The Lake (2016)

“… The Lake is a remarkable work … The story starts off lightly, but gradually the dread builds up, and there’s so much tension in the air that the reader almost feels as heart-stricken as the protagonist. Gerdur Kristny creates a unique atmosphere in The Lake.”

“Gerdur creates an atmosphere that makes one half-delusional... immensely well structured and written... an extremely successful novel.”

“It is not easy to explain why this story is so transfixing, because the events are not fast-paced or driven by a thrilling storyline, and in reality not much happens until the end. However, the author is able to awaken the feeling, little by little, that something more is simmering below the surface than the subdued text would suggest... this feeling that there is more to the story increases over time, and the book could be likened to a pot of water that takes a long time to boil. The final third of the story is almost an inversion of the beginning. A regular late-summer car ride turns into a horrific tragedy which is so delicately woven that it never becomes physical or grotesque, but works solely in the mind. Therein lies the book’s magic – the author achieves this effect through artistically restrained writing that flows smoothly, but leaves much to be considered. A few days after reading, the story seemed to continue its effect – one’s mind is drawn to the mother and daughter in the cabin, the natural beauty of Þingvallavatn, and the darkness that cannot be escaped at summer’s end.”

“The Lake is an outstanding psychological thriller, even for those who don’t usually read thrillers. This is firmly within the realm of realism, which only makes it all the more unsettling. ... From the very beginning, you can sense the discomfort, the atmosphere that forms the backdrop for the story. ... It is an exceptional read, and here’s a free tip – remember to breathe. And remember to read between the lines. The Lake is a quietly well-told drama that leaves you unsure of where it will take you.”