Plot Summary

Faceless Killers

Henning Mankell
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Faceless Killers

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991

Book Brief

Henning Mankell

Faceless Killers

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

279

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sweden • 1990s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Faceless Killers follows middle-aged detective Kurt Wallander, living in Ystad, Sweden, as he grapples with personal struggles after a recent divorce while investigating the brutal murder of an elderly couple. The evolving case, complicated by national tensions around immigration and racism, eventually leads Wallander to the discovery of the killers, allowing him to reconnect with his estranged daughter and attempt to stabilize his personal life. The book contains instances of graphic violence and discussions about suicide.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

3.9

84,399 ratings

65%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Henning Mankell's Faceless Killers blends a gripping murder mystery with keen social commentary, establishing a strong start for the Wallander series. Critics praise its atmospheric setting and complex protagonist, though some feel the pacing drags occasionally. Overall, it's a compelling read for fans of Scandinavian crime fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Faceless Killers?

Readers who enjoy intricate crime mysteries with complex characters will find Faceless Killers by Henning Mankell compelling. Ideal for fans of Stieg Larsson's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Jo Nesbø's The Snowman, this novel offers a gritty and atmospheric Scandinavian noir experience with deep social commentary.

3.9

84,399 ratings

65%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

279

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sweden • 1990s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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