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Two Dead Billionaires
The American billionaire's mangled body was sprawled on the deck of his hotel suite. His throat had been slashed. Thick packets of paper, wet and bloody, erupted from the wound. Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir, of Iceland's National Police Bureau, grimaced. The paper was money. Someone had shoved thousands of dollars, euros, and Icelandic kroner into the throat of a very rich man.
A crime like that—and a victim like that—would be shocking anywhere. In placid, peaceful Iceland, it is seismic.
All eyes are on Hekla to solve the case. But the more she learns, the more dangerous her investigation becomes. As she delves deeper, she uncovers a web of corruption that stretches from the trendy streets of Reykjavik to the darkest corners of American prisons.
With pressure mounting from all sides and powerful forces inside her own department threatening her, she realizes that one of the few people she can trust is the prime suspect’s ex-boyfriend: a washed-up, suicidal former FBI whistleblower who doesn’t trust her—and shouldn’t.
Can they get past their mutual suspicion and work together to protect innocent lives? And can they keep their own dark histories from consuming them?
Two Dead Billionaires is a gripping murder mystery and political thriller from Luke Sheldon, an important new voice in the genre. The story spans continents and dives deep into the desolate confines of the human soul. With richly drawn characters, an intricately plotted narrative, and relentless tension, Sheldon's debut novel keeps readers spellbound in a web that tightens with every page.
A crime like that—and a victim like that—would be shocking anywhere. In placid, peaceful Iceland, it is seismic.
All eyes are on Hekla to solve the case. But the more she learns, the more dangerous her investigation becomes. As she delves deeper, she uncovers a web of corruption that stretches from the trendy streets of Reykjavik to the darkest corners of American prisons.
With pressure mounting from all sides and powerful forces inside her own department threatening her, she realizes that one of the few people she can trust is the prime suspect’s ex-boyfriend: a washed-up, suicidal former FBI whistleblower who doesn’t trust her—and shouldn’t.
Can they get past their mutual suspicion and work together to protect innocent lives? And can they keep their own dark histories from consuming them?
Two Dead Billionaires is a gripping murder mystery and political thriller from Luke Sheldon, an important new voice in the genre. The story spans continents and dives deep into the desolate confines of the human soul. With richly drawn characters, an intricately plotted narrative, and relentless tension, Sheldon's debut novel keeps readers spellbound in a web that tightens with every page.
- GenresMystery ThrillerMystery
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2024
42 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Luke Patrick Sheldon
1 book9 followersLUKE PATRICK SHELDON is a writer, visual artist, and attorney. He studied politics at New York University and earned his J.D. from the Columbus School of Law at Catholic University. He lives in Los Angeles, California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 3, 2024
Another dark and twisted story you won’t be able to put down.
When a tech billionaire is found dead in his hotel room, detective Hekla Fritzdóttir is pulled into an intricate and dangerous case. Some people will do anything to keep her from discovering the truth.
If you love crime thrillers focused on corruption, conspiracy theories, that are set in a political web, then you will love this book.
What I loved about this one was that as the story progressed so did the suspense. The danger felt like it was closing in on the characters. A claustrophobic type of read. And you can never go wrong with a kick-ass female main character.
This is an engaging read that will hypnotize you. I seriously do not know how I finished reading this one as fast as I did. Genius plotting with extraordinary writing, this book pulls you into its world.
(Read last month but just now getting to the review)
Seriously give this book a shot because I don’t think you’ll be let down.
When a tech billionaire is found dead in his hotel room, detective Hekla Fritzdóttir is pulled into an intricate and dangerous case. Some people will do anything to keep her from discovering the truth.
If you love crime thrillers focused on corruption, conspiracy theories, that are set in a political web, then you will love this book.
What I loved about this one was that as the story progressed so did the suspense. The danger felt like it was closing in on the characters. A claustrophobic type of read. And you can never go wrong with a kick-ass female main character.
This is an engaging read that will hypnotize you. I seriously do not know how I finished reading this one as fast as I did. Genius plotting with extraordinary writing, this book pulls you into its world.
(Read last month but just now getting to the review)
Seriously give this book a shot because I don’t think you’ll be let down.
June 19, 2024
I wrote this book. Trust me, I'm not here trying to game the system or compromise the legitimacy of the goodreads review system, I just genuinely cannot figure out how this [censored] site functions. I mean [censored]. Anyway, the book is really, really good. Dare I say, fantastic? I dare. It's a nordic noir, mystery thriller—actually, I am completely unable to write blurbs, loglines, or hype sentences anymore, so I'll just put what another reviewer wrote below. This is a 100% accurate description of the novel in my opinion. Please do not report me.
Author approved summary:
"An exquisitely layered Nordic noir novel that masterfully weaves edge-of-your seat suspense with incisive social commentary. Bold and brilliant, this compelling debut thriller captivates readers in a tautly told story while exploring fundamental questions about human nature."
- Luke
Author approved summary:
"An exquisitely layered Nordic noir novel that masterfully weaves edge-of-your seat suspense with incisive social commentary. Bold and brilliant, this compelling debut thriller captivates readers in a tautly told story while exploring fundamental questions about human nature."
- Luke
August 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
May 31, 2024
“Two Dead Billionaires” by Luke Patrick Sheldon is set in a country rarely featured in a murder mystery: Iceland. Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir of the National Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case of her life, the gruesome murder of Jack Drumman, an American billionaire, in Iceland’s most luxurious hotel. The investigation soon unearths a dangerous conspiracy that involves various people in powerful positions and the suspense intensifies when Steingrímur Eggertsson, Iceland’s wealthiest citizen, is the second billionaire killed.
Murder cases are rare in Iceland and both of these cases seem to be related, yet few in the department want to investigate further. So, Hekla has no choice but to reach out to August Sorenson. He is the prime suspect’s ex-boyfriend and a cynical, suicidal former FBI whistleblower who trusts no one. He does not want to get involved because every time he tries to help, someone ends up dead. To catch the killer, they need to work together despite their deep mistrust of each other and overcome their dark, troubled past.
In “Two Dead Billionaires,” Luke Patrick Sheldon introduces readers to multidimensional characters who, though deeply flawed, still manage to get through each day. Hekla Fritzdóttir still grieves for her brother who was a big influence in her life and despite all she has been through, she puts those feelings aside to do her job as a detective. August Sorenson is a former lawyer who used to work with the American embassy and became involved with Aldis Eva, the main suspect in the case. That relationship eventually led to a client’s death, and more along the way, so he is now off the grid, depressed, and suicidal. The opportunity to help Hekla with the investigation helps him feel useful again.
I was drawn to this novel because it’s a murder mystery, it takes place in Iceland, and I wanted to read about how the police there would handle crime scenes and investigations. The opening sentence instantly hooked me in:
It was grisly.
The next few paragraphs describe the grisly and unique crime scene and how the detectives are overwhelmed and unprepared to investigate it because they seldom see murders, especially in the fanciest suite of the Azure Spa and Hotel.
This exciting novel is not just a murder mystery, it expertly combines politics, conspiracy theories, love, power, and revenge to create a unique storyline. It is highly character-driven because the characters are deeply developed and relatable. Even their actions are exquisitely described:
She let a stream of air pass forcefully through her nostrils, but then tilted her head and opened her eyes, signaling to Gunnar to let the men pass.
August starts off as a suicidal loose cannon and ends up being a major player in the story. The investigation is riveting, and the plot twists keep you guessing until the very end when the culprit is revealed. Chapter 2 is especially noteworthy because it explains in detail exactly how Jack’s murder was planned and executed.
Overall, “Two Dead Billionaires” by Luke Patrick Sheldon is the thrilling murder mystery of two powerful and rich men that upends a peaceful community and reveals an elaborate plot of vengeance. It is recommended for readers who enjoy international murder mysteries with appealing, yet flawed characters.
First, his legs gave out, and he stumbled to the floor. Next, his hearing went. Bjarni’s furious shouts transformed to mere outlines in the air. Finally [his] lungs stopped working. His lips parted but no air came in or out. The only organs that still functioned properly were his eyes, and he would have given anything for them to be as broken as the rest of him.
Murder cases are rare in Iceland and both of these cases seem to be related, yet few in the department want to investigate further. So, Hekla has no choice but to reach out to August Sorenson. He is the prime suspect’s ex-boyfriend and a cynical, suicidal former FBI whistleblower who trusts no one. He does not want to get involved because every time he tries to help, someone ends up dead. To catch the killer, they need to work together despite their deep mistrust of each other and overcome their dark, troubled past.
In “Two Dead Billionaires,” Luke Patrick Sheldon introduces readers to multidimensional characters who, though deeply flawed, still manage to get through each day. Hekla Fritzdóttir still grieves for her brother who was a big influence in her life and despite all she has been through, she puts those feelings aside to do her job as a detective. August Sorenson is a former lawyer who used to work with the American embassy and became involved with Aldis Eva, the main suspect in the case. That relationship eventually led to a client’s death, and more along the way, so he is now off the grid, depressed, and suicidal. The opportunity to help Hekla with the investigation helps him feel useful again.
I was drawn to this novel because it’s a murder mystery, it takes place in Iceland, and I wanted to read about how the police there would handle crime scenes and investigations. The opening sentence instantly hooked me in:
It was grisly.
The next few paragraphs describe the grisly and unique crime scene and how the detectives are overwhelmed and unprepared to investigate it because they seldom see murders, especially in the fanciest suite of the Azure Spa and Hotel.
This exciting novel is not just a murder mystery, it expertly combines politics, conspiracy theories, love, power, and revenge to create a unique storyline. It is highly character-driven because the characters are deeply developed and relatable. Even their actions are exquisitely described:
She let a stream of air pass forcefully through her nostrils, but then tilted her head and opened her eyes, signaling to Gunnar to let the men pass.
August starts off as a suicidal loose cannon and ends up being a major player in the story. The investigation is riveting, and the plot twists keep you guessing until the very end when the culprit is revealed. Chapter 2 is especially noteworthy because it explains in detail exactly how Jack’s murder was planned and executed.
Overall, “Two Dead Billionaires” by Luke Patrick Sheldon is the thrilling murder mystery of two powerful and rich men that upends a peaceful community and reveals an elaborate plot of vengeance. It is recommended for readers who enjoy international murder mysteries with appealing, yet flawed characters.
First, his legs gave out, and he stumbled to the floor. Next, his hearing went. Bjarni’s furious shouts transformed to mere outlines in the air. Finally [his] lungs stopped working. His lips parted but no air came in or out. The only organs that still functioned properly were his eyes, and he would have given anything for them to be as broken as the rest of him.
Read
September 6, 2024American billionaire, Jack Drumman, was viciously murdered at a luxurious hotel in Iceland and Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir is tasked with solving the case.
Her investigation leads her to a tangled web of greed, corruption and a deeply rooted conspiracy that has the potential to affect her nation.
Two Dead Billionaires was a cross between a political thriller and a mystery novel, and the complex storyline kept me guessing from start to finish.
TW: attempted suicide + suicidal ideation
Read if you like:
✨Politics
✨Complex storylines
✨Corruption
Thank you to Luke Sheldon for being so kind as to send me a copy of your book.
Her investigation leads her to a tangled web of greed, corruption and a deeply rooted conspiracy that has the potential to affect her nation.
Two Dead Billionaires was a cross between a political thriller and a mystery novel, and the complex storyline kept me guessing from start to finish.
TW: attempted suicide + suicidal ideation
Read if you like:
✨Politics
✨Complex storylines
✨Corruption
Thank you to Luke Sheldon for being so kind as to send me a copy of your book.
August 1, 2024
Author’s writing is flawless and compelling. The book is gripping, dark and suspenseful. This is about Two billionaires. The death of an american billionaire is gruesome and mysterious. The truth is even more twisted and shocking. This is a kind of book which will keep you on the edge of your seat. The plot is clever and there are intricate details. As the story progresses, truth and secrets unveils with unthinkable happenings. Truth is hidden behind the layers of mystery, unsettling past, power and deceit. The setting of Iceland is pretty good. The investigation is spot on and it’s a brilliant whodunnit.
Thanks to the Author
Thanks to the Author
June 25, 2024
With "Two Dead Billionaires," Luke Sheldon has delivered a debut novel with a whole lot to love. It’s a compelling, well-told story with surprising twists, intense suspense, interesting characters, and – get this – a message.
It’s also a whole lot of fun.
Most of the action takes place in Iceland, one of the most beautiful places in the world, and part of the plot revolves around an international conspiracy to take advantage of that country. The book has some pretty gnarly murders, plenty of intrigue, and some smart character development.
The three main characters, police Det. Hekla Rafney Fritzdottir, journalist-turned-politician Aldis Eva, and anxiety-racked former FBI lawyer August Sorenson, are well-rounded and complex. The supporting characters are well-drawn, just the right amount of quirky, and very much their own people.
This is a Nordic noir, so there’s some dark stuff in it (see “pretty gnarly murders” above). It’s also a whodunnit and a whydunit with international intrigue, sharp social commentary, and strong writing.
"Two Dead Billionaires" is told in three sections, and Sheldon gets the pacing just right, with tension building section by section, chapter by chapter.
The ending is satisfying, with just enough ambiguity that it leaves room for a sequel (or two). I’m looking forward to it (or them).
It’s also a whole lot of fun.
Most of the action takes place in Iceland, one of the most beautiful places in the world, and part of the plot revolves around an international conspiracy to take advantage of that country. The book has some pretty gnarly murders, plenty of intrigue, and some smart character development.
The three main characters, police Det. Hekla Rafney Fritzdottir, journalist-turned-politician Aldis Eva, and anxiety-racked former FBI lawyer August Sorenson, are well-rounded and complex. The supporting characters are well-drawn, just the right amount of quirky, and very much their own people.
This is a Nordic noir, so there’s some dark stuff in it (see “pretty gnarly murders” above). It’s also a whodunnit and a whydunit with international intrigue, sharp social commentary, and strong writing.
"Two Dead Billionaires" is told in three sections, and Sheldon gets the pacing just right, with tension building section by section, chapter by chapter.
The ending is satisfying, with just enough ambiguity that it leaves room for a sequel (or two). I’m looking forward to it (or them).
June 28, 2024
Book name: "Two Dead Billionaires"
Author :by Luke Sheldon @lpsheldon
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
My thoughts:
I picked up "Two Dead Billionaires" primarily because of its intriguing title, despite not being a fan of political fiction. The book's name and the gripping introduction caught my attention, and I was not disappointed. This novel is brilliant, and I'm stunned by the author's extensive knowledge and detailed storytelling.
Luke Sheldon expertly unravels the story step by step, seamlessly revealing the past and present. The characters of Hekla, August, Aldis and Gunnar are exceptionally well-written, each bringing depth and authenticity to the narrative. August, in particular, gave me vibes reminiscent of Agatha Christie's Poirot, adding a classic detective charm to the story. I was emotionally invested in the relationship between August and Aldis, which added a poignant layer to the plot.
And The last few chapters had my heart racing and my nails bitten down, as the tension ramped up to a satisfying conclusion that made me both cry and laugh. The ending was emotionally impactful, providing a perfect closure to an intense narrative.
This story is something special, lingering in my mind long after I finished reading.
I'm giving this book 4.5 stars. The only minor drawbacks were the challenge of navigating Icelandic names and a feeling that the story could have been a bit shorter with crisper editing. However, these issues did not detract significantly from my overall enjoyment.
The book features spine-chilling murders, thrilling chases, and intense investigations and interrogations. Trigger warnings include murders and gay romance, which are integral to the plot.Overall, I loved every character, especially August, Hekla, and Gunnar.
Overall, "Two Dead Billionaires" is a fresh, brilliantly written thriller that kept me captivated from start to finish. It’s not easy to write a story like this, and Luke Sheldon has done a remarkable job. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a gripping and thought-provoking read.
I would like to thank the author @lpsheldon for the ARC copy of the book and congratulate him on creating such a great novel.🙏
Author :by Luke Sheldon @lpsheldon
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
My thoughts:
I picked up "Two Dead Billionaires" primarily because of its intriguing title, despite not being a fan of political fiction. The book's name and the gripping introduction caught my attention, and I was not disappointed. This novel is brilliant, and I'm stunned by the author's extensive knowledge and detailed storytelling.
Luke Sheldon expertly unravels the story step by step, seamlessly revealing the past and present. The characters of Hekla, August, Aldis and Gunnar are exceptionally well-written, each bringing depth and authenticity to the narrative. August, in particular, gave me vibes reminiscent of Agatha Christie's Poirot, adding a classic detective charm to the story. I was emotionally invested in the relationship between August and Aldis, which added a poignant layer to the plot.
And The last few chapters had my heart racing and my nails bitten down, as the tension ramped up to a satisfying conclusion that made me both cry and laugh. The ending was emotionally impactful, providing a perfect closure to an intense narrative.
This story is something special, lingering in my mind long after I finished reading.
I'm giving this book 4.5 stars. The only minor drawbacks were the challenge of navigating Icelandic names and a feeling that the story could have been a bit shorter with crisper editing. However, these issues did not detract significantly from my overall enjoyment.
The book features spine-chilling murders, thrilling chases, and intense investigations and interrogations. Trigger warnings include murders and gay romance, which are integral to the plot.Overall, I loved every character, especially August, Hekla, and Gunnar.
Overall, "Two Dead Billionaires" is a fresh, brilliantly written thriller that kept me captivated from start to finish. It’s not easy to write a story like this, and Luke Sheldon has done a remarkable job. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a gripping and thought-provoking read.
I would like to thank the author @lpsheldon for the ARC copy of the book and congratulate him on creating such a great novel.🙏
August 23, 2024
𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
First off, this is set in Iceland-which I absolutely love! An American billionaire, Jack Drumman, is found dead in Iceland’s most ritziest and luxurious hotel…and Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir of the National Bureau of Investigation is determined to find out who killed him and why. Jack Drumman is not the only billionaire to end up dead, because soon after the discovery of Drumman’s body another billionaire’s dead body is discovered. This book centers around money, riches, power and conspiracy. Sheldon builds the suspense and anticipation throughout the book as we follow detective Hekla as she stops at nothing to get to the bottom of the murders.
I love the characters, especially Hekla, and Sheldon does a fantastic job with the character development and creating deeply flawed characters that draw the reader in. Sheldon paints a corrupted world set in Iceland and takes the reader on a game of cat-and-mouse which makes for a fantastically gripping and compelling ‘whodunit’. This book is suspenseful, dark, gruesome, twisted, and had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what would happen next.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗜𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆:
✦Murder mystery books
✦A fantastic ‘whodunit'
✦Books set in Iceland
✦A unique plot
✦Flawed characters
✦Dark, suspenseful, gruesome, and twisted books
𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4/5
First off, this is set in Iceland-which I absolutely love! An American billionaire, Jack Drumman, is found dead in Iceland’s most ritziest and luxurious hotel…and Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir of the National Bureau of Investigation is determined to find out who killed him and why. Jack Drumman is not the only billionaire to end up dead, because soon after the discovery of Drumman’s body another billionaire’s dead body is discovered. This book centers around money, riches, power and conspiracy. Sheldon builds the suspense and anticipation throughout the book as we follow detective Hekla as she stops at nothing to get to the bottom of the murders.
I love the characters, especially Hekla, and Sheldon does a fantastic job with the character development and creating deeply flawed characters that draw the reader in. Sheldon paints a corrupted world set in Iceland and takes the reader on a game of cat-and-mouse which makes for a fantastically gripping and compelling ‘whodunit’. This book is suspenseful, dark, gruesome, twisted, and had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what would happen next.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗜𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆:
✦Murder mystery books
✦A fantastic ‘whodunit'
✦Books set in Iceland
✦A unique plot
✦Flawed characters
✦Dark, suspenseful, gruesome, and twisted books
𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4/5
November 6, 2024
The captivating novel Two Dead Billionaires by Luke Patrick Sheldon opens with a crime scene which is exceptional for two reasons: it is outlandishly grisly, and it features what will be the first murder to be investigated in the nation of Iceland in over three years. The no-nonsense Hekla Rafney Fritzdóttir leads the case, and her best hope of solving the accompanying mystery is by working with August, the timidly eccentric ex-boyfriend of the woman who is quickly established as the primary suspect. This story, often reminiscent of the Lisbeth Salander series, is fast-paced and absolutely captivating (and hard to discuss in detail without giving spoilers). Unlike most thriller writers, Sheldon’s greatest strength as an author lies not in his plot formation but in his character development. Hekla, for example, appears to be at least loosely based on Mariska’s Hargitay’s Olivia Benson from Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, and she is one of the most admirable and well-rounded literary figures I have encountered in years. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I can’t wait to see more of Sheldon’s work.
November 13, 2024
Why settle for ordinary reads when you can embark on a journey that keeps you on the edge of your seat? Nothing is more satisfying than losing oneself in a page turner.
From the very first page, a chilling scene unfolds before the reader’s eyes. The author paints a picture so vivid the narrative leaps off the page, pulling you into a world of shadowy secrets. As the story progresses, the tension builds, drawing readers deeper. It's a rollercoaster ride, leaving readers engaged as the story unfolds to its thrilling conclusion.
Dive into the dark world of crime and murder, where determined detective Hekla Rafney Fritzdóttir races against the clock to unravel the twisted truth behind the grisly demise of Jack and Steingrímur.
A word of caution: this book delves into the depths of the dark underbelly of crime, containing extremely explicit imagery that may be too much for sensitive readers. For those who can’t wait for something with a little bite, this novel is for you. The author expertly weaves together a thrilling murder mystery in an affluent society set against a rarely explored and breathtakingly beautiful Icelandic landscape.
From the very first page, a chilling scene unfolds before the reader’s eyes. The author paints a picture so vivid the narrative leaps off the page, pulling you into a world of shadowy secrets. As the story progresses, the tension builds, drawing readers deeper. It's a rollercoaster ride, leaving readers engaged as the story unfolds to its thrilling conclusion.
Dive into the dark world of crime and murder, where determined detective Hekla Rafney Fritzdóttir races against the clock to unravel the twisted truth behind the grisly demise of Jack and Steingrímur.
A word of caution: this book delves into the depths of the dark underbelly of crime, containing extremely explicit imagery that may be too much for sensitive readers. For those who can’t wait for something with a little bite, this novel is for you. The author expertly weaves together a thrilling murder mystery in an affluent society set against a rarely explored and breathtakingly beautiful Icelandic landscape.
June 29, 2024
Brilliant I heard about this through social media and the reviews were not lying. I thought it was outstanding. I love how the author layers the past and the present in a way that adds depth but also increases the suspense and tension. The mystery is great, the characters are well-rounded and their motivations make sense, and the story had me hooked. I also really love how this is a murder-mystery/thriller type of novel with that edge-of-your-seat quality, but also has more to say if you want to look at it that way. It has depth, so it’s fun and exciting, but explores and touches on stuff that I honestly thought were pretty profound at some point. So it’s cool to finally read a mystery thriller that has something bigger to say. It’s the type of book that will stick with me for a while. I think that everyone who likes these types of novels (and really, everyone honestly) should read this.
September 14, 2024
Two Dead Billionaires opens with a murder and it continues packing a thrilling punch for the rest of the time. Murders in Iceland are not often heard of and you know it’s going to be a ride when the person who was murdered is American.
There are a handful of characters we get to know in this book: Hekla - a doubting detective, Aldís - activist and journalist, August - suicidal former FBI lawyer among others.
This book touches on social justice issues and corruption and power and greed and keeps you guessing on the “whodunnit” the entire time. It is broken up into parts and part 3 especially had me absolutely on the edge of my seat learning so many answers to questions and theories I had in the first 2/3 of the book.
It is insane to me that this is a DEBUT novel. It is so well edited and written and completely stunning. I’m normally a horror and extreme horror reader and this dark psychological twisty political thriller had my heart racing!
Happy reading 📖
There are a handful of characters we get to know in this book: Hekla - a doubting detective, Aldís - activist and journalist, August - suicidal former FBI lawyer among others.
This book touches on social justice issues and corruption and power and greed and keeps you guessing on the “whodunnit” the entire time. It is broken up into parts and part 3 especially had me absolutely on the edge of my seat learning so many answers to questions and theories I had in the first 2/3 of the book.
It is insane to me that this is a DEBUT novel. It is so well edited and written and completely stunning. I’m normally a horror and extreme horror reader and this dark psychological twisty political thriller had my heart racing!
Happy reading 📖
November 6, 2024
I recently finished reading this book, and I must say it was a thrilling ride from start to finish! The book starts with a shocking crime scene: an American billionaire found dead with money stuffed into his slashed throat. I was immediately drawn into the mystery. Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir of Iceland's National Police Bureau takes on the case, and as she digs deeper, the story unfolds into a web of corruption and danger that spans continents. I felt the tension build with each page, and the well-developed and richly drawn characters, like the washed-up former FBI whistleblower, added so much depth to the narrative. Sheldon's writing is sharp and engaging, making it easy to get lost in the world he creates. I particularly enjoyed the way the author weaves together different storylines, creating a rich tapestry that kept me guessing until the very end. This book is a truly compelling read that I would highly recommend to anyone who loves a good mystery!
Read
January 5, 2025disclaimer: I don’t really give starred reviews. I hope my reviews provide enough information to let you know if a book is for you or not. Find me here: https://linktr.ee/bookishmillennial
This was a gripping, un-put-downable murder mystery set in Iceland! It centers around three main characters, Hekla, Aldis, and August. This is classified as Nordic noir, which I was unfamiliar with, but really enjoyed! I was definitely intrigued by the very clever social commentary, even though I am unfamiliar with Icelandic culture and current events. I typically feel sort of lost when there are multiple main characters, but I felt like the author gave each of these characters such distinct journeys and motivations.
Overall, I had a great time reading this, was pleasantly surprised by the twists and turns, and am looking forward to what Luke Patrick Sheldon does next :)
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence and Murder
Minor: Sexual content
This was a gripping, un-put-downable murder mystery set in Iceland! It centers around three main characters, Hekla, Aldis, and August. This is classified as Nordic noir, which I was unfamiliar with, but really enjoyed! I was definitely intrigued by the very clever social commentary, even though I am unfamiliar with Icelandic culture and current events. I typically feel sort of lost when there are multiple main characters, but I felt like the author gave each of these characters such distinct journeys and motivations.
Overall, I had a great time reading this, was pleasantly surprised by the twists and turns, and am looking forward to what Luke Patrick Sheldon does next :)
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence and Murder
Minor: Sexual content
November 5, 2024
The book's setting in Iceland adds unique character, with its rugged landscapes and cultural nuances enhancing the crime genre. Sheldon uses this environment to enrich the atmosphere, immersing readers in Reykjavik alongside Hekla. The novel builds tension with each chapter, unveiling new intrigue and danger. Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir is a compelling protagonist, known for her tenacity, and relentless pursuit of the truth.
It is a gripping page-turner that will enthrall crime and mystery literature enthusiasts. Luke Sheldon has crafted a suspenseful tale, featuring vividly developed characters and a plot that unfolds with surprising twists. This book comes highly recommended for anyone who loves a captivating detective story infused with international intrigue.
It is a gripping page-turner that will enthrall crime and mystery literature enthusiasts. Luke Sheldon has crafted a suspenseful tale, featuring vividly developed characters and a plot that unfolds with surprising twists. This book comes highly recommended for anyone who loves a captivating detective story infused with international intrigue.
October 28, 2024
This crime novel has no shortage of twists and turns. Hekla Fritzdottir, decorated Icelandic detective, has the case of her life to deal with. An American billionaire was found murdered in his hotel room, and it sets off a chain of events that the detective could never have imagined. It will take all her impressive sleuthing abilities to crack this case that has stakes even higher than they first appear to be.
Reminiscent of the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series, learning about this detective and her life is just as fascinating as the case that has sucked her in. Both a political thriller and a murder mystery, this is one of the finest crime novels in recent memory.
Reminiscent of the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series, learning about this detective and her life is just as fascinating as the case that has sucked her in. Both a political thriller and a murder mystery, this is one of the finest crime novels in recent memory.
November 5, 2024
Seismic is a dark and atmospheric thriller that takes readers from Iceland’s quiet streets to the murky corridors of power across the Atlantic. Detective Hekla faces mounting danger as she uncovers corruption linked to a shocking crime, leaving her with few allies. The narrative shines with its vivid setting and complex characters, especially Hekla, who must navigate betrayal within her own department. Her unlikely alliance with a troubled former FBI agent adds depth and tension to the story. Fast-paced and intricately plotted, Seismic is a must-read for fans of international crime fiction and suspense.
November 5, 2024
Luke Sheldon wrote a wonderful book. This book was full of twists and turns. I liked how the Heckla went through trying to solve the mystery of the two dead billionaires. She went through all sorts of things including discovering corruption throughout the story. I love how the author brought the characters together to add to the plot of twists and turns.
Luke Sheldon the author did a great job writing this book and researching it. I hope to hear more from him. I also would recommend this book give the chance to others.
I give this a 5-star rating. The author did a great job. I couldn't put this book down till I was finished with hope. I definitely hope to read more from the author.
Luke Sheldon the author did a great job writing this book and researching it. I hope to hear more from him. I also would recommend this book give the chance to others.
I give this a 5-star rating. The author did a great job. I couldn't put this book down till I was finished with hope. I definitely hope to read more from the author.
November 5, 2024
In, Two Dead Billionaires, Luke Patrick Sheldon delivers a captivating mystery that unravels the complexities of wealth, power, and betrayal. The story begins with the shocking deaths of two billionaires, sparking a whirlwind of intrigue as investigators delve into their dark pasts and the secrets they left behind. Sheldon’s sharp prose and well-drawn characters keep readers engaged, blending suspense with a critique of the excesses of the ultra-rich. The plot twists are unexpected, and the pacing is spot-on, making it hard to put down. This novel is a thrilling read for fans of crime fiction and mystery enthusiasts alike.
November 5, 2024
Two Dead Billionaires by Luke Patrick Sheldon is a great mystery that kept me engaged right from beginning to end. It follows a sharp investigator, Hekla, probing the puzzling deaths of two billionaires, unraveling a dark web of power and corruption. The character development is exceptional, adding depth and making you genuinely care about their journeys. Hekla is a strong lead and creates a powerful image of tenacity and not giving up. I love the setting in Iceland, which enhances the story’s intrigue and atmosphere. Sheldon’s crisp writing and balanced pacing bring each scene vividly to life, pulling you in, and making this thriller a fresh, intense, and must-read addition to the genre.
November 5, 2024
This book brings together all the elements that make a story compelling: an exotic Icelandic setting, mystery with touches of social critique, and deeply complex characters. The suspense builds with each page, and the potential for a sequel adds to the anticipation. The partnership between Hekla and August, a former FBI agent haunted by his past, brings an intense and unexpected dynamic to the investigation. Luke Sheldon masterfully balances suspense and twists, delivering a read that both entertains and provokes thought. The ending is satisfying and still leaves room for a possible sequel—something I would certainly read. For those who love a dark, gripping mystery, I highly recommend it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2024
This actually felt like a fresh take for the murder mystery and political thriller genre. With a gripping introduction, this book certainly kept me on the edge of my seat, and gave our detective Hekla a lot to investigate. I also enjoyed the setting in Iceland, it's something different for once. The tension is relentless, and the dark exploration of human souls can be quite intense but I think it's what makes this novel unique. The main characters are quite complex and their dynamic makes their already tense situation even more interesting. With its richly developed characters, intricate plotting, and gripping tension, it is a must-read. I hope we get to see more stories like this.
November 7, 2024
When I started reading Two Dead Billionaires, I wasn't sure what to expect but this book delivered an amazing story filled with incredible characters, filled with twists and turns on top of being an exceptional enjoyable journey. There are people out there who will be able to relate to some of the events and that's the beauty of this amazing book. I was instantly gripped from the first page all the way to the last and thats a credit to the author for being a good storyteller. I absolutely enjoyed reading this lovely story and I highly recommend anyone who wants something wonderful to read over the coming holidays to pick this up.
November 7, 2024
Nordic Noir Thriller
"Two Dead Billionaires" is a gripping debut that masterfully blends murder mystery and political intrigue against the stunning backdrop of Iceland. The story follows Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir as she investigates the shocking murders of two billionaires, unraveling a web of conspiracy and deceit. Sheldon’s characters are richly developed, particularly Hekla and her troubled ally, August Sorenson, whose personal demons add depth to the narrative. With sharp prose and relentless pacing, the novel keeps readers on edge, revealing unexpected twists until the very end. This is a must-read for fans of Nordic noir and thrilling mysteries.
"Two Dead Billionaires" is a gripping debut that masterfully blends murder mystery and political intrigue against the stunning backdrop of Iceland. The story follows Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir as she investigates the shocking murders of two billionaires, unraveling a web of conspiracy and deceit. Sheldon’s characters are richly developed, particularly Hekla and her troubled ally, August Sorenson, whose personal demons add depth to the narrative. With sharp prose and relentless pacing, the novel keeps readers on edge, revealing unexpected twists until the very end. This is a must-read for fans of Nordic noir and thrilling mysteries.
November 8, 2024
A powerful novel!
“Two Dead Billionaires” by Luke Sheldon is a powerful and disturbing novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page. The book is simply a testament to Sheldon’s skill as a writer and his ability to craft compelling and unforgettable characters like Hekla. Though the plot is relatively straightforward, the psychological explorations by the author make the work a stand out among its contemporaries. Through both intimate and detached narrative style, the author succeeds in creating a haunting effect to draw the readers into the character’s mind even while maintaining a critical distance.
“Two Dead Billionaires” by Luke Sheldon is a powerful and disturbing novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page. The book is simply a testament to Sheldon’s skill as a writer and his ability to craft compelling and unforgettable characters like Hekla. Though the plot is relatively straightforward, the psychological explorations by the author make the work a stand out among its contemporaries. Through both intimate and detached narrative style, the author succeeds in creating a haunting effect to draw the readers into the character’s mind even while maintaining a critical distance.
November 5, 2024
The debut novel "Two Dead Billionaires," written by Luke Sheldon, has a lot to love. It's a gripping, skilfully written tale with unexpected turns, high tension, engaging characters, and—get this: a message. Additionally, it's a tonne of fun. Part of the plot centres on a multinational conspiracy to exploit Iceland, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, where the most of the action takes place. The book is full of intrigue, clever character development, and some rather gory killings.
November 6, 2024
This book is a thrilling and suspenseful read that goes into the world of wealth, betrayal, and power. The book follows the mysterious death of two billionaires. The author's writing is fast-paced and engaging. I always enjoy trying to figure out the answers, and I didn’t even see it coming. I liked the character development of this book. The author sheds light on the darkness that wealth could lead to. Since he touches on the theme of greed it elevates the story past your typical murder mystery. The way the story unfolds challenges readers to think about wealth and ambition.
November 6, 2024
The Nordic setting for this book instantly makes it more interesting in my eyes. It might be a fault that I have personally, but I love when stories have incredibly scenic backdrops as you could just imagine each new location in the book. The entertainment value was high, as there are some pretty serious murders at play in this story, and the characters are extremely well-rounded. I found myself latching on to each one for their own specific quirks, and by the end, I could not decide who I liked more! That is the sign of a well-written story. Can't wait to read the sequel!
November 9, 2024
Very well written and immersive.
An exhilarating ride from start to finish, the story kicks off with a chilling crime scene. Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir from Iceland’s National Police Bureau takes on the investigation, unraveling a complex web of corruption and international intrigue. The characters are richly developed. Sheldon’s writing is immersive, keeping the suspense high and the twists unexpected. With its compelling storylines and unpredictable ending, this is a must read for mystery lovers.
An exhilarating ride from start to finish, the story kicks off with a chilling crime scene. Detective Hekla Fritzdóttir from Iceland’s National Police Bureau takes on the investigation, unraveling a complex web of corruption and international intrigue. The characters are richly developed. Sheldon’s writing is immersive, keeping the suspense high and the twists unexpected. With its compelling storylines and unpredictable ending, this is a must read for mystery lovers.
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