The Stranger 

Inspector Patrik Hedstrom of the Fjällbacka Police Department returns in this latest tale of Swedish small town murder. A tragic car accident leaves a local woman dead and alcohol abuse seems to be the reason for the crash. But, from all accounts, the victim wasn’t a drinker. And post mortem evidence leads Hedstrom to suspect foul play. But before he can fully begin his investigation Fjällbacka is thrown into chaos when a popular reality TV show begins filming there. And, when one of the show’s young cast members is found murdered, Hedstrom and his team find themselves stretched to the limit as they search for the truth behind both deaths—a search that will take them well outside the confines of their little community. Simon Vance’s smooth, leisurely reading fits well with Läckberg’s prose, and capably draws the listener into the story. Vance effortlessly handles Swedish pronunciations and his dialogue is delivered with just enough vocal distinction to avoid confusion, but simple enough to avoid sounding forced. A Pegasus hardcover. (Apr.)