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An Áróra Investigation #4
Dark as Night
'A terrific tale with twist after twist … Lilja Sigurdardottir is fast becoming my favourite Icelandic crime writer' The Times Book of the Month
When Arora receives a call telling her that a child she's never met is claiming to be her missing sister reincarnated, she is devastated … as ridiculous as the allegations might seem. For three years she has been searching for her sister without finding a single clue, and now this strange child seems to have new information.
On the same day, Icelandic Detective Daniel returns home to find a note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gugulu, giving notice on her flat and explaining that she has to leave the country. Daniel is immediately suspicious, and when three threatening men appear, looking for the Lady, it's clear to him that something is very wrong…
Twisty, intricately plotted and atmospheric, Dark as Night is the highly anticipated fourth book in the addictive An Arora Investigation series, as Arora and her team face unimaginable danger and extraordinary experiences that may change everything, forever…
When Arora receives a call telling her that a child she's never met is claiming to be her missing sister reincarnated, she is devastated … as ridiculous as the allegations might seem. For three years she has been searching for her sister without finding a single clue, and now this strange child seems to have new information.
On the same day, Icelandic Detective Daniel returns home to find a note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gugulu, giving notice on her flat and explaining that she has to leave the country. Daniel is immediately suspicious, and when three threatening men appear, looking for the Lady, it's clear to him that something is very wrong…
Twisty, intricately plotted and atmospheric, Dark as Night is the highly anticipated fourth book in the addictive An Arora Investigation series, as Arora and her team face unimaginable danger and extraordinary experiences that may change everything, forever…
300 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2022
80 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
Lilja Sigurðardóttir
19 books436 followersLilja´s newest book, Netið ((Tangle) was published by Forlagid publishing in October 2016 and is the second book in the Reykjavík Noir Trilogy.
Lilja started her writing career in 2008 when she sent a manuscript of a novel to a competition run by the publishing house Bjartur whose aim was to find the Icelandic Dan Brown. Lilja got a publishing deal out of the competition and in 2009 her first book, the crime novel Spor (Steps), came out, which she wrote in her spare time. Her second book, Fyrirgefning (Foregiveness) was published a year later but after that Lilja wrote mostly for theatre for the coming years. She won the Icelandic Theatre Awards for Best Play of the Year in 2014 for her staged debut Stóru börnin (Big Babies). But in 2015 she started a new crime series with Icelands biggest publisher Forlagid. The series has been called The Reykjavík Noir Trilogy, and the first book in series, Gildran (Snare) became an instant success.
Lilja started her writing career in 2008 when she sent a manuscript of a novel to a competition run by the publishing house Bjartur whose aim was to find the Icelandic Dan Brown. Lilja got a publishing deal out of the competition and in 2009 her first book, the crime novel Spor (Steps), came out, which she wrote in her spare time. Her second book, Fyrirgefning (Foregiveness) was published a year later but after that Lilja wrote mostly for theatre for the coming years. She won the Icelandic Theatre Awards for Best Play of the Year in 2014 for her staged debut Stóru börnin (Big Babies). But in 2015 she started a new crime series with Icelands biggest publisher Forlagid. The series has been called The Reykjavík Noir Trilogy, and the first book in series, Gildran (Snare) became an instant success.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
February 11, 2025
Finished reading: February 9th 2025
"Home. What a fluid concept that was. In the same way his own character was fluid."
REVIEW
November 19, 2024
I’m glad that the mystery of where Ísafold’s body had been left was solved for Áróra (her searching for it had got a bit boring if truth be told) but I was definitely unhappy with how it was found, i.e. a child who says she is the reincarnation of her lost sister, as I was with the Lady Gúgúlú story. This didn’t feel completely believable. I’m not sure about the new twist disclosed when the body was found, either.
This was translated by a new person and I felt it was a bit off in places, which might have added to my lesser enjoyment of this story, especially the first half. E.g. P139 ‘What could this happy little shrimp know about murder?’ Shrimp? An unusual word to use to describe a child.
This was translated by a new person and I felt it was a bit off in places, which might have added to my lesser enjoyment of this story, especially the first half. E.g. P139 ‘What could this happy little shrimp know about murder?’ Shrimp? An unusual word to use to describe a child.
October 10, 2024
Well here we are at book four in the Arora series; and what a series it is. Lilja has done a great job. All the plates that she set spinning in page one of this series are still spinning and are bringing us a finale to this book.
Arora is still grieving her missing sister and looking for conclusion. A spanner is thrown into an already complicated affair when a small child claims to be her sister reincarnated.
On the same day, Icelandic detective Daníel returns home to find a
note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú, giving notice on her
flat and explaining that she has to leave the country. Daníel is
immediately suspicious and when three men appear Daniel along with the physical pain he recieves finds his suspicions heightened.
The more Arora and Daniel delve into their respective cases, the more they find they're to close to them and agree to swap cases. This is where the book really takes off and prove Lilja is a smashing wee writer who really knows how to craft a tale. This is a book full of twists and turns and if you have followed the series from the begining you will find the pace is still building.
If you haven't please start with book one and you will find what happens in book four more satisfying as you read this series.
Arora is still grieving her missing sister and looking for conclusion. A spanner is thrown into an already complicated affair when a small child claims to be her sister reincarnated.
On the same day, Icelandic detective Daníel returns home to find a
note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú, giving notice on her
flat and explaining that she has to leave the country. Daníel is
immediately suspicious and when three men appear Daniel along with the physical pain he recieves finds his suspicions heightened.
The more Arora and Daniel delve into their respective cases, the more they find they're to close to them and agree to swap cases. This is where the book really takes off and prove Lilja is a smashing wee writer who really knows how to craft a tale. This is a book full of twists and turns and if you have followed the series from the begining you will find the pace is still building.
If you haven't please start with book one and you will find what happens in book four more satisfying as you read this series.
November 28, 2024
The fourth Áróra Investigation proved to be another tense and twisty reading experience and is probably my favourite of the series to date. Áróra and Daníel share the spotlight in this one.
A three year old child claims to be Áróra's missing sister Ísafold. The tiny girl remembers many things that only someone very close to Ísafold would know. Áróra and Daníel wonder if she is being coached by someone who knows the case - and the crime...
Meanwhile, Daníel's tenant, the larger than life Lady Gúgúlú has done a flit leaving a brief note. Daníel is distraught at the loss of his good friend and becomes alarmed when three men come and empty out Lady Gúgúlú's apartment. Then, they return and beat up Daníel!Lady Gúgúlú is clearly in deep trouble.
Alternating chapters of this book are told from Lady Gúgúlú's perspective. What a fascinating character! In a former life he was an astrophysicist! We follow him on the run from the men who seek to harm him.
The Icelandic settings were well described, though the author seems to have a love/hate relationship with the country - as does her protagonist, Áróra.
This time out Áróra does what she does best, she follows the money. This will lead her and Lady Gúgúlú into dangerous territory!
With themes of reincarnation, weapons of mass destruction, and corrupt big business, this book has a lot going on. All that, and the evolving Áróra/Daníel relationship, make this both a thrilling and compelling read.
Highly recommended to all readers who enjoy a well executed crime thriller. The ending was very satisfying and I'm loving this series. Can't wait for the next instalment.
A three year old child claims to be Áróra's missing sister Ísafold. The tiny girl remembers many things that only someone very close to Ísafold would know. Áróra and Daníel wonder if she is being coached by someone who knows the case - and the crime...
Meanwhile, Daníel's tenant, the larger than life Lady Gúgúlú has done a flit leaving a brief note. Daníel is distraught at the loss of his good friend and becomes alarmed when three men come and empty out Lady Gúgúlú's apartment. Then, they return and beat up Daníel!Lady Gúgúlú is clearly in deep trouble.
Alternating chapters of this book are told from Lady Gúgúlú's perspective. What a fascinating character! In a former life he was an astrophysicist! We follow him on the run from the men who seek to harm him.
The Icelandic settings were well described, though the author seems to have a love/hate relationship with the country - as does her protagonist, Áróra.
This time out Áróra does what she does best, she follows the money. This will lead her and Lady Gúgúlú into dangerous territory!
With themes of reincarnation, weapons of mass destruction, and corrupt big business, this book has a lot going on. All that, and the evolving Áróra/Daníel relationship, make this both a thrilling and compelling read.
Highly recommended to all readers who enjoy a well executed crime thriller. The ending was very satisfying and I'm loving this series. Can't wait for the next instalment.
October 15, 2024
Áróra Jónsdóttir’s sister, Ísafold, disappeared without a trace, her body never found. Ísafold’s abusive boyfriend, Björn, is rumoured to have fled to Canada.
When Áróra receives a phone call from Elísabet, a mother to a three-year-old, Ester Lóa, she is stunned.
Ester Lóa claims she is Ísafóld reincarnated.
How can that be?
Meanwhile, Daniel’s tenant, Lady Gúgúlú (real name Haraldur), goes missing. She leaves a note saying she’s gone abroad, but all personal possessions, including the mobile phone, are left behind.
Daniel finds that extremely suspicious, so he is adamant to discover the whereabouts of his tenant. However, he soon discovers that Lady Gúgúlú lied about most of her life…
These two perplexing cases will test Áróra and Daniel to the limit.
Where is Lady Gúgúlú? More importantly, who is she and what is she hiding?
Is Ester Lóa the missing link to Ísafold’s disappearance?
This is the fourth book in the Áróra Investigation series, but it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel. However, as all books are linked, I’d encourage readers to acquaint themselves with the previous novels.
I just loved this story: it’s dark, mysterious, and certainly keeps you guessing all the way to the end.
I was desperate to uncover Lady Gúgúlú’s secret – what was in that box?!
I was also flabbergasted by the concept of reincarnation. I know that in some cultures people believe in it, and I suppose it’s sounds a bit far fetched for the Westerners!
The ending… wow! Totally unpredictable – what will happen next?
As always, I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
When Áróra receives a phone call from Elísabet, a mother to a three-year-old, Ester Lóa, she is stunned.
Ester Lóa claims she is Ísafóld reincarnated.
How can that be?
Meanwhile, Daniel’s tenant, Lady Gúgúlú (real name Haraldur), goes missing. She leaves a note saying she’s gone abroad, but all personal possessions, including the mobile phone, are left behind.
Daniel finds that extremely suspicious, so he is adamant to discover the whereabouts of his tenant. However, he soon discovers that Lady Gúgúlú lied about most of her life…
These two perplexing cases will test Áróra and Daniel to the limit.
Where is Lady Gúgúlú? More importantly, who is she and what is she hiding?
Is Ester Lóa the missing link to Ísafold’s disappearance?
This is the fourth book in the Áróra Investigation series, but it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel. However, as all books are linked, I’d encourage readers to acquaint themselves with the previous novels.
I just loved this story: it’s dark, mysterious, and certainly keeps you guessing all the way to the end.
I was desperate to uncover Lady Gúgúlú’s secret – what was in that box?!
I was also flabbergasted by the concept of reincarnation. I know that in some cultures people believe in it, and I suppose it’s sounds a bit far fetched for the Westerners!
The ending… wow! Totally unpredictable – what will happen next?
As always, I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
December 23, 2024
en oikeestaa lue hirveest dekkareit mut tää oli legit super hyvä wtf
January 17, 2026
The best place to start will always be Cold as Hell, book one.
October 21, 2022
Geggjuð!
January 3, 2025
This series just gets better with every book!
October 24, 2024
I like this series, and wonder if Iceland is a bit mystic
March 20, 2024
Fínasti endir á þægilegum krimmabálki. Hnútar hnýttir og sögur kláraðar
August 21, 2024
I'm loving this series by Lilja Sigurdardottir. The fourth one and the pace is on. Following Arora and Daniel in their quest to find Daniels
Lodger who leaves a note but takes nothing and Arora who meets a child who says she is the reincarnation of her lost sister. Loads of twists and turns but still a mystery at the end . No spoilers. Highly recommended
Lodger who leaves a note but takes nothing and Arora who meets a child who says she is the reincarnation of her lost sister. Loads of twists and turns but still a mystery at the end . No spoilers. Highly recommended
November 19, 2022
Í þessari fjórðu bók um Áróru finnst loks lík systurinnar og púslin falla á sinn stað. Við fáum útskýringar á ýmsu tengdu Gúgúlú, sögu hans og álagablettinum. Enn á þó eftir að ganga frá nokkrum endum og ég trúi ekki öðru en að við fáum eina bók enn um Áróru. Lilja svíkur ekki og orðin ein af mínum uppáhalds spennusagnahöfundum
December 6, 2024
A telephone call leaves Áróra stunned. The call is from a woman who claims that her three-year-old daughter is the reincarnation of her missing sister Ísafold. An incredible and somewhat ridiculous claim from someone she has never met and as far as she is aware had any contact with her family.
If you have read any earlier novels in the series, it will be apparent what this could mean to Áróra. She returned to Iceland from England to discover what happened to Ísafold, such that it became her life’s mission. Hopes of her being alive have dwindled but they still haven’t located a body, despite Áróra searching many mountain paths and even deploying a drone. She has reached so many dead ends in desperation; she is even prepared to hear what this family has to say. Can their daughter really provide a clue?
In a day of surprises, Áróra’s boyfriend Daniel returns home to a shock of his own. On his table is a note from drag queen Lady Gúgúlú, who rented his garage apartment, giving notice and explaining that she must leave the country. To leave without saying goodbye is most out of character. Daniel’s fears that something may be seriously wrong are confirmed when he is visited by three menacing men reeking of the kind of officialdom that is never acknowledged. Just what has she got herself into?
Two unrelated puzzles that are to be solved by Áróra and Daniel switching places. The two separate threads provide some answers for the reader but also leaves them with more open doorways through which the series will pass. As the say as one door closes another one opens.
Much of the story centres upon the life of Lady Gúgúlú, creating a backstory that could never be guessed. We discover his true identity is Róbert, who was a child genius and physics graduate who made errors of judgement early in his career, necessitating going on the run. Now it appears he has nowhere left to run. This backstory is surprising, touching and shocking in turn, as he abandons his career and love to preserve his life. The frivolous drag artist is just one of the identities he has needed to adopt to stay safe.
Áróra takes on the role of gumshoe detective, trying to track him down without the help of Daniel as official channels are monitored. She adapts quickly to the subterfuge and proves adept at peeling through the layers of deception Róbert has created. This ends up being quite a journey, one that demonstrates the lengths that one must go to in order to disappear in the modern world. This is all cleverly put together and moves Áróra out of her comfort zone, though her more familiar skills become useful before the conclusion.
The second strand is left to Daniel because of Áróra’s fragile mental state and the need to resort to official channels. After years of obsession trying to locate Ísafold, she has now projected this onto weightlifting, with a subconscious reconnection with her strongman father. She has unbeknown to Daniel been taking steroids to help build muscle, though he has an inkling something is amiss when she displays roid-rage. Contact with the child whose parents claim is Ísafold pushes her to the edge, she is so convinced the child knows something. Daniel sidelines her for her own good.
The subject of reincarnation is played masterfully and with something of a straight bat. Some believe, many do not, but it is left to the reader to make up their mind. There are interviews and Daniel looks for obvious coaching or dickering (fishing for secrets) by the parents. Bits and pieces can be found by researching but there always seems to be that little bit more which is quite eerie. It is easy to see how grief and obsession make those left behind cling onto any hope regardless of how unlikely it is.
It is a relatively short novel, not being overburdened with unnecessary diversions and feeling about the right length. It moves along briskly and never loses focus. The ending may feel a little bit rushed, but that is because there are two stories that end simultaneously just as they started.
If you have read any earlier novels in the series, it will be apparent what this could mean to Áróra. She returned to Iceland from England to discover what happened to Ísafold, such that it became her life’s mission. Hopes of her being alive have dwindled but they still haven’t located a body, despite Áróra searching many mountain paths and even deploying a drone. She has reached so many dead ends in desperation; she is even prepared to hear what this family has to say. Can their daughter really provide a clue?
In a day of surprises, Áróra’s boyfriend Daniel returns home to a shock of his own. On his table is a note from drag queen Lady Gúgúlú, who rented his garage apartment, giving notice and explaining that she must leave the country. To leave without saying goodbye is most out of character. Daniel’s fears that something may be seriously wrong are confirmed when he is visited by three menacing men reeking of the kind of officialdom that is never acknowledged. Just what has she got herself into?
Two unrelated puzzles that are to be solved by Áróra and Daniel switching places. The two separate threads provide some answers for the reader but also leaves them with more open doorways through which the series will pass. As the say as one door closes another one opens.
Much of the story centres upon the life of Lady Gúgúlú, creating a backstory that could never be guessed. We discover his true identity is Róbert, who was a child genius and physics graduate who made errors of judgement early in his career, necessitating going on the run. Now it appears he has nowhere left to run. This backstory is surprising, touching and shocking in turn, as he abandons his career and love to preserve his life. The frivolous drag artist is just one of the identities he has needed to adopt to stay safe.
Áróra takes on the role of gumshoe detective, trying to track him down without the help of Daniel as official channels are monitored. She adapts quickly to the subterfuge and proves adept at peeling through the layers of deception Róbert has created. This ends up being quite a journey, one that demonstrates the lengths that one must go to in order to disappear in the modern world. This is all cleverly put together and moves Áróra out of her comfort zone, though her more familiar skills become useful before the conclusion.
The second strand is left to Daniel because of Áróra’s fragile mental state and the need to resort to official channels. After years of obsession trying to locate Ísafold, she has now projected this onto weightlifting, with a subconscious reconnection with her strongman father. She has unbeknown to Daniel been taking steroids to help build muscle, though he has an inkling something is amiss when she displays roid-rage. Contact with the child whose parents claim is Ísafold pushes her to the edge, she is so convinced the child knows something. Daniel sidelines her for her own good.
The subject of reincarnation is played masterfully and with something of a straight bat. Some believe, many do not, but it is left to the reader to make up their mind. There are interviews and Daniel looks for obvious coaching or dickering (fishing for secrets) by the parents. Bits and pieces can be found by researching but there always seems to be that little bit more which is quite eerie. It is easy to see how grief and obsession make those left behind cling onto any hope regardless of how unlikely it is.
It is a relatively short novel, not being overburdened with unnecessary diversions and feeling about the right length. It moves along briskly and never loses focus. The ending may feel a little bit rushed, but that is because there are two stories that end simultaneously just as they started.
December 11, 2024
The fourth book of the An Áróra series presents us with two main storylines. One involves a rather strange lead about Áróra’s missing sister Ísafold who she has been searching for since she disappeared in the first book. The second involves Lady Gúgúlú, Daniel’s tenant, neighbour and friend.
As for the lead Áróra receives it comes when a mother tells Áróra that her three year old daughter, Ester Lóa, believes that she is Ísafold reincarnated! It’s a shock, unusual even crazy Áróra knows but she just can’t dismiss it. When she and Daniel meet with the mother, Elísabet, Daniel is inclined to believe it’s not true. Áróra is confused by the fact that the little girl had said that Ísafold was killed by an ice bear – the nickname Ísafold gave her boyfriend – could it be true? Daniel also noticed that the little girl had apparently indicated where the most blood was found in the flat! Surely it was leaked information? It couldn’t be true? Could this child be what she says she is? Surely it’s some kind of scam!
Daniel and Áróra return home from meeting Elísabet. Áróra goes for a shower while Daniel goes to make dinner but he finds a note from Lady Gúgúlú, real name is Róbert and officially known as Haraldur – Harry for short, telling him he has gone abroad on a family matter and won’t be back! So he goes to check the garage room nothing had been taken he had left his phone, his iPad and not even taken a toothbrush! Daniel is sad that there hadn’t been a chance to say goodbye but is mainly concerned, who goes away without even taking their toothbrush?
Daniel and Áróra know that they are each too close to their own situation and if they are to find out what happened then they must be more objective. So, Daniel would need look into Elísabets claim and Áróra would need to find out what is going on with Lady Gúgúlú, where she had gone and why?
Lady Gúgúlú has been a wonderful but minor character in the series so far. But now we have an amazing storyline as we follow Lady Gúgúlú. Returning to his original name of Róbert he decides to become Robbi. Áróra’s investigation begins too and as this storyline develops we find out who the people are that Robbi is running from and why these people have been looking for him for so many years. As we read this gripping storyline we finally get to know more about this character and what we learn is both fascinating and heartbreaking.
Each of the themes are emotional yet the book as a whole is written so that you are fully engrossed in and engaged with the two investigations. One will bring a fast paced and thrilling conclusion whilst the other brings a supernatural element.
I love Lady Gúgúlú’s character and am delighted that Róbert’s story has come to light in this fourth book of the series. I hope that we’ll still see Lady Gúgúlú, or Róbert, in future books.
I’m also glad that what actually happened to Ísafold is being resolved. However, there is still more to that storyline as we are presented with a final shocking twist!
As always it’s good to read a series from the first book and this particular storyline of Ísafold’s is a good reason for reading the series in order. Even having read all the books it’s only as this is revealed that I recalled a particular scene from an earlier book! Surely there will be more about it in a future book? Surely!
What another wonderful book from Lilja Sigurdardóttir! The best one yet, I loved it and am already looking forward to reading the next one. I hope it isn’t long before it comes out.
Beautifully translated by Lorenza Garcia. Where would we be if wonderful publishers with excellent translators didn’t exist? We would be missing out on some of the best stories in the world and what a tragedy that would be.
_____
Many thanks to Orenda Books for an eARC of Dark as Night by Lilja Sigurdardóttir and to Anne at RandomThingsTours for the invitation to this amazing BlogTour. I have also purchased a paperback copy of Dark as Night to sit beside the rest of my Lilja Sigurdardóttir books.
As for the lead Áróra receives it comes when a mother tells Áróra that her three year old daughter, Ester Lóa, believes that she is Ísafold reincarnated! It’s a shock, unusual even crazy Áróra knows but she just can’t dismiss it. When she and Daniel meet with the mother, Elísabet, Daniel is inclined to believe it’s not true. Áróra is confused by the fact that the little girl had said that Ísafold was killed by an ice bear – the nickname Ísafold gave her boyfriend – could it be true? Daniel also noticed that the little girl had apparently indicated where the most blood was found in the flat! Surely it was leaked information? It couldn’t be true? Could this child be what she says she is? Surely it’s some kind of scam!
Daniel and Áróra return home from meeting Elísabet. Áróra goes for a shower while Daniel goes to make dinner but he finds a note from Lady Gúgúlú, real name is Róbert and officially known as Haraldur – Harry for short, telling him he has gone abroad on a family matter and won’t be back! So he goes to check the garage room nothing had been taken he had left his phone, his iPad and not even taken a toothbrush! Daniel is sad that there hadn’t been a chance to say goodbye but is mainly concerned, who goes away without even taking their toothbrush?
Daniel and Áróra know that they are each too close to their own situation and if they are to find out what happened then they must be more objective. So, Daniel would need look into Elísabets claim and Áróra would need to find out what is going on with Lady Gúgúlú, where she had gone and why?
Lady Gúgúlú has been a wonderful but minor character in the series so far. But now we have an amazing storyline as we follow Lady Gúgúlú. Returning to his original name of Róbert he decides to become Robbi. Áróra’s investigation begins too and as this storyline develops we find out who the people are that Robbi is running from and why these people have been looking for him for so many years. As we read this gripping storyline we finally get to know more about this character and what we learn is both fascinating and heartbreaking.
Each of the themes are emotional yet the book as a whole is written so that you are fully engrossed in and engaged with the two investigations. One will bring a fast paced and thrilling conclusion whilst the other brings a supernatural element.
I love Lady Gúgúlú’s character and am delighted that Róbert’s story has come to light in this fourth book of the series. I hope that we’ll still see Lady Gúgúlú, or Róbert, in future books.
I’m also glad that what actually happened to Ísafold is being resolved. However, there is still more to that storyline as we are presented with a final shocking twist!
As always it’s good to read a series from the first book and this particular storyline of Ísafold’s is a good reason for reading the series in order. Even having read all the books it’s only as this is revealed that I recalled a particular scene from an earlier book! Surely there will be more about it in a future book? Surely!
What another wonderful book from Lilja Sigurdardóttir! The best one yet, I loved it and am already looking forward to reading the next one. I hope it isn’t long before it comes out.
Beautifully translated by Lorenza Garcia. Where would we be if wonderful publishers with excellent translators didn’t exist? We would be missing out on some of the best stories in the world and what a tragedy that would be.
_____
Many thanks to Orenda Books for an eARC of Dark as Night by Lilja Sigurdardóttir and to Anne at RandomThingsTours for the invitation to this amazing BlogTour. I have also purchased a paperback copy of Dark as Night to sit beside the rest of my Lilja Sigurdardóttir books.
October 15, 2024
For three long years, Áróra has been searching for her missing sister Ísafold without success, exhausting every possible lead. When she receives a strange call from a woman claiming that her three-year-old daughter insists she is Ísafold reincarnated, Áróra dismisses it as just another hoax. However, then she meets the child, and realises that somehow this golden-haired tot knows impossible things about her sister and the case. Could this really be the chance to find out what happened to Ísafold?
On the same day, Áróra's partner, Icelandic detective Daníel, has a shock of his own. Returning home, he discovers that his flamboyant tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú, has disappeared, leaving a cryptic note saying he has had to leave the country. Daniel's confusion turns to concern when three mysterious men turn up on his door-step and threaten him with violence unless he reveals his tenant's whereabouts. Lady Gúgúlú is obviously in danger, and Daniel has no idea how to help, but private investigator Áróra might...
The fourth book in the excellent Áróra Investigations series follows two captivating storylines for Áróra and Daniel that have them questioning how much they really knew about their larger-than-life friend Lady, and in an intriguing twist, their beliefs about the circle of life and death.
The novel unfurls through the points of view of Áróra, Daniel, and Lady in an epic mash-up of eerie supernatural mystery, gritty police procedural, and suspense-filled action thriller, against a deliciously atmospheric Icelandic backdrop. Áróra is consumed with the possibility that a small child might hold the key to the mystery of Ísafold's disappearance, despite the skepticism of those around her, but her personal feelings make it difficult for her to see things clearly. In parallel, Daniel's tentative search for Lady is brought to a violent halt, while he is also trying to decide if this weird development in Ísafold's case might really be something interesting. Heightened emotions, doubts and anxieties put Áróra and Daniel's relationship under strain as the threads of their stories weave together (not helped by Áróra's misguided physical training regime), and in a lovely twist, the solution to both their problems proves to be to a division of labour that uses their individual skills to best advantage.
Meanwhile, Sigurdardottir has some lovely surprises in store when it comes to Lady Gúgúlú, who you discover has been leading much more of a double life than simply being a drag queen. His part in the story cuts in and out as he tries to save himself from the consequences of a murky past filled with cutting-edge science, dodgy dealing, astonishing subterfuge, and regrets. I loved how this allows Lady's character to develop like never before, and ties Áróra and Daniel's plotlines together in cross-genre splendour. There are nice little asides into the goings on in the lives of some of the other recurring characters too.
The pace of the book ramps up to fever pitch, swapping relentlessly back and forth between the three main characters as their plotlines reach explosive conclusions. I was kept firmly on the edge of my seat, and tip my hat at translator Lorenza Garcia for making the story flow so well - she also manages to convey the emotional intensity of Sigurdardottir's echoed themes of acceptance, family ties, and enduring love quite beautifully.
Sigurdardottir pulls off the cleverest of tricks to satisfyingly tie off the threads of poignant storylines that have run through the series as well as in this fourth book, while leaving just enough hanging to take Áróra and Daniel into staggering new country in the next book... I cannot wait. Nordic noir at its gripping best!
On the same day, Áróra's partner, Icelandic detective Daníel, has a shock of his own. Returning home, he discovers that his flamboyant tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú, has disappeared, leaving a cryptic note saying he has had to leave the country. Daniel's confusion turns to concern when three mysterious men turn up on his door-step and threaten him with violence unless he reveals his tenant's whereabouts. Lady Gúgúlú is obviously in danger, and Daniel has no idea how to help, but private investigator Áróra might...
The fourth book in the excellent Áróra Investigations series follows two captivating storylines for Áróra and Daniel that have them questioning how much they really knew about their larger-than-life friend Lady, and in an intriguing twist, their beliefs about the circle of life and death.
The novel unfurls through the points of view of Áróra, Daniel, and Lady in an epic mash-up of eerie supernatural mystery, gritty police procedural, and suspense-filled action thriller, against a deliciously atmospheric Icelandic backdrop. Áróra is consumed with the possibility that a small child might hold the key to the mystery of Ísafold's disappearance, despite the skepticism of those around her, but her personal feelings make it difficult for her to see things clearly. In parallel, Daniel's tentative search for Lady is brought to a violent halt, while he is also trying to decide if this weird development in Ísafold's case might really be something interesting. Heightened emotions, doubts and anxieties put Áróra and Daniel's relationship under strain as the threads of their stories weave together (not helped by Áróra's misguided physical training regime), and in a lovely twist, the solution to both their problems proves to be to a division of labour that uses their individual skills to best advantage.
Meanwhile, Sigurdardottir has some lovely surprises in store when it comes to Lady Gúgúlú, who you discover has been leading much more of a double life than simply being a drag queen. His part in the story cuts in and out as he tries to save himself from the consequences of a murky past filled with cutting-edge science, dodgy dealing, astonishing subterfuge, and regrets. I loved how this allows Lady's character to develop like never before, and ties Áróra and Daniel's plotlines together in cross-genre splendour. There are nice little asides into the goings on in the lives of some of the other recurring characters too.
The pace of the book ramps up to fever pitch, swapping relentlessly back and forth between the three main characters as their plotlines reach explosive conclusions. I was kept firmly on the edge of my seat, and tip my hat at translator Lorenza Garcia for making the story flow so well - she also manages to convey the emotional intensity of Sigurdardottir's echoed themes of acceptance, family ties, and enduring love quite beautifully.
Sigurdardottir pulls off the cleverest of tricks to satisfyingly tie off the threads of poignant storylines that have run through the series as well as in this fourth book, while leaving just enough hanging to take Áróra and Daniel into staggering new country in the next book... I cannot wait. Nordic noir at its gripping best!
November 1, 2024
This is the fourth installment in the Áróra Investigations series. Besides crime investigation, this book has some spy thriller and speculative fiction elements.
As in the previous books, there’s more than one case to investigate. Áróra receives a phone call from a woman who claims her 3-year-old daughter Ester Lóa is the reincarnation of Ísafold, Áróra’s sister who disappeared three years earlier. Ísafold is presumed dead though no body has ever been found, but now Ester Lóa seems to have more information. While Áróra and her boyfriend Daníel set out to check the veracity of Ester Lóa’s claims, Lady Gúgúlú, Daníel’s drag queen tenant, leaves a goodbye note stating she is leaving the country. Daníel questions this sudden leave-taking and becomes convinced something is wrong when three threatening men pay him a visit.
I was once again totally drawn into the book so I found it difficult to put down. I enjoyed encountering Áróra and Daníel who behave consistently. Intelligent and determined but flawed Áróra remains as likeable as before. But I also enjoyed revisiting with other characters like Helena, Sirra, and Bisi from the earlier books and learning what has happened to them in the interim. Lady Gúgúlú is a favourite character and it was interesting to learn about his background which explains something mentioned in previous books that always bothered me.
There is a great deal of suspense that will definitely keep readers turning pages. Lady Gúgúlú is in obvious danger: “He didn’t doubt they would kill him if they got hold of him. . . . His biggest fear, however, was that they might try to torture him first.” Anyone who tries to find him is also in danger. Then there’s the mystery surrounding Ester Lóa: how can she possibly know what she knows? In the end, some mysteries are solved, but a new puzzle emerges.
What impressed me again is the author’s intricate plotting. Alternating points of view are presented (e.g. Áróra, Daníel, Lady Gúgúlú, Helena). This narrative structure creates suspense through dramatic irony: the reader knows where Lady Gúgúlú is, but will friend or foe find him first? I like how one chapter often elaborates on what is learned in the previous chapter.
Some of the James Bond elements bothered me since I find them unrealistic, and though I know it’s a tenet of several religions, I’m not a fan of paranormal elements like transmigration. Nonetheless I tried to be less skeptical and “to go with the flow”. And I admit to liking Lady Gúgúlú’s final comment to Daníel: “’If you believe what your senses consider to be reality is in fact reality then you haven’t understood a word I’ve said to you about the inner life of the atom.’”
This is an enjoyable and quick read. The reader’s interest is maintained throughout, and the short, snappy chapters add to the quick pace.
Please check out my reader's blog (https://schatjesshelves.blogspot.com/) or substack (https://doreenyakabuski.substack.com/) for over 1,100 of my book reviews.
As in the previous books, there’s more than one case to investigate. Áróra receives a phone call from a woman who claims her 3-year-old daughter Ester Lóa is the reincarnation of Ísafold, Áróra’s sister who disappeared three years earlier. Ísafold is presumed dead though no body has ever been found, but now Ester Lóa seems to have more information. While Áróra and her boyfriend Daníel set out to check the veracity of Ester Lóa’s claims, Lady Gúgúlú, Daníel’s drag queen tenant, leaves a goodbye note stating she is leaving the country. Daníel questions this sudden leave-taking and becomes convinced something is wrong when three threatening men pay him a visit.
I was once again totally drawn into the book so I found it difficult to put down. I enjoyed encountering Áróra and Daníel who behave consistently. Intelligent and determined but flawed Áróra remains as likeable as before. But I also enjoyed revisiting with other characters like Helena, Sirra, and Bisi from the earlier books and learning what has happened to them in the interim. Lady Gúgúlú is a favourite character and it was interesting to learn about his background which explains something mentioned in previous books that always bothered me.
There is a great deal of suspense that will definitely keep readers turning pages. Lady Gúgúlú is in obvious danger: “He didn’t doubt they would kill him if they got hold of him. . . . His biggest fear, however, was that they might try to torture him first.” Anyone who tries to find him is also in danger. Then there’s the mystery surrounding Ester Lóa: how can she possibly know what she knows? In the end, some mysteries are solved, but a new puzzle emerges.
What impressed me again is the author’s intricate plotting. Alternating points of view are presented (e.g. Áróra, Daníel, Lady Gúgúlú, Helena). This narrative structure creates suspense through dramatic irony: the reader knows where Lady Gúgúlú is, but will friend or foe find him first? I like how one chapter often elaborates on what is learned in the previous chapter.
Some of the James Bond elements bothered me since I find them unrealistic, and though I know it’s a tenet of several religions, I’m not a fan of paranormal elements like transmigration. Nonetheless I tried to be less skeptical and “to go with the flow”. And I admit to liking Lady Gúgúlú’s final comment to Daníel: “’If you believe what your senses consider to be reality is in fact reality then you haven’t understood a word I’ve said to you about the inner life of the atom.’”
This is an enjoyable and quick read. The reader’s interest is maintained throughout, and the short, snappy chapters add to the quick pace.
Please check out my reader's blog (https://schatjesshelves.blogspot.com/) or substack (https://doreenyakabuski.substack.com/) for over 1,100 of my book reviews.
November 2, 2024
Dark as Night is the fourth book in Lilja Sigurdardóttir's excellent An Áróra Investigation series. It isn't necessary to have read the previous novels but some earlier storylines conclude, or at least significantly develop here, and so I would recommend reading the others if possible. Perhaps even more importantly, they are all superb reads and fans of atmospheric, intricately crafted crime fiction shouldn't miss out.
This is the most personal instalment since the first book, Cold as Hell introduced Áróra and her search for her missing sister, Ísafold. Áróra hears some bewildering news which, while potentially devastating, also offers her bittersweet hope that she might finally learn the truth about her sister's fate. Despite long having accepted that Ísafold was murdered, she cannot rest until her body is discovered. However, the testimony of a three-year-old girl who claims to be Ísafold reincarnated isn't something she initially believes can be anything but a cruel hoax – until the child tells her things that she couldn't possibly know.
I have to admit to being somewhat sceptical about the subject of past lives, even though when she was two, my own daughter told me about her "other daddy", a man called Lance who died in a plane crash! However, as Daniel and Helena question little Ester Lóa's parents, Lilja Sigurdardóttir gradually ensures that we gladly accept the possibility that she is telling the truth, strange as it may seem.
It's a difficult time for Áróra and her obsession with improving her physical strength sees her make some misguided decisions which ironically leave her more fragile than ever. Lilja Sigurdardóttir's sympathetic portrayal of her flaws renders her a compelling believable protagonist and in spite of her mistakes, readers will always be on her side.
Her boyfriend, Daniel provides stalwart support but his attentions become divided after his friend and tenant, Lady Gúgúlú disappears. I've loved this fabulous drag queen since her first appearance and was thrilled to see her character developed further in Dark as Night. It soon becomes obvious that the people hunting him will stop at nothing and have extensive resources and powerful means of persuasion at their disposal.
The short, pacy chapters which switch between both addictive storylines meant I raced through the book, often with my heart pounding. Both are compulsively tense; the mystery surrounding Ísafold explores the heartbreaking need for some form of resolution, while the subplot crackles with excitement and danger. Meanwhile, the richly atmospheric descriptions of Iceland and the contrast between city life and the remote glacial countryside means it almost becomes a character in its own right. Dark as Night is arguably Lilja Sigurdardóttir's best book to date – although she consistently sets the bar very high indeed! A word of thanks here too for Lorenza Garcia's translation. With its perceptive characterisation and breathtakingly immersive plotting, this is a suspenseful, dramatic and poignant read from start to finish. Very highly recommended!
This is the most personal instalment since the first book, Cold as Hell introduced Áróra and her search for her missing sister, Ísafold. Áróra hears some bewildering news which, while potentially devastating, also offers her bittersweet hope that she might finally learn the truth about her sister's fate. Despite long having accepted that Ísafold was murdered, she cannot rest until her body is discovered. However, the testimony of a three-year-old girl who claims to be Ísafold reincarnated isn't something she initially believes can be anything but a cruel hoax – until the child tells her things that she couldn't possibly know.
I have to admit to being somewhat sceptical about the subject of past lives, even though when she was two, my own daughter told me about her "other daddy", a man called Lance who died in a plane crash! However, as Daniel and Helena question little Ester Lóa's parents, Lilja Sigurdardóttir gradually ensures that we gladly accept the possibility that she is telling the truth, strange as it may seem.
It's a difficult time for Áróra and her obsession with improving her physical strength sees her make some misguided decisions which ironically leave her more fragile than ever. Lilja Sigurdardóttir's sympathetic portrayal of her flaws renders her a compelling believable protagonist and in spite of her mistakes, readers will always be on her side.
Her boyfriend, Daniel provides stalwart support but his attentions become divided after his friend and tenant, Lady Gúgúlú disappears. I've loved this fabulous drag queen since her first appearance and was thrilled to see her character developed further in Dark as Night. It soon becomes obvious that the people hunting him will stop at nothing and have extensive resources and powerful means of persuasion at their disposal.
The short, pacy chapters which switch between both addictive storylines meant I raced through the book, often with my heart pounding. Both are compulsively tense; the mystery surrounding Ísafold explores the heartbreaking need for some form of resolution, while the subplot crackles with excitement and danger. Meanwhile, the richly atmospheric descriptions of Iceland and the contrast between city life and the remote glacial countryside means it almost becomes a character in its own right. Dark as Night is arguably Lilja Sigurdardóttir's best book to date – although she consistently sets the bar very high indeed! A word of thanks here too for Lorenza Garcia's translation. With its perceptive characterisation and breathtakingly immersive plotting, this is a suspenseful, dramatic and poignant read from start to finish. Very highly recommended!
October 21, 2024
I have absolutely devoured every book in the Áróra Investigation series, and Dark As Night is my favourite so far.
Lilja Sigurdardóttir is probably my favourite Icelandic author, she never fails to produce a story full of action and tense plots, with characters that are relatable in an incredibly described, and very evocative setting.
Áróra Jónsdóttir and her sister Ísafold were brought up in England by their late Icelandic father and their British mother who still lives in the UK. Ísafold disappeared some years ago; and Áróra has always believed that she was murdered by her violent boyfriend, a man who has since also disappeared. Her body has never been found, despite Áróra's many attempts to find her. She will never leave Iceland until she knows what happened to her sister.
Áróra works for the Directorate of Tax Investigations, tracking down monies that corporations have tried to hide away. She's something of a loose cannon at times, obsessed with pumping weights, not shy of using steroids to help her build strength and tearing around in her powerful Tesla. Her boyfriend, police officer Daníel tries his best to keep her on the straight and narrow, but it's a daily struggle. She's a strong woman who has one aim ... to discover what happened to her sister.
Sigurdardóttir writes in short snappy chapters that really appeal to me. Despite the length of the chapters, and the overall novel, there's such a lot packed into this story, it's breathtaking in its energy at times. The reader is treated to more and more as each page flashes by, it's intriguing and tightly plotted.
There are two main threads to the plot line. We have a very young child who claims that she is Ísafold reincarnated. This is a difficult, emotional time for Áróra, her head tells her that it's nonsense, yet her heart tells her that there may be something in it. The toddler knows so much about her and her sister, about their life with their late Father, it's puzzling. Daníel is doing his best to investigate these claims whilst also comforting her as she struggles with dealing with it.
Daníel has his own issues. His long-term tenant and good friend, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú has upped and left after four happy years of living with him. Just a short note, with little detail is left and when Daníel is visited by three mysterious men who are looking for Lady, it soon becomes clear that there's a whole lot of danger in store.
Written with such style and flair, with the accompanying descriptions of the Icelandic landscape, both the busy city and the isolation of the glacial areas, this is such a thrill packed and exciting read. The various plot lines work seamlessly together, creating a novel that is twisty and just fabulous.
Highly recommended by me.
Lilja Sigurdardóttir is probably my favourite Icelandic author, she never fails to produce a story full of action and tense plots, with characters that are relatable in an incredibly described, and very evocative setting.
Áróra Jónsdóttir and her sister Ísafold were brought up in England by their late Icelandic father and their British mother who still lives in the UK. Ísafold disappeared some years ago; and Áróra has always believed that she was murdered by her violent boyfriend, a man who has since also disappeared. Her body has never been found, despite Áróra's many attempts to find her. She will never leave Iceland until she knows what happened to her sister.
Áróra works for the Directorate of Tax Investigations, tracking down monies that corporations have tried to hide away. She's something of a loose cannon at times, obsessed with pumping weights, not shy of using steroids to help her build strength and tearing around in her powerful Tesla. Her boyfriend, police officer Daníel tries his best to keep her on the straight and narrow, but it's a daily struggle. She's a strong woman who has one aim ... to discover what happened to her sister.
Sigurdardóttir writes in short snappy chapters that really appeal to me. Despite the length of the chapters, and the overall novel, there's such a lot packed into this story, it's breathtaking in its energy at times. The reader is treated to more and more as each page flashes by, it's intriguing and tightly plotted.
There are two main threads to the plot line. We have a very young child who claims that she is Ísafold reincarnated. This is a difficult, emotional time for Áróra, her head tells her that it's nonsense, yet her heart tells her that there may be something in it. The toddler knows so much about her and her sister, about their life with their late Father, it's puzzling. Daníel is doing his best to investigate these claims whilst also comforting her as she struggles with dealing with it.
Daníel has his own issues. His long-term tenant and good friend, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú has upped and left after four happy years of living with him. Just a short note, with little detail is left and when Daníel is visited by three mysterious men who are looking for Lady, it soon becomes clear that there's a whole lot of danger in store.
Written with such style and flair, with the accompanying descriptions of the Icelandic landscape, both the busy city and the isolation of the glacial areas, this is such a thrill packed and exciting read. The various plot lines work seamlessly together, creating a novel that is twisty and just fabulous.
Highly recommended by me.
August 27, 2024
Well ... having been hooked on this series from the beginning, I have to say that this is perhaps the most emotional and tense book yet. There are two very different threads in this story but both will have you completely on tenterhooks from start to finish. On the one hand we have our old friend Áróra, who is knocked for six after getting a call from someone who says their child is claiming to be the reincarnation of her long lost sister, Ísafold. On the other, Áróra's partner, Daníel, has his own mystery to solve, the disappearance of his tenant and friend, Lady Gúgúlú. Now the latter disappearance, whilst still unexpected, is not wholly unexplained as Lady G leaves Daníel a note, which would be fine if not for the fact that he left behind all of his belongings, and now there are a trio to very shady, very dangerous, characters trying to track him down. All of which combines to get the tension heaving and the intrigue off the scale and had me tearing through the book at a great rate of knots.
I do love the character of Áróra. She is a very focused and strong woman, quite imposingly so from a physical perspective, but it is fair to say that not knowing what has happened to her sister does have an impact upon her. She seems to try to make up for the loss of her sister by pushing herself to the very limit physically, a fact that is starting to impact upon her not only strength wise, but personality wise, for reasons that become very clear in the reading. You don't need to have read the other books in the series to realise the impact that being told a three year old girl claims to be the reincarnation of Ísafold may have on Áróra, who has long believed her sister to be dead, from around the same time as young Ester Lóa was born as it happens.
I like how the author has played these scenes out, always providing some element of doubt about the veracity of the child's claims, from her parent's 'hobby' to the simple unwillingness of Áróra's friends to believe them. But there are those moments when you do just sit back and wonder. Maybe, just maybe ... There are too many moments, too many times when things cannot be simply explained away, so much so that it pushes the police to follow a new lead that may just give them all some of the answers they crave.
As for the disappearance of Lady G, or Haraldur as Daníel knows him, this adds a real quota or tension and pace to the story. Just who are these mysterious men who are chasing him and what do they want? It's hard to imagine that someone who has lived such a seemingly ostentatious life could actually be on the run, but the more we learn about his past, the more drawn into the story I became. I loved this kind of distraction, and as much as it felt as though it had come from almost nowhere, it actually totally made sense too. I loved exploring Lady G's past, and finding out the answer to a big mystery that had been plaguing Daníel for as long as we have known him. For that part of the book to make sense, you really do need to have read all of the previous books, and why would you not want to? In fact, to get the most out of this book in particular, to understand why Ester Lóa's story makes such an impact, you really need to have read book one at the very least.
I am really drawn to the characters in this series, from Àróra, with her sometimes suspect methods of investigation, to her partner Daníel, who seems incredibly patient with her all the times she is a t her lowest. He understands Àróra so well, as becomes very clear in this book, and is as determined and focused as she is in his quest to understand what happened to Hardaldur, one that is set to be quite painful. Then there is Daníel's work partner, Helena, who is as in tune Daníel professionally, as Daníel is with Àróra emotionally. Add in all of the othe r characters on the periphery of theirs, and Haraldur's lives, and you have a wonderfully diverse array of personalities that add real dimension and authenticity to to story.
There is a real mixture of tension and emotion in this book that kept me captivated from start to finish. The ending is particularly poignant and left me with something of a smile on my face. I love coming back to these characters and I am almost sad to have finished this book as I know it means we are drawing close to the end of the series. Do not fear though. As much as many questions are answered in this fourth instalment, some new ones are asked and I cannot wait to see what Lilja Sigurðardóttir has left in store for us and Àróra. My thanks to translator Lorenza García for bringing the book to life in English for us and capturing all of the energy, tension, angst and emotion of this wonderful range of characters. Definitely recommended for fans of the series. For newcomers, start at the beginning. You won't regret it.
I do love the character of Áróra. She is a very focused and strong woman, quite imposingly so from a physical perspective, but it is fair to say that not knowing what has happened to her sister does have an impact upon her. She seems to try to make up for the loss of her sister by pushing herself to the very limit physically, a fact that is starting to impact upon her not only strength wise, but personality wise, for reasons that become very clear in the reading. You don't need to have read the other books in the series to realise the impact that being told a three year old girl claims to be the reincarnation of Ísafold may have on Áróra, who has long believed her sister to be dead, from around the same time as young Ester Lóa was born as it happens.
I like how the author has played these scenes out, always providing some element of doubt about the veracity of the child's claims, from her parent's 'hobby' to the simple unwillingness of Áróra's friends to believe them. But there are those moments when you do just sit back and wonder. Maybe, just maybe ... There are too many moments, too many times when things cannot be simply explained away, so much so that it pushes the police to follow a new lead that may just give them all some of the answers they crave.
As for the disappearance of Lady G, or Haraldur as Daníel knows him, this adds a real quota or tension and pace to the story. Just who are these mysterious men who are chasing him and what do they want? It's hard to imagine that someone who has lived such a seemingly ostentatious life could actually be on the run, but the more we learn about his past, the more drawn into the story I became. I loved this kind of distraction, and as much as it felt as though it had come from almost nowhere, it actually totally made sense too. I loved exploring Lady G's past, and finding out the answer to a big mystery that had been plaguing Daníel for as long as we have known him. For that part of the book to make sense, you really do need to have read all of the previous books, and why would you not want to? In fact, to get the most out of this book in particular, to understand why Ester Lóa's story makes such an impact, you really need to have read book one at the very least.
I am really drawn to the characters in this series, from Àróra, with her sometimes suspect methods of investigation, to her partner Daníel, who seems incredibly patient with her all the times she is a t her lowest. He understands Àróra so well, as becomes very clear in this book, and is as determined and focused as she is in his quest to understand what happened to Hardaldur, one that is set to be quite painful. Then there is Daníel's work partner, Helena, who is as in tune Daníel professionally, as Daníel is with Àróra emotionally. Add in all of the othe r characters on the periphery of theirs, and Haraldur's lives, and you have a wonderfully diverse array of personalities that add real dimension and authenticity to to story.
There is a real mixture of tension and emotion in this book that kept me captivated from start to finish. The ending is particularly poignant and left me with something of a smile on my face. I love coming back to these characters and I am almost sad to have finished this book as I know it means we are drawing close to the end of the series. Do not fear though. As much as many questions are answered in this fourth instalment, some new ones are asked and I cannot wait to see what Lilja Sigurðardóttir has left in store for us and Àróra. My thanks to translator Lorenza García for bringing the book to life in English for us and capturing all of the energy, tension, angst and emotion of this wonderful range of characters. Definitely recommended for fans of the series. For newcomers, start at the beginning. You won't regret it.
October 12, 2024
Here is my review for Dark As Night by Lilja Sigurdardottir
I really got into this twisty and turny story by Lilja Sigurdardottir which is the fourth book in the series. Arora gets information that a three year old child that she has never met is saying that she is her missing sister, Isafold, reincarnated. When she meets the child she seems more convinced than ever that it could be true and they know the last moments of Isafold’s life plus where she may be buried. She has been searching for her sister for three years and never learnt this information and it’s still an open file with the police. It was a terrific read which I really enjoyed and there was more going on in the story as well. It was an amazing read and kept me riveted for hours at a time, only moving to make a mug of coffee. I liked the character Arora who is brainy and strong willed aparted from taking steroids to build up her body strength. She is good at her job. The writing was excellent and the plotting was extremely good. The translation was excellent. I like reading Icelandic crime as it's so gritty and their crime is sometimes different to ours due to the difference in temperatures and the loneliness of places. I can’t pronounce the place names though!
Blurb :
When Áróra receives a call telling her that a child she’s never met is claiming to be her missing sister reincarnated, she is devastated … as ridiculous as the allegations might seem. For three years she has been searching for her sister without finding a single clue, and now this strange child seems to have new information.
On the same day, Icelandic detective Daníel returns home to find a note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú, giving notice on her flat and explaining that she has to leave the country. Daníel is immediately suspicious, and when three threatening men appear, looking for Lady, it’s clear to him that something is very wrong…
And as Iceland’s long dark nights continue into springtime, that is just the very beginning…
Twisty, intricately plotted and atmospheric, Dark as Night is the highly anticipated fourth book in the addictive An Áróra Investigation series, as Áróra and her friends face unimaginable danger and extraordinary experiences that may change everything, forever…
I really got into this twisty and turny story by Lilja Sigurdardottir which is the fourth book in the series. Arora gets information that a three year old child that she has never met is saying that she is her missing sister, Isafold, reincarnated. When she meets the child she seems more convinced than ever that it could be true and they know the last moments of Isafold’s life plus where she may be buried. She has been searching for her sister for three years and never learnt this information and it’s still an open file with the police. It was a terrific read which I really enjoyed and there was more going on in the story as well. It was an amazing read and kept me riveted for hours at a time, only moving to make a mug of coffee. I liked the character Arora who is brainy and strong willed aparted from taking steroids to build up her body strength. She is good at her job. The writing was excellent and the plotting was extremely good. The translation was excellent. I like reading Icelandic crime as it's so gritty and their crime is sometimes different to ours due to the difference in temperatures and the loneliness of places. I can’t pronounce the place names though!
Blurb :
When Áróra receives a call telling her that a child she’s never met is claiming to be her missing sister reincarnated, she is devastated … as ridiculous as the allegations might seem. For three years she has been searching for her sister without finding a single clue, and now this strange child seems to have new information.
On the same day, Icelandic detective Daníel returns home to find a note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú, giving notice on her flat and explaining that she has to leave the country. Daníel is immediately suspicious, and when three threatening men appear, looking for Lady, it’s clear to him that something is very wrong…
And as Iceland’s long dark nights continue into springtime, that is just the very beginning…
Twisty, intricately plotted and atmospheric, Dark as Night is the highly anticipated fourth book in the addictive An Áróra Investigation series, as Áróra and her friends face unimaginable danger and extraordinary experiences that may change everything, forever…
October 28, 2024
I’m a big, big fan of this series by Lilja Sigurdardottir and Dark as Night, the latest book, is my favourite in the series to date. Throughout the series, Arora has struggled to come to terms with the disappearance of her sister, Ísafold, and the lack of progress in the investigation to find her. It’s why she has continued to remain in Iceland all this time, rather than return home to her mother in the UK, as she knows the answers are here. But at the beginning of this book, Arora is shocked when the parents of a three-year-old girl contact her and tell her their daughter claims to be Ísafold reincarnated. When Arora meets their child, she tells Arora things only she and Ísafold could have known. It is clear to see the emotional impact this has on Arora, and I was intrigued to find out if what the young girl was saying to her was true.
Reincarnation is a topic that’s always fascinated me. I was hooked right from the start as Arora tries to make sense of what this young girl is telling her. Arora begins to believe that, finally, she might be able to find her sister and find out what happened to her. But not everyone is convinced that the young girl is her sister reincarnated, and her husband, police officer, Daníel is keen for Arora not to go down this path. There are some battles along the way as Arora fights to get justice for her sister and to find out what happened to her once and for all. Over the course of the novel, she comes to truly believe that this young girl may have answers for her.
I really liked how Lilja Sigurdardottir really delved more into Ísafold’s disappearance, as over the course of the series, I’ve really wanted to find out what happened to her, and now I’m desperate to get my hands on the next book. There are short, pacy chapters which keep you turning the pages, which is what makes this book, one that you will stay up all night reading.
This is a brilliant series, and although Dark as Night can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend that you read the previous books, particularly as it will help you to understand Arora’s journey more and really deepen your connection to her as a character. This book will definitely be in my top ten reads of the year.
Reincarnation is a topic that’s always fascinated me. I was hooked right from the start as Arora tries to make sense of what this young girl is telling her. Arora begins to believe that, finally, she might be able to find her sister and find out what happened to her. But not everyone is convinced that the young girl is her sister reincarnated, and her husband, police officer, Daníel is keen for Arora not to go down this path. There are some battles along the way as Arora fights to get justice for her sister and to find out what happened to her once and for all. Over the course of the novel, she comes to truly believe that this young girl may have answers for her.
I really liked how Lilja Sigurdardottir really delved more into Ísafold’s disappearance, as over the course of the series, I’ve really wanted to find out what happened to her, and now I’m desperate to get my hands on the next book. There are short, pacy chapters which keep you turning the pages, which is what makes this book, one that you will stay up all night reading.
This is a brilliant series, and although Dark as Night can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend that you read the previous books, particularly as it will help you to understand Arora’s journey more and really deepen your connection to her as a character. This book will definitely be in my top ten reads of the year.
October 13, 2024
I've become addicted to Sigurðóttir's fast-moving, involving series featuring Áróra and her group of friends and colleagues - Daníel, Helena and, of course, Daníel's tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú.
In Dark as Night, all their lives are about to be shaken up and some answers given - though not perhaps ones we'd welcome. Áróra is still searching for her missing sister, but now news comes of a child who seems to be dead Ísafold reincarnated. And Gúgúlú has vanished din the night, leaving no word - but three menacing strangers are on her track. In both cases, Daníel finds his status as a policeman of little help.
Plus, Áróra's behaving erratically...
I love the moment in a series when he writer can trust the readers, and the characters, knowing that if things get a little strange, the latter will continue to enchant the former. The Áróra we see here isn't someone who, met for the first time, you'll necessarily want to know more about, but we have come to understand and like Áróra and so will be patient with a woman who's been through a lot. Similarly Gúgúlú has been a great support to Daníel while remaining on the margins of these stories so it's good to learn more about here, and indeed to learn things which rather blow open the nature of these stories. As to the latter, I felt there was always a bit more going on than the standard price procedural and it's good to have that confirmed, although I don't want to say too much for fear of spoilers.
Through all this, the relationship between Áróra and Daníel continues to intrigue the reader and deepen at the same time. It's not an easy one - while she may be on the side of the angels she doesn't always play by the rules, and has her own secrets, which are straining things here - but a sense does come through of two people who are at bottom devoted to one another and that each will do anything for the other. (Given the kinds of threats which arise in Sigurðóttir's Idecalnd, the latter is perhaps more a matter of when, than if, some great sacrifice will be needed).
Lorenza Garcia's translation is excellent in what must have been a challenging task given the nature of some of the content, and I would love to ask a few questions about how certain things were tackled!
In Dark as Night, all their lives are about to be shaken up and some answers given - though not perhaps ones we'd welcome. Áróra is still searching for her missing sister, but now news comes of a child who seems to be dead Ísafold reincarnated. And Gúgúlú has vanished din the night, leaving no word - but three menacing strangers are on her track. In both cases, Daníel finds his status as a policeman of little help.
Plus, Áróra's behaving erratically...
I love the moment in a series when he writer can trust the readers, and the characters, knowing that if things get a little strange, the latter will continue to enchant the former. The Áróra we see here isn't someone who, met for the first time, you'll necessarily want to know more about, but we have come to understand and like Áróra and so will be patient with a woman who's been through a lot. Similarly Gúgúlú has been a great support to Daníel while remaining on the margins of these stories so it's good to learn more about here, and indeed to learn things which rather blow open the nature of these stories. As to the latter, I felt there was always a bit more going on than the standard price procedural and it's good to have that confirmed, although I don't want to say too much for fear of spoilers.
Through all this, the relationship between Áróra and Daníel continues to intrigue the reader and deepen at the same time. It's not an easy one - while she may be on the side of the angels she doesn't always play by the rules, and has her own secrets, which are straining things here - but a sense does come through of two people who are at bottom devoted to one another and that each will do anything for the other. (Given the kinds of threats which arise in Sigurðóttir's Idecalnd, the latter is perhaps more a matter of when, than if, some great sacrifice will be needed).
Lorenza Garcia's translation is excellent in what must have been a challenging task given the nature of some of the content, and I would love to ask a few questions about how certain things were tackled!
February 5, 2025
Dark as Night, #4, Áróra Series, Lilja Sigurðardóttir. Lorenza Garcia translator. Iceland Pre ordered English iBook, 26/9/2024, 7.99. Read 4/2/2025. 5/5.
Another good read #4, Áróra Series and I hope a #5 will come soon. While Áróra still is focused on finding her missing sister she and Daniel have established a good relationship. Daniel’s colleague Helene is missing her partner and Daniel’s tenant, drag queen Lady Gugulu has disappeared. Meanwhile a toddler is claiming to be Áróra’s missing sister. They struggle to accept reincarnation and that this may be possible. Áróra sets off to try and track down Lady / Robert ….. Dark as Night is a page turner with good short chapters and really some good dramatic moments. A very good read …..
‘ A terrific tale with twist after twist ... Lilja Sigurdardottir is fast becoming my favourite Icelandic crime writer' The Times Book of the Month
“When Arora receives a call telling her that a child she' s never met is claiming to be her missing sister reincarnated, she is devastated ... as ridiculous as the allegations might seem. For three years she has been searching for her sister without finding a single clue, and now this strange child seems to have new information.
On the same day, Icelandic Detective Daniel returns home to find a note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gugulu, giving notice on her flat and explaining that she has to leave the country. Daniel is immediately suspicious, and when three threatening men appear, looking for the Lady, it' s clear to him that something is very wrong...
Twisty, intricately plotted and atmospheric, Dark as Night is the highly anticipated fourth book in the addictive An Arora Investigation series, as Arora and her team face unimaginable danger and extraordinary experiences that may change everything, forever...”
Another good read #4, Áróra Series and I hope a #5 will come soon. While Áróra still is focused on finding her missing sister she and Daniel have established a good relationship. Daniel’s colleague Helene is missing her partner and Daniel’s tenant, drag queen Lady Gugulu has disappeared. Meanwhile a toddler is claiming to be Áróra’s missing sister. They struggle to accept reincarnation and that this may be possible. Áróra sets off to try and track down Lady / Robert ….. Dark as Night is a page turner with good short chapters and really some good dramatic moments. A very good read …..
‘ A terrific tale with twist after twist ... Lilja Sigurdardottir is fast becoming my favourite Icelandic crime writer' The Times Book of the Month
“When Arora receives a call telling her that a child she' s never met is claiming to be her missing sister reincarnated, she is devastated ... as ridiculous as the allegations might seem. For three years she has been searching for her sister without finding a single clue, and now this strange child seems to have new information.
On the same day, Icelandic Detective Daniel returns home to find a note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gugulu, giving notice on her flat and explaining that she has to leave the country. Daniel is immediately suspicious, and when three threatening men appear, looking for the Lady, it' s clear to him that something is very wrong...
Twisty, intricately plotted and atmospheric, Dark as Night is the highly anticipated fourth book in the addictive An Arora Investigation series, as Arora and her team face unimaginable danger and extraordinary experiences that may change everything, forever...”
October 16, 2024
This series started in book one Cold As Hell when Áróra returned to Iceland from England, where she was living with her English mother (her father was Icelandic), to search for her missing sister Ísafold. The sisters have been estranged because of Ísafold’s abusive relationship with boyfriend Björn.
Lots of things have happened since then, but it has been assumed by everyone, including the police, that Ísafold is dead and that Björn murdered her and hid her body somewhere out there. But without a body, there can be no closure for Áróra.
Áróra is now in a proper relationship with police officer Daniel (it’s been brewing since the beginning). They don’t live together yet.
But back to the story proper. In fact there are two stories. Áróra receives a strange phone call from a woman who claims that her three year old daughter believes she is the reincarnation of Ísafold. The child appears to know things that only a handful of people know – Áróra, her mother, Daniel and the officers assigned to the case. Áróra is devastated, angry and upset. Daniel is sceptical – he doesn’t believe any of this stuff.
On the same day, Daniel returns home to find a note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú. It just says goodbye, you can dump my stuff, I won’t be coming back, in fact I’m leaving the country, family matters blah blah. But Daniel doesn’t believe a word of it. She wouldn’t have left her phone and other important personal items. She would have said goodbye. Then three men appear looking for her, and their behaviour is definitely suspicious.
And so we follow the two stories, both becoming more and more complicated, especially that of Lady Gúgúlú. It’s far more involved and dark that we could have ever imagined. But Áróra is good at this sort of thing. Follow the money and you’ll discover the truth. But what about the child? Is she really Ísafold? Or is this some horrible ruse by the parents to use Áróra’s heartache to their own ends.
I loved the supernatural element of the story. I used to watch an American TV series years ago where the police actually met with psychics to discover the locations of missing persons. It fascinates me. But a three year old?
Many thanks to @annecater for inviting me to be part of #RandomThingsTours.
Lots of things have happened since then, but it has been assumed by everyone, including the police, that Ísafold is dead and that Björn murdered her and hid her body somewhere out there. But without a body, there can be no closure for Áróra.
Áróra is now in a proper relationship with police officer Daniel (it’s been brewing since the beginning). They don’t live together yet.
But back to the story proper. In fact there are two stories. Áróra receives a strange phone call from a woman who claims that her three year old daughter believes she is the reincarnation of Ísafold. The child appears to know things that only a handful of people know – Áróra, her mother, Daniel and the officers assigned to the case. Áróra is devastated, angry and upset. Daniel is sceptical – he doesn’t believe any of this stuff.
On the same day, Daniel returns home to find a note from his tenant, drag queen Lady Gúgúlú. It just says goodbye, you can dump my stuff, I won’t be coming back, in fact I’m leaving the country, family matters blah blah. But Daniel doesn’t believe a word of it. She wouldn’t have left her phone and other important personal items. She would have said goodbye. Then three men appear looking for her, and their behaviour is definitely suspicious.
And so we follow the two stories, both becoming more and more complicated, especially that of Lady Gúgúlú. It’s far more involved and dark that we could have ever imagined. But Áróra is good at this sort of thing. Follow the money and you’ll discover the truth. But what about the child? Is she really Ísafold? Or is this some horrible ruse by the parents to use Áróra’s heartache to their own ends.
I loved the supernatural element of the story. I used to watch an American TV series years ago where the police actually met with psychics to discover the locations of missing persons. It fascinates me. But a three year old?
Many thanks to @annecater for inviting me to be part of #RandomThingsTours.
October 22, 2024
The fourth book in the An Áróra Investigation series, featuring financial investigator Áróra Jónsdóttir and her partner Police detective Daníel Hanson, and there are two distinct threads to this book. Firstly Daniel’s longtime tenant Haraldur, better known as Lady Gúgúlú, has disappeared leaving a note saying to dispose of all their belongings. Secondly Áróra is contacted by a women who says that her three year old daughter thinks she is Áróra’s missing sister Ísafold! Two very strange situations.
Briefly, Daniel is suspicious about both events. He is sure that Lady Gúgúlú would not have left willingly without any of her belongings, even her mobile phone was left behind. Áróra meets with the child and her family and, against her better judgement, is beginning to believe but the child really could be her sister reincarnated. Suspicious of the families motives Daniel persuades Áróra they should investigate each other’s cases.
I really enjoyed this series and both threads shine a light on two of the biggest mysteries since the early books, Ísafold’s disappearance and Lady Gúgúlú’s past life. The outcome of both was a total shock; I would never have reached either conclusion. Some excellent red herrings in this atmospheric and tense book. A very enjoyable and exciting read. I loved it.
Briefly, Daniel is suspicious about both events. He is sure that Lady Gúgúlú would not have left willingly without any of her belongings, even her mobile phone was left behind. Áróra meets with the child and her family and, against her better judgement, is beginning to believe but the child really could be her sister reincarnated. Suspicious of the families motives Daniel persuades Áróra they should investigate each other’s cases.
I really enjoyed this series and both threads shine a light on two of the biggest mysteries since the early books, Ísafold’s disappearance and Lady Gúgúlú’s past life. The outcome of both was a total shock; I would never have reached either conclusion. Some excellent red herrings in this atmospheric and tense book. A very enjoyable and exciting read. I loved it.
October 24, 2024
I loved this read. I liked the fact that we had the dual storyline that involved our two main characters Áróra and Daniel. Now this is book number 4 in the Áróra investigates series but I haven’t read any of the others before reading this one however, I don’t feel that it mattered.
I liked Áróra, she was a tough character who also had a really sensitive side to her as well. She was dealing with the loss of her sister who was suspected to have been murdered by her boyfriend but her body had never been found. This formed one part of our storyline and this was really unique.
I thought the way that Áróra’s sisters part of the story was written was just brilliant, it’s not something I expected and I’m not going to lie, I was convinced it was all a con but was hoping something would happen to help find her sister.
The second part of our storyline was Daniel’s long term lodger had left a note and seemingly vanished, I felt very invested in following Robert’s travels to go into hiding and loved the thought that he had put into everything. Again, the reasons behind his need to go into hiding were very intriguing and unique and I was very invested in whether he was going to be able to stay hidden or not.
I loved how it was written and thought the characters were really well written and intriguing. I will have to go back and read the other books in the series as I really did enjoy this one.
I liked Áróra, she was a tough character who also had a really sensitive side to her as well. She was dealing with the loss of her sister who was suspected to have been murdered by her boyfriend but her body had never been found. This formed one part of our storyline and this was really unique.
I thought the way that Áróra’s sisters part of the story was written was just brilliant, it’s not something I expected and I’m not going to lie, I was convinced it was all a con but was hoping something would happen to help find her sister.
The second part of our storyline was Daniel’s long term lodger had left a note and seemingly vanished, I felt very invested in following Robert’s travels to go into hiding and loved the thought that he had put into everything. Again, the reasons behind his need to go into hiding were very intriguing and unique and I was very invested in whether he was going to be able to stay hidden or not.
I loved how it was written and thought the characters were really well written and intriguing. I will have to go back and read the other books in the series as I really did enjoy this one.
October 22, 2024
This is a great series with an amazing central character, in Arora. You get to see her strength and determination but also her sadnesses and vulnerabilities. There are several story strands in this novel but two main ones. One the one hand, Arora is shocked to be approached by two parents who say their little daughter is saying that she is the reincarnation of Arora's missing sister. On the other hand, Arora's boyfriend's tenant goes missing. The story around hi, gets more and more complicated.
This is a fast paced story which carries you along with twists and turns. The backdrop of Iceland with winter approaching adds to the loneliness and isolation. It feels to be concealing a few secrets beneath the surface. I thought that this was a beautifully translated text by which flowed easily and always felt natural. Big congratulations are due to Lorenza Garcia. There is plenty of detail in the story threads to keep you engrossed and of course, wanting more.
In short: hidden secrets in a dark landscape
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
This is a fast paced story which carries you along with twists and turns. The backdrop of Iceland with winter approaching adds to the loneliness and isolation. It feels to be concealing a few secrets beneath the surface. I thought that this was a beautifully translated text by which flowed easily and always felt natural. Big congratulations are due to Lorenza Garcia. There is plenty of detail in the story threads to keep you engrossed and of course, wanting more.
In short: hidden secrets in a dark landscape
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
October 25, 2024
set in Iceland.
I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion.
I have not read any of the books of this series, but I was to jump right into Arora’s and Daniel stories without any difficulties.
The plot moves quickly with two mysteries being solved by Arora and Daniel. This is set against the beautifully atmospheric description of the the towns and landscapes of Iceland. Some of these descriptions encompass the Canary Islands and England when Arora travels the world in trying t find out who the truth of Lady Gugulu’s disappearance – an amazing story in itself but I loved the mystery of the the little girl claiming to be Arora’s dead sister. I couldn’t put the book down and I loved the unexpected reveals throughout the story.
Arora is a fascinating character, a woman dealing with trauma of her missing sister and her obsession for the perfect body was interesting and I wonder how this particular subplot will end.
The book is a cleverly plotted thrillwr with an explosive finale and the possible hint of the supernaturnal kept me hooked from start to finish.
I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion.
I have not read any of the books of this series, but I was to jump right into Arora’s and Daniel stories without any difficulties.
The plot moves quickly with two mysteries being solved by Arora and Daniel. This is set against the beautifully atmospheric description of the the towns and landscapes of Iceland. Some of these descriptions encompass the Canary Islands and England when Arora travels the world in trying t find out who the truth of Lady Gugulu’s disappearance – an amazing story in itself but I loved the mystery of the the little girl claiming to be Arora’s dead sister. I couldn’t put the book down and I loved the unexpected reveals throughout the story.
Arora is a fascinating character, a woman dealing with trauma of her missing sister and her obsession for the perfect body was interesting and I wonder how this particular subplot will end.
The book is a cleverly plotted thrillwr with an explosive finale and the possible hint of the supernaturnal kept me hooked from start to finish.
October 27, 2024
Islantilaisen Lilja Sigurdardóttirin neljäs dekkari Kuolonmusta laava läheni päähenkilön, Áróran, siskon löytymistä. Sisko oli ollut kateissa jo ensimmäisestä kirjasta lähtien. Kun eräs nainen lähestyi Áróraa ja kertoi tyttärensä olevan Áróran jälleensyntynyt sisko, niin se kuulosti ihan valheelta. Se ei ollut valhetta.
Áróra seurusteli paikallisen poliisin, Danielin, kanssa. Daniel pisti tutkimusvaihteen päälle, sillä hän uskoi, että kyseiset henkilöt halusivat jotain, tai olivat jotenkin kiinni kadonneen siskon tapauksessa. Tämäkin juoni jatkuu seuraavassa kirjassa. Daniel oli jo neljä vuotta vuokrannut asunnoksi muuttamaansa autotallia Lady Gúgúlúlle, dragartistille. Nyt vuokralainen oli kadonnut ja jättänyt jälkeensä omituisen viestin. Pian autotallissa kävi ikäviä vieraita.
Áróran tutkimuksia-sarja on Islantiin sijoittuva napakka ja koukuttava sarja. Islannin ilmasto ja maisemat sekä islantilainen elämänmeno näkyvät selkeästi ja kiinnostavasti samalla, kun rikokset ratkeavat tai jatkuvat edelleen seuraavassa dekkarissa.
Áróra seurusteli paikallisen poliisin, Danielin, kanssa. Daniel pisti tutkimusvaihteen päälle, sillä hän uskoi, että kyseiset henkilöt halusivat jotain, tai olivat jotenkin kiinni kadonneen siskon tapauksessa. Tämäkin juoni jatkuu seuraavassa kirjassa. Daniel oli jo neljä vuotta vuokrannut asunnoksi muuttamaansa autotallia Lady Gúgúlúlle, dragartistille. Nyt vuokralainen oli kadonnut ja jättänyt jälkeensä omituisen viestin. Pian autotallissa kävi ikäviä vieraita.
Áróran tutkimuksia-sarja on Islantiin sijoittuva napakka ja koukuttava sarja. Islannin ilmasto ja maisemat sekä islantilainen elämänmeno näkyvät selkeästi ja kiinnostavasti samalla, kun rikokset ratkeavat tai jatkuvat edelleen seuraavassa dekkarissa.
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