Within the Circle

In Stockholm, two deadly explosions—a car crash and a bomb in a PR company office—seem unrelated. But then a letter arrives at police headquarters, addressed to DI Eva Nys, referring to both incidents. The letter claims they occurred in the name of climate activism and warns of a third explosion to come.

Fearing a wave of terrorism, Eva and four other experienced detectives are formed into a new group called NOVA to investigate and, if possible, stop these crimes. The letter to Eva seems directed at her personally, and she recognizes some of the language used as belonging to her former police mentor and partner, Lukas Frisell.

Lukas left the police after a botched kidnapping investigation under his command resulted in the victim’s death. He then retrained as a specialist in off-grid living and survival, teaching at a university before retreating to live in seclusion in the forest. Eva finds it hard to believe that the good man she once knew could be behind the bombings, so she sets out to find him—to see for herself and, if he is involved, determine whether he’s working alone or as part of a terrorist group.

This is a gripping start to a new Swedish crime series. Told through multiple perspectives, it’s a compelling mystery with intertwining strands. The members of NOVA are introduced with hints of intriguing backstories that are sure to be explored in future installments. Lukas, too, is a complex character who has been cut off from the world for years. During his time in isolation, technology has advanced significantly, but he hasn’t lost his police instincts, his resourcefulness, or his network of old contacts willing to help him.

The intrigue draws the reader in, unraveling the connection between the explosions and the perpetrator’s motivation. A mysterious symbol—a circle within a circle—keeps appearing at the explosion sites, a tantalizing clue to the larger mystery. After a gradual start, the pace accelerates, building a tense atmosphere. Unexpected twists propel the plot forward, keeping the reader guessing what the endgame will be. Recommended for fans of Nordic noir.

With thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a copy to read.