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En perfekt mor
Alle foreldres mareritt blir virkelighet når lille Lucia forsvinner fra sitt første overnattingsbesøk.
Elisa Blix skal til å hente datteren Lucia på skolen i det Lucia blir invitert med hjem til den nye jenta i klassen, Josephine. De to jentene er allerede som erteris, og Josephines mor er tillitvekkende -vakker, velkledd og trivelig. Når hun senere samme ettermiddag ringer og forteller at Lucia gjerne vil sove over, kjører Elisa innom med overnattingsutstyr og konstaterer at alt er som det skal i det hyggelige hjemmet. Hun gir jenta si en nattaklem. Dagen etter er Lucia sporløst forsvunnet.
I “En perfekt mor” gransker Alex Dahl hva som skjer når en tilsynelatende gjennomsnittlig, lykkelig familie, blir kastet ut i en livsomveltende situasjon. Hvem har tatt datteren deres, og hvorfor?
En perfekt mor filmatiseres som TV-serie av Disney+, med planlagt premiere høsten 2024.
Elisa Blix skal til å hente datteren Lucia på skolen i det Lucia blir invitert med hjem til den nye jenta i klassen, Josephine. De to jentene er allerede som erteris, og Josephines mor er tillitvekkende -vakker, velkledd og trivelig. Når hun senere samme ettermiddag ringer og forteller at Lucia gjerne vil sove over, kjører Elisa innom med overnattingsutstyr og konstaterer at alt er som det skal i det hyggelige hjemmet. Hun gir jenta si en nattaklem. Dagen etter er Lucia sporløst forsvunnet.
I “En perfekt mor” gransker Alex Dahl hva som skjer når en tilsynelatende gjennomsnittlig, lykkelig familie, blir kastet ut i en livsomveltende situasjon. Hvem har tatt datteren deres, og hvorfor?
En perfekt mor filmatiseres som TV-serie av Disney+, med planlagt premiere høsten 2024.
435 pages, Hardcover
First published July 9, 2020
561 people are currently reading
4678 people want to read
About the author
Alex Dahl
11 books468 followersHalf-American, half-Norwegian, Alex Dahl was born in Oslo. She graduated with a B.A. in Russian and German linguistics with International Studies and went on to complete an M.A. in Creative Writing at Bath Spa University, followed by an M.S. in Business Management at Bath University. Alex has published short stories in the U.K. and the U.S. She is a serious Francophile and currently lives in both London and Sandefjord. Alex Dahl is translated into eleven languages and was shortlisted for a CWA New Blood Dagger award for The Boy at the Door. The Heart Keeper (2019) is out now in English, Slovak, Polish, and Swedish, with further international translations underway. Playdate was published in Oct 2020 and was a Guardian Thriller of the month pick. Cabin Fever is out now!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 522 reviews
December 10, 2021
Would you allow your 7-year-old daughter to go on an overnight playdate with a family you didn’t know?
No, me either.
But, get past the premise, and this is quite the tense page-turner. Lucia, after being allowed to to spend the night with a classmate, goes missing without a trace.
Told in multiple viewpoints, I found the voice of the kidnapped little girl the least compelling and believable. But it was still a compelling read that had me flipping the pages to see what would happen next. As each chapter unfolds, we are privy to all the lies and deceptions that are taking place. The ending required a bit of a stretch on the part of the reader, but overall, I very much enjoyed the story and will look for more from the author.
June 26, 2020
4.5 stars! Edgy. Gripping. Intense.
This book shook me to the core. It revolves around the abduction of a seven-year-old girl. I have a daughter that age which intensified my connection to the storyline. This had me on edge from start to finish - my pulse pounding, my heart hurting, holding my breath as I flipped pages.
The narratives are brilliant! There are several highly intriguing character perspectives that change as the chapters unfold. The characters were real, emotional and authentic. I felt for them and was intensely invested in each of their stories.
The pace was quick, the flow was smooth — each chapter revealing slightly more to the backstory. It kept me hungry for more yet worried about what I would uncover.
I have read and loved every book by this author and this was no exception. This was a well-written, highly suspenseful, atmospheric, tension-filled psychological thriller. Loved every page of it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for my review copy!
Expected date of publication: July 9th, 2020
This book shook me to the core. It revolves around the abduction of a seven-year-old girl. I have a daughter that age which intensified my connection to the storyline. This had me on edge from start to finish - my pulse pounding, my heart hurting, holding my breath as I flipped pages.
The narratives are brilliant! There are several highly intriguing character perspectives that change as the chapters unfold. The characters were real, emotional and authentic. I felt for them and was intensely invested in each of their stories.
The pace was quick, the flow was smooth — each chapter revealing slightly more to the backstory. It kept me hungry for more yet worried about what I would uncover.
I have read and loved every book by this author and this was no exception. This was a well-written, highly suspenseful, atmospheric, tension-filled psychological thriller. Loved every page of it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for my review copy!
Expected date of publication: July 9th, 2020
June 2, 2023
Thank you to my lovely co-host Tabitha for the b-day gift. Unfortunately this shit stank but hey I put it on my wishlist so I only have myself to blame.
Writing: 2.5/5 | Plot: 2/5 | Ending: YOU'RE TROLLING
SYNOPSIS
Dumbass Of The Year – I mean, Elisa lets her daughter have a sleepover with a complete stranger and then is shocked when something bad happens.
MY OPINION
?????????? Respectfully, how is this rated higher than her book Cabin Fever: Trapped in the woods, there is no escape... The perfect chilly wintertime read? This is now my fourth from Alex Dahl, and without a doubt my least fave.
The writing? Basic, uninspired. The storytelling? She put the TELL in storytelling let's just say that. It was closed caption to the max. So many unnecessary details. A complete lack of emotive writing. Even scenes that should be harrowing, or heartbreaking, or whatever else were blander than Kashi bars. I can't believe this was the same author who made a hoe feel things in Cabin Fever. This was giving me mainstream popcorn thriller with the depth of a puddle.
Also this book was a solid 200 pages long. Yes. 200. My paperback copy was around 440 pgs and half of that was just a waste of a tree's life. I got to about halfway and debated scrubbing the grout in my shower instead. Selma and Marcus' POVs were totally unnecessary and added nothing to the story but slight diversions. Tbh I'm so glad I read book #2 After She'd Gonebefore this one because there's no way I'd willingly read anything with Selma's fake psychic ass again. Why the fk did we need to endure chapters of her telling us what a hard worker she is and her whack ass "visions." Waste of pages. Lucia's (missing child) POV should've been compelling but again... bland as a Kashi bar.
I really can't get into my biggest issues with this book without spoilies so here we go...
SPOILER ALERT. SCROLL TO BOTTOM.
ARE WE ACTUALLY SERIOUS????? After Lucia is kidnapped by Line (random mom Elisa trusts her daughter with), Elisa and her husband Frederik are interviewed at the station and Frederik admits he had a cyber side hoe. The police go through the FB chats with Elisa in the room and learn that cyber side hoe threatened Frederik's life and his family when he broke things off. You'd think the police would immediately track down this chick because 1) she threatened him and 2) it was a woman who took their daughter but nah, they write her off as a "bored housewife" / "looney" and it's yeeted to the side until the last quarter of the book. SHOCKER (to no one) the cyber side hoe is CENTRAL to the disappearance of their daughter. FINALLY Elisa shows Frederik a picture of Line (which she found using her secret Blackhat hacker skillz) and is like, is this your cyber side hoe by chance? And Frederik is like omfg how'd you know. At this reveal I rolled my eyes so hard they almost popped right out my skull.
If Elisa was able to dig up a pic of ole girl, why did the police not do the same and just cross their t's to ensure this isn't the same lady as Line? I absolutely HATE when authors rely on Paw Patrol policing to pull off the big twisty twist. I know, I know, police make mistakes... but literally this is just basic elimination of subjects. Also, it's NUTTERS to me that the police would ignore Elisa's insistence that the dead body found at some random farm wasn't Line and just be like: well maybe she had a really good wig and some coloured contacts and you're just mistaken???? Somebody call Detective Pikachu because I have more faith in him (her? they? idk).
The other part that really twisted my titties was the fact Elisa REFUSED to admit she had a dick on the DL just to "save face." She's constantly going on about how much she misses Lucia and would do anything to get her back... well except for tell the truth and take an L in public of course. Sorry Lucia but mommy's gotta keep her reputation in check! Again ARE WE SERIOUS??? Elisa actually goes as far to say that her secrets won't help find Lucia. SHOCKER AGAIN (to no one) but her secrets are actually key to finding Lucia! Who would've thunk it! When she finally comes clean, the Paw Patrol policemen are like girl why tf did you wait so long? And Elisa is like: well this random journalist asked me who might wanna seek revenge on me so it got me thinking. GIRL THE POLICE LITERALLY ASKED YOU THE SAME SHIT ON DAY ONE??????????
What an absolute clusterfuck. Lucia deserves better.
SPOILERS DONE.
If you liked this premise, read Andrea Mara's All Her Fault instead. Same vibes but at least it's shorter so you don't waste as much time.
PROS AND CONS
PROS: it was a gift
CONS: don't make me say it again.....
____________________________
For some sick reason, do you want to hear more of my nonsense? Check out my podcast: Novels & Nonsense streaming everywhere.
Writing: 2.5/5 | Plot: 2/5 | Ending: YOU'RE TROLLING
SYNOPSIS
MY OPINION
?????????? Respectfully, how is this rated higher than her book Cabin Fever: Trapped in the woods, there is no escape... The perfect chilly wintertime read? This is now my fourth from Alex Dahl, and without a doubt my least fave.
The writing? Basic, uninspired. The storytelling? She put the TELL in storytelling let's just say that. It was closed caption to the max. So many unnecessary details. A complete lack of emotive writing. Even scenes that should be harrowing, or heartbreaking, or whatever else were blander than Kashi bars. I can't believe this was the same author who made a hoe feel things in Cabin Fever. This was giving me mainstream popcorn thriller with the depth of a puddle.
Also this book was a solid 200 pages long. Yes. 200. My paperback copy was around 440 pgs and half of that was just a waste of a tree's life. I got to about halfway and debated scrubbing the grout in my shower instead. Selma and Marcus' POVs were totally unnecessary and added nothing to the story but slight diversions. Tbh I'm so glad I read book #2 After She'd Gonebefore this one because there's no way I'd willingly read anything with Selma's fake psychic ass again. Why the fk did we need to endure chapters of her telling us what a hard worker she is and her whack ass "visions." Waste of pages. Lucia's (missing child) POV should've been compelling but again... bland as a Kashi bar.
I really can't get into my biggest issues with this book without spoilies so here we go...
SPOILER ALERT. SCROLL TO BOTTOM.
ARE WE ACTUALLY SERIOUS????? After Lucia is kidnapped by Line (random mom Elisa trusts her daughter with), Elisa and her husband Frederik are interviewed at the station and Frederik admits he had a cyber side hoe. The police go through the FB chats with Elisa in the room and learn that cyber side hoe threatened Frederik's life and his family when he broke things off. You'd think the police would immediately track down this chick because 1) she threatened him and 2) it was a woman who took their daughter but nah, they write her off as a "bored housewife" / "looney" and it's yeeted to the side until the last quarter of the book. SHOCKER (to no one) the cyber side hoe is CENTRAL to the disappearance of their daughter. FINALLY Elisa shows Frederik a picture of Line (which she found using her secret Blackhat hacker skillz) and is like, is this your cyber side hoe by chance? And Frederik is like omfg how'd you know. At this reveal I rolled my eyes so hard they almost popped right out my skull.
If Elisa was able to dig up a pic of ole girl, why did the police not do the same and just cross their t's to ensure this isn't the same lady as Line? I absolutely HATE when authors rely on Paw Patrol policing to pull off the big twisty twist. I know, I know, police make mistakes... but literally this is just basic elimination of subjects. Also, it's NUTTERS to me that the police would ignore Elisa's insistence that the dead body found at some random farm wasn't Line and just be like: well maybe she had a really good wig and some coloured contacts and you're just mistaken???? Somebody call Detective Pikachu because I have more faith in him (her? they? idk).
The other part that really twisted my titties was the fact Elisa REFUSED to admit she had a dick on the DL just to "save face." She's constantly going on about how much she misses Lucia and would do anything to get her back... well except for tell the truth and take an L in public of course. Sorry Lucia but mommy's gotta keep her reputation in check! Again ARE WE SERIOUS??? Elisa actually goes as far to say that her secrets won't help find Lucia. SHOCKER AGAIN (to no one) but her secrets are actually key to finding Lucia! Who would've thunk it! When she finally comes clean, the Paw Patrol policemen are like girl why tf did you wait so long? And Elisa is like: well this random journalist asked me who might wanna seek revenge on me so it got me thinking. GIRL THE POLICE LITERALLY ASKED YOU THE SAME SHIT ON DAY ONE??????????
What an absolute clusterfuck. Lucia deserves better.
SPOILERS DONE.
If you liked this premise, read Andrea Mara's All Her Fault instead. Same vibes but at least it's shorter so you don't waste as much time.
PROS AND CONS
PROS: it was a gift
CONS: don't make me say it again.....
____________________________
For some sick reason, do you want to hear more of my nonsense? Check out my podcast: Novels & Nonsense streaming everywhere.
July 9, 2020
I was hooked right from the start when Elisa let her daughter go on a playdate that turned into a sleepover. Knowing that something terrible is going to happen and feeling that great sense of dread, I found myself yelling at her not to let her sleepover. I was tapping my kindle as fast as I could to find out what happens.
Alex Dahl creates some great suspense here with the different POVs from the characters that kept me guessing and asking myself so many questions. I enjoyed all the narratives; however, I struggled a bit with 7-year-old Lucia, who's POV felt older to me, and I kept forgetting how old she was. She did add some emotional depth to the story and suspense, so overall it worked for me.
The story is well-paced with the suspense to it, and I had no idea what was going on in the first half. The tension increased with every page, and the pace picks up even more in the last half. All those questions I had entertained me, and I enjoyed trying to figure things out. The pieces started to come together for me in the last half, and I thought I had it all figured out, then I was disappointed when I didn't. lol
Things wrapped up well for me, and I enjoyed this thrilling and entertaining yet unsettling page-turner that had me in suspense from start to finish. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy from the publisher for a blog tour
Alex Dahl creates some great suspense here with the different POVs from the characters that kept me guessing and asking myself so many questions. I enjoyed all the narratives; however, I struggled a bit with 7-year-old Lucia, who's POV felt older to me, and I kept forgetting how old she was. She did add some emotional depth to the story and suspense, so overall it worked for me.
The story is well-paced with the suspense to it, and I had no idea what was going on in the first half. The tension increased with every page, and the pace picks up even more in the last half. All those questions I had entertained me, and I enjoyed trying to figure things out. The pieces started to come together for me in the last half, and I thought I had it all figured out, then I was disappointed when I didn't. lol
Things wrapped up well for me, and I enjoyed this thrilling and entertaining yet unsettling page-turner that had me in suspense from start to finish. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy from the publisher for a blog tour
July 24, 2020
EXCERPT: My mind churns with the possibilities this scenario suggests. Someone watching us - for years perhaps. Planning. Someone studying every detail of my family's routine. Waiting. Someone who hates us. Me. Someone who would do anything, absolutely anything, to get revenge. Someone who knew that when the day came, there would be absolutely nothing I could do to stop them.
I feel the past stirring in me, as if time were running on a loop and I will now be forced to go back there. There are things that if I said them would cost me everything I have left. Fredrik, Lyder, this home, my job, perhaps even my life. Any chance of getting Lucia back. But could it be, if Lucia was taken for revenge, that speaking up could prove to be the only way to find her? And we have to find her. I have always said I would give up anything, even my own life, to find my child. But would I? Would I really?
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Lucia Blix went home from school for a playdate with her new friend Josie. Later that evening, Lucia's mother Elisa dropped her overnight things round and kissed her little girl goodnight.
That was the last time she saw her daughter.
The next morning, when Lucia's dad arrived to pick her up, the house was empty. No furniture, no family, no Lucia.
In Playdate, Alex Dahl puts a microscope on a seemingly average, seemingly happy family plunged into a life-altering situation. Who has taken their daughter, and why?
MY THOUGHTS: A novel idea, well executed, Playdate had me on the edge of my seat for the majority of the read. As with Dahl's first book, The Boy at the Door, Playdate is an unsettling read. The characters are mercurial, the reader's perception of them constantly being challenged and changing.
It is impossible to know who, if anyone, is telling the truth. Fragments of the truth, yes, but definitely not the whole truth. And as little truths were revealed, my sympathies shifted from one character to another to another. But by the end, the only people I felt any sympathy for were the two little girls, Lucia and Josie, and Selma's father.
The story is narrated from five points of view - Elisa, Lucia's mother; Lucia herself; the kidnapper; a prisoner; and Selma, a journalist who has her own unique way of unearthing stories and the truth. The role of the prisoner intrigued me, and it took me a while to figure it out. Selma was far cleverer than I.
Alex Dahl has written a taut and suspenseful psychological thriller that kept me slightly off balance for most of the read. But the epilogue...did we need it? Or is there more to come?
😲😲😲😲.2
#Playdate #NetGalley
We are all more than the sum total of what we show others, even our spouses and children. There are vast unseen spaces inside us that could be filled with anything at all...
The sun is always shining, whether (we can) see it or not.
THE AUTHOR: Half-American, half-Norwegian, Alex Dahl was born in Oslo. She graduated with a B.A. in Russian and German linguistics with international studies and went on to complete an M.A. in creative writing at Bath Spa University, followed by an M.S. in business management at Bath University. Alex has published short stories in the U.K. and the U.S. She is a serious Francophile and currently lives in both London and Sandefjord.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Playdate by Alex Dahl for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
I feel the past stirring in me, as if time were running on a loop and I will now be forced to go back there. There are things that if I said them would cost me everything I have left. Fredrik, Lyder, this home, my job, perhaps even my life. Any chance of getting Lucia back. But could it be, if Lucia was taken for revenge, that speaking up could prove to be the only way to find her? And we have to find her. I have always said I would give up anything, even my own life, to find my child. But would I? Would I really?
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Lucia Blix went home from school for a playdate with her new friend Josie. Later that evening, Lucia's mother Elisa dropped her overnight things round and kissed her little girl goodnight.
That was the last time she saw her daughter.
The next morning, when Lucia's dad arrived to pick her up, the house was empty. No furniture, no family, no Lucia.
In Playdate, Alex Dahl puts a microscope on a seemingly average, seemingly happy family plunged into a life-altering situation. Who has taken their daughter, and why?
MY THOUGHTS: A novel idea, well executed, Playdate had me on the edge of my seat for the majority of the read. As with Dahl's first book, The Boy at the Door, Playdate is an unsettling read. The characters are mercurial, the reader's perception of them constantly being challenged and changing.
It is impossible to know who, if anyone, is telling the truth. Fragments of the truth, yes, but definitely not the whole truth. And as little truths were revealed, my sympathies shifted from one character to another to another. But by the end, the only people I felt any sympathy for were the two little girls, Lucia and Josie, and Selma's father.
The story is narrated from five points of view - Elisa, Lucia's mother; Lucia herself; the kidnapper; a prisoner; and Selma, a journalist who has her own unique way of unearthing stories and the truth. The role of the prisoner intrigued me, and it took me a while to figure it out. Selma was far cleverer than I.
Alex Dahl has written a taut and suspenseful psychological thriller that kept me slightly off balance for most of the read. But the epilogue...did we need it? Or is there more to come?
😲😲😲😲.2
#Playdate #NetGalley
We are all more than the sum total of what we show others, even our spouses and children. There are vast unseen spaces inside us that could be filled with anything at all...
The sun is always shining, whether (we can) see it or not.
THE AUTHOR: Half-American, half-Norwegian, Alex Dahl was born in Oslo. She graduated with a B.A. in Russian and German linguistics with international studies and went on to complete an M.A. in creative writing at Bath Spa University, followed by an M.S. in business management at Bath University. Alex has published short stories in the U.K. and the U.S. She is a serious Francophile and currently lives in both London and Sandefjord.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Playdate by Alex Dahl for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
July 23, 2020
"I told myself that the past would stay buried, but maybe I always knew, deep down, that it would come back and take from me what was owed."
Well well look who finally read something decent. First of all if you haven't read this take it from my experience when I say that you're not missing out. It was a fun thriller read but still got my reservations.
This book is too wordy for a thriller. It felt dragged at some parts. When I reached the 50 percent mark it continuously loses its momentum for me. The beginning and the ending are the only excellent parts with non stop action. The middle was a little bit bumpy and unnecessary lengthy but still has some gems in it. It was dramatic. More of a day-to-day narrative.
I made peace with the twists in this story. Most of them weren't really shocking but reasonable. Not far fetched which is unusual for some thrillers. The clues were just all over there and if you paid attention you would know. However, the final twist caught me off guard. Maybe because I judged things way too early? Never been glad I was wrong until now. Still believable and reasonable.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and somehow gripping story revolving someone's child who got abducted. I wished it was more concise, more fast-paced and that the tension was equally distributed all through out.
"Whatever happens next, this new life will necessarily be one of flights and secrets and borrowed time."
Well well look who finally read something decent. First of all if you haven't read this take it from my experience when I say that you're not missing out. It was a fun thriller read but still got my reservations.
This book is too wordy for a thriller. It felt dragged at some parts. When I reached the 50 percent mark it continuously loses its momentum for me. The beginning and the ending are the only excellent parts with non stop action. The middle was a little bit bumpy and unnecessary lengthy but still has some gems in it. It was dramatic. More of a day-to-day narrative.
I made peace with the twists in this story. Most of them weren't really shocking but reasonable. Not far fetched which is unusual for some thrillers. The clues were just all over there and if you paid attention you would know. However, the final twist caught me off guard. Maybe because I judged things way too early? Never been glad I was wrong until now. Still believable and reasonable.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and somehow gripping story revolving someone's child who got abducted. I wished it was more concise, more fast-paced and that the tension was equally distributed all through out.
"Whatever happens next, this new life will necessarily be one of flights and secrets and borrowed time."
July 5, 2020
3.5 Stars! Suspenseful, unsettling, and interesting!
PLAYDATE by ALEX DAHL is available on July 9, 2020!
Norma’s Stats:
Cover: An intriguing, ominous, dark, woeful, and fitting representation to storyline.
Title: I love the apprehensive and edgy feel that this title immediately gave me which definitely enticed me in wanting and needing to read this book. You just know that something horrific is going to happen on a Playdate and gives you that intense feeling of having to know what exactly.
Writing/Prose: Classic atmospheric Nordic Noir suspense that was well-written, steadily-paced, easy to follow and readable.
Plot: Intense, edgy, suspenseful, distressing, emotional and entertaining.
Ending: A fast-paced, intense, open-ended, and bittersweet ending with an epilogue that I found to be a little unsatisfying and slightly problematic.
Overall: This was a very good and twisty thriller that had some likeable and unlikeable characters. I thought each of the characters perspectives were interesting and compelling but definitely had me questioning some of their motives though. Would recommend it!
This book had quite the hook with a premise that immediately grabbed my attention but the middle part stalled a bit for me and I found myself wanting to skim to the end. Once I reached somewhere around the 80% mark then the pacing totally picked up for me again.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for providing me with an eARC.
PLAYDATE by ALEX DAHL is available on July 9, 2020!
Norma’s Stats:
Cover: An intriguing, ominous, dark, woeful, and fitting representation to storyline.
Title: I love the apprehensive and edgy feel that this title immediately gave me which definitely enticed me in wanting and needing to read this book. You just know that something horrific is going to happen on a Playdate and gives you that intense feeling of having to know what exactly.
Writing/Prose: Classic atmospheric Nordic Noir suspense that was well-written, steadily-paced, easy to follow and readable.
Plot: Intense, edgy, suspenseful, distressing, emotional and entertaining.
Ending: A fast-paced, intense, open-ended, and bittersweet ending with an epilogue that I found to be a little unsatisfying and slightly problematic.
Overall: This was a very good and twisty thriller that had some likeable and unlikeable characters. I thought each of the characters perspectives were interesting and compelling but definitely had me questioning some of their motives though. Would recommend it!
This book had quite the hook with a premise that immediately grabbed my attention but the middle part stalled a bit for me and I found myself wanting to skim to the end. Once I reached somewhere around the 80% mark then the pacing totally picked up for me again.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for providing me with an eARC.
July 5, 2020
4.5 stars
Well, this is how you do Nordic Noir. Elisa Blix makes a huge mistake. She allows her seven year old daughter Lucia to go on a playdate and sleepover with Josephine, no big deal you’d think. Except Elisa has literally just met mother Line but after pleading from both little girls she relents and allows it. By the following day Lucia, Josephine and Line vanish and what unfolds becomes a Norwegian cause celebre. The Blix family are not rich so what lies behind Line’s motives? The story is told from several perspectives including journalist Selma who becomes obsessive about the case.
There is much to praise in the storytelling which I find gripping. Elisa’s emotions, as well as that of husband Fredrik, are captured so well and there is unsurprisingly a whole gamut of those. Both have secrets in their past that they’d like to keep buried and these emerge slowly but surely. The characters are very good and at times you feel like a fly on the wall observing them. The mysterious and intriguing case affects the whole country as it’s such a rare crime and so including a journalist is an excellent idea and her perspective is fascinating. You have no idea for much of the book whose ‘truth’ is the actual truth and that doesn’t emerge until the end and does so very dramatically. There’s a good sense of place in the descriptions which allows you to visualise the various locations. Elisa’s point of view I find the most riveting as her story and background in her birthplace of Lillehammer adds an intriguing dimension and she has a lot to hide.
This is an excellent and well written psychological thriller however, I have some issues with Lucia’s perspective as she doesn’t sound like any seven year old I know. Whilst it’s vitally important to the storytelling to hear her voice I think it needs to have a more authentic feel although it does make for interesting reading.
Overall though this is a superb, twisty thriller which keeps the interest throughout and I really like how the differing perspectives tie up so effectively at the end. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the ARC.
Well, this is how you do Nordic Noir. Elisa Blix makes a huge mistake. She allows her seven year old daughter Lucia to go on a playdate and sleepover with Josephine, no big deal you’d think. Except Elisa has literally just met mother Line but after pleading from both little girls she relents and allows it. By the following day Lucia, Josephine and Line vanish and what unfolds becomes a Norwegian cause celebre. The Blix family are not rich so what lies behind Line’s motives? The story is told from several perspectives including journalist Selma who becomes obsessive about the case.
There is much to praise in the storytelling which I find gripping. Elisa’s emotions, as well as that of husband Fredrik, are captured so well and there is unsurprisingly a whole gamut of those. Both have secrets in their past that they’d like to keep buried and these emerge slowly but surely. The characters are very good and at times you feel like a fly on the wall observing them. The mysterious and intriguing case affects the whole country as it’s such a rare crime and so including a journalist is an excellent idea and her perspective is fascinating. You have no idea for much of the book whose ‘truth’ is the actual truth and that doesn’t emerge until the end and does so very dramatically. There’s a good sense of place in the descriptions which allows you to visualise the various locations. Elisa’s point of view I find the most riveting as her story and background in her birthplace of Lillehammer adds an intriguing dimension and she has a lot to hide.
This is an excellent and well written psychological thriller however, I have some issues with Lucia’s perspective as she doesn’t sound like any seven year old I know. Whilst it’s vitally important to the storytelling to hear her voice I think it needs to have a more authentic feel although it does make for interesting reading.
Overall though this is a superb, twisty thriller which keeps the interest throughout and I really like how the differing perspectives tie up so effectively at the end. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the ARC.
February 6, 2022
One of the worst things that a parent could experience is losing their child. I could never begin to imagine how anyone could survive that.
This book is straight up sad and heartbreaking. A typical playdate turned into an abduction case, a game of cat and mouse, of never knowing. It hurts me just to read the anguish of the mother and everyone involved.
The author laid out different character perspectives and I was able to be a part of their thoughts and motives. The mystery of the kidnapping lured me in and when the truth slowly unraveled, it all made sense in the end.
A must read book! Little bit slow in the first half but will definitely pull you back in at the second half. I am also in awe of the vivid description of Le Tachoué! I can feel the chill coming from the white moutains of snow and the heat of summer air as the seasons changed. I would love to live in a place like that. Seems very peaceful and quiet to me.
This book is straight up sad and heartbreaking. A typical playdate turned into an abduction case, a game of cat and mouse, of never knowing. It hurts me just to read the anguish of the mother and everyone involved.
The author laid out different character perspectives and I was able to be a part of their thoughts and motives. The mystery of the kidnapping lured me in and when the truth slowly unraveled, it all made sense in the end.
A must read book! Little bit slow in the first half but will definitely pull you back in at the second half. I am also in awe of the vivid description of Le Tachoué! I can feel the chill coming from the white moutains of snow and the heat of summer air as the seasons changed. I would love to live in a place like that. Seems very peaceful and quiet to me.
December 13, 2021
Would you let your daughter stay over at a friends place without knowing the parents?
Well that's what happened to Lucia Bix who was just 7 years old , her father Fredrik went to pick her up but the house was deserted & was very isolated. Elisa Lucia's mother was grief stricken & wondered why my child?
Fredrik & Elisa get the police in to solve & find out what happened to Lucia they also have a son who she keeps close by never lets him out of her sight they find out that the house Josephine & Line lived in was rented out as an air BNB by a man in Sweden this leaves both Elisa & fredrik chilled to the core.
Will they ever see their beautiful Lucia again or is she lost to them forever?
I found this a very dark chilling read it had the feel of realism as these things happen every day i felt for Elisa & fredrik , but in another way i thought why would you let Lucia go when you hardly know the parents, my emotions were every where in this book it was well written & it was the first read by this author will definitely read more i loved every minute of this book it grabbed you from the beginning & never let go to the end it was a page turner was very compelling & a strong 5 star read.
Well that's what happened to Lucia Bix who was just 7 years old , her father Fredrik went to pick her up but the house was deserted & was very isolated. Elisa Lucia's mother was grief stricken & wondered why my child?
Fredrik & Elisa get the police in to solve & find out what happened to Lucia they also have a son who she keeps close by never lets him out of her sight they find out that the house Josephine & Line lived in was rented out as an air BNB by a man in Sweden this leaves both Elisa & fredrik chilled to the core.
Will they ever see their beautiful Lucia again or is she lost to them forever?
I found this a very dark chilling read it had the feel of realism as these things happen every day i felt for Elisa & fredrik , but in another way i thought why would you let Lucia go when you hardly know the parents, my emotions were every where in this book it was well written & it was the first read by this author will definitely read more i loved every minute of this book it grabbed you from the beginning & never let go to the end it was a page turner was very compelling & a strong 5 star read.
July 4, 2020
3,5 ⭐️
What kind of mother allows her 7 yo daughter to go on a playdate and sleepover with a person she just literally met? Clue: not a very good one!
Although the premise sounded quite improbable I bought it for the sake of the story. It started pretty high and at first I thought this would be more of a thriller where we follow the investigation into the kidnapping, but instead I found more of a family drama where we follow Lucia’s parents and how they deal with her absence, the new life Lucia is living with her kidnapper, and Selma, a journalist that becomes obssesed with Lucia’s case and my favorite character in this story.
All the different perspectives made this an interesting read, as we get to know also about the villain’s motivations and, although they were not justifiable at all, I couldn’t help to feel some sympathy for her. Certainly more than I did for Elisa, Lucia’s mom, as I could not understand how, in her situation, she was silent for 18 months just to save her sorry ass (I refer to the clue in my opening 😅)
With a good start and an ending that picked up the pace in the last 20%, the middle part stalled a bit. I had to substract half a star because the epilogue has an open ending that leaves the door open for a follow up but left me with a bittersweet taste.
Thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
What kind of mother allows her 7 yo daughter to go on a playdate and sleepover with a person she just literally met? Clue: not a very good one!
Although the premise sounded quite improbable I bought it for the sake of the story. It started pretty high and at first I thought this would be more of a thriller where we follow the investigation into the kidnapping, but instead I found more of a family drama where we follow Lucia’s parents and how they deal with her absence, the new life Lucia is living with her kidnapper, and Selma, a journalist that becomes obssesed with Lucia’s case and my favorite character in this story.
All the different perspectives made this an interesting read, as we get to know also about the villain’s motivations and, although they were not justifiable at all, I couldn’t help to feel some sympathy for her. Certainly more than I did for Elisa, Lucia’s mom, as I could not understand how, in her situation, she was silent for 18 months just to save her sorry ass (I refer to the clue in my opening 😅)
With a good start and an ending that picked up the pace in the last 20%, the middle part stalled a bit. I had to substract half a star because the epilogue has an open ending that leaves the door open for a follow up but left me with a bittersweet taste.
Thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2020
Elisa had agreed to her daughter, Lucia to go on a playdate with her new friend, Josie. But when her dad goes to pick her up the next day, she's vanished along with the family. Selma is a journalist who quickly becomes obsessed with Lucia's story. She's convinced the family are hiding something and Selma wants to get to the bottom of it.
This is a gripping psychological thriller from beginning to end. We all worried when our kids were on a sleepover, wondering if they're ok, ate their meal, will sleep ok etc. The story is full of twists and suspense. It's told from multiple points of view. I can't say too much about this story as I would spoil it for potential readers. The pace is good and steady. This is a well written book that will keep you guessing.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Head of Zeus and the author Alex Dhal for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a gripping psychological thriller from beginning to end. We all worried when our kids were on a sleepover, wondering if they're ok, ate their meal, will sleep ok etc. The story is full of twists and suspense. It's told from multiple points of view. I can't say too much about this story as I would spoil it for potential readers. The pace is good and steady. This is a well written book that will keep you guessing.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Head of Zeus and the author Alex Dhal for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2021
Throughout the entire book, I never wanted to leave this PLAYDATE.
QUICK SUMMARY: I have 4 words to say about this book:
1) Don't
2) Miss
3) This
4) PLAYDATE!
Set in Norway and the French Pyrenees, this riveting domestic thriller was gripping, twisty, well-written, and absolutely, positively unputdownable.
I listened to the audiobook, brilliantly narrated by a full cast.
I look forward to reading future titles by this talented author.
QUICK SUMMARY: I have 4 words to say about this book:
1) Don't
2) Miss
3) This
4) PLAYDATE!
Set in Norway and the French Pyrenees, this riveting domestic thriller was gripping, twisty, well-written, and absolutely, positively unputdownable.
I listened to the audiobook, brilliantly narrated by a full cast.
I look forward to reading future titles by this talented author.
August 9, 2022
Apart from the unlikeliness of the plot; Why did Dahl need to include an unprofessional journalist as one of the main POVs? Especially what she did at the end?!?
March 25, 2020
Elisa had her reservations about allowing her seven year old daughter Lucia to go for a playdate at the home of her school friend Josie. But Josie's mother Lane was really nice and friendly and Lucia was so excited about having the opportunity to go on her first ever playdate so Elisa couldn't see any harm in giving her consent.
Only that one simple decision is about to plunge Elisa and her husband Fredrik into every parents worst nightmare when the next day,there is no sign of Lucia, Josie or Lane at the house that Elisa visited the previous day.
After it becomes apparent that Lucia's kidnapping was meticulously planned and not just a random opportunistic crime, Elisa, Fredrik and the police struggle to figure out who has taken her and why? Is Lucia alive or dead? Do either Elisa or Fredrik know more than they are letting on? What secrets are hiding within the walls of their seemingly happy home?
The chapters of this utterly enthralling thriller were voiced by several.diverse characters including Elisa, someone called Josephine and a journalist named Selma. As a parent,I would have expected to experience at least a tiny bit of empathy for Elisa as the story unfolded but I didn't. I thought that she was a very unlikable character for various reasons and I can't say I liked Fredrik very much either. I loved feisty Selma and thought that she was a fantastic, realistic character,someone who struggled with her confidence but stubbornly stuck to her convictions despite the doubts of others. The reader knew what was happening to poor Lucia because there was chapters that were voiced from her perspective. These chapters were heart breaking, gripping, chilling and intense. She was such a sweet little girl, brave and feisty and it really pulled on my heart strings as we witnessed her confusion as she was manipulated and intimidated into believing her captors versions of events. The other characters in this book were a mixed bunch of diverse individuals, some likeable,some not so likeable. The behaviour and actions of one of them were not excusable but no one can say how they would react if they found themselves in the same situation.
Playdate is a extremely well written, utterly riveting thriller that had me totally captivated from the very first page. I genuinely couldn't put this brilliant book down. The story which was scarily realistic and chilling keeps the reader guessing and frantically turning the pages,There was some unexpected twists and turns,the tension building as the secrets and lies were exposed and the story hurtled towards its gripping conclusion. I really really enjoyed this outstanding book, worth far more than five stars and very very highly recommended
Many thanks to Head Of Zeus and Alex Dahl for a arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review
Only that one simple decision is about to plunge Elisa and her husband Fredrik into every parents worst nightmare when the next day,there is no sign of Lucia, Josie or Lane at the house that Elisa visited the previous day.
After it becomes apparent that Lucia's kidnapping was meticulously planned and not just a random opportunistic crime, Elisa, Fredrik and the police struggle to figure out who has taken her and why? Is Lucia alive or dead? Do either Elisa or Fredrik know more than they are letting on? What secrets are hiding within the walls of their seemingly happy home?
The chapters of this utterly enthralling thriller were voiced by several.diverse characters including Elisa, someone called Josephine and a journalist named Selma. As a parent,I would have expected to experience at least a tiny bit of empathy for Elisa as the story unfolded but I didn't. I thought that she was a very unlikable character for various reasons and I can't say I liked Fredrik very much either. I loved feisty Selma and thought that she was a fantastic, realistic character,someone who struggled with her confidence but stubbornly stuck to her convictions despite the doubts of others. The reader knew what was happening to poor Lucia because there was chapters that were voiced from her perspective. These chapters were heart breaking, gripping, chilling and intense. She was such a sweet little girl, brave and feisty and it really pulled on my heart strings as we witnessed her confusion as she was manipulated and intimidated into believing her captors versions of events. The other characters in this book were a mixed bunch of diverse individuals, some likeable,some not so likeable. The behaviour and actions of one of them were not excusable but no one can say how they would react if they found themselves in the same situation.
Playdate is a extremely well written, utterly riveting thriller that had me totally captivated from the very first page. I genuinely couldn't put this brilliant book down. The story which was scarily realistic and chilling keeps the reader guessing and frantically turning the pages,There was some unexpected twists and turns,the tension building as the secrets and lies were exposed and the story hurtled towards its gripping conclusion. I really really enjoyed this outstanding book, worth far more than five stars and very very highly recommended
Many thanks to Head Of Zeus and Alex Dahl for a arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review
August 18, 2020
Elisa has allowed her seven year old daughter to have a play date with a child of a family that has just moved into the area. She then lets her daughter have a sleepover with them. The next day they have gone and taken her daughter.
I really don’t know why anyone would trust their seven year old child to a total stranger.
I really enjoyed The Boy At at the but this story was too chaotic for me and just didn’t hold my interest.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really don’t know why anyone would trust their seven year old child to a total stranger.
I really enjoyed The Boy At at the but this story was too chaotic for me and just didn’t hold my interest.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2020
BLOODY BRILLIANT, I would say. Author Alex Dahl took my breath away replacing it with unbridled thrill and suspense where reading this book became my highest priority.
A first sleepover of child Lucia with her best friend Josephine became her last sleepover as the next day Lucia’s parents found the house vacant with no sign of anyone. Then came the long years of waiting to bring the child home. Will they?
My first book by this author, I was so addicted to the writing. Every clue given had me analyzing it in detail. The human behavior and the secrets that the psyche could hold hit me hard. I was gripped to the point that I forgot the world. In fact, this story became the focal point of my sight, and I could se nothing beyond. It was that thrilling.
Written in multiple POV along with the one from little Lucia, it showed me a world where things were set in shades of gray. The author’s talent at inserting the different nuances to bring a depth to the storyline, which would often appear familiar, had my heart racing.
Pulse spikes were the norm as the pages turned. I just needed to know the truth. There were so many secrets buried deep. This was one book which made me want to read faster yet go slow to savor every word and try to work out the truth. And no, I couldn’t.
Tension raced into me as I reached the end; the prose was smooth, well defined; the characters grew with their secrets in every chapter. I was completely immersed in this atmospheric thriller. I could only let go once I was done.
One of my best breakfast reads.
A first sleepover of child Lucia with her best friend Josephine became her last sleepover as the next day Lucia’s parents found the house vacant with no sign of anyone. Then came the long years of waiting to bring the child home. Will they?
My first book by this author, I was so addicted to the writing. Every clue given had me analyzing it in detail. The human behavior and the secrets that the psyche could hold hit me hard. I was gripped to the point that I forgot the world. In fact, this story became the focal point of my sight, and I could se nothing beyond. It was that thrilling.
Written in multiple POV along with the one from little Lucia, it showed me a world where things were set in shades of gray. The author’s talent at inserting the different nuances to bring a depth to the storyline, which would often appear familiar, had my heart racing.
Pulse spikes were the norm as the pages turned. I just needed to know the truth. There were so many secrets buried deep. This was one book which made me want to read faster yet go slow to savor every word and try to work out the truth. And no, I couldn’t.
Tension raced into me as I reached the end; the prose was smooth, well defined; the characters grew with their secrets in every chapter. I was completely immersed in this atmospheric thriller. I could only let go once I was done.
One of my best breakfast reads.
January 3, 2022
My first book of 2022 turned out to be a crazy one - I hope that’s a good omen! When I saw the synopsis, I knew I had to read this…
To sum it up, it’s about a woman letting her daughter have a sleepover with a new-to-town friend, but the next day, she is late coming home. Hours late, with no communication. The panicked parents, Elisa and Fredrik, go to the house they had been in just the day before, but it is empty … the AirB&B guests have checked out and the maid is there cleaning.
This was about as good as I was hoping. It’s mostly written from the views of Elisa, her daughter, Lucia, and the woman who took Lucia. There are also two other characters to round things out: Selma, a journalist obsessed with the story, and Marcus, a man in prison also obsessed because of his strange connection.
Through these character’s eyes, the story of how a girl was kidnapped in a small, safe Norwegian town is told, and quite well. Elisa feels awful for letting Lucia be alone with a family they’d just met, but the other mother looked so normal. Their house was flawless, the girls were getting along … she can’t be faulted much, but try telling that to a mother with a missing child. Soon, several countries are on the lookout for Lucia, hoping they find her before it’s all too late. Is she with a notorious sex trafficking mob? Is she still with the woman who took her? Is she still alive?
Minor complaint time: it did seem to drag at the end, but maybe that’s just because I wanted to find out what was going to happen! I wanted a good ending in this one, and while it was slightly predictable, it was a good ending. I could’ve used a little more atmosphere - I feel like the author tried but failed to take me to Europe. It wavered a little in intensity in places, but overall this a page-turner and the story itself is fantastic. Four stars for a great beginning to a new year of books!
To sum it up, it’s about a woman letting her daughter have a sleepover with a new-to-town friend, but the next day, she is late coming home. Hours late, with no communication. The panicked parents, Elisa and Fredrik, go to the house they had been in just the day before, but it is empty … the AirB&B guests have checked out and the maid is there cleaning.
This was about as good as I was hoping. It’s mostly written from the views of Elisa, her daughter, Lucia, and the woman who took Lucia. There are also two other characters to round things out: Selma, a journalist obsessed with the story, and Marcus, a man in prison also obsessed because of his strange connection.
Through these character’s eyes, the story of how a girl was kidnapped in a small, safe Norwegian town is told, and quite well. Elisa feels awful for letting Lucia be alone with a family they’d just met, but the other mother looked so normal. Their house was flawless, the girls were getting along … she can’t be faulted much, but try telling that to a mother with a missing child. Soon, several countries are on the lookout for Lucia, hoping they find her before it’s all too late. Is she with a notorious sex trafficking mob? Is she still with the woman who took her? Is she still alive?
Minor complaint time: it did seem to drag at the end, but maybe that’s just because I wanted to find out what was going to happen! I wanted a good ending in this one, and while it was slightly predictable, it was a good ending. I could’ve used a little more atmosphere - I feel like the author tried but failed to take me to Europe. It wavered a little in intensity in places, but overall this a page-turner and the story itself is fantastic. Four stars for a great beginning to a new year of books!
August 4, 2020
Playdate is an incredibly emotional story of a child abduction from what seemed to be a completely safe environment. It is also a story of mother’s love, grief, revenge, mistrust, deep secrets and horrible consequences of a single mistake.
As always Alex Dahl’s writing is delightful for me to read. I am a big fan of her novels and the newest addition did not disappoint me. Unlikeable, compelling characters, horrifying atmosphere of kidnapping and a chilling plot make Playdate an extremely well written thriller. The book is an excellent study of a human behaviour and psychology insight into the choice of actions.
Well paced, full of twists and hard breaking story that I had no idea were it was heading. Brilliant read I would definitely recommend.
I am a huge fan of Alex Dahl but must admit Playdate is my favourite so far.
As always Alex Dahl’s writing is delightful for me to read. I am a big fan of her novels and the newest addition did not disappoint me. Unlikeable, compelling characters, horrifying atmosphere of kidnapping and a chilling plot make Playdate an extremely well written thriller. The book is an excellent study of a human behaviour and psychology insight into the choice of actions.
Well paced, full of twists and hard breaking story that I had no idea were it was heading. Brilliant read I would definitely recommend.
I am a huge fan of Alex Dahl but must admit Playdate is my favourite so far.
June 20, 2021
Początek i końcówka bardzo dobre, ale środek okropnie się dłuży. Bardzo przegadana książka według mnie. W połowie się naprawdę nudziłam i nie mogłam się doczekać końca czytania.
April 14, 2020
Alex Dahl is a new addition to the ever-growing category of proficient Norwegian crime fiction and her previous two psychological thrillers, The Boy At the Door and The Heart Keeper (for my full review click here), have won both the readers attention and critical acclaim. In her third book, Playdate, she follows the same pattern, as far as plotline and narrative style are concerned, and delivers a splendid, exhilarating crime/thriller that can be deemed her best book so far. The novel revolves around a case of kidnapping that sends the parents into a journey of self-exploration which will change them forever after. Even though one can claim that the storyline is rather common and -perhaps- over-used in many novels of the genre, what sets Playdate apart is the author's idiosyncratic writing style that aspires to delve deep in the protagonists' soul and inner thoughts and finally succeeds. I found the main characters to be compelling and three-dimensional while the plot is rich and keeps the reader glued on his seat, eager to turn the pages to see what happens next in, what is essentially a tragic story. The novel's pacing is even, nevertheless, the story picks up pace after the first third and builds the tension until the final pages where everything is resolved. The setting is Sandefjord a small town in Vestfold in Norway as it was in Dahl's first two books.
Elisa Blix is a young mother of two little kids, Lyden and Lucia, while she works as a stewardess in Nordic Lines. She leads a fairly ordinary life but everything turns upside down when she meets a woman named Line and her little daughter, Josephine. Line will convince Elisa to let Lucia come to a playdate with Josephine and stay the night in their house. Elisa will reluctantly agree and soon she will realize that this was, perhaps, the biggest mistake of her life. The day after, Lucia will disappear and Elisa, along with her husband, Frederik will have to face the unthinkable. Their precious daughter is kidnapped and taken somewhere far away by some truly nefarious, vicious people connected to an Eastern European child trafficking network. The Norwegian police, not used to such criminal cases in their quiet, peaceful country, will launch an enormous manhunt to find little Lucia. Elisa and Frederik quickly grasp that they will have to face their troublesome past, which is filled with secrets, and reveal everything to the authorities to have a chance in locating their offspring.
The author adopts the multiple perspective narrative, as we are watching the unraveling of the plot through the eyes of the main characters and the villains as well. The twists and turns are well-placed, plausible and efficient and the reader never feels tired or bored with the book's plot evolution. In a way, Dahl's writing style and characterization are reminiscent of another great Norwegian female crime author, Karin Fossum. Fossum has written many novels set in rural Norway, focusing on the characters' psychological state and thought process rather than relying on intricate plotlines or exhilarating action sequences. Her Konrad Sejer series is full of soul-searching expeditions and introspection for her protagonists and Alex Dahl seems to follow her tradition. There are some great psychological insights and observations on human life and nature scattered in the text. It was refreshing to read such a crime novel and I can sincerely admit that I am an Alex Dahl fan. I will keep my eyes open for her next writing attempts in the future.
I want to thank NetGalley and Head of Zeus publishing for providing a free ARC of this title.
Elisa Blix is a young mother of two little kids, Lyden and Lucia, while she works as a stewardess in Nordic Lines. She leads a fairly ordinary life but everything turns upside down when she meets a woman named Line and her little daughter, Josephine. Line will convince Elisa to let Lucia come to a playdate with Josephine and stay the night in their house. Elisa will reluctantly agree and soon she will realize that this was, perhaps, the biggest mistake of her life. The day after, Lucia will disappear and Elisa, along with her husband, Frederik will have to face the unthinkable. Their precious daughter is kidnapped and taken somewhere far away by some truly nefarious, vicious people connected to an Eastern European child trafficking network. The Norwegian police, not used to such criminal cases in their quiet, peaceful country, will launch an enormous manhunt to find little Lucia. Elisa and Frederik quickly grasp that they will have to face their troublesome past, which is filled with secrets, and reveal everything to the authorities to have a chance in locating their offspring.
The author adopts the multiple perspective narrative, as we are watching the unraveling of the plot through the eyes of the main characters and the villains as well. The twists and turns are well-placed, plausible and efficient and the reader never feels tired or bored with the book's plot evolution. In a way, Dahl's writing style and characterization are reminiscent of another great Norwegian female crime author, Karin Fossum. Fossum has written many novels set in rural Norway, focusing on the characters' psychological state and thought process rather than relying on intricate plotlines or exhilarating action sequences. Her Konrad Sejer series is full of soul-searching expeditions and introspection for her protagonists and Alex Dahl seems to follow her tradition. There are some great psychological insights and observations on human life and nature scattered in the text. It was refreshing to read such a crime novel and I can sincerely admit that I am an Alex Dahl fan. I will keep my eyes open for her next writing attempts in the future.
I want to thank NetGalley and Head of Zeus publishing for providing a free ARC of this title.
February 14, 2021
Was a good,engaging psychological thriller, which kept me guessing till perhaps the first three quarters.. Story of a 7 year old child abducted while at a play date ,is sure to send scary shivers along all parents' spines and make us realize how our actions can affect innocent lives.
I could also use this to fulfill a challenge ( Arm chair travel- to Norway .)
I could also use this to fulfill a challenge ( Arm chair travel- to Norway .)
November 23, 2025
3.5⭐️
Przyznam, że była naprawdę zaskakująca i z wieloma zmianami akcji, ale to jak momentami mi się ciągnęła…
Już na początku były akcje trochę dla mnie nie logiczne, gdy kobieta zaprosiła Elise na lampkę wina, a ta się zgodziła chociaż przyjechała samochodem. Patrząc na to, że brała udział w wypadku samochodowym, który spowodował jej pijany kochanek, to naprawdę nie ma to sensu.
Przyznam, że była naprawdę zaskakująca i z wieloma zmianami akcji, ale to jak momentami mi się ciągnęła…
Już na początku były akcje trochę dla mnie nie logiczne, gdy kobieta zaprosiła Elise na lampkę wina, a ta się zgodziła chociaż przyjechała samochodem. Patrząc na to, że brała udział w wypadku samochodowym, który spowodował jej pijany kochanek, to naprawdę nie ma to sensu.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2020
(If you haven’t read the book and are planning to you probably shouldn’t read this review first as I have a rant and ruin the ending)
I really enjoyed the beginning of the book, it was fast paced and it had all the signs of one of those great books that you can’t put down. But it soon slowed down and I mean really slowed down to the point where there is a 18 month time jump.
But what annoyed me and kind of ruined the book for me was the ending, specifically Elisa’s reaction to her daughters disappearance, it seemed as though she always put protecting herself before her daughter. Which seems crazy when you think about how long her daughter was missing for before she realised she might have to tell the truth. Crucially though at the end it says Elisa saw Jacqueline at the site of the crash, and even if it was dark and she didn’t see her face, surely she would have looked her up afterwards, surely if she was haunted about what had happened or truly had feelings for Marcus she would have followed the court case, she would have seen Jacqueline, if Jacqueline found Elisa, I find it hard to believe Elisa couldn’t or wouldn’t have ever bothered to find out who Jacqueline was. And in which case she would have recognised her when they met again at the school and the whole plot becomes unbelievable.
However I did like the characters overall which is why I give it three stars, especially Lucia and Josephine, they were well written, believable little girls, not cliched or childish for their respective ages. I liked Marcus’s character, I wish he had a prominent part in the book, it was interesting to see the life he had built while in prison. So all in all I probably would read something from the author again but I was a little disappointed by the ending.
I really enjoyed the beginning of the book, it was fast paced and it had all the signs of one of those great books that you can’t put down. But it soon slowed down and I mean really slowed down to the point where there is a 18 month time jump.
But what annoyed me and kind of ruined the book for me was the ending, specifically Elisa’s reaction to her daughters disappearance, it seemed as though she always put protecting herself before her daughter. Which seems crazy when you think about how long her daughter was missing for before she realised she might have to tell the truth. Crucially though at the end it says Elisa saw Jacqueline at the site of the crash, and even if it was dark and she didn’t see her face, surely she would have looked her up afterwards, surely if she was haunted about what had happened or truly had feelings for Marcus she would have followed the court case, she would have seen Jacqueline, if Jacqueline found Elisa, I find it hard to believe Elisa couldn’t or wouldn’t have ever bothered to find out who Jacqueline was. And in which case she would have recognised her when they met again at the school and the whole plot becomes unbelievable.
However I did like the characters overall which is why I give it three stars, especially Lucia and Josephine, they were well written, believable little girls, not cliched or childish for their respective ages. I liked Marcus’s character, I wish he had a prominent part in the book, it was interesting to see the life he had built while in prison. So all in all I probably would read something from the author again but I was a little disappointed by the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2021
Gdy każde przebudzenie w nocy wypełniają myśli o książce, którą aktualnie czytasz, to musi być dobra książka.
Budzę się dzisiaj często. Myślę między każdym urwanym strzępkiem snu. A sny? Te może też są o niej.
(2 maja, 05:01)
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Pięć dni później
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Rozpuszczam na języku słodką czekoladkę. Głośnik telefonu delikatnie wibruje pod moim palcem w rytmie znanym już na pamięć.
Jak to jest nie wiedzieć, gdzie jest Twoje dziecko? Jak to jest nie czuć ciepłego oddechu na swoim policzku, gdy zmęczone zabawą zasypia tuż przy Tobie? Jak to jest przeżyć w tej niepewności pierwszą godzinę? Dzień? Kolejny...?
Zaciskam z całej siły powieki. Nigdy. Nigdy nie chcę się przekonać. Nie myśl o tym już, nie myśl.
Głaszczę z czułością brzuch. Obudziłaś się. Nie, mama nie będzie płakać. Już raz płakała nad tą historią.
Muzyka cały czas gra. Zaczynam cicho śpiewać.
„You are my sunshine, my only sunshine
You make me happy when skies are gray...”
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Lucia. Mała Lucia. Kochana Lucia.
To nie było zwykłe porwanie. Nikt nie szarpnął jej nagle za rękę. Nikt nie zakrył gotowych do krzyku ust podczas zatrzaskiwania drzwi obcego samochodu.
Lucia poznała w szkole nową koleżankę. Mamy dziewczynek połączyła nić porozumienia.
Tak, możesz odwiedzić Josie. Odbiorę Cię wieczorem. Tak, możesz zostać na noc, przywiozę Ci Twoje rzeczy. Bawcie się dobrze! Tak, do jutra, Kochanie...
A jutro, które nadeszło, okazało się pierwszym z najgorszych dni.
Lucia. Gdzie jest moja Lucia. Zaraz wróci, na pewno. Lucia...
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Wyjątkowy thriller. I mówię to z pełną świadomością znaczenia tych słów. Naprawdę rzadko spotykam (w tym gatunku!) książki prowadzone w ten sposób. Co ją wyróżnia? Doskonale rozbudowana warstwa emocjonalna. I nie chodzi mi tylko o budowanie napięcia i wzbudzanie przerażenia, tak typowe dla thrillerów. Tu są również emocje charakterystyczne dla książek obyczajowych i tych z gatunku literatury pięknej, czyli moich ukochanych. Czułość, miłość, relacja między matką i córką... tak pięknie i przejmująco przedstawione. To trzeba przeczytać i poczuć.
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Lulu-Rose biegnie boso przez las. Kamienie głęboko ranią jej stopy. - Mamo! Mamo! Mamo! - Krzyczy prosto w ciemność.
Nie usłyszy Cię.
_
I tak myślę o niej od tygodnia. Wiem, że wkrótce wypełni i Wasze poprzecinane urwanym snem noce.
I śnić też będziecie o niej.
Zaczytana Querida
Budzę się dzisiaj często. Myślę między każdym urwanym strzępkiem snu. A sny? Te może też są o niej.
(2 maja, 05:01)
_
Pięć dni później
_
Rozpuszczam na języku słodką czekoladkę. Głośnik telefonu delikatnie wibruje pod moim palcem w rytmie znanym już na pamięć.
Jak to jest nie wiedzieć, gdzie jest Twoje dziecko? Jak to jest nie czuć ciepłego oddechu na swoim policzku, gdy zmęczone zabawą zasypia tuż przy Tobie? Jak to jest przeżyć w tej niepewności pierwszą godzinę? Dzień? Kolejny...?
Zaciskam z całej siły powieki. Nigdy. Nigdy nie chcę się przekonać. Nie myśl o tym już, nie myśl.
Głaszczę z czułością brzuch. Obudziłaś się. Nie, mama nie będzie płakać. Już raz płakała nad tą historią.
Muzyka cały czas gra. Zaczynam cicho śpiewać.
„You are my sunshine, my only sunshine
You make me happy when skies are gray...”
_
Lucia. Mała Lucia. Kochana Lucia.
To nie było zwykłe porwanie. Nikt nie szarpnął jej nagle za rękę. Nikt nie zakrył gotowych do krzyku ust podczas zatrzaskiwania drzwi obcego samochodu.
Lucia poznała w szkole nową koleżankę. Mamy dziewczynek połączyła nić porozumienia.
Tak, możesz odwiedzić Josie. Odbiorę Cię wieczorem. Tak, możesz zostać na noc, przywiozę Ci Twoje rzeczy. Bawcie się dobrze! Tak, do jutra, Kochanie...
A jutro, które nadeszło, okazało się pierwszym z najgorszych dni.
Lucia. Gdzie jest moja Lucia. Zaraz wróci, na pewno. Lucia...
_
Wyjątkowy thriller. I mówię to z pełną świadomością znaczenia tych słów. Naprawdę rzadko spotykam (w tym gatunku!) książki prowadzone w ten sposób. Co ją wyróżnia? Doskonale rozbudowana warstwa emocjonalna. I nie chodzi mi tylko o budowanie napięcia i wzbudzanie przerażenia, tak typowe dla thrillerów. Tu są również emocje charakterystyczne dla książek obyczajowych i tych z gatunku literatury pięknej, czyli moich ukochanych. Czułość, miłość, relacja między matką i córką... tak pięknie i przejmująco przedstawione. To trzeba przeczytać i poczuć.
_
Lulu-Rose biegnie boso przez las. Kamienie głęboko ranią jej stopy. - Mamo! Mamo! Mamo! - Krzyczy prosto w ciemność.
Nie usłyszy Cię.
_
I tak myślę o niej od tygodnia. Wiem, że wkrótce wypełni i Wasze poprzecinane urwanym snem noce.
I śnić też będziecie o niej.
Zaczytana Querida
January 1, 2023
THIS WAS A RIDICULOUS BOOK.
May 12, 2022
Wciągająca od pierwszej strony, ale do mnie chyba nie przemawiają thrillery w których praktycznie od początku wiemy już co i jak. Zniknięcie dziewczynki po tym, jak poszła do swojej koleżanki na noc to pomysł dość niestandardowy i ciekawy, ale rozwiązanie zagadki potraktowane trochę po łebkach. A szkoda, bo historia miała wielki potencjał, który przez zbytni chaos i za dużo postaci stracił cały swój urok. Nie rozumiem też dodania do historii kilku perspektyw, w tym dziennikarki, które koniec końców nie wniosły niczego do fabuły, a jedynie spowalniały tempo. Ostatnie strony niczego nie wyjaśniają i skupiają się na bohaterach dziesięcioplanowych a nie tego oczekiwałam sięgając po historię o zaginionej dziewczynce.
Kolejny popularny thriller, który wcale mnie nie porwał, aczkolwiek jako rozrywka i oderwanie od rzeczywistości - jak najbardziej spełnia swoją rolę. Nie oczekiwałabym jednak bawienia się w Sherlocka przy rozwiązywaniu tej sprawy, bo niestety wszystko wiadome jest już na starcie, co odebrało ogromną radość z czytania
Kolejny popularny thriller, który wcale mnie nie porwał, aczkolwiek jako rozrywka i oderwanie od rzeczywistości - jak najbardziej spełnia swoją rolę. Nie oczekiwałabym jednak bawienia się w Sherlocka przy rozwiązywaniu tej sprawy, bo niestety wszystko wiadome jest już na starcie, co odebrało ogromną radość z czytania
June 6, 2021
To była naprawdę dobra książka! Minęło sporo czasu odkąd ostatnio czytałam thriller, bo trochę odeszłam od tego gatunku, ale brakowało mi takich emocji :)
September 24, 2024
Historia pełna niedopowiedzeń i utrzymująca niepokój na wysokim poziomie – świetna!
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