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The Thirst by Jo Nesbo (first published in 2017 by Harvill Secker, an imprint of Penguin Random House)
Norway is bleeding. A series of murders is sweeping across Oslo and what unites them is the vicious murderer who appears to be obsessed with blood. Katrine Bratt is assigned to the case, but it seems like they are making no progress.
As the bodies pile up, the department seems to have no choice but to call in Harry Hole. At first reluctant, Hole prefers his now-retired lifestyle of teaching.
However, when he feels a slight sense of déjà vu with the case, a niggling feeling of connection, he can’t help but join the team to track down the killer and stop him once and for all.
Life decides to challenge Harry Hole as his personal life vies for dominance with his professional life, and he finds himself needing to consider who is more important; his family or the killer.
Despite this, he gives it his all and we can only hope that that is enough.
The Thirst was my first Jo Nesbo, and I picked it up amid the encouragement of several of my friends. Having finished it, I think I am able to sum the author up in two words: Red Herring. Red herrings everywhere and it is glorious!
WATCH: Jo Nesbo chats about The Thirst
Nesbo is crafty, and somewhat sneaky, with elaborately planned plots that incriminate several characters - disguising the true ending until it crashes upon you like the percussion solo in an orchestra.
While it is apparently quite far down the line in Harry Hole novels, The Thirst was great on its own for a newbie like me – I had no sense of bewilderment at past references or the like, which was refreshing.
I like that Nesbo has created a world into which a new fan can step at any given moment, and feel welcome. That is skill. So if you are like me and have never read a Jo Nesbo, feel free to start with The Thirst – it’s as gruesome as it is gratifying.
Read more of Samantha’s reviews on her book blog.
Purchase a copy of the Thirst from Takealot.com
