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Varg Veum #18
Big Sister
Varg Veum receives a surprise visit in his office. A woman introduces herself as his half-sister, and she has a job for him. Her god-daughter, a 19-year-old trainee nurse from Haugesund, moved from her apartment in Bergen two weeks ago. Since then no one has heard anything from her. She didn't leave an address. She doesn't answer her phone. And the police refuse to take her case seriously. Veum's investigation uncovers a series of carefully covered-up crimes and pent-up hatreds, and the trail leads to a gang of extreme bikers on the hunt for a group of people whose dark deeds are hidden by the anonymity of the Internet. And then things get personal.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2016
108 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
About the author
Gunnar Staalesen
135 books280 followersGunnar Staalesen is a Norwegian writer. Staalesen has a cand.philol degree from Universitetet i Bergen and he has worked at Den Nationale Scene, the main theater in Bergen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
January 12, 2024
A solid 4 stars.
Thanks to Trafalgar Square Publishing for sending me this eARC through NetGalley. I visited Bergen, Norway in 2009 and our guide recommended this series by Staalsen. I purchased the only book available in English The Writing on the Wall and enjoyed it. This book has Varg Veum taking a case from a half sister that he meets for the first time. She asks him to search for her missing goddaughter. His search leads him into an unsolved rape from many years before. There were several unexpected plot twists. I read this book in 3 days.
One quote:
Rain. "In Bergen, November is the month of the grey monk. The snow comes later. The sun makes a guest appearance or two. Most days are grey and more often than not it rains. Not summer's short bursts; not October's long downpours, which flood the streets and cellars because the relevant authorities haven't cleared the autumn leaves this year, either; nor spring's refreshing rain, which washes away the remnants of winter and makes my town clean again. In November, rain is the personification of gloom...."
Thanks to Trafalgar Square Publishing for sending me this eARC through NetGalley. I visited Bergen, Norway in 2009 and our guide recommended this series by Staalsen. I purchased the only book available in English The Writing on the Wall and enjoyed it. This book has Varg Veum taking a case from a half sister that he meets for the first time. She asks him to search for her missing goddaughter. His search leads him into an unsolved rape from many years before. There were several unexpected plot twists. I read this book in 3 days.
One quote:
Rain. "In Bergen, November is the month of the grey monk. The snow comes later. The sun makes a guest appearance or two. Most days are grey and more often than not it rains. Not summer's short bursts; not October's long downpours, which flood the streets and cellars because the relevant authorities haven't cleared the autumn leaves this year, either; nor spring's refreshing rain, which washes away the remnants of winter and makes my town clean again. In November, rain is the personification of gloom...."
June 11, 2018
Bergen based investigator Varg Veum is at a stage in his life where nothing much surprises him. So when a new client introduces herself as his half sister, it’s almost enough to make a guy reach for the Aquavit.
After tracking him down, Norma Bakkevik wasted no time with small talk. She wants him to find her teenage god-daughter, Emma Haglund. She left a troubled home life & moved to Bergen several weeks ago but no one has heard from her since. Varg has many questions. About Emma….and about Norma & their mother.
His search for Emma requires dogged determination. Her circle is small & it’s not long before his questions lead to her estranged (and piece of….work) father & his new family. There’s a reason he left Emma & her mother all those years ago & it’s not very pleasant. Varg has to wonder if a decades old crime has ties to Emma’s disappearance.
What starts as a simple missing persons case soon evolves into so much more. Varg’s digging opens old wounds & brings unwanted attention from those who’d prefer he left things alone. But it’s information about his own past & a sudden shocking loss that leave Varg reeling.
This is an engrossing & intricate read that works on a couple of different levels. You have his current case which initially moves slowly as information & characters are presented. At the halfway mark, the pace picks up considerably as the investigation takes a dangerous turn. There are some surprising reveals ahead as pieces fall into place although the author saves the best twist for the final chapter.
But there is a deeper theme that runs through every thread of the story. Family…not just the one you’re born into but the one you create. Norma introduces Varg to a side of his family he never knew & it forces him to reexamine his parents in a new light. Like Emma, he has to decide how much he’ll allow the past to intrude on the present.
One of the great things about a long running series is the relationship you develop with the MC. They age with you & every time I pick up one of these, I feel like I’m catching up with an old friend. Varg is in his 60’s now & a little worn around the edges. But on a personal level, he’s in a better place. He’s less impulsive & more inclined to use brains over brawn to solve his cases. He’s even attempting a bit of a fitness regime (more stairs, less Aquavit). He’s always been the thinking man’s detective & the personal ramifications from this case ensure he’ll have plenty to ponder as he waits for the next client to walk through his door.
After tracking him down, Norma Bakkevik wasted no time with small talk. She wants him to find her teenage god-daughter, Emma Haglund. She left a troubled home life & moved to Bergen several weeks ago but no one has heard from her since. Varg has many questions. About Emma….and about Norma & their mother.
His search for Emma requires dogged determination. Her circle is small & it’s not long before his questions lead to her estranged (and piece of….work) father & his new family. There’s a reason he left Emma & her mother all those years ago & it’s not very pleasant. Varg has to wonder if a decades old crime has ties to Emma’s disappearance.
What starts as a simple missing persons case soon evolves into so much more. Varg’s digging opens old wounds & brings unwanted attention from those who’d prefer he left things alone. But it’s information about his own past & a sudden shocking loss that leave Varg reeling.
This is an engrossing & intricate read that works on a couple of different levels. You have his current case which initially moves slowly as information & characters are presented. At the halfway mark, the pace picks up considerably as the investigation takes a dangerous turn. There are some surprising reveals ahead as pieces fall into place although the author saves the best twist for the final chapter.
But there is a deeper theme that runs through every thread of the story. Family…not just the one you’re born into but the one you create. Norma introduces Varg to a side of his family he never knew & it forces him to reexamine his parents in a new light. Like Emma, he has to decide how much he’ll allow the past to intrude on the present.
One of the great things about a long running series is the relationship you develop with the MC. They age with you & every time I pick up one of these, I feel like I’m catching up with an old friend. Varg is in his 60’s now & a little worn around the edges. But on a personal level, he’s in a better place. He’s less impulsive & more inclined to use brains over brawn to solve his cases. He’s even attempting a bit of a fitness regime (more stairs, less Aquavit). He’s always been the thinking man’s detective & the personal ramifications from this case ensure he’ll have plenty to ponder as he waits for the next client to walk through his door.
June 4, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Varg Veum is a private investigator. One afternoon he is visited by a woman, Norma, who explains to him that she is his half-sister who was given up for adoption before he was born. She is there because she is looking for her God-Daughter, Emma, and needs Varg’s services. She explains that the young woman was studying to be a nurse and moved out of her bedsit two weeks ago and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.
Varg thinks that it will most likely be an easy case, but his investigations take him into a sinister world. There is also the fact that police just believe she has run-off with a boyfriend, so refuse to help. Can Varg find Emma, dead or alive?
Big sister is set in Norway and at the front of the book that is a map of the area to help you keep track of Varg’s investigations. The book reads like an old TV private investigation series. Although there are no real explosive, thrilling moments, the book is an interesting read and fully enjoyable one too. I loved watching Varg work and how he pieces the case together to come to a conclusion I didn’t see coming.
He is a lovely character. He has some flaws and that’s what makes him all the more realistic. As the book progressed I found myself getting more and more drawn into how Varg works. He’s certainly not afraid to push people out of their comfort-zones to get the information he needs. You also get a real feel for all the other characters in the book too. I found myself hoping that Emma would be found alive and also I wanted to discover the truth about why she had disappeared without a trace.
Once I had finished reading the book I realised that this is just one in a huge series of books about Varg Veum. There have even been film adaptations of his earlier books too. I can confirm that this book works perfectly well as a stand-alone novel and you won’t have any trouble following the story.
This is an easy paced book. The writing is just superb and the plot was credible, keeping me glued to the pages right the way through. I am definitely going to have to read more Varg Veum novels after this one.
Varg Veum is a private investigator. One afternoon he is visited by a woman, Norma, who explains to him that she is his half-sister who was given up for adoption before he was born. She is there because she is looking for her God-Daughter, Emma, and needs Varg’s services. She explains that the young woman was studying to be a nurse and moved out of her bedsit two weeks ago and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.
Varg thinks that it will most likely be an easy case, but his investigations take him into a sinister world. There is also the fact that police just believe she has run-off with a boyfriend, so refuse to help. Can Varg find Emma, dead or alive?
Big sister is set in Norway and at the front of the book that is a map of the area to help you keep track of Varg’s investigations. The book reads like an old TV private investigation series. Although there are no real explosive, thrilling moments, the book is an interesting read and fully enjoyable one too. I loved watching Varg work and how he pieces the case together to come to a conclusion I didn’t see coming.
He is a lovely character. He has some flaws and that’s what makes him all the more realistic. As the book progressed I found myself getting more and more drawn into how Varg works. He’s certainly not afraid to push people out of their comfort-zones to get the information he needs. You also get a real feel for all the other characters in the book too. I found myself hoping that Emma would be found alive and also I wanted to discover the truth about why she had disappeared without a trace.
Once I had finished reading the book I realised that this is just one in a huge series of books about Varg Veum. There have even been film adaptations of his earlier books too. I can confirm that this book works perfectly well as a stand-alone novel and you won’t have any trouble following the story.
This is an easy paced book. The writing is just superb and the plot was credible, keeping me glued to the pages right the way through. I am definitely going to have to read more Varg Veum novels after this one.
October 19, 2018
This title was read in paperback format. It is not listed here except as CD or ebook versions.
It was my serendipity read for the month of October. Sometimes they are a gem find, sometimes they are not. This one was not despite my being a fairly strong fan of Nordic who-dun-its of every genre tinge- be they milder or gritty dark.
This one was far, far overlong to the point of tedious. And the P.I. who is Varg is 61 years old. The big sister is 76 years old. So that tells you a little about the passion or energy intensity levels right there. And I'm over 70, so I'm not going to lie to you and I can be ageist real. These people were cold to the point of frozen. And it wasn't just the weather either that made you shiver.
Everyone is distressed. Everyone. And more than half are depressed enough to be clinically verifiable. Not an easy story to relate when you have a couple dozen characters in the mix under such "affect" and history of non-family ties. And is this any more difficult or stark than the average worst Nordic? Well, then try naming them all (characters of every ilk) except for 5 or 6 (THANK GOD for Robert) with a name (first AND last) that begins with a V. Do editors have any "say" anymore about such confusing matters? I doubt it.
This will be the last time for Staalesen. Too dire, too many body counts to care why (let alone how), too much of snarky conversations for/ with people who do not like people enough to give more than 4 or 5 word sentence answers. Just exactly as a childhood rhyme of memory nuance for me- "Nobody loves me, everybody hates me. I think I'll go out and eat worms."
The only character that came across as an individual to me was the woman who had been institutionalized her entire life since 15/16 years old and who was about 40 when he tried to interview her. She must have realized that Norway was NOT an utopia for her quite early. Suicide seems like an art form in these dark days and liquor nights tales of despair.
There were a few occasions when I believe the translation wasn't apt. Meanings were too abrupt for the situation or onus context.
Why did I finish it? Because I couldn't believe how the conversations were progressing to points shorter and shorter despite the length of the page count. I would have emigrated to Berlin too- that character was the most wise.
It was my serendipity read for the month of October. Sometimes they are a gem find, sometimes they are not. This one was not despite my being a fairly strong fan of Nordic who-dun-its of every genre tinge- be they milder or gritty dark.
This one was far, far overlong to the point of tedious. And the P.I. who is Varg is 61 years old. The big sister is 76 years old. So that tells you a little about the passion or energy intensity levels right there. And I'm over 70, so I'm not going to lie to you and I can be ageist real. These people were cold to the point of frozen. And it wasn't just the weather either that made you shiver.
Everyone is distressed. Everyone. And more than half are depressed enough to be clinically verifiable. Not an easy story to relate when you have a couple dozen characters in the mix under such "affect" and history of non-family ties. And is this any more difficult or stark than the average worst Nordic? Well, then try naming them all (characters of every ilk) except for 5 or 6 (THANK GOD for Robert) with a name (first AND last) that begins with a V. Do editors have any "say" anymore about such confusing matters? I doubt it.
This will be the last time for Staalesen. Too dire, too many body counts to care why (let alone how), too much of snarky conversations for/ with people who do not like people enough to give more than 4 or 5 word sentence answers. Just exactly as a childhood rhyme of memory nuance for me- "Nobody loves me, everybody hates me. I think I'll go out and eat worms."
The only character that came across as an individual to me was the woman who had been institutionalized her entire life since 15/16 years old and who was about 40 when he tried to interview her. She must have realized that Norway was NOT an utopia for her quite early. Suicide seems like an art form in these dark days and liquor nights tales of despair.
There were a few occasions when I believe the translation wasn't apt. Meanings were too abrupt for the situation or onus context.
Why did I finish it? Because I couldn't believe how the conversations were progressing to points shorter and shorter despite the length of the page count. I would have emigrated to Berlin too- that character was the most wise.
May 6, 2018
Even though this is part of a series, Big Sister works very well as a stand alone. I do advise reading the others also due to them being really great reads and wouldn't want anyone to miss out.
It was really good to meet up with Varg again. I was actually quite happy when his half sister turns up as thought it might bring something to his solitary lifestyle. Obviously being a crime book, someone just turning up out of the blue like that is going to bring a certain amount of mystery along with them and this comes in the form of her missing god daughter.
Varg obviously cant turn down the case and have to admit I was very intrigued to see why a young adult would suddenly just disappear. Varg certainly leaves no stone unturned and as he delves deeper he certainly turns up some surprises.
Big Sister is packed full of mystery and suspense. Whilst not a fast paced action thriller, the author commands your attention and has you hooked from the first page and keeps you there until the last. The series is certainly crying out to me made in to one for the television screen. Another intriguing and entertaining read.
My thanks to Anne Cater and Orenda Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
It was really good to meet up with Varg again. I was actually quite happy when his half sister turns up as thought it might bring something to his solitary lifestyle. Obviously being a crime book, someone just turning up out of the blue like that is going to bring a certain amount of mystery along with them and this comes in the form of her missing god daughter.
Varg obviously cant turn down the case and have to admit I was very intrigued to see why a young adult would suddenly just disappear. Varg certainly leaves no stone unturned and as he delves deeper he certainly turns up some surprises.
Big Sister is packed full of mystery and suspense. Whilst not a fast paced action thriller, the author commands your attention and has you hooked from the first page and keeps you there until the last. The series is certainly crying out to me made in to one for the television screen. Another intriguing and entertaining read.
My thanks to Anne Cater and Orenda Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
June 8, 2018
Varg Veum is back and hoo boy, what a return it is!
Varg Veum is surprised when a half-sister he’s never met shows up in his office. She needs his help in finding her goddaughter, Emma, who disappeared without a trace. Since Emma is nineteen and took personal belongings with her, the police don’t take her case seriously and aren’t looking for her. Varg Veum promises to investigate but he has no idea what he’s getting himself in to.
The investigation leads him to uncover a horrific crime, while also making the acquaintance of a gang of bikers. Now, I watched Sons of Anarchy. I know all about these types of bikers, the things they get up to and none of it is good. Soon things get personal and Varg may have just bitten off more than he can chew.
There are various threads to sink your teeth into in Big Sister and Varg Veum is kept incredibly busy. Not only is there his investigation into the missing teenager, but he might find himself inclined to dig a little deeper into his own family.
Once again, Gunnar Staalesen delivers with his crisp writing and a scenario that is current and feels incredibly realistic. There’s a delicious depth to his characters and it feels as if you’re there with them in the moment, as you become invested in them and their emotions. This is only the second book I’ve read by Staalesen but I already expect nothing less than an intricately plotted story. There are a few magnificent twists I didn’t see coming at all and it kept me utterly hooked from start to finish.
When I reviewed Wolves in the Dark last year, I mentioned I felt a little lost as I hadn’t read any of the previous books in this long-running series but I’m happy to say that this time around I had no problems whatsoever getting behind Varg Veum and I feel Big Sister reads perfectly well as a stand-alone. It is intriguing, full of suspense and another fantastic example of Scandi-Noir at its best!
Finally, shout-out to Don Bartlett for another seamless translation!
Varg Veum is surprised when a half-sister he’s never met shows up in his office. She needs his help in finding her goddaughter, Emma, who disappeared without a trace. Since Emma is nineteen and took personal belongings with her, the police don’t take her case seriously and aren’t looking for her. Varg Veum promises to investigate but he has no idea what he’s getting himself in to.
The investigation leads him to uncover a horrific crime, while also making the acquaintance of a gang of bikers. Now, I watched Sons of Anarchy. I know all about these types of bikers, the things they get up to and none of it is good. Soon things get personal and Varg may have just bitten off more than he can chew.
There are various threads to sink your teeth into in Big Sister and Varg Veum is kept incredibly busy. Not only is there his investigation into the missing teenager, but he might find himself inclined to dig a little deeper into his own family.
Once again, Gunnar Staalesen delivers with his crisp writing and a scenario that is current and feels incredibly realistic. There’s a delicious depth to his characters and it feels as if you’re there with them in the moment, as you become invested in them and their emotions. This is only the second book I’ve read by Staalesen but I already expect nothing less than an intricately plotted story. There are a few magnificent twists I didn’t see coming at all and it kept me utterly hooked from start to finish.
When I reviewed Wolves in the Dark last year, I mentioned I felt a little lost as I hadn’t read any of the previous books in this long-running series but I’m happy to say that this time around I had no problems whatsoever getting behind Varg Veum and I feel Big Sister reads perfectly well as a stand-alone. It is intriguing, full of suspense and another fantastic example of Scandi-Noir at its best!
Finally, shout-out to Don Bartlett for another seamless translation!
June 12, 2018
Having read and enjoyed the previous translated Varg Veum books, I was thrilled to be able to read Big Sister recently. Gunnar Staalesen is a masterful storyteller and I was eager to get reading.
In Big Sister, Veum finds out that he has a half-sister, Norma. The only reason he finds this out is because Norma turns up at his office needing his help in finding her missing goddaughter Emma. Emma has vanished from Bergen, and Norma figured this was as good a reason as any to track down her half-brother.
The police don’t seem to be taking the disappearance seriously, so Norma and Veum undertake their own investigation. This leads them into danger, when what seems to be a wide investigative net becomes quite smaller and they find themselves wondering what they have stumbled into.
I don’t want to go into the plot any more than that because Gunnar Staalesen does such a wonderful job of weaving the threads together that I don’t want to spoil it by picking them apart. I really enjoy reading about Varg Veum as a character. Something about him makes him seem really genteel, and relatable. This is what I love about these books, the comfort in picking up the book and feeling like you are catching up with an old friend. Staalesen’s lyrical prose makes it an engaging and enthralling read, and I look forward to reading the next in the series.
Big Sister is an excellent example of Nordic noir. Hints of menace coupled with a chilling climate make this the perfect locational mystery. There is also an emotional element attached to these books, and that is extremely prevalent in Big Sister.
Highly recommended!
In Big Sister, Veum finds out that he has a half-sister, Norma. The only reason he finds this out is because Norma turns up at his office needing his help in finding her missing goddaughter Emma. Emma has vanished from Bergen, and Norma figured this was as good a reason as any to track down her half-brother.
The police don’t seem to be taking the disappearance seriously, so Norma and Veum undertake their own investigation. This leads them into danger, when what seems to be a wide investigative net becomes quite smaller and they find themselves wondering what they have stumbled into.
I don’t want to go into the plot any more than that because Gunnar Staalesen does such a wonderful job of weaving the threads together that I don’t want to spoil it by picking them apart. I really enjoy reading about Varg Veum as a character. Something about him makes him seem really genteel, and relatable. This is what I love about these books, the comfort in picking up the book and feeling like you are catching up with an old friend. Staalesen’s lyrical prose makes it an engaging and enthralling read, and I look forward to reading the next in the series.
Big Sister is an excellent example of Nordic noir. Hints of menace coupled with a chilling climate make this the perfect locational mystery. There is also an emotional element attached to these books, and that is extremely prevalent in Big Sister.
Highly recommended!
September 12, 2019
Private Investigator Varg Veum is the bestselling series written by award winning Norwegian author Gunnar Staalesen and ‘Big Sister’ is the 20th book in this compelling and well written crime series.
When Varg receives a surprise visit in his office, a woman who introduces herself as his half-sister, he is shocked that she has a job for him. Her god-daughter, a 19-year-old trainee nurse from Haugesund, moved from her apartment in Bergen two weeks ago and since then, no one has heard anything from her. She didn't leave an address and she isn’t answering her phone. When the police refuse to take the girl’s case seriously, Veum’s investigation uncovers a series of carefully covered-up crimes and pent-up hatreds. I particularly liked how the trail lead to a gang of extreme bikers and how things turned extremely personal, as he no longer had to deal with the missing girl but an incident that caused huge emotional repercussions in his private life.
The story starts off at a slower pace while we are privy to Varg learning about his half sister and later on about his parentage. The second half of the book rockets along and made for compelling reading. What I like about how the author narrates Varg’s life is that although the character is flawed he is totally endearing and you can’t help but empathise with the issues he has had and still has to deal with in his personal life.
This series really isn’t to be missed, I’ve read quite a few now and loved everyone. Translated excellently once again by Don Bartlett, nothing is lost in translation and I highly recommend this author and his books, if you enjoy intelligent and well plotted crime mysteries like me.
4 stars
When Varg receives a surprise visit in his office, a woman who introduces herself as his half-sister, he is shocked that she has a job for him. Her god-daughter, a 19-year-old trainee nurse from Haugesund, moved from her apartment in Bergen two weeks ago and since then, no one has heard anything from her. She didn't leave an address and she isn’t answering her phone. When the police refuse to take the girl’s case seriously, Veum’s investigation uncovers a series of carefully covered-up crimes and pent-up hatreds. I particularly liked how the trail lead to a gang of extreme bikers and how things turned extremely personal, as he no longer had to deal with the missing girl but an incident that caused huge emotional repercussions in his private life.
The story starts off at a slower pace while we are privy to Varg learning about his half sister and later on about his parentage. The second half of the book rockets along and made for compelling reading. What I like about how the author narrates Varg’s life is that although the character is flawed he is totally endearing and you can’t help but empathise with the issues he has had and still has to deal with in his personal life.
This series really isn’t to be missed, I’ve read quite a few now and loved everyone. Translated excellently once again by Don Bartlett, nothing is lost in translation and I highly recommend this author and his books, if you enjoy intelligent and well plotted crime mysteries like me.
4 stars
June 7, 2018
This was quite like an old fashioned mystery that unfolded slowly with spurts of quick action thrown in so it never slowed to a lull in reading. I had a bit of trouble keeping up with all the names (I gave up trying to pronounce them) but that’s probably bc I’m an American.
Thanks to Orenda for this free copy:)
Thanks to Orenda for this free copy:)
June 19, 2018
Just when you thought that wily private investigator Varg Veum’s personal life couldn’t get any more complicated, Staalesen illustrates once again his ability to stretch his character to almost breaking point. Grappling with ghosts of the past, and a particularly emotional and troublesome missing person case, Veum is tested to the limit in the course of this all too personal investigation…
It goes without saying that Staalesen consistently produces crime thrillers to the highest standard, and considering how many books have featured the mercurial Varg Veum it is a remarkable achievement to keep a main protagonist so fresh and interesting after so many encounters. And yet this is what Staalesen does, and Big Sister is no exception. From the nod to Chandler in the title of the book itself, Staalesen once again engages us completely with Veum in his now trademark drily witty and hardboiled style. It’s almost as if Staalesen treats Veum as a metaphorical onion, peeling back layer after layer to reveal other aspects of Veum’s character, and unerringly placing him in difficult physical and emotional situations, which are all the more entertaining for us. I think the thing I enjoy most though is the very palpable sense of Veum getting older, and how he reacts differently to situations he’s placed in, as opposed to his younger self, whilst retaining that slightly gung-ho impetuousness and then realising his physical limitations as an older man. The deadpan humour, and cynical world view are in evidence as normal, but Staalesen tempers this beautifully with Veum’s realisation that his life to this point has not been all that it appears, and weighs him down beautifully as to how far he should pursue the truth of his family history. I loved the unfolding of this particular part of the plot, as Veum tries to reconcile his own character with what he knows of where his true parentage lies, and his sudden inclusion in a family and community as the truth of the past is revealed. Staalesen handles this arc of the story sensitively, and fully conveys the emotional confusion that Veum experiences, whilst tempering it to perfection with Veum’s naturally stoical personality.
In the main plot of the missing person investigation, Staalesen again weaves a complex connectivity between Veum and those he encounters, as they seek to evade and conceal their involvement with the victim. This book again takes us to some very dark places dealing with weighty issues such as sexual abuse, suicide, organised crime and addiction, and as always Veum’s gritty determination to solve the case, leads him and those closest to him into physical danger. I always enjoy Veum’s interactions with those he questions, chipping away at them until they either give up what the know, or punch him on the nose. Staalesen’s fluid dialogue, so resonant of the hardboiled masters, is here in spades, and complimented by a twisting and testing plot, and with no exceedingly obvious guilty party there was, as always, much to enjoy here. With pithy references to the ills of contemporary society, the habitual strong sense of place, and a beautifully weighted translation again by Don Bartlett, Big Sister is a brilliant addition to one of the most consistent and enjoyable European crime thriller series. Just what will Staalesen put Veum through next I wonder…. Highly recommended.
It goes without saying that Staalesen consistently produces crime thrillers to the highest standard, and considering how many books have featured the mercurial Varg Veum it is a remarkable achievement to keep a main protagonist so fresh and interesting after so many encounters. And yet this is what Staalesen does, and Big Sister is no exception. From the nod to Chandler in the title of the book itself, Staalesen once again engages us completely with Veum in his now trademark drily witty and hardboiled style. It’s almost as if Staalesen treats Veum as a metaphorical onion, peeling back layer after layer to reveal other aspects of Veum’s character, and unerringly placing him in difficult physical and emotional situations, which are all the more entertaining for us. I think the thing I enjoy most though is the very palpable sense of Veum getting older, and how he reacts differently to situations he’s placed in, as opposed to his younger self, whilst retaining that slightly gung-ho impetuousness and then realising his physical limitations as an older man. The deadpan humour, and cynical world view are in evidence as normal, but Staalesen tempers this beautifully with Veum’s realisation that his life to this point has not been all that it appears, and weighs him down beautifully as to how far he should pursue the truth of his family history. I loved the unfolding of this particular part of the plot, as Veum tries to reconcile his own character with what he knows of where his true parentage lies, and his sudden inclusion in a family and community as the truth of the past is revealed. Staalesen handles this arc of the story sensitively, and fully conveys the emotional confusion that Veum experiences, whilst tempering it to perfection with Veum’s naturally stoical personality.
In the main plot of the missing person investigation, Staalesen again weaves a complex connectivity between Veum and those he encounters, as they seek to evade and conceal their involvement with the victim. This book again takes us to some very dark places dealing with weighty issues such as sexual abuse, suicide, organised crime and addiction, and as always Veum’s gritty determination to solve the case, leads him and those closest to him into physical danger. I always enjoy Veum’s interactions with those he questions, chipping away at them until they either give up what the know, or punch him on the nose. Staalesen’s fluid dialogue, so resonant of the hardboiled masters, is here in spades, and complimented by a twisting and testing plot, and with no exceedingly obvious guilty party there was, as always, much to enjoy here. With pithy references to the ills of contemporary society, the habitual strong sense of place, and a beautifully weighted translation again by Don Bartlett, Big Sister is a brilliant addition to one of the most consistent and enjoyable European crime thriller series. Just what will Staalesen put Veum through next I wonder…. Highly recommended.
May 10, 2018
Gunnar Staalesen is one of the most successful Scandinavian crime fiction writers, some critics refer to him as the ''Norwegian Chandler'', and the creator of a legendary main character, Varg Veum. ''Big Sister'' is the twentieth (!) installment in the series which began in 1977 (''Das Haus mit der grünen Tür'') and Varg is now sixty-one years old while he is trying to solve a possible crime when a young college girl goes missing and nobody seems to know her whereabouts. This particular case has a more ''personal'' angle for Varg as his client is his estranged half-sister (from the same mother) who he never met. The novel retains a not-too-fast and not-too-slow pace, typical of Stallesen's style, and his superb descriptions make, as always, his novels an absorbing and fascinating read. In ''Big Sister'', Varg is going to face some tough revelations about his family and he will doubt, for the first time, things that were certain till now. The central storyline is interesting, though unoriginal, enough and the ending is satisfying but Gunnar Staalesen's novels are distinguished from the mainstream crime fiction by their quality prose which guarantees a truly enjoyable reading experience.
June 23, 2018
This is my second Gunnar Staalesen book in this series and I am loving them. Varg Veum is a P.I. with a lot of experience behind him besides being a man who is pretty well a private bloke, so when a lady turns up and says she is his half-sister that he has never met, I think we were both a bit shocked. Norma’s teenage god-daughter Emma has gone missing and no-one seems to give a damn. Varg Veum sees it, on the surface, as what should be a straightforward case but his life is to get a whole lot more complicated.
The story becomes very personal very quickly, Veum had been happy to leave his mother’s secret child in the past after he discovered the existence of her after their mother’s death. Coming face to face with Norma could give his life a bit of a jolt, in a good way, especially as they are both in their sixties. The more that Veum digs about Emma and the darker the circumstances of her disappearance becomes.
Emma’s personal life is a complicated one that Veum unravels a little at a time. Veum’s family isn’t the only one that had skeletons in the cupboard but some are more heart breaking and devastating than others. I can’t go into the story as it really would spoil it but whoa Staalesen certainly steals the show for suspense, shocks and pure hard life tragedies. This is a story that left me numb as it knocked the stuffing out of me. A brilliant read and super flawless translation.
I wish to thank Anne Cater and Orenda Books for an e-copy of this book which I have honestly reviewed.
The story becomes very personal very quickly, Veum had been happy to leave his mother’s secret child in the past after he discovered the existence of her after their mother’s death. Coming face to face with Norma could give his life a bit of a jolt, in a good way, especially as they are both in their sixties. The more that Veum digs about Emma and the darker the circumstances of her disappearance becomes.
Emma’s personal life is a complicated one that Veum unravels a little at a time. Veum’s family isn’t the only one that had skeletons in the cupboard but some are more heart breaking and devastating than others. I can’t go into the story as it really would spoil it but whoa Staalesen certainly steals the show for suspense, shocks and pure hard life tragedies. This is a story that left me numb as it knocked the stuffing out of me. A brilliant read and super flawless translation.
I wish to thank Anne Cater and Orenda Books for an e-copy of this book which I have honestly reviewed.
April 8, 2021
A bit slow,but good overall
June 25, 2018
The wolf is back! I was so pleased to be re-acquainted with Varg in Big Sister. He is a character I have a real soft spot for and I had eagerly awaited Gunnar Staalesen’s next book. And, oh boy, does Staalesen deliver again with the latest Veum instalment. While this is a long running series Big Sister does work as a standalone although I would highly recommend checking out the earlier books in the series.
When Varg is commissioned to look for the missing god-daughter of Norma Bakkevik, the case takes him into the murky world of a biker group and the darkest corners of the internet. This isn’t all, though, as the lady commissioning Varg on his latest job is the half-sister he had never met before which adds a personal element to the case.
Staalesen’s writing is pitch perfect and the translation by Don Bartlett is, as always, flawless. Big Sister is well paced and it is the combination of his writing, the characterisation of Veum and a tight plot that makes this book so good. Every word is perfectly placed and yet comes across as effortless. Staalesen has perfected the character of Veum and it really feels as though he is talking directly to you. I adore Veum’s dry observations of life and his down to earth manner.
As Veum has to deal with a whole cast of characters who are never a hundred per cent truthful, and who each harbour their own secrets, the plot is chock full of red herrings. It is utterly gripping and it left me stunned.
As the title suggests, family and its varying guises is one of the underlying themes of Big Sister, however, Staalesen looks at it from its darkest angle. One of the things I really like about the Varg Veum books is that Veum is a private investigator rather than a detective and he is an ex social worker. This enables Staalesen to go further with the plots as he is not constrained by police procedural issues. This fits perfectly with the often uncomfortable story lines that Staalesen writes. He never flinches from covering topics that are taboo, and he pushes you to the limits of what you are used to in crime fiction. This makes his books current, topical and thought-provoking and Big Sister is no exception.
The wolf is back and he is on top form! Big Sister is dark, contemporary, intelligent and incredibly well written. A real page-turner, it’s a fantastic addition to the series.
When Varg is commissioned to look for the missing god-daughter of Norma Bakkevik, the case takes him into the murky world of a biker group and the darkest corners of the internet. This isn’t all, though, as the lady commissioning Varg on his latest job is the half-sister he had never met before which adds a personal element to the case.
Staalesen’s writing is pitch perfect and the translation by Don Bartlett is, as always, flawless. Big Sister is well paced and it is the combination of his writing, the characterisation of Veum and a tight plot that makes this book so good. Every word is perfectly placed and yet comes across as effortless. Staalesen has perfected the character of Veum and it really feels as though he is talking directly to you. I adore Veum’s dry observations of life and his down to earth manner.
As Veum has to deal with a whole cast of characters who are never a hundred per cent truthful, and who each harbour their own secrets, the plot is chock full of red herrings. It is utterly gripping and it left me stunned.
As the title suggests, family and its varying guises is one of the underlying themes of Big Sister, however, Staalesen looks at it from its darkest angle. One of the things I really like about the Varg Veum books is that Veum is a private investigator rather than a detective and he is an ex social worker. This enables Staalesen to go further with the plots as he is not constrained by police procedural issues. This fits perfectly with the often uncomfortable story lines that Staalesen writes. He never flinches from covering topics that are taboo, and he pushes you to the limits of what you are used to in crime fiction. This makes his books current, topical and thought-provoking and Big Sister is no exception.
The wolf is back and he is on top form! Big Sister is dark, contemporary, intelligent and incredibly well written. A real page-turner, it’s a fantastic addition to the series.
June 9, 2018
“In November, rain is the personification of gloom,”
This is the third Varg Veum novel I’ve read and I have to say each one is different from the last. With this one, Veum is surprised by a visit by his big sister who has a case for him. I was intrigued how the disappearance of Emma led Veum in so many different directions and gave him so much information, not all necessarily all related, about the past. I loved the personal journey that Veum went on when he ventured down one of his avenues of investigation. Is there more to come with this thread of story?!
I love the Scandinavian names – Knut, Annemette. These are so different to the ones that I come across in my normal reading and I have to admit that my head’s pronunciation probably does the Norwegian no justice in the slightest.
The writing kept me hooked. I don’t know what it is about Mr Staalesen’s writing but my reading style changes. I slow down, savouring every word. There is a poetic feel to Mr Staalesen’s narrative, this could be the structure of the Norwegian language or simply the way he choses his words. Either way, I am totally transported to Veum’s world and I’m there with him every step of the investigation. and I have to say Varg Veum is doing pretty well for a man of his age!
Another cracking read from Mr Staalesen. Bring the next investigation!!
This is the third Varg Veum novel I’ve read and I have to say each one is different from the last. With this one, Veum is surprised by a visit by his big sister who has a case for him. I was intrigued how the disappearance of Emma led Veum in so many different directions and gave him so much information, not all necessarily all related, about the past. I loved the personal journey that Veum went on when he ventured down one of his avenues of investigation. Is there more to come with this thread of story?!
I love the Scandinavian names – Knut, Annemette. These are so different to the ones that I come across in my normal reading and I have to admit that my head’s pronunciation probably does the Norwegian no justice in the slightest.
The writing kept me hooked. I don’t know what it is about Mr Staalesen’s writing but my reading style changes. I slow down, savouring every word. There is a poetic feel to Mr Staalesen’s narrative, this could be the structure of the Norwegian language or simply the way he choses his words. Either way, I am totally transported to Veum’s world and I’m there with him every step of the investigation. and I have to say Varg Veum is doing pretty well for a man of his age!
Another cracking read from Mr Staalesen. Bring the next investigation!!
June 19, 2018
This is the second Varg Veum book I have read, following last year's superb Wolves in the Dark. Varg seems less haunted by his demons in this latest instalment, he drinks less and doesn't seem as set on a path of self-destruction. Nevertheless the case he takes on leads him into great personal danger and also results in him making life-changing discoveries about his own past. His half-sister, Norma arrives at his office unexpectedly one day - though he was aware of her existence, the two had never met previously although he learns that Norma has discreetly followed his movements from a distance for years. However, her visit is not just motivated by the desire to finally meet her half-sibling as she shares her fears for her god-daughter, Emma who has been missing for a few weeks after leaving home to study in Bergen. There is an immediate warmth between Norma and Varg and so he readily accepts the case though there is little to go on and he realises she is being somewhat reticent about certain details.
Though he may be less dour in this book, Varg is still a dogged investigator who will take every necessary step to seek the truth, often going where others fear to tread. He suspects that a decades old crime lies behind Emma's sudden disappearance and his investigation leads him into the murky world of criminal biker gangs and the equally grim world of family secrets. As it transpires that the catalyst for his investigation was a brutal attack on a young woman many years ago, it becomes clear that what links the past and present are young women who have been irrevocably damaged by the men in their lives who should have protected them.
The title of the novel is a clue to the theme that runs throughout Big Sister; this is a book about families; the binding ties; the need to belong; the terrible damage that those most closely related can inflict on one another, either by accident or design. As Varg makes discoveries about his own parents, so he learns the truth about Emma's fractured family life in this contemplative, heartrending story. At one point in the novel,Varg notes that the November rain is 'the personification of gloom' and so it is that the grey days imbue the book with a melancholic feeling which is mirrored by his sombre discoveries. Gunnar Staalesen understands that though crimes may be solved, there are still victims for whom happy endings are impossible and that the shadow cast by evil acts is a long one.
As the latest in a long running series, some people may be concerned about reading Big Sister but I can confirm that it can easily be read as a standalone novel. Though I found it fascinating to see the character development between this and the previous novel and there are the occasional mentions of past cases, this is a self-contained story - although there is an intriguing nod to where the direction the dogged Veum's investigations will take him next so new readers will almost certainly be tempted to become returning readers! I'm definitely looking forward to discovering how the emotional events that occur in this book will effect Varg in the future. Don Bartlett has once again translated the original Norwegian magnificently, retaining the Nordic sense of darkness while ensuring the book flows seamlessly throughout. Though the subject matter may be bleak, Big Sister is a beautifully written novel. Gunnar Staalesen's exquisitely detailed descriptions create an atmospheric, immersive story which is meticulously crafted, sensitively written and wholly engaging. I thoroughly recommend it.
Though he may be less dour in this book, Varg is still a dogged investigator who will take every necessary step to seek the truth, often going where others fear to tread. He suspects that a decades old crime lies behind Emma's sudden disappearance and his investigation leads him into the murky world of criminal biker gangs and the equally grim world of family secrets. As it transpires that the catalyst for his investigation was a brutal attack on a young woman many years ago, it becomes clear that what links the past and present are young women who have been irrevocably damaged by the men in their lives who should have protected them.
The title of the novel is a clue to the theme that runs throughout Big Sister; this is a book about families; the binding ties; the need to belong; the terrible damage that those most closely related can inflict on one another, either by accident or design. As Varg makes discoveries about his own parents, so he learns the truth about Emma's fractured family life in this contemplative, heartrending story. At one point in the novel,Varg notes that the November rain is 'the personification of gloom' and so it is that the grey days imbue the book with a melancholic feeling which is mirrored by his sombre discoveries. Gunnar Staalesen understands that though crimes may be solved, there are still victims for whom happy endings are impossible and that the shadow cast by evil acts is a long one.
As the latest in a long running series, some people may be concerned about reading Big Sister but I can confirm that it can easily be read as a standalone novel. Though I found it fascinating to see the character development between this and the previous novel and there are the occasional mentions of past cases, this is a self-contained story - although there is an intriguing nod to where the direction the dogged Veum's investigations will take him next so new readers will almost certainly be tempted to become returning readers! I'm definitely looking forward to discovering how the emotional events that occur in this book will effect Varg in the future. Don Bartlett has once again translated the original Norwegian magnificently, retaining the Nordic sense of darkness while ensuring the book flows seamlessly throughout. Though the subject matter may be bleak, Big Sister is a beautifully written novel. Gunnar Staalesen's exquisitely detailed descriptions create an atmospheric, immersive story which is meticulously crafted, sensitively written and wholly engaging. I thoroughly recommend it.
June 23, 2018
Big Sister – Top Nordic Noir
Gunnar Staalesen is back and once again proving why he is regarded as one of the best Nordic Noir thriller on the scene. He is also is my favourite way of visiting Norway without having to put up with the cold weather and the darkness of a Norwegian winter. Big Sister is once again Staalesen at his sublime best, with all his darkness and throwing in a surprising twist when you think you have everything sorted out in your mind.
Varg Veum’s world has changed, well around him anyway, as his office has now been absorbed into a hotel, maybe even slightly improved. The rain in November provides all the gloom you need, or you think you need. When Veum’s half sister employs him to find a girl in Bergen on a case the police have refused to take seriously.
Veum’s investigation takes on a direction of all its own and turns in to a rollercoaster ride in the gloom. Once Veum has picked at a scab that would probably been better off left alone. What he discovers a world of crimes that have been covered up, some by blind faith and ignorance, and others because people did not want to take a closer look.
What ever Veum seems to do, all roads lead towards a gang of bikers and the even scarier part of the modern world, the internet. When things turn personal, it is Veum that seems to be on the end of it, however painful it seems to get.
Big Sister will have you gripped from beginning to end, shocked but still entertained. Staalesen’s Varg Veum series gets better with every outing, and it is hard to believe that this series has been going for over forty years.
The translation, by Don Bartlett, is second to none as usual and well done to Karen Sullivan in bring this series to the English reader, through Orenda Books.
Gunnar Staalesen is back and once again proving why he is regarded as one of the best Nordic Noir thriller on the scene. He is also is my favourite way of visiting Norway without having to put up with the cold weather and the darkness of a Norwegian winter. Big Sister is once again Staalesen at his sublime best, with all his darkness and throwing in a surprising twist when you think you have everything sorted out in your mind.
Varg Veum’s world has changed, well around him anyway, as his office has now been absorbed into a hotel, maybe even slightly improved. The rain in November provides all the gloom you need, or you think you need. When Veum’s half sister employs him to find a girl in Bergen on a case the police have refused to take seriously.
Veum’s investigation takes on a direction of all its own and turns in to a rollercoaster ride in the gloom. Once Veum has picked at a scab that would probably been better off left alone. What he discovers a world of crimes that have been covered up, some by blind faith and ignorance, and others because people did not want to take a closer look.
What ever Veum seems to do, all roads lead towards a gang of bikers and the even scarier part of the modern world, the internet. When things turn personal, it is Veum that seems to be on the end of it, however painful it seems to get.
Big Sister will have you gripped from beginning to end, shocked but still entertained. Staalesen’s Varg Veum series gets better with every outing, and it is hard to believe that this series has been going for over forty years.
The translation, by Don Bartlett, is second to none as usual and well done to Karen Sullivan in bring this series to the English reader, through Orenda Books.
June 22, 2018
Big Sister is the latest in the long running series to feature Varg Veum and is set in 2003. The case he has to solve is often chilling and a harsh reminder that some of the more murky side to society was an issue then as well. Many of the people he has to see don’t want to talk or are simply unable to. And some of them you really wouldn’t want to meet.
With this novel I felt like I got to know Varg more. There is the case he is trying to solve, which he does in his usual way. Mainly by annoying people and putting himself in danger. But the case has been brought to him by his older half sister who he had never met. With the arrival of Norma, Varg discovers more about himself and his family and whilst apprehensive he feels an instant connection to her. Much of this side of the story really touched me, how common is it to know nothing at all about loved ones?
I think this is book twenty in the series but with the way it is written a reader can pick any of the books up and follow them easily. This one was the third that I have read and they are all later in the series. I haven’t noticed any spoilers and Varg is the type of character who you feel like you would want to always have around. Quiet, determined, and even though at times he appears to be a loner there are always people there who he can turn to.
I have enjoyed all the books that I have read so far but this is my favourite. This is the one where the poetry comes through. How many authors are there who can make rain sound so enticing?
With this novel I felt like I got to know Varg more. There is the case he is trying to solve, which he does in his usual way. Mainly by annoying people and putting himself in danger. But the case has been brought to him by his older half sister who he had never met. With the arrival of Norma, Varg discovers more about himself and his family and whilst apprehensive he feels an instant connection to her. Much of this side of the story really touched me, how common is it to know nothing at all about loved ones?
I think this is book twenty in the series but with the way it is written a reader can pick any of the books up and follow them easily. This one was the third that I have read and they are all later in the series. I haven’t noticed any spoilers and Varg is the type of character who you feel like you would want to always have around. Quiet, determined, and even though at times he appears to be a loner there are always people there who he can turn to.
I have enjoyed all the books that I have read so far but this is my favourite. This is the one where the poetry comes through. How many authors are there who can make rain sound so enticing?
June 10, 2018
Private Investigator Varg Veum has more than the usual interest when taking on his new case. The woman who asks is his sister whom he has never met, so not only a chance to get to know her but also the possibility of finding out more about his family. His sister is concerned about the disappearance of her god-daughter.
This is yet another new to me author as I join in the Varg Veum series. Sometimes I think this is a good thing especially when the book works as a standalone, as this one does. It means I have no prior expectations. This is set Bergen Norway and one of the first things that struck me was the wonderful descriptions of the area the author describes, i was able to build a good picture of the area and also the climate brrr. It was a great stand alone book to read as I learnt some details about Varg at the same time he did from his sister. There are things in his past that I still want to know more about and reading the previous books will obviously fill in the stories.
This is a serious case for Varg as the disappearance of a young woman is not taken seriously by the police. The more he delves into he case the darker it gets, the more the plot twists and I was taken into a scenario I really didn’t expect.
This is a slower paced book and I thought it really did suit the story quite well, it gave me a chance to get to grips with the names of other characters and also place names. These I really did struggle with initially, taking me a few sentences to recognise which character was which. This is not anything to do with the author here and is no criticism with his writing, it is purely my lack of knowledge regarding Norway and not knowing any names. But it didn’t really distract from the story and this is where the slower pace really helped as I needed to pay extra attention.
So for a first time reader of this author I found the story addictive, interesting and as if I was being drawn down a tunnel that got darker the further I went. It had a good amount of suspense and kept me engrossed, I would have happily rad it in one sitting if I didn’t have to go to work. It has also left me wanting to know more about PI Varg Veum so I will be looking for other books by Gunnar Staalesen. I must also say that the translator Don Bartlett has done a fantastic job, the translation is seamless.
If you are after a gripping, slower paced Nordic Noir that is dark and full of suspense then this book really is worth reading. It works really well as a stand alone and I would definitely recommend it.
This is yet another new to me author as I join in the Varg Veum series. Sometimes I think this is a good thing especially when the book works as a standalone, as this one does. It means I have no prior expectations. This is set Bergen Norway and one of the first things that struck me was the wonderful descriptions of the area the author describes, i was able to build a good picture of the area and also the climate brrr. It was a great stand alone book to read as I learnt some details about Varg at the same time he did from his sister. There are things in his past that I still want to know more about and reading the previous books will obviously fill in the stories.
This is a serious case for Varg as the disappearance of a young woman is not taken seriously by the police. The more he delves into he case the darker it gets, the more the plot twists and I was taken into a scenario I really didn’t expect.
This is a slower paced book and I thought it really did suit the story quite well, it gave me a chance to get to grips with the names of other characters and also place names. These I really did struggle with initially, taking me a few sentences to recognise which character was which. This is not anything to do with the author here and is no criticism with his writing, it is purely my lack of knowledge regarding Norway and not knowing any names. But it didn’t really distract from the story and this is where the slower pace really helped as I needed to pay extra attention.
So for a first time reader of this author I found the story addictive, interesting and as if I was being drawn down a tunnel that got darker the further I went. It had a good amount of suspense and kept me engrossed, I would have happily rad it in one sitting if I didn’t have to go to work. It has also left me wanting to know more about PI Varg Veum so I will be looking for other books by Gunnar Staalesen. I must also say that the translator Don Bartlett has done a fantastic job, the translation is seamless.
If you are after a gripping, slower paced Nordic Noir that is dark and full of suspense then this book really is worth reading. It works really well as a stand alone and I would definitely recommend it.
June 18, 2018
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to preview this book. Only my second book in this series, but very enjoyable. Slow to get going, but a very good ending. Strongly recommended.
July 9, 2018
Here I am. Sitting at my desk late at night on a Thursday. The way it should be to try and find the right words to express how each Varg Veum story is like good aquavit.
The first time someone offers a glass, you say no, thanks.
The second time, curiosity wins and you are charmed by the taste, although you cannot pinpoint why.
You make the third time happen by pouring it yourself. Once. Twice. And again. Soon it becomes an addiction.
Okay, maybe this is not my best metaphor!!! But this is how I see my relationship with Gunnar Staalesen’s series. In a healthy way! Although my heart breaks every time I finish one of his books.
You always come back to the safety of a brilliant and seemingly effortless writing.
You sip, you let your palate play with the words. An explosion of emotions happen. Not suddenly. Not even gradually. Feelings just slip from the pages to your body. You are not looking for anything. You let the story take you wherever it wants. Because you know it is what you want, what you need, and you feel comfort at the familiarity of each book.
Varg Veum is a mystery. An onion. So many layers we get to see peeled, forging the man, making him more real with each movement. I love everything about him - the fact we get to know him through his cases, through his good and bad moments. Yes, you could find this sentence in so many crime series. But Varg Veum is different. There is an after-taste, there are holes in the story, there are missing pieces of puzzles you solve (or not) in a delicate, strong, beautifully human way.
Being a private investigator gives him more freedom regarding hierarchy, for sure, but it also leaves him so vulnerable at times.
Big Sister hits where it hurts from the start. Family matters. Always them! A half-sister coming from nowhere wants him to find a young girl. Seems simple enough. But oh my! Varg Veum, you are my hero! He runs from one discovery to a beating-up, to a thoughtful conversation to a gut-feeling that is oh-so-often right, and he just takes my hand and I follow until my eyes sting and my brain can’t decipher the words on the page.
Varg Veum doesn’t need a fast car, a fast-paced race against time, or great hair. Varg Veum is the kind of guy you want to deal with when life is a mystery. When you want more from a story than just a bit of adrenaline and characters you will forget once the book in shelved. Varg Veum has an entire world on his shoulder, scarred, fascinating, heart-breaking, but always, always perfect. I have no other words for it.
I could get lost in Gunnar Staalesen’s pure style and his ‘old-fashioned’ cases which take me to another place. A place where time stops and the word investigation takes on a million meanings. You investigate a case, people, yourself, and life.
You get a full experience in the hands of a master of Nordic Noir.
May 15, 2018
Eg var litt skuffa etter forrige bok, då eg for første gong gjetta kven syndaren var i god tid før slutt; med tidlegare Veum-bøker har eg alltid blitt noko overraska over vendingar den vegen.
Men denne gongen gjetta eg ikkje twisten og var såleis nøgd.
Eg har lese alle Varg Veum bøkene og som oftast les eg dei ut i løpet av 2-3 dagar, dei er lettleste og "page-turners", Storesøster var ikkje noko unntak der.
Men, det er ting som skurrar for meg; eg finn det lite truverdig at personar ein nettopp har møtt skal fortelje ein *akkurat* det ein har bruk for, sånn tilfeldigvis... Nyttig for handlinga, men litt for enkelt.
Vidare er "skurkane" temmeleg ein-dimensjonale, dei er onde og det er det.
Etter at dei forferdeleg Varg Veum filmane kom ut, syns eg at Staalesen hadde tilpassa bok-Veum noko til filmvarianten, han blei meir moraliserande og konfronterande. Eit lite heldig trekk.
Dette er no tona ned og godt er det.
Alt i alt, page-turners er gode ting og eg er glad for å ha lese boka, men eg blei ikkje spesielt imponert og det er ei stund sidan ei Varg Veum bok gjorde det, men likevel eit steg opp frå Ingen er så trygg i fare.
Trur eg skal gjere alvor av å lese om att Bergens-trilogien i staden...
Men denne gongen gjetta eg ikkje twisten og var såleis nøgd.
Eg har lese alle Varg Veum bøkene og som oftast les eg dei ut i løpet av 2-3 dagar, dei er lettleste og "page-turners", Storesøster var ikkje noko unntak der.
Men, det er ting som skurrar for meg; eg finn det lite truverdig at personar ein nettopp har møtt skal fortelje ein *akkurat* det ein har bruk for, sånn tilfeldigvis... Nyttig for handlinga, men litt for enkelt.
Vidare er "skurkane" temmeleg ein-dimensjonale, dei er onde og det er det.
Etter at dei forferdeleg Varg Veum filmane kom ut, syns eg at Staalesen hadde tilpassa bok-Veum noko til filmvarianten, han blei meir moraliserande og konfronterande. Eit lite heldig trekk.
Dette er no tona ned og godt er det.
Alt i alt, page-turners er gode ting og eg er glad for å ha lese boka, men eg blei ikkje spesielt imponert og det er ei stund sidan ei Varg Veum bok gjorde det, men likevel eit steg opp frå Ingen er så trygg i fare.
Trur eg skal gjere alvor av å lese om att Bergens-trilogien i staden...
June 13, 2018
Varg seemed a little less cantankerous in this book and a lot more amicable. I suppose discovering that the mother you thought you knew isn’t the woman everyone else remembers is a bit of a surprise, and finding out you have a half-sister to boot is a wee bit of a shock.
Norma turns up out of the blue to tell him they are related and to ask Varg whether he will look for her missing god-daughter Emma. He instinctively feels compelled to help, despite the fact his sister is vague and secretive about the facts concerning Emma and her disappearance.
Once again Varg finds himself embroiled in the dangerous world of criminal biker gangs. The only difference this time is the fact a crime committed many decades ago becomes the catalyst in this violent and brutal storyline, at the same time it is also a very emotional one.
Staalesen subtly highlights the often fragile relationships between family members and the instinctual call of blood. Can a stranger become more than that within a short period of time just because they share DNA or a blood relationship with you? The revelation of Norma and her secret existence makes Varg wonder about his own truth, which is further amplified when a cousin suggests his own past may not be as straightforward as he was led to believe.
All the revelations make him even more determined to find the young girl noone seems to be looking for. She has simply slid off the radar and now the only person trying to find her is Varg, and he wouldn’t be the ‘doesn’t give a hoot’ kind of guy readers have come to appreciate if he didn’t accidentally stumble upon more nefarious crimes during the execution of his job.
Staalesen presents us with a softer and more reflective Varg this time. Don’t get me wrong, he still portrays him as a person possessed when it comes to sniffing out the truth and getting justice for victims, but this time he is less grumpy and sarcastic about it all.
It is Nordic Noir meets modern day crime, and it changes the perception of Scandinavian countries a wee bit. Forget the image of the easygoing and law-abiding people, immerse yourself in the darker side of the Nordic people. It’s emotional without being soppy, whilst taking the reader on an action packed ride. The author doesn’t placate the reader with happy endings, instead he forces them to stare into the face of reality.
*I received a copy of this book courtesy of the publisher* I also bought a copy.
Norma turns up out of the blue to tell him they are related and to ask Varg whether he will look for her missing god-daughter Emma. He instinctively feels compelled to help, despite the fact his sister is vague and secretive about the facts concerning Emma and her disappearance.
Once again Varg finds himself embroiled in the dangerous world of criminal biker gangs. The only difference this time is the fact a crime committed many decades ago becomes the catalyst in this violent and brutal storyline, at the same time it is also a very emotional one.
Staalesen subtly highlights the often fragile relationships between family members and the instinctual call of blood. Can a stranger become more than that within a short period of time just because they share DNA or a blood relationship with you? The revelation of Norma and her secret existence makes Varg wonder about his own truth, which is further amplified when a cousin suggests his own past may not be as straightforward as he was led to believe.
All the revelations make him even more determined to find the young girl noone seems to be looking for. She has simply slid off the radar and now the only person trying to find her is Varg, and he wouldn’t be the ‘doesn’t give a hoot’ kind of guy readers have come to appreciate if he didn’t accidentally stumble upon more nefarious crimes during the execution of his job.
Staalesen presents us with a softer and more reflective Varg this time. Don’t get me wrong, he still portrays him as a person possessed when it comes to sniffing out the truth and getting justice for victims, but this time he is less grumpy and sarcastic about it all.
It is Nordic Noir meets modern day crime, and it changes the perception of Scandinavian countries a wee bit. Forget the image of the easygoing and law-abiding people, immerse yourself in the darker side of the Nordic people. It’s emotional without being soppy, whilst taking the reader on an action packed ride. The author doesn’t placate the reader with happy endings, instead he forces them to stare into the face of reality.
*I received a copy of this book courtesy of the publisher* I also bought a copy.
June 14, 2018
WOW! I was ready for that! I have been reading a fair amount of contemporary romance of late (too much crime fiction make Sooz a little fuzzy headed) and I was ready to get my head back into the world of Noir and BIG SISTER was EXACTLY what I needed in my life!
After WOLVES IN THE DARK I continue to find it refreshing that Veum is not a sprightly young thirty-something man who displays quick reflexes and is able to acrobat himself out of any murky situation! No. Veum is in his sixties for startes. As such behaves as a sixty year old. He hurts. He sasses and is straight talking, which as a reader gets me excited to read what he can possibly get himself into next and when he does, how will he tackle it.
Taking on a missing persons case may sound simple enough, but as with most stories like this, once you start poking around and asking questions, separate stories and characters begin to appear from the woodwork. Gunnar’s writing pace allows for the reader to fully digest each of the characters and their own back stories, allowing us to form the bigger picture before we learn the conclusion at the end of the book.
BIG SISTER is an intrique web of lies, secrets, deceit and unspoken truths. It’s the classic story of pulling at a thread and seeing the whole thing unravel, but what Gunnar and Don have been able to do is allow the unravelling happen at a speed in which we can really feel everything come undone. It’s a particular credit to Don in his translation for English readers to truly feel Gunnar’s intention with this story.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading who comes knocking at Veum’s door next!
TL DR; It’s dead good. You should go buy this book yeah! 🙂
After WOLVES IN THE DARK I continue to find it refreshing that Veum is not a sprightly young thirty-something man who displays quick reflexes and is able to acrobat himself out of any murky situation! No. Veum is in his sixties for startes. As such behaves as a sixty year old. He hurts. He sasses and is straight talking, which as a reader gets me excited to read what he can possibly get himself into next and when he does, how will he tackle it.
Taking on a missing persons case may sound simple enough, but as with most stories like this, once you start poking around and asking questions, separate stories and characters begin to appear from the woodwork. Gunnar’s writing pace allows for the reader to fully digest each of the characters and their own back stories, allowing us to form the bigger picture before we learn the conclusion at the end of the book.
BIG SISTER is an intrique web of lies, secrets, deceit and unspoken truths. It’s the classic story of pulling at a thread and seeing the whole thing unravel, but what Gunnar and Don have been able to do is allow the unravelling happen at a speed in which we can really feel everything come undone. It’s a particular credit to Don in his translation for English readers to truly feel Gunnar’s intention with this story.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading who comes knocking at Veum’s door next!
TL DR; It’s dead good. You should go buy this book yeah! 🙂
June 17, 2018
Big Sister is part of the Varg Veum series which first started back in 1977, this is the fourth book to be translated into English and published by Orenda Books. Despite the long running series, Big Sister reads very well as a standalone therefore no prior knowledge is needed. I suspect that if you have read the books in order then there is a higher level of understanding associated with each read however it doesn't impact new readers. I absolutely loved Wolves in the Dark so was very excited to read Big Sister!
Gunnar Staalesen has created a brilliant and likeable character in Private Investigator, Varg who is in his early sixties (I love the fact that he is an older gentleman and has aged with the series rather than remained around the same age (I'm looking at you Mr Bond!) In Big Sister we are introduced to Varg's half sister who he has been estranged from his whole life and didn't even know of her existence until their mother died. Norma's goddaughter, Emma, has gone missing - seemingly disappeared without a trace. Emma's disappearance has been reported to the police however they don't seem too concerned so Norma gets in touch with Varg to help find some answers. When Varg agrees to take on the case, he doesn't realise what secrets it is going to unearth and the situations it will get him into! It was interesting to see Varg building up a relationship with Norma whilst trying to find Emma.
What starts of as a standard missing person case is nothing but at the end and Staalesen beautifully weaves a complex story line which keeps the reader engrossed from start to end. He deals with some difficult subjects throughout the book which takes the reader to some dark places whilst exploring family relationships, both good and bad.
Big Sister is a brilliant example of Nordic Noir, full of dark secrets and chilling characters. I love the way in which Staalesen writes his books both in terms of his prose and short chapters which is just asking for 'just one more chapter' when you are trying to put the book down!
Once again, Don Bartlett has done a sterling job with the translation because other that the names and locations, it is impossible to tell that this book wasn't originally written in English.
I thoroughly enjoyed Big Sister and I didn't want it to end - another brilliant read (and translation).
Gunnar Staalesen has created a brilliant and likeable character in Private Investigator, Varg who is in his early sixties (I love the fact that he is an older gentleman and has aged with the series rather than remained around the same age (I'm looking at you Mr Bond!) In Big Sister we are introduced to Varg's half sister who he has been estranged from his whole life and didn't even know of her existence until their mother died. Norma's goddaughter, Emma, has gone missing - seemingly disappeared without a trace. Emma's disappearance has been reported to the police however they don't seem too concerned so Norma gets in touch with Varg to help find some answers. When Varg agrees to take on the case, he doesn't realise what secrets it is going to unearth and the situations it will get him into! It was interesting to see Varg building up a relationship with Norma whilst trying to find Emma.
What starts of as a standard missing person case is nothing but at the end and Staalesen beautifully weaves a complex story line which keeps the reader engrossed from start to end. He deals with some difficult subjects throughout the book which takes the reader to some dark places whilst exploring family relationships, both good and bad.
Big Sister is a brilliant example of Nordic Noir, full of dark secrets and chilling characters. I love the way in which Staalesen writes his books both in terms of his prose and short chapters which is just asking for 'just one more chapter' when you are trying to put the book down!
Once again, Don Bartlett has done a sterling job with the translation because other that the names and locations, it is impossible to tell that this book wasn't originally written in English.
I thoroughly enjoyed Big Sister and I didn't want it to end - another brilliant read (and translation).
June 13, 2018
I’d like to start by thanking Anne Cater and Orenda Books not only for providing me with a copy of the book and for inviting me to take part in the blog tour, but also for introducing me to the novels of Norwegian author Gunnar Staalesen. I am still finding my way in the Nordic novels and I am always happy to discover new authors.
The protagonist of the novel is Varg Veum, a private investigator who would have never thought that the first time he met his half-sister Norma would be when she asked him to find her goddaughter Emma, a nineteen-year-old girl who disappeared without leaving any trace. I don’t know if I was more engrossed in Varg Veum’s family drama or the case he was investigating. Sometimes, the two stories are separated, sometimes they merge as Varg tries to discover who is involved in Emma’s disappearance. At the beginning, this seems to be just the case of a young woman who ran off because of the complicated relationship with her estranged father and her drug-addict mother. But as Varg delves deeper into the case, he brings to light a much darker truth than just a complicated family, often at the risk of his life and the people he loves.
The novel is not fast-paced, but the surprises, the revelations (not only about the case, but also about Varg’s family and past) are enough to keep the tension high and keep you glued to the page. The characters are well-developed and I especially liked the character of Varg. I found him realistic, smart, calm, and he knows how to get people to talk even when they don’t want to. The dark, evocative Norwegian setting is suitable for the novel, the perfect frame for the crimes at the center of the story.
The only problem that I had with this novel is that I had some difficulty remembering the names of the characters because I am not familiar with the Norwegian language. But that’s only a small personal glitch, and I will be recommending everyone to read this thrilling, dark, entertaining novel.
The protagonist of the novel is Varg Veum, a private investigator who would have never thought that the first time he met his half-sister Norma would be when she asked him to find her goddaughter Emma, a nineteen-year-old girl who disappeared without leaving any trace. I don’t know if I was more engrossed in Varg Veum’s family drama or the case he was investigating. Sometimes, the two stories are separated, sometimes they merge as Varg tries to discover who is involved in Emma’s disappearance. At the beginning, this seems to be just the case of a young woman who ran off because of the complicated relationship with her estranged father and her drug-addict mother. But as Varg delves deeper into the case, he brings to light a much darker truth than just a complicated family, often at the risk of his life and the people he loves.
The novel is not fast-paced, but the surprises, the revelations (not only about the case, but also about Varg’s family and past) are enough to keep the tension high and keep you glued to the page. The characters are well-developed and I especially liked the character of Varg. I found him realistic, smart, calm, and he knows how to get people to talk even when they don’t want to. The dark, evocative Norwegian setting is suitable for the novel, the perfect frame for the crimes at the center of the story.
The only problem that I had with this novel is that I had some difficulty remembering the names of the characters because I am not familiar with the Norwegian language. But that’s only a small personal glitch, and I will be recommending everyone to read this thrilling, dark, entertaining novel.
June 16, 2018
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I really enjoyed this story, it was well paced and kept me hooked!
I loved the story line and found myself addicted to the plot - I needed to find out how the book ended but also didn't want it to stop at the same time! It is more of an old style crime thriller and I really enjoyed it for that as it stood out from a lot of other books available at the moment.
This is part of a series but I haven't read any of the previous books and it read fine to me so I'm happy to say that it reads fine as a stand alone - but I will be making an effort to read the other books as this one was very well written.
Four stars from me for this one - looking forward to reading more by this author!
I really enjoyed this story, it was well paced and kept me hooked!
I loved the story line and found myself addicted to the plot - I needed to find out how the book ended but also didn't want it to stop at the same time! It is more of an old style crime thriller and I really enjoyed it for that as it stood out from a lot of other books available at the moment.
This is part of a series but I haven't read any of the previous books and it read fine to me so I'm happy to say that it reads fine as a stand alone - but I will be making an effort to read the other books as this one was very well written.
Four stars from me for this one - looking forward to reading more by this author!
December 19, 2020
Good but not Staalesen's best. Still recommended.
December 13, 2024
I don't know how I could have missed this series in all my years of reading Scandinavian crime fiction, but well, here I am finally! I read this in a single day! I must thank the person who gave this to me for my last birthday!
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