The Devil’s Star: A Harry Hole Thriller, Book 5

My first exposure to this author was the old fashioned visual experience in taking Nesbo's book, "The Redeemer" to read on vacation. That was such a pleasure I decided to plunge into an audio journey with "The Devil's Star". Sean Barrett added immensely to the "Norwegian" feel of this series by correcting my many mispronunciations from the first book. I wasn't even saying the main characters name - Harry Hole - and the authors name - Jo - correctly.

More importantly I was transported to Norway and a first rate crime fiction novel with interesting characters, complex plot lines and a few surprises. I am now officially hooked on this series and I hope that some of those missing books in the collection can be obtained for the growing legion of Nesbo audible listening fans.

Wish I had listened to this before I heard The Snowman. Now I need to re-listen to it because I think I will appreciate it more. While The Snowman is a fine story of it's own right, hearing The Devil's Star first can only make it a better when you know and understand Harry's backstory. The Devil's Star is a well crafted police procedural and brings Harry's many other issues into the story without weighing down the pace or the listener's enjoyment. I have a few issues with how shallow the criminal element is in this story, but Harry's political/co-worker problem is rich and fills the book with plenty of savory justice and listener enjoyment. This version is well done and I enjoyed the narrator's performance. Now excuse me while I listen to The Snowman again. I'm hoping I'll have to revise my review of Snowman now that I know more about Harry Hole. The Devil's Star is definitely credit worthy.

I've read the series totally out of order, but have enjoyed each Harry Hole misadventure.

Is this review written in code?

NO, but the code that weaves its way thought this book makes it difficult to put down, or turn off, in this case.

You know the kind. You're listening in your car. You arrive at your destination. And yet you cannot get out of your car. It's that kind of story.

And like his other books, this Jo Nesbø story is brilliantly constructed and wonderfully brought to life by Sean Barrett.

I you have been following the Harry Hole series, this is a highlight!

I'm so happy I can add a writer to my favorites. I am never disappointed by a Jo Nesbo book.

Not your typical hero but a complex and tormented character. Good narration and suspenseful pace make for a worthwhile read.