NPR's Book of the Day
In two noir novels, crime lurks beneath small town life in Norway and New England
Mar 21, 2025
Joseph Finder, author of the thriller "The Oligarch's Daughter," discusses the intricacies of evading detection in the digital age while exploring the stark contrasts between typical wealth and oligarch wealth. He shares insights on surveillance and the challenges of living under a new identity. Meanwhile, Jo Nesbø introduces a morally complex character in his novel "Blood Ties," and reflects on advice from Christopher Nolan about crafting relatable protagonists. Both authors reveal how small towns serve as perfect backdrops for dark secrets and thrilling narratives.
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Quick takeaways
- Joseph Finder's novel highlights the tension of living under a new identity amidst surveillance and the dangerous world of Russian oligarchs.
- Jo Nesbø's story emphasizes psychological complexity, making a mass murderer relatable through themes of redemption and familial relationships.
Deep dives
The Thrills of Deception in The Oligarch's Daughter
The novel centers on Grant Anderson, a boat builder who is actually living under an assumed identity named Paul Brightman. He is in hiding from Russian oligarchs and takes great care to maintain his disguise, only accepting cash payments for his work to avoid detection. A significant twist occurs when he falls in love with Tatiana, unaware that she is the daughter of the very oligarch that wants him dead. The complexity of their relationship deepens as Tatiana conceals her true identity for months, creating a high-stakes environment filled with tension and suspense.
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