Jo Nesbo
With his eight internationally acclaimed crime novels featuring Detective Harry Hole, Jo Nesbø has achieved an unparalleled success both in his native country Norway and abroad, winning the hearts of critics, booksellers and readers alike. Translated into more than forty languages, awarded a whole range of awards and boasting record-breaking sales, Nesbø has been lavishly praised by international critics for broadening the scope of the contemporary crime novel, and is today regarded as one the best crime writers of our time.
What genre does Jo Nesbo write?
Jo Nesbo is best known for crime fiction and Nordic noir, writing gritty police procedurals and psychological thrillers.
What is the Harry Hole series and what order should I read it in?
The Harry Hole series follows detective Harry Hole across multiple novels. A commonly used reading order begins with The Bat (Book 1), then Cockroaches (Book 2), The Redbreast (Book 3), Nemesis (Book 4), The Devil's Star (Book 5), The Redeemer (Book 6), The Snowman (Book 7), The Leopard (Book 8), Phantom (Book 9), Police (Book 10), The Thirst (Book 11) and Knife (Book 12). Newer Harry Hole titles can be read after those entries.
Does Jo Nesbo write stand-alone novels as well as series books?
Yes. In addition to the Harry Hole series, Nesbo has written stand-alone thrillers and other works, including titles such as Blood Ties, The Son, The Kingdom and his reimagining of Macbeth.
Where should a new reader start with Jo Nesbo's work?
If you want series continuity, start with The Bat (Book 1) and read the Harry Hole books in order. If you prefer a single self-contained story, try one of his stand-alone thrillers such as Blood Ties or The Son.
Has Jo Nesbo received international recognition for his work?
Yes. His books have been translated into more than forty languages, he has won multiple awards, and he is widely regarded as a leading contemporary crime writer.