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Books matching: finnish culture

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  1. #1
    Derailed
    Book 10 in the series:Maria Kallio

    Derailed - Maria Kallio by Leena Lehtolainen
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    'Derailed' in the Maria Kallio series by Leena Lehtolainen is a gripping mystery that delves into the life of detective Maria Kallio as she navigates through complex investigations while balancing her personal life. Readers appreciate the intricate plot, the enthralling Finnish setting, and the development of relatable characters. The story unfolds slowly, mixing deepening mystery with the everyday struggles of both professional and personal life, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.


    (Also, see 44 recommendations for the series Maria Kallio )

  2. #2

    The Year of the Hare by Arto Paasilinna
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    'The Year of the Hare' by Arto Paasilinna follows the story of Kaarlo Vatanen, a journalist who hits a young hare with his car, leading to a drastic change in his life. Vatanen decides to leave his job and wife behind, embarking on a journey through the Finnish countryside with the hare as his companion. The narrative is a mix of adventure and introspection, as Vatanen encounters various eccentric characters and experiences while rediscovering himself in the wilderness. The writing style is described as quirky, amusing, and occasionally farcical, capturing the essence of Finnish culture and landscape with a touch of dark humor.

    Two harassed men were driving down a lane. The setting sun was hurting their eyes through the dusty windshield. It was midsummer, but the landscape on this sandy byroad was slipping past their weary e...

  3. #3

    Snow Angels - Inspector Kari Vaara by James Thompson
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    In the book "Snow Angels" by James Thompson, Inspector Kari Vaara investigates the brutal murder of a Somalian refugee turned actress on a reindeer farm in Finland. As the investigation progresses, numerous suspects emerge, including the philandering boyfriend of Vaara's ex-wife, leading to a complex web of deceit and betrayal. Set against the backdrop of perpetual winter in Finnish Lapland, the story delves into Scandinavian politics and the influence of conservative Lutherans, providing a dark and atmospheric setting for the mystery to unfold.

    The writing style in "Snow Angels" is described as detailed and atmospheric, capturing the essence of the long winter nights and the chilling landscape of Finland. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on edge as Inspector Vaara navigates through a series of brutal killings and unexpected revelations, all while grappling with personal connections to the case and the challenges of living in a harsh environment.

    I’M IN HULLU PORO,The Crazy Reindeer, the biggest bar and restaurant in this part of the Arctic Circle. It was remodeled not long ago, but pine boards line the walls and ceiling, like an old Finnish f...

  4. #4

    My First Murder - Maria Kallio by Owen F. Witesman, Leena Lehtolainen
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    'My First Murder' by Leena Lehtolainen is a Finnish detective story featuring rookie detective Maria Kallio investigating the murder of a choir singer, Tommi Peltonen, at a seaside Helsinki villa. The book is described as a police procedural with a classic detective story structure, focusing on a small group of suspects and a puzzle to solve. The writing style is praised for its hard-boiled realism and likable protagonist, Maria Kallio, who navigates through a web of bitterness, passion, and jealousy among the choir members to uncover the truth behind the murder.

    When the telephone rang, I was in the shower rinsing the salt off my skin. I heard my own voice on the answering machine and then a colleague’s urgent message to call him back. I had been able to enjo...

  5. #5

    Travelling Light by Ali Smith, Silvester Mazzarella, Tove Jansson
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    'Travelling Light' by Tove Jansson is a collection of short stories that explore a wide range of themes, from psychological manipulation and trauma to the conditions of growing older and the complexities of human relationships. The writing style is spare, direct, and unsentimental, focusing on concrete particulars and unsentimental realism. Each story demands a response from the reader, provoking emotions, thoughts, and introspection, ultimately highlighting the paradox of human longing for solitude versus the need for connection.


  6. #6

    The Kalevala by Elias Lonnrot
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    The Kalevala by Elias Lonnrot is a Finnish epic poem that captures the Finnish imagination with its tales of Mother Earth's origins, the magical talismanic emblem called the Sampo, and legendary heroic figures like Vainamoinen and Ilmarinen. It weaves together pre and post-Christian stories, drawing readers into a fantastical world filled with adventure, magic, conflicts, and the rich tapestry of Finnish mythology. The book is described as surprisingly easy to read, with a writing style that immerses readers in a strange and dark yet captivating universe, different from other Scandinavian mythologies but equally intriguing.

    The Kalevala is praised for its unique storytelling that delves into human emotions, mysticism, and spirituality, showing a blend of Christian and pagan elements that offer a deep and thought-provoking exploration of comparative religion. Readers find the book to be a hidden treasure, with a strong sense of earlier pagan animism beautifully intertwined with Christian notions. The epic poetry, although challenging at times, is described as beautiful and engaging, offering a glimpse into a world filled with tragedy, poetry, and mythical adventures that leave a lasting impact on those who delve into its pages.

    The Kalevala was composed by the nineteenth-century physician and philologist Elias Lönnrot (1802–1884), who collected folkloric oral poetry among Finnish and Karelian country people in the 1830s and ...

  7. #7

    The Vikings by Neil Oliver
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    Neil Oliver's book on 'The Vikings' provides an in-depth exploration of the Viking culture, history, and influence on the world. Oliver's writing style is engaging and informative, bringing to life the diverse aspects of Viking society across Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. The book delves into the Viking's impact on various regions, their trading activities, exploration, and the blending of their strong Viking blood and DNA into different populations.

    ‘I’ve seen things you people wouldn’t believe. Attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Orion. I watched c-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhäuser Gate. All those moments will be lost in time, l...

  8. #8

    Seven Brothers by Aleksis Kivi
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    Seven Brothers by Aleksis Kivi is a novel set in rural Finland, following the lives of the seven Jukola brothers who are left parentless after their mother's death. The story revolves around their boisterous and loyal nature, as they navigate through adulthood, facing challenges, bickering among themselves, and eventually maturing into responsible individuals. The narrative not only focuses on the brothers' adventures and internal relations but also serves as a parable about life in Finnish rural culture during the 19th century. The novel captures the essence of Finnish countryside life, depicting comical episodes, violent quarrels, and the brothers' journey towards maturity and self-discovery.

    The book is praised for its modern feel, juxtaposing gritty dialogues with beautiful descriptions of the Finnish landscape in a lyrical tone. The character development, particularly the evolution of the seven brothers and the portrayal of strong female characters, adds depth and richness to the story. Despite being published in 1870, Seven Brothers is considered a classic in Finnish literature for its engaging plot, realistic portrayal of rural life, and its exploration of themes such as coming of age, rebellion, and redemption.


  9. Author Michael Booth explores the Nordic countries - Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland - in his book 'The Almost Nearly Perfect People: Behind the Myth of the Scandinavian Utopia'. Booth delves into the cultural curiosities of these countries, shedding light on their quality of life, political systems, and societal norms. Through his own experiences and interactions, Booth provides a nuanced look at the strengths and weaknesses of the Scandinavian nations, challenging the idealized image often portrayed in the media. The book combines humor, historical facts, interviews with locals and experts, and insightful commentary to offer readers a deeper understanding of the Nordic region.

    As the rainclouds finally part to reveal an electric blue, early evening sky, we venture out of the tent sniffing the cool, damp air like nervous rescue animals, turning to savor the last warmth of th...

  10. #10
    Pucking Around
    by: 
    Book 3 in the series:Jacksonville Rays

    Pucking Around - Jacksonville Rays by Emily Rath
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    "Pucking Around" in the series "Jacksonville Rays" by Emily Rath revolves around Rachel, a doctor starting a new job with a brand new hockey team, the Jacksonville Rays. She forms strong bonds with the hockey players, particularly Jake, Caleb, and Ilmari, as their lives become intricately intertwined. The story beautifully explores the relationships between the characters, delving into their individual demons, strengths, and resilience while navigating romance, spicy moments, and emotional challenges.

    The plot of "Pucking Around" is a blend of delicious romance and spice, featuring well-developed characters with unique personalities. The story unfolds seamlessly between drama, steamy scenes, banter, and heartwarming interactions, with a focus on polyamorous relationships and personal growth. Emily Rath's writing style captures the complexities of love, family, and self-discovery, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.


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