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Anna Fekete #2
The Defenceless
Chilling, disturbing, and terrifyingly believable, an extraordinary thriller by one of the most exciting new voices in crime fiction
When an old man is found dead on the road—seemingly run over by a Hungarian au pair—police investigator Anna Fekete is certain that there is more to the incident than meets the eye. As she begins to unravel an increasingly complex case, she’s led on a deadly trail where illegal immigration, drugs, and, ultimately, murder threaten not only her beliefs, but her life. Anna’s partner Esko is entrenched in a separate but equally dangerous investigation into the activities of an immigrant gang, where deportation orders and raids cause increasing tension and result in desperate measures by gang members—and the police themselves. Then a bloody knife is found in the snow, and the two cases come together in ways that no one could have predicted. As pressure mounts, it becomes clear that having the law on their side may not be enough for Anna and Esko.
When an old man is found dead on the road—seemingly run over by a Hungarian au pair—police investigator Anna Fekete is certain that there is more to the incident than meets the eye. As she begins to unravel an increasingly complex case, she’s led on a deadly trail where illegal immigration, drugs, and, ultimately, murder threaten not only her beliefs, but her life. Anna’s partner Esko is entrenched in a separate but equally dangerous investigation into the activities of an immigrant gang, where deportation orders and raids cause increasing tension and result in desperate measures by gang members—and the police themselves. Then a bloody knife is found in the snow, and the two cases come together in ways that no one could have predicted. As pressure mounts, it becomes clear that having the law on their side may not be enough for Anna and Esko.
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
May 2, 2017
This book was the winner of the Best Finnish Crime Novel in 2014. It features a female detective solving several murders that appear unrelated at first. The police procedural is a good story but it’s also a good read for all the social commentary that goes along with it. A sample: “Society needs the drunk, the obese, the depressed, as examples to the rest of us and to provide statistics with which to frighten people.”
As a woman working in a traditionally male field her main protagonist is a senior (approaching retirement) male chauvinist; an alcoholic dinosaur (you didn’t know they drank, did you?) a heavy smoker. But in an ironic twist, our heroine is a lot like him – they are both friendless, smokers, heavy drinkers, workaholics – so much so that they hate the weekends because they don’t know what to do with themselves. They both live in undecorated apartments and prefer a spartan office. She doesn’t know and doesn’t want to know neighbors in her apartment complex. There’s a focus on the loneliness of older people without contact with kids --- their own or any others
A lot of the plot revolves around immigrants in Finland. Racism and prejudice against immigrants figure strongly in the story. A main character is a newly arrived Pakistani Christian (yes, there are a few). He’s homeless and into drugs. Street gangs, drugs and violence are making their way into Finland from Sweden and Denmark. One theme is that locals are using drugs to get out of the dull routine of a safe society. In addition to drug addicts, there are a lot of alcoholics. Her brother is one and she’s borderline – getting so drunk at a club that she doesn’t know who the guy is she wakes up next to the following morning.
Here’s a snippet of conversation she has with a female acquaintance (the main character speaks first):
“Thank you.”
“For What?”
“For making me feel relatively normal.”
Following up on the theme of immigrants, the main character is one herself. She’s Hungarian from the former Yugoslavia, which doesn’t exist anymore, so she has lost her country much like the Pakistani Christian.
Interestingly, the Finnish and Hungarian languages are distantly related due to their ancient origins from the Uralic languages, not from Indo-European roots like other European languages. Language becomes a theme in the book too, as when a young woman being investigated turns out to be Hungarian and latches on to the detective as a long-lost friend. The young woman makes the detective feel old when she switches to formal language when talking to the detective: “I kiss your hand.”
There’s a lot of local color of Finland: the weather, snow, cold and ice; skiing on the frozen harbor; saunas; reindeer. It's the second of three books in the Anna Fekete series.
The author is also a punk rocker and special needs teacher. Like the late Finnish author, Tove Jansson, she lives on an island.
Photo from helsinkitimes.fi
As a woman working in a traditionally male field her main protagonist is a senior (approaching retirement) male chauvinist; an alcoholic dinosaur (you didn’t know they drank, did you?) a heavy smoker. But in an ironic twist, our heroine is a lot like him – they are both friendless, smokers, heavy drinkers, workaholics – so much so that they hate the weekends because they don’t know what to do with themselves. They both live in undecorated apartments and prefer a spartan office. She doesn’t know and doesn’t want to know neighbors in her apartment complex. There’s a focus on the loneliness of older people without contact with kids --- their own or any others
A lot of the plot revolves around immigrants in Finland. Racism and prejudice against immigrants figure strongly in the story. A main character is a newly arrived Pakistani Christian (yes, there are a few). He’s homeless and into drugs. Street gangs, drugs and violence are making their way into Finland from Sweden and Denmark. One theme is that locals are using drugs to get out of the dull routine of a safe society. In addition to drug addicts, there are a lot of alcoholics. Her brother is one and she’s borderline – getting so drunk at a club that she doesn’t know who the guy is she wakes up next to the following morning.
Here’s a snippet of conversation she has with a female acquaintance (the main character speaks first):
“Thank you.”
“For What?”
“For making me feel relatively normal.”
Following up on the theme of immigrants, the main character is one herself. She’s Hungarian from the former Yugoslavia, which doesn’t exist anymore, so she has lost her country much like the Pakistani Christian.
Interestingly, the Finnish and Hungarian languages are distantly related due to their ancient origins from the Uralic languages, not from Indo-European roots like other European languages. Language becomes a theme in the book too, as when a young woman being investigated turns out to be Hungarian and latches on to the detective as a long-lost friend. The young woman makes the detective feel old when she switches to formal language when talking to the detective: “I kiss your hand.”
There’s a lot of local color of Finland: the weather, snow, cold and ice; skiing on the frozen harbor; saunas; reindeer. It's the second of three books in the Anna Fekete series.
The author is also a punk rocker and special needs teacher. Like the late Finnish author, Tove Jansson, she lives on an island.
Photo from helsinkitimes.fi
January 14, 2016
3.5 stars
Hiekkapelto's book is an intriguing mix of Scandi crime and social commentary. Contemporary issues such as immigration, gangs, drugs, racism, alcoholism, familial relationships are all addressed with a cutting style, seen through the lens of each character and Finnish society is certainly not viewed with rose tinted specs.
Out here he would never blend into the crowds, just another part of the blissfully identical pink-skinned masses; his black eyes and dark skin dug into Finnish eyes like a spike.
The language itself is often beautiful and surprising, a successful blend of Hiekkapelto and translator.
She buried her face in a cushion, but the tears would not come. They hardened into a lump in her chest where years of unwept tears rattled against one another like stones.
I also loved the literary and musical references peppered throughout the text. Thanks to the wonder of online music streaming, I got to listen to the Hungarian folk music discussed by two of the characters. (Sebestyén Márta). It's actually a great added experience.
For all that, the story suffered with pacing. I always read multiple books at once and this was slow enough that I never felt I needed to rush back to it. More than anything, this is why it lost stars for me. While the characters Anna and Esko were brilliantly drawn, and the crime within a crime plot was clever, I was never swept away by the story.
Hiekkapelto's book is an intriguing mix of Scandi crime and social commentary. Contemporary issues such as immigration, gangs, drugs, racism, alcoholism, familial relationships are all addressed with a cutting style, seen through the lens of each character and Finnish society is certainly not viewed with rose tinted specs.
Out here he would never blend into the crowds, just another part of the blissfully identical pink-skinned masses; his black eyes and dark skin dug into Finnish eyes like a spike.
The language itself is often beautiful and surprising, a successful blend of Hiekkapelto and translator.
She buried her face in a cushion, but the tears would not come. They hardened into a lump in her chest where years of unwept tears rattled against one another like stones.
I also loved the literary and musical references peppered throughout the text. Thanks to the wonder of online music streaming, I got to listen to the Hungarian folk music discussed by two of the characters. (Sebestyén Márta). It's actually a great added experience.
For all that, the story suffered with pacing. I always read multiple books at once and this was slow enough that I never felt I needed to rush back to it. More than anything, this is why it lost stars for me. While the characters Anna and Esko were brilliantly drawn, and the crime within a crime plot was clever, I was never swept away by the story.
September 6, 2015
The Defenceless – A Stunning Thriller
Kati Hiekkapelto brings us a second outing for Police Investigator Anne Fekete with a stunning thriller The Defenceless, and easy to see why this was the best Finnish Crime Novel of 2014. This is a brilliantly written Scandi-noir that is at times provocative with a wonderful social conscience that challenges our own prejudices. At the same time as Europe is tearing itself apart over immigrants and how we deal with refugees Kati Hiekkapelto pricks our conscience in this exciting thriller.
An old man is found dead on an ice covered road, and a Hungarian au pair is accused of running him over, Anna Fekete is assigned the investigation and from the beginning she realises that nothing is as it seems. As the investigation grows from a seemingly innocent start becomes increasingly complex where illegal immigration, drugs and murder come to the fore.
Anna’s curmudgeon of a partner Esko is involved in a separate case in which his life is at risk from not only the criminal world but his own body. He has been asked to investigate the Cobras a gang made up of immigrants who are challenging a biker gang on its territory for drugs. The Cobras already gained a reputation across Scandinavia for challenging and taking over territories and are not afraid to leave dead bodies in their wake.
When two teenage girls find a bloody knife in the ever ending snow and ice of northern Finland the two separate cases come together in a way that is not expected. As Anna and Esko continue their investigations even though they may have the law on their side, the law can sometimes be a harsh tool for justice and will justice be done by the end of the book?
Kati Hiekkapelto delivers a strong and powerful investigator who is a tough and powerful character who still cannot define herself, she still sees herself as an immigrant but also Finnish. She also has the same feelings of loneliness many successful career women have in that they have to make sacrifices to be successful and should be personal happiness be really sacrificed on the altar of work life balance.
Kati Hiekkapelto is a brilliant new talent who is seriously good as a thriller writer, her characters continue to develop, who is not afraid to take risks and challenge the reader. Kati Hiekkapelto will continue to get better with her writing she avoids all the usual clichés with crime writing, so everybody comes across as human. The only problem for me with the setting is all that bloody snow and ice, makes me feel cold but even I will put up with the snow if it means I can have more of Anna Fekete....... please!
Kati Hiekkapelto brings us a second outing for Police Investigator Anne Fekete with a stunning thriller The Defenceless, and easy to see why this was the best Finnish Crime Novel of 2014. This is a brilliantly written Scandi-noir that is at times provocative with a wonderful social conscience that challenges our own prejudices. At the same time as Europe is tearing itself apart over immigrants and how we deal with refugees Kati Hiekkapelto pricks our conscience in this exciting thriller.
An old man is found dead on an ice covered road, and a Hungarian au pair is accused of running him over, Anna Fekete is assigned the investigation and from the beginning she realises that nothing is as it seems. As the investigation grows from a seemingly innocent start becomes increasingly complex where illegal immigration, drugs and murder come to the fore.
Anna’s curmudgeon of a partner Esko is involved in a separate case in which his life is at risk from not only the criminal world but his own body. He has been asked to investigate the Cobras a gang made up of immigrants who are challenging a biker gang on its territory for drugs. The Cobras already gained a reputation across Scandinavia for challenging and taking over territories and are not afraid to leave dead bodies in their wake.
When two teenage girls find a bloody knife in the ever ending snow and ice of northern Finland the two separate cases come together in a way that is not expected. As Anna and Esko continue their investigations even though they may have the law on their side, the law can sometimes be a harsh tool for justice and will justice be done by the end of the book?
Kati Hiekkapelto delivers a strong and powerful investigator who is a tough and powerful character who still cannot define herself, she still sees herself as an immigrant but also Finnish. She also has the same feelings of loneliness many successful career women have in that they have to make sacrifices to be successful and should be personal happiness be really sacrificed on the altar of work life balance.
Kati Hiekkapelto is a brilliant new talent who is seriously good as a thriller writer, her characters continue to develop, who is not afraid to take risks and challenge the reader. Kati Hiekkapelto will continue to get better with her writing she avoids all the usual clichés with crime writing, so everybody comes across as human. The only problem for me with the setting is all that bloody snow and ice, makes me feel cold but even I will put up with the snow if it means I can have more of Anna Fekete....... please!
March 19, 2017
Does not stand alone, read The Hummingbird first for context.
This book features Anna and Esko working on separate cases that end up being related. Slower going for the first half, although that's in keeping with the focus on her immigrant background rather than a police procedural as such. I have to say that I don't find Anna likeable enough to say I'm fully engaged by her character; I miss the first book's background on her colleagues' lives and those of the Finnish suspects. This one almost had the feeling that it could have almost as easily been set in Germany or the Netherlands to me, making Anna Turkish or Indonesian.
One thing that did work well was insight into Archie Bunker-like Esko's character. He started off as his usual obnoxious self, but later we see his vulnerability. I'll miss him in the next story featuring Anna back in Serbia. I'd say more about him, but would need to stray into spoiler territory I'm afraid.
One last thing . . . I was amazed that the fictional "northern" Finnish city was so gang-ridden, seemingly a step or two above the west side of Chicago!
This book features Anna and Esko working on separate cases that end up being related. Slower going for the first half, although that's in keeping with the focus on her immigrant background rather than a police procedural as such. I have to say that I don't find Anna likeable enough to say I'm fully engaged by her character; I miss the first book's background on her colleagues' lives and those of the Finnish suspects. This one almost had the feeling that it could have almost as easily been set in Germany or the Netherlands to me, making Anna Turkish or Indonesian.
One thing that did work well was insight into Archie Bunker-like Esko's character. He started off as his usual obnoxious self, but later we see his vulnerability. I'll miss him in the next story featuring Anna back in Serbia. I'd say more about him, but would need to stray into spoiler territory I'm afraid.
One last thing . . . I was amazed that the fictional "northern" Finnish city was so gang-ridden, seemingly a step or two above the west side of Chicago!
September 5, 2015
I have to admit it, I am properly LOVING all of the nordic noir that is flying around at the moment, I honestly don't think it has EVER been as good as it has been lately. This is no exception - touching on the somewhat topical subject of immigration, alongside drugs, smuggling and a big dollop of murder this is a very, very good read.
With a brilliant narrative and some very believable characters, two seemingly unrelated investigations come together in an excellent storyline, one that kept me guessing all the way through - I liked the fact that the two investigations were cleverly woven together. I haven't read the first in this series, but it didn't detract from the storyline at all - I didn't feel as though any spoilers were given away, and I am definitely going to go back and read Anna's first outing.
Kati Hiekkapelto is a very clever weaver of tales, and I was impressed with the way everything came together - another example of excellent Nordic Noir, and nothing less than what I have come to expect from Orenda Publishing!
With a brilliant narrative and some very believable characters, two seemingly unrelated investigations come together in an excellent storyline, one that kept me guessing all the way through - I liked the fact that the two investigations were cleverly woven together. I haven't read the first in this series, but it didn't detract from the storyline at all - I didn't feel as though any spoilers were given away, and I am definitely going to go back and read Anna's first outing.
Kati Hiekkapelto is a very clever weaver of tales, and I was impressed with the way everything came together - another example of excellent Nordic Noir, and nothing less than what I have come to expect from Orenda Publishing!
February 17, 2017
„Bezsilni” to nie tyle kryminał skandynawski z krwi i kości, ile powieść obyczajowa, w której elementy kryminału tworzą bolesny, bezlitosny komentarz społeczny. Wątek zabójstwa jest niby przewidywalny, ale jednocześnie na tyle intrygujący, by przyciągnąć uwagę czytelnika. Podstępem skupić jego uwagę na problemach o wiele poważniejszych niż zbrodnia i śledztwo same w sobie. Biznes narkotykowy, alkoholizm, przemoc domowa, patologie i oczywiście imigracja w jej legalnej oraz nielegalnej formie. To nie jest Finlandia, którą chcemy poznać. To nie jest kraj, który stwarza jakiekolwiek perspektywy. Obojętność przeraża do tego stopnia, że nawet czytelnik czuje niepokój, charakterystyczny dla takiego braku empatii.
Powieść Kati Hiekkapelto nie jest łatwą, ani przyjemną lekturą. Zmusza do myślenia, drąży tam, gdzie boli najbardziej, a na koniec odbiera nawet rozbite w pył ostatnie cząstki nadziei. „Bezsilni” w aurze beznadziei, a na horyzoncie upadający świat.
Powieść Kati Hiekkapelto nie jest łatwą, ani przyjemną lekturą. Zmusza do myślenia, drąży tam, gdzie boli najbardziej, a na koniec odbiera nawet rozbite w pył ostatnie cząstki nadziei. „Bezsilni” w aurze beznadziei, a na horyzoncie upadający świat.
September 15, 2015
Just when you thought Kati Hiekkapelto couldn't get any better...
Anna Fekete is ageing like a fine red wine.. Full blooded and damn well, with all the impetuosity which made her so appealing to readers of The Hummingbird still very much in evidence. Back for a second outing, Senior Constable Anna Fekete remains a very big part of the Violent Crimes Unit headed up by Chief Inspector Pertti Virkkunen and staffed by colleagues Esko Niemi and Sari Jokikko-Pennanen, all of whom featured in the first novel.
In The Hummingbird, Kati Hiekkapelto brought us the mesmeric Anna Fekete. Finally here was a woman who we could all recognise bits of in ourselves. Female readers adored her ball breaking spunk and sheer guts, whilst appreciating all of the foibles which made her so unique. Male readers saw a strong woman who spoke her mind, took no prisoners along the way, all topped off with a remarkably healthy sexual appetite! Fekete is such a realistic character that she can't help but get under your skin and most importantly, she is so human. With all the underlying vulnerability and doubts in her our ability which plague her never straying far from her mind she feels like "one of us".
This is a multifaceted story with seemingly separate investigations occupying Anna and her colleagues. Esko is tied up on what he at first regards as dogsbody work for the National Bureau of Investigation, investigating a dangerous Danish-Swedish street gang known as the Black Cobras and involved heavily with the drug trade. Members of the gang had now been seen in the city and Esko is asked to investigate whether they have managed to establish a power base in Finland. Meanwhile Anna is assigned to what at first appears to be a road traffic accident when an old man is found dead, seemingly run down by a Hungarian au pair. When a bloody knife is found in the snow close by to where the accident occurred, these two cases come together in a way that could never have been envisioned. With all the seamless plotting of any accomplished crime novelist, Kati draws these two distinct investigations together breathtakingly well. From then on the investigating team are drawn into a deadly story involving drugs, illegal immigration and ultimately, murder.
One of the pleasures in The Defenceless was getting to know Anna on a deeper level. In The Hummingbird we were offered a glimpse into her complex psyche and by the end of this follow up you really feel like you have a better understanding of what drives her. This second novel also puts the somewhat truculent Esko Niemi under the spotlight. At the end of The Hummingbird we began to see Esko in a somewhat different light, as perhaps something more than a one dimensional, bigoted and embittered racist. Here, with his life in danger, we get a glimpse into his personal situation and loneliness following his divorce. Whilst his casual racism is never far from the surface regarding the asylum crisis, even forcing him to ask himself during one apartment raid, 'where the hell did they all come from?', it is only later that he explains his own personal thoughts of refugees and how best to help them.
The reader is shown that perhaps Anna and Esko aren't so diametrically opposed as once appeared to be the case. Rather that they both appreciate the need to help the refugees and displaced immigrants but have contrasting opinions on how this should be achieved and whereabouts this help should be targeted. On scratching the surface you begin to see that both Anna and Esko are plagued by their inner demons and you see that the two are more alike that one could have ever at first imagined. This second novel leaves up perfectly placed for the third instalment with both Anna and Esko contemplating where there futures lie and both at the mercy of the emotions which play on both their minds. What is apparent is solving this mystery also brings with it the termination of another investigation and to Anna that loss feels like a bereavement. She lives and breathes the cases she is assigned and it is not hard to see how a resolution of the case emotionally affects her. There is a wonderful sense of realism about this emotion, the calm after the storm feeling, and very rarely are we offered an insight into this in crime fiction.
Full credit must also be given to David Hackston who has done a stellar job in translating this novel for English readers. Readers can often complain that translated works are somewhat stilted and this can be a huge turn off for many. What is so special about this novel is that it reads perfectly fluently in English. It is clear that Hiekkapelto has worked closely with Hackston and he has managed to really capture the conflicting emotions which she strove to portray in a modern day society facing a huge refugee crisis. With a great use of the vernacular and rich in colloquialisms such as 'palaver', clocked him' and 'codger' to name but a few, this could have been written in English.
With this second novel, Kati Hiekkapelto has shown herself one again to be an astute social commentator, casting her ever observant eye over everything from our 'hysterically consumerist society', remoteness of neighbours and loneliness within a big city and the niggle which irks so many of us - the feeling that what we have is never enough. She comments intelligently on the mind numbing day to day routines which help to keep our lives on an even keel and maintain some sense of order.
As a displaced immigrant herself, hailing from the former Yugoslavia, this is a case which occupies every essence of Anna's being whilst the investigation is underway. All consuming, it forces Anna to consider his existence as an alien in Finland, which is never far from her mind anyway. Hiekkapelto considers where home is for Anna and how one defines a sense of home. Once her mother has gone, where will Anna call 'home' and can a person be 'at home' in a country where they have no other relations? This remarkable novel feels like so much more than just a crime fiction novel and this really resonated with me.
This is Nordic Noir at its very best and sums up all that is so special about the emerging genre currently on everyone's lips. The Nordic setting adds an extra layer of bleakness to these novels and this is clearly evident that in The Defenceless. With its harsh weather conditions, bracing winds and ice cold chill, Finland makes a perfect setting. Reasonably remote and no stranger to dark mornings, Kati Hiekkapelto works this to spectacular effect and when she describes the 'crunch of footsteps on snow' every nerve in your body appreciates just how claustrophobic this can feel. There is certainly something morose about the setting in every sense of the word and the location is perfect for doing justice to this novel.
Without a doubt this will surely be the most timely crime novel which comes to UK readers in 2015; timely in the sense that this is a police procedural which brings to the fore the migrant crisis which Europe is very much part of. This breathtaking novel forced me to consider the value of each and every human life and left me in a deeply reflective frame of mind. In only her second crime novel, Kati Hiekkapelto has assured herself a place is the pantheon of great European crime writing talent with this stunning masterclass in Nordic Noir and she is clearly a shining star of the future. It is certainly one of the most scintillating and sinister crime reads that I have had the pleasure of devouring in 2015 and when I contemplate my year end favourites, this will be right up there. Without a doubt it will certainly be the crime read which makes the biggest impression on me this year.
Admittedly some readers struggle to gain a sense of bearings in foreign novels. For those readers and any others who want to appreciate the locations featuring in this novel, I would advise heading over to The Book Trail (https://thebooktrail.wordpress.com/20...).
Special note should also be given to the woman behind Orenda Books, the indefatigable Karen Sullivan. Karen is seeking out the very best writing talent of today and bringing this to a wider audience with her independent publishing house. Karen is also one of the most personable and accessible people who work in this intense industry and willingly communicates with her readers. Without people such as Karen bringing this selection to our attention we would be privy to only the small crop of books that the large publishing houses choose to back and heavily promote. Readers need independent publishers who take a chance and can often uncover some of the tastiest morsels of writing talent out there. For further information on Orenda Books and the books they publish, the website can be found at www.orendabooks.co.uk or by following @OrendaBooks on Twitter.
Anna Fekete is ageing like a fine red wine.. Full blooded and damn well, with all the impetuosity which made her so appealing to readers of The Hummingbird still very much in evidence. Back for a second outing, Senior Constable Anna Fekete remains a very big part of the Violent Crimes Unit headed up by Chief Inspector Pertti Virkkunen and staffed by colleagues Esko Niemi and Sari Jokikko-Pennanen, all of whom featured in the first novel.
In The Hummingbird, Kati Hiekkapelto brought us the mesmeric Anna Fekete. Finally here was a woman who we could all recognise bits of in ourselves. Female readers adored her ball breaking spunk and sheer guts, whilst appreciating all of the foibles which made her so unique. Male readers saw a strong woman who spoke her mind, took no prisoners along the way, all topped off with a remarkably healthy sexual appetite! Fekete is such a realistic character that she can't help but get under your skin and most importantly, she is so human. With all the underlying vulnerability and doubts in her our ability which plague her never straying far from her mind she feels like "one of us".
This is a multifaceted story with seemingly separate investigations occupying Anna and her colleagues. Esko is tied up on what he at first regards as dogsbody work for the National Bureau of Investigation, investigating a dangerous Danish-Swedish street gang known as the Black Cobras and involved heavily with the drug trade. Members of the gang had now been seen in the city and Esko is asked to investigate whether they have managed to establish a power base in Finland. Meanwhile Anna is assigned to what at first appears to be a road traffic accident when an old man is found dead, seemingly run down by a Hungarian au pair. When a bloody knife is found in the snow close by to where the accident occurred, these two cases come together in a way that could never have been envisioned. With all the seamless plotting of any accomplished crime novelist, Kati draws these two distinct investigations together breathtakingly well. From then on the investigating team are drawn into a deadly story involving drugs, illegal immigration and ultimately, murder.
One of the pleasures in The Defenceless was getting to know Anna on a deeper level. In The Hummingbird we were offered a glimpse into her complex psyche and by the end of this follow up you really feel like you have a better understanding of what drives her. This second novel also puts the somewhat truculent Esko Niemi under the spotlight. At the end of The Hummingbird we began to see Esko in a somewhat different light, as perhaps something more than a one dimensional, bigoted and embittered racist. Here, with his life in danger, we get a glimpse into his personal situation and loneliness following his divorce. Whilst his casual racism is never far from the surface regarding the asylum crisis, even forcing him to ask himself during one apartment raid, 'where the hell did they all come from?', it is only later that he explains his own personal thoughts of refugees and how best to help them.
The reader is shown that perhaps Anna and Esko aren't so diametrically opposed as once appeared to be the case. Rather that they both appreciate the need to help the refugees and displaced immigrants but have contrasting opinions on how this should be achieved and whereabouts this help should be targeted. On scratching the surface you begin to see that both Anna and Esko are plagued by their inner demons and you see that the two are more alike that one could have ever at first imagined. This second novel leaves up perfectly placed for the third instalment with both Anna and Esko contemplating where there futures lie and both at the mercy of the emotions which play on both their minds. What is apparent is solving this mystery also brings with it the termination of another investigation and to Anna that loss feels like a bereavement. She lives and breathes the cases she is assigned and it is not hard to see how a resolution of the case emotionally affects her. There is a wonderful sense of realism about this emotion, the calm after the storm feeling, and very rarely are we offered an insight into this in crime fiction.
Full credit must also be given to David Hackston who has done a stellar job in translating this novel for English readers. Readers can often complain that translated works are somewhat stilted and this can be a huge turn off for many. What is so special about this novel is that it reads perfectly fluently in English. It is clear that Hiekkapelto has worked closely with Hackston and he has managed to really capture the conflicting emotions which she strove to portray in a modern day society facing a huge refugee crisis. With a great use of the vernacular and rich in colloquialisms such as 'palaver', clocked him' and 'codger' to name but a few, this could have been written in English.
With this second novel, Kati Hiekkapelto has shown herself one again to be an astute social commentator, casting her ever observant eye over everything from our 'hysterically consumerist society', remoteness of neighbours and loneliness within a big city and the niggle which irks so many of us - the feeling that what we have is never enough. She comments intelligently on the mind numbing day to day routines which help to keep our lives on an even keel and maintain some sense of order.
As a displaced immigrant herself, hailing from the former Yugoslavia, this is a case which occupies every essence of Anna's being whilst the investigation is underway. All consuming, it forces Anna to consider his existence as an alien in Finland, which is never far from her mind anyway. Hiekkapelto considers where home is for Anna and how one defines a sense of home. Once her mother has gone, where will Anna call 'home' and can a person be 'at home' in a country where they have no other relations? This remarkable novel feels like so much more than just a crime fiction novel and this really resonated with me.
This is Nordic Noir at its very best and sums up all that is so special about the emerging genre currently on everyone's lips. The Nordic setting adds an extra layer of bleakness to these novels and this is clearly evident that in The Defenceless. With its harsh weather conditions, bracing winds and ice cold chill, Finland makes a perfect setting. Reasonably remote and no stranger to dark mornings, Kati Hiekkapelto works this to spectacular effect and when she describes the 'crunch of footsteps on snow' every nerve in your body appreciates just how claustrophobic this can feel. There is certainly something morose about the setting in every sense of the word and the location is perfect for doing justice to this novel.
Without a doubt this will surely be the most timely crime novel which comes to UK readers in 2015; timely in the sense that this is a police procedural which brings to the fore the migrant crisis which Europe is very much part of. This breathtaking novel forced me to consider the value of each and every human life and left me in a deeply reflective frame of mind. In only her second crime novel, Kati Hiekkapelto has assured herself a place is the pantheon of great European crime writing talent with this stunning masterclass in Nordic Noir and she is clearly a shining star of the future. It is certainly one of the most scintillating and sinister crime reads that I have had the pleasure of devouring in 2015 and when I contemplate my year end favourites, this will be right up there. Without a doubt it will certainly be the crime read which makes the biggest impression on me this year.
Admittedly some readers struggle to gain a sense of bearings in foreign novels. For those readers and any others who want to appreciate the locations featuring in this novel, I would advise heading over to The Book Trail (https://thebooktrail.wordpress.com/20...).
Special note should also be given to the woman behind Orenda Books, the indefatigable Karen Sullivan. Karen is seeking out the very best writing talent of today and bringing this to a wider audience with her independent publishing house. Karen is also one of the most personable and accessible people who work in this intense industry and willingly communicates with her readers. Without people such as Karen bringing this selection to our attention we would be privy to only the small crop of books that the large publishing houses choose to back and heavily promote. Readers need independent publishers who take a chance and can often uncover some of the tastiest morsels of writing talent out there. For further information on Orenda Books and the books they publish, the website can be found at www.orendabooks.co.uk or by following @OrendaBooks on Twitter.
January 22, 2019
Tās trīs zvaigznes ir iedotas ar piespiešanos, jo fināls man pabojāja iespaidu par grāmatu. Un grāmatas redaktoram arī daža lappuse latviešu gramatikā ir bijusi izrauta. Ja skatās kopumā - tradicionāls ziemeļu detektīvs par problēmu māktu 30+ kriminālpolicijas darbinieci, kas diemžēl atšķaidīts ar dažādām autores pārdomam par pasaules kārtību, tai skaitā - cik Rietumu civilizācija tomēr slikti izturas pret imigrantiem. Man gan patīk dabas apraksti, bet nu detektīvā nav obligāti katru nodaļu sākt ar laikapstākļiem - tāda sajūta, ka autore, uzsākot rakstīt, vispirms apraksta ainavu aiz loga. Jā, auksti un tumši tai Somijā, imigrantu bari, narkomānu bandas plosās... bet atpakaļ uz savu dzimteni Anna vienalga nebrauc.
January 4, 2025
"Šiais laikais žmonės nebegali sau leisti nieko. Nepaisant to, atrodo, kad visko yra daugiau nei bet kada anksčiau. Dūstame nuo savo bejėgiškumo, ryjame viską, o paskui išvemiame tai sau po kojomis."
Ši dalis man patiko labiau nei pirmoji. Personažai labiau dirbo patys policininko darbą, o ne pasikliovė atsitiktinumu. Be to, jie pasirodė profesionalesni, nors didelės simpatijos jiems ir nepajaučiau. Taip pat patiko, kad toks pats didelis dėmesys, kaip ir tyrimui, skiriamas asmeniniui tyrėjų (Anos daugiau, Esko šiek tiek mažiau) gyvenimui bei problemoms. Ir pagaliau supratau, kas mane trikdo šioj serijoj. Tai rašymo stilius. Nežinau, kas kaltas, ar vertimas, ar taip jau yra parašyta origalo kalba, na bet neplaukia man tekstas pasroviui, viskas per daug lygu, monotoniška, kartais jaučiuosi, lyg skaityčiau kokią nors naudojimo instrukciją.
Ši dalis man patiko labiau nei pirmoji. Personažai labiau dirbo patys policininko darbą, o ne pasikliovė atsitiktinumu. Be to, jie pasirodė profesionalesni, nors didelės simpatijos jiems ir nepajaučiau. Taip pat patiko, kad toks pats didelis dėmesys, kaip ir tyrimui, skiriamas asmeniniui tyrėjų (Anos daugiau, Esko šiek tiek mažiau) gyvenimui bei problemoms. Ir pagaliau supratau, kas mane trikdo šioj serijoj. Tai rašymo stilius. Nežinau, kas kaltas, ar vertimas, ar taip jau yra parašyta origalo kalba, na bet neplaukia man tekstas pasroviui, viskas per daug lygu, monotoniška, kartais jaučiuosi, lyg skaityčiau kokią nors naudojimo instrukciją.
September 15, 2019
lėtas detektyvas
Nežinau, ką tokio ypatingo mato žmonės skandinavų detektyvuose, bet štai suomiški detektyvai kažką turi. Na bent jau kiek spėjau susipažinti su Kati Hiekkapelto detektyvais, kurių antrasis - ‘Bejėgiai’ paliko neblogą įspūdį ir kiek geresnį nei buvo likęs po ‘Kolibrio’.
Kas man patiko ‘Kolibryje’ ir labai gerai išlaikoma antrame serijos romane - lėtas ir labai paprastas nusikaltimo tyrimas. Viskas, rodos, vyksta realiais greičiais - tyrimų rezultatų reikia palaukti, kažkurie jų daug kainuoja ir juos daryti atsisakoma. Tyrimas vyksta per pokalbius, nuojautas, sąsajas ir tokį tyrimą įdomu sekti. Šį kartą vėlgi įpinta kelios šalutinės istorijos bei pabėgėlių ir imigrantų problemos, pakeliančios paprastą detektyvinę istoriją į kitą lygį. Kas padeda, pasakojant visas tas atskiras istorijas, kad jos visos atskleidžiamos trumpais epizodais ir jeigu vienas kuris ir nelabai įdomus, tai nespėja įgristi ir jau neri į kitą epizodą.
Įtraukiantis, įdomus detektyvas su puikiais veikėjais ir misija. Jis neturi kažko labai išskirtinio savo detektyvinėje istorijoje ir iš kojų neišverčia, bet pats pasakojimas - malonus ir kartais to taip trūksta detektyvuose, kurie siekia tik šokiruoti ir jaudinti.
Nežinau, ką tokio ypatingo mato žmonės skandinavų detektyvuose, bet štai suomiški detektyvai kažką turi. Na bent jau kiek spėjau susipažinti su Kati Hiekkapelto detektyvais, kurių antrasis - ‘Bejėgiai’ paliko neblogą įspūdį ir kiek geresnį nei buvo likęs po ‘Kolibrio’.
Kas man patiko ‘Kolibryje’ ir labai gerai išlaikoma antrame serijos romane - lėtas ir labai paprastas nusikaltimo tyrimas. Viskas, rodos, vyksta realiais greičiais - tyrimų rezultatų reikia palaukti, kažkurie jų daug kainuoja ir juos daryti atsisakoma. Tyrimas vyksta per pokalbius, nuojautas, sąsajas ir tokį tyrimą įdomu sekti. Šį kartą vėlgi įpinta kelios šalutinės istorijos bei pabėgėlių ir imigrantų problemos, pakeliančios paprastą detektyvinę istoriją į kitą lygį. Kas padeda, pasakojant visas tas atskiras istorijas, kad jos visos atskleidžiamos trumpais epizodais ir jeigu vienas kuris ir nelabai įdomus, tai nespėja įgristi ir jau neri į kitą epizodą.
Įtraukiantis, įdomus detektyvas su puikiais veikėjais ir misija. Jis neturi kažko labai išskirtinio savo detektyvinėje istorijoje ir iš kojų neišverčia, bet pats pasakojimas - malonus ir kartais to taip trūksta detektyvuose, kurie siekia tik šokiruoti ir jaudinti.
October 30, 2018
Diemžēl garlaicīgi. Vērts izlasīt pirmo sestdaļu un pēdējo sestdaļu, ja krimiķi ņem slepkavību dēļ. Pa visu par un ap divu bandu potenciālā kara novēršana.
Piebildīšu - zemais vērtējums nav par grāmatu kā tādu. Tas ir par dzenošas intrigas neesamību.
Piebildīšu - zemais vērtējums nav par grāmatu kā tādu. Tas ir par dzenošas intrigas neesamību.
December 12, 2019
Policijos tyrėja Ana pradėjusi tyrimą dėl mirtinai suvažinėto senuko iškart atranda įtartinų detalių ir tyrimas veda link Suomijoje pradėjusios veikti emigrantų grupuotės.
Tyrimo metu susiduriame su nusikalstamomis grupuotėmis ir jų veikla. Jaunuoliais įsitraukusiais į nelegalią veiklą ir taip užvėrusiais sau duris į šviesią ateitį. Parodomas narkomanų gyvenimas iš vidaus, tiek daug kančios ir skausmo suguldyta romano puslapiuose.
Nors tai detektyvinis romanas, bet skaudžiai paliečiama pabėgėlių tema. Dėl kokių priežasčių žmonės palieka namus, bėga iš tėvynės į svetimus kraštus, kur nemoka kalbos, dažniausiai neturi nei vieno pažįstamo ir kokius išgyvenimus patiria. Net ir įsitvirtinę naujoje vietoje, turėdami darbus, draugų, viduje jaučia tuštumą ir tėvynės bei šeimos ilgesį.
Apskritai, pastebėjau, kad skaitydama atkreipiu dėmesį į atskiras personažų mintis, kurios akcentuoja dabartinės visuomenės problemas: vartotojiškumą, tautų skirtumus ir stereotipus, negebėjimą džiaugtis ir vertinti to ką jau turime, ko esame pasiekę, kaip dažnai apleidžiami senoliai ir paliekami vieni su ligomis ir vienišumu.
Papildomi pastebėjimai ir personažų vidiniai išgyvenimai greta lėtesnės, bet išlaikančios įtampą siužetinės linijos, romanui suteikia išskirtinumo visame šio žanro romanų kontekste.
„Bejėgiai” yra antroji dalis serijos, pirmoji: „Kolibris”.
Tyrimo metu susiduriame su nusikalstamomis grupuotėmis ir jų veikla. Jaunuoliais įsitraukusiais į nelegalią veiklą ir taip užvėrusiais sau duris į šviesią ateitį. Parodomas narkomanų gyvenimas iš vidaus, tiek daug kančios ir skausmo suguldyta romano puslapiuose.
Nors tai detektyvinis romanas, bet skaudžiai paliečiama pabėgėlių tema. Dėl kokių priežasčių žmonės palieka namus, bėga iš tėvynės į svetimus kraštus, kur nemoka kalbos, dažniausiai neturi nei vieno pažįstamo ir kokius išgyvenimus patiria. Net ir įsitvirtinę naujoje vietoje, turėdami darbus, draugų, viduje jaučia tuštumą ir tėvynės bei šeimos ilgesį.
Apskritai, pastebėjau, kad skaitydama atkreipiu dėmesį į atskiras personažų mintis, kurios akcentuoja dabartinės visuomenės problemas: vartotojiškumą, tautų skirtumus ir stereotipus, negebėjimą džiaugtis ir vertinti to ką jau turime, ko esame pasiekę, kaip dažnai apleidžiami senoliai ir paliekami vieni su ligomis ir vienišumu.
Papildomi pastebėjimai ir personažų vidiniai išgyvenimai greta lėtesnės, bet išlaikančios įtampą siužetinės linijos, romanui suteikia išskirtinumo visame šio žanro romanų kontekste.
„Bejėgiai” yra antroji dalis serijos, pirmoji: „Kolibris”.
September 8, 2015
The Defenceless, by Kati Hiekkapelto (translated by David Hackston) was perfect reading for a weekend when the media was overrun by privileged Europeans wringing their hands over what to do about an influx of desperate refugees seeking sanctuary, yet wary of upsetting their own comfortable lives. This is the second in a series of crime thrillers featuring investigator Anna Fekete, who herself fled a warzone as a child. Set in Finland the tale is as dark and challenging as the Scandinavian weather.
The reader is introduced to Sammy, a Pakistani Christian who was smuggled into Finland alongside the heroin grown to “feed the hungry veins of Western Europeans”. We learn that he too is an addict, hiding from the authorities since his application for asylum was rejected. We meet Macke, the small time dealer from whom Sammy buys his regular fix, and witness the death of the first of the story’s victims. Vilho, an old man and a neighbour, enters Macke’s apartment to complain of loud music, and suffers a violent end.
The author makes no attempt to present the growing number of refugees in this cold, Finnish town as upstanding members of the community; they include criminals and addicts. There are also those who are highly educated and wish to work but cannot make use of their superior skills until granted asylum, a process which can take many years spent eking out a living with whatever menial jobs they can find, the constant threat of deportation hanging over them.
Senior Constable Anna Fekete and her work partner, Esko Niemi, have their own problems with addiction, to alcohol and nicotine. When Vilho’s body is found, hit by a car driven by the economic migrant, Gabriella, the first thing to rule out is if she was drunk or high whilst driving. I pondered how the reader would feel towards this pale skinned, young women had she been found to be temporarily impaired; how this would contrast with the dismissal of the dark haired and dark skinned asylum seekers whom Esko wishes to send home, even if to their deaths, rather than have them feeding their habits on ‘his’ streets.
Such comparisons run through the various threads of the story adding depth and challenging reader perceptions. The futility of such nationalistic attitudes is highlighted in Anna’s musings on her beloved grandmother:
“Grandma, that dear, wonderful, wise, warm-hearted lady who had never once moved house, but who had still lived in five different states. The borders moved, rulers came and went, names changed and maps were redrawn”
Anna and Esko have more than just the death of an old man and a few illegal immigrants to deal with. As their investigations progress a blood stained knife is found in woodland and an elderly woman, living in the same apartment complex as Vilho and Macke, is reported missing. Their boss at the Violent Crimes Unit, Chief Inspector Pertti Virkkunen, is also concerned with wider issues. Intelligence reports suggest that a powerful crime syndicate, calling themselves the Black Cobra’s, are trying to establish themselves in Finland and could ignite a turf war with the resident Hell’s Angels. He believes that the drug dealers in Anna’s case may be linked to this bigger problem.
There are numerous plot lines to follow: the treatment of legal and illegal immigrants; the impact of small and big time criminal gangs; Anna’s disquiet about Gabriella; the relationships that adult children have with their relatives. The author throws in such asides as how distasteful some find the idea of geriatric sex, and how fearful a consumerist society is of oil supplies running out despite the fact that man lived without it for centuries.
Alongside all of this Anna must deal with the casual racism and misogyny of her colleagues. She is lonely with her family far away but eschews a relationship as the men she meets wish to turn her into their idea of what a woman should be. There is darkness but also humour. I shivered in the raw landscape, felt wary of the brooding woods. Esko may not have been likeable but I empathised with his pain.
The best crime fiction offers so much more than the solving of crimes. This book offers a twisting and turning plot presented within a raw and tightly written narrative. It also takes the reader inside the heads of every character, enabling them to see their world anew.
A powerful and captivating read that I did not wish to put down so finished in a day. I will be absorbing the thoughts elicited for much longer.
My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Orenda Books.
The reader is introduced to Sammy, a Pakistani Christian who was smuggled into Finland alongside the heroin grown to “feed the hungry veins of Western Europeans”. We learn that he too is an addict, hiding from the authorities since his application for asylum was rejected. We meet Macke, the small time dealer from whom Sammy buys his regular fix, and witness the death of the first of the story’s victims. Vilho, an old man and a neighbour, enters Macke’s apartment to complain of loud music, and suffers a violent end.
The author makes no attempt to present the growing number of refugees in this cold, Finnish town as upstanding members of the community; they include criminals and addicts. There are also those who are highly educated and wish to work but cannot make use of their superior skills until granted asylum, a process which can take many years spent eking out a living with whatever menial jobs they can find, the constant threat of deportation hanging over them.
Senior Constable Anna Fekete and her work partner, Esko Niemi, have their own problems with addiction, to alcohol and nicotine. When Vilho’s body is found, hit by a car driven by the economic migrant, Gabriella, the first thing to rule out is if she was drunk or high whilst driving. I pondered how the reader would feel towards this pale skinned, young women had she been found to be temporarily impaired; how this would contrast with the dismissal of the dark haired and dark skinned asylum seekers whom Esko wishes to send home, even if to their deaths, rather than have them feeding their habits on ‘his’ streets.
Such comparisons run through the various threads of the story adding depth and challenging reader perceptions. The futility of such nationalistic attitudes is highlighted in Anna’s musings on her beloved grandmother:
“Grandma, that dear, wonderful, wise, warm-hearted lady who had never once moved house, but who had still lived in five different states. The borders moved, rulers came and went, names changed and maps were redrawn”
Anna and Esko have more than just the death of an old man and a few illegal immigrants to deal with. As their investigations progress a blood stained knife is found in woodland and an elderly woman, living in the same apartment complex as Vilho and Macke, is reported missing. Their boss at the Violent Crimes Unit, Chief Inspector Pertti Virkkunen, is also concerned with wider issues. Intelligence reports suggest that a powerful crime syndicate, calling themselves the Black Cobra’s, are trying to establish themselves in Finland and could ignite a turf war with the resident Hell’s Angels. He believes that the drug dealers in Anna’s case may be linked to this bigger problem.
There are numerous plot lines to follow: the treatment of legal and illegal immigrants; the impact of small and big time criminal gangs; Anna’s disquiet about Gabriella; the relationships that adult children have with their relatives. The author throws in such asides as how distasteful some find the idea of geriatric sex, and how fearful a consumerist society is of oil supplies running out despite the fact that man lived without it for centuries.
Alongside all of this Anna must deal with the casual racism and misogyny of her colleagues. She is lonely with her family far away but eschews a relationship as the men she meets wish to turn her into their idea of what a woman should be. There is darkness but also humour. I shivered in the raw landscape, felt wary of the brooding woods. Esko may not have been likeable but I empathised with his pain.
The best crime fiction offers so much more than the solving of crimes. This book offers a twisting and turning plot presented within a raw and tightly written narrative. It also takes the reader inside the heads of every character, enabling them to see their world anew.
A powerful and captivating read that I did not wish to put down so finished in a day. I will be absorbing the thoughts elicited for much longer.
My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Orenda Books.
October 25, 2019
Labi atainota Somija ar visu tur notiekošo, protams bez bēgļu tēmas neiztikt. Narkotikas caurvij visu, bet gala rezultātā vienkārša cilvēka mantkārība pie vienas.
April 15, 2017
The Defenceless was another cover love. I was appealed by the road, the mystery of it, and the cold that seemed to irradiate from the colors. Once again, my gut did not let me down!
A nordic investigation again? Well, weirdly, I am not getting tired of them, as every story I have read so far had an original and refreshing tone to it. The Defenceless is no exception. But I would not categorize this story as only a crime book because there is so much more going on that dead bodies and police cars rushing through town.
I first fall for the writing. Distant but true, cold but spot-on, raw but realistic. The author expresses feelings in a very particular way, she shows her readers things just as they are, without sugarcoating, whether it be characters' feelings or the country's issues. Every word followed the other in a perfect dance that pictured the world as it is and this amazing prose touched me more than lots of flowery or metaphorical writings. The narration is powerful enough to be self-sufficient and efficient. My thanks and congratulations to David Hackston for such great translation.
Society needed the drunk, the obese, the depressed, as examples to the rest of us and to provide statistics with which to frighten people.
Anna Fekete, the main character, is a mystery to me. Anna is a complicated character, she has a very down-to-Earth behavior and a thick shell to protect herself, and not only from the cold. I was fascinated by the way she saw the world around her. As an Hungarian-born now Finnish citizen, her point of view on things was different from what I had ever read before, and the author skillfully added the layer of where you home lays when you have been uprooted and replanted somewhere else. Her feelings about countries, the forces behind why people moved, the differences between nationalities and the issues stemming from this were discussed in a very clever way, and I could feel Anna's longing for her home country while her place was in Finland. It's a very special feeling and I loved that it played a part in the story.
This was the power of words, she thought – the link between our native language and how we understand the world.
Directly linked to this was the subject of immigration. I never expected it to be so present and actual. I have never traveled to Finland and I don't know how things are over there but this is an issue that is at the heart of our societies these days and I felt the author had done a great job portraying what it is like for the population, citizens and newly arrived people.
Language is only an image of what is happening inside us, he thought, of what we observe around us, but those images are universal.
The author intertwined it with the investigation, or should I say investigations, giving us a strong, multi-layered, photograph of the story, the moment, and it only made things feel more authentic. Racism, illegal immigration and what it brings with it, drugs, you have it all. It could have made the story too heavy or confusing, but The Defenceless never falls into the pit of info-dumping, lose ends and subplots lost in the pages. The book is a perfectly executed music score.
The investigation itself is at the center of everything and you are handled many threats that don't seem to be related at first, but when everything comes to place, it clicks and makes you think “Yes! That's it.” I need to mention the attention to details, especially with the forensics, as I'm a sucker for real time frames and special teams trained for it, instead of having main characters handle everything themselves, making me roll my eyes and consider giving up on the book!
Section by section, scene by scene, they pieced together the events of this tragedy without seeing its protagonists.
The cases are disturbing, one question leading to another, one hint making it harder to figure out what is going on, making tension ratchet up with every new detail, blurring the lines of what is wrong, what is the best thing to do, and what is really happening. I was stuck in the middle of a web I couldn't make sense of, and it felt so good to just let myself be driven my the case and the protagonists.
Perhaps youth could conceal sorrow more effectively than any foundation cream.
Just as the investigations are the driving force behind all subplots, secondary characters are exceptionally well-crafted and an essential part of the story. You won't like them all. The author has a knack for creating a very diverse and complex cast of people who will push your buttons, make you change your mind, think twice about their reasons, motivations, and situations.
Overall, The Defenceless is a deep analysis of society forced by a strong and chilling case with more twists than you can hope for. I'm looking forward to reading more from the author!
I would like to thank Karen Sullivan for providing me with a copy of this book. This unbiased review is my thanks to her and the author.
November 5, 2019
Apibendrinant. Be galo patiko, jog tai ne tiesiog eilinis detektyvas, bet ir pasakojimas pilnas aštrių temų, skaudžių išgyvenimų, išdraskytų šeimų - tai žmonių gyvenimai. Autorė tarsi sujungia du žanrus - romaną ir detektyvą.
Visa apžvalga knygugurmane.com
Visa apžvalga knygugurmane.com
June 13, 2019
Joprojām atceros visu, ko izlasīju, ir pagājušas 2 nedēļas. Tas skandināvu krimiķim ir stipri labs rādītājs.
September 27, 2015
The real stand-out feature of this book is the strength and balance of Hiekkapelto’s plotting, as the narrative pivots between the seemingly disparate plots of two missing elderly people, a dead drug dealer, the insidious rise of motorcycle gang culture, and the truly heart-rending tale of a young man trying to survive the inhospitable climate, both social and meteorological, as an illegal immigrant in Finland. It is a testament to the assured and wholly convincing writing style of Hiekkapelto that all of these contrasting sub-plots are so beautifully balanced, as in the hands of a lesser writer the links between them may not have been so authentically achieved. Consequently, Hiekkapelto also perfectly times some unexpected reveals, with at least two of these criminal cases being solved very late on in the book, having already put her readers through the emotional ringer of the initial investigations. In true Scandinavian style, and very reminiscent of the brilliant Swedish duo Roslund-Hellstrom, Hiekkapelto also unflinchingly turns her gaze on the socio-economic climate of Finland, particularly in relation to the story of Sammy, the young illegal immigrant, and the traumatic events that have brought him to Europe. This arc of the story powerfully evolves over the course of the book, and as Sammy becomes more deeply mired in the criminal investigation, Hiekkapelto subtly shapes our perception of him, and the uncertain future he faces. Likewise, Hiekkapelto presents for our dubious pleasure a damning indictment on the gang and drug culture that seeks to ensnare and overpower not only impressionable youths, but their insidious effect on respectable members of the community who come into contact with them. It’s a fairly bleak vision of modern society but unerringly truthful.
And so to Hiekkapelto’s central character, Anna Fekete, who combines the elements of silk and steel in equal measure. A focused, highly professional police officer, and meticulous in her approach to the cases she faces, with a sharp and naturally inquisitive mind. Being an outsider herself, due to her Hungarian background, she has a natural affinity to those on the outer reaches of Finnish society, and thus a fairer view of the immigration issues. She’s fairly well-respected, and for the most part enjoys a comfortable relationship with her colleagues, but in true crime fiction style she has two Achilles heels. One is her irresponsible, alcoholic brother Akos, and the other, her exceptionally misguided choices of romantic entanglements, which leads to much self-recrimination and sleepless nights. For the most part, I didn’t particularly feel the need for the latter, as her life experience as a non-native Finn, her relationship with her brother, and the very nature of her profession, provided more than enough points of interest. But I concede it is always nice to poke at useless men with a sharp stick. Talking of useless men, I must mention my favourite character, detective Esko Niemi, who on paper is one of the most objectionable, casually racist and misogynistic characters ever to grace crime fiction- I loved him. With each foolhardy pronouncement, cutting comment or insensitive reaction, he endeared himself to me even more, exposing his charmless self, and blinkered idiocy at every turn. Except, more importantly, when it really matters- when he has to think on his feet to protect himself or his colleagues, or when certain chickens come home to roost and we see the man behind the mask of stupidity. Brilliantly done, and another stand-out feature of this gripping slice of Scandi-noir. Can thoroughly recommend this one.
And so to Hiekkapelto’s central character, Anna Fekete, who combines the elements of silk and steel in equal measure. A focused, highly professional police officer, and meticulous in her approach to the cases she faces, with a sharp and naturally inquisitive mind. Being an outsider herself, due to her Hungarian background, she has a natural affinity to those on the outer reaches of Finnish society, and thus a fairer view of the immigration issues. She’s fairly well-respected, and for the most part enjoys a comfortable relationship with her colleagues, but in true crime fiction style she has two Achilles heels. One is her irresponsible, alcoholic brother Akos, and the other, her exceptionally misguided choices of romantic entanglements, which leads to much self-recrimination and sleepless nights. For the most part, I didn’t particularly feel the need for the latter, as her life experience as a non-native Finn, her relationship with her brother, and the very nature of her profession, provided more than enough points of interest. But I concede it is always nice to poke at useless men with a sharp stick. Talking of useless men, I must mention my favourite character, detective Esko Niemi, who on paper is one of the most objectionable, casually racist and misogynistic characters ever to grace crime fiction- I loved him. With each foolhardy pronouncement, cutting comment or insensitive reaction, he endeared himself to me even more, exposing his charmless self, and blinkered idiocy at every turn. Except, more importantly, when it really matters- when he has to think on his feet to protect himself or his colleagues, or when certain chickens come home to roost and we see the man behind the mask of stupidity. Brilliantly done, and another stand-out feature of this gripping slice of Scandi-noir. Can thoroughly recommend this one.
October 14, 2015
Thriller set in Finland (cold and foreboding… but with a social conscience)
The Defenceless is very much in the genre of the best Scandinavian noir… Contrasting detectives – Anna Fekete and Esko Niemi – work on two cases that overlap. One is an old man found dead on a road – apparently run over by a Hungarian au pair – and the other is an investigation into the drug dealing activities of an immigrant gang. The story moves at pace, and comes to a thrilling – and somewhat unexpected – finale. It is well thought through, well written (and well translated).
But The Defenceless is a great deal more than just an excellent thriller. It is very definitely a book with a social conscience. Anna is the ‘good’ detective (although far from perfect) and Esko is the ‘flawed’. One of the suspects interviewed by the police is a young Afghan boy who is an illegal immigrant into Finland. The boy has a big drug problem, but is essentially a good person. Anna, herself an immigrant from the Balkans, tries to take him under her wing. Esko mocks with the racial and religious stereotyping that typify a person of his beliefs. [Yet, incidentally, Esko is not bad – he is ‘flawed’ in the way that will be familiar to many a follower of current fictional detectives. He also has the obligatory alcohol problem]. Attitudes to refugees and immigrants are fully debated in the book with some interesting conclusions. I have been reading The Defenceless at a time when the current refugee and immigrant crisis is consuming Europe – and it all seems very pertinent…especially if, as mooted, people are to be dispersed to countries and populations where they will not be welcome. A subject that is not going to go away.
In TripFiction terms of a location based novel, The Defenceless scores highly. It is set in Northern Finland as winter moves into spring – and as the snow begins to melt. One particular section where Anna skis across the frozen sea to a small island, and then gets lost in a forest, is especially evocative. One can almost feel the icy wind on her face… Hiekkapelto lives on the island of Hailuoto, itself in Northern Finland, and she clearly uses her local knowledge and experiences to good effect in her descriptions.
The Defenceless is a really good read – thanks to Kati Hiekkapelto, but also to the translator David Hackston.
This review first appeared on our blog: http://www.tripfiction.com/thriller-s...
The Defenceless is very much in the genre of the best Scandinavian noir… Contrasting detectives – Anna Fekete and Esko Niemi – work on two cases that overlap. One is an old man found dead on a road – apparently run over by a Hungarian au pair – and the other is an investigation into the drug dealing activities of an immigrant gang. The story moves at pace, and comes to a thrilling – and somewhat unexpected – finale. It is well thought through, well written (and well translated).
But The Defenceless is a great deal more than just an excellent thriller. It is very definitely a book with a social conscience. Anna is the ‘good’ detective (although far from perfect) and Esko is the ‘flawed’. One of the suspects interviewed by the police is a young Afghan boy who is an illegal immigrant into Finland. The boy has a big drug problem, but is essentially a good person. Anna, herself an immigrant from the Balkans, tries to take him under her wing. Esko mocks with the racial and religious stereotyping that typify a person of his beliefs. [Yet, incidentally, Esko is not bad – he is ‘flawed’ in the way that will be familiar to many a follower of current fictional detectives. He also has the obligatory alcohol problem]. Attitudes to refugees and immigrants are fully debated in the book with some interesting conclusions. I have been reading The Defenceless at a time when the current refugee and immigrant crisis is consuming Europe – and it all seems very pertinent…especially if, as mooted, people are to be dispersed to countries and populations where they will not be welcome. A subject that is not going to go away.
In TripFiction terms of a location based novel, The Defenceless scores highly. It is set in Northern Finland as winter moves into spring – and as the snow begins to melt. One particular section where Anna skis across the frozen sea to a small island, and then gets lost in a forest, is especially evocative. One can almost feel the icy wind on her face… Hiekkapelto lives on the island of Hailuoto, itself in Northern Finland, and she clearly uses her local knowledge and experiences to good effect in her descriptions.
The Defenceless is a really good read – thanks to Kati Hiekkapelto, but also to the translator David Hackston.
This review first appeared on our blog: http://www.tripfiction.com/thriller-s...
October 1, 2015
A brilliant read. Cleverly plotted with a great character presence. A great pace and never trips over it's heels. A must read for any crime fiction fan - and Nordic police procedural. Full praise for Kati Hiekkapelto, and another great novel from Orenda Books. Excellent!!
August 4, 2020
Even if Katii Hiekkapelto’s The Defenceless wasn’t a splendid example of Nordic Noir, you would still treasure the sureness of plot and characterization. Anna is appearing in her third outing as a heavy drinking ex-Yugoslav detective from Hungary living in Finland. Yes, all of the above.
And what are the problems in contemporary Finland? Heroin and illegal immigration. Along with loneliness, alcoholism, extortion, slowing down for a herd of reindeer on the road. You thought Ibsen was bleak? Ibsen is a musical comedy compared to life here.
Hiekkapelto is adept in striking her characters in bold relief. She makes us see each one from the Afghani pizza shop owners to the burnt out old school cop to the pick up scene in the scuzzy bars. And there are no holes in the plot. Hiekkapelto weaves her fiction into a flawless cloth.
Her descriptions of the bleak Finnish weather are brilliant, even at their most depressing. She praises the snowy slush of May as a harbinger of summer.
I am compelled to go back and read the first two in this series.
And what are the problems in contemporary Finland? Heroin and illegal immigration. Along with loneliness, alcoholism, extortion, slowing down for a herd of reindeer on the road. You thought Ibsen was bleak? Ibsen is a musical comedy compared to life here.
Hiekkapelto is adept in striking her characters in bold relief. She makes us see each one from the Afghani pizza shop owners to the burnt out old school cop to the pick up scene in the scuzzy bars. And there are no holes in the plot. Hiekkapelto weaves her fiction into a flawless cloth.
Her descriptions of the bleak Finnish weather are brilliant, even at their most depressing. She praises the snowy slush of May as a harbinger of summer.
I am compelled to go back and read the first two in this series.
June 26, 2018
Kryminał Kati Hiekkapelto skupia się bardziej na warstwie obyczajowej, co jest dość interesującym odstępstwem. Niestety, wątek kryminalny nie jest najlepiej poprowadzony, co rzutuje na moją ocenę książki. Za mało wiadomo o głównej bohaterce. Nie mam nic przeciwko, gdy historia bohaterki i jej przeszłość są enigmatyczne, ale nie powinny takie pozostawać do samego końca. Nie wiem, kto wpadł na pomysł, żeby zamiast pierwszego tomu przetłumaczyć drugi, ale to kretynizm w czystej postaci. Pozostaje pogratulować wydawcy pomyślunku.
August 10, 2022
This one started out slow and I didn’t think I would like it. The story unfolded well and it ended up being pretty good.
November 10, 2015
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Finland. When a Hungarian girl runs over an old man on the road, it turns out that the man has already been dead. Murdered!
Senior Constable Anna Fekete is called for the road accident because of her Hungarian origin. But knowing the Hungarian language isn't the only thing that connects her with this case. Soon the murder becomes her priority case that starts to reveal much more than a dead body on the road.
Sammy arrives in Finland hidden in a truck like many immigrants like him before. He runs away from war in Pakistan and leaves behind him his family. But the dream for the promised land soon becomes nightmare. Sammy becomes drug addict and a criminal. Few robberies here and there, just to get the dose he needs. But murder was never on his mind!
An old lady is missing. A neighbor from the building where the man found on the road lived. Is there a connection?
When two girls find a bloody knife in the woods, no one knows who the blood is from. But very soon, Anna starts to connect the dots.
Anna has to deal with her own skeletons in the closet. She is an immigrant from Serbia, part of Hungarian minority that lives in Vojvodina, northern Serbia. One of her brothers dies during the war in the nineties, and her family leaves for Hungary in order to save the other son. Anna leaves for Finland, but she finds no peace there. No matter how much she tries to mix with the rest, she is always the outsider, she is always the immigrant. At least she is a hard-worker, not like her brother who likes to depend on social care.
This is my first book by this author, but it certainly won't be the last. As a lover of Scandinavian crime noir, I've found this book very thrilling and interesting. What starts like a car accident, ends like totally jaw-dropping planned crime. The plot is fast-paced, creepy and sometimes very emotional. Murder is there, also enough blood, mystery is all over the scene. The author also deals with the issue of the immigrants, all from different countries and all there from different reasons. She gives the perspective from the eyes of the immigrants but also from the eyes of the local Finnish people. The ending of the story left me little bit wandering, some things were left untold, but I suppose that was because a sequel it's on its way. I would love to read a sequel of this book.
My opinion: 4,5 / 5.
Finland. When a Hungarian girl runs over an old man on the road, it turns out that the man has already been dead. Murdered!
Senior Constable Anna Fekete is called for the road accident because of her Hungarian origin. But knowing the Hungarian language isn't the only thing that connects her with this case. Soon the murder becomes her priority case that starts to reveal much more than a dead body on the road.
Sammy arrives in Finland hidden in a truck like many immigrants like him before. He runs away from war in Pakistan and leaves behind him his family. But the dream for the promised land soon becomes nightmare. Sammy becomes drug addict and a criminal. Few robberies here and there, just to get the dose he needs. But murder was never on his mind!
An old lady is missing. A neighbor from the building where the man found on the road lived. Is there a connection?
When two girls find a bloody knife in the woods, no one knows who the blood is from. But very soon, Anna starts to connect the dots.
Anna has to deal with her own skeletons in the closet. She is an immigrant from Serbia, part of Hungarian minority that lives in Vojvodina, northern Serbia. One of her brothers dies during the war in the nineties, and her family leaves for Hungary in order to save the other son. Anna leaves for Finland, but she finds no peace there. No matter how much she tries to mix with the rest, she is always the outsider, she is always the immigrant. At least she is a hard-worker, not like her brother who likes to depend on social care.
This is my first book by this author, but it certainly won't be the last. As a lover of Scandinavian crime noir, I've found this book very thrilling and interesting. What starts like a car accident, ends like totally jaw-dropping planned crime. The plot is fast-paced, creepy and sometimes very emotional. Murder is there, also enough blood, mystery is all over the scene. The author also deals with the issue of the immigrants, all from different countries and all there from different reasons. She gives the perspective from the eyes of the immigrants but also from the eyes of the local Finnish people. The ending of the story left me little bit wandering, some things were left untold, but I suppose that was because a sequel it's on its way. I would love to read a sequel of this book.
My opinion: 4,5 / 5.
September 16, 2015
Finland has many different sides to it that most of us will never see….
Visit the locations in the book: Defenceless booktrail
Who would have thought that one apartment building in the centre of a Finnish city could be so ‘varied’? A microcosm of so many nationalities, society problems and a haven of the city’s underbelly.
The issues which result from this apartment, from this city are made up of various issues which live side by side in this cramped and cold world. Issues such as cultural dislocation – where a person is forced to leave their entire world, their life and some part of their identity behind in order to start a new life, to escape religious or some other kind of persecution.
This is a crime novel with a difference. Not your typical Nordic Noir as it is much more multilayered and complex which elevates it to a whole new level. The characters and setting from the Hummingbird are back but this is a whole new meaning of the word ‘ underbelly’
Anna is a fascinating character. Where does she fit it and how can she settle in Finland when her own identity and that of her country keeps changing. Even the name of the country continues to change. Such a background gives her empathy and understanding but a whole other set of problems which I found very interesting. Just how do you work to help people like Sammy and solve crimes when your own story is just as tangled?
The problems faced by Finland are of course problems which cross borders and these are all very topical subjects at the moment which makes this novel particularly timely.
Anna has some tough issues to deal with – alcohol being one of the most confused – for her own brother returns to Hungary and her role of helping Gabriella and Sammy are fraught with conflict.
Immigrants and drug gangs, not to mention the cold and biting weather makes for one heck of a backdrop to a complex and ultimately satisfying read.
Visit the locations in the book: Defenceless booktrail
Who would have thought that one apartment building in the centre of a Finnish city could be so ‘varied’? A microcosm of so many nationalities, society problems and a haven of the city’s underbelly.
The issues which result from this apartment, from this city are made up of various issues which live side by side in this cramped and cold world. Issues such as cultural dislocation – where a person is forced to leave their entire world, their life and some part of their identity behind in order to start a new life, to escape religious or some other kind of persecution.
This is a crime novel with a difference. Not your typical Nordic Noir as it is much more multilayered and complex which elevates it to a whole new level. The characters and setting from the Hummingbird are back but this is a whole new meaning of the word ‘ underbelly’
Anna is a fascinating character. Where does she fit it and how can she settle in Finland when her own identity and that of her country keeps changing. Even the name of the country continues to change. Such a background gives her empathy and understanding but a whole other set of problems which I found very interesting. Just how do you work to help people like Sammy and solve crimes when your own story is just as tangled?
The problems faced by Finland are of course problems which cross borders and these are all very topical subjects at the moment which makes this novel particularly timely.
Anna has some tough issues to deal with – alcohol being one of the most confused – for her own brother returns to Hungary and her role of helping Gabriella and Sammy are fraught with conflict.
Immigrants and drug gangs, not to mention the cold and biting weather makes for one heck of a backdrop to a complex and ultimately satisfying read.
April 3, 2017
The Defenceless is an amazing novel which covers a lot of ground effortlessly or so it seems as I'm sure such effortlessness takes much hard work. Anna Fakete is tasked with investigating a road accident where a Hungarian au pair runs over an unidentified old man. At the same time her partner Esko Niemi is investigating an international gang, The Black Cobras, who are trying to establish themselves in Finland. The link to both cases is Sammy, a drug addicted Pakistani Christian who is on the run after his asylum request is denied.
The plot is gripping with twist upon twist as the old man's death becomes a murder investigation and I defy any reader to foresee the outcome but the real strength of this novel lies in the characterisation. Sammy's story is heartbreaking, very topical and unfortunately all too common - there is no preaching as Ms Hiekkapelto lets the situation and Sammy's desperation speak for themselves and it makes for very powerful reading. Anna Fekete is the archetypal outsider. She too is an immigrant, albeit a legal one, and from a minority background, in her case a Hungarian Yugoslav when she left what is now Serbia but she doesn't really feel settled in either community. She longs for her family and friends in Serbia but her sensibilities are now more Finnish so she doesn't fit in and is very lonely. Esko, her work partner, is also a lonely, old fashioned man with most of the stereotypical cop's vices - poor diet, drink, no exercise and a dogged determination to get the job done - and a strong streak of misogyny and racism and yet he is my favourite character because he is self aware and his prejudices are not so deep that they extend to individual people he knows (like Anna).
I heartily recommend The Defenceless as an excellent, thought provoking read.
The plot is gripping with twist upon twist as the old man's death becomes a murder investigation and I defy any reader to foresee the outcome but the real strength of this novel lies in the characterisation. Sammy's story is heartbreaking, very topical and unfortunately all too common - there is no preaching as Ms Hiekkapelto lets the situation and Sammy's desperation speak for themselves and it makes for very powerful reading. Anna Fekete is the archetypal outsider. She too is an immigrant, albeit a legal one, and from a minority background, in her case a Hungarian Yugoslav when she left what is now Serbia but she doesn't really feel settled in either community. She longs for her family and friends in Serbia but her sensibilities are now more Finnish so she doesn't fit in and is very lonely. Esko, her work partner, is also a lonely, old fashioned man with most of the stereotypical cop's vices - poor diet, drink, no exercise and a dogged determination to get the job done - and a strong streak of misogyny and racism and yet he is my favourite character because he is self aware and his prejudices are not so deep that they extend to individual people he knows (like Anna).
I heartily recommend The Defenceless as an excellent, thought provoking read.
January 11, 2016
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After completing this book I see how it was awarded the best Finnish Crime Novel of 2014. Wonderfully written, thought-provoking as the widely controversial issue of immigration is addressed. Hiekkapelto’s smart narrative with immigration weaved throughout will cause the reader to consider their thoughts on this highly contentious topic regardless of your geographical location.
Anne Fekete is somewhat of an enigma. We learn just enough of her to stir our curiosity. She’s a competent investigator, respects her position but she struggles with her private life. She’s a woman who has carved a career with numerous sacrifices, she’s lonely and fighting to find her place as an immigrant yet at times feels Finnish. Her battles take a toll as she contends with these ongoing issues and her quest for inner peace and balance.
Hiekkapelto delivers more than a crime thriller, she does an exceptional job sketching characters, their challenges and position perplexing her audience. She draws enough of both plot and character back story’s sans dramatics to pique readers interest and curiosity.
Fantastic crime thriller from an authoress not lacking boldness and freshness. Kati Hiekkapelto adds diversity and sophistication to already well crafted noir.
Fans of crime thrillers craving more from the narrative and cast in a foreign setting, this is a must add to your TBR. This is the second installment in a series and it read fine as a standalone. I will be reading previous and following books in this series, huge fan of both author and character.
After completing this book I see how it was awarded the best Finnish Crime Novel of 2014. Wonderfully written, thought-provoking as the widely controversial issue of immigration is addressed. Hiekkapelto’s smart narrative with immigration weaved throughout will cause the reader to consider their thoughts on this highly contentious topic regardless of your geographical location.
Anne Fekete is somewhat of an enigma. We learn just enough of her to stir our curiosity. She’s a competent investigator, respects her position but she struggles with her private life. She’s a woman who has carved a career with numerous sacrifices, she’s lonely and fighting to find her place as an immigrant yet at times feels Finnish. Her battles take a toll as she contends with these ongoing issues and her quest for inner peace and balance.
Hiekkapelto delivers more than a crime thriller, she does an exceptional job sketching characters, their challenges and position perplexing her audience. She draws enough of both plot and character back story’s sans dramatics to pique readers interest and curiosity.
Fantastic crime thriller from an authoress not lacking boldness and freshness. Kati Hiekkapelto adds diversity and sophistication to already well crafted noir.
Fans of crime thrillers craving more from the narrative and cast in a foreign setting, this is a must add to your TBR. This is the second installment in a series and it read fine as a standalone. I will be reading previous and following books in this series, huge fan of both author and character.
August 19, 2021
Po perkūnais! Rašau apžvalgą ir kai kurie dalykai, vykstantys šioje knygoje taip stipriai sutampa su tuo, kas vyksta ar visai neseniai vyko pasaulyje. Apie ką aš? Apie policininkų ir kitų, pagalbą turinčių suteikti žmonių toleranciją ir šališkumą. Ar gali rasistas policininkas gerai atlikti savo darbą? Arba toks, kuris yra griežtai nusistatęs prieš visus svetimšalius?
Man labai patiko pirmoji knyga „Kolibris“, o štai antrojoje dalyje Ana Faketė su savo labai netolerantišku partneriu Esku tiria kelias bylas: nelaimingą atsitikimą ar avariją, kurios metu partrenktas vyras, tačiau nėra jokių pėdsakų. O kur dar narkotikų irštvoje sulaikytas pakistanietis... Ana su Esku netrunka suvesti galų, jog visos šios bylos galimai yra susijusios.
Detektyvo pradžia žadėjo labai daug, ypač man patinka tai, kiek daug dėmesio ši rašytoja skiria socialinėms problemoms ir diskusijai apie tai, kaip jas būtų galima išspręsti. Taip pat šiose knygose tiek nusikaltimas, tiek asmeninis detektyvės gyvenimas yra lygiaverčiai, o tai man irgi patinka, nes veikėja tampa tikresne, ja lengviau patikėti. Tokie tyrėjai neatrodo kaip supermenai, o kaip paprasti žmonės su savo galvos skausmais.
Vis tik antroji dalis man pasirodė gerokai silpnesnė už pirmąją, tad jei ne Anos ir Esko personažai ir socialinės problemos, labai gerai apie šį detektyvą nė nekalbėčiau. Skaitėsi lengvai, peno apmąstymams netrūko, to visai ir užteko, kad norėčiau skaityti ir trečią dalį.
Susitikime instagrame:
www.instagram.com/gretabrigita.lt
Visas apžvalgas rasite čia:
www.gretabrigita.lt
Leidyklos dovana.
Man labai patiko pirmoji knyga „Kolibris“, o štai antrojoje dalyje Ana Faketė su savo labai netolerantišku partneriu Esku tiria kelias bylas: nelaimingą atsitikimą ar avariją, kurios metu partrenktas vyras, tačiau nėra jokių pėdsakų. O kur dar narkotikų irštvoje sulaikytas pakistanietis... Ana su Esku netrunka suvesti galų, jog visos šios bylos galimai yra susijusios.
Detektyvo pradžia žadėjo labai daug, ypač man patinka tai, kiek daug dėmesio ši rašytoja skiria socialinėms problemoms ir diskusijai apie tai, kaip jas būtų galima išspręsti. Taip pat šiose knygose tiek nusikaltimas, tiek asmeninis detektyvės gyvenimas yra lygiaverčiai, o tai man irgi patinka, nes veikėja tampa tikresne, ja lengviau patikėti. Tokie tyrėjai neatrodo kaip supermenai, o kaip paprasti žmonės su savo galvos skausmais.
Vis tik antroji dalis man pasirodė gerokai silpnesnė už pirmąją, tad jei ne Anos ir Esko personažai ir socialinės problemos, labai gerai apie šį detektyvą nė nekalbėčiau. Skaitėsi lengvai, peno apmąstymams netrūko, to visai ir užteko, kad norėčiau skaityti ir trečią dalį.
Susitikime instagrame:
www.instagram.com/gretabrigita.lt
Visas apžvalgas rasite čia:
www.gretabrigita.lt
Leidyklos dovana.
October 9, 2014
Vaikka ensimmäinen sarjan kirja (Kolibri) ei kuulunut suosikkeihin, halusin kuitenkin lukea uuden osan, koska tykästyin päähenkilöön, kolmekymppiseen rikosetsivään. Ja täytyy sanoa, että ainakin minun mielestä tämä oli selvästi parempi. Rikostarinan loppuratkaisu ei ehkä ollut parasta jännitystä, mutta tarinallisesti kirja toimi paremmin, eikä päähenkilö pettänyt edelleenkään :). Vain lopussa hänen elässään tapahtuvasta käänteestä en välttämättä niin innostu, mutta katsotaan, miten Hiekkapelto tätä käännettä jatkaa.
On varmaan luonnollista, että kirjailija kehittyy matkan varrella. Viimeaikoina olen huomannut samaa kehitystä Keplerin kirjoissa, toinen toistaan parempia. Toisaalta olen miettinyt, käykö myös päinvastoin. Tietyn pisteen ylitettyä kääntyy suunta alaspäin. Ainakin omasta mielestäni vanhan supersuosikkini Leena Lehtolaisen Maria Kalliot ja Liza Marklundin Annika -kirjoissa olen kokenut viimeisten osien olleen lähinnä tylsiä. Voi tietysti olla, että kyse on tavastani mieltyä päähenkilöihin, ennen kaikkea heidän yksityiseen puoleen. Ja näin tylsästi sanottuna, mielestäni perheenperustaminen ja perhe-elämän vakiintuminen on aika usein heikentänyt päähenkilön kiinnostavuutta. Ehkä johtuu omasta elämästä? Mutta oli miten oli, uutta Hiekkapeltoa odotellessa :)
On varmaan luonnollista, että kirjailija kehittyy matkan varrella. Viimeaikoina olen huomannut samaa kehitystä Keplerin kirjoissa, toinen toistaan parempia. Toisaalta olen miettinyt, käykö myös päinvastoin. Tietyn pisteen ylitettyä kääntyy suunta alaspäin. Ainakin omasta mielestäni vanhan supersuosikkini Leena Lehtolaisen Maria Kalliot ja Liza Marklundin Annika -kirjoissa olen kokenut viimeisten osien olleen lähinnä tylsiä. Voi tietysti olla, että kyse on tavastani mieltyä päähenkilöihin, ennen kaikkea heidän yksityiseen puoleen. Ja näin tylsästi sanottuna, mielestäni perheenperustaminen ja perhe-elämän vakiintuminen on aika usein heikentänyt päähenkilön kiinnostavuutta. Ehkä johtuu omasta elämästä? Mutta oli miten oli, uutta Hiekkapeltoa odotellessa :)
July 20, 2015
Excellent police procedural with a deft social commentary in the background. The author's confidence has grown since the first book, the storyline is strong and the characters are stronger than ever. A delight.
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