So what’s it about? We begin by examining the existence of one Sonny Lofthus who’s one of these remarkably laid-back prisoners in what’s supposed to be one of Scandinavia’s superprisons. Such a resonance has also occurred in the boardrooms of Hollywood because Warner Bros bought this book in 2012 and is developing it for a big screen debut sometime in the future.

In spirit, this reminded me of Headhunters which is the other non-Harry Hole novel and which became a wonderful film. Escapes must be possible, bullets will miss their targets, and human hearts prove weak and strong as the situation dictates. But if the plot is going to get everyone relevant to the right places at the right time as the end approaches, physical and emotional laws need to be flexible. In this, you should understand, there’s a considerable lack of plausibility. So if you’re of a nervous disposition and easily shocked, this is not a book you should pick up.Ĭontinuing now with those of you who enjoy a book which explores the darker side of human nature with unbridled enthusiasm, this is a story of revenge and, despite the level of criminality and corruption that’s revealed as the plot unwinds, it speculates on whether taking revenge in cold blood can ever be redemptive. From this you will understand that there’s a significant amount of violence, mayhem, and not a little murder delivered with considerable flair and in often quite stunning detail.

Making no apologies for the alliteration, The Son by Jo Nesbø (Alfred Knopf, 2014) is magnificently malevolent.

There are times when it’s right to begin a review with a headline that will signal whether people want to take the time to read the rest.

The son jo nesbo book review