Hidden in snow

Stockholm police officer Hanna Ahlander, the heroine of this outstanding series launch from Sten (the Sandhamn Murders series), heads home in tears one evening after a conversation with her hated boss, who accused her of being insubordinate and undisciplined, and threatened to fire her unless she seeks employment elsewhere. Hanna isn't sure she can tell her live-in boyfriend, Christian, about the situation, but once back at the apartment they share, the issue becomes moot as Christian makes it clear he's leaving her for another woman; he gives her a week to move out, since it was originally his apartment. Hanna quits her job and moves to Åre, a ski resort where she once unhappily vacationed with her parents, who called her "our little mistake." She winds up joining Åre's tiny police force, headed by Daniel Lindskog, a loving but overworked new father, and together they uncover a grisly murder, violent teenage boozing, and an exploitative trafficking scheme. Readers will root for Hanna as she strives to overcome adversity and prove her worth. Scandi noir fans won't want to miss this one. Agent: Anna Frankl, Nordin Agency (Sweden). (Sept.)

Sten's ("Sandhamn Murders" books) first installment in the "Åre Murders" series, narrated by Laura Jennings, follows the disappearance of 18-year-old Amanda Halverson, who went missing after a winter holiday party in the ski resort of Åre, Sweden. Stockholm police officer Hanna Ahlander is staying at her sister's ski lodge in the area, recovering from job loss and a broken heart. When she hears about Amanda's disappearance, her police training kicks in, and she joins the search. The weather is bitterly cold, with snow and wind hampering the rescue efforts. Hanna ends up joining the Åre police force, working with Detective Inspector Daniel Lindskog to uncover the truth about what happened to Amanda. As they do so, more sinister activities come to light, and Hanna finds that she may have become a target herself. Jennings skillfully portrays Sten's vivid characters and brings out the broad range of emotions and the effect of violence on this small town. VERDICT A perfect recommendation for readers of Scandi noir. Share with fans of Karin Fossum and Sara Blaedel.--Joanna M. Burkhardt