Deceit (2021)

2021

307 pages

Crime Fiction

Deceit (2021)

Who slips needles into fruit on a shop counter – and why? Trying to get to the bottom of this mystery, detective Soffia doesn’t get much help form her own department as Covid has left the force short-staffed. Her psychologist ex-husband Adam has assisted the police before, and she brings him in to shed light on the psychological angle. The search for the criminal leads this former couple down some unexpected avenues as they follow one lead after another – even though Adam would much prefer to deal with his professional and personal problems in the privacy of his own home. Jonina Leosdottir has built up a devoted following for her novels, not least for her series featuring Edda, who turns detective in her retirement. In this new novel she continues to weave a tangled mystery with an engaging cast of characters, each of whom brings a complex set of their own issues to the story.

Reviews

... skilful book riddled with lies and secrets.

MARK SANDERSON, THE TIMES, UK

Humor prevails here… broaching important social issues while keeping a sense of levity above all else.

STEINTHOR GUDBJARTSSON, MORGUNBLADID DAILY

The story begins with a bang transporting the reader immediately into a chain of events beginning with inspector Soffia looking for an expert to consult on the case of Adam, who is a psychologist and also happens to be Soffia’s ex-husband. The case itself involves persecution and vandalism. … Adam and Jenny. This is where the author took me by surprise. The relationship between Adam and Jenny is a really interesting thread in the narrative that I found especially appealing.

JANA HJORVAR, LESTRARKLEFINN

Jónína Leósdóttir has written a fantastic crime novel with a unique protagonist and a gripping plot that will keep the reader glued to the pages.

YRSA SIGURDARDOTTIR

… an intriguing, unique plot with numerous potential resolutions … well-written, engaging, and fresh. Jónina Leósdóttir is unquestionably a welcome addition to the elite group of Icelandic authors whose works have been translated into English for which we have Quentin Bates to thank.

WEST WORDS REVIEWS, UK

I have a real thing for Icelandic crime and this is another to add to the list. … the book kept me engaged and gripped throughout, never quite knowing in which direction the author was going to take me, the plot line is wonderfully constructed and the author draws out the suspense and drama. … The book is superbly pitched, with a clever plot which has a real depth, combined with strongly written protagonists and a narrative full of intrigue. Overall this is a story which works on every level, character and location, terrific plot line, moments of the unexpected, the twists come just at the right moments, the quality of the writing brings it all together, keeps the reader guessing until the end. Another welcome addition of Icelandic Noir and one to watch out for.

AMWBOOKREVIEWS.WORDPRESS.COM, UK

This was an interesting case involving a mostly awful family with a completely unexpected ending, but for me the strongest part of the novel were the characters. I see huge potential for further novels.

STEPHSBOOKBLOG.COM, UK

Leósdóttir’s characterisation and empathy are particularly strong.

LIZZYSIDDAL2.WORDPRESS.COM, UK

... a brilliant novel and I was instantly hooked by the main characters ... The tense but enthralling relationship between Soffia and Adam adds an intriguing dynamic to the story and I really think that, despite their history, they work very well together on a professional basis. I’m really looking forward to reading more about this couple and I hope they will appear again in future novels! The plot has everything you need for a gritty, addictive and dramatic thriller. I’d love to visit Iceland at some point as I’m quickly falling in love with the country that provides such an atmospheric and mesmerising backdrop for so many great novels. Perfect for readers who enjoy a character-driven story that has you hooked from page one!

JO GARRIC, MURDERJOWROTE, UK

A novel written by a new and exciting voice in Icelandic crime fiction. … fresh and unique. I can see the threads of the series and it’s definately a series i want to return to.

THEBOOKTRAIL.COM, UK

Would I recommend this book? Ab-so-friggin-lutely! Deceit is a compelling mystery full of secrets & lies that had me guessing right up until the end!

NOELLE HOLTEN, CRIMEBOOKJUNKIE.CO.UK

It seems there is no limit for how good the Icelandic literature can be. … Deceit is just another example of extraordinary Icelandic writers of crime fiction … I can only hope that more books by Jónína Leósdóttir will be soon published …

WILDWRITINGLIFE.BLOGSPOT.COM, UK

Complex relationships, frighteningly evil crimes and treacherous behaviour await you in the latest crime busting adventure of Soffía and Adam. ... a crime thriller packed with twists, turns and unravelling family ties! ... there is never a dull moment ... a superb story ... exciting and deep characters. ... a story of disturbing crimes and intense investigations. ... A must for fans of Nordic crime novels.

DEAN ASQUITH, EMERALD REVIEWS, UK

…a highly original and satisfying Nordic crime novel with an inimitable protagonist … Deceit is exceedingly clever and confronting, in terms of social commentary. … Leósdóttir effortlessly arrests our attention and yanks us into the story. … Leósdóttir clearly understands the human psyche well … a book you will remember long after reading the last page. It leaves us to wonder how much our upbringing and early years shape our experiences in later life. … a riveting read …

CRIMEFICTIONCRITIC.COM

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Translation rights sold

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