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Månvind & Hoff #3
The Lost Ones
Mika will do what it takes to make sure there are no more lost ones—and to bring the infamous killer, the Dark Angel, out into the light.
It’s summer in 1880 Stockholm, and the city bakes in the heat—but the heat on twelve-year-old Mika is lifting. After lying low following the dramatic blast at the jail, Mika’s relieved to learn her name is finally cleared. And it’s not a moment too soon—because Detective Hoff has a perplexing case involving the disappearance of a local teen. The girl’s wealthy family wants to make sure things stay quiet. Why would a girl who has everything want to run away? And why is her family so afraid to go public?
Then Tekla reaches out to Mika with a truly chilling discovery at a construction site in the city—a discovery that might hit a little too close to home for Mika. Could it be the work of the Dark Angel?
As the summer heats up, Mika will make some tough choices as she works to uncover these mysteries, including the biggest mystery of her own family. Join Mika and Detective Hoff in this thrilling new installment of the Moonwind Mysteries series!
It’s summer in 1880 Stockholm, and the city bakes in the heat—but the heat on twelve-year-old Mika is lifting. After lying low following the dramatic blast at the jail, Mika’s relieved to learn her name is finally cleared. And it’s not a moment too soon—because Detective Hoff has a perplexing case involving the disappearance of a local teen. The girl’s wealthy family wants to make sure things stay quiet. Why would a girl who has everything want to run away? And why is her family so afraid to go public?
Then Tekla reaches out to Mika with a truly chilling discovery at a construction site in the city—a discovery that might hit a little too close to home for Mika. Could it be the work of the Dark Angel?
As the summer heats up, Mika will make some tough choices as she works to uncover these mysteries, including the biggest mystery of her own family. Join Mika and Detective Hoff in this thrilling new installment of the Moonwind Mysteries series!
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2025
136 people are currently reading
5604 people want to read
About the author
Johan Rundberg
31 books122 followersJohan Rundberg föddes 1973 i Knislinge i Skåne, men bosatte sig som vuxen i Stockholm. Han upptäckte glädjen i att skriva och läsa under tidiga skolår, och var en flitig biblioteksbesökare. Så småningom läste han litteraturvetenskap och tv-produktion på universitetet. Det ledde honom till jobb på SVT och MTG. Från sin utbildningstid hade han även erfarenhet av att jobba med bildsatta manus. Därifrån hämtade han inspiration till att också prova att göra bilderböcker.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
June 8, 2023
Fantastisk avslutning i serien Månvind & Hoff. Johan Rundberg har skapat en beroendeframkallande serie som får läsaren att törsta efter MER MER MER.
En flicka från en överklassfamilj är försvunnen och Valdemar Hoff tar återigen hjälp av barnhemsbarnet Mika Månvind. Utredningen kretsar kring en hög med barnskelett som dyker upp på en byggarbetsplats. Hur har de hamnat där? Och vem är skyldig?
Under tiden de utreder fallet stöter Mika på ledtrådar om sitt förflutna. Kommer hon äntligen få veta vem hon är?
En flicka från en överklassfamilj är försvunnen och Valdemar Hoff tar återigen hjälp av barnhemsbarnet Mika Månvind. Utredningen kretsar kring en hög med barnskelett som dyker upp på en byggarbetsplats. Hur har de hamnat där? Och vem är skyldig?
Under tiden de utreder fallet stöter Mika på ledtrådar om sitt förflutna. Kommer hon äntligen få veta vem hon är?
August 17, 2024
ARC | Quality, but dark | I've been reading this series since the first book was translated, so I knew going into this entry that the writing would be excellent. This has a different translator from the first two, but it's been done very well and there's no sense of a change in voice. I don't recall Amelia having been referred to as a "houseparent" before, and the phrase was a little strange, but that minor note and one line that misstates the reason Mika was imprisoned in the previous book were the only differences. Readers will need to have read the other books, this is not a series that can be read out of order. I would caution caregivers and educators to know the young person you give this one to, don't just check the age range and assume it'll be fine. I would have had no troubles with the themes as a child, but some young readers will; this is a Swedish book, and Nordic Noir is not just present in adult novels. The series has always discussed serial killers, poverty, starvation, lots of difficult topics, and this entry adds large-scale murder of newborn babies in order to preserve social status. Our protagonist is a mature 12, but if your young reader is not ready to read about unplanned pregnancy and dozens of baby skeletons, put this one on the back burner for another year. It's definitely worth the read, just be prepared. At any rate, just like the rest of the series, the writing is descriptive and well-paced, the book reads quickly and retains the attention, and the characters feel like real people. Two more entries have been released in Sweden, hopefully the translations will continue, as I'm eager to see where the story goes next.
ARC provided free of charge, which did not impact my review.
ARC provided free of charge, which did not impact my review.
November 1, 2025
When Mika Moonwind was left at the Stockholm children’s home as an infant, there was little hope she would ever discover the truth of her birth. Now 15, she and Vladamear are tasked with finding a missing girl. Simultaneously, and seemingly without connection, Mika is shown a an underground pile of bones on a construction site in Stockholm. Threads from all three narratives weave together in a hair-raising and dangerous reveal.
It’s been a long time since I’ve sobbed at the end of a book, yet here we sit with dried mucus on my face. I really liked the first two books in this series but this one blew the breath right out of me. The crime is horrifying and totally believable. The grit of the evil is rarely seen even in adult thrillers and yet it is tempered without dummying it down for a middle-grade audience. With so many bloated books on the shelves it is impressive what Rundburg can do in a mere 200 pages.
If I were on the Batchelder Committee, this would be a frontrunner. Goodreads tells me there are two more yet to be put into English. I can’t wait.
FYI, all three English titles can be found on KU.
It’s been a long time since I’ve sobbed at the end of a book, yet here we sit with dried mucus on my face. I really liked the first two books in this series but this one blew the breath right out of me. The crime is horrifying and totally believable. The grit of the evil is rarely seen even in adult thrillers and yet it is tempered without dummying it down for a middle-grade audience. With so many bloated books on the shelves it is impressive what Rundburg can do in a mere 200 pages.
If I were on the Batchelder Committee, this would be a frontrunner. Goodreads tells me there are two more yet to be put into English. I can’t wait.
FYI, all three English titles can be found on KU.
January 13, 2025
The Lost Ones is book three in a fantastic series. When I say I was really excited to get approved for this arc curtesy of NetGalley and Amazon Crossing Kids, it was an understatement. As a mom of a young adult that still adores a good mystery, this has been a series we have enjoyed together and I am excited for her to read the latest as well.
The book was just as twisty, dark, and captivating as I expected. Although I cannot reveal too much for spoilers sakes, the author does an amazing job of bringing characters and situations to life and making you care deeply. Even to the point that I wanted to throw my kindle during a certain scene and chapter ending. This book deals with very dark subject matter, so I would be cautious of that when recommending it to the intended audience, but it is such a great book and series. I cannot wait to see what is to come for Mika Moonwind.
The book was just as twisty, dark, and captivating as I expected. Although I cannot reveal too much for spoilers sakes, the author does an amazing job of bringing characters and situations to life and making you care deeply. Even to the point that I wanted to throw my kindle during a certain scene and chapter ending. This book deals with very dark subject matter, so I would be cautious of that when recommending it to the intended audience, but it is such a great book and series. I cannot wait to see what is to come for Mika Moonwind.
January 15, 2025
This was the much anticipated third book in a series that has been translated from the Swedish author. It is set in 1880 in Stockholm, Sweden. Though the book is considered to be a Young Adult mystery, and "Nordic Noir", there is nothing tame in this story. It does not restrain itself from the harsh and violent side of the dark themes. Though the protagonist is only 12 years old, the harsh environment she has grown up in forced her to take on adult responsibilities and realities. Her survival skills have led her to an acute sense of observation, crime, and investigation. I hope others will disregard the "Young Adult" designation and discover this great little series. I can envision the series printed as one adult novel.
The first book was "The Night Raven" and the second book was "The Queen of Thieves"
The first book was "The Night Raven" and the second book was "The Queen of Thieves"
July 13, 2023
Det här är en bokserie som bara blir mer och mer spännande för varje bok! Jag fortsätter att läsa boken och lyssnar även på den för Olof Wretlings inläsning vilket förhöjer läsupplevelsen enormt. Dödsängeln känns läskigare och mer vuxen då den till stor del handlar om en änglamakerska som får betalt för att ta kål på oönskade barn. Här får Mika veta mer om var hon kommer ifrån och hennes föräldrar, även om hon redan har en fadersfigur i och med Valdemar. Det här skulle bli en trilogi, men tack och lov så fortsätter berättelsen även efter denna. Rekommenderas!
December 10, 2021
❥ Recension
Del 3 i serien om Månvind & Hoff.
Läsålder 9-12 år. Eller 33!
Ok, såhär är det. Detta är hands down den absolut bästa svenska barnboksserie jag har läst (och jag har läst MÅNGA!). Att jag som vuxen uppslukas så fullständigt av en berättelse riktad till barn säger en del. Johan Rundberg är en absolut fantastisk författare och en ordets magiker. Hans språk och beskrivningar är så levande, karaktärerna perfekt porträtterade och miljöerna är filmiska. När jag läser befinner jag mig verkligen i 1800-talets skitiga Stockholm och jag rycks med i den pulshöjande spänningen. Icke att glömma humorn! Jag skrattade högt flera gånger.
Det är med värme i bröstet jag återigen kliver in i Mikas verklighet. Jag vill vara polare med henne och Valdemar! Älskar när dom slänger käft med varandra! Bästa radarparet! Genuina, sympatiska, levande och intressanta.
De tre böckerna hör samman, det går en röd tråd och berättelsen knyts ihop snyggt. Men den lämnar mig även med en cliff hanger så jag hoppas verkligen det kommer en fjärde bok!? Snälla, det måste komma fler! Håller alla tummar och tår.
Boken får 🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲 av 5.
Del 3 i serien om Månvind & Hoff.
Läsålder 9-12 år. Eller 33!
Ok, såhär är det. Detta är hands down den absolut bästa svenska barnboksserie jag har läst (och jag har läst MÅNGA!). Att jag som vuxen uppslukas så fullständigt av en berättelse riktad till barn säger en del. Johan Rundberg är en absolut fantastisk författare och en ordets magiker. Hans språk och beskrivningar är så levande, karaktärerna perfekt porträtterade och miljöerna är filmiska. När jag läser befinner jag mig verkligen i 1800-talets skitiga Stockholm och jag rycks med i den pulshöjande spänningen. Icke att glömma humorn! Jag skrattade högt flera gånger.
Det är med värme i bröstet jag återigen kliver in i Mikas verklighet. Jag vill vara polare med henne och Valdemar! Älskar när dom slänger käft med varandra! Bästa radarparet! Genuina, sympatiska, levande och intressanta.
De tre böckerna hör samman, det går en röd tråd och berättelsen knyts ihop snyggt. Men den lämnar mig även med en cliff hanger så jag hoppas verkligen det kommer en fjärde bok!? Snälla, det måste komma fler! Håller alla tummar och tår.
Boken får 🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲 av 5.
January 28, 2022
Dödsängeln är den tredje och sista boken i Månvind & Hoff trilogin och den var en otroligt bra avslutning på trilogin! Jag läste denna direkt efter andra boken och jag önskar verkligen att det fanns fler böcker. Jag tror denna är min favorit i serien, den var bara så bra.
Språket fortsätter vara så fullt av levande beskrivningar och författaren har verkligen skapat en beroendeframkallande serie där man som läsare bara slukas in i världen och kan inte sluta läsa!
Handlingen var fartfylld och spännande och det var så roligt att få läsa mer om Mika och hennes äventyr.
Johan Rundborg kan verkligen skriva och jag hoppas så att han kommer skriva mer, och kanske för vuxna? Jag behöver mer!
Språket fortsätter vara så fullt av levande beskrivningar och författaren har verkligen skapat en beroendeframkallande serie där man som läsare bara slukas in i världen och kan inte sluta läsa!
Handlingen var fartfylld och spännande och det var så roligt att få läsa mer om Mika och hennes äventyr.
Johan Rundborg kan verkligen skriva och jag hoppas så att han kommer skriva mer, och kanske för vuxna? Jag behöver mer!
January 28, 2025
This was a much darker instalment, and thoroughly compelling, with great character moments for Mika and for Hoff, whose drinking and loneliness are finally explained.
During the heat of summer, and Mika can finally opening walk the streets again, after her name is cleared from the events in book two. Despite orphanage manager Amelia's reluctance for Mika to continue helping Hoff, he ropes Mika into another case: a young, wealthy teen is missing. The girl's family want to keep everything hushed about the girl and the investigation, but the more Mika digs, the more she finds out about why the girl has disappeared, as well as surprising connections to both baby Nora and Mika herself.
There have long been rumours circulating quietly about the city about a dangerous person called the Dark Angel who is said to take babies, particularly unwanted babies of the wealthy. Mika knows that if she is to find the missing teen, but also safeguard Nora and herself, she's going to have to make some bold and very dangerous choices, and get the help of not only Hoff, but also of Tekla and her fellow bricklayers/thieves (whom we met in books one and two).
Mika discovers some really horrifying things this time around, as well as uncovering a tragedy that has marked Hoff's life indelibly. Mika's life changes irrevocably also, so that by the end of this story she's on a new and different trajectory. I cannot wait to find out what is next for this determined, enterprising and smart girl, and her partner in detecting, Hoff.
I both listened and read this story, and greatly enjoyed voice actor Nina Yndis' work in this entry. I've liked her work since book one of this series. Mika's determination and toughness comes through well in Yndis' voice, and Hoff's big, loud presence, but also grieving heart, which is finally revealed in this entry.
I look forward to reading about more of this pair's detective exploits in the next entry in this enjoyable series.
Thank you to Netgalley and to AmazonCrossing and Brilliance Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
During the heat of summer, and Mika can finally opening walk the streets again, after her name is cleared from the events in book two. Despite orphanage manager Amelia's reluctance for Mika to continue helping Hoff, he ropes Mika into another case: a young, wealthy teen is missing. The girl's family want to keep everything hushed about the girl and the investigation, but the more Mika digs, the more she finds out about why the girl has disappeared, as well as surprising connections to both baby Nora and Mika herself.
There have long been rumours circulating quietly about the city about a dangerous person called the Dark Angel who is said to take babies, particularly unwanted babies of the wealthy. Mika knows that if she is to find the missing teen, but also safeguard Nora and herself, she's going to have to make some bold and very dangerous choices, and get the help of not only Hoff, but also of Tekla and her fellow bricklayers/thieves (whom we met in books one and two).
Mika discovers some really horrifying things this time around, as well as uncovering a tragedy that has marked Hoff's life indelibly. Mika's life changes irrevocably also, so that by the end of this story she's on a new and different trajectory. I cannot wait to find out what is next for this determined, enterprising and smart girl, and her partner in detecting, Hoff.
I both listened and read this story, and greatly enjoyed voice actor Nina Yndis' work in this entry. I've liked her work since book one of this series. Mika's determination and toughness comes through well in Yndis' voice, and Hoff's big, loud presence, but also grieving heart, which is finally revealed in this entry.
I look forward to reading about more of this pair's detective exploits in the next entry in this enjoyable series.
Thank you to Netgalley and to AmazonCrossing and Brilliance Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
March 7, 2025
Thank you Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for allowing me to read and review The Lost Ones by Johan Rundberg on NetGalley.
Published: 01/07/25
Narrated by Nina Yndis
Star: 4
Book three in The Moonwind Mysteries (Middle Grade). I have read the series in order and would recommend new readers to do the same. There are mostly subtle but significant character details given that move the story along.
Book three carried its own; however was a tad slower throughout than I would have preferred. I'm not harping on this, I'm not close to the target age group. I have enjoyed each book developing into a good series that I can see myself gifting.
The times were cruel for orphaned children and needs to be remembered when encouraging others to read. The synopsis is clear. I am looking forward to book four.
The narrator does a fantastic job. The story and she compliment one another.
Published: 01/07/25
Narrated by Nina Yndis
Star: 4
Book three in The Moonwind Mysteries (Middle Grade). I have read the series in order and would recommend new readers to do the same. There are mostly subtle but significant character details given that move the story along.
Book three carried its own; however was a tad slower throughout than I would have preferred. I'm not harping on this, I'm not close to the target age group. I have enjoyed each book developing into a good series that I can see myself gifting.
The times were cruel for orphaned children and needs to be remembered when encouraging others to read. The synopsis is clear. I am looking forward to book four.
The narrator does a fantastic job. The story and she compliment one another.
March 28, 2025
Really enjoyed the conclusion to this series! I really love Mika’s adventures and her relationship with Valdemar. I wish I could find out more about the duo, but I liked where it concluded and what it left up to the imagination for Mika’s life.
February 3, 2025
FIRE. MOONWIND >>>>>>>>
January 14, 2025
audiobook/ebook
January 15, 2025
Another good read in this series. Some secrets are brought to light at the end of this story. The plot centers around a 15-year-old girl whose parents report as missing. Mika suspects that they aren't telling the whole story. Meanwhile, Tekla and her gang find some disturbing evidence in a recently dug hole at a construction site. What follows is a lot of questions whose answers can be very dangerous. Mika and Constable Hoff are in pursuit of the Dark Angel. I have found out that there are two more books in this series, but they have yet to be translated into English. I hope they will be done eventually.
November 24, 2021
Mycket spännande och välskrivet. Slutet knöt ihop säcken på ett lite väl deppigt sätt, eller det lämnades öppet för tolkning i alla fall, vilket jag inte förväntar mig av en bok riktad till 9-12 år. Det är positivt! Tror jag i alla fall, men känns som att det kan komma delade meningar på den fronten. I övrigt är det en fartfylld och smart intrig med en operfekt, älskvärd och starkt skriven huvudkaraktär. Innehållet tog ett nytt kliv rakt åt det mörkare hållet, jag har svårt att se den här serien få en TV-serie eller dylikt, i skrift går det bra, men jag tror det blir för otäckt för demografin med teman som uppkommer i den här boken--men å andra sidan tenderar vuxna att underskatta barn, en tolvåring skulle nog finna det lite mysrysigt med den här sorterns "nordic-noir light" även filmatiserat. Oavsett så är det en bra serie som rekommenderas till äldre mellanstadiebarn som gillar lite läskigare mysterium!
December 15, 2021
Åh! Denna barnboksserie är verkligen underbar.
Detta är sista delen. Eller? Jag hoppas på mer!
Det är Stockholm, det är 1800-tal. Klasskillnader, fattigdom, svält, barnarbete, döda kroppar.
Det här är inte en serie för de räddhågsna men SÅ bra skrivet. Sitter som vuxen och får verkligen tillbaka den där känslan när man själv gick i mellanstadiet och slukade böcker tills det började rycka spastiskt i ögonlocket (en helt sann anekdot, haha).
Mika bor och jobbar på barnhemmet. Hon har i de tidigare böckerna jobbar tillsammans med konstapeln Valdemar Hoff, så blir det även i denna bok.
Mika blir visad något väldigt makabert i jorden runt den stora byggarbetsplats som inte ligger långt från barnhemmet. De har alla hört rykten om svarta ängeln, men att ryktena i verkligheten inte bara är sanna utan ännu värre gör Mika både beslutsam och nyfiken. Men det finns många människor som inte vill att identiteten på svarta ängeln röjs, speciellt de rika och mäktiga...
Detta är sista delen. Eller? Jag hoppas på mer!
Det är Stockholm, det är 1800-tal. Klasskillnader, fattigdom, svält, barnarbete, döda kroppar.
Det här är inte en serie för de räddhågsna men SÅ bra skrivet. Sitter som vuxen och får verkligen tillbaka den där känslan när man själv gick i mellanstadiet och slukade böcker tills det började rycka spastiskt i ögonlocket (en helt sann anekdot, haha).
Mika bor och jobbar på barnhemmet. Hon har i de tidigare böckerna jobbar tillsammans med konstapeln Valdemar Hoff, så blir det även i denna bok.
Mika blir visad något väldigt makabert i jorden runt den stora byggarbetsplats som inte ligger långt från barnhemmet. De har alla hört rykten om svarta ängeln, men att ryktena i verkligheten inte bara är sanna utan ännu värre gör Mika både beslutsam och nyfiken. Men det finns många människor som inte vill att identiteten på svarta ängeln röjs, speciellt de rika och mäktiga...
December 9, 2021
Handlingen trappas upp ytterligare i den tredje delen om "Månvind & Hoff", "Dödsängeln". Mika försöker hålla en låg profil och ta hand om barnhemmet efter rymningen från fängelset i "Tjuvdrottningen" men det dröjer inte länge tills Konstapel Valdemar Hoff behöver Mikas hjälp igen.
En flicka från en förmögen familj verkar vara försvunnen och förtiosex oidentifierade barnskelett hittas i staden. Samtidigt fortsätter namnet "Den svarta ängeln" dyka upp för Mika och Valdemar.
Den tredje delen knyter ihop de lösa trådarna från tidigare böcker och går djupare in i Mikas frågetecken om sin egen bakgrund.
En väldigt spännande avslutning på triologin!
En flicka från en förmögen familj verkar vara försvunnen och förtiosex oidentifierade barnskelett hittas i staden. Samtidigt fortsätter namnet "Den svarta ängeln" dyka upp för Mika och Valdemar.
Den tredje delen knyter ihop de lösa trådarna från tidigare böcker och går djupare in i Mikas frågetecken om sin egen bakgrund.
En väldigt spännande avslutning på triologin!
December 13, 2021
Fantastisk avslutning i serien Månvind & Hoff. Johan Rundberg har skapat en beroendeframkallande serie som får läsaren att törsta efter MER MER MER.
En flicka från en överklassfamilj är försvunnen och Valdemar Hoff tar återigen hjälp av barnhemsbarnet Mika Månvind. Utredningen kretsar kring en hög med barnskelett som dyker upp på en byggarbetsplats. Hur har de hamnat där? Och vem är skyldig?
Under tiden de utreder fallet stöter Mika på ledtrådar om sitt förflutna. Kommer hon äntligen få veta vem hon är?
En flicka från en överklassfamilj är försvunnen och Valdemar Hoff tar återigen hjälp av barnhemsbarnet Mika Månvind. Utredningen kretsar kring en hög med barnskelett som dyker upp på en byggarbetsplats. Hur har de hamnat där? Och vem är skyldig?
Under tiden de utreder fallet stöter Mika på ledtrådar om sitt förflutna. Kommer hon äntligen få veta vem hon är?
February 18, 2022
Mörk, fängslande och ett fantastiskt avslut på Mikas äventyr. En bra knut på allt tillkom. Nora fick sitt slut, Mika fick sina svar och löste ett stort mysterium, Valdemar fick en kompanjon och barnen på allmänna barnhemmet fick sin plats i världen.
February 23, 2024
Läst för jobbet. Bra "avslutning" på ursprungstrilogin. Vet att det finns en fortsättning men avslutar mitt lyssnade av denna serie här. Välskrivet och spännande rakt igenom. Stort plus att flickor/kvinnor gestaltas på många olika sätt. Mycket bra serie!
December 26, 2021
Så gripande och bra skriven. Längtar redan efter en fortsättning. För det måste det ju bara bli!
January 1, 2022
Denna serien var riktigt bra! Speciellt den sista boken
January 4, 2022
Jättebrabra slut på en jättebra trilogi. Sista boken gör hela serien rättvisa och själva handlingen i boken är seriös och pålitlig.
June 17, 2022
Tredje delen var mer som den första, nu hände det saker hela tiden och enligt mig var det mer av konstapel Hoff. Det gillade jag. Det finns visst en fjärde del, den ska jag spana efter.
August 6, 2022
Älskar den här serien och är så glad att det finns en fjärde bok!
June 21, 2023
4.5/5 ? Inte fullt lika spännande som tidigare böcker men satan vilket slut!! Ska hoppa på nästa bok ASAP
January 13, 2025
This is, hands down, one of the best children's - middle grade series I have ever read. Even now, days later, I am struggling to put my thoughts together to write a coherent review of this really fantastic read. I loved it so much and even now, I am still struggling with ALL. THE. FEELS. that this book gave me.
I think everyone [children included] should be reading books in translation [I really regret that I came into reading translations so late in my reading], and I absolutely believe that everyone should read about a time-frame outside their own; this series checks both of those boxes and has the plus of being such a fantastic read as well [winner, winner].
Mika is such a great MC - you often forget that she is 12 [1880's Sweden, and growing up in a public children's home makes one grow up very quickly] and one cannot help but admire her and her tenacity and strength [her ability to blend in and to think quick on her feet really adds to the story], and much like Constable Hoff, I am drawn to her over and over again.
Constable Hoff is a real treasure. He has grown immensely in these three books [and even more so in this book] and I love how his and Mika's relationship has grown - it is filled with deep respect and understanding [and deep, deep caring, as we find out in this book; THAT was a real moment of holding ones breath for sure!!] and it has been such a joy to watch it all unfold.
This book was excellent [in case you didn't pick up on that LOL]. The mystery [which has been unfolding from Book 1], the setting [the more I learn about public children's home in 1880 Stockholm, the more I am grateful I didn't live in that time], even the results of diving even deeper into the mystery and all that happens afterward [so. much. ugly. crying.]. I was left, just sitting in my feels, and wishing I could read it again for the first time.
While I am hoping there are more books in this series [because THAT ending!!], this was so well-done that if this is the end, while being sad, I will be satisfied and can use my imagination enough to dream up the results I would love to see. *WINK*
Nina Yndis is a fantastic narrator and I love how she brings Mika and Co. to life. Her narration is absolutely in the top 5 things I love about this series and I highly recommend experiencing these books this way - you will not be sorry.
Thank you to NetGalley, Johan Rundberg, Eva Apelquist - Translator, Nina Yndis - Narrator, Amazon Crossings/Amazon Crossings Kids, and Brilliance Publishing/Brilliance Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.
I think everyone [children included] should be reading books in translation [I really regret that I came into reading translations so late in my reading], and I absolutely believe that everyone should read about a time-frame outside their own; this series checks both of those boxes and has the plus of being such a fantastic read as well [winner, winner].
Mika is such a great MC - you often forget that she is 12 [1880's Sweden, and growing up in a public children's home makes one grow up very quickly] and one cannot help but admire her and her tenacity and strength [her ability to blend in and to think quick on her feet really adds to the story], and much like Constable Hoff, I am drawn to her over and over again.
Constable Hoff is a real treasure. He has grown immensely in these three books [and even more so in this book] and I love how his and Mika's relationship has grown - it is filled with deep respect and understanding [and deep, deep caring, as we find out in this book; THAT was a real moment of holding ones breath for sure!!] and it has been such a joy to watch it all unfold.
This book was excellent [in case you didn't pick up on that LOL]. The mystery [which has been unfolding from Book 1], the setting [the more I learn about public children's home in 1880 Stockholm, the more I am grateful I didn't live in that time], even the results of diving even deeper into the mystery and all that happens afterward [so. much. ugly. crying.]. I was left, just sitting in my feels, and wishing I could read it again for the first time.
While I am hoping there are more books in this series [because THAT ending!!], this was so well-done that if this is the end, while being sad, I will be satisfied and can use my imagination enough to dream up the results I would love to see. *WINK*
Nina Yndis is a fantastic narrator and I love how she brings Mika and Co. to life. Her narration is absolutely in the top 5 things I love about this series and I highly recommend experiencing these books this way - you will not be sorry.
Thank you to NetGalley, Johan Rundberg, Eva Apelquist - Translator, Nina Yndis - Narrator, Amazon Crossings/Amazon Crossings Kids, and Brilliance Publishing/Brilliance Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2025
Book Review: The Lost Ones by Johan Rundberg
Rating: 4 Stars
I recently dove back into the gripping world of The Lost Ones, the latest installment in the Moonwind Mysteries series by Johan Rundberg, and it did not disappoint! Set in the sweltering summer of 1880 Stockholm, the story follows twelve-year-old Mika as she navigates her way through a web of mysteries and danger. With her name finally cleared after the explosive events at the jail, Mika is ready to take on the challenge of a new case that involves a missing local girl from a wealthy family. The plot thickens when her friend Tekla uncovers some unsettling evidence at a construction site, hinting at the notorious killer known as the Dark Angel. Mika is determined to get to the bottom of it all, even if it means unraveling some of her own family's secrets along the way.
First off, can we just take a moment to appreciate the stunning cover? It perfectly captures the charm and intrigue that this series embodies. Rundberg has a knack for creating an enjoyable reading experience, with characters that feel real and relatable. This book was no exception; I found myself drawn into Mika's world, cheering her on as she made tough decisions and sought answers that could potentially put her in harm's way.
As the mystery unfolds, we see Mika’s relentless pursuit of the truth, especially when it comes to the missing girl whose circumstances seem far too suspicious. The dynamics between Mika, Detective Hoff, and the other characters add depth to the story, making it not just another mystery but a tale about friendship, family, and courage. Rundberg skillfully weaves tension throughout the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with every twist and turn.
In conclusion, The Lost Ones is an engaging read that combines mystery with richly developed characters and historical elements. It's a delightful addition to what has already proven to be a charming series. I finished the story eager for what’s next, especially with some secrets revealed at the end that hint at even deeper mysteries to come. If you’re looking for a captivating read filled with suspense and heart, I highly recommend picking this one up!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 4 Stars
I recently dove back into the gripping world of The Lost Ones, the latest installment in the Moonwind Mysteries series by Johan Rundberg, and it did not disappoint! Set in the sweltering summer of 1880 Stockholm, the story follows twelve-year-old Mika as she navigates her way through a web of mysteries and danger. With her name finally cleared after the explosive events at the jail, Mika is ready to take on the challenge of a new case that involves a missing local girl from a wealthy family. The plot thickens when her friend Tekla uncovers some unsettling evidence at a construction site, hinting at the notorious killer known as the Dark Angel. Mika is determined to get to the bottom of it all, even if it means unraveling some of her own family's secrets along the way.
First off, can we just take a moment to appreciate the stunning cover? It perfectly captures the charm and intrigue that this series embodies. Rundberg has a knack for creating an enjoyable reading experience, with characters that feel real and relatable. This book was no exception; I found myself drawn into Mika's world, cheering her on as she made tough decisions and sought answers that could potentially put her in harm's way.
As the mystery unfolds, we see Mika’s relentless pursuit of the truth, especially when it comes to the missing girl whose circumstances seem far too suspicious. The dynamics between Mika, Detective Hoff, and the other characters add depth to the story, making it not just another mystery but a tale about friendship, family, and courage. Rundberg skillfully weaves tension throughout the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with every twist and turn.
In conclusion, The Lost Ones is an engaging read that combines mystery with richly developed characters and historical elements. It's a delightful addition to what has already proven to be a charming series. I finished the story eager for what’s next, especially with some secrets revealed at the end that hint at even deeper mysteries to come. If you’re looking for a captivating read filled with suspense and heart, I highly recommend picking this one up!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
December 7, 2024
** “If you turn over a rock that’s been in the same spot for many years, you will find living creatures beneath it. Some will shy away from the light, scurry on to the next dark hole to hide in. And some will attack. Be careful the rocks you turn over.” **
Originally written in Swedish and translated by Eva Apelqvist, Johan Rundberg’s “The Lost Ones” is an intriguing mystery for young readers with a plucky heroine.
Mika still helps to oversee the other orphaned children living at the Public Children’s Home in Stockholm. Because she has extremely strong powers of observation, she still is also working with Constable Valdemar Hoff to solve difficult cases.
Valdemar brings her into his latest case, being hired by the Douglas family to search for their missing daughter Beatrice. What Mika doesn’t realize is the connection this case has to her unknown story and origins. Will she finally find out who her parents are, and just who and what is the enigmatic and evil Dark Angel?
As usual, Rundberg does an incredible job of creating a plot filled with lots of suspense and harrowing moments, as well as developing intriguing characters, including the spunky and daring Mika and the bumbling but lovable Valdemar. He also offers great themes, like we are all important and worth fighting for; we can dig deep and find the strength we need to get through anything; “even the unthinkable can become a habit”; the power of loyalty and friendship; and you can’t protect anyone by hiding the truth.
Fans of characters like Nancy Drew and Young Sherlock and Enola Holmes will love “The Lost Ones,” which is due out Jan. 7. One word: the book is supposed to be for children ages 10 to 14, but I really would not recommend it for those on the younger end of the scale … perhaps starting at 12 or 13, as there are a couple of mild curse words and some mature themes. Adults will also enjoy this series, which should be read in order.
Five stars out of five.
Amazon Crossing Kids provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
Originally written in Swedish and translated by Eva Apelqvist, Johan Rundberg’s “The Lost Ones” is an intriguing mystery for young readers with a plucky heroine.
Mika still helps to oversee the other orphaned children living at the Public Children’s Home in Stockholm. Because she has extremely strong powers of observation, she still is also working with Constable Valdemar Hoff to solve difficult cases.
Valdemar brings her into his latest case, being hired by the Douglas family to search for their missing daughter Beatrice. What Mika doesn’t realize is the connection this case has to her unknown story and origins. Will she finally find out who her parents are, and just who and what is the enigmatic and evil Dark Angel?
As usual, Rundberg does an incredible job of creating a plot filled with lots of suspense and harrowing moments, as well as developing intriguing characters, including the spunky and daring Mika and the bumbling but lovable Valdemar. He also offers great themes, like we are all important and worth fighting for; we can dig deep and find the strength we need to get through anything; “even the unthinkable can become a habit”; the power of loyalty and friendship; and you can’t protect anyone by hiding the truth.
Fans of characters like Nancy Drew and Young Sherlock and Enola Holmes will love “The Lost Ones,” which is due out Jan. 7. One word: the book is supposed to be for children ages 10 to 14, but I really would not recommend it for those on the younger end of the scale … perhaps starting at 12 or 13, as there are a couple of mild curse words and some mature themes. Adults will also enjoy this series, which should be read in order.
Five stars out of five.
Amazon Crossing Kids provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
January 2, 2025
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Lost Ones is the third Moonwind mystery, part of a very well written YA historical mystery series by Johan Rundberg. Originally published in 2023 in Swedish, this English language translation is due out 7th Jan 2025 from Amazon on their Children's imprint. It's 222 pages and will be available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free, along with the previous books in the series.
Set in the summer of 1880 in Stockholm, Mika's name is finally cleared after the occurrences from books 1 and 2. She has honed her powers of observation as a survival skill. She's soon helping Detective Hoff with his investigation and is determined to bring the notorious serial killer the Dark Angel to ground. The partnership is -very- well written and sensitively handled. He doesn't ignore or denigrate her contributions, and they develop a good working relationship despite the age difference.
It's aimed at young readers (Lexile 680, grades ~5-9), but there are many difficult themes in the book, threatened and actual violence, physical abuse and starvation of vulnerable children, extremely austere living standards for the poor of the period, working conditions for the lower classes (including/especially children). Some parts are scary for sensitive readers. The denouement and resolution are exciting and satisfying. There are currently three books released in English in the series, with 5 books extant in the original Swedish.
The English translation work by Eva Apelqvist is well rendered and seamless. It flows very well and is accessible and doesn't get in the way of the story at all. This is a different translator from the first two volumes, but it's not noticeable (which is, after all, the point).
Four and a half stars. Possibly too dark for a younger middle grade audience (school library acquisitions folk should read it before ordering). It would make a good choice for public library acquisition, for home use, or for YA readers who enjoy more dire/suspenseful/tragic mysteries.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Lost Ones is the third Moonwind mystery, part of a very well written YA historical mystery series by Johan Rundberg. Originally published in 2023 in Swedish, this English language translation is due out 7th Jan 2025 from Amazon on their Children's imprint. It's 222 pages and will be available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free, along with the previous books in the series.
Set in the summer of 1880 in Stockholm, Mika's name is finally cleared after the occurrences from books 1 and 2. She has honed her powers of observation as a survival skill. She's soon helping Detective Hoff with his investigation and is determined to bring the notorious serial killer the Dark Angel to ground. The partnership is -very- well written and sensitively handled. He doesn't ignore or denigrate her contributions, and they develop a good working relationship despite the age difference.
It's aimed at young readers (Lexile 680, grades ~5-9), but there are many difficult themes in the book, threatened and actual violence, physical abuse and starvation of vulnerable children, extremely austere living standards for the poor of the period, working conditions for the lower classes (including/especially children). Some parts are scary for sensitive readers. The denouement and resolution are exciting and satisfying. There are currently three books released in English in the series, with 5 books extant in the original Swedish.
The English translation work by Eva Apelqvist is well rendered and seamless. It flows very well and is accessible and doesn't get in the way of the story at all. This is a different translator from the first two volumes, but it's not noticeable (which is, after all, the point).
Four and a half stars. Possibly too dark for a younger middle grade audience (school library acquisitions folk should read it before ordering). It would make a good choice for public library acquisition, for home use, or for YA readers who enjoy more dire/suspenseful/tragic mysteries.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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