This novel is a classic thriller but set in Iceland. The cover evokes the desolation and emptiness. The place and characters are clearly described and the plot weaves through the story, steadily revealing background facts and connections. I have not read a book by this author before and had to concentrate to absorb the unfamiliar names and places but it was certainly well worth the effort. The author kept me guessing who the murderer was right to the end. At various points in the story I was convinced it was one person then another until the reveal in the final stages. This is a very well written and plotted thriller and I will certainly look out for other books by Michael Ridpath in the future