Jørn Lier Horst

Jørn Lier Horst is one of the most renowned Norwegian crime writers, whose works have captivated readers both in Scandinavia and around the world. Before embarking on his writing career, Horst worked as a police investigator, which lends his novels a unique sense of authenticity and depth—he knows exactly how investigations are carried out in real life. This experience is reflected in the characters and plots he creates, making his stories realistic, gripping, and psychologically accurate.

Horst’s most famous character is detective William Wisting, the central figure in most of his crime novels for adults. Wisting is a conscientious police officer who solves complex cases in a quiet Norwegian coastal town where dark secrets lie beneath the surface. The series weaves together personal dramas and socially critical themes, dealing with issues such as police corruption, media influence, and moral dilemmas.

In addition to adult fiction, Horst has also written for children and young readers—for example, the "Detective Agency No. 2" ("Detektivbyrå nr. 2") series, which has become very popular among younger audiences. These books offer clever mysteries and engaging adventures while also encouraging logical thinking and attention to detail.

Horst’s work has been translated into dozens of languages and has received numerous awards, including several prestigious Scandinavian crime literature prizes. His books are a perfect choice for readers who appreciate meaningful, lifelike, and masterfully written crime stories.