The Devil’s Star – Harry Hole Series #5

Author: Jo Nesbø
Genre: Nordic Noir, Thriller, Crime Fiction
452 pages
Publisher: First published in Norway by Aschehoug & Co, 2003
Translator: Don Bartlett

Synopsis
The Devil’s Star by Jo Nesbø starts strong and never lets up. The novel begins with the discovery of a young woman’s body, marked with a pentagram and a red diamond-shaped star left as a calling card. As Harry Hole delves into the case, he discovers that the killer is leaving a trail of clues that lead back to a cold case from his past.

Hole struggles to solve the murders and is haunted by his own demons, including his ongoing battle with alcoholism and his complicated relationship with his former lover, Rakel. As the body count rises, Hole realizes that he is dealing with a cunning and ruthless killer who will stop at nothing to achieve his twisted goals.

As Hole races against time to catch the killer, he is forced to confront his own inner demons and make difficult choices that will determine the outcome of the case. Complicating matters, he’s drawn into a cat and mouse game with his nemesis Tom Waaler, who will stop at nothing to protect his secrets. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and gripping suspense, The Devil’s Star is a thrilling and unforgettable read that will keep you guessing until the very end.

My review
The Devil’s Star by Jo Nesbø is the 5th book in the Harry Hole series. It is a captivating and complex thriller that gripped my attention from the beginning. Nesbø’s storytelling is masterful, and he expertly creates complex and compelling characters that feel incredibly real. Perhaps what strikes me the most is Nesbø’s ability to create a bleak and brooding atmosphere that almost becomes a character itself.

One of the things I loved most about The Devil’s Star is the way Nesbø weaves together multiple plot threads to create a rich and layered story. The mystery surrounding the Devil’s Star killer is intricately plotted, with plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. I also appreciated the way Nesbø delves into Hole’s character, exploring his inner struggles and demons, which adds depth to the story.

The pacing of the novel is excellent, with just the right amount of tension and suspense to keep me eagerly turning the pages. I also enjoyed the setting of Oslo, which Nesbø brings to life with vivid descriptions and a strong sense of place.

Overall, The Devil’s Star is a thrilling and immersive read that I would highly recommend to fans of crime fiction and Nordic Noir. Nesbø is a master of the genre, and this book is a prime example of his talent as a storyteller.

My recommendation: read it!