There are several questions raised in this novel, the third in the Harry Hole series. And they apparently can only be answered by Harry Hole, the Norwegian alcoholic detective, if he sobers up. Haunted by the death of his partner he is frustrated after pursuing proof of the identity of her murderer for two years and goes on a four-week binge resulting in his superior finally giving up on Harry and putting papers in for his dismissal. But a three-week reprieve before the final papers can be signed allows Harry to be part of the search for what appears to be a serial murderer.
In the meantime, his relationship with his lover, Rakel, is jeopardized when she, fed up with his drinking and his devotion to the job, asks him to leave. And then Harry continues to pursue the Inspector whom he believes responsible for the death of his key witness in his search for the reason behind his partner’s death. And in this effort, he uncovers a broad conspiracy within the police department.
All these elements make for an extremely complicated novel, almost as complex as Harry himself. But the writing and characters are so well-done that the reader is carried along swiftly to a rousing denouement that only Harry can wrap up.
Jo Nesbo was nominated for an Edgar for best novel this year for “Nemesis.” “The Devil’s Star” should garner it for him next year, and it is highly recommended.
