who is flummoxed by the actions of her lover, another clever play on human nature that is a vibe that runs throughout.
Overall really very good. Looking forward to more.
I found it an interesting dynamic – a profiler with dementia and a detective with commitment issues, investigating the rather horrific death of a woman who can’t be identified, seemingly by a man who is really not that nice of a guy – but seeing as how he has disappeared its all a little fraught. Cue a lot of shenanigans of the twisted kind and a set of intriguing character studies culminating in a fascinating solution.
I banged through this one, you always want to read just a little bit more – in the resolution stakes I did see the ending arriving about halfway through but in this case I would definitely say that is because the author does not in any way cheat the reader – if you absorb the story as it goes it becomes fairly apparent. It is no less enticing because of this though for reasons you’ll see when you read it.
I thought the portions of the narrative that dealt with Hanne’s ongoing dementia were sympathetic and realistic, she is an entirely engaging character who is very determined and seeing how she coped with things was really quite emotional at times. Emma is highly intriguing, a girl who is flummoxed by the actions of her lover, another clever play on human nature that is a vibe that runs throughout.
Overall really very good. Looking forward to more.
September 7, 2016
A young woman is found beheaded in the house of a controversial CEO of a clothing chain. The identity of the woman is unknown. The businessman, Jesper Orre, has simply vanished.
The story is told from three first-person perspectives:
The investigating DI, Peter Lindgren, a disillusioned and despondent man about to hit the big 5-0 whose only true commitment has always been his job.
A former profiler, Hanne, who is asked back to assist with the investigation when similarities to a crime from a decade ago are found. Hanne has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia and is trapped in a loveless marriage to a controlling man.
Then there's Emma's perspective which unlike the other two starts in the past and recounts her relationship with her fiancé, Jesper Orre. A relationship they are having to keep secret because he is her employer.
My experience with Scandinavian crime fiction has always been hit-and-miss. This one had the typical cold and bleak atmosphere and the detailed police procedural, but the alternating perspectives and the intricate insight into the past and present lives of these three intriguing and well-developed characters made this one into a definite hit. I particularly enjoyed Emma's and Hanne's perspectives. Overall, a fascinating character study, which was fast-paced and held my attention throughout. The solution to the crime becomes apparent about halfway through the novel, but it didn't lessen my enjoyment of the story at all. A very well-written debut by Swedish author Camilla Grebe, which I highly recommend if you enjoy dark Nordic character-driven fiction.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told from three first-person perspectives:
The investigating DI, Peter Lindgren, a disillusioned and despondent man about to hit the big 5-0 whose only true commitment has always been his job.
A former profiler, Hanne, who is asked back to assist with the investigation when similarities to a crime from a decade ago are found. Hanne has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia and is trapped in a loveless marriage to a controlling man.
Then there's Emma's perspective which unlike the other two starts in the past and recounts her relationship with her fiancé, Jesper Orre. A relationship they are having to keep secret because he is her employer.
My experience with Scandinavian crime fiction has always been hit-and-miss. This one had the typical cold and bleak atmosphere and the detailed police procedural, but the alternating perspectives and the intricate insight into the past and present lives of these three intriguing and well-developed characters made this one into a definite hit. I particularly enjoyed Emma's and Hanne's perspectives. Overall, a fascinating character study, which was fast-paced and held my attention throughout. The solution to the crime becomes apparent about halfway through the novel, but it didn't lessen my enjoyment of the story at all. A very well-written debut by Swedish author Camilla Grebe, which I highly recommend if you enjoy dark Nordic character-driven fiction.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2018
☆2.25/5☆
▪Plot 2/5
▪Details 3/5
▪Characters 2/5
▪Romance 1.5/5
▪Logic 3/5
▪Writing style 2/5
▪Enjoyment 2.5/5
Below average ... blah
▪Plot 2/5
▪Details 3/5
▪Characters 2/5
▪Romance 1.5/5
▪Logic 3/5
▪Writing style 2/5
▪Enjoyment 2.5/5
Below average ... blah
July 13, 2017
Βαθμολογία: ★★★★
Εδώ και κάποιο καιρό νιώθω ένα αίσθημα κορεσμού σε ό,τι αφορά τα σκανδιναβικά αστυνομικά. Θεωρώ πως τα περισσότερα πλέον ακολουθούν μια συγκεκριμένη, προβλέψιμη συνταγή και δυσκολεύομαι να τα απολαύσω. Το «Σε λεπτό πάγο» ακολουθεί κι αυτό παρόμοια συνταγή, αλλά κάτι το κάνει να ξεχωρίζει από τα υπόλοιπα. Ίσως το ότι δεν αποτελεί μέρος σειράς, μια περιπέτεια ενός ντετέκτιβ που ναι μεν ολοκληρώνεται, αλλά έχει αρκετούς φυτεμένους σπόρους που σε βάζουν στο τριπάκι να διαβάσεις και το επόμενο βιβλίο για να μάθεις τη συνέχεια. Ίσως, πάλι, να είναι οι τρεις πρωτοπρόσωπες αφηγήσεις, κάτι που δεν συμβαίνει συχνά σε αστυνομικό μυθιστόρημα και σου ρίχνουν φως στην υπόθεση από όλες τις γωνίες. Μου φάνηκε αρκετά φρέσκο και δυναμικό, μια ανάσα στην υπερπληθώρα των σκανδιναβικών που επικρατεί.
Εδώ και κάποιο καιρό νιώθω ένα αίσθημα κορεσμού σε ό,τι αφορά τα σκανδιναβικά αστυνομικά. Θεωρώ πως τα περισσότερα πλέον ακολουθούν μια συγκεκριμένη, προβλέψιμη συνταγή και δυσκολεύομαι να τα απολαύσω. Το «Σε λεπτό πάγο» ακολουθεί κι αυτό παρόμοια συνταγή, αλλά κάτι το κάνει να ξεχωρίζει από τα υπόλοιπα. Ίσως το ότι δεν αποτελεί μέρος σειράς, μια περιπέτεια ενός ντετέκτιβ που ναι μεν ολοκληρώνεται, αλλά έχει αρκετούς φυτεμένους σπόρους που σε βάζουν στο τριπάκι να διαβάσεις και το επόμενο βιβλίο για να μάθεις τη συνέχεια. Ίσως, πάλι, να είναι οι τρεις πρωτοπρόσωπες αφηγήσεις, κάτι που δεν συμβαίνει συχνά σε αστυνομικό μυθιστόρημα και σου ρίχνουν φως στην υπόθεση από όλες τις γωνίες. Μου φάνηκε αρκετά φρέσκο και δυναμικό, μια ανάσα στην υπερπληθώρα των σκανδιναβικών που επικρατεί.
September 19, 2016
There have been so many reviews for this book so I will keep this short. This is an excellent psychological thriller, highly addictive and one that you will not want to put down until you are finished. The story is clever and fast paced told from three different perspectives, Emma engaged to a missing entrepreneur, Hanna a retired police profiler and Peter a police officer. It seems that none of these characters are particularly happy but together they make for great reading, riveting, compelling and highly enjoyable.
April 19, 2022
Zilele acestea in care am citit romanul a fost atat de frig incat am avut impresia ca stau undeva in pestera unui Yeti si, ca sa ma leg de titlul cartii, imi venea sa spun 'Gheata de deasupra capului meu".
Pe coperta se afirma: "Intunecat. Incitant. Socant." - 3 cuvinte care ma umplu instantaneu de entuziasm, asadar m-am apucat de lectura cu asteptari mari. Tot de pe coperta mai aflam ca Publisher's Weekly considera ca fanii lui Jo Nesbo si Ruth Ware o vor indragi si pe autoarea Camilla Grebe, Booklist ne asigura ca atmosfera seamana cu "Fata din tren", iar Kirkus Review aminteste de "nordic-noir". Suntem asadar bombardati cu aceste manevre de marketing, de care zic eu ca romanul nu ar fi avut nevoie, fiind bun si de sine statator.
Ne aflam in fata unui thriller psihologic in care naratiunea se face la persoana intai si aflam povestea din perspectiva a 3 naratori: Peter, Hanne si Emma.
Peter este detectiv la Stockholm si impreuna cu colegul sau Manfred au de rezolvat un caz de crima brutala. O femeie tanara este gasita decapitata intr-o locuinta luxoasa apartinandu-i controversatului om de afaceri Jesper Orre, care la randul sau este disparut. Crima seamana insa foarte mult cu un caz neelucidat de acum 10 ani.
Mi-a placut de Peter, de felul in care povesteste ancheta cu un cinism sincer, oarecum amarat de profesia si viata sa privata.
Hanne este ceea ce in literatura de specialitate numim profiler. Ea colaborase cu politia in urma cu 10 ani la primul caz si este rugata sa revina si sa ajute si in aceasta ancheta. Sufera de dementa precoce si cititorul o s-o indrageasca, fiind simpatica, placuta si practica. Are un trecut amoros cu Peter.
Emma este tanara logodnica a lui Jesper Orre. Ea lucreaza la magazinul de moda pe care barbatul il detine. Cand acesta nu mai vine la intalnire cu ea, Emma decide sa-l gaseasca singura. Abandonata, disperata si insarcinata ea incearca sa dea de urma unui barbat despre care stie numai minciuni si la care nu are acces. Curand realizeaza ca razbunarea, ultima ei arma e exact ce merita Jesper Orre.
Va recomand romanul, este un thriller politist reusit, ancheta este interesanta, cei 3 protagonisti sunt bine construiti, finalul e surprinzator si pur si simplu nu poti lasa cartea din mana.
Romanul ne invata si despre erotomanie, un termen psihiatric pentru situatia in care o persoana crede ca a avut o relatie cu cineva fara sa-l fi cunoscut vreodata in viata reala.
In incheiere atasez cateva citate interesante si pline de invataminte:
"Tihna si linistea i se potriveau mult mai mult decat cicalirea. Dar era o dorinta absurda. Nu-i poti cere prietenei tale sa fie tacuta si goala."
"Mi se pare ca iubirea nu e doar ceea ce simti pentru alta fiinta umana, ci inseamna sa te si vezi prin ochii iubitului. Sa vezi frumusete acolo unde inainte vedeai doar defecte."
"Doar femeile disperate te bat la cap, ma gandesc, iar femeile disperate sunt greu de iubit."
"Ca de fiecare data cand intalneam pe cineva care era putin defect, am simtit nevoia de a incerca sa-l vindec."
"Nu poti sa ai incredere in femei. Nu sunt mai inteligente decat barbatii, dar investesc mai multa energie in efortul de a ne descifra. Asa ca noi, barbatii, ne gasim mereu intr-un dezavantaj auto-indus."
"Dorul e un instrument excelent de masurare a valorii lucrului pe care l-ai pierdut - o valuta la fel de demna de incredere ca oricare alta."
Pe coperta se afirma: "Intunecat. Incitant. Socant." - 3 cuvinte care ma umplu instantaneu de entuziasm, asadar m-am apucat de lectura cu asteptari mari. Tot de pe coperta mai aflam ca Publisher's Weekly considera ca fanii lui Jo Nesbo si Ruth Ware o vor indragi si pe autoarea Camilla Grebe, Booklist ne asigura ca atmosfera seamana cu "Fata din tren", iar Kirkus Review aminteste de "nordic-noir". Suntem asadar bombardati cu aceste manevre de marketing, de care zic eu ca romanul nu ar fi avut nevoie, fiind bun si de sine statator.
Ne aflam in fata unui thriller psihologic in care naratiunea se face la persoana intai si aflam povestea din perspectiva a 3 naratori: Peter, Hanne si Emma.
Peter este detectiv la Stockholm si impreuna cu colegul sau Manfred au de rezolvat un caz de crima brutala. O femeie tanara este gasita decapitata intr-o locuinta luxoasa apartinandu-i controversatului om de afaceri Jesper Orre, care la randul sau este disparut. Crima seamana insa foarte mult cu un caz neelucidat de acum 10 ani.
Mi-a placut de Peter, de felul in care povesteste ancheta cu un cinism sincer, oarecum amarat de profesia si viata sa privata.
Hanne este ceea ce in literatura de specialitate numim profiler. Ea colaborase cu politia in urma cu 10 ani la primul caz si este rugata sa revina si sa ajute si in aceasta ancheta. Sufera de dementa precoce si cititorul o s-o indrageasca, fiind simpatica, placuta si practica. Are un trecut amoros cu Peter.
Emma este tanara logodnica a lui Jesper Orre. Ea lucreaza la magazinul de moda pe care barbatul il detine. Cand acesta nu mai vine la intalnire cu ea, Emma decide sa-l gaseasca singura. Abandonata, disperata si insarcinata ea incearca sa dea de urma unui barbat despre care stie numai minciuni si la care nu are acces. Curand realizeaza ca razbunarea, ultima ei arma e exact ce merita Jesper Orre.
Va recomand romanul, este un thriller politist reusit, ancheta este interesanta, cei 3 protagonisti sunt bine construiti, finalul e surprinzator si pur si simplu nu poti lasa cartea din mana.
Romanul ne invata si despre erotomanie, un termen psihiatric pentru situatia in care o persoana crede ca a avut o relatie cu cineva fara sa-l fi cunoscut vreodata in viata reala.
In incheiere atasez cateva citate interesante si pline de invataminte:
"Tihna si linistea i se potriveau mult mai mult decat cicalirea. Dar era o dorinta absurda. Nu-i poti cere prietenei tale sa fie tacuta si goala."
"Mi se pare ca iubirea nu e doar ceea ce simti pentru alta fiinta umana, ci inseamna sa te si vezi prin ochii iubitului. Sa vezi frumusete acolo unde inainte vedeai doar defecte."
"Doar femeile disperate te bat la cap, ma gandesc, iar femeile disperate sunt greu de iubit."
"Ca de fiecare data cand intalneam pe cineva care era putin defect, am simtit nevoia de a incerca sa-l vindec."
"Nu poti sa ai incredere in femei. Nu sunt mai inteligente decat barbatii, dar investesc mai multa energie in efortul de a ne descifra. Asa ca noi, barbatii, ne gasim mereu intr-un dezavantaj auto-indus."
"Dorul e un instrument excelent de masurare a valorii lucrului pe care l-ai pierdut - o valuta la fel de demna de incredere ca oricare alta."
August 9, 2017
"Winter’s chill has descended on Stockholm as police arrive at the scene of a shocking murder. An unidentified woman lies beheaded in a posh suburban home-a brutal crime made all the more disturbing by its uncanny resemblance to an unsolved killing ten years earlier. But this time there’s a suspect: the charismatic and controversial chain-store CEO Jesper Orre, who owns the home but is nowhere to be found."
The murders are gruesome in detail and often difficult to read. But the writing is engaging and intense. Each chapter is written from an alternating character’s POV, an effective device that kept me uncertain almost until the end.
If you love psychological thrillers and don’t mind graphic scenes of violence, you’ll enjoy this amazing crime thriller. The characters are fascinating, perfectly developed, and several draw great sympathy even though flawed. I loved that element of the story; the relationships added a necessary quality, a warmth to this otherwise disturbing mystery. Certain scenes are especially touching and memorable. The ending was perfect, and your thoughts will linger as you read the last page.
The murders are gruesome in detail and often difficult to read. But the writing is engaging and intense. Each chapter is written from an alternating character’s POV, an effective device that kept me uncertain almost until the end.
If you love psychological thrillers and don’t mind graphic scenes of violence, you’ll enjoy this amazing crime thriller. The characters are fascinating, perfectly developed, and several draw great sympathy even though flawed. I loved that element of the story; the relationships added a necessary quality, a warmth to this otherwise disturbing mystery. Certain scenes are especially touching and memorable. The ending was perfect, and your thoughts will linger as you read the last page.
September 8, 2016
Full review on www.novelgossip.com
I’ve really been on a roll lately with picking up excellent thrillers and The Ice Beneath Her is no exception! Full of complicated and interesting characters, intrigue and deception, and a twist that I didn’t entirely see coming, Grebe is an author that is on my radar now.
This book is told from three different perspectives; Peter a police officer, Hanne who consults with the police occasionally, and Emma a young woman who is wrapped up in the murder investigation. Peter and Hanne’s portions are told in the present while Emma’s begin three months prior to the murder. All of them are wounded and struggling with the hardships of life and the crosses they bear. One of these riveting narrators is unreliable, but who? Who is the murdered woman and how does she fit in with these three?
Set in Sweden, the atmosphere was cold, and chilling which lent to the already bleak storyline. This one is gory,gruesome and violent but it is all about a horrific murder. The characters are all very well developed and easy to connect with. Emma is so damaged, she’s faced the loss of both of her parents and events in her past have left her scarred beyond repair. Peter is wry and emotionally stunted and has his own demons from his past that never seem to leave him. Hanne was my favorite character, she’s intelligent and just an altogether interesting woman struggling to come to terms with her frightening new medical diagnosis.
This novel is a tale of betrayal, obsession and pain that is full of dark and dangerous surprises that I didn’t fully see coming. The twist didn’t completely blow me away, mainly because Grebe had me guessing so much throughout the book that by the time the twist is revealed, I had already worked through so many possibilities. However, it was still a very enjoyable read for fans of dark and deadly crime fiction.
I’ve really been on a roll lately with picking up excellent thrillers and The Ice Beneath Her is no exception! Full of complicated and interesting characters, intrigue and deception, and a twist that I didn’t entirely see coming, Grebe is an author that is on my radar now.
This book is told from three different perspectives; Peter a police officer, Hanne who consults with the police occasionally, and Emma a young woman who is wrapped up in the murder investigation. Peter and Hanne’s portions are told in the present while Emma’s begin three months prior to the murder. All of them are wounded and struggling with the hardships of life and the crosses they bear. One of these riveting narrators is unreliable, but who? Who is the murdered woman and how does she fit in with these three?
Set in Sweden, the atmosphere was cold, and chilling which lent to the already bleak storyline. This one is gory,gruesome and violent but it is all about a horrific murder. The characters are all very well developed and easy to connect with. Emma is so damaged, she’s faced the loss of both of her parents and events in her past have left her scarred beyond repair. Peter is wry and emotionally stunted and has his own demons from his past that never seem to leave him. Hanne was my favorite character, she’s intelligent and just an altogether interesting woman struggling to come to terms with her frightening new medical diagnosis.
This novel is a tale of betrayal, obsession and pain that is full of dark and dangerous surprises that I didn’t fully see coming. The twist didn’t completely blow me away, mainly because Grebe had me guessing so much throughout the book that by the time the twist is revealed, I had already worked through so many possibilities. However, it was still a very enjoyable read for fans of dark and deadly crime fiction.
February 2, 2023
O carte pe care am citit-o în câteva ore, care m-a făcut cu capul și m-a prins în mreje încă din primele pagini.
După ce am trecut de schimbul des al perspectivei personajelor, și m-am obișnuit cu personajele și numele lor, a fost perfect.
Cartea nu e foarte alerta, e scrisa în tipicul celor suedeze: dur, cu limbaj explicit al crimelor și destul de detaliat, dar, cumva sa te tina prins în poveste.
Acțiunea merge pe mai multe fronturi: ale detectivului, ale psihologului criminalist si al fetei, și toate cele 3 povesti și ipostaze se împletesc minunat pentru a reda cititorului cât mai frumos povestea.
Mi-a plăcut. Este o carte ce se citește repede și pe care nu o uiți imediat ce ai terminat-o.
Ii dau 4 stele pentru construcția povestii, pentru punctul culminant și pentru scriere.
Dacă aveți chef de o poveste intortocheata, captivanta și cu un final bunicel, o recomand.
După ce am trecut de schimbul des al perspectivei personajelor, și m-am obișnuit cu personajele și numele lor, a fost perfect.
Cartea nu e foarte alerta, e scrisa în tipicul celor suedeze: dur, cu limbaj explicit al crimelor și destul de detaliat, dar, cumva sa te tina prins în poveste.
Acțiunea merge pe mai multe fronturi: ale detectivului, ale psihologului criminalist si al fetei, și toate cele 3 povesti și ipostaze se împletesc minunat pentru a reda cititorului cât mai frumos povestea.
Mi-a plăcut. Este o carte ce se citește repede și pe care nu o uiți imediat ce ai terminat-o.
Ii dau 4 stele pentru construcția povestii, pentru punctul culminant și pentru scriere.
Dacă aveți chef de o poveste intortocheata, captivanta și cu un final bunicel, o recomand.
August 18, 2022
3'5 ⭐
A pesar de intuir por dónde iba la cosa, me ha gustado bastante.
Si siguen publicando esta serie policíaca, la leeré
A pesar de intuir por dónde iba la cosa, me ha gustado bastante.
Si siguen publicando esta serie policíaca, la leeré
August 10, 2016
3.5 stars
This psychological thriller set in Stockholm begins with a gruesome murder that brings together 3 distinct characters who take turns giving us their side of the story.
As DI Peter Lindgren approaches the big 5-0, he struggles with that age old question: is this all there is? Failed personal relationships & constant dealings with the dregs of society have left him battered & tired. The only thing he’s good at is his job. But when a young woman is found beheaded, it recalls a case from the past & he has to wonder. Did he get it wrong?
Emma is a young woman working for minimum wage in a clothing store. Being in a dead end job with a jerk for a boss isn’t exactly fulfilling her dreams. Thank God for Jesper, her fiancé. Sure, it’s complicated as he’s the CEO & they have to keep their relationship secret. Still….he chose her over all the beautiful women clamouring for his attention & he loves her. Doesn’t he?
Hanne has spent years in a loveless marriage to a condescending & controlling husband. She is slowly suffocating & losing her sense of self thanks to a diagnosis of early dementia. She used to be a profiler for the police but her life now revolves around numerous sticky notes that remind her of what she’s forgotten. When they ask for her help with a recent murder, can she deal with a ghost from her past?
Setting is important & the author uses the cold & snow to lend the story a looming, grey atmosphere. The crime happens early & police procedures are a big part of the story. But it’s really about the characters. In alternate chapters we get to know the 3 MC’s as we follow them in flashbacks from their pasts & the present day. Each is well developed & while at times I wanted to yell at Peter to snap out of it, my heart broke for Hanne. The use of 3 narrators & shifting time lines are effective, keeping the reader slightly off balance & uneasy.
We know they will all meet up at some point & suspense starts to build as each of their roles is gradually revealed. All you can do is accept each character’s POV but when discrepancies begin to pop up, who do you believe? You may think you know what’s going on but I’m willing to bet there’s at least one twist at the end that will make your jaw drop.
It’s a stylish, character driven read that will keep you guessing & a great find for lovers of nordic mystery.
This psychological thriller set in Stockholm begins with a gruesome murder that brings together 3 distinct characters who take turns giving us their side of the story.
As DI Peter Lindgren approaches the big 5-0, he struggles with that age old question: is this all there is? Failed personal relationships & constant dealings with the dregs of society have left him battered & tired. The only thing he’s good at is his job. But when a young woman is found beheaded, it recalls a case from the past & he has to wonder. Did he get it wrong?
Emma is a young woman working for minimum wage in a clothing store. Being in a dead end job with a jerk for a boss isn’t exactly fulfilling her dreams. Thank God for Jesper, her fiancé. Sure, it’s complicated as he’s the CEO & they have to keep their relationship secret. Still….he chose her over all the beautiful women clamouring for his attention & he loves her. Doesn’t he?
Hanne has spent years in a loveless marriage to a condescending & controlling husband. She is slowly suffocating & losing her sense of self thanks to a diagnosis of early dementia. She used to be a profiler for the police but her life now revolves around numerous sticky notes that remind her of what she’s forgotten. When they ask for her help with a recent murder, can she deal with a ghost from her past?
Setting is important & the author uses the cold & snow to lend the story a looming, grey atmosphere. The crime happens early & police procedures are a big part of the story. But it’s really about the characters. In alternate chapters we get to know the 3 MC’s as we follow them in flashbacks from their pasts & the present day. Each is well developed & while at times I wanted to yell at Peter to snap out of it, my heart broke for Hanne. The use of 3 narrators & shifting time lines are effective, keeping the reader slightly off balance & uneasy.
We know they will all meet up at some point & suspense starts to build as each of their roles is gradually revealed. All you can do is accept each character’s POV but when discrepancies begin to pop up, who do you believe? You may think you know what’s going on but I’m willing to bet there’s at least one twist at the end that will make your jaw drop.
It’s a stylish, character driven read that will keep you guessing & a great find for lovers of nordic mystery.
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