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An Áróra Investigation #3
Valev kui lumi
Lumisel talvehommikul avastatakse Reykjavíki lähistelt mahajäetud merekonteiner. Selles on nelja noore naise surnukehad – ja viies naine vaagub hinge. Sellal kui politseidetektiiv Daníel püüab lahendada oma karjääri kõige jõhkramat kuritegu, uurib Áróra üht kahtlast meest, kes on juhtumisi kihlatud Daníeli endise naisega, ja ühendusniite on veelgi ...
Daníeli ja Áróra juhtumid sunnivad neid rinda pistma armutute, kohutavaid plaane hauduvate kurjategijatega, ning samal ajal otsib Áróra ikka veel oma õde Ísafoldi, kelle jäljetu kadumine teda endiselt kummitab.
Kui temperatuur langeb ning ööpäev läbi vältav pimedus ja lumi pidurdavad nende pingutusi, muutub uurimine aina ohtlikumaks ... kõigile.
Emotsionaalne, käänuline ja erakordselt pingeline „Valev kui lumi“ on haarava, auhinnatud „Áróra“-sarja kolmas raamat. Selles jõuavad koduranda kuriteod, mis on pandud toime Islandist palju kaugemal ... Varem on ilmunud „Jäine päike“ ja „Punane kui veri“.
Daníeli ja Áróra juhtumid sunnivad neid rinda pistma armutute, kohutavaid plaane hauduvate kurjategijatega, ning samal ajal otsib Áróra ikka veel oma õde Ísafoldi, kelle jäljetu kadumine teda endiselt kummitab.
Kui temperatuur langeb ning ööpäev läbi vältav pimedus ja lumi pidurdavad nende pingutusi, muutub uurimine aina ohtlikumaks ... kõigile.
Emotsionaalne, käänuline ja erakordselt pingeline „Valev kui lumi“ on haarava, auhinnatud „Áróra“-sarja kolmas raamat. Selles jõuavad koduranda kuriteod, mis on pandud toime Islandist palju kaugemal ... Varem on ilmunud „Jäine päike“ ja „Punane kui veri“.
264 pages, Paperback
First published October 14, 2021
139 people are currently reading
505 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 117 reviews
October 23, 2023
The third Áróra Investigation proved to be another tense and twisty reading experience. Though, to be fair, Áróra is not involved as much as is previous books - Daníel Hansson of the Reykjavik Police CID takes center stage this time...
When Daníel is one of the first on scene when a shipping container is found with the bodies of beautiful young women inside, he feels it is just too much for him at present and he requests that he take a 'back seat' on this particular investigation due to burn-out. Also, Daníel has his two children coming to stay with him for ten days and he wants to spend time with them. Things never go as planned however, and Daníel finds himself neck deep in the murky case going forward.
Ripped from the headlines, the circumstances depicted in this novel were only too real, and the dire desperation of these poor smuggled women were difficult at times to read about. The police investigation alternated with the backstory of the lone survivor of the container, Bisi Babalola, a Nigerian woman. Her tale was written with empathy and understanding.
The Icelandic settings were well described, though the author seems to have a love/hate relationship with the country - as does her protagonist, Áróra.
With themes of human smuggling, infidelity, and international organized crime, this book has a lot going on. All that, and the potential 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.
When Daníel is one of the first on scene when a shipping container is found with the bodies of beautiful young women inside, he feels it is just too much for him at present and he requests that he take a 'back seat' on this particular investigation due to burn-out. Also, Daníel has his two children coming to stay with him for ten days and he wants to spend time with them. Things never go as planned however, and Daníel finds himself neck deep in the murky case going forward.
Ripped from the headlines, the circumstances depicted in this novel were only too real, and the dire desperation of these poor smuggled women were difficult at times to read about. The police investigation alternated with the backstory of the lone survivor of the container, Bisi Babalola, a Nigerian woman. Her tale was written with empathy and understanding.
The Icelandic settings were well described, though the author seems to have a love/hate relationship with the country - as does her protagonist, Áróra.
With themes of human smuggling, infidelity, and international organized crime, this book has a lot going on. All that, and the potential 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 12, 2023
This series just gets better with each book. Our main protagonists Daniel and Arora don't have their troubles to seek. Daniel is plunged into the investigation of the bodies in the container. Arora still persists in trying to find her missing sister. Their paths cross and they find they have more in common than just finding out the truth.
I love how Lilja can not only write a good crime novel, set in chilly Iceland and Involving human traffickers and ruthless criminals, but also how she writes the interaction between humans. Also how things are not black or white but more a murky grey.
Daniel asks Arora to investigate a Russian named Sergei and his interaction with Daniel's former wife. This opens a bigger can of worms than anyone can expect.
This book is told in various POV and the reader will think it is obvious where the story is going, but don't be too sure they're plenty twists to astound the reader.
Lilja is a brilliant writer and her books get better every time she writes another one. Her prose and storylines are excellent and are of the highest quality.
I love how Lilja can not only write a good crime novel, set in chilly Iceland and Involving human traffickers and ruthless criminals, but also how she writes the interaction between humans. Also how things are not black or white but more a murky grey.
Daniel asks Arora to investigate a Russian named Sergei and his interaction with Daniel's former wife. This opens a bigger can of worms than anyone can expect.
This book is told in various POV and the reader will think it is obvious where the story is going, but don't be too sure they're plenty twists to astound the reader.
Lilja is a brilliant writer and her books get better every time she writes another one. Her prose and storylines are excellent and are of the highest quality.
October 4, 2023
White as Snow is the third book in the Áróra Investigation series, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel.
A shipping container is found near Reykjavík. Inside it are bodies of young, beautiful women. Four of them are dead, but one is still alive.
An Icelandic police detective Daníel is assigned to the case, but he really struggles when he sees the container and its contents. It’s without a doubt that this is the hardest case of his career.
Meanwhile, Áróra is investigating the background of a Russian national, Sergei. He is twenty seven and in a relationship with Elin, who is forty seven and used to be married to Daníel. Elin is growing increasingly worried of Sergei’s suspicious behaviour and strange phone calls.
As both investigations progress, Daníel and Áróra find a common link between the two cases…
Wow! What a story!
I was desperate to find out what Sergei’s motivations were and I was so gutted for poor Elin, but it’s better she discovered his true nature now, rather than later.
I was saddened by Bibi’s story. She was the girl who was found alive inside the shipping container. I was angry at her family back in Nigeria, who were prejudiced and worried more about their honour and social status, rather than their daughter’s wellbeing.
I’m so happy for Daníel and Áróra. I really want them to make a go of things and finally be together. Who knows what the fourth book will bring?
Saying that, I cannot wait for another book in the series.
A shipping container is found near Reykjavík. Inside it are bodies of young, beautiful women. Four of them are dead, but one is still alive.
An Icelandic police detective Daníel is assigned to the case, but he really struggles when he sees the container and its contents. It’s without a doubt that this is the hardest case of his career.
Meanwhile, Áróra is investigating the background of a Russian national, Sergei. He is twenty seven and in a relationship with Elin, who is forty seven and used to be married to Daníel. Elin is growing increasingly worried of Sergei’s suspicious behaviour and strange phone calls.
As both investigations progress, Daníel and Áróra find a common link between the two cases…
Wow! What a story!
I was desperate to find out what Sergei’s motivations were and I was so gutted for poor Elin, but it’s better she discovered his true nature now, rather than later.
I was saddened by Bibi’s story. She was the girl who was found alive inside the shipping container. I was angry at her family back in Nigeria, who were prejudiced and worried more about their honour and social status, rather than their daughter’s wellbeing.
I’m so happy for Daníel and Áróra. I really want them to make a go of things and finally be together. Who knows what the fourth book will bring?
Saying that, I cannot wait for another book in the series.
May 1, 2025
Ah, see oli tõeliselt hea lugemine. Islandi krimi on lemmik niikuinii, aga üle nelja tärni ma ajaviitekirjandusele siiski tavaliselt anda ei raatsi. Seekord küll. Põhjuseks ilmselt lisaks põnevale süžeele ja sümpaatsetele peategelastele ka aktuaalne ning hingepuudutav inimkaubanduse liin. Meeldis, et vaatamata jõhkrale kuritööle aimub raamatu lõpust lootust helgele tulevikule.
December 2, 2024
Set in Iceland this book is the story of a chilling crime that has a cop and a freelance investigator on their toes. It is written well and the pages go by quickly. Makes for a good travel read.
The one big negative was that the plot was slightly predictable. It is not a question of who or why but how. I wish there was a stronger element of twist and surprise.
The one big negative was that the plot was slightly predictable. It is not a question of who or why but how. I wish there was a stronger element of twist and surprise.
May 30, 2022
3.5 🌟
January 22, 2024
White as snow by Lilja Sigurðardóttir.
Book 3 of An Áróra Investigation.
On a snowy winter morning, an abandoned shipping container is discovered near Reykjavík. Inside are the bodies of five young women – one of them barely alive.
As Icelandic Police detective Daníel struggles to investigate the most brutal crime of his career, Áróra looks into the background of a suspicious man, who turns out to be engaged to Daníel's former wife, and the connections don't stop there…
Daníel and Áróra's cases pit them both against ruthless criminals with horrifying agendas, while Áróra persists with her search for her missing sister, Ísafold, whose devastating disappearance continues to haunt her. As the temperature drops and the 24-hour darkness and freezing snow hamper their efforts, their investigations become increasingly dangerous … for everyone.
Atmospheric, twisty and breathtakingly tense, White as Snow is the third instalment in the riveting, award-winning An Áróra Investigation series, as crimes committed far beyond Iceland's shores come home…
To start off translation was really good. I was able to read this fine. What an opening to book 3 of this brilliant series. Really dark and well written. The first chapter alone. I loved how Lilja Sigurðardóttir describes the smell and darkness in the container. I'm really enjoying this series. I couldn't put it down and read in 2 days. I did like Arora and Daniel. I loved Daniels neighbour Lady. What a character. I'm really enjoying this series and I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
Book 3 of An Áróra Investigation.
On a snowy winter morning, an abandoned shipping container is discovered near Reykjavík. Inside are the bodies of five young women – one of them barely alive.
As Icelandic Police detective Daníel struggles to investigate the most brutal crime of his career, Áróra looks into the background of a suspicious man, who turns out to be engaged to Daníel's former wife, and the connections don't stop there…
Daníel and Áróra's cases pit them both against ruthless criminals with horrifying agendas, while Áróra persists with her search for her missing sister, Ísafold, whose devastating disappearance continues to haunt her. As the temperature drops and the 24-hour darkness and freezing snow hamper their efforts, their investigations become increasingly dangerous … for everyone.
Atmospheric, twisty and breathtakingly tense, White as Snow is the third instalment in the riveting, award-winning An Áróra Investigation series, as crimes committed far beyond Iceland's shores come home…
To start off translation was really good. I was able to read this fine. What an opening to book 3 of this brilliant series. Really dark and well written. The first chapter alone. I loved how Lilja Sigurðardóttir describes the smell and darkness in the container. I'm really enjoying this series. I couldn't put it down and read in 2 days. I did like Arora and Daniel. I loved Daniels neighbour Lady. What a character. I'm really enjoying this series and I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
January 5, 2026
Cold, methodical, and relentlessly tense, White as Snow cements Lilja Sigurðardóttir as a master of bleak Nordic noir. The discovery of a shipping container filled with murdered women is instantly chilling, and the icy Reykjavík setting — with its unending darkness and crushing cold, becomes as oppressive as the crimes themselves.
Daníel and Áróra make a compelling investigative pairing, their parallel cases gradually knotting together in a way that feels both organic and unsettling. Áróra’s ongoing search for her missing sister adds an emotional undercurrent that keeps the story grounded in grief and obsession, while Daníel’s personal entanglements blur the line between professional duty and private catastrophe.
The pacing is deliberate rather than breathless, but the tension never truly loosens its grip. This isn’t a splashy thriller, it’s a slow suffocation, layered with corruption, exploitation, and quiet menace. The villains feel disturbingly plausible, and the revelations land with a heavy sense of inevitability rather than shock value.
Daníel and Áróra make a compelling investigative pairing, their parallel cases gradually knotting together in a way that feels both organic and unsettling. Áróra’s ongoing search for her missing sister adds an emotional undercurrent that keeps the story grounded in grief and obsession, while Daníel’s personal entanglements blur the line between professional duty and private catastrophe.
The pacing is deliberate rather than breathless, but the tension never truly loosens its grip. This isn’t a splashy thriller, it’s a slow suffocation, layered with corruption, exploitation, and quiet menace. The villains feel disturbingly plausible, and the revelations land with a heavy sense of inevitability rather than shock value.
February 18, 2025
En riktigt vidrig (men välskriven) historia om trafficking och hänsynslösa gangsters.
Tyvärr är Arora bara en bifigur i denna bok och handlingen kretsar mer kring poliserna Daniel och Helena, vilket också betyder att inget nytt framkommer i jakten på Aroras syster Isafold. Bokens stora behållning är som vanligt Lady Gugulu och hennes sarkastiska kommentarer.
Tyvärr är Arora bara en bifigur i denna bok och handlingen kretsar mer kring poliserna Daniel och Helena, vilket också betyder att inget nytt framkommer i jakten på Aroras syster Isafold. Bokens stora behållning är som vanligt Lady Gugulu och hennes sarkastiska kommentarer.
February 28, 2024
I think the plot was going somewhere and seemed promising... but why would anyone put people in a container and ship them to Iceland during winter, not knowing that they would freeze to death?? I expected more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2024
Spannender Island-Krimi
Klappentext:
An einem dunklen, verschneiten Wintermorgen wird in der Nähe von Reykjavík ein verlassener Schiffscontainer entdeckt. Darin: die leblosen Körper von fünf jungen Frauen. Wie kann so etwas Furchtbares geschehen, und wer zur Hölle steckt dahinter? Während der Polizist Daniel sich mit dem brutalsten Verbrechen seiner Karriere konfrontiert sieht, untersucht die Finanzermittlerin Áróra den Hintergrund eines Verdächtigen, der sich als Verlobter von Daniels Ex-Frau entpuppt. Daniel und Áróra treffen auf skrupellose Verbrecher, die bereit sind, bis zum Äußersten zu gehen. Unterdessen sucht Áróra weiter nach ihrer vermissten Schwester Ísafold, deren plötzliches Verschwinden sie immer noch verfolgt. Und während die Temperaturen weiter sinken und die andauernde Dunkelheit und der eisige Schnee ihre Arbeit zunehmend behindern, werden ihre Ermittlungen immer gefährlicher.
„Schneeweiss“ ist der dritte Band der Áróra-Reihe von Lilja Sigurdardóttir.
Im ersten Band „Höllenkalt“ und im zweiten Band „Blutrot“ hat man Áróra ja schon kennengelernt. Sie sucht immer noch nach der Leiche ihrer ermordeten Schwester. Áróra wartet darauf, bis die Witterungsverhältnisse besser werden und sie mit ihrer Drohne die Vulkanlandschaft wieder abfliegen kann.
Aber auch so bleibt es für Áróra spannend.
Während Daniel in einem schrecklichen Fall ermittelt, bittet er Áróra seiner Ex-Frau zu helfen ihren russischen Liebhaber zu überprüfen.
Daniel und seine Kollegen stecken in einem sehr grausamen Fall. In einem Container wurde 5 Frauen gefunden. 4 davon tot und eine hat gerade so überlebt.
Bei den jeweiligen Ermittlungen kreuzen sich die Wege von Daniel und Áróra
Áróra ist selbstständige Ermittlerin im Bereich Wirtschaftskriminalität. Sie ist eigenbrötlerisch und ich habe im ersten Band etwas gebraucht um mit ihr warmzuwerden, mittlerweile ist sie mir sympathisch und ich freue mich immer wieder sie zu treffen.
Der Polizist Daniel ist mir seit dem ersten Band sympathisch. Wie seine Beziehung zu Áróra steht, wird auch in diesem Band nicht ganz geklärt.
Lilja Sigurdardóttir setzt ihre Charaktere gut in Szene und führt sie gekonnt durch die Geschichte.
Schon nach wenigen Seiten hat mich die Spannung wieder gepackt und es blieb bis zum Ende spannend.
Lilja Sigurdardóttir hat einen flüssigen und angenehm zu lesenden Schreibstil. Die Autorin beschreibt die Handlungsorte, die einsamen Gegenden Islands, sehr gut.
„Schneeweiss“ ist wieder ein spannender Island-Krimi, den ich in einem Rutsch gelesen habe.
Ich hoffe, die Reihe wird weitergehen.
Klappentext:
An einem dunklen, verschneiten Wintermorgen wird in der Nähe von Reykjavík ein verlassener Schiffscontainer entdeckt. Darin: die leblosen Körper von fünf jungen Frauen. Wie kann so etwas Furchtbares geschehen, und wer zur Hölle steckt dahinter? Während der Polizist Daniel sich mit dem brutalsten Verbrechen seiner Karriere konfrontiert sieht, untersucht die Finanzermittlerin Áróra den Hintergrund eines Verdächtigen, der sich als Verlobter von Daniels Ex-Frau entpuppt. Daniel und Áróra treffen auf skrupellose Verbrecher, die bereit sind, bis zum Äußersten zu gehen. Unterdessen sucht Áróra weiter nach ihrer vermissten Schwester Ísafold, deren plötzliches Verschwinden sie immer noch verfolgt. Und während die Temperaturen weiter sinken und die andauernde Dunkelheit und der eisige Schnee ihre Arbeit zunehmend behindern, werden ihre Ermittlungen immer gefährlicher.
„Schneeweiss“ ist der dritte Band der Áróra-Reihe von Lilja Sigurdardóttir.
Im ersten Band „Höllenkalt“ und im zweiten Band „Blutrot“ hat man Áróra ja schon kennengelernt. Sie sucht immer noch nach der Leiche ihrer ermordeten Schwester. Áróra wartet darauf, bis die Witterungsverhältnisse besser werden und sie mit ihrer Drohne die Vulkanlandschaft wieder abfliegen kann.
Aber auch so bleibt es für Áróra spannend.
Während Daniel in einem schrecklichen Fall ermittelt, bittet er Áróra seiner Ex-Frau zu helfen ihren russischen Liebhaber zu überprüfen.
Daniel und seine Kollegen stecken in einem sehr grausamen Fall. In einem Container wurde 5 Frauen gefunden. 4 davon tot und eine hat gerade so überlebt.
Bei den jeweiligen Ermittlungen kreuzen sich die Wege von Daniel und Áróra
Áróra ist selbstständige Ermittlerin im Bereich Wirtschaftskriminalität. Sie ist eigenbrötlerisch und ich habe im ersten Band etwas gebraucht um mit ihr warmzuwerden, mittlerweile ist sie mir sympathisch und ich freue mich immer wieder sie zu treffen.
Der Polizist Daniel ist mir seit dem ersten Band sympathisch. Wie seine Beziehung zu Áróra steht, wird auch in diesem Band nicht ganz geklärt.
Lilja Sigurdardóttir setzt ihre Charaktere gut in Szene und führt sie gekonnt durch die Geschichte.
Schon nach wenigen Seiten hat mich die Spannung wieder gepackt und es blieb bis zum Ende spannend.
Lilja Sigurdardóttir hat einen flüssigen und angenehm zu lesenden Schreibstil. Die Autorin beschreibt die Handlungsorte, die einsamen Gegenden Islands, sehr gut.
„Schneeweiss“ ist wieder ein spannender Island-Krimi, den ich in einem Rutsch gelesen habe.
Ich hoffe, die Reihe wird weitergehen.
February 1, 2024
Not enough Áróra and her investigations for my liking (c.f. the first book where she did loads and was really the key character in it) but still a good, solid story. A joy to listen to, too.
December 28, 2021
Smá augljóst plot en samt alveg spennandi söguþráður.
October 31, 2023
There is something appropriate about reading this book on a cold October day near Halloween. No snow here, yet, but the forecast is warning of some just a few miles to our north. The book itself takes place in winter, near Reykjavik, but the plot is more chilling than even a Nordic winter, and creepier than any Halloween costume. What’s sad is that the phrase, “ripped from the headlines” could apply to this book.
A shipping container left on the sands of a beach on a cold winter’s day holds a gruesome secret. Four women lie dead in the container. A fifth woman is frostbitten and hypothermic, but has somehow survived the ordeal. Police immediately suspect human trafficking is the cause of these deaths, but don’t initially have much to go on to find the people who did this.
Meanwhile, Daniel’s ex-wife Elin calls on Áróra to look into the accounts of her current boyfriend. She and Danel remain good friends, so Daniel suggests she speak with Áróra, who is an outstanding private investigator. Sergei is loving and attentive, but Elin suspects that he is also seeing someone else while living with her and urging her to marry him.
Both of these plotlines are woven together, along with the survivor’s memories of her horrifying experience. It is not an “easy” read, but it is worth the investment. This may be a work of fiction, but there are too many women enslaved and prostituted, promised an education or a career, threatened with the deaths of those they love, all for the savage use of vile men. There are some who voluntarily enter sex work and who do make it their career. There are many, many more who depend on it to feed an addiction, to scrape together a living, to satisfy a controlling or coercive pimp (or madam), or who are tricked into it by stone-hearted human traffickers.
I would love to think we could have a world where a story like this would be impossible to imagine. We don’t. We won’t. Hercules may slice off one head of the Hydra, but two more spring up to fill the space. I have a friend who was a cop for 20 years, many of them as a detective. As gruesome and heartrending as the novel is, the reality he saw during those years was equally gruesome and heartrending.
I would be doing the novel a disservice if my only reaction was to the plot itself. How Lilja Sigurðardóttir reveals the plot piece by piece is smart and compelling. There were twists and turns throughout, the dialogue (both between characters and within their own minds) was sharp. The complexities of love show throughout the book–forbidden love, secret love, growing love, obsessive love. Some of the characters struggle with romance. Others struggle with themselves. All of them, though, are fleshed out as complex and realistic people. Beside the protagonists, I find Daniel’s partner Helena more enjoyable from one book to the next. And the survivor from the container, Bisi, is amazing!
And I would again be remiss if I failed to thank Quentin Bates for his excellent work translating for Ms.Sigurðardóttir. Their teamwork is extraordinary. I am unable to appreciate the power of her writing in her native Icelandic, but it shines through in the translation. It is quite possible to do a tepid translation, focusing on the words rather than on the story. Bates explains truths that are apparent to Icelanders but not as apparent to most English-speakers, includes cultural bon mots like the choice of local snack foods including sheep’s head, and does so without reveling in the details that foreign readers might find distracting–like what precisely a sheep’s head snack entails.
A shipping container left on the sands of a beach on a cold winter’s day holds a gruesome secret. Four women lie dead in the container. A fifth woman is frostbitten and hypothermic, but has somehow survived the ordeal. Police immediately suspect human trafficking is the cause of these deaths, but don’t initially have much to go on to find the people who did this.
Meanwhile, Daniel’s ex-wife Elin calls on Áróra to look into the accounts of her current boyfriend. She and Danel remain good friends, so Daniel suggests she speak with Áróra, who is an outstanding private investigator. Sergei is loving and attentive, but Elin suspects that he is also seeing someone else while living with her and urging her to marry him.
Both of these plotlines are woven together, along with the survivor’s memories of her horrifying experience. It is not an “easy” read, but it is worth the investment. This may be a work of fiction, but there are too many women enslaved and prostituted, promised an education or a career, threatened with the deaths of those they love, all for the savage use of vile men. There are some who voluntarily enter sex work and who do make it their career. There are many, many more who depend on it to feed an addiction, to scrape together a living, to satisfy a controlling or coercive pimp (or madam), or who are tricked into it by stone-hearted human traffickers.
I would love to think we could have a world where a story like this would be impossible to imagine. We don’t. We won’t. Hercules may slice off one head of the Hydra, but two more spring up to fill the space. I have a friend who was a cop for 20 years, many of them as a detective. As gruesome and heartrending as the novel is, the reality he saw during those years was equally gruesome and heartrending.
I would be doing the novel a disservice if my only reaction was to the plot itself. How Lilja Sigurðardóttir reveals the plot piece by piece is smart and compelling. There were twists and turns throughout, the dialogue (both between characters and within their own minds) was sharp. The complexities of love show throughout the book–forbidden love, secret love, growing love, obsessive love. Some of the characters struggle with romance. Others struggle with themselves. All of them, though, are fleshed out as complex and realistic people. Beside the protagonists, I find Daniel’s partner Helena more enjoyable from one book to the next. And the survivor from the container, Bisi, is amazing!
And I would again be remiss if I failed to thank Quentin Bates for his excellent work translating for Ms.Sigurðardóttir. Their teamwork is extraordinary. I am unable to appreciate the power of her writing in her native Icelandic, but it shines through in the translation. It is quite possible to do a tepid translation, focusing on the words rather than on the story. Bates explains truths that are apparent to Icelanders but not as apparent to most English-speakers, includes cultural bon mots like the choice of local snack foods including sheep’s head, and does so without reveling in the details that foreign readers might find distracting–like what precisely a sheep’s head snack entails.
October 29, 2023
God, I love this series and it just gets better with every instalment! Truth be told, I’m a big fan of this author’s work so my expectations going in are always off the scale but she never fails to deliver. White as Snow is no different, if anything I loved it even more than I thought I would.
White as Snow is the third book in the An Áróra Investigation series, featuring Áróra, a private investigator, and Daníel, a police detective. Should you read Cold as Hell and Red as Blood before tackling White as Snow? I mean, why wouldn’t you, they’re fab! However, while I do think you get a richer reading experience having prior knowledge of the main characters, I’m sure you’d be able to enjoy White as Snow without it.
Áróra initially came to Iceland to look for her missing sister, but in White as Snow, that investigation is put on the back burner because there is just too much other stuff going on. Her friend and potential love interest Daníel gets her involved in a private investigation that turns out to be a lot bigger than either of them suspected at the onset. Meanwhile Daníel himself is up to his eyeballs in a murder investigation with multiple victims, and that, too, is just the tip of the iceberg.
As to be expected from this author, White as Snow is carefully and cleverly plotted, with a few well-timed twists and reveals along the way. Told in short and snappy chapters alternating the various points of view, White as Snow makes for some highly addictive reading. It should come with its own warning on the cover! Beware, you won’t be able to put this down once you pick it up!
Due to the nature of the investigations, White as Snow is particularly chilling. It’s also scarily plausible, which makes it all the more chilling. However, it’s also highly entertaining, and there are enough lighter elements to prevent it from getting too dark and heavy.
I love that White as Snow is not your typical police procedural, thanks to Áróra. And she is just such a fantastic protagonist, as is Daníel. I really don’t want to wait another year to find out what happens to them next! And Bisi! What a fantastic character she is, she felt like a real person and I was rooting for her every step of the way.
Once again expertly translated by Quentin Bates, White as Snow was an absolute pleasure to read, I flew through it entirely effortlessly. It’s a thrilling ride, super addictive, fast-paced and atmospheric with a great sense of setting. And the finale is literally breath-taking! Highly recommended.
Massive thanks to Orenda Books for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
White as Snow is the third book in the An Áróra Investigation series, featuring Áróra, a private investigator, and Daníel, a police detective. Should you read Cold as Hell and Red as Blood before tackling White as Snow? I mean, why wouldn’t you, they’re fab! However, while I do think you get a richer reading experience having prior knowledge of the main characters, I’m sure you’d be able to enjoy White as Snow without it.
Áróra initially came to Iceland to look for her missing sister, but in White as Snow, that investigation is put on the back burner because there is just too much other stuff going on. Her friend and potential love interest Daníel gets her involved in a private investigation that turns out to be a lot bigger than either of them suspected at the onset. Meanwhile Daníel himself is up to his eyeballs in a murder investigation with multiple victims, and that, too, is just the tip of the iceberg.
As to be expected from this author, White as Snow is carefully and cleverly plotted, with a few well-timed twists and reveals along the way. Told in short and snappy chapters alternating the various points of view, White as Snow makes for some highly addictive reading. It should come with its own warning on the cover! Beware, you won’t be able to put this down once you pick it up!
Due to the nature of the investigations, White as Snow is particularly chilling. It’s also scarily plausible, which makes it all the more chilling. However, it’s also highly entertaining, and there are enough lighter elements to prevent it from getting too dark and heavy.
I love that White as Snow is not your typical police procedural, thanks to Áróra. And she is just such a fantastic protagonist, as is Daníel. I really don’t want to wait another year to find out what happens to them next! And Bisi! What a fantastic character she is, she felt like a real person and I was rooting for her every step of the way.
Once again expertly translated by Quentin Bates, White as Snow was an absolute pleasure to read, I flew through it entirely effortlessly. It’s a thrilling ride, super addictive, fast-paced and atmospheric with a great sense of setting. And the finale is literally breath-taking! Highly recommended.
Massive thanks to Orenda Books for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
July 3, 2025
That last chapter, wow. I will forever remember the character of Bisi. Lilja, always write, please.
October 22, 2023
White as Snow is the third book in the An Aróra Investigation series.
Daníel and Aróra investigate the circumstances of an abandoned shipping container, which was used to transport five women to Iceland. When it is opened, it is discovered that four of the women are dead, the fifth barely alive. It is left to Daníel and his colleagues to track down those responsible.
Aróra, who is conducting a separate investigation, discovers that she has had past dealings with the man she is investigating. It soon becomes clear he is a person of interest to the police.
White as Snow is a chilling, harrowing read, as it deals with people trafficking, something which is all too real. The situation these five women find themselves in, makes for grim reading. One can assume that the unfortunate cases we see on the news, are every bit as grim, perhaps worse.
Daníel and Aróra investigate the circumstances of an abandoned shipping container, which was used to transport five women to Iceland. When it is opened, it is discovered that four of the women are dead, the fifth barely alive. It is left to Daníel and his colleagues to track down those responsible.
Aróra, who is conducting a separate investigation, discovers that she has had past dealings with the man she is investigating. It soon becomes clear he is a person of interest to the police.
White as Snow is a chilling, harrowing read, as it deals with people trafficking, something which is all too real. The situation these five women find themselves in, makes for grim reading. One can assume that the unfortunate cases we see on the news, are every bit as grim, perhaps worse.
December 6, 2024
It would seem the author had a list of boxes to tick when writing this book.
First there was lots of unnecessary swearing.
There was a black person as one of the central characters.
The central character, a male detective, had an obligatory female as his sidekick.
The female sidekick, of course, was in a lesbian relationship.
It was set in Iceland, but the author introduced another black from Africa, an Asian, and someone from Ukraine.
Russians got a good mention.
The main character was looking after his kids from a broken marriage.
His ex was in a relationship with a Russian criminal, and of course, he became involved in that.
Another female character fancied the detective and much time was wasted in reading about all the domestic matters.
Oh, and there was a bit of a story somewhere amongst all that.
First there was lots of unnecessary swearing.
There was a black person as one of the central characters.
The central character, a male detective, had an obligatory female as his sidekick.
The female sidekick, of course, was in a lesbian relationship.
It was set in Iceland, but the author introduced another black from Africa, an Asian, and someone from Ukraine.
Russians got a good mention.
The main character was looking after his kids from a broken marriage.
His ex was in a relationship with a Russian criminal, and of course, he became involved in that.
Another female character fancied the detective and much time was wasted in reading about all the domestic matters.
Oh, and there was a bit of a story somewhere amongst all that.
October 17, 2023
Élin is besotted with her boyfriend. Sergei wants Élin to hurry and sort out registering with the authorities so that they can get married and he can get his permanent residency. This, his phone calls in Russian and that he doesn’t want a prenup are making alarm bells ring for Élin. She asks Daniel, who is not only a police officer but her ex husband, for help. Daniel refers her to Áróra.
A shipping container is reported as it has been left on parkland outside Reykjavik. Daniel, as part of CID, goes to check it out. When he arrives he finds an horrific scene, five bodies which have obviously been in the container for some time. Five women, seemingly not Icelandic, dead!This is going to be a very difficult case. As he checks for any sign of life one of the women gets up and leaves the container. How could she have survived?
Áróra takes Élin’s case, it’s not her usual but since Daniel made the referral and Élin turns out to be related to her she agrees to check Sergei out. It should be fairly easy to do but as Áróra investigates she uncovers some odd things. She’s worried that Élin, like Áróra’s missing sister Ísafold, is in a toxic relationship and when she realises who Sergei is things take a nasty turn!
As Daniel, who is the main character in this book, and Áróra each investigates their own cases they share information that takes them back to the case in Red as Blood and helps move the current case forward.
In White As Snow we have three threads that of Áróra’s investigation, of the investigation that Daniel is part of and the moving story of how and why Bisi came to be in the container.
A dark, sad story which, whilst it gives some small hope for individual instances, highlights the absolutely horrific and devastating effects of human trafficking and how this modern day slave trade has infiltrated every corner of the world. It is an appalling indictment that this still goes on today – if there was no profit, in other words no market, for the traffickers and organised prostitution then surely it would stop? Why is there such a need? It seems that it is almost by luck that these criminals are being caught and brought to justice.
There is a little lightness in the form of the incomparable Lady Gúgúlú and Daniel’s children that is welcome and brings relief to Daniel and the reader.
Lilja Sigurdardóttir has written a wonderful, chilling, tense, multi layered and compelling story. She writes beautifully about the landscape and the way these horrendous acts impact the investigators as well as the victims of such crimes. She allows the reader to become immersed and really understand what the characters are feeling as well as how they deal with what is and has happened. You feel the horror, the desperation, the fear, the pain and the anger. You feel disgust for the perpetrators and how chillingly indifferent they are to what they are doing and how it has such devastating consequences.
Surely one of the best Icelandic writers Lilja Sigurdardóttir is certainly a terrific, talented writer who is an amazing storyteller. A favourite author of a wonderful series I would always highly recommend.
With thanks to Orenda Books for bringing readers these wonderful books in translation and to Quentin Bates for his terrific translation of White As Snow by Lilja Sigurdardóttir.
Thanks
Many thanks to Orenda Books for an eARC of White as Snow by Lilja Sigurdardóttir and to Anne at RandomThingsTours for the invitation to this amazing BlogTour.
A shipping container is reported as it has been left on parkland outside Reykjavik. Daniel, as part of CID, goes to check it out. When he arrives he finds an horrific scene, five bodies which have obviously been in the container for some time. Five women, seemingly not Icelandic, dead!This is going to be a very difficult case. As he checks for any sign of life one of the women gets up and leaves the container. How could she have survived?
Áróra takes Élin’s case, it’s not her usual but since Daniel made the referral and Élin turns out to be related to her she agrees to check Sergei out. It should be fairly easy to do but as Áróra investigates she uncovers some odd things. She’s worried that Élin, like Áróra’s missing sister Ísafold, is in a toxic relationship and when she realises who Sergei is things take a nasty turn!
As Daniel, who is the main character in this book, and Áróra each investigates their own cases they share information that takes them back to the case in Red as Blood and helps move the current case forward.
In White As Snow we have three threads that of Áróra’s investigation, of the investigation that Daniel is part of and the moving story of how and why Bisi came to be in the container.
A dark, sad story which, whilst it gives some small hope for individual instances, highlights the absolutely horrific and devastating effects of human trafficking and how this modern day slave trade has infiltrated every corner of the world. It is an appalling indictment that this still goes on today – if there was no profit, in other words no market, for the traffickers and organised prostitution then surely it would stop? Why is there such a need? It seems that it is almost by luck that these criminals are being caught and brought to justice.
There is a little lightness in the form of the incomparable Lady Gúgúlú and Daniel’s children that is welcome and brings relief to Daniel and the reader.
Lilja Sigurdardóttir has written a wonderful, chilling, tense, multi layered and compelling story. She writes beautifully about the landscape and the way these horrendous acts impact the investigators as well as the victims of such crimes. She allows the reader to become immersed and really understand what the characters are feeling as well as how they deal with what is and has happened. You feel the horror, the desperation, the fear, the pain and the anger. You feel disgust for the perpetrators and how chillingly indifferent they are to what they are doing and how it has such devastating consequences.
Surely one of the best Icelandic writers Lilja Sigurdardóttir is certainly a terrific, talented writer who is an amazing storyteller. A favourite author of a wonderful series I would always highly recommend.
With thanks to Orenda Books for bringing readers these wonderful books in translation and to Quentin Bates for his terrific translation of White As Snow by Lilja Sigurdardóttir.
Thanks
Many thanks to Orenda Books for an eARC of White as Snow by Lilja Sigurdardóttir and to Anne at RandomThingsTours for the invitation to this amazing BlogTour.
October 31, 2023
In the midst of an Icelandic winter, an abandoned shipping container is found in Reykjavík that holds a grim discovery. Inside are the bodies of five young women, who appear to have been left to die in the freezing temperatures. Miraculously, one of them is still alive, and police detective Daníel Hansson desperately hopes she will be the key to explaining the mystery behind this shocking crime scene - if she survives.
As Daníel and his team struggle to make headway in their investigation, Áróra is distracted from her continuing search for her missing sister by a request from Daníel to help his ex-wife Elín delve into the murky past of the much younger Russian man she hopes to marry.
While the snow falls, Daníel and Áróra find themselves embroiled in the world of organised crime, where black hearts care nothing for the vulnerable lives they exploit in pursuit of their own ends, and as the threads of their separate investigations cross-over, danger looms...
White as Snow is the third cracking instalment of the Áróra Investigations series. It can be read as standalone, but is so much better if you have read the previous books, Cold As Hell and Red as Blood, as the backstories of Daníel and Áróra add an extra dimension.
The search for a gang of unscrupulous villains engaged in the very worst kind of people trafficking lies at the heart of the chilling tale, which Sigurđardóttir gives real power to by shining a light on the desperation of the victims who become trapped by them. The case hits Daníel hard, and he feels the pressure of searching for elusive clues while keeping his precious witness safe from those who mean her harm. In parallel, Áróra is persuaded by Daníel to pry into the domestic affairs of his ex-wife, who is trapped in a toxic relationship that brings to the surface uncomfortable memories for Áróra in more ways than one.
The threads of the story weave beautifully together with atmospheric menace, flipping between the disturbing logistics of the people trafficking operation, the teamwork of Daníel and his team, and Áróra's sleuthing, bringing in fascinating elements of police procedural on a local and international scale, and gritty detective noir set against a deliciously described wintry backdrop. The crime story draws you in, with juicy reveals that tie Daníel and Áróra's seemingly unconnected plotlines together, building suspense and keeping you turning the pages as all the little pieces fall into place.
This book impresses with so much more than a well-conceived crime mystery, because around the gritty thrills and spills Sigurđardóttir embroiders details that pick out so much about the complicated feelings that make up the human condition and how they colour the judgement of the characters. She delves into the search for identity; the yearning of those who long for love and human connection; the joy and heartache of family (both blood and found); and the complex emotional baggage that comes with past and present romantic relationships... not to mention, the way she packs a real punch in following the heartrending tales of the victims of human traffickers. This is a crime story with layers, and Quentin Bates does an excellent job ensuring his translation gives them all their moment to shine.
This is another chilling winner from Sigurđardóttir, in a series that just gets better and better. More please!
As Daníel and his team struggle to make headway in their investigation, Áróra is distracted from her continuing search for her missing sister by a request from Daníel to help his ex-wife Elín delve into the murky past of the much younger Russian man she hopes to marry.
While the snow falls, Daníel and Áróra find themselves embroiled in the world of organised crime, where black hearts care nothing for the vulnerable lives they exploit in pursuit of their own ends, and as the threads of their separate investigations cross-over, danger looms...
White as Snow is the third cracking instalment of the Áróra Investigations series. It can be read as standalone, but is so much better if you have read the previous books, Cold As Hell and Red as Blood, as the backstories of Daníel and Áróra add an extra dimension.
The search for a gang of unscrupulous villains engaged in the very worst kind of people trafficking lies at the heart of the chilling tale, which Sigurđardóttir gives real power to by shining a light on the desperation of the victims who become trapped by them. The case hits Daníel hard, and he feels the pressure of searching for elusive clues while keeping his precious witness safe from those who mean her harm. In parallel, Áróra is persuaded by Daníel to pry into the domestic affairs of his ex-wife, who is trapped in a toxic relationship that brings to the surface uncomfortable memories for Áróra in more ways than one.
The threads of the story weave beautifully together with atmospheric menace, flipping between the disturbing logistics of the people trafficking operation, the teamwork of Daníel and his team, and Áróra's sleuthing, bringing in fascinating elements of police procedural on a local and international scale, and gritty detective noir set against a deliciously described wintry backdrop. The crime story draws you in, with juicy reveals that tie Daníel and Áróra's seemingly unconnected plotlines together, building suspense and keeping you turning the pages as all the little pieces fall into place.
This book impresses with so much more than a well-conceived crime mystery, because around the gritty thrills and spills Sigurđardóttir embroiders details that pick out so much about the complicated feelings that make up the human condition and how they colour the judgement of the characters. She delves into the search for identity; the yearning of those who long for love and human connection; the joy and heartache of family (both blood and found); and the complex emotional baggage that comes with past and present romantic relationships... not to mention, the way she packs a real punch in following the heartrending tales of the victims of human traffickers. This is a crime story with layers, and Quentin Bates does an excellent job ensuring his translation gives them all their moment to shine.
This is another chilling winner from Sigurđardóttir, in a series that just gets better and better. More please!
October 16, 2023
This is the third book in the Áróra Investigations series, following Cold as Hell and Red as Blood. I’m glad I read Red as Blood just before White as Snow because there is some overlap. Criminal elements that Áróra, a financial investigator, encounters in it make an appearance in this novel as well.
Five women are found in an abandoned shipping container; only one, Bisi Babalola, is alive. Daníel Hansson, a police detective and Áróra’s friend and romantic interest, becomes involved in this human trafficking case. He is assisted by his colleague Helena who plays a key role in helping Bisi. Meanwhile, Áróra is asked to investigate Sergei, the lover of Elín, Daníel’s ex-wife and Áróra’s cousin. Sergei is pushing for marriage, but Elín has some doubts stemming from secretive conversations he has in Russian, a language she does not understand. From the beginning, I correctly guessed the connection between the two investigations, but it was interesting to read how the links are uncovered.
Readers of the previous novels will be happy to encounter familiar characters, though I found that Áróra is not as involved as in previous cases. My favourite character, Lady Gúgúlú, makes several appearances. She helps to provide some lighter moments in a book that examines the dark side of humanity. The conversations about chick peas and the “step-mother” are welcome relief when abductions, human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and murder are crimes being investigated.
The book focuses on human trafficking. What I appreciated is that the book examines the toll both on victims and investigators. Because Bisi’s perspective is included, we learn, through her flashbacks, how she fell victim to traffickers and the impact her horrific experience has on her. The introduction of Rita later in the novel only emphasizes the latter. Daníel is traumatized by what he sees in the shipping container, so much so that he doesn’t want to be in charge of the case.
Helena works closely with Bisi and I enjoyed reading about how Bisi comes to trust her. It is because of Helena that Bisi begins to cooperate with the police. I was so pleased with myself for correctly guessing the reason for Bisi’s not wanting to return to her home country. And it was great to learn about the development in the relationship between Helena and Sirra which is introduced in Red as Blood.
There is mention of Áróra’s looking for her missing sister, but that search is not concluded, so I assume there will be more books in this series. There’s also the relationship between Áróra and Daníel to develop further. I look forward to the next installment in the series, a series I recommend. Its short, snappy chapters and quick pace make for a fast but enjoyable read.
Please check out my reader's blog (https://schatjesshelves.blogspot.com/) and follow me on Twitter (https://twitter.com/DCYakabuski).
Five women are found in an abandoned shipping container; only one, Bisi Babalola, is alive. Daníel Hansson, a police detective and Áróra’s friend and romantic interest, becomes involved in this human trafficking case. He is assisted by his colleague Helena who plays a key role in helping Bisi. Meanwhile, Áróra is asked to investigate Sergei, the lover of Elín, Daníel’s ex-wife and Áróra’s cousin. Sergei is pushing for marriage, but Elín has some doubts stemming from secretive conversations he has in Russian, a language she does not understand. From the beginning, I correctly guessed the connection between the two investigations, but it was interesting to read how the links are uncovered.
Readers of the previous novels will be happy to encounter familiar characters, though I found that Áróra is not as involved as in previous cases. My favourite character, Lady Gúgúlú, makes several appearances. She helps to provide some lighter moments in a book that examines the dark side of humanity. The conversations about chick peas and the “step-mother” are welcome relief when abductions, human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and murder are crimes being investigated.
The book focuses on human trafficking. What I appreciated is that the book examines the toll both on victims and investigators. Because Bisi’s perspective is included, we learn, through her flashbacks, how she fell victim to traffickers and the impact her horrific experience has on her. The introduction of Rita later in the novel only emphasizes the latter. Daníel is traumatized by what he sees in the shipping container, so much so that he doesn’t want to be in charge of the case.
Helena works closely with Bisi and I enjoyed reading about how Bisi comes to trust her. It is because of Helena that Bisi begins to cooperate with the police. I was so pleased with myself for correctly guessing the reason for Bisi’s not wanting to return to her home country. And it was great to learn about the development in the relationship between Helena and Sirra which is introduced in Red as Blood.
There is mention of Áróra’s looking for her missing sister, but that search is not concluded, so I assume there will be more books in this series. There’s also the relationship between Áróra and Daníel to develop further. I look forward to the next installment in the series, a series I recommend. Its short, snappy chapters and quick pace make for a fast but enjoyable read.
Please check out my reader's blog (https://schatjesshelves.blogspot.com/) and follow me on Twitter (https://twitter.com/DCYakabuski).
October 23, 2023
Nordic Noir is renowned for its stark exploration of gritty contemporary subjects and that is certainly true of Lilja Sigurdardóttir's An Áróra Investigation series. It's a series which keeps getting better and this third instalment, White as Snow is a harrowing, utterly compulsive read from start to finish. It's definitely not necessary to have read Cold as Hell or Red as Blood but they are such superb reads and naturally, there are ongoing storylines and so if possible, I do recommend reading the previous novels if you can.
The upsetting case at the heart of White as Snow is highly topical and while the bitter cold of Iceland results in the claustrophobic death of a group of young women trapped in a shipping container, the scourge of human trafficking is a desperate global issue. The sole survivor, Bisi Babalola is beautifully brought to life and Lilja Sigurdardóttir's empathetic writing humanises what has sadly become a vast, almost unimaginable tragedy, reminding us that these victims are so much more than just statistics. The effect of bearing witness to such an atrocity is obvious too and Daniel's visceral response to the tragedy is almost palpable.
The narrative is shared between a number of characters with Daniel and Helena part of the investigation team trying to identify both the victims and who is responsible for their deaths. There's a heartrending scene later in the book where the four women are finally named and while it's a brief moment in the investigation, I must commend Lilja Sigurdardóttir for ensuring they weren't just faceless, nameless victims. The chapters set in the recent past which explain how Bisi came to be in the shipping container are poignantly believable and underline just how vulnerable people become when official help is so limited and difficult to attain.
Áróra's skills as a financial investigator are called into play when Daniel asks her to look into the background of Sergei, a Russian man who is the boyfriend of his ex-wife, Elin. Connections and coincidences are explored throughout White as Snow but while some links are merely due to Iceland being a small country, others are much darker, with international organised crime as dangerous here as anywhere. However, despite this undoubtedly being a hard-hitting, emotional read, it's not unremittingly bleak and there is hope, courage, kindness and humour found here too; the relationship between Daniel and Áróra happily sees some progression, while the fabulous Lady Gúgúlú proves herself invaluable again.
The cleverly multilayered plot is utterly compelling, with each strand brilliantly woven into this engrossingly atmospheric, thought-provoking thriller. As always, the translation by Quentin Bates is seamlessly unobtrusive and the sense of place engendered throughout is excellent. This is an outstanding addition to an unmissable series, I couldn't put it down and cannot recommend it highly enough.
The upsetting case at the heart of White as Snow is highly topical and while the bitter cold of Iceland results in the claustrophobic death of a group of young women trapped in a shipping container, the scourge of human trafficking is a desperate global issue. The sole survivor, Bisi Babalola is beautifully brought to life and Lilja Sigurdardóttir's empathetic writing humanises what has sadly become a vast, almost unimaginable tragedy, reminding us that these victims are so much more than just statistics. The effect of bearing witness to such an atrocity is obvious too and Daniel's visceral response to the tragedy is almost palpable.
The narrative is shared between a number of characters with Daniel and Helena part of the investigation team trying to identify both the victims and who is responsible for their deaths. There's a heartrending scene later in the book where the four women are finally named and while it's a brief moment in the investigation, I must commend Lilja Sigurdardóttir for ensuring they weren't just faceless, nameless victims. The chapters set in the recent past which explain how Bisi came to be in the shipping container are poignantly believable and underline just how vulnerable people become when official help is so limited and difficult to attain.
Áróra's skills as a financial investigator are called into play when Daniel asks her to look into the background of Sergei, a Russian man who is the boyfriend of his ex-wife, Elin. Connections and coincidences are explored throughout White as Snow but while some links are merely due to Iceland being a small country, others are much darker, with international organised crime as dangerous here as anywhere. However, despite this undoubtedly being a hard-hitting, emotional read, it's not unremittingly bleak and there is hope, courage, kindness and humour found here too; the relationship between Daniel and Áróra happily sees some progression, while the fabulous Lady Gúgúlú proves herself invaluable again.
The cleverly multilayered plot is utterly compelling, with each strand brilliantly woven into this engrossingly atmospheric, thought-provoking thriller. As always, the translation by Quentin Bates is seamlessly unobtrusive and the sense of place engendered throughout is excellent. This is an outstanding addition to an unmissable series, I couldn't put it down and cannot recommend it highly enough.
November 3, 2023
A shipping container has been found on public land containing the bodies of five women. Except upon further investigation, one of the women is hanging on by a thread. Malnourished and suffering from terrible frostbite, the police do their best to keep news of her survival out of the press. As their main witness, they understand all too well that the people responsible for putting her there will do anything to find her and keep her quiet.
Daníel was supposed to be spending the next ten days with his children, but a case this big can't be pawned off. But he also knows that something this dark and twisted is going to loom heavy over him for a while.
At the same time, Áróra, still trying to figure out where she stands with Daníel, has been asked to look into his ex-wife's new partner. The man, Sergei, is quite a bit younger than Elín, an artist who happens to be Áróra's own father's cousin. Though Elín is admittedly smitten, her father is insisting on a pre-nup to protect her assets. And yet Sergei is not only pushing for marriage, under the auspices of needing to be an official resident to get a job, he's against the pre-nup as well. And so it's Áróra's job to find out if there's something shady about the Elín's love interest.
As both Daníel and Áróra's cases go on, there becomes hints of a connection. At first, it's an old case that both worked on in the past and links to the shipping container. But as they move forward, the links between the two cases become even stronger.
So first off, the thing on just about every series reader's mind: yes, if you're new to Lilja Sigurdardóttir's work, you can start here fairly easily. You are missing character development, particular in the case of Áróra as her sister's disappearance continues to be a main focus of hers. Some spoilers, but you can easily read White as Snow as a lead in to the series.
Technically this is referred to as the third in the Áróra Investigation Series (Cold as Hell, Red as Blood, White as Snow). But what seems to be common with Nordic Noir in particular is the fact that the series does not focus exclusively on Áróra herself, but rather a whole cast of characters. Daníel and his fellow officer, Helena, get just as much page time as Áróra herself. Which is something that I really love because you not only get backstory on all of them, but the interactions between them become more rich and detailed.
In this particular outing, you also get Bisi, the survivor. A Nigerian cut off from her family and seeking refuge, she falls prey to the worst kind of people. Her story comes out in two parts: past (before the container) and present. And she plays her cards close, in part because she's reliant on the officers and immigration to keep her safe.
White as Snow is an excellent addition to what is a fantastic series! If you haven't discovered it yet, do dive in here. Or start from the beginning and read them in order (my recommendation!) for the full experience!
Daníel was supposed to be spending the next ten days with his children, but a case this big can't be pawned off. But he also knows that something this dark and twisted is going to loom heavy over him for a while.
At the same time, Áróra, still trying to figure out where she stands with Daníel, has been asked to look into his ex-wife's new partner. The man, Sergei, is quite a bit younger than Elín, an artist who happens to be Áróra's own father's cousin. Though Elín is admittedly smitten, her father is insisting on a pre-nup to protect her assets. And yet Sergei is not only pushing for marriage, under the auspices of needing to be an official resident to get a job, he's against the pre-nup as well. And so it's Áróra's job to find out if there's something shady about the Elín's love interest.
As both Daníel and Áróra's cases go on, there becomes hints of a connection. At first, it's an old case that both worked on in the past and links to the shipping container. But as they move forward, the links between the two cases become even stronger.
So first off, the thing on just about every series reader's mind: yes, if you're new to Lilja Sigurdardóttir's work, you can start here fairly easily. You are missing character development, particular in the case of Áróra as her sister's disappearance continues to be a main focus of hers. Some spoilers, but you can easily read White as Snow as a lead in to the series.
Technically this is referred to as the third in the Áróra Investigation Series (Cold as Hell, Red as Blood, White as Snow). But what seems to be common with Nordic Noir in particular is the fact that the series does not focus exclusively on Áróra herself, but rather a whole cast of characters. Daníel and his fellow officer, Helena, get just as much page time as Áróra herself. Which is something that I really love because you not only get backstory on all of them, but the interactions between them become more rich and detailed.
In this particular outing, you also get Bisi, the survivor. A Nigerian cut off from her family and seeking refuge, she falls prey to the worst kind of people. Her story comes out in two parts: past (before the container) and present. And she plays her cards close, in part because she's reliant on the officers and immigration to keep her safe.
White as Snow is an excellent addition to what is a fantastic series! If you haven't discovered it yet, do dive in here. Or start from the beginning and read them in order (my recommendation!) for the full experience!
November 21, 2023
‘White as Snow’ is a a pacy thriller that is thick with tension, very topical and downright compelling! This is the third book in the Arora series and I found it to be the best one yet. This can definitely be read as a stand-alone novel but you are missing out on an award winning series from one of the best writers coming out of Iceland at the moment! She may even be my favourite so I might be biased. But seriously, this is a spectacular series that you don’t want to miss out on!
When an abandoned shipping container is found with five bodies, one barely alive, Daniel and Arora are pulled into a dark and upsetting investigation. Icelandic Police Detective Daniel was one of the first on the scene and is really struggling with the depravity of this case. Arora is looking into the background of a suspicious Russian man who is refusing to sign a pre-nuptial agreement before getting married - to Daniel’s ex-wife! Both cases are pulling Arora and Daniel into dangerous waters and it soon becomes clear that their cases might be linked!
I absolutely adore this series and Lilja has managed to create an outing that is packed full of tension, and kept my attention from the first to the last past! The standard of writing is superb and once again Quentin Bates has done an excellent translation from Icelandic into English. The plot of this book is very topical and it really does pack a punch whilst reading it. Various scenes will linger in my memory and the rawness of the character's anger radiated off the page! Human trafficking should make us angry and this is reflected in Daniel’s anger and inability to process what he has seen. This felt very authentic and really highlighted how much trauma it can give people who have to deal with the victims. The background into how our ‘fifth’ victim came to be in this situation was dealt with such empathy that I was crying at times. This book has affected me profoundly and moved me greatly.
I also cared a lot for Daniel’s ex-wife, Elin, and her situation. It tapped into the imbalance of power in relationships, gaslighting and mental abuse. Another character I love is Lady, who lives in Daniel’s garage - she brightens up the page whenever she sashays onto it! I would love to see more of her! She really did bring the light into this very dark book.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
When an abandoned shipping container is found with five bodies, one barely alive, Daniel and Arora are pulled into a dark and upsetting investigation. Icelandic Police Detective Daniel was one of the first on the scene and is really struggling with the depravity of this case. Arora is looking into the background of a suspicious Russian man who is refusing to sign a pre-nuptial agreement before getting married - to Daniel’s ex-wife! Both cases are pulling Arora and Daniel into dangerous waters and it soon becomes clear that their cases might be linked!
I absolutely adore this series and Lilja has managed to create an outing that is packed full of tension, and kept my attention from the first to the last past! The standard of writing is superb and once again Quentin Bates has done an excellent translation from Icelandic into English. The plot of this book is very topical and it really does pack a punch whilst reading it. Various scenes will linger in my memory and the rawness of the character's anger radiated off the page! Human trafficking should make us angry and this is reflected in Daniel’s anger and inability to process what he has seen. This felt very authentic and really highlighted how much trauma it can give people who have to deal with the victims. The background into how our ‘fifth’ victim came to be in this situation was dealt with such empathy that I was crying at times. This book has affected me profoundly and moved me greatly.
I also cared a lot for Daniel’s ex-wife, Elin, and her situation. It tapped into the imbalance of power in relationships, gaslighting and mental abuse. Another character I love is Lady, who lives in Daniel’s garage - she brightens up the page whenever she sashays onto it! I would love to see more of her! She really did bring the light into this very dark book.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
October 4, 2023
White as Snow is the latest book by Lilja Sigurdardóttir in her gripping Arora Investigation series, and it is an explosive addition to the series, which keeps getting better and better. There is a horrific opening to this book when an abandoned shipping container is discovered, with a sickening discovery inside. You really do sense the horrors inside the container as Lilja Sigurdardóttir describes the smell, the darkness and the enclosed space. Inside are the bodies of five women. It is clear that the women have been trafficked to Iceland and left to freeze to death. But what is even more shocking is that one of the victims is still alive, barely just clinging onto life.
The discovery really has an emotional effect on Detective Daníel. At first he is reluctant to take on the case. Lilja Sigurdardóttir really captures the horror that faced the women and you can see the fear in the woman who has survived. She is reluctant to help the police at first, and you can see why she is so fearful to help the authorities. She is terrified of being deported back to her home country, Nigeria. This is what increases the tension. You can really feel the need to keep her in a secure location, especially as the hospital where she is being treated can be accessed by anyone, and this is something Daníel doesn’t like. There is the constant threat that the people behind this horrific crime, could discover she’s still alive and come after her.
Arora meanwhile, is asked to help Daníel’s former wife, Elin, who has recently started seeing a Russian man, who Elin isn’t entirely sure is being honest with her. This was another intriguing strand to this book especially as Elin’s new partner definitely seems to be hiding something from her. Arora is also still searching for her missing sister, despite the fact that her mother wants her back home in England.
This is a very dark book, but there are some lighter moments, especially seeing the growing friendship between Daníel and his next door neighbour, Lady. I really liked these sections of the book and Lady’s character comes through so strongly, especially when she is looking after Daníel’s children.
I’m a big, big fan of this series and I am excited to see where Lilja Sigurdardóttir will take Arora next. I was hooked from the opening chapter and I did not want to put it down.
The discovery really has an emotional effect on Detective Daníel. At first he is reluctant to take on the case. Lilja Sigurdardóttir really captures the horror that faced the women and you can see the fear in the woman who has survived. She is reluctant to help the police at first, and you can see why she is so fearful to help the authorities. She is terrified of being deported back to her home country, Nigeria. This is what increases the tension. You can really feel the need to keep her in a secure location, especially as the hospital where she is being treated can be accessed by anyone, and this is something Daníel doesn’t like. There is the constant threat that the people behind this horrific crime, could discover she’s still alive and come after her.
Arora meanwhile, is asked to help Daníel’s former wife, Elin, who has recently started seeing a Russian man, who Elin isn’t entirely sure is being honest with her. This was another intriguing strand to this book especially as Elin’s new partner definitely seems to be hiding something from her. Arora is also still searching for her missing sister, despite the fact that her mother wants her back home in England.
This is a very dark book, but there are some lighter moments, especially seeing the growing friendship between Daníel and his next door neighbour, Lady. I really liked these sections of the book and Lady’s character comes through so strongly, especially when she is looking after Daníel’s children.
I’m a big, big fan of this series and I am excited to see where Lilja Sigurdardóttir will take Arora next. I was hooked from the opening chapter and I did not want to put it down.
March 3, 2024
Finished reading: March 2nd 2024
“Just how wrong is it possible to be about someone?”
March 3, 2024
White as Snow is the third book in the Áróra Investigation series and it is one that just keeps getting better and better. Daníel and Áróra appear to be working on two very different investigations however it is not long before it becomes evident that there may be some connections between the two.
Daníel finds himself with the horrific task of investigating human trafficking when a container with 5 women is found abandoned. Initially it is believed all of the victims are dead but when one is found alive but in a bad condition the race is on to find those behind it whilst protecting their only witness. Áróra has been contacted by Daníel’s ex wife Elín who is having a few niggling doubts about her partner and just wants to make sure that everything is above board before she makes any commitments to him and although she initially uncovers some things about his past even she is not prepared for what later develops.
This is quite a gritty and dark topic and Lilja Sigurðardóttir brings it to life convincingly as we see into the life of the surviving victim and what led her to becoming trapped in the container. It is these chapters that are dotted throughout the book that really bring home the desperate situations that people find themselves in where this may seem like their only option. What is clear from the start is that this is not going to be an easy investigation and at times it is not just the victim who has doubts about who they can trust. The connection between the victim and one of the investigators is both touching and believable as they work together to identify the other girls and those behind their fate.
With so much going on you can feel the tension and urgency as they race to solve the case. Despite this there are still some lighter moments to be found in the interactions between Daníel and his neighbour Lady and it is also interesting to see how the relationship between Daníel and Áróra develops even when it looks like things may never get on an even footing and I look forward to seeing what direction it goes in next.
Daníel finds himself with the horrific task of investigating human trafficking when a container with 5 women is found abandoned. Initially it is believed all of the victims are dead but when one is found alive but in a bad condition the race is on to find those behind it whilst protecting their only witness. Áróra has been contacted by Daníel’s ex wife Elín who is having a few niggling doubts about her partner and just wants to make sure that everything is above board before she makes any commitments to him and although she initially uncovers some things about his past even she is not prepared for what later develops.
This is quite a gritty and dark topic and Lilja Sigurðardóttir brings it to life convincingly as we see into the life of the surviving victim and what led her to becoming trapped in the container. It is these chapters that are dotted throughout the book that really bring home the desperate situations that people find themselves in where this may seem like their only option. What is clear from the start is that this is not going to be an easy investigation and at times it is not just the victim who has doubts about who they can trust. The connection between the victim and one of the investigators is both touching and believable as they work together to identify the other girls and those behind their fate.
With so much going on you can feel the tension and urgency as they race to solve the case. Despite this there are still some lighter moments to be found in the interactions between Daníel and his neighbour Lady and it is also interesting to see how the relationship between Daníel and Áróra develops even when it looks like things may never get on an even footing and I look forward to seeing what direction it goes in next.
January 5, 2024
Here is my review for White As Snow by Lilja Sigurdardottir
I found I got into this book straight away and truly enjoyed reading it. The characters were a joy to get to know and it didn’t matter that it was book three in the series and that if I hadn't read the other two in the series, which I haven’t, I could pick it up as a standalone. The story is a very complex, twisty and turny one which involves Arora, a private investigator and Daniel, a CID police officer. Arora is still chasing her missing sister which Daniel is looking into and then there is the shipping container that is found one winter morning which turns out to be the worst crime he has ever investigated…
I just loved reading this complex case that mixed with Arora’s case which made for a terrific story and one that is so chilling but very true to life. Lilja is a fabulous writer and now I want to read the rest of the series!
Blurb :
On a snowy winter morning, an abandoned shipping container is discovered near Reykjavík. Inside are the bodies of five young women – one of them barely alive.
As Icelandic Police detective Daníel struggles to investigate the most brutal crime of his career, Áróra looks into the background of a suspicious man, who turns out to be engaged to Daníel's former wife, and the connections don't stop there…
Daníel and Áróra's cases pit them both against ruthless criminals with horrifying agendas, while Áróra persists with her search for her missing sister, Ísafold, whose devastating disappearance continues to haunt her.
As the temperature drops and the 24-hour darkness and freezing snow hamper their efforts, their investigations become increasingly dangerous … for everyone.
Atmospheric, twisty and breathtakingly tense, White as Snow is the third instalment in the riveting, award-winning An Áróra Investigation series, as crimes committed far beyond Iceland's shores come home…
I found I got into this book straight away and truly enjoyed reading it. The characters were a joy to get to know and it didn’t matter that it was book three in the series and that if I hadn't read the other two in the series, which I haven’t, I could pick it up as a standalone. The story is a very complex, twisty and turny one which involves Arora, a private investigator and Daniel, a CID police officer. Arora is still chasing her missing sister which Daniel is looking into and then there is the shipping container that is found one winter morning which turns out to be the worst crime he has ever investigated…
I just loved reading this complex case that mixed with Arora’s case which made for a terrific story and one that is so chilling but very true to life. Lilja is a fabulous writer and now I want to read the rest of the series!
Blurb :
On a snowy winter morning, an abandoned shipping container is discovered near Reykjavík. Inside are the bodies of five young women – one of them barely alive.
As Icelandic Police detective Daníel struggles to investigate the most brutal crime of his career, Áróra looks into the background of a suspicious man, who turns out to be engaged to Daníel's former wife, and the connections don't stop there…
Daníel and Áróra's cases pit them both against ruthless criminals with horrifying agendas, while Áróra persists with her search for her missing sister, Ísafold, whose devastating disappearance continues to haunt her.
As the temperature drops and the 24-hour darkness and freezing snow hamper their efforts, their investigations become increasingly dangerous … for everyone.
Atmospheric, twisty and breathtakingly tense, White as Snow is the third instalment in the riveting, award-winning An Áróra Investigation series, as crimes committed far beyond Iceland's shores come home…
July 8, 2025
🌨 Snövit jord
av Lilja Sigurðardóttir
✨✨✨✨✨ (5 av 5 stjärnor)
“Den som överlever glömmer inte. Det är just därför hon måste berätta.”
Lilja Sigurðardóttir rundar av sin Áróra-trilogi med något så sällsynt som en mörk historia med hopp i kanterna. ❄️ Snövit jord är en lågmält kraftfull berättelse som biter sig fast, lika mycket på grund av själva brottet som på grund av människorna runt det.
🧊 Vad som gör den här boken fantastisk:
– Det parallella berättandet, där vi följer både den överlevande kvinnan inifrån containerns klaustrofobiska mörker och de som försöker förstå hur hon hamnade där, skapar en tät, andlöst fängslande struktur.
– Det personliga planet med Daniel och Áróra får mer liv än någonsin, särskilt när Sergej visar sig ha djupare band till historien än man först anar.
“Snö knarrade under hennes fötter. En vanlig ljudbild. Men den betydde att hon levde.”
📘 Analys:
Det blir svårt att hålla isär namnen ibland. De isländska, de ryska, de fornnordiska – ibland känns det som att man lyssnar på en kombination av Vinterstudion och Sjöwall & Wahlöö goes Reykjavik. 😅 Men det är ändå ett charmigt problem i en annars starkt skriven berättelse.
🌱 Bisi!
Att Bisi, får ett ordentligt avslut gjorde mer för mitt hjärta än alla serier med “emotional closure” någonsin. En liten detalj, men ack så viktig. 💛
🎯 Helhetsintryck:
Snövit jord är mer än en deckare. Det är ett porträtt av sårbarhet, mod, och vad som händer när snön smälter och sanningen sipprar fram. Lilja vet exakt hur hon ska balansera brott och känsloliv utan att tappa nerven och utan att skippa den feministiska klarsynen. Det är rakt, vasst, och samtidigt stilla vackert.
“Man överlever inte bara det som är fysiskt. Det finns andra kamper som aldrig syns.”
📦 Sammanfattning:
En perfekt avslutning på en serie som både har ett starkt kriminaldriv och en själslig tyngd. Lika kall som jorden i titeln – men med hjärtslag i varje snöflinga.
📚 Läs den. Känn den. Stanna kvar i den en stund innan du går vidare.
av Lilja Sigurðardóttir
✨✨✨✨✨ (5 av 5 stjärnor)
“Den som överlever glömmer inte. Det är just därför hon måste berätta.”
Lilja Sigurðardóttir rundar av sin Áróra-trilogi med något så sällsynt som en mörk historia med hopp i kanterna. ❄️ Snövit jord är en lågmält kraftfull berättelse som biter sig fast, lika mycket på grund av själva brottet som på grund av människorna runt det.
🧊 Vad som gör den här boken fantastisk:
– Det parallella berättandet, där vi följer både den överlevande kvinnan inifrån containerns klaustrofobiska mörker och de som försöker förstå hur hon hamnade där, skapar en tät, andlöst fängslande struktur.
– Det personliga planet med Daniel och Áróra får mer liv än någonsin, särskilt när Sergej visar sig ha djupare band till historien än man först anar.
“Snö knarrade under hennes fötter. En vanlig ljudbild. Men den betydde att hon levde.”
📘 Analys:
Det blir svårt att hålla isär namnen ibland. De isländska, de ryska, de fornnordiska – ibland känns det som att man lyssnar på en kombination av Vinterstudion och Sjöwall & Wahlöö goes Reykjavik. 😅 Men det är ändå ett charmigt problem i en annars starkt skriven berättelse.
🌱 Bisi!
Att Bisi, får ett ordentligt avslut gjorde mer för mitt hjärta än alla serier med “emotional closure” någonsin. En liten detalj, men ack så viktig. 💛
🎯 Helhetsintryck:
Snövit jord är mer än en deckare. Det är ett porträtt av sårbarhet, mod, och vad som händer när snön smälter och sanningen sipprar fram. Lilja vet exakt hur hon ska balansera brott och känsloliv utan att tappa nerven och utan att skippa den feministiska klarsynen. Det är rakt, vasst, och samtidigt stilla vackert.
“Man överlever inte bara det som är fysiskt. Det finns andra kamper som aldrig syns.”
📦 Sammanfattning:
En perfekt avslutning på en serie som både har ett starkt kriminaldriv och en själslig tyngd. Lika kall som jorden i titeln – men med hjärtslag i varje snöflinga.
📚 Läs den. Känn den. Stanna kvar i den en stund innan du går vidare.
May 16, 2025
أبيض كالتلج
سلسلة تحقيقات أرورا ل ليليا سيجورادوتير ترجمة هند حسني
إيلين امرأة في الخمسين ستتزوج من شاب روسي في الثلاثين، تحزن حينما يبتعد عنها ليتحدث إلى والدته هاتفيًا بالروسية فهي لا تعلم إلا كلمات بسيطة علمها إياها سيرجي ولكنه هذه المرة قال كلمات تعرفها واسم غير اسم والدته.. فمن هي صوفيا التي يحادثها ويقول لها يا حبيبتي..
عثر شخص يتريض صباحًا على حاوية واتصل بإدارة البيئة في المدينة، لمعرفة ما تفعله حاوية شحن يبلغ طولها عشرين قدمًا في هذا المكان الطبيعي المحمي جيدًا..
وبذهاب رجل من مجلس المدينة ليجد هو ورجلين من الشرطة كومة من للجثث، أربع من النساء، ومعهن واحدة على قيد الحياة ربما استمدت الدفء من جثث الأخريات كما يقول الكاتب، كن من أصول أجنبية ربما كانوا بحاجة لتأشيرة دخول أيسلندا أو ربما هي قضية إتجار بالبشر..
يذهب دانييل وزميلته هيلينا وفريق الطب الشرعي للتحقيق في هذا الأمر الرهيب..
ومن هول ما رأى كاد أن يتنحى عن هذه القضية لولا رفض المفوضة..
وها هي أورورا لازالت تطلق الدرونز هنا وهناك بحثًا عن جثة شقيقتها.. ولا زالت تعمل على تعقب الأموال الخفية فتلجأ إليها إيلين لمعرفة كل ما يخص سيرجي وتبلغها أنها ابنة عم والدها وزوجة دانييال السابقة وأنه هو من أرشدها إليها، فهل يكون هذا الأمر سببًا في عودة المياه بين أورورا ودانييل؟
يبدأ دانييل وهيلينا في التحقيق مع بيسي بعد انقاذها لمعرفة بأي لغة تتحدث وما الذي أدى بها إلى هذا الحال هي والنساء القتيلات وهل الأمر كله يعود إلى عصابات جريمة منظمة كما هو متوقع؟ وما الذي شكت فيه أورورا وبثت شكوكهل لدانييل ليبدأ سلسلة من التحقيقات لحل هذه القضية؟!
كيف وصل الحال ببيسي إلى تلك الحاوية وهي الإفريقية التي كانت في باريس عائدة إلى أسرتها في لاجوس..
بالرواية تعبيرات جميلة تمكنت المترجمة من صياغتها بأسلوب رائع ،فها هي تقول مثلُا:
"بدا كل عصب في جسدها مشدودًا كوتر الكمان. كانت متأكدة من أنها إذا وضعت ميكروفونًا على بشرتها، فستسمع صوت تلك الأعصاب المشدودة؛ كورال مؤلم من القلق، يكاد يكون واضحًا بما يكفي لاستدعاء "سيرجي" إلى المنزل لتهدئتها..
#نو_ها
سلسلة تحقيقات أرورا ل ليليا سيجورادوتير ترجمة هند حسني
إيلين امرأة في الخمسين ستتزوج من شاب روسي في الثلاثين، تحزن حينما يبتعد عنها ليتحدث إلى والدته هاتفيًا بالروسية فهي لا تعلم إلا كلمات بسيطة علمها إياها سيرجي ولكنه هذه المرة قال كلمات تعرفها واسم غير اسم والدته.. فمن هي صوفيا التي يحادثها ويقول لها يا حبيبتي..
عثر شخص يتريض صباحًا على حاوية واتصل بإدارة البيئة في المدينة، لمعرفة ما تفعله حاوية شحن يبلغ طولها عشرين قدمًا في هذا المكان الطبيعي المحمي جيدًا..
وبذهاب رجل من مجلس المدينة ليجد هو ورجلين من الشرطة كومة من للجثث، أربع من النساء، ومعهن واحدة على قيد الحياة ربما استمدت الدفء من جثث الأخريات كما يقول الكاتب، كن من أصول أجنبية ربما كانوا بحاجة لتأشيرة دخول أيسلندا أو ربما هي قضية إتجار بالبشر..
يذهب دانييل وزميلته هيلينا وفريق الطب الشرعي للتحقيق في هذا الأمر الرهيب..
ومن هول ما رأى كاد أن يتنحى عن هذه القضية لولا رفض المفوضة..
وها هي أورورا لازالت تطلق الدرونز هنا وهناك بحثًا عن جثة شقيقتها.. ولا زالت تعمل على تعقب الأموال الخفية فتلجأ إليها إيلين لمعرفة كل ما يخص سيرجي وتبلغها أنها ابنة عم والدها وزوجة دانييال السابقة وأنه هو من أرشدها إليها، فهل يكون هذا الأمر سببًا في عودة المياه بين أورورا ودانييل؟
يبدأ دانييل وهيلينا في التحقيق مع بيسي بعد انقاذها لمعرفة بأي لغة تتحدث وما الذي أدى بها إلى هذا الحال هي والنساء القتيلات وهل الأمر كله يعود إلى عصابات جريمة منظمة كما هو متوقع؟ وما الذي شكت فيه أورورا وبثت شكوكهل لدانييل ليبدأ سلسلة من التحقيقات لحل هذه القضية؟!
كيف وصل الحال ببيسي إلى تلك الحاوية وهي الإفريقية التي كانت في باريس عائدة إلى أسرتها في لاجوس..
بالرواية تعبيرات جميلة تمكنت المترجمة من صياغتها بأسلوب رائع ،فها هي تقول مثلُا:
"بدا كل عصب في جسدها مشدودًا كوتر الكمان. كانت متأكدة من أنها إذا وضعت ميكروفونًا على بشرتها، فستسمع صوت تلك الأعصاب المشدودة؛ كورال مؤلم من القلق، يكاد يكون واضحًا بما يكفي لاستدعاء "سيرجي" إلى المنزل لتهدئتها..
#نو_ها
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