Sweden’s affinity for gripping dark literature emerges from its snow-shrouded landscapes and vast, frozen forests. Delve into the captivating world of 6 thrilling novels, where the pristine snow serves as a cover for the most sinister crimes.
For crime fiction: stark landscapes that foster enigma and a seemingly idyllic society, but one that disguises a deeply dysfunctional underbelly. More than a literary genre, “Nordic noir” serves as a reflection of Swedish society, scrutinising its core with fervent criticism.
Interested in traveling to Sweden?
Here are some
articles
to learn more about
this Nordic country:
-
Here’s a suggested 6-day itinerary for a road trip through Sweden that combines nature and culture:
Day 1: Stockholm to Sigtuna
Begin your journey in the charming old town of Stockholm, the country’s capital. Visit the stunning Vasa Museum, which houses a 17th-century warship, and explore the picturesque Old Town (Gamla Stan) before heading to the historical town of Sigtuna, the oldest town in Sweden, dating back to 970 AD.
Day 2: Sigtuna to Mora
Drive to Mora (approx. 4 hours), a small village famous for its beautiful lake district, forests, and traditional Swedish architecture. Visit the Emån River, Lake Mora, and try your hand at traditional Swedish crafts.
Day 3: Mora to Abisko
Head to the northwest coast and spend the day in the stunning mountain landscapes of Abisko National Park. You can hike to the Kungsleden (King’s Trail) or enjoy scenic views of Lake Torneträsk. In the evening, granite mountains surround you.
Day 4: Abisko
Spend the day hiking to the stunning views surrounding Abisko, exploring mountains and valleys, indulge in outdoor activities, or visit the Abisko Mountains and observe wildlife.
Day 5: Abisko to Skellefteå
Drive to the westcoast (approx. 6 hours), and explore the beautiful Skellefte River and the Sundsgebirge region. Try your hand at hiking, biking or paragliding.
Day 6:Skellefteå
You could do all sorts of fun activities by Skellefte River like fishing, rafting or leisurely strolls.
-
Discover the charm of Sweden’s lesser-known villages and towns during the summer months.
-
Sweden: Unveiling its most breathtaking UNESCO-designated attractions to visit now
by Stieg Larsson
In 2005, Stieg Larsson was behind a major literary phenomenon: a groundbreaking work that exposed the dark underbelly of Swedish society, revealing deep-seated issues of sexism, racism, and corruption.
by Camilla Läckberg
This novel explores the story of Erica Falck, a writer who returns to her hometown after her parents’ death, and Patrik Hedström, a meticulous police officer. Their lives intersect when the body of Erica’s childhood friend Alexandra is discovered in a frozen lake.
by Henning Mankell
In “Sidney Sheldon’s a Stranger on the Memorial (1991)”, a violent crime sets off a far-reaching examination of Sweden’s cultural shift. The mention of “foreigner” kindles xenophobic sentiments in a countryside community, as Detective Wallander, grappling with his own personal struggles, seeks to distinguish fact from fiction.
by Lars Kepler
A shocking family murder forces psychiatrist Erik Maria Bark to revisit his aversion to hypnotherapy as he attempts to uncover the painful memories of a traumatized adolescent. However, this unorthodox technique unleashes a complex chain of events that blur the lines between truth and the therapist’s own troubled past, ultimately plunging him into a harrowing journey through the darkest recesses of human psychological turmoil.
by Åsa Larsson
Lawyer Rebecka Martinsson begins investigating the murder of a well-known spiritual leader. Tensions rise as the community’s faith is shaken, and suspicions initially focus on her. A suspicious, foreboding environment, influenced by fervent religious beliefs, shapes the unfolding storyline.
by Camilla Grebe
The 2015 film seamlessly shifts between the three main perspectives, gradually disclosing their deepest secrets as the narrative unfolds. Grebe excels in crafting a riveting atmosphere, making thought-provoking connections between human connections and past scars.
