Swallow, cat, rose, death

"In his books, Nesser thoroughly searches for the roots of crime in a sick society... He seizes the opportunity to create his distinctive dark poetics - and the result is perfect."

"A gripping book, as mysterious and enticing as its title."

"Nesser writes in such a believable and distinctive style that much other crime fiction, Scandinavian or otherwise, seems like thin gruel by comparison. Nesser's quirky and persistent hero, Commissioner Van Veeteren, is one of the most distinctive protagonists in the detective world. The dark and complicated cases he deals with always have a twisted and rigorous logic whose pattern the commissioner must unravel. The great authority on the subject, Colin Dexter, ranks Van Veeteren among the greatest figures in European detective fiction."

"A story with a perfectly captured atmosphere. Nesser strikes an impressive balance between a suspenseful, intricate plot and vivid characters. His ability to capture subtle psychology and his compelling, nonviolent storytelling make this book an exceptional experience."