HELLE S HOUND

I didn't realise, until I was a couple of chapters in, that Helle's Hound is actually part of a series. As it is book #2 however, I didn't feel as though I'd missed anything crucial. I do really want to read book #1 though.
Back to Helle's Hound.

Book Review: Helle’s Hound by Oskar Jensen 🔎📚

Rating: 4 stars

I recently finished Helle’s Hound by Oskar Jensen, and I have to say, it was a refreshing and enjoyable read. This witty murder mystery follows Danish art historian Torben Helle as he stumbles into a puzzling case involving the death of his mentor, Dame Charlotte Lazerton. Dame Charlotte, an eminent figure in the art world with a shadowy Cold War past, is found dead — partially eaten by her own Irish wolfhound, Mortimer. While the police chalk her death up to natural causes, Torben suspects foul play and embarks on an investigation that quickly spirals into a tangled web of academic rivalries and old espionage grudges. 🕵️‍♂️🐕

What I really appreciated about this book was how it cleverly blends the classic elements of a Golden Age whodunit with a modern twist — all set against a Scandinavian backdrop that fans of Nordic Noir will recognize (and enjoy). Torben, despite being completely out of his depth as an amateur detective, is a charming and relatable protagonist. His partnership with Leyla, an old friend, adds a nice dynamic that keeps the story engaging. 🇩🇰📚

The plot is well-crafted and intelligent, with plenty of twists that kept me guessing without feeling contrived. Plus, the cast of characters is memorable and well-drawn, making the mystery not just about whodunnit but also about the complex relationships and motivations behind the crime. 🔍✨

Also, I can’t help but mention the book’s cover — it’s absolutely delightful and really caught my eye right away. All in all, Helle’s Hound is a thoroughly entertaining mystery that I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys a smart, character-driven whodunnit with a bit of Scandinavian flair. I’m definitely looking forward to more adventures with Torben Helle. 🎨📖

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️