The Lion's Mouth

December 14, 2015
First published in Norway in 1997 and coauthored with Reiss-Andersen, Edgar-finalist Holt’s compelling, character-driven fourth Hanne Wilhelmsen novel (after 2013’s Death of the Demon) delivers a one-two punch: first, the fatal shooting of Norwegian prime minister Birgitte Volter at her desk by a killer who seemingly vanishes without a trace; then, days later, the death of a Supreme Court judge in mysterious circumstances. And despite unprecedented efforts by the police and Security Service—with no lack of conspiracy theories by pundits, who point the finger at everyone from right-wing extremists to mysterious forces linked to a controversial probe into the deaths of at least 800 Norwegian children decades earlier—it looks like an investigation in danger of going nowhere fast. But as series fans know, smart money doesn’t bet against Oslo’s Chief Insp. Hanne Wilhelmsen, who’s officially on extended leave. Holt uses her surprising plot to highlight the nature of power and the extent to which it can corrupt.

This audiobook collaboration elevates listeners to another sphere. Number 4 in the Hanne Wilhelmsen series transports listeners to a tumultuous Norway after the murder of the prime minister. It's not clear whether the killing was a political assassination or personal revenge. Chief Inspector Wilhelmsen, intends to find out. Narrator Rosalyn Landor uses finely honed skills, among them pacing, tone, accent, and pitch, to expertly portray the various characters and perspectives as well as the mysterious atmosphere of this thriller. Her portrayal of the colorful detective Billy T. is especially noteworthy. Landor accentuates the spectrum of personality in this seemingly contradictory character. A stellar narration is guaranteed to keep the pulse pounding. J.F. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine