The problem with having a BA in English is that it's easier to fall into the trap of avoiding genre fiction. I know enough about my likes to know that I enjoy some fantasy and sci-fi, but I have staunchly considered myself to not be mystery reader for quite a while. As I finished this up last night at 1am, I realized that I need to get over myself. This was fantastic, and the only reason I read it was because a friend recommended it -- I had read a synopsis of it somewhere and it just didn't appeal.

The novel, set in Sweden, starts out following two stories - that of a newly-disgraced business journalist, and that of a young, antisocial background check specialist. The bulk of the story follows the journalist, but the two stories eventually come together (structurally, this is done in a very clever way). After being convicted of libel he is hired by the patriarch of a large family-run corporation -- his job is to investigate a 40-year-old murder. (I don't want to tell much more of the story than that, because it will give away too much.)

The story is fast-paced, and has a great twist at the end. This was one of those books that I didn't want to put down (hence the staying up late to finish it). The ending simultaneously disappointed me and was exactly right for the type of novel that this is.

One thing to note is that there is some very disturbing violence in this story. I think most people who regularly watch shows like CSI and Law & Order will be able to handle it. But, again, I don't want to get into specifics because it gives away part of the mystery. If you want to know and don't mind spoilers, just ask.