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The Lost House
In Melissa Larsen's The Lost House comes the mesmerizing story of a young woman with a haunting past who returns to her ancestral home in Iceland to investigate a gruesome murder in her family.
Forty years ago, a young woman and her infant daughter were found buried in the cold Icelandic snow, lying together as peacefully as though sleeping. Except the mother’s throat had been slashed and the infant drowned. The case was never solved. There were no arrests, no conviction. Just a suspicion turned into a the husband did it. When he took his son and fled halfway across the world to California, it was proof enough of his guilt.
Now, nearly half a century later and a year after his death, his granddaughter, Agnes, is ready to clear her grandfather’s name once and for all. Still recovering from his death and a devastating injury, Agnes wants nothing more than an excuse to escape the shambles of her once-stable life—which is why she so readily accepts true crime expert Nora Carver’s invitation to be interviewed for her popular podcast. Agnes packs a bag and hops on a last-minute flight to the remote town of Bifröst, Iceland, where Nora is staying, where Agnes’s father grew up, and where, supposedly, her grandfather slaughtered his wife and infant daughter.
Is it merely coincidence that a local girl goes missing the very same weekend Agnes arrives? Suddenly, Agnes and Nora’s investigation is turned upside down, and everyone in the small Icelandic town is once again a suspect. Seeking to unearth old and new truths alike, Agnes finds herself drawn into a web of secrets that threaten the redemption she is hell-bent on delivering, and even her life—discovering how far a person will go to protect their family, their safety, and their secrets.
Set against an unforgiving Icelandic winter landscape, The Lost House is a chilling and razor-sharp thriller packed with jaw-dropping twists that will leave you breathless.
Forty years ago, a young woman and her infant daughter were found buried in the cold Icelandic snow, lying together as peacefully as though sleeping. Except the mother’s throat had been slashed and the infant drowned. The case was never solved. There were no arrests, no conviction. Just a suspicion turned into a the husband did it. When he took his son and fled halfway across the world to California, it was proof enough of his guilt.
Now, nearly half a century later and a year after his death, his granddaughter, Agnes, is ready to clear her grandfather’s name once and for all. Still recovering from his death and a devastating injury, Agnes wants nothing more than an excuse to escape the shambles of her once-stable life—which is why she so readily accepts true crime expert Nora Carver’s invitation to be interviewed for her popular podcast. Agnes packs a bag and hops on a last-minute flight to the remote town of Bifröst, Iceland, where Nora is staying, where Agnes’s father grew up, and where, supposedly, her grandfather slaughtered his wife and infant daughter.
Is it merely coincidence that a local girl goes missing the very same weekend Agnes arrives? Suddenly, Agnes and Nora’s investigation is turned upside down, and everyone in the small Icelandic town is once again a suspect. Seeking to unearth old and new truths alike, Agnes finds herself drawn into a web of secrets that threaten the redemption she is hell-bent on delivering, and even her life—discovering how far a person will go to protect their family, their safety, and their secrets.
Set against an unforgiving Icelandic winter landscape, The Lost House is a chilling and razor-sharp thriller packed with jaw-dropping twists that will leave you breathless.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published January 14, 2025
271 people are currently reading
40351 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Larsen
2 books226 followersMELISSA LARSEN is the author of Shutter and The Lost House. She received her M.F.A. from Columbia University and her B.A. from New York University. When she isn’t traveling somewhere to research her next novel―and somehow hurting herself in the process―she lives in New York City and teaches creative writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 896 reviews
October 21, 2024
This chilling book was exactly what I have been looking for. If only the weather where I live was colder (and snowing), this book would have been perfection (and trust me, it was pretty close to it). This book was atmospheric, as it takes place in Bifrost, Iceland. Not only could I picture the snow falling, the ice covered roads, the knee-deep walkways filled with snow, but I could also feel the cold temperatures going through my skin- making me need just one more blanket to keep warm. ☕️ The suspense also sent chills down my spine, and I was so sorry when this book ended. I also personally resonated with our main character of Agnes, as she suffered a leg injury. The healing journey of a shattered kneecap/ leg injury is a painful one, and there is the before version of yourself and the after version of yourself…
This story is about Agnes Glin, who goes on a trip to Iceland alone to take part in a podcast. The podcast is run by Nora Carver, and Nora is digging up a case from 40 years ago which involves the murders of Agnes’s late grandmother and aunt. Agnes’s grandfather, Einar Palsson, is suspected of those murders, and Agnes would like to hopefully prove his innocence.
As soon as Agnes arrives in Iceland, another young girl goes missing. So along with trying to interview people from her grandparents past, Agnes and Nora are also on a hunt for the missing girl. In search of the missing girl and through Agnes’s travels, she braves through the cold temperatures and the blizzard-like snow taking place. Agnes deals with the flashbacks of her leg injury, and her current pain and loss that she is going through. The grief, trauma, and suspense kept me turning these pages faster and faster.
This book was a pleasant surprise, and I definitely recommend reading this book. I also found a new author to read, because I enjoyed her writing very much!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Minotaur Books/St. Martin’s Press, and the author for an ARC of this book which I had the pleasure to read. Publication date: January 14, 2025.
This story is about Agnes Glin, who goes on a trip to Iceland alone to take part in a podcast. The podcast is run by Nora Carver, and Nora is digging up a case from 40 years ago which involves the murders of Agnes’s late grandmother and aunt. Agnes’s grandfather, Einar Palsson, is suspected of those murders, and Agnes would like to hopefully prove his innocence.
As soon as Agnes arrives in Iceland, another young girl goes missing. So along with trying to interview people from her grandparents past, Agnes and Nora are also on a hunt for the missing girl. In search of the missing girl and through Agnes’s travels, she braves through the cold temperatures and the blizzard-like snow taking place. Agnes deals with the flashbacks of her leg injury, and her current pain and loss that she is going through. The grief, trauma, and suspense kept me turning these pages faster and faster.
This book was a pleasant surprise, and I definitely recommend reading this book. I also found a new author to read, because I enjoyed her writing very much!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Minotaur Books/St. Martin’s Press, and the author for an ARC of this book which I had the pleasure to read. Publication date: January 14, 2025.
January 28, 2025
3.75⭐️
“Most people approach cold cases with the mindset that there is one simple answer, just waiting to be uncovered. But life isn’t so simple. We all carry our own individual truths, our own stories, our own reasonings for our actions. No one wants to be the bad guy, and so we distort facts to suit our images of ourselves, and we do this so often that eventually, the lie becomes the truth.”
Forty years ago, university professor Einar Pálsson and his nine-year-old son Magnus left their hometown of Bifröst, Iceland for the United States after the gruesome murder of his twenty-six-year-old wife local schoolteacher, Marie and their six-month-old daughter, Agnes. Though he was never formally charged with the murders, friends and neighbors were convinced of his guilt. Forty years after the murders Agnes Glin, Einar’s twenty-seven-year-old granddaughter arrives in Iceland hoping to clear her late grandfather’s name. As the fortieth anniversary of the murders approaches True Crime podcaster Nora Carver has decided to feature “The Frozen Madonna case” and is happy to have secured Agnes’s participation. Agnes has been struggling with an injury and the grief of losing her dear grandfather one year ago and hopes to find out more about the case and her family history. Growing up the events that transpired in Iceland were rarely mentioned and she has to rely on existing records and the memories of those who knew her parents (most of whom remain convinced of Einar’s guilt) to piece together what happened all those years ago and unravel the mystery behind the unsolved murders. Locals maintained a bizarre fascination with the case of “the Frozen Madonna and Child ” and the “Bifröst Murder House” (Agnes’s family home) which has been kept in its original state by the new owner. Complicating matters further is the fact that a young university student was reported missing after attending a party at the same venue.
Could there be a connection between the events of the past and the disappearance of the young girl? Is the true murderer still at large? How dependable are the recollections of those who knew the family? Will Agnes find what she is looking for, and if so, at what cost to her own well-being?
"Memories change every time we access them."
Atmospheric and intriguing, The Lost House by Melissa Larsen is a well-crafted mystery that will keep you hooked until the very last page. The author does a brilliant job of setting the scene, with vivid descriptions of the icy landscape and the family home, transporting you to Iceland with Agnes. The narrative is presented, for the most part from Agnes’s perspective and follows her as she braves the icy weather, struggles with her own opioid addiction and tries to get to the truth behind the murders of her grandmother and aunt. The pace is on the slower side, but this works for the book, contributing to the atmospheric and suspenseful tone and allowing us to get to know the characters. Most of the past events are presented as recollections of the family’s friends and neighbors and while not all can be trusted , I thought the author does a great job of establishing the possible suspects and motives in this manner. The present-day mystery is comparatively more straightforward but cleverly crafted. The author does a skillful job of weaving the different threads of the novel into an absorbing narrative and I liked how the subplots converge as the truth is revealed. The author strikes a perfect balance between the plot-driven and character-driven elements of the novel. It was heartening to see Agnes’s faith in the innocence of the man who helped raise her and the author has depicted Agnes’s inner dilemma and how she faces her own demons in the process of revisiting her family history. A running theme in this novel is how true crime is sensationalized, often at a great emotional cost to those who are personally affected by the same. There were a few moments and revelations toward the end that felt a tad rushed, but overall, I found this novel to be a gripping read and was invested in Agnes's journey.
This was my first time reading this author and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Many thanks to St. Martin's Press /Minotaur Books for the digital ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
“Most people approach cold cases with the mindset that there is one simple answer, just waiting to be uncovered. But life isn’t so simple. We all carry our own individual truths, our own stories, our own reasonings for our actions. No one wants to be the bad guy, and so we distort facts to suit our images of ourselves, and we do this so often that eventually, the lie becomes the truth.”
Forty years ago, university professor Einar Pálsson and his nine-year-old son Magnus left their hometown of Bifröst, Iceland for the United States after the gruesome murder of his twenty-six-year-old wife local schoolteacher, Marie and their six-month-old daughter, Agnes. Though he was never formally charged with the murders, friends and neighbors were convinced of his guilt. Forty years after the murders Agnes Glin, Einar’s twenty-seven-year-old granddaughter arrives in Iceland hoping to clear her late grandfather’s name. As the fortieth anniversary of the murders approaches True Crime podcaster Nora Carver has decided to feature “The Frozen Madonna case” and is happy to have secured Agnes’s participation. Agnes has been struggling with an injury and the grief of losing her dear grandfather one year ago and hopes to find out more about the case and her family history. Growing up the events that transpired in Iceland were rarely mentioned and she has to rely on existing records and the memories of those who knew her parents (most of whom remain convinced of Einar’s guilt) to piece together what happened all those years ago and unravel the mystery behind the unsolved murders. Locals maintained a bizarre fascination with the case of “the Frozen Madonna and Child ” and the “Bifröst Murder House” (Agnes’s family home) which has been kept in its original state by the new owner. Complicating matters further is the fact that a young university student was reported missing after attending a party at the same venue.
Could there be a connection between the events of the past and the disappearance of the young girl? Is the true murderer still at large? How dependable are the recollections of those who knew the family? Will Agnes find what she is looking for, and if so, at what cost to her own well-being?
"Memories change every time we access them."
Atmospheric and intriguing, The Lost House by Melissa Larsen is a well-crafted mystery that will keep you hooked until the very last page. The author does a brilliant job of setting the scene, with vivid descriptions of the icy landscape and the family home, transporting you to Iceland with Agnes. The narrative is presented, for the most part from Agnes’s perspective and follows her as she braves the icy weather, struggles with her own opioid addiction and tries to get to the truth behind the murders of her grandmother and aunt. The pace is on the slower side, but this works for the book, contributing to the atmospheric and suspenseful tone and allowing us to get to know the characters. Most of the past events are presented as recollections of the family’s friends and neighbors and while not all can be trusted , I thought the author does a great job of establishing the possible suspects and motives in this manner. The present-day mystery is comparatively more straightforward but cleverly crafted. The author does a skillful job of weaving the different threads of the novel into an absorbing narrative and I liked how the subplots converge as the truth is revealed. The author strikes a perfect balance between the plot-driven and character-driven elements of the novel. It was heartening to see Agnes’s faith in the innocence of the man who helped raise her and the author has depicted Agnes’s inner dilemma and how she faces her own demons in the process of revisiting her family history. A running theme in this novel is how true crime is sensationalized, often at a great emotional cost to those who are personally affected by the same. There were a few moments and revelations toward the end that felt a tad rushed, but overall, I found this novel to be a gripping read and was invested in Agnes's journey.
This was my first time reading this author and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Many thanks to St. Martin's Press /Minotaur Books for the digital ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
January 4, 2025
My thanks to St. Martin's Press, Melissa Larsen and Netgalley.
Poor Agnes...
I felt sad for Agnes but holy shit did I love her attitude!
This takes place in Iceland. One of my favorite parts of the world that I'll never see. "Bummer!"
This book checked nearly all of my boxes on what I want in a mystery.
Sorry guys and gals, but that's my big review!
Poor Agnes...
I felt sad for Agnes but holy shit did I love her attitude!
This takes place in Iceland. One of my favorite parts of the world that I'll never see. "Bummer!"
This book checked nearly all of my boxes on what I want in a mystery.
Sorry guys and gals, but that's my big review!
January 15, 2025
The Sisters’ Ramblings
I’ve been on a magical reading streak lately, riding high through tales that had me under their spell from the first word. And then this one came along…yeah it happens to us all.
You know how sometimes the magic just isn’t there? Like no spark, no intrigue, no connection—nothing brewing the way you hoped. That’s exactly how this one felt for me. I kept flipping pages, waiting for something to ignite, but it never happened. Eventually, I decided it was time to grab my broomstick and fly off to another book—one that’s witchy and, hopefully, packed with the magic I’m craving.
Check out Norma’s rambling. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I’ve been on a magical reading streak lately, riding high through tales that had me under their spell from the first word. And then this one came along…yeah it happens to us all.
You know how sometimes the magic just isn’t there? Like no spark, no intrigue, no connection—nothing brewing the way you hoped. That’s exactly how this one felt for me. I kept flipping pages, waiting for something to ignite, but it never happened. Eventually, I decided it was time to grab my broomstick and fly off to another book—one that’s witchy and, hopefully, packed with the magic I’m craving.
Check out Norma’s rambling. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
January 16, 2025
The Lost House by Melissa Larsen was both suspenseful and atmospheric. It was set in the frigid terrain of Iceland with plentiful snow, sometimes producing blizzard like conditions and limited sunshine. A place where neighbors lived far apart yet maintained a sense of familiarity. The town of Bifrost had been the site a horrific murder mystery that occurred forty years in the past. There was never conclusive evidence to prove who the murderer was but the people of Bifrost never wavered from their suspicions despite the lack of evidence to provide a guilty verdict. The suspect and his young son vanished and made their way to California. They never looked back nor returned.
Agnes Glin had arrived in Iceland on the fortieth anniversary of the notorious murder mystery that her grandfather had been suspected of committing. It had been Agnes’s grandmother and aunt who had been murdered all those years ago. Her grandfather had been accused of the crime but no evidence ever proved that he was responsible for murdering his wife and infant daughter. Agnes had been invited to come to Iceland by Nora Carver, a true-crime podcaster. Nora Carver wanted to open up this cold case and interview the people who had been alive at the time of the murder. She was hoping to uncover some clues that had never surfaced before. She invited Agnes to join her so that she could interview her and gain her perspective on how she felt about her grandfather’s role in the murders. It was the perfect time for Agnes to visit Iceland for her very first time. Her grandfather had recently died and Agnes had recently ended a long term relationship with her girlfriend. She wanted more than anything to clear her grandfather’s name once and for all. Just as Agnes arrived in Iceland, she learned that a young women had gone missing. There had been a party at her grandfather’s long ago abandoned home to commemorate the murder that had occurred forty years ago in the past. The young woman who had gone missing had received a phone call that night just before she had left the party and had not been seen or heard from since then. Did the woman want to disappear or was foul play involved? Could there be another murder case in Bifrost? Search parties were organized and led to help find her. Would Agnes find out the truth about what happened to grandmother and aunt all those years ago? Was the grandfather Agnes came to love and respect capable of murder?
I listened to the audiobook of The Lost House by Melissa Larsen that was brilliantly narrated by Saskia Maarleveld. Her voice was perfect for this atmospheric narration. She easily distinguished between the characters various voices. I found it a little slow in the beginning but the ending made up for that in spades. The ending had me sitting at the edge of my seat holding my breath. It was quite satisfying. This was the first book that I have read by Melissa Larsen but it will not be my last. I rec this book to anyone who enjoys a good murder mystery set in Iceland.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of The Lost House by Melissa Larsen through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Agnes Glin had arrived in Iceland on the fortieth anniversary of the notorious murder mystery that her grandfather had been suspected of committing. It had been Agnes’s grandmother and aunt who had been murdered all those years ago. Her grandfather had been accused of the crime but no evidence ever proved that he was responsible for murdering his wife and infant daughter. Agnes had been invited to come to Iceland by Nora Carver, a true-crime podcaster. Nora Carver wanted to open up this cold case and interview the people who had been alive at the time of the murder. She was hoping to uncover some clues that had never surfaced before. She invited Agnes to join her so that she could interview her and gain her perspective on how she felt about her grandfather’s role in the murders. It was the perfect time for Agnes to visit Iceland for her very first time. Her grandfather had recently died and Agnes had recently ended a long term relationship with her girlfriend. She wanted more than anything to clear her grandfather’s name once and for all. Just as Agnes arrived in Iceland, she learned that a young women had gone missing. There had been a party at her grandfather’s long ago abandoned home to commemorate the murder that had occurred forty years ago in the past. The young woman who had gone missing had received a phone call that night just before she had left the party and had not been seen or heard from since then. Did the woman want to disappear or was foul play involved? Could there be another murder case in Bifrost? Search parties were organized and led to help find her. Would Agnes find out the truth about what happened to grandmother and aunt all those years ago? Was the grandfather Agnes came to love and respect capable of murder?
I listened to the audiobook of The Lost House by Melissa Larsen that was brilliantly narrated by Saskia Maarleveld. Her voice was perfect for this atmospheric narration. She easily distinguished between the characters various voices. I found it a little slow in the beginning but the ending made up for that in spades. The ending had me sitting at the edge of my seat holding my breath. It was quite satisfying. This was the first book that I have read by Melissa Larsen but it will not be my last. I rec this book to anyone who enjoys a good murder mystery set in Iceland.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of The Lost House by Melissa Larsen through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 26, 2025
I seem to be reading a lot of books lately where a house/cabin/shack plays a major role and this is another one in that series. This one takes place in a remote town in Iceland. Forty years earlier a young woman and her infant daughter were found buried in the cold Icelandic snow, lying together as peacefully as though sleeping. Except the mother’s throat had been slashed and the infant drowned. No one was ever charged although suspicion fell on the dead woman's husband, Agnes's grandfather. A year after his death Agnes accepts true crime expert Nora Carver’s invitation to be interviewed about the case on her popular podcast.
In my opinion there's an awful lot of information in the synopsis for this book. Although the synopsis doesn't really give too much away, you might want to skip it and just dive into the story and let it unfold. I think you'll be glad you did.
The story is told from Agnes's point of view and mostly takes place in February 2019 when Agnes arrives in Iceland from California to meet with Nora Carver. Coincidentally a young woman has gone missing in the small town of Bifrost and at first Agnes is a bit put out by the fact that Nora seems more interested in pursuing that story than in helping Agnes unravel the truth behind her grandmother's death 40 years previously but she soon becomes involved in the search for the missing girl. Agnes is recovering from a serious accident after which she went through a lot of surgery and rehabilitation and has become addicted to painkillers. Descriptions of her pain were so excruciating I could hardly stand it at times. There are quite a few characters in this story and I found it difficult to decide who to trust. Although slow at times, overall I was totally engrossed in the story and was satisfied with the ending. I'd definitely read another book by this author. 4.5 stars rounded down.
Being a month into our winter in Canada, the descriptions of bone-chilling cold, frozen bodies of water and lots of snowfall, was really relatable and more than once I had to curl up under a blanket. I felt like I was right there in Iceland.
TW: Addiction, mention of abortion, mention of suicide.
My thanks to St. Martin's Publishing Group and Minotaur Books, via Netgalley, for inviting me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: January 14, 2025
In my opinion there's an awful lot of information in the synopsis for this book. Although the synopsis doesn't really give too much away, you might want to skip it and just dive into the story and let it unfold. I think you'll be glad you did.
The story is told from Agnes's point of view and mostly takes place in February 2019 when Agnes arrives in Iceland from California to meet with Nora Carver. Coincidentally a young woman has gone missing in the small town of Bifrost and at first Agnes is a bit put out by the fact that Nora seems more interested in pursuing that story than in helping Agnes unravel the truth behind her grandmother's death 40 years previously but she soon becomes involved in the search for the missing girl. Agnes is recovering from a serious accident after which she went through a lot of surgery and rehabilitation and has become addicted to painkillers. Descriptions of her pain were so excruciating I could hardly stand it at times. There are quite a few characters in this story and I found it difficult to decide who to trust. Although slow at times, overall I was totally engrossed in the story and was satisfied with the ending. I'd definitely read another book by this author. 4.5 stars rounded down.
Being a month into our winter in Canada, the descriptions of bone-chilling cold, frozen bodies of water and lots of snowfall, was really relatable and more than once I had to curl up under a blanket. I felt like I was right there in Iceland.
TW: Addiction, mention of abortion, mention of suicide.
My thanks to St. Martin's Publishing Group and Minotaur Books, via Netgalley, for inviting me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: January 14, 2025
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January 14, 2025Happy Publication Day to THE LOST HOUSE by Melissa Larsen—January 14, 2025
The Sisters’ Ramblings
Sometimes, a book just doesn’t find its rhythm with you, and that’s okay. I wanted to love this one—I could tell the author poured so much care and effort into the story. The premise sounded fascinating, and the writing itself had some lovely moments.
Unfortunately, I found my mind wandering, and I kept having to reread paragraphs, struggling to stay connected. I couldn’t quite latch onto the characters or feel fully immersed in their world. On top of that, some of the subject matter was triggering for me. I’ve learned to recognize when I need to be kind to myself and step away, and this was one of those times.
That said, I know this book has resonated with so many other readers, and I’m glad it’s found its audience. It just wasn’t the right fit for me this time.
Check out Brenda’s rambling.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. Thank you!
The Sisters’ Ramblings
Sometimes, a book just doesn’t find its rhythm with you, and that’s okay. I wanted to love this one—I could tell the author poured so much care and effort into the story. The premise sounded fascinating, and the writing itself had some lovely moments.
Unfortunately, I found my mind wandering, and I kept having to reread paragraphs, struggling to stay connected. I couldn’t quite latch onto the characters or feel fully immersed in their world. On top of that, some of the subject matter was triggering for me. I’ve learned to recognize when I need to be kind to myself and step away, and this was one of those times.
That said, I know this book has resonated with so many other readers, and I’m glad it’s found its audience. It just wasn’t the right fit for me this time.
Check out Brenda’s rambling.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. Thank you!
January 16, 2025
3.5 stars, rounded up for the setting. I really wanted to read this thriller primarily because it’s set in Iceland, the most amazing place I have ever been. And the setting and sense of the people and place was very well done and I enjoyed that part. The mystery here was a lot less successful for me, prolly cause I disliked the FMC, Agnes, so very much (she was hooked on pain pills, her motivations felt off to me and she was just not the brightest tool in the shed). I found it hard to like ANY of the characters, actually, so that made parts of this a bit of a slog, but the ending and resolution was decent though, so a mixed review from me.
December 13, 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Mystery Thriller
"The Lost House" takes place in the frigid and icy landscape of Iceland. It’s about Agnes, a young woman with a troubled past. She returns to her family’s old home to investigate a brutal murder that happened in her family.
The brutal murder of Agnes's grandma and baby daughter was discovered in the snow forty years ago. The grandpa of Agnes, who escaped to the United States, was perpetually the object of suspicion and the case was never solved. Having been brought up by her grandfather, Agnes has always held the belief that he is innocent.
By agreeing to assist true crime podcaster Nora in her investigation, Agnes perceives a chance to exonerate her grandfather. Their collaborative investigation into the case uncovers long-forgotten truths and presents them with peril at every step.
Let’s start with the positive stuff. The book has a really crazy, spooky vibe. The harsh Icelandic landscape adds a terrifying element, heightening the suspense. On top of that, the storyline is fantastic. Your interest is captivated and held by the mystery surrounding the unsolved murder and the missing girl from the area.
The book has some strengths, but its slow pace and repetitive nature detracted from the overall reading experience. There were moments when I felt impatient and wished the story would progress more quickly. Despite these issues, it is a decent read for those who enjoy atmospheric mysteries and are willing to be patient as the plot unfolds.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the ARC of this book.
Genre: Mystery Thriller
"The Lost House" takes place in the frigid and icy landscape of Iceland. It’s about Agnes, a young woman with a troubled past. She returns to her family’s old home to investigate a brutal murder that happened in her family.
The brutal murder of Agnes's grandma and baby daughter was discovered in the snow forty years ago. The grandpa of Agnes, who escaped to the United States, was perpetually the object of suspicion and the case was never solved. Having been brought up by her grandfather, Agnes has always held the belief that he is innocent.
By agreeing to assist true crime podcaster Nora in her investigation, Agnes perceives a chance to exonerate her grandfather. Their collaborative investigation into the case uncovers long-forgotten truths and presents them with peril at every step.
Let’s start with the positive stuff. The book has a really crazy, spooky vibe. The harsh Icelandic landscape adds a terrifying element, heightening the suspense. On top of that, the storyline is fantastic. Your interest is captivated and held by the mystery surrounding the unsolved murder and the missing girl from the area.
The book has some strengths, but its slow pace and repetitive nature detracted from the overall reading experience. There were moments when I felt impatient and wished the story would progress more quickly. Despite these issues, it is a decent read for those who enjoy atmospheric mysteries and are willing to be patient as the plot unfolds.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the ARC of this book.
February 28, 2025
OVERVIEW
Chilling yet beautiful setting, horrifying past crime, spooky houses, interesting characters, overcoming challenges, beautiful women, finding a new lease on life.
OF NOTE
- The wrap-up of the podcast was lacking.
- A major female character is into women.
- The book title lacks imagination
CONCLUSION
Recommended
- Desiree Reads
The Bookish Birder
February 16, 2025
See more book recommendations at:
https://bookshop.org/shop/TheBookishB...
Chilling yet beautiful setting, horrifying past crime, spooky houses, interesting characters, overcoming challenges, beautiful women, finding a new lease on life.
OF NOTE
- The wrap-up of the podcast was lacking.
- A major female character is into women.
- The book title lacks imagination
CONCLUSION
Recommended
- Desiree Reads
The Bookish Birder
February 16, 2025
See more book recommendations at:
https://bookshop.org/shop/TheBookishB...
December 14, 2024
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Melissa Larsen, and Macmillan Audio for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
After discovering this book by Melissa Larsen, I was eager to see if it would meet my expectations. Larsen develops this Nordic noir thriller, mixing the best of the genre with some character development to keep the reader highly entertained. After a woman and her infant are found frozen in the Icelandic winter four decades ago, the authorities still have no leads, only presumptions that it must have been the husband. Fast-forward to the present, Agnes returns from California to her family’s native land to clear her grandfather’s name, the man who may have been responsible. While Agnes finds locals who remembered her grandfather, she discovers that it is anything but what she expected after all these years. Determined to clear her grandfather’s name, Agnes must also face many of the lingering doubts locals have of her and the whispers that have fuelled decades of presumption. Larsen delivers a wonderfully sinister story that could only come from something Nordic.
A young woman and her infant are found in the Icelandic winter four decades ago, called the Frozen Madonna and Child. While they seem peaceful, the woman had a slash across her throat and the infant was drowned before being placed in this position. The authorities could not find a suspect and the case soon went…cold. Everyone presumed it was the husband, whose guilt was on solidified when he fled with his remaining child for warmer climes across the Atlantic.
In the present, Agnes returns from California to her family’s homeland to clear her grandfather’s name, working alongside a popular true crime podcaster with a penchant for revealing truths in cold cases. Agnes is determined to get answers and ensure that her family is not left to linger in the shadows, remaining but a collection of small-town whispers. Agnes is ready to delve deeply to discover the truth and potentially hunt for a killer. The bait is set and it is high time to lay out the foundation of the crime and see what might have been missed. This serves to dig up old stories and reopens wounds best left undisturbed.
Agnes explored where her father grew up in the small community of Bifröst. The stories about the young boy are plentiful, but so are the whispers of what her grandfather likely did to his wife and infant daughter. Agnes wonders often if she made a mistake trying to set things straight, but cannot turn back now that she has left her California life in tatters.
As Agnes seeks answers, the local media draws parallels with her return and a girl who goes missing the same week. Could the killer have been waiting all these years, ready to reignite the crimes with new vigour? Everyone is once more a suspect and they must explain away their whereabouts, while also recounting stories of the crimes forty years earlier. The lies pile up and Agnes soon realises that she has done so much to create trouble for all in this tiny community. Was it worth it, trying to clear the name of a man whose death locked away crimes no one has thought about for many years? Melissa Larsen delivers a story that spans four decades and keeps the reader on edge until all is revealed.
There is something about Nordic noir thrillers that have always intrigued me. They deliver a solid story but always have a lingering deeper sense of despair. Melissa Larsen works well to deliver a piece that checks all the boxes, while also keeping the reader in the middle of the action. The narrative finds many ways to grow and keeps the reader connected to the larger story with ease. Many characters emerge throughout, flavored with that Icelandic perspective that adds something many novels I read lack. The depth and darkness cannot be matched, though Larsen has done so with ease. Plot points develop and expand with each passing chapter, providing strong surprises that the reader must handle as they await truths about crimes both past and present. Melissa Larsen finds ways to keep the reader stuck in the web and demanding more as the truth envelopes them with ease.
Kudos, Madam Larsen, for an addictive thriller!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
After discovering this book by Melissa Larsen, I was eager to see if it would meet my expectations. Larsen develops this Nordic noir thriller, mixing the best of the genre with some character development to keep the reader highly entertained. After a woman and her infant are found frozen in the Icelandic winter four decades ago, the authorities still have no leads, only presumptions that it must have been the husband. Fast-forward to the present, Agnes returns from California to her family’s native land to clear her grandfather’s name, the man who may have been responsible. While Agnes finds locals who remembered her grandfather, she discovers that it is anything but what she expected after all these years. Determined to clear her grandfather’s name, Agnes must also face many of the lingering doubts locals have of her and the whispers that have fuelled decades of presumption. Larsen delivers a wonderfully sinister story that could only come from something Nordic.
A young woman and her infant are found in the Icelandic winter four decades ago, called the Frozen Madonna and Child. While they seem peaceful, the woman had a slash across her throat and the infant was drowned before being placed in this position. The authorities could not find a suspect and the case soon went…cold. Everyone presumed it was the husband, whose guilt was on solidified when he fled with his remaining child for warmer climes across the Atlantic.
In the present, Agnes returns from California to her family’s homeland to clear her grandfather’s name, working alongside a popular true crime podcaster with a penchant for revealing truths in cold cases. Agnes is determined to get answers and ensure that her family is not left to linger in the shadows, remaining but a collection of small-town whispers. Agnes is ready to delve deeply to discover the truth and potentially hunt for a killer. The bait is set and it is high time to lay out the foundation of the crime and see what might have been missed. This serves to dig up old stories and reopens wounds best left undisturbed.
Agnes explored where her father grew up in the small community of Bifröst. The stories about the young boy are plentiful, but so are the whispers of what her grandfather likely did to his wife and infant daughter. Agnes wonders often if she made a mistake trying to set things straight, but cannot turn back now that she has left her California life in tatters.
As Agnes seeks answers, the local media draws parallels with her return and a girl who goes missing the same week. Could the killer have been waiting all these years, ready to reignite the crimes with new vigour? Everyone is once more a suspect and they must explain away their whereabouts, while also recounting stories of the crimes forty years earlier. The lies pile up and Agnes soon realises that she has done so much to create trouble for all in this tiny community. Was it worth it, trying to clear the name of a man whose death locked away crimes no one has thought about for many years? Melissa Larsen delivers a story that spans four decades and keeps the reader on edge until all is revealed.
There is something about Nordic noir thrillers that have always intrigued me. They deliver a solid story but always have a lingering deeper sense of despair. Melissa Larsen works well to deliver a piece that checks all the boxes, while also keeping the reader in the middle of the action. The narrative finds many ways to grow and keeps the reader connected to the larger story with ease. Many characters emerge throughout, flavored with that Icelandic perspective that adds something many novels I read lack. The depth and darkness cannot be matched, though Larsen has done so with ease. Plot points develop and expand with each passing chapter, providing strong surprises that the reader must handle as they await truths about crimes both past and present. Melissa Larsen finds ways to keep the reader stuck in the web and demanding more as the truth envelopes them with ease.
Kudos, Madam Larsen, for an addictive thriller!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
January 21, 2025
The blurb for this one sounded so interesting and I loved the idea of an Icelandic setting, but the writing was just ok. The storyline was decent, but the wording was confusing at times and some smaller things got a bit repetitive. I don't even know how many times our MC said her mind wandered off to another topic and she wasn't listening to someone who was speaking to her. I wanted to shout at her to pay attention.
I was frustrated several times by our MC. She wasn't my favorite character. I felt she was kind of rude and made some bad decisions. I also felt that the Icelandic people were represented as kind of rude and boorish. I think this is the opposite of the reputation Iceland has and I was a bit put off by it.
Overall, it was an all right book, but I'm disappointed because I was expecting more and really thought I was going to love it. The concept was good, but the writing style wasn't a great fit for me.
2.5★
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books for providing me with a complimentary electronic copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I was frustrated several times by our MC. She wasn't my favorite character. I felt she was kind of rude and made some bad decisions. I also felt that the Icelandic people were represented as kind of rude and boorish. I think this is the opposite of the reputation Iceland has and I was a bit put off by it.
Overall, it was an all right book, but I'm disappointed because I was expecting more and really thought I was going to love it. The concept was good, but the writing style wasn't a great fit for me.
2.5★
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books for providing me with a complimentary electronic copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 26, 2025
Please note that I received this via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
I was so hopeful on this one, but the book falls apart before it even gets going and the ending had me going okay then. I liked the idea of the Agnes going to Iceland to see if she can figure out what happened to her grandfather's wife and daughter, but it was so hamfisted and it just didn't work. I am realizing that maybe it would have been better to have the story told through the eyes of Nora Carver (the podcaster).
"The Lost House" follows Agnes traveling to Iceland to be interviewed by a true crime podcaster, Nora Carver. Agnes has dealt with her father and grandfather not talking about what happened to drive them from Iceland about 40 years earlier. All Agnes knows is that her grandmother and aunt were both found murdered and left in the snow. Many thought Agnes's grandfather did it, but she does not believe that and wants to clear his name. She agrees to stay with Nora so she can be interviewed and also see where her family is from.
Agnes was a lot. I think that Larsen had way too much happening with her to the point that I found her distracting to the central plot/story. I didn't care about her love life, the insta-love that happened in the story was just so bizarre I didn't even really get what that was about, and she was just a poor amateur investigator. I just found myself taking out of the story so much with her and I wish that Larsen had switched to Nora's POV for some of this.
The other characters are paper thin outside of Nora I thought. I found her more interesting along with her backstory and why she got involved with true crime. She also seemed to read people way better than Agnes did. I thought the podcast angle was a good one, but it just seems to be picked up and dropped off randomly in the story because of Agnes and what she was doing.
The plot was pretty basic to me because it can only be one of two things, the grandfather did it, or someone else did it. And there's not a lot there to only think one thing IMHO.
The setting of Iceland I wish had been leaned into more. It felt like most of this book took place in the rental that Agnes and Nora were at or other rooms. The beginning of the book with the descriptions showed promise though.
The ending just felt broken apart. I really want to know what happened with certain characters and was disappointed on how Larsen ended things.
I was so hopeful on this one, but the book falls apart before it even gets going and the ending had me going okay then. I liked the idea of the Agnes going to Iceland to see if she can figure out what happened to her grandfather's wife and daughter, but it was so hamfisted and it just didn't work. I am realizing that maybe it would have been better to have the story told through the eyes of Nora Carver (the podcaster).
"The Lost House" follows Agnes traveling to Iceland to be interviewed by a true crime podcaster, Nora Carver. Agnes has dealt with her father and grandfather not talking about what happened to drive them from Iceland about 40 years earlier. All Agnes knows is that her grandmother and aunt were both found murdered and left in the snow. Many thought Agnes's grandfather did it, but she does not believe that and wants to clear his name. She agrees to stay with Nora so she can be interviewed and also see where her family is from.
Agnes was a lot. I think that Larsen had way too much happening with her to the point that I found her distracting to the central plot/story. I didn't care about her love life, the insta-love that happened in the story was just so bizarre I didn't even really get what that was about, and she was just a poor amateur investigator. I just found myself taking out of the story so much with her and I wish that Larsen had switched to Nora's POV for some of this.
The other characters are paper thin outside of Nora I thought. I found her more interesting along with her backstory and why she got involved with true crime. She also seemed to read people way better than Agnes did. I thought the podcast angle was a good one, but it just seems to be picked up and dropped off randomly in the story because of Agnes and what she was doing.
The plot was pretty basic to me because it can only be one of two things, the grandfather did it, or someone else did it. And there's not a lot there to only think one thing IMHO.
The setting of Iceland I wish had been leaned into more. It felt like most of this book took place in the rental that Agnes and Nora were at or other rooms. The beginning of the book with the descriptions showed promise though.
The ending just felt broken apart. I really want to know what happened with certain characters and was disappointed on how Larsen ended things.
December 20, 2024
When I heard Abby from @crimebytthebook talking about this book I raced to NetGalley to find it. So happy to get approved for both the print and audiobook, I dived right in.
The Lost House is a slow burning murder mystery set in Iceland. Almost 40 years ago, Agnes’s grandfather was suspected of killing his wife and baby daughter. He was never convicted but he took his young son and moved to California. Now with the anniversary looming, Agnes has agreed to talk to podcaster, Nora Carver about what she knows and the grandfather that she loved so dearly. She has never been to Iceland and hopes that she can clear her beloved grandfather’s name.
This was such a great story, with an incredible setting of the ice and snow. Combined with the early darkness, this made for a creepy and intense story. Agnes is pretty messed up in more ways than one, so it was hard to know if what she was telling the reader was fact of fiction. It was emotional and heartbreaking at times.
The audiobook was brilliant, with the always fantastic Saaskia Maaleveld narrating. She always brings the story and characters to life, making this a winner for me.
Thanks so much to S Martin’s Press and Macmillan audio for the advanced copies. A new author to add to the list. Out on January 14th.
The Lost House is a slow burning murder mystery set in Iceland. Almost 40 years ago, Agnes’s grandfather was suspected of killing his wife and baby daughter. He was never convicted but he took his young son and moved to California. Now with the anniversary looming, Agnes has agreed to talk to podcaster, Nora Carver about what she knows and the grandfather that she loved so dearly. She has never been to Iceland and hopes that she can clear her beloved grandfather’s name.
This was such a great story, with an incredible setting of the ice and snow. Combined with the early darkness, this made for a creepy and intense story. Agnes is pretty messed up in more ways than one, so it was hard to know if what she was telling the reader was fact of fiction. It was emotional and heartbreaking at times.
The audiobook was brilliant, with the always fantastic Saaskia Maaleveld narrating. She always brings the story and characters to life, making this a winner for me.
Thanks so much to S Martin’s Press and Macmillan audio for the advanced copies. A new author to add to the list. Out on January 14th.
November 11, 2024
Agnes is trying to solve a decades old murder case that her grandfather was a prime suspect. Shortly after her arrival in this quaint town, their is another murder. This book captured my attention from the start.
January 5, 2025
Melissa Larsen is a new author for me, but the story description and the fact that it is set in Iceland made me want to read it. You don't see many books with Iceland as the setting.
Description:
Forty years ago, a young woman and her infant daughter were found buried in the cold Icelandic snow, lying together as peacefully as though sleeping. Except the mother’s throat had been slashed and the infant drowned. The case was never solved. There were no arrests, no conviction. Just a suspicion turned into a the husband did it. When he took his son and fled halfway across the world to California, it was proof enough of his guilt.
Now, nearly half a century later and a year after his death, his granddaughter, Agnes, is ready to clear her grandfather’s name once and for all. Still recovering from his death and a devastating injury, Agnes wants nothing more than an excuse to escape the shambles of her once-stable life—which is why she so readily accepts true crime expert Nora Carver’s invitation to be interviewed for her popular podcast. Agnes packs a bag and hops on a last-minute flight to the remote town of Bifröst, Iceland, where Nora is staying, where Agnes’s father grew up, and where, supposedly, her grandfather slaughtered his wife and infant daughter.
Is it merely coincidence that a local girl goes missing the very same weekend Agnes arrives? Suddenly, Agnes and Nora’s investigation is turned upside down, and everyone in the small Icelandic town is once again a suspect. Seeking to unearth old and new truths alike, Agnes finds herself drawn into a web of secrets that threaten the redemption she is hell-bent on delivering, and even her life—discovering how far a person will go to protect their family, their safety, and their secrets.
Set against an unforgiving Icelandic winter landscape, The Lost House is a chilling and razor-sharp thriller packed with jaw-dropping twists that will leave you breathless.
My Thoughts:
This was an interesting mystery and I liked it but didn't love it. It moved a little slow for me. I wanted to root for Agnes to find that her grandfather was innocent but I didn't hold out much hope that she would be successful. Nora the podcaster was an interesting character, but I was never sure of her motives. I did find the setting interesting and the terrain of Iceland seems so bleak. I don't think I could live well in that climate. Overall this is an interesting cold case mystery that I think mystery lovers will enjoy.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press - Minotaur Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
Forty years ago, a young woman and her infant daughter were found buried in the cold Icelandic snow, lying together as peacefully as though sleeping. Except the mother’s throat had been slashed and the infant drowned. The case was never solved. There were no arrests, no conviction. Just a suspicion turned into a the husband did it. When he took his son and fled halfway across the world to California, it was proof enough of his guilt.
Now, nearly half a century later and a year after his death, his granddaughter, Agnes, is ready to clear her grandfather’s name once and for all. Still recovering from his death and a devastating injury, Agnes wants nothing more than an excuse to escape the shambles of her once-stable life—which is why she so readily accepts true crime expert Nora Carver’s invitation to be interviewed for her popular podcast. Agnes packs a bag and hops on a last-minute flight to the remote town of Bifröst, Iceland, where Nora is staying, where Agnes’s father grew up, and where, supposedly, her grandfather slaughtered his wife and infant daughter.
Is it merely coincidence that a local girl goes missing the very same weekend Agnes arrives? Suddenly, Agnes and Nora’s investigation is turned upside down, and everyone in the small Icelandic town is once again a suspect. Seeking to unearth old and new truths alike, Agnes finds herself drawn into a web of secrets that threaten the redemption she is hell-bent on delivering, and even her life—discovering how far a person will go to protect their family, their safety, and their secrets.
Set against an unforgiving Icelandic winter landscape, The Lost House is a chilling and razor-sharp thriller packed with jaw-dropping twists that will leave you breathless.
My Thoughts:
This was an interesting mystery and I liked it but didn't love it. It moved a little slow for me. I wanted to root for Agnes to find that her grandfather was innocent but I didn't hold out much hope that she would be successful. Nora the podcaster was an interesting character, but I was never sure of her motives. I did find the setting interesting and the terrain of Iceland seems so bleak. I don't think I could live well in that climate. Overall this is an interesting cold case mystery that I think mystery lovers will enjoy.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press - Minotaur Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.
March 23, 2025
The granddaughter of a man accused of murdering his wife and baby forty years earlier travels to Iceland determined to prove him innocent. She is going to meet a true-crime podcaster, Nora, also interested in the story of her grandfather's involvement in the murders. Prior to her arrival in Iceland, there is recent news regarding a missing woman. This mystery also captures Nora's attention. Agnes is healing from a debilitating accident, which left her partially disabled physically. The descriptions of the Icelandic winter are powerful, leaving the readers to wonder about the efforts required to survive them. These two mysteries are intriguing, but the story line went on too long.
June 23, 2024
ARC for review. To be published January 14, 2025.
I was in at “unforgiving Icelandic winter landscape” (from the book description). I DESPISE the cold and snow so I don’t know why I’m drawn to thrillers and horror set in snowy, inhospitable environments…maybe because they are horrific to me.
This one involves a mystery that starts forty years ago when a mother and baby are found buried in the snow (eek!) in Iceland. The mother’s throat has been cut, the baby has been drowned. Everyone assumed the husband did it (mostly because it’s generally always the husband or a boyfriend); the husband fled to California with the surviving child, a son, so then it seemed certain.
Now it’s a year after that man’s death and his granddaughter, Agnes, is trying to clear his name. She is recovering from a terrible injury. She is returning to Bifrost, Iceland to be interviewed for Nora Carver’s podcast. The same week Agnes arrives a local girl goes missing.
This is one time I knew who did it right away. I have to say this book had promise but was a bit of a slog for me. Not very much happens. A lot of what occurs takes place in Agnes’s head. Great setting, of course, and not a bad book, just not the greatest.
I was in at “unforgiving Icelandic winter landscape” (from the book description). I DESPISE the cold and snow so I don’t know why I’m drawn to thrillers and horror set in snowy, inhospitable environments…maybe because they are horrific to me.
This one involves a mystery that starts forty years ago when a mother and baby are found buried in the snow (eek!) in Iceland. The mother’s throat has been cut, the baby has been drowned. Everyone assumed the husband did it (mostly because it’s generally always the husband or a boyfriend); the husband fled to California with the surviving child, a son, so then it seemed certain.
Now it’s a year after that man’s death and his granddaughter, Agnes, is trying to clear his name. She is recovering from a terrible injury. She is returning to Bifrost, Iceland to be interviewed for Nora Carver’s podcast. The same week Agnes arrives a local girl goes missing.
This is one time I knew who did it right away. I have to say this book had promise but was a bit of a slog for me. Not very much happens. A lot of what occurs takes place in Agnes’s head. Great setting, of course, and not a bad book, just not the greatest.
January 13, 2025
Melissa Larsen’s THE LOST HOUSE is a well crafted and emotionally driven thriller that weaves together mystery, suspense, and an exploration of the complexities of familial relationships impacted by unspeakable horrors and long-buried secrets. At its heart, it is a poignant story about tremendous loss and the lasting impact inflicted by shadows of the past.
The story unfolds as our protagonist, Agnes, travels to the home abandoned by her father and grandfather in Iceland, a world away from where she herself grew up in California. She is determined to uncover the truth behind the murders that shattered her family nearly 40 years ago, when the bodies of her grandmother and aunt were found hidden in the snow. Everyone accused her grandfather of killing his wife and baby daughter, but Agnes is determined to prove her grandfather’s innocence and find out what really happened. To do that, she’s agreed to be interviewed by true-crime podcaster, Nora, whose interest in this decades-long murder mystery may be the key to uncovering the truth.
Larson’s prose, set against the backdrop of an Icelandic winter, is atmospheric and evocative, fully immersing the reader in Agnes’s journey and search for the truth. In the beginning, Agnes appears to be broken and fragile, yet as the story progresses, we see someone who is strong and courageous, making a difficult journey for her family, for closure, and for redemption.
I want to thank NetGalley, Melissa Larsen, and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for gifting me the ARC of THE LOST HOUSE! It was such a privilege to read this before publication. And I appreciate you trusting me with an honest review!
The story unfolds as our protagonist, Agnes, travels to the home abandoned by her father and grandfather in Iceland, a world away from where she herself grew up in California. She is determined to uncover the truth behind the murders that shattered her family nearly 40 years ago, when the bodies of her grandmother and aunt were found hidden in the snow. Everyone accused her grandfather of killing his wife and baby daughter, but Agnes is determined to prove her grandfather’s innocence and find out what really happened. To do that, she’s agreed to be interviewed by true-crime podcaster, Nora, whose interest in this decades-long murder mystery may be the key to uncovering the truth.
Larson’s prose, set against the backdrop of an Icelandic winter, is atmospheric and evocative, fully immersing the reader in Agnes’s journey and search for the truth. In the beginning, Agnes appears to be broken and fragile, yet as the story progresses, we see someone who is strong and courageous, making a difficult journey for her family, for closure, and for redemption.
I want to thank NetGalley, Melissa Larsen, and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for gifting me the ARC of THE LOST HOUSE! It was such a privilege to read this before publication. And I appreciate you trusting me with an honest review!
January 26, 2025
40 years ago a mother and baby were murdered in Iceland.
Present day Agnes the granddaughter is coming from the US to help podcaster Nora investigate their unsolved murders. She also stumbles across a new missing persons case. The cases collide and trouble arises as truths come out.
This was a great story that kept me entertained and I hope to read more by this author.
Thanks NetGalley and St. Martins press for this eARC!
November 29, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Jan. 14, 2025
“Shutter” author Melissa Larsen transports readers to a snowy town in Iceland for her newest novel, “The Lost House”.
In a small Icelandic town, forty years ago, a young child came across a woman and an infant, dead in the snow in what was later discovered to be a grisly murder. The entire community blamed the woman’s husband, causing him to flee to the United States, never once claiming innocence. Now, Agnes receives a message from Nora, a podcaster, who wants to highlight the long-ago murders on her podcast and Agnes accepts because, after all, she is the presumed murderer’s granddaughter. As much as Agnes wants to clear her grandfather’s name, she also is desperate to escape California, recovering from a tragic accident and heartbreak, but she doesn’t expect to be immediately immersed in the case of another missing young girl- the details of which are very similar to the forty-year-old cold case.
Agnes is a protagonist with complicated family secrets, one of which of course is that her grandfather is believed to be a killer. That was all the premise I needed before grabbing at the chance to read Larsen’s “House”. Narrated by Agnes as she navigates the cold case forty years later, there are occasional snippets where readers hear from other characters (one of whom is unnamed, for obvious reasons). Larsen’s novel delves into the “podcast genre” that is becoming so popular these days, but adds a bit of exotic flavour with her cold yet breathtaking Icelandic setting.
There are quite a few suspects right off the hop that jump out at you, but the guessing-game in this novel is by far the best part. Twist after twist, the gripping plot captivates, until the unexpected ending delivers the final blow. Once I started “House”, there was no turning back.
Agnes is the kind of character that is relatable to anyone, mostly for her humanity and utter brokenness. Physically and emotionally, Agnes is looking to escape the world she knows and winds up immersed in a strange world, trying to solve a missing person’s case. She is the ideal character to cheer for, and I bonded with her from the start.
Although I had planned to check out Larsen’s debut, “Shutter”, I have yet to do so and it is always hit-or-miss for me to be introduced to an author with their sophomore novel. However, Larsen’s writing is enchanting, her characters endearing and her plot is suspenseful and thrilling. I look forward to reading more from Larsen (and hopefully, finally, getting a chance to read “Shutter”).
Expected publication date: Jan. 14, 2025
“Shutter” author Melissa Larsen transports readers to a snowy town in Iceland for her newest novel, “The Lost House”.
In a small Icelandic town, forty years ago, a young child came across a woman and an infant, dead in the snow in what was later discovered to be a grisly murder. The entire community blamed the woman’s husband, causing him to flee to the United States, never once claiming innocence. Now, Agnes receives a message from Nora, a podcaster, who wants to highlight the long-ago murders on her podcast and Agnes accepts because, after all, she is the presumed murderer’s granddaughter. As much as Agnes wants to clear her grandfather’s name, she also is desperate to escape California, recovering from a tragic accident and heartbreak, but she doesn’t expect to be immediately immersed in the case of another missing young girl- the details of which are very similar to the forty-year-old cold case.
Agnes is a protagonist with complicated family secrets, one of which of course is that her grandfather is believed to be a killer. That was all the premise I needed before grabbing at the chance to read Larsen’s “House”. Narrated by Agnes as she navigates the cold case forty years later, there are occasional snippets where readers hear from other characters (one of whom is unnamed, for obvious reasons). Larsen’s novel delves into the “podcast genre” that is becoming so popular these days, but adds a bit of exotic flavour with her cold yet breathtaking Icelandic setting.
There are quite a few suspects right off the hop that jump out at you, but the guessing-game in this novel is by far the best part. Twist after twist, the gripping plot captivates, until the unexpected ending delivers the final blow. Once I started “House”, there was no turning back.
Agnes is the kind of character that is relatable to anyone, mostly for her humanity and utter brokenness. Physically and emotionally, Agnes is looking to escape the world she knows and winds up immersed in a strange world, trying to solve a missing person’s case. She is the ideal character to cheer for, and I bonded with her from the start.
Although I had planned to check out Larsen’s debut, “Shutter”, I have yet to do so and it is always hit-or-miss for me to be introduced to an author with their sophomore novel. However, Larsen’s writing is enchanting, her characters endearing and her plot is suspenseful and thrilling. I look forward to reading more from Larsen (and hopefully, finally, getting a chance to read “Shutter”).
January 18, 2025
This is an atmospheric haunting mystery that gave me chills. Throughout this gripping story is a strong sense of foreboding. This is a story that will stay with you long after you are finished reading. Chilling, compelling, and suspenseful describe this original absorbing story. Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for my copy.
March 11, 2025
I didn't realize until after I read the about the author section that Melissa Larsen's debut was Shutter which is actually a book I loved! I was drawn in by the cover of The Lost House and stayed for the mystery and the writing. Tension is thick throughout this entire slow burning story, and I loved that this was set in Iceland. It created a very atmospheric quality that I couldn’t help but love and I was a fan of the way the author brought the landscape to life along with the plot.
The audiobook version is a banger, and it has our talented Saskia Maarleveld at the helm. I love her narration any day, but I think she did an exceptionally good job voicing Agnes and this book as a whole. It was great to listen since the pace is on the slower side, and I would recommend going audio with this one! I don’t know if I was fully a fan of Agnes, but I loved that she was a flawed character just like us. Her hunt for the truth brought along some crazy twists and I was very satisfied with the conclusion. 🚩I would definitely make sure to check triggers before reading.🚩
Read this if you enjoy Nordic Noir, relatable characters, and podcast elements!
Audiobook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary eBook and advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The audiobook version is a banger, and it has our talented Saskia Maarleveld at the helm. I love her narration any day, but I think she did an exceptionally good job voicing Agnes and this book as a whole. It was great to listen since the pace is on the slower side, and I would recommend going audio with this one! I don’t know if I was fully a fan of Agnes, but I loved that she was a flawed character just like us. Her hunt for the truth brought along some crazy twists and I was very satisfied with the conclusion. 🚩I would definitely make sure to check triggers before reading.🚩
Read this if you enjoy Nordic Noir, relatable characters, and podcast elements!
Audiobook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary eBook and advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 15, 2025
The Lost House takes place in Iceland and I loved how Larsen truly transported me. The scenery she created was astonishing and a character in and of itself. It's also a mystery that's a two for one - Agnes' family tragedy from forty years ago implicating her grandfather as a murderer and the current mystery of a missing local girl.
There is a lot of history woven into the pages of The Lost House and it was important to keep names and timelines straight, which felt somewhat challenging at times with the audio. This may have been a better choice for a physical/ebook read rather than the audio, though I did think the narrator did a good job. It was just a complex story with a lot of moving pieces and characters and backstories. The audio was also fairly long, clocking in at 10 hours, which could give another push for reading rather than listening.
The writing was really well done with this one but it was a slower plot. There wasn't a ton of action - just researching and conversation and Agnes struggling with her pain and addiction.
Overall, I enjoyed this story but I'm not sure it will stick with me. Thank you to MacMillan Audio, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for the copy.
There is a lot of history woven into the pages of The Lost House and it was important to keep names and timelines straight, which felt somewhat challenging at times with the audio. This may have been a better choice for a physical/ebook read rather than the audio, though I did think the narrator did a good job. It was just a complex story with a lot of moving pieces and characters and backstories. The audio was also fairly long, clocking in at 10 hours, which could give another push for reading rather than listening.
The writing was really well done with this one but it was a slower plot. There wasn't a ton of action - just researching and conversation and Agnes struggling with her pain and addiction.
Overall, I enjoyed this story but I'm not sure it will stick with me. Thank you to MacMillan Audio, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for the copy.
June 4, 2025
A sleepy Icelandic town provides the setting for two horrific crimes taking place 50 years apart.
Obsession prompts Agnes Glin to journey from California, where she has lived her entire life, to the remote village of Bifrost, Iceland, in response to an offer from the passionate true crime podcaster, Nora Carver.
Agnes’ grandfather, Einar Paisson, was the main suspect in one of Iceland’s most notorious and yet unsolved cases, the murder of his wife, Marie Hvass, and their infant daughter, Agnes Einarsdóttir, immortalized in a haunting photograph entitled the “Frozen Madonna and Child.” The entire village believed that Einar had murdered his wife and child, although it had never been proven. Then, when Einar and Magnús left for America, selling their land to a relative and never returning to Iceland, the unofficial verdict against Einar was solidified. Though yet unproven...Einar was undoubtably guilty. This horror has cast a shadow over the Glin family for decades. Because Agne's own near-fatal surfing accident has necessitated a long, boring recovery and led to what Agnes considers a "broken existence", Nora’s offer feels like a lifeline, as well as a chance to learn the details of her family’s past and perhaps clear her grandfather’s name.
When she arrives in Iceland, another village-wide search is in progress. A young woman, Asa Gunnarsdottir, has gone missing, and everyone is looking for her. Nora tells Agnes, “She was reported missing yesterday, and I have reason to believe it’s connected to your grandmother’s case.” Although she’s fighting jet lag and is experiencing the strangeness of being in a place where she doesn’t speak or understand a single word of the language, Agnes doesn’t want to be constrained by Nora’s interviews. She meets Ingvar, the boy who discovered the two bodies; and his mother who is now suffering from dementia; Thor Thorsen, a relative of Einar’s; and his father, Thor Senior, who is now in a nursing home and angrily blames his son for putting him there. Agnes is at first, worried that Nora’s interest in the new case might distract her from the original crime, but Nora is soon pulled into this equally baffling case of the new disappearance.
With its psychological depth, and vivid portrayals of the people and the places, this mystery/ thriller is perfect Nordic noir. The combustible combination of hard-charging, Nora and skittish, Agnes adds additional tension to what is already a story packed full of surprises and undertones of menace.
Obsession prompts Agnes Glin to journey from California, where she has lived her entire life, to the remote village of Bifrost, Iceland, in response to an offer from the passionate true crime podcaster, Nora Carver.
Agnes’ grandfather, Einar Paisson, was the main suspect in one of Iceland’s most notorious and yet unsolved cases, the murder of his wife, Marie Hvass, and their infant daughter, Agnes Einarsdóttir, immortalized in a haunting photograph entitled the “Frozen Madonna and Child.” The entire village believed that Einar had murdered his wife and child, although it had never been proven. Then, when Einar and Magnús left for America, selling their land to a relative and never returning to Iceland, the unofficial verdict against Einar was solidified. Though yet unproven...Einar was undoubtably guilty. This horror has cast a shadow over the Glin family for decades. Because Agne's own near-fatal surfing accident has necessitated a long, boring recovery and led to what Agnes considers a "broken existence", Nora’s offer feels like a lifeline, as well as a chance to learn the details of her family’s past and perhaps clear her grandfather’s name.
When she arrives in Iceland, another village-wide search is in progress. A young woman, Asa Gunnarsdottir, has gone missing, and everyone is looking for her. Nora tells Agnes, “She was reported missing yesterday, and I have reason to believe it’s connected to your grandmother’s case.” Although she’s fighting jet lag and is experiencing the strangeness of being in a place where she doesn’t speak or understand a single word of the language, Agnes doesn’t want to be constrained by Nora’s interviews. She meets Ingvar, the boy who discovered the two bodies; and his mother who is now suffering from dementia; Thor Thorsen, a relative of Einar’s; and his father, Thor Senior, who is now in a nursing home and angrily blames his son for putting him there. Agnes is at first, worried that Nora’s interest in the new case might distract her from the original crime, but Nora is soon pulled into this equally baffling case of the new disappearance.
With its psychological depth, and vivid portrayals of the people and the places, this mystery/ thriller is perfect Nordic noir. The combustible combination of hard-charging, Nora and skittish, Agnes adds additional tension to what is already a story packed full of surprises and undertones of menace.
October 29, 2024
If you are on the lookout for a chilling winter themed thriller in a scenic location this is definitely a good choice for you!
Set in Iceland, “The Lost House” follows Agnes, a 20 something year old from California who has agreed to work with a true crime podcaster Nora in regards to an unsolved 40 year old murder case.
Nora wants to interview Agnes as she is the granddaughter of the main suspect, the whole town is in agreement that her grandfather killed his wife and child and then fled to the states surely after.
After his recent passing Agnes is hoping to reconnect with her grandfather by visiting the home of her ancestors and clearing his name once and for all.
I enjoyed the setting of this book, I felt cold the entire time I was reading based on the harsh winter weather highlighted throughout the entire book. I imagine trying to solve crime and escaping murderers during the harsh winter snow would make things extra difficult for those involved.
I enjoyed the interview scenes where Agnes and Nora would ask locals questions about the history of the town and the events leading up to the murders. I also enjoyed the present day missing persons case that ran adjacent to the unsolved murder as we try to untangle whether there is a connection between the two cases or pure coincidence.
There was definitely some character growth for Agnes, she seemed a little lost when she first arrived in Iceland and it was nice to see her find some footing by the end. I am not sure how I feel about Nora. Although I think she has good intentions and tries to be respectful and ethical while conducting her investigations, it also seems like she doesn’t really care about the people she interviews and isn’t too concerned about the distress and upset her actions and questions will cause them, particularly the older folk. There was something a little off about her character that I can’t put my finger on.
Thank you to St martins press and Minotaur books; and Melissa Larsen for the EARC!
Publish date: January 14th 2025
Set in Iceland, “The Lost House” follows Agnes, a 20 something year old from California who has agreed to work with a true crime podcaster Nora in regards to an unsolved 40 year old murder case.
Nora wants to interview Agnes as she is the granddaughter of the main suspect, the whole town is in agreement that her grandfather killed his wife and child and then fled to the states surely after.
After his recent passing Agnes is hoping to reconnect with her grandfather by visiting the home of her ancestors and clearing his name once and for all.
I enjoyed the setting of this book, I felt cold the entire time I was reading based on the harsh winter weather highlighted throughout the entire book. I imagine trying to solve crime and escaping murderers during the harsh winter snow would make things extra difficult for those involved.
I enjoyed the interview scenes where Agnes and Nora would ask locals questions about the history of the town and the events leading up to the murders. I also enjoyed the present day missing persons case that ran adjacent to the unsolved murder as we try to untangle whether there is a connection between the two cases or pure coincidence.
There was definitely some character growth for Agnes, she seemed a little lost when she first arrived in Iceland and it was nice to see her find some footing by the end. I am not sure how I feel about Nora. Although I think she has good intentions and tries to be respectful and ethical while conducting her investigations, it also seems like she doesn’t really care about the people she interviews and isn’t too concerned about the distress and upset her actions and questions will cause them, particularly the older folk. There was something a little off about her character that I can’t put my finger on.
Thank you to St martins press and Minotaur books; and Melissa Larsen for the EARC!
Publish date: January 14th 2025
January 15, 2025
Can Agnes really find out who killed her grandmother and niece forty years ago in Iceland?
Agnes is asked to come to Iceland for an interview by a podcaster who is intent on finding the truth.
The podcaster wants to rehash the story that Agnes's grandfather was accused of killing his wife and baby daughter. He left for the United States not long after, and everyone agreed he left because he was the murderer.
There are no clues then or now, but when Agnes meets an older woman who thinks she is her grandmother, something she says has Agnes re-thinking everything.
And...along with the resurfacing of the old murder, a teenager goes missing on the same exact day.
Could this be planned to coincide with the brutal murder from years ago?
A lot of what if's and things happening, but the book really didn't hold my interest, but I kept reading. I knew something had to happen.
What happened was a lot of revelations, and ending tension that was the best part of the book, but it still wasn't a favorite. It was too vague and dragged out even though the story ended up being good. 3/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Agnes is asked to come to Iceland for an interview by a podcaster who is intent on finding the truth.
The podcaster wants to rehash the story that Agnes's grandfather was accused of killing his wife and baby daughter. He left for the United States not long after, and everyone agreed he left because he was the murderer.
There are no clues then or now, but when Agnes meets an older woman who thinks she is her grandmother, something she says has Agnes re-thinking everything.
And...along with the resurfacing of the old murder, a teenager goes missing on the same exact day.
Could this be planned to coincide with the brutal murder from years ago?
A lot of what if's and things happening, but the book really didn't hold my interest, but I kept reading. I knew something had to happen.
What happened was a lot of revelations, and ending tension that was the best part of the book, but it still wasn't a favorite. It was too vague and dragged out even though the story ended up being good. 3/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
did-not-finish
January 29, 2025DNF @ p191
Finished Reading
Pre-Read notes
I can't remember requesting this one, but I imagine I was probably drawn to the cold setting, which I love. Especially in horror books, but I was wrong about the genre here. It's actually a mystery, which doesn't tend to be my cup of tea.
Final Review
Review summary and recommendations
I hope I haunt you. p6
Oh this book did haunt me, with its terrible grammar and syntax, right up to the moment I stopped reading it and put it on my DNF shelf.
Reading Notes
Three (or less) things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. The house before her is large and impossibly modern. p31 What does this mean, exactly? That modifier, "impossibly," is just impossible. I mean, this construction is illogical. Nothing can be impossibly anything. Unless you mean to make an illogical statement, like, "I am impossibly a tomato." I suppose technically a thing could be improbably something, though. Like, "Readers will improbably finish this book." Also, this construction appears three different times, making it a tic. An unpleasant one.
2. This book contains more than 250 instances of the word "there's" and more than 600 instances of "its" or "it's". Two of these constructions are passive, too many of which seriously weakens even the strongest prose.
3. DNF @ p191 The grammar and syntax in this book beg for attention. Where was the editor on all those passive constructions? It's impossible to ignore them, there are too many, so I think someone fell down on the job here.
Rating: DNF @ p191
Recommend? no
Finished: Jan 27 '25
Thank you to the author Melissa Larson, publishers St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of THE LOST HOUSE. All views are mine.
---------------
Finished Reading
Pre-Read notes
I can't remember requesting this one, but I imagine I was probably drawn to the cold setting, which I love. Especially in horror books, but I was wrong about the genre here. It's actually a mystery, which doesn't tend to be my cup of tea.
Final Review
Review summary and recommendations
I hope I haunt you. p6
Oh this book did haunt me, with its terrible grammar and syntax, right up to the moment I stopped reading it and put it on my DNF shelf.
Reading Notes
Three (or less) things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. The house before her is large and impossibly modern. p31 What does this mean, exactly? That modifier, "impossibly," is just impossible. I mean, this construction is illogical. Nothing can be impossibly anything. Unless you mean to make an illogical statement, like, "I am impossibly a tomato." I suppose technically a thing could be improbably something, though. Like, "Readers will improbably finish this book." Also, this construction appears three different times, making it a tic. An unpleasant one.
2. This book contains more than 250 instances of the word "there's" and more than 600 instances of "its" or "it's". Two of these constructions are passive, too many of which seriously weakens even the strongest prose.
3. DNF @ p191 The grammar and syntax in this book beg for attention. Where was the editor on all those passive constructions? It's impossible to ignore them, there are too many, so I think someone fell down on the job here.
Rating: DNF @ p191
Recommend? no
Finished: Jan 27 '25
Thank you to the author Melissa Larson, publishers St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of THE LOST HOUSE. All views are mine.
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January 13, 2025
Thank you to the author and publisher for this arc!
This is a wonderful pick for all of the snowy, wintery vibes and I absolutely loved the Icelandic setting contained in this thriller.
Although I felt the narrator was successful with this story as an audiobook, I had some trouble connecting with the story itself. The middle of the book felt like a too long sequence of conversations that didn’t keep my attention at times.
Otherwise, I did enjoy the writer’s storytelling and really appreciated the unique Nordic experience this book offers.
3.5 🌟 rounded down!
This is a wonderful pick for all of the snowy, wintery vibes and I absolutely loved the Icelandic setting contained in this thriller.
Although I felt the narrator was successful with this story as an audiobook, I had some trouble connecting with the story itself. The middle of the book felt like a too long sequence of conversations that didn’t keep my attention at times.
Otherwise, I did enjoy the writer’s storytelling and really appreciated the unique Nordic experience this book offers.
3.5 🌟 rounded down!
January 3, 2025
Great ice-chilling vibes for winter reading!! THE LOST HOUSE, a Nordic noir mystery/crime thriller, is an atmospheric, dark and sinister tale, unsettling in all the right ways. Melissa Larsens’ story of a 1979 double murder dubbed “the frozen Madonna and child” (locals accused her husband of the crime) + a new missing persons case, both taking place in Bifrost, Iceland, 40 years apart.
Set during winter in an isolated snow covered landscape completely covered in darkness 17 hours per day, Larsen fully sets the mood and tone for this eerie tale. Our main character Agnes travels from California to Bifrost on the fortieth anniversary of her family’s unsolved double murders, where during a party at the “murder house,” Asa, a young female college student goes missing. She thinks the missing girl and her grandmother/infant aunts’ cold case are related. She wants to discover the truth behind the murders in ‘79 to prove her beloved late-grandfathers innocence. It’s there in Bifrost that Agnes meets up with Nora. She’s a true crime podcaster from California who wants Agnes’ take on her family’s cold case (and has actually helped police solve a cold case). It’s every bit small-town drama, rumors and exposing decades old secrets. This is one of those stories that will stay with me a long time.🥶 4.5 stars — Pub. 1/14/25
I received an arc copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Set during winter in an isolated snow covered landscape completely covered in darkness 17 hours per day, Larsen fully sets the mood and tone for this eerie tale. Our main character Agnes travels from California to Bifrost on the fortieth anniversary of her family’s unsolved double murders, where during a party at the “murder house,” Asa, a young female college student goes missing. She thinks the missing girl and her grandmother/infant aunts’ cold case are related. She wants to discover the truth behind the murders in ‘79 to prove her beloved late-grandfathers innocence. It’s there in Bifrost that Agnes meets up with Nora. She’s a true crime podcaster from California who wants Agnes’ take on her family’s cold case (and has actually helped police solve a cold case). It’s every bit small-town drama, rumors and exposing decades old secrets. This is one of those stories that will stay with me a long time.🥶 4.5 stars — Pub. 1/14/25
I received an arc copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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