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Mirrin Bank #1
Countdown
Danish intelligence races to stop a dirty bomb in Copenhagen before heads of state gather for the Queen's jubilee. Meanwhile, a 5,000-year-old calendar is unearthed. It's counting down. To Ragnarok.
Countdown is a must-read for fans of Dan Brown, Brad Thor, and Stieg Larsson, a gripping tale of international intrigue, ancient mysteries, and unbreakable bonds.
When journalist Kurt Østergaard's stepfather dies, he leaves behind clues to a devastating secret that could shake Denmark to its core. As Kurt investigates, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy reaching the highest levels of power.
Søren Storm, a former UN weapons inspector, haunted by his past, gets caught up in the mystery when stolen radioactive material and a planned attack are uncovered, With his near term pregnant girlfriend Birgitte, Storm must navigate a treacherous web of deceit to stop the unthinkable.
As the conspiracy deepens and time runs out, Kurt and Storm must risk everything to unravel the plot. An act of terror in Copenhagen forces them to trust Birgitte's mother Bodil, the CEO of Mirrin Bank with secrets of her own. They race to uncover the truth, confronting ancient prophecies and forbidden knowledge that could change history. Kurt, Storm, Birgitte and Bodil realize the attack is just the beginning, and the mastermind may be closer than they imagined. They must confront the past to uncover a truth powerful men will kill to keep hidden.
From the hidden bunkers under Copenhagen to the icy wilderness of Greenland, Countdown takes readers on a pulse-pounding ride through Danish history and culture. With razor-sharp prose Ottosen weaves together Norse mythology, Mayan doomsday prophecies, and the real-life history of Denmark's Stay Behind groups into a thriller that is both grounded in reality and wildly entertaining.
REQUEST Countdown on NetGalley today and experience the suspense, twists, and characters that have made Ottosen Denmark's master of the thriller. But be warned: once you start, you won't be able to stop until you uncover the final, shocking truth.
Countdown is translated from Danish by the Kirkus-Award finalist and Mildred L. Batchelder Honor recipient, Sinéad Quirke Køngeskov.
WARNING: Contains descriptions of sex and violence.
**** TAGS ****
International espionage, Terrorism, Geopolitical Crises, CIA, NATO, Vikings, Norse mythology, Mayans, Police investigations, Crises Management, Radioactivity, Stay Behind network, Ancient documents, Danish prehistory, the Middle ages, Danish Church history, Danish Royal family, Danish WW2 Resistant Fighters, Iranian Revolutionary Guard, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Danish Defense Forces, Danish Intelligence Service, Copenhagen.
Countdown is book #1 of the Mirrin Bank trilogy.
About Mirrin Bank trilogy
The Mirrin Bank trilogy spans fourteen days up to Christmas. COUNTDOWN follows the first seven days. ANGLES OF THE APOCALYPSE and ANTI-CHAOS shares the next seven days.
Countdown is a must-read for fans of Dan Brown, Brad Thor, and Stieg Larsson, a gripping tale of international intrigue, ancient mysteries, and unbreakable bonds.
When journalist Kurt Østergaard's stepfather dies, he leaves behind clues to a devastating secret that could shake Denmark to its core. As Kurt investigates, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy reaching the highest levels of power.
Søren Storm, a former UN weapons inspector, haunted by his past, gets caught up in the mystery when stolen radioactive material and a planned attack are uncovered, With his near term pregnant girlfriend Birgitte, Storm must navigate a treacherous web of deceit to stop the unthinkable.
As the conspiracy deepens and time runs out, Kurt and Storm must risk everything to unravel the plot. An act of terror in Copenhagen forces them to trust Birgitte's mother Bodil, the CEO of Mirrin Bank with secrets of her own. They race to uncover the truth, confronting ancient prophecies and forbidden knowledge that could change history. Kurt, Storm, Birgitte and Bodil realize the attack is just the beginning, and the mastermind may be closer than they imagined. They must confront the past to uncover a truth powerful men will kill to keep hidden.
From the hidden bunkers under Copenhagen to the icy wilderness of Greenland, Countdown takes readers on a pulse-pounding ride through Danish history and culture. With razor-sharp prose Ottosen weaves together Norse mythology, Mayan doomsday prophecies, and the real-life history of Denmark's Stay Behind groups into a thriller that is both grounded in reality and wildly entertaining.
REQUEST Countdown on NetGalley today and experience the suspense, twists, and characters that have made Ottosen Denmark's master of the thriller. But be warned: once you start, you won't be able to stop until you uncover the final, shocking truth.
Countdown is translated from Danish by the Kirkus-Award finalist and Mildred L. Batchelder Honor recipient, Sinéad Quirke Køngeskov.
WARNING: Contains descriptions of sex and violence.
**** TAGS ****
International espionage, Terrorism, Geopolitical Crises, CIA, NATO, Vikings, Norse mythology, Mayans, Police investigations, Crises Management, Radioactivity, Stay Behind network, Ancient documents, Danish prehistory, the Middle ages, Danish Church history, Danish Royal family, Danish WW2 Resistant Fighters, Iranian Revolutionary Guard, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Danish Defense Forces, Danish Intelligence Service, Copenhagen.
Countdown is book #1 of the Mirrin Bank trilogy.
About Mirrin Bank trilogy
The Mirrin Bank trilogy spans fourteen days up to Christmas. COUNTDOWN follows the first seven days. ANGLES OF THE APOCALYPSE and ANTI-CHAOS shares the next seven days.
428 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
11 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 22, 2025
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Johan Ottosen, and BooksGoSocial Audio for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Always eager to find a new author, particularly one with a Scandinavian background, I turned to the first novel in this trilogy by Johan Ottosen. The book is what I might call a translated popular fiction piece, depicting a number of adventurous settings and keeping the reader in the middle of the action. A former UN employee, a journalist, and a curious woman all fill the pages with their respective perspectives on a mystery that has both historic and modern-day aspects. A great launch of the series that has me eager to get an English copy of the next book in the series.
Denmark awaits the official celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee, sure to be as exciting as it is anticipated. However, something darker lurks in the shadows, which begins when a man commits suicide on a park bench a few years ago. Journalist Kurt Østergaard will stop at nothing to uncover the truth behind his stepfather’s apparent suicide, though he worries there is something more to the event. He’s soon made aware that a mystery that could turn Denmark and the world on its head is about to be unleashed. All this tied to the recent discovery of a calendar dating millennia in the past, which has an End of Days moment in the not too distant future.
Meanwhile, former UN weapons inspector, Søren Storm, is trying to come to terms with the upcoming birth of his child, an event he has long anticipated. However, his girlfriend, Birgitte, wants him out of her way as she prepares for the impending arrival. When news comes across Storm’s radar about a plot to attack the jubilee with a dirty bomb, he cannot sit idly by. He must act and ensure that all Danes are safe, as well as the many ignitaries who are on their way to Copenhagen.
When Storm and Østergaard join forces, they discover a chilling truth that will have to be stopped in short order. Nothing is certain and neither man can waste a moment. Pulling on their respective experiences, they will have to locate the culprits and neutralise things before they get out of hand. Unbeknownst to the public, the jubilee could be the extermination of massive numbers, with a larger plan that has been forecasted in this 5000 year old document. Ottosen delivers a stellar thriller that is sure to keep the reader hooked and wondering where things are headed in the second novel.
I enjoy the discovery of great authors, particularly those who present strong stories for all to enjoy. Johan Ottosen provides readers with a great launching pad with this novel, introducing them to history, thrills, and just the right amount of humour. The story works well with a strong narrative base, leaving the reader to bask in the various twists and excitement. This helps propel things forward and keeps the reader hooked as they learn more about the various characters. Numerous perspectives thrive through the various eyes of those who play key roles in the story. I am eager to see how each grow as the series progresses. Plot points prove useful and pave the way for a great story, complemented by short chapters to keep the momentum going. The surprises that await the reader fuel a superior reading experience and I am pleased to have discovered it. I await locating an English translation of the next novel, to continue the adventure.
Kudos, Mr. Ottosen, for a great start to the adventure!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Always eager to find a new author, particularly one with a Scandinavian background, I turned to the first novel in this trilogy by Johan Ottosen. The book is what I might call a translated popular fiction piece, depicting a number of adventurous settings and keeping the reader in the middle of the action. A former UN employee, a journalist, and a curious woman all fill the pages with their respective perspectives on a mystery that has both historic and modern-day aspects. A great launch of the series that has me eager to get an English copy of the next book in the series.
Denmark awaits the official celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee, sure to be as exciting as it is anticipated. However, something darker lurks in the shadows, which begins when a man commits suicide on a park bench a few years ago. Journalist Kurt Østergaard will stop at nothing to uncover the truth behind his stepfather’s apparent suicide, though he worries there is something more to the event. He’s soon made aware that a mystery that could turn Denmark and the world on its head is about to be unleashed. All this tied to the recent discovery of a calendar dating millennia in the past, which has an End of Days moment in the not too distant future.
Meanwhile, former UN weapons inspector, Søren Storm, is trying to come to terms with the upcoming birth of his child, an event he has long anticipated. However, his girlfriend, Birgitte, wants him out of her way as she prepares for the impending arrival. When news comes across Storm’s radar about a plot to attack the jubilee with a dirty bomb, he cannot sit idly by. He must act and ensure that all Danes are safe, as well as the many ignitaries who are on their way to Copenhagen.
When Storm and Østergaard join forces, they discover a chilling truth that will have to be stopped in short order. Nothing is certain and neither man can waste a moment. Pulling on their respective experiences, they will have to locate the culprits and neutralise things before they get out of hand. Unbeknownst to the public, the jubilee could be the extermination of massive numbers, with a larger plan that has been forecasted in this 5000 year old document. Ottosen delivers a stellar thriller that is sure to keep the reader hooked and wondering where things are headed in the second novel.
I enjoy the discovery of great authors, particularly those who present strong stories for all to enjoy. Johan Ottosen provides readers with a great launching pad with this novel, introducing them to history, thrills, and just the right amount of humour. The story works well with a strong narrative base, leaving the reader to bask in the various twists and excitement. This helps propel things forward and keeps the reader hooked as they learn more about the various characters. Numerous perspectives thrive through the various eyes of those who play key roles in the story. I am eager to see how each grow as the series progresses. Plot points prove useful and pave the way for a great story, complemented by short chapters to keep the momentum going. The surprises that await the reader fuel a superior reading experience and I am pleased to have discovered it. I await locating an English translation of the next novel, to continue the adventure.
Kudos, Mr. Ottosen, for a great start to the adventure!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
June 30, 2024
"Countdown" by Johan Ottosen is a fast-paced thriller that weaves historical intrigue and political turmoil together. It has all the ingredients that I love in a captivating thriller. I've seen his work compared to Dan Brown's "The DaVinci Code" and after reading Countdown, I can see the similarities. But have no fear, these are completely different books, but if you're a fan of Dan Brown's work, you'll enjoy Johan Ottosen's.
The story follows Søren Storm, who worked with the Danish security intelligence service, and Kurt Østergaard, a journalist who stumbles upon a mysterious message from his stepfather with clues to unearthing a conspiracy that could shake the country to its core. There are a few other characters that you follow, but these two were the most entertaining. The book has a few too many characters and unfortunately, a few plots got a bit too convoluted. Ottosen breaks the chapters down into small bites, allowing the reader to move quickly through the story, keeping a high-paced tempo so the reader is never bored.
The one aspect of the book that caught my eye was the incredible research that went into this book. Ottosen provides rich descriptions, creating a vibrant, living world with his words as the reader is transported from the streets of Copenhagen to the wilderness of Greenland. Each chapter provides a QR code that links the reader to various, real places via Google Maps. This allows you to get immersed in the story as you can picture yourself with the aid of this resource.
Countdown by Johan Ottosen is a gripping novel that effortlessly blends Norse mythology, Mayan prophecies, ancient mysteries, and geopolitics to create a pulse-pounding thriller that was hard to put down! While the book may suffer by being a bit overstuffed with characters and plot threads, it ultimately comes together in a truly satisfying way.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Søren Storm, who worked with the Danish security intelligence service, and Kurt Østergaard, a journalist who stumbles upon a mysterious message from his stepfather with clues to unearthing a conspiracy that could shake the country to its core. There are a few other characters that you follow, but these two were the most entertaining. The book has a few too many characters and unfortunately, a few plots got a bit too convoluted. Ottosen breaks the chapters down into small bites, allowing the reader to move quickly through the story, keeping a high-paced tempo so the reader is never bored.
The one aspect of the book that caught my eye was the incredible research that went into this book. Ottosen provides rich descriptions, creating a vibrant, living world with his words as the reader is transported from the streets of Copenhagen to the wilderness of Greenland. Each chapter provides a QR code that links the reader to various, real places via Google Maps. This allows you to get immersed in the story as you can picture yourself with the aid of this resource.
Countdown by Johan Ottosen is a gripping novel that effortlessly blends Norse mythology, Mayan prophecies, ancient mysteries, and geopolitics to create a pulse-pounding thriller that was hard to put down! While the book may suffer by being a bit overstuffed with characters and plot threads, it ultimately comes together in a truly satisfying way.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2019
Personligt var jeg en smule skeptisk, da jeg fik Stenens tid i hænderne. Jeg mener, hvor mange bøger kan egentligt skrives i nogenlunde samme stil som Da Vinci koden? Men Johan Ottosen begravede hurtigt min skepsis. Med religionen i centrum er det lykkedes ham at skrive en konspirationskrimi, der med højt tempo og åndeløs spænding fastholder læseren fra første side.
Bogen er opdelt i mange korte kapitler, og handlingen springer mellem de forskellige karakterer og historier. Det kan lyde forvirrende, men Johan Ottosen får det til at virke, specielt understøttet af det flydende og letlæselige sprog. Bogen er skabt på et meget velfungerede plot, men også på reelle historiske detaljer og kulturelle referencer.
Der er action for alle pengene og mange af scenerne har en nærmest filmisk følelse. Det er velfungerende for stemningen og underbygges af de meget maleriske miljø- og stemningsbeskrivelser. Der er tydeligvis foretaget en meget grundig research inden skrivningen (selvom jeg dog aldrig har oplevet en morgenmad på Københavns Politigård som den Politiinspektør Lillelund får).
I bogen findes i hvert kapitel en QR kode, så læseren løbende kan følge karakterernes positioner. Det gav ikke det store til bogen for mig personligt, men jeg syntes det var et interessant tiltag at blande teknologien med det skrevne ord. Alt i alt en fantastisk læseoplevelse, der udover at være underholdende også fik denne læser til at reflektere over vores kulturelle og religiøse ophav.
Bogen er opdelt i mange korte kapitler, og handlingen springer mellem de forskellige karakterer og historier. Det kan lyde forvirrende, men Johan Ottosen får det til at virke, specielt understøttet af det flydende og letlæselige sprog. Bogen er skabt på et meget velfungerede plot, men også på reelle historiske detaljer og kulturelle referencer.
Der er action for alle pengene og mange af scenerne har en nærmest filmisk følelse. Det er velfungerende for stemningen og underbygges af de meget maleriske miljø- og stemningsbeskrivelser. Der er tydeligvis foretaget en meget grundig research inden skrivningen (selvom jeg dog aldrig har oplevet en morgenmad på Københavns Politigård som den Politiinspektør Lillelund får).
I bogen findes i hvert kapitel en QR kode, så læseren løbende kan følge karakterernes positioner. Det gav ikke det store til bogen for mig personligt, men jeg syntes det var et interessant tiltag at blande teknologien med det skrevne ord. Alt i alt en fantastisk læseoplevelse, der udover at være underholdende også fik denne læser til at reflektere over vores kulturelle og religiøse ophav.
October 23, 2020
Forventede egentlig højtravende spekulationspladder, men plottet hænger fint sammen, sproget er lydefrit og selskabet fremragende – farten måske en my for hæsblæsende, men jeg tager bombesikkert to’eren med i seng.
June 29, 2024
Countdown is an exciting political thriller set in Denmark. There was an incredible amount of research done that really makes you feel like you are in the adventure with the characters as they weave and move about trying to solve the mystery. If you would like to read a face-paced story in a beautiful country, this book is for you.
Thanks to Netgalley for this free arc in exchange for my review.
Thanks to Netgalley for this free arc in exchange for my review.
February 19, 2025
Finished reading: February 19th 2025
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and HOI/Superlux in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
REVIEW
February 24, 2025
Countdown by Johan Ottosen (Audiobook)
Mysteriousness and intrigue linger as Kurt Østegaard is left a mystery to unravel by his stepfather. A journalist by trade, Kurt’s natural propensity to investigate takes hold. Woven into the fabric of this action adventure, which can be compared to the likes of Dan Brown’s work, is Søren Storm. Storm and his partner Birgitte are launched headfirst into the mysterious death of a known criminal struck down by a radiation treatment machine gone amok. A lengthy list of centuries-old political coercion and cover-ups involving the kings' legitimate ancestry and titles starts to surface. Who is at the root of the evil planned to wipe out the monarchy?
Ahh yes, I remember you well. Dan Brown was my reading obsession. The story's development, involving lost records or artifacts from bygone eras somehow gaining relevance to contemporary society, was fantastic. I didn’t just stop there; I kept reading similar authors. Steve Berry’s Cotton Malone series comes to mind. For an avid reader, it was a tremendous period. However, like most things, the market became oversaturated with this Indiana Jones narrative, and I became disinterested in it. 2025 is a new day! Reading the description of Countdown gave me old-school vibes. My ears perked up as I strapped on my daily hiking gear and set out on a new adventure. Folks, it is, as I remember, a story that brought back the warm fuzzies of yesteryear.
Ottosen has done a great job of giving the reader or listener just enough details. Coaxing questions to form, creating tense feelings. The novel is told from various points of view, each character with a set of complex issues to solve. Tinges of exploration softly coat our reading palette, and the religious undertones of a world blooming with intrinsic devilish behavior vying for power and control take grip. The answers are there, but they come with a slow approach. The author’s command teases our demands to solve the puzzle only to hit a proverbial speed bump, jarring our senses with another problem demanding our immediate attention. With much to unpack, at times it feels overwhelming. Perhaps liken it to eavesdropping on a conversation where you are the focal point and can’t quite make out all the words. Your OCD won’t let you rest until you figure it out. Perhaps that is the beauty of these types of novels: the need to navigate in an unfamiliar environment and somehow triumph with a well-timed a-ha moment.
The audiobook version was a delight. The book narrated by Jeffrey Machado delivered an excellent performance. I felt his voice to be soothing, and his cadence was slow and precise. I am sure that there might be trepidations about some pronunciation issues with Danish names or words, but these were certainly not deal breakers for me.
The con. It threw me for a loop. Remember my visit to the land of Dan Brown? Within that realm, I don’t recall a major amount of sexual activity. Wow! There are a couple of scenes at the beginning that left me speechless. I have now arrived in the land of Johan Ottosen, no doubt about it. The novel’s sexually charged appetite chewed me up and spit me out. It does not last throughout but more towards the start, which is curious. If I had any misgivings about this type of direction, would I stop listening? Perhaps this could cause some alienation among readers and listeners alike.
In summation, I recall someone comparing his writing style to Dan Brown on steroids. That is a perfect assessment, and I am in total agreement. I cook my eggs on seven for that nice, controllable scrambled egg goodness. However, every once in a while I need to live on the edge. I fire up that stove to ten and let it rip. Will it burn? Maybe, but you only live once, right? I am giving this 4 out of 5 stars! Recommended listening!
Many thanks to BooksGoSocial Audio through NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.
Mysteriousness and intrigue linger as Kurt Østegaard is left a mystery to unravel by his stepfather. A journalist by trade, Kurt’s natural propensity to investigate takes hold. Woven into the fabric of this action adventure, which can be compared to the likes of Dan Brown’s work, is Søren Storm. Storm and his partner Birgitte are launched headfirst into the mysterious death of a known criminal struck down by a radiation treatment machine gone amok. A lengthy list of centuries-old political coercion and cover-ups involving the kings' legitimate ancestry and titles starts to surface. Who is at the root of the evil planned to wipe out the monarchy?
Ahh yes, I remember you well. Dan Brown was my reading obsession. The story's development, involving lost records or artifacts from bygone eras somehow gaining relevance to contemporary society, was fantastic. I didn’t just stop there; I kept reading similar authors. Steve Berry’s Cotton Malone series comes to mind. For an avid reader, it was a tremendous period. However, like most things, the market became oversaturated with this Indiana Jones narrative, and I became disinterested in it. 2025 is a new day! Reading the description of Countdown gave me old-school vibes. My ears perked up as I strapped on my daily hiking gear and set out on a new adventure. Folks, it is, as I remember, a story that brought back the warm fuzzies of yesteryear.
Ottosen has done a great job of giving the reader or listener just enough details. Coaxing questions to form, creating tense feelings. The novel is told from various points of view, each character with a set of complex issues to solve. Tinges of exploration softly coat our reading palette, and the religious undertones of a world blooming with intrinsic devilish behavior vying for power and control take grip. The answers are there, but they come with a slow approach. The author’s command teases our demands to solve the puzzle only to hit a proverbial speed bump, jarring our senses with another problem demanding our immediate attention. With much to unpack, at times it feels overwhelming. Perhaps liken it to eavesdropping on a conversation where you are the focal point and can’t quite make out all the words. Your OCD won’t let you rest until you figure it out. Perhaps that is the beauty of these types of novels: the need to navigate in an unfamiliar environment and somehow triumph with a well-timed a-ha moment.
The audiobook version was a delight. The book narrated by Jeffrey Machado delivered an excellent performance. I felt his voice to be soothing, and his cadence was slow and precise. I am sure that there might be trepidations about some pronunciation issues with Danish names or words, but these were certainly not deal breakers for me.
The con. It threw me for a loop. Remember my visit to the land of Dan Brown? Within that realm, I don’t recall a major amount of sexual activity. Wow! There are a couple of scenes at the beginning that left me speechless. I have now arrived in the land of Johan Ottosen, no doubt about it. The novel’s sexually charged appetite chewed me up and spit me out. It does not last throughout but more towards the start, which is curious. If I had any misgivings about this type of direction, would I stop listening? Perhaps this could cause some alienation among readers and listeners alike.
In summation, I recall someone comparing his writing style to Dan Brown on steroids. That is a perfect assessment, and I am in total agreement. I cook my eggs on seven for that nice, controllable scrambled egg goodness. However, every once in a while I need to live on the edge. I fire up that stove to ten and let it rip. Will it burn? Maybe, but you only live once, right? I am giving this 4 out of 5 stars! Recommended listening!
Many thanks to BooksGoSocial Audio through NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.
November 17, 2020
”Stenens tid” er 1. del af trilogien Mirrin bank trilogien skrevet af Johan Ottosen. Johan Ottosen har helt klart skrevet ”Stenens tid” med inspiration fra Dan Brown og hans ”Da vinci mysteriet”. Det gør dog på ingen måde spændingsromanen mindre interessant eller mindre spændingsfyldt.
Vi befinder os i Danmark i et drønhøjt tempo. Jeg fik bogen tilsendt lige op til ”Knæk-cancer” ugen. Det helt særlige ved ”Stenens tid” er at Johan Ottosen forærede udgivelsen og dermed omsætningen af bogen til Kræftens bekæmpelses støt brysterne-kampagne.
En virkelig smuk gestus af forfatteren. At man så i tilgift støtter et rigtigt godt formål, gør kun fornøjelsen endnu større ved at læse en spændingsroman i topklasse endnu større. En sjov og interessant detalje ved bogen er at man via en QR-reader på sin telefon kan følge de steder, hvor historien foregår.
I starten af hvert kapitel kan man skanne QR koden og se et kort over hvor kapitlet foregår henne. En morsom og nytænkende detalje. Bogen introduceres med en ældre mand, der begår selvmord på en bænk i Tivoli i København.
Præcis 28 ½ måned senere befinder vi os på Christianshavn. Strålingsekspert og tidligere våbenekspert for FN Søren Storm står i sin nye lejlighed og gør klar til sin sidste arbejdsdag, inden han går på ferie og efterfølgende barsel. Hans kone Birgitte Holm er højgravid med deres første søn.
Hvad Søren endnu ikke ved er, at han skal igennem et voldsomt drama inden ferien for alvor kan starte. Journalisten på Kristeligt dagblad Kurt Østergaard var stedsøn af manden der begik selvmord i Tivoli. De har dog ikke haft så meget kontakt med hinanden, siden hans mor døde.
Kurt modtager et brev fra advokat Christoffer Willenberg. Indeni brevet ligger der en stor kuvert. Da Kurt åbner kuverten, falder der en DVD-skive ud, hvor der står :SPIL MIG FØRST! Brevet er fra Kurts afdøde stedfar Bjarne Arnesen. Bjarne pålægger Kurt at løse en opgave, som Bjarne ikke selv nåede at løse.
Det går op for Kurt at der er nogen han skal stoppe. Historien fortsætter nu på Købmagergades postcentral. Postbud Hans Jensen er mødt på arbejde. I radioen hører han om uroligheder på Nørrebro imellem politiet og nogle unge.
I kælderen på Rigshospitalet møder dagens første patient ind til strålebehandling. Hans navn er Hussan al-Nouri. Han afsoner en livstidsdom og er derfor fulgt af 2 fængselsbetjente. Al-Nouris strålebehandling går helt galt og han overlever ikke.
Som man kan fornemme på starten af ”Stenens tid” så er der rigtig mange karakterer man skal forholde sig til i starten. Man når dog ikke langt ind i bogen inden de forskellige steder og karakterer giver god mening. Herfra stiger spændingen og tempoet og siderne vendes næsten af sig selv.
”Stenens tid” er velskrevet og smækfyldt med drama og spænding hele vejen igennem. ”Stenens tid” er bestemt en page-turner når de er allerbedst med et velgennemtænkt plot. Slutningen lægger fint op til bind 2 i trilogien, ”Apokalypsens engle”.
”Stenens tid” får mine varmeste anbefalinger med på vejen som en spændingsroman i absolut topklasse.
Vurdering: 5/6 Roser.
Krimiormen.dk
Vi befinder os i Danmark i et drønhøjt tempo. Jeg fik bogen tilsendt lige op til ”Knæk-cancer” ugen. Det helt særlige ved ”Stenens tid” er at Johan Ottosen forærede udgivelsen og dermed omsætningen af bogen til Kræftens bekæmpelses støt brysterne-kampagne.
En virkelig smuk gestus af forfatteren. At man så i tilgift støtter et rigtigt godt formål, gør kun fornøjelsen endnu større ved at læse en spændingsroman i topklasse endnu større. En sjov og interessant detalje ved bogen er at man via en QR-reader på sin telefon kan følge de steder, hvor historien foregår.
I starten af hvert kapitel kan man skanne QR koden og se et kort over hvor kapitlet foregår henne. En morsom og nytænkende detalje. Bogen introduceres med en ældre mand, der begår selvmord på en bænk i Tivoli i København.
Præcis 28 ½ måned senere befinder vi os på Christianshavn. Strålingsekspert og tidligere våbenekspert for FN Søren Storm står i sin nye lejlighed og gør klar til sin sidste arbejdsdag, inden han går på ferie og efterfølgende barsel. Hans kone Birgitte Holm er højgravid med deres første søn.
Hvad Søren endnu ikke ved er, at han skal igennem et voldsomt drama inden ferien for alvor kan starte. Journalisten på Kristeligt dagblad Kurt Østergaard var stedsøn af manden der begik selvmord i Tivoli. De har dog ikke haft så meget kontakt med hinanden, siden hans mor døde.
Kurt modtager et brev fra advokat Christoffer Willenberg. Indeni brevet ligger der en stor kuvert. Da Kurt åbner kuverten, falder der en DVD-skive ud, hvor der står :SPIL MIG FØRST! Brevet er fra Kurts afdøde stedfar Bjarne Arnesen. Bjarne pålægger Kurt at løse en opgave, som Bjarne ikke selv nåede at løse.
Det går op for Kurt at der er nogen han skal stoppe. Historien fortsætter nu på Købmagergades postcentral. Postbud Hans Jensen er mødt på arbejde. I radioen hører han om uroligheder på Nørrebro imellem politiet og nogle unge.
I kælderen på Rigshospitalet møder dagens første patient ind til strålebehandling. Hans navn er Hussan al-Nouri. Han afsoner en livstidsdom og er derfor fulgt af 2 fængselsbetjente. Al-Nouris strålebehandling går helt galt og han overlever ikke.
Som man kan fornemme på starten af ”Stenens tid” så er der rigtig mange karakterer man skal forholde sig til i starten. Man når dog ikke langt ind i bogen inden de forskellige steder og karakterer giver god mening. Herfra stiger spændingen og tempoet og siderne vendes næsten af sig selv.
”Stenens tid” er velskrevet og smækfyldt med drama og spænding hele vejen igennem. ”Stenens tid” er bestemt en page-turner når de er allerbedst med et velgennemtænkt plot. Slutningen lægger fint op til bind 2 i trilogien, ”Apokalypsens engle”.
”Stenens tid” får mine varmeste anbefalinger med på vejen som en spændingsroman i absolut topklasse.
Vurdering: 5/6 Roser.
Krimiormen.dk
March 9, 2025
Countdown
Mirrin Bank #1
Johan Ottosen
The setting is Denmark Copenhagen. Readers be prepared for a fast-paced exciting tale. The main characters are Soren Storm, an intelligence officer and Kurt Ostergaard a journalist. While the citizens of Denmark are eagerly awaiting the Queen’s Jubilee there is evil at work in the background
Kurt’s stepfather went to a park, sat on a bench next to a nursing mother, pulled out a gun and shot himself. Why? That’s the question Kurt wants to answer. As a journalist it is impossible for him to let it go. In his search for an answer, he stumbles upon a strange message from his stepfather. The message leads to a conspiracy with roots in the high levels of power and an ancient calendar marking the end of the world. Soren Storm and Birgitte are called to investigate the strange death of a criminal receiving radiation treatment for cancer.
While the citizens of Denmark are eagerly awaiting the Queen’s Jubilee there is evil at work in the background
This book is being compared to “The DaVinci Code” by Dan Brown, it is easy to see why however the two books are different. There are a lot of characters in this tale, not all were necessary several were red herrings. The chapters are short. The author Johan Ottosen provides vivid descriptions; I felt as if I was walking the streets of Copenhagen and the forests of Greenland. Ottosen provides a QR code at the beginning of each chapter. The links are GPS locations. One of my favorite parts concerned organ donations. Ottosen successfully combines Norse myths and mysteries of the Mayas.
This is the first book in a series. It was originally published in print in 2012, it has now been released as an audiobook.
Thank you NetGalley for the review copy.
Mirrin Bank #1
Johan Ottosen
The setting is Denmark Copenhagen. Readers be prepared for a fast-paced exciting tale. The main characters are Soren Storm, an intelligence officer and Kurt Ostergaard a journalist. While the citizens of Denmark are eagerly awaiting the Queen’s Jubilee there is evil at work in the background
Kurt’s stepfather went to a park, sat on a bench next to a nursing mother, pulled out a gun and shot himself. Why? That’s the question Kurt wants to answer. As a journalist it is impossible for him to let it go. In his search for an answer, he stumbles upon a strange message from his stepfather. The message leads to a conspiracy with roots in the high levels of power and an ancient calendar marking the end of the world. Soren Storm and Birgitte are called to investigate the strange death of a criminal receiving radiation treatment for cancer.
While the citizens of Denmark are eagerly awaiting the Queen’s Jubilee there is evil at work in the background
This book is being compared to “The DaVinci Code” by Dan Brown, it is easy to see why however the two books are different. There are a lot of characters in this tale, not all were necessary several were red herrings. The chapters are short. The author Johan Ottosen provides vivid descriptions; I felt as if I was walking the streets of Copenhagen and the forests of Greenland. Ottosen provides a QR code at the beginning of each chapter. The links are GPS locations. One of my favorite parts concerned organ donations. Ottosen successfully combines Norse myths and mysteries of the Mayas.
This is the first book in a series. It was originally published in print in 2012, it has now been released as an audiobook.
Thank you NetGalley for the review copy.
September 6, 2024
Published September 3, 2024
My thanks to the author, NetGalley and the publisher for the free review copy.
This review is based on my reading this story and my honest feedback about it.
4.5 stars for me.
This is a fast paced thriller and follows a well trodden path. The style and format reminds of the Da Vinci code but Johan has got the story well rolled up and served with panache.
I particularly loved the idea of providing a GPS location at the head of every chapter that takes one quickly to the location on a map, in my case google maps. This innovation helped me in keeping abreast with the story without having to look up locations online.
Johan has put together a coherent conspiracy theory bound together in the story with religion as a corner post. It progresses in small short chapters that keep the ball rolling with enough history and culture thrown in to keep the reader interested and asking for more and a serious reader with enough to sink the teeth into. Somewhere the author has an eye open for the book to be translated into the big screen with proper portrayals. The story moves smoothly and the action and activities are well choreographed. I also got a feel of northern Europe with the comfortable setting of particular adult scenes which go beyond what I have normally read in a mainstream thriller, almost pornographic in feel. That it doesn't effect the books flow is a credit to the author and the deft editing. At places it does feel as if he is trying too many things but overall the content is engrossing.
There are two protagonists, one is a journalist, Kurt who gets caught up in a story as he receives a message from the dead, his step father who has diseased. The conspiracy draws him in along with Storm, our other lead who is an intelligence officer. The conspiracy envelops the ancient mysteries of the Mayas and also the Norse myths and brings all together in a palatable soup, which threatens the pillars of the state.
Fantastic reading this one.
Recommended.
My thanks to the author, NetGalley and the publisher for the free review copy.
This review is based on my reading this story and my honest feedback about it.
4.5 stars for me.
This is a fast paced thriller and follows a well trodden path. The style and format reminds of the Da Vinci code but Johan has got the story well rolled up and served with panache.
I particularly loved the idea of providing a GPS location at the head of every chapter that takes one quickly to the location on a map, in my case google maps. This innovation helped me in keeping abreast with the story without having to look up locations online.
Johan has put together a coherent conspiracy theory bound together in the story with religion as a corner post. It progresses in small short chapters that keep the ball rolling with enough history and culture thrown in to keep the reader interested and asking for more and a serious reader with enough to sink the teeth into. Somewhere the author has an eye open for the book to be translated into the big screen with proper portrayals. The story moves smoothly and the action and activities are well choreographed. I also got a feel of northern Europe with the comfortable setting of particular adult scenes which go beyond what I have normally read in a mainstream thriller, almost pornographic in feel. That it doesn't effect the books flow is a credit to the author and the deft editing. At places it does feel as if he is trying too many things but overall the content is engrossing.
There are two protagonists, one is a journalist, Kurt who gets caught up in a story as he receives a message from the dead, his step father who has diseased. The conspiracy draws him in along with Storm, our other lead who is an intelligence officer. The conspiracy envelops the ancient mysteries of the Mayas and also the Norse myths and brings all together in a palatable soup, which threatens the pillars of the state.
Fantastic reading this one.
Recommended.
January 14, 2020
Jeg så et opslag om bogen, hvor der blev skrevet: Danmarks Dan Brown, Dan Brown på speed, Man nærmest mister pusten og Dan Brown og Da Vinci Code go home. Det lød som en bog, som jeg gerne ville læse. Men jeg blev skuffet.
Jeg synes, at historien er rodet. Man springer rundt mellem forskellige scenerier, hvor man får "små klip". Hovedpersonerne lærer man aldrig at kende. De er navne og aktører - uden man kommer rigtigt ind under huden af dem. Det hele virker meget overfladisk.
Selve plottet er på nogle områder fint, men at Wotan skulle være en amerikansk gud..... Tjaa...
Teknisk er der flere ting, som jeg synes falder til jorden. En DVD-skive destruerer sig selv. Der bliver bedt om udskrifter af billeder i stedet for selve filerne.
Oplever flere situationer i bogen direkte latterlige. Man har gjort det største fund i mange år - og beder om chokoladekiks. Man lytter ikke til fagfolk, men indleder diskussioner med dem. Og hvordan de nærmest pornografiske scener finder vej til bog - og deres betydning for historien - har jeg endnu ikke forstået.
Jeg valgte at høre den færdig - men sidder ikke i så endeløs spænding, at jeg har behov for at høre fortsættelsen.
Jeg synes, at historien er rodet. Man springer rundt mellem forskellige scenerier, hvor man får "små klip". Hovedpersonerne lærer man aldrig at kende. De er navne og aktører - uden man kommer rigtigt ind under huden af dem. Det hele virker meget overfladisk.
Selve plottet er på nogle områder fint, men at Wotan skulle være en amerikansk gud..... Tjaa...
Teknisk er der flere ting, som jeg synes falder til jorden. En DVD-skive destruerer sig selv. Der bliver bedt om udskrifter af billeder i stedet for selve filerne.
Oplever flere situationer i bogen direkte latterlige. Man har gjort det største fund i mange år - og beder om chokoladekiks. Man lytter ikke til fagfolk, men indleder diskussioner med dem. Og hvordan de nærmest pornografiske scener finder vej til bog - og deres betydning for historien - har jeg endnu ikke forstået.
Jeg valgte at høre den færdig - men sidder ikke i så endeløs spænding, at jeg har behov for at høre fortsættelsen.
January 18, 2022
Jeg er skuffet. Jeg har lige læst "Stenens Tid". Det er en bog uden slutning. Det er ikke fair, at sælge en bog uden slutning. Jeg ved udmærket, at det er fordi man vil have mig til at købe bog nummer to. Men det gør jeg ikke. Jeg synes ikke bogen er ret god. Derfor her jeg ikke lyst til at læse mere af den slags.
Det er en forvirrende usammenhængende handling, som har kapitler for kapitlerne skyld, ikke for handlingens skyld, hvilket er særdeles forvirrende. Desuden så er plottet tåkrummende tyndt, komplet urealistisk, og til sidst kommer vanvittige tiltag/hændelser, som slet slet ikke hænger sammen med resten af handlingen. Det er simpelthen noget makværk.
Til sidst i bogen skrives der, at det ikke er kvalitet alene der afgør, om en bog bliver populær, men at den skal drives af personlige anbefalinger. Jeg vil anbefale andre ikke at læse bogen, da den ikke er udtryk for nogen som helst form for kvalitet. At sammenligne med Dan Brown er det samme som at sammenligne Anders And med Supermand. Det eneste Ottosen har tilfælles med Dan Brown er, at de begge er forfattere, Ottosen når ham ikke til sokkeholderne.
Det er en forvirrende usammenhængende handling, som har kapitler for kapitlerne skyld, ikke for handlingens skyld, hvilket er særdeles forvirrende. Desuden så er plottet tåkrummende tyndt, komplet urealistisk, og til sidst kommer vanvittige tiltag/hændelser, som slet slet ikke hænger sammen med resten af handlingen. Det er simpelthen noget makværk.
Til sidst i bogen skrives der, at det ikke er kvalitet alene der afgør, om en bog bliver populær, men at den skal drives af personlige anbefalinger. Jeg vil anbefale andre ikke at læse bogen, da den ikke er udtryk for nogen som helst form for kvalitet. At sammenligne med Dan Brown er det samme som at sammenligne Anders And med Supermand. Det eneste Ottosen har tilfælles med Dan Brown er, at de begge er forfattere, Ottosen når ham ikke til sokkeholderne.
February 11, 2025
If you like Dan Brown you will love this.
When journalist Kurt Østergaard's stepfather dies, he leaves behind clues to a devastating secret that could shake Denmark to its core. As Kurt investigates, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy reaching the highest levels of power.
I devoured this book in a day! It is a fast paced book that will keep you on your toes throughout. Originally released in print in 2012 it is now being released in audiobook format.
There are a lot of threads/characters to keep track of in this book and that would possibly be made easier in print than in audiobook format. But as this is book 1 of the series it has to set the scene for this book and the later ones in the series. That's not to say a lot of them aren't tied together in this one, they are.
It blends ancient mysteries, geopolitic and Norse mythology effortlessly.
Whilst the narrator threw me a bit in their pronunciation of a few words it is a great listen.
Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the audiobook ARC.
When journalist Kurt Østergaard's stepfather dies, he leaves behind clues to a devastating secret that could shake Denmark to its core. As Kurt investigates, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy reaching the highest levels of power.
I devoured this book in a day! It is a fast paced book that will keep you on your toes throughout. Originally released in print in 2012 it is now being released in audiobook format.
There are a lot of threads/characters to keep track of in this book and that would possibly be made easier in print than in audiobook format. But as this is book 1 of the series it has to set the scene for this book and the later ones in the series. That's not to say a lot of them aren't tied together in this one, they are.
It blends ancient mysteries, geopolitic and Norse mythology effortlessly.
Whilst the narrator threw me a bit in their pronunciation of a few words it is a great listen.
Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the audiobook ARC.
April 27, 2025
I listened to the audiobook version. I will start off by saying that I liked that there was an interactive map you can get from the author's webpage to see where the characters were throughout the book. I thought that was a unique experience for a book.
I liked the thriller aspect of this book but I didn't find it as fast paced and thrilling as the books it was compared to (Dan Brown). The content itself was interesting and engaging but I found there were a lot of characters and many different plot lines which made it hard to keep track of everything through the audiobook.
I found the narration by Jeffrey Machado to be a bit bland, the characters all sounded the same to me, so it was hard to distinguish who was who. The pace of the narration was good though.
I feel like this book would be best to read and not listen to, I think you'd get a better understanding of the storyline and characters.
Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial Audio for a chance to read an advanced copy for my honest opinion.
I liked the thriller aspect of this book but I didn't find it as fast paced and thrilling as the books it was compared to (Dan Brown). The content itself was interesting and engaging but I found there were a lot of characters and many different plot lines which made it hard to keep track of everything through the audiobook.
I found the narration by Jeffrey Machado to be a bit bland, the characters all sounded the same to me, so it was hard to distinguish who was who. The pace of the narration was good though.
I feel like this book would be best to read and not listen to, I think you'd get a better understanding of the storyline and characters.
Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial Audio for a chance to read an advanced copy for my honest opinion.
March 12, 2025
This is certainly a fast paced thriller, packed with characters and a plot line that covers conspiracy theories, espionage, Norse mythology and much more. The introduction of QR codes to ‘visit’ locations is new to me. I’m not sure whether I want to go that far; I enjoy maps in a book. Taking time out from the action to go online and look at the locations may add to the pleasure but I found the prospect distracting. However, it’s innovative and maybe it’s something I’ll be more inclined to do on another occasion.
This is a true thriller; it’s edge of your seat stuff although I was slightly lost on a couple of occasions and had to rewind to understand what was goinfpg on. It’s really well narrated throughout and even with some of the stomach churning detail, I’d read more from this author.
This is a true thriller; it’s edge of your seat stuff although I was slightly lost on a couple of occasions and had to rewind to understand what was goinfpg on. It’s really well narrated throughout and even with some of the stomach churning detail, I’d read more from this author.
October 30, 2025
Countdown: Conspiracy Across Centuries is an electrifying political thriller that grips from the very first page and never lets go. Johan Ottosen masterfully fuses history, mythology, and modern-day terror into a story of breathtaking scope and intensity. With journalist Kurt Østergaard and former UN inspector Søren Storm at its center, the novel unravels a complex web of lies, power, and ancient secrets that could alter the course of humanity. Ottosen’s attention to detail and deep understanding of human psychology elevate the story beyond a typical thriller, immersing readers in a world where every revelation feels both shocking and plausible. Rich in atmosphere, intelligence, and emotional depth, Countdown is a must-read for fans of Dan Brown and Tom Clancy—an unforgettable journey through time, truth, and the dark corridors of power.
February 18, 2025
I am becoming more and more obsessed with end-of-the-world stories! ARC review
Countdown is the kind of book that completely pulls you in—it’s got that easy, immersive style where you feel like you’re right there in the room with the characters. From the very first page (or first few minutes if you're listening to the audiobook), it grabs your hand and doesn’t let go. You feel every racing heartbeat, every desperate exclamation, every puzzle that needs solving. The secrets, the urgency, the race against time—it’s all there, and it’s relentless.
One of the coolest extras? The author provides QR codes and links (available via email from Johan Ottosen’s website) that let you explore real-world locations from the book. I loved being able to drop into street view and see the places described—it adds an interactive layer that most books don’t offer, and it makes the experience even more immersive.
That said, fair warning—this book doesn’t shy away from gritty, graphic detail. If you’re squeamish about bodily functions, just be aware that there are some explicit descriptions early on. But if that doesn’t bother you, Countdown delivers a gripping, high-stakes thriller that keeps you hooked until the very last moment!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author and publisher for the opportunity 💕
Countdown is the kind of book that completely pulls you in—it’s got that easy, immersive style where you feel like you’re right there in the room with the characters. From the very first page (or first few minutes if you're listening to the audiobook), it grabs your hand and doesn’t let go. You feel every racing heartbeat, every desperate exclamation, every puzzle that needs solving. The secrets, the urgency, the race against time—it’s all there, and it’s relentless.
One of the coolest extras? The author provides QR codes and links (available via email from Johan Ottosen’s website) that let you explore real-world locations from the book. I loved being able to drop into street view and see the places described—it adds an interactive layer that most books don’t offer, and it makes the experience even more immersive.
That said, fair warning—this book doesn’t shy away from gritty, graphic detail. If you’re squeamish about bodily functions, just be aware that there are some explicit descriptions early on. But if that doesn’t bother you, Countdown delivers a gripping, high-stakes thriller that keeps you hooked until the very last moment!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author and publisher for the opportunity 💕
October 27, 2025
Countdown: Conspiracy Across Centuries is a gripping, high-intensity thriller that masterfully blends political intrigue, historical secrets, and heart-pounding suspense. Johan Ottosen weaves together hidden weapons programs, ancient prophecies, and modern terrorism into a plot that is both intelligent and relentlessly paced. With compelling characters—especially the morally driven journalist Kurt Østergaard and the haunted investigator Søren Storm—the story delivers emotional depth alongside its explosive twists. From Copenhagen’s secret tunnels to the icy isolation of Greenland, every scene feels cinematic and urgent. A must-read for fans of Dan Brown and Tom Clancy who crave thrillers that keep them thinking long after the final page.
October 27, 2025
Riveting from start to finish, Countdown: Conspiracy Across Centuries takes readers on a suspense-filled race against time where every revelation raises the stakes. Ottosen’s sharp narrative exposes a chilling conspiracy buried deep in Denmark’s past while staying grounded in real-world fears and meticulous research. The interplay between personal danger, political power, and unstoppable secrets creates tension that never lets up. With richly drawn characters, striking settings, and a storyline that feels both global and deeply personal, this novel cements Ottosen as a top voice in contemporary Scandinavian thrillers—smart, bold, and absolutely unputdownable.
October 28, 2025
Countdown: Conspiracy Across Centuries delivers a relentless blend of political intrigue, ancient mysteries, and explosive action that keeps the tension razor-sharp from start to finish. Johan Ottosen skillfully connects decades of buried secrets with modern-day terror, creating a storyline that feels chillingly believable. With multilayered characters—especially the determined journalist Kurt Østergaard and the morally tested Søren Storm—this thriller pulls readers into a race against time where every revelation is more shocking than the last. Fans of conspiracy-driven fiction will be completely absorbed.
February 24, 2025
I recently picked up the book Countdown and I couldn't have been more disappointed. The story was incredibly dull and seemed to drag on forever. I found myself struggling to get through even just a few pages at a time because it was so slow-paced. The characters were one-dimensional, the plot was predictable, and there was little to no excitement or suspense to keep me engaged. I ultimately couldn't bring myself to finish the book because I simply lost interest. Save yourself some time and energy and skip this one - there are plenty of better books out there worth your attention.
February 27, 2025
I got an audiobook version from NetGallery.
The narrator did a great job at narrating the book but I feel like there's way too much going on in this book. I think it had too many plotlines and too many characters. It did not feel fast paced and for being compared to Dan Brown, I personally did not get that feel. Maybe if it was edited some more and some storylines cut out completely it might have been better.
I'm currently at 79% and I'll most likely finish it but I wasn't a big fan of it unfortunately because the description seemed like it would have been right up my alley.
The narrator did a great job at narrating the book but I feel like there's way too much going on in this book. I think it had too many plotlines and too many characters. It did not feel fast paced and for being compared to Dan Brown, I personally did not get that feel. Maybe if it was edited some more and some storylines cut out completely it might have been better.
I'm currently at 79% and I'll most likely finish it but I wasn't a big fan of it unfortunately because the description seemed like it would have been right up my alley.
March 1, 2025
In the book Countdown, author Johan Ottosen writes about journalist Kurt Østergaard, whose father dies and leaves clues to a secret that could shake Denmark at its core. Søren Storm, a former UN weapons inspector, is trying to track down stolen radioactive material and is there an immanent planned attack? And who is the target? This was a good fast-paced story that kept moving. I would recommend this book. The audio-book narration was very good. I received a copy of this audio-book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2025
Ottosen’s masterful storytelling transports readers through underground bunkers, icy wilderness, and the very heart of Danish political power, weaving Norse mythology and doomsday theories into a narrative that is both fresh and gripping. The stakes rise with every chapter as the characters confront deadly truths and impossible choices, giving the thriller emotional weight alongside its relentless suspense. This is a bold, immersive novel that raises the bar for Scandinavian political thrillers—perfect for readers who crave action with depth and conspiracies with real-world resonance.
February 20, 2025
On paper this is right up my street it is a great political thriller and I was just engrossed in the story. What put me off completely was the explicit sex scenes and I just had to fast forward these bits when listening to it so it spoilt the enjoyment of the book. I am not a prude but these were too much for me especially listening to it on devices where the rest of the family could walk in.
February 27, 2025
Soren Storm is called in when stolen radioactive material is found. Who stole it and what do they plan to use it for. Heads of state are coming to Denmark to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee. Is an attack imminent?
Well written and narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Good characters in a well paced novel.
Well written and narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Good characters in a well paced novel.
January 25, 2019
Åbenbart en del af en trilogi, hvilket betyder det lige så åbenbart er OK at slutte bogen midt i handlingen. Håbløse og unødvendige sexscener samt irriterende beskrivelser af hvilket mad de spiser på en restaurant. En skam, for historien var ellers god.
November 13, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocialAudio for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review
This book would have been good if the characters weren’t eh, the atmosphere was fine, and if it hooked me in but I didn’t enjoy it and felt bored even though the plot and logic was good.
This book would have been good if the characters weren’t eh, the atmosphere was fine, and if it hooked me in but I didn’t enjoy it and felt bored even though the plot and logic was good.
November 16, 2025
His stepfather has died leaving behind a secret which may just have devastating consequences for many. They will be pulled into an investigation which could destroy many lives and so follow them as they try to get through it all
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great thriller
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great thriller
August 1, 2020
Super spændende ferie læsning.
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