I saw this book last year on Merri's (Paisley) blog and made a note to myself to pick it up and read it. Can't believe I read it so closely after reading SILENT IN THE GRAVE as these were some intense reads!
SYNOPSIS: Harald Guntlieb has been brutally murdered and a friend of his is accused of the crime. The family isn't satisifed with the investigation, however, and requests the services of Thora Gudmundsdottir, a local attorney. Matthew Reich is already working on the investigation but needs help navigating through the country as Iceland is completely foreign to him. Their investigation is going to take them along a bizarre and twisted path, a path into the history of Iceland's involvement in witchcraft, sorcery, and even torture.
MY THOUGHTS: The depth of history on Iceland and its history of witchcraft is simply fascinating. I'm unfamiliar with any of the history but the author presents it in an interesting manner. The details are often gory and the murder, along with the physical appearance of Harald prior to his death, are rather gruesome so be forewarned that this is an intense, even bizarre story at times. That is not to say that it isn't good, as it is!
Thora is an intriguing character. The story focuses primarily on the investigation but glimpses into her personal life offer a portrait of a loving and caring mother. The contrast between the relationship Thora has with her son and Amelia Guntlieb has with her son, Harald, is startling. I loved the way Yrsa Sigurdardottir made some very subtle but important statements about family, particularly in the midst of dysfunction.
LAST RITUALS is clearly not a tale that will appeal to all. The gruesome details alone will discourage some readers. The style is very unique as this book has more the feel of literature than your typical thriller. Excellent book and glad I kept this one on the list to read!
Last Rituals
I still remember some of those gruesome details. You have been reading some intense books lately! I just went to the lighter end of the reading spectrum after several intense reads but I do like intense reads.
Iceland has been my fantasy country for many years now. I would love to go there some day. I wish more of their literature was available in the US.
I liked how you mentioned the contrast. I did not even think of that when I was reading but you are so right! I have been fascinated with books about families lately. Not necessarily babies but families.
AKA Merri
Family Challenge Team: The Spine Breakers with my dh Glenn AKA Phaedrus
families
Not sure if the contrast would have hit me if I hadn't read the Deanna Raybourn book first where you brought up the issue about home.
The D2K Paranormal Junkies 2008 Challenge