My Review with Spoilers for The Lost House discusses this new January 2025 Nordic Noir suspense story set in winter in Iceland. Yes, it’s chilling. Is it thrilling and should you read it? Let’s discuss!

Jen’s Quick Take on The Lost House by Melissa Larsen

- This Nordic Noir suspense story centers around two mysteries: a family tragedy in 1979 and a current missing persons case, both in Bifröst, a small town in Iceland
- There’s a podcast element that helps drive the plot
- And, because it’s set in February in Iceland, this book is a Chilling Winter Story
- Because of the podcast element and the main character’s investigation of both mysteries (one of which involved her grandmother), this felt a little like an amateur detective story
- I enjoyed the Iceland travelogue and didn’t mind the slower pace
- To be published on January 14, 2025 by Minotaur. Thanks to the publisher for the advance copy for review.
- Also by Melissa Larsen: Shutter, published in 2021 by Berkley.
Review With Spoilers for The Lost House by Melissa Larsen
I really enjoy Nordic Noir stories. The Lost House differs a little from the typical Nordic tropes in that the main character is American.
Agnes, a California native, seems like a true fish out of water in Iceland. But she has roots there: forty years ago, her grandmother Marie and Marie’s infant daughter were found dead.
Nora Carver, a well-known podcaster, is re-visiting the “Frozen Madonna and Child” case, and Agnes is the only family member who agrees to talk to her.
Despite a knee injury that has her popping painkillers, Agnes is drawn into the historic case, and also into the recent disappearance of Ása, a local student.
What I enjoyed about the book:
- Agnes’s injury was a good way to make her vulnerable without the usual trope of making her psychologically unstable (though the painkillers did that a bit)
- There was an interesting push and pull between Agnes, Nora, and the locals, all of whom have strong opinions about the case.
- The ending, while not shocking, was strong.
Spoilers for The Lost House by Melissa Larsen
I wasn’t all that surprised that:
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Did you read this? Do you have other recommendations of Nordic Noir books?
If you love them, check out my list of Favorite Nordic Noir Streaming Shows!

Check out all the new January 2025 mystery and thriller books!
