Book Review: Reykjavík By Ragnar Jónasson and Katrín Jakobsdóttir

In the rich tapestry of Icelandic literature, Ragnar Jónasson emerges as a beacon of the mystery genre, weaving narratives that are as intricate as they are evocative of Iceland’s enigmatic landscapes. His latest offering, “REYKJAVÍK,” co-authored with the Icelandic Prime Minister, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, is perhaps his most ambitious and finely crafted work to date. This novel is a testament to Jónasson’s reverence for Agatha Christie’s storytelling prowess, dedicating this piece to her legacy, and it’s clear that the homage pays off beautifully.

What is the book Reykjavík about?

“REYKJAVÍK,” a gripping mystery novel by Ragnar Jónasson and Katrín Jakobsdóttir, delves into Iceland’s most captivating unsolved case from 1956—the disappearance of Lára, last seen on Videy Island. Spanning over fifty years, the story interweaves the initial probe by police officer Kristján Kristjánsson with journalist Valur Róbertsson’s 1986 investigation, which reignites interest and leads to unforeseen consequences. This collaboration between Jónasson, an acclaimed mystery writer, and Jakobsdóttir, the Prime Minister of Iceland, combines a Christie-esque whodunit with deep character exploration and a rich depiction of Icelandic life. “REYKJAVÍK” is a masterful blend of suspense, intricate plotting, and the pursuit of justice, making it a compelling read for mystery aficionados and those intrigued by Iceland’s allure.

“REYKJAVÍK” is not just a mystery; it’s a journey through time, spanning half a century, encapsulating the essence of Iceland’s capital through a cold case that refuses to be forgotten. The narrative is a masterful slow-burn, meticulously unraveling a tapestry of clues and suspects that keep the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end. The story’s strength lies not only in its plot but in the depth of its characters, each sharing the spotlight, contributing to the unraveling of a mystery that is as complex as it is compelling.

At the heart of the novel is the disappearance of Lára, a 14-year-old girl in 1956, who vanished while working a summer job on Videy Island. The investigation, led by police officer Kristján Kristjánsson, hits a wall from the onset, marred by uncooperative witnesses and dead ends. The narrative cleverly shifts through the decades, with journalist Valur Róbertsson picking up the thread in 1986, marking Reykjavík’s 200th anniversary with a renewed zeal to solve the mystery. However, the path to the truth is fraught with danger, ultimately leading to Valur’s untimely demise, a pivotal moment that escalates the narrative tension and stakes.

The transition of the investigative baton to Valur’s sister, Sunna, introduces a fresh, aggressive perspective to the story. Sunna’s determination, coupled with her investigative prowess, propels the narrative towards its climax, as she navigates the perilous waters of a mystery that someone is desperate to keep hidden. The character dynamics, especially Sunna’s collaboration with Valur’s girlfriend, Margret, enrich the storyline, providing a multi-faceted view of the investigation and the dangers they face.

“REYKJAVÍK” pays homage to the classic crime genre, blending the intrigue of a whodunit with the meticulous detail of a police procedural. The novel’s pacing, while deliberate, is a testament to the authors’ skill in crafting a narrative that is both engaging and reflective. The slow unraveling of the mystery mirrors the painstaking process of investigation, rewarding readers with a satisfyingly intricate resolution that feels both earned and inevitable.

The collaboration between Ragnar Jónasson and Katrín Jakobsdóttir adds a unique layer to the novel, blending political insight with literary craftsmanship. Their partnership, forged amid the challenges of a global pandemic, demonstrates the power of collaboration in creating a narrative that is as innovative as it is respectful of the genre’s traditions. The authors’ backgrounds—Jónasson’s extensive experience in Icelandic media and literature, and Jakobsdóttir’s academic and political career—lend authenticity and depth to the novel, enriching the narrative with real-world insights into Icelandic society and history.

“REYKJAVÍK” is a novel that transcends the boundaries of the mystery genre, offering readers a deep dive into the heart of Iceland, its culture, and its people, through the lens of a captivating cold case. It’s a story that resonates with the universal themes of loss, justice, and the unyielding pursuit of truth. As a collaboration between two prominent Icelanders, the novel stands as a landmark in Icelandic literature, promising readers a journey that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.

Ragnar Jónasson’s and Katrín Jakobsdóttir’s “REYKJAVÍK” is not just a novel; it’s a tribute to the enduring allure of the mystery genre, a celebration of Icelandic heritage, and a testament to the power of collaboration. It’s a novel that would indeed make Agatha Christie proud, and one can only hope that this is the beginning of more collaborative endeavors between Jónasson and Jakobsdóttir. For fans of Jónasson’s work and newcomers alike, “REYKJAVÍK” is a must-read, offering a masterclass in mystery writing that is as timeless as it is timely.