Where the Shadows Lie
Library Journal
Boston detective Magnus Jonson, an Icelandic American, is sent on temporary assignment to work with the Icelandic police force after uncovering a police corruption scandal that endangered his life. On arriving in Reykjavík, he immediately joins an investigation into a puzzling death at a lake resort. It turns out a professor was murdered because he possessed rare manuscripts and perhaps something more. What's the motivation—simple theft or cultural pride? In a land where literary sagas are revered, Magnus learns that one long-lost story heavily influenced J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. Magnus must discern if Norse mythology can be the reason people are dying. VERDICT This highly atmospheric and addictive thriller brings in elements that will entice both crime fiction and fantasy readers. If your readers like a treasure-hunting chase, give them this one. With Tolkien groupies, Internet hacking, and revenge, this title has no shortage of appeal. Clearly, Ridpath, the author of eight financial thrillers, has his own trilogy in mind.