Quick Take

A drowned young woman is discovered on an abandoned pleasure boat drifting by the Stockholm archipelago---strangely, her clothes are dry. The next day in Stockholm, a man turns up dead, hanging from a lamp hook inside his completely bare apartment---but how could he have hung himself with no furniture to climb upon? As Detective Inspector Joona Linna begins to piece together the two mysteries, he discovers that they are a mere prelude to a dizzying and dangerous course of events.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Nightmare (Joona Linna, #2)

Introduction

"The Nightmare" by Lars Kepler is the second installment in the Joona Linna series, following the successful debut novel "The Hypnotist." Set in Stockholm, Sweden, the story revolves around Detective Inspector Joona Linna as he investigates two mysterious deaths that seem to be linked. As he delves deeper into the case, Linna discovers a dangerous plot involving arms sales and a psychopathic killer. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and Scandinavian setting, "The Nightmare" has garnered critical acclaim and captured the attention of readers worldwide.

About Lars Kepler

Lars Kepler is the pseudonym of the critically acclaimed husband and wife team Alexander Ahndoril and Alexandra Coelho Ahndoril. With their collaboration, they have created the Joona Linna series, which has become a global phenomenon. The duo has also written several other successful novels individually. Their writing style, characterization, and ability to craft captivating stories have earned them a dedicated fan base.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Plot: Readers praise the book for its intriguing plot that keeps them on the edge of their seats. The combination of two seemingly unrelated deaths and the subsequent investigation into a larger conspiracy creates a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps readers hooked.
Well-Crafted Characters: The characters in "The Nightmare" are well-developed and believable. Joona Linna, in particular, is described as an intense and dogged police detective who is determined to solve the case at any cost. Readers appreciate the depth and complexity of the characters, which adds depth to the story.
Scandinavian Setting: The setting of Stockholm, Sweden adds a unique flavor to the book. Readers enjoy the portrayal of Swedish culture and the exploration of themes such as conflicts between big conglomerates and individuals, as well as corruption and morality.
Thrilling Pace: The book maintains a fast-paced narrative throughout, with action-packed scenes and chases that keep readers engaged. The story moves forward at a breakneck speed, making it a thrilling read from beginning to end.
Involved Characterization: The authors excel in creating involved characterization, with backstory and memories interwoven into the plot. This approach adds depth to the characters and enhances their development throughout the story.

Reasons for Recommendation

Gripping Plot: The book's intriguing plot with its unexpected twists and turns keeps readers engaged from start to finish. It is a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Well-Crafted Characters: The well-developed characters add depth to the story and make it more immersive. Joona Linna's character is particularly compelling, as he is portrayed as an intense and dedicated detective.
Scandinavian Setting: The Scandinavian setting adds a unique cultural element to the story, making it stand out from other thrillers. It offers a fresh perspective on themes such as corruption and morality.
Thrilling Pace: The book maintains a fast-paced narrative throughout, with action-packed scenes that keep readers engaged. It is a thrilling read that will keep you hooked until the very end.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Length: Some readers feel that the book could have been shorter, with unnecessary side stories detracting from the main plot. They find it difficult to get through certain sections that they deem unnecessary or redundant.
Hateful Protagonist: A few readers find the protagonist, Penelope, to be self-righteous and one-dimensional, making it difficult for them to connect with her or root for her success. This can be a deal-breaker for some readers who prefer more likable main characters.

Conclusion

"The Nightmare" by Lars Kepler is a captivating thriller that continues the Joona Linna series with its gripping plot, well-crafted characters, and Scandinavian setting. Readers praise the book for its intriguing plot that keeps them engaged from start to finish. While some find it lengthy or dislike certain aspects of the protagonist's characterization, overall, "The Nightmare" is recommended for fans of crime fiction and thrillers who enjoy complex plots and well-developed characters. With its fast-paced narrative and engaging storytelling, this book is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.