Arnaldur Indriðason

Arnaldur Indriðason is a renowned Icelandic writer, best known for his crime novels featuring the protagonist Detective Erlendur. Born on January 28, 1961, in Reykjavík, Iceland, he has become one of the most popular authors in Iceland and has gained international acclaim. His works have been translated into multiple languages, and he has received numerous awards, including the Nordic Council's Literature Prize and the CWA Gold Dagger.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Jar City

    Cover of 'Jar City' by Arnaldur Indriðason

    In this gripping Icelandic crime novel, a seasoned detective investigates the murder of an elderly man, only to uncover a web of long-buried secrets. As the detective delves deeper into the case, he discovers a connection to a decades-old unsolved rape, a mysterious genetic condition, and a hidden "jar city" of preserved human tissue samples. The investigation challenges the detective to confront ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic privacy and the ghosts of the past, while navigating the complexities of his own personal life. The novel intertwines a compelling mystery with the stark atmosphere of Iceland, creating a dark and thought-provoking narrative that keeps the reader engaged until the very end.

    The 5456th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. Silence Of The Grave

    Cover of 'Silence Of The Grave' by Arnaldur Indriðason

    In this gripping crime novel, a skeleton is discovered half-buried in a construction site on the outskirts of Reykjavik, leading Detective Erlendur and his team on a haunting journey into Iceland's past. As they dig deeper, the investigation intertwines with a decades-old mystery involving domestic violence, unresolved family secrets, and the enduring impact of war. The narrative masterfully weaves between the present investigation and the tragic events of the past, revealing the silent horrors that lie buried in human lives. Through its intricate plot and deep exploration of its characters' inner lives, the story not only uncovers the truth behind the bones but also reflects on the nature of violence, memory, and redemption.

    The 6708th Greatest Book of All Time

  3. 3. Strange Shores

    Cover of 'Strange Shores' by Arnaldur Indriðason

    In this gripping installment of a popular Nordic noir series, the protagonist, a deeply introspective detective, embarks on a personal journey that intertwines with an official investigation into a decades-old case. Set against the haunting and desolate backdrop of Iceland's landscape, the detective delves into the mysterious disappearance of a woman during a snowstorm, a case that has remained unsolved and has personal significance to him. As he uncovers long-buried secrets and confronts his own demons, the narrative explores themes of loss, redemption, and the inescapable nature of the past. The detective's quest for truth leads to a poignant and unexpected resolution, making this story a compelling blend of human emotion and suspenseful mystery.

    The 9496th Greatest Book of All Time