A review by mshaniak
Blood Ties by Jo Nesbø

challenging dark tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I have self named myself Jo Nesbo’s biggest fan, but this sat on my TBR (I shamefully admit) since its release day back in September. I have read The Kingdom when it came out and then re-read it prior to this one. 
It makes sense to read it in order (for those who ask) even though the sequel can technically be read as a standalone. 

This is happening 8 years later. We still follow the two brothers and all their antics. 
Carl is just a big annoying child and I love how JN portrayed him as such with his growing beer belly etc. he’s not a likeable character. And next to him Roy, the older, grittier, rougher brother seems to be maturing like a good wine. He’s such an opposite to his douchebag brother. You can’t help but like him even though he is who he is 😅
Kurt is another one that I appreciate. He’s just relentless in his pursuit of justice. I really admire his conviction in finding truth and justice when it comes to his father. 

Also loved the dark and heavy atmosphere. A very typical Nordic noir. 


Anyway.. I liked it. Not loved it. But at this point in my life having read and owned every single book JN published, I’ll automatically buy and read whatever else he’s got up his sleeve. I hope for more HH though.