A review by steveinadelaide
I'm Traveling Alone by Samuel Bjørk

dark emotional tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Samuel Bjørks first novel, "I'm Travelling Alone", is a gripping thriller that will keep you hooked. It tells the story of Holger Munch, the leader of Oslos formed special crime unit. Munch embarks on a journey to investigate the murder of a six-year-old girl on a remote island in Northern Norway. Along the way, he reunites with his partner and top detective, Mia Krüger, who reluctantly agrees to assist him in solving the case. As they dig deeper into their investigation, Munch and Krüger uncover a web of secrets and lies with sinister ties to a religious sect.

Bjørk skillfully crafts a dark and atmospheric setting for his novel. The isolated island in Northern Norway serves as a backdrop for this thrilling tale, and the author's descriptions are vivid and captivating. The characters in "I'm Travelling Alone” are well-rounded and relatable. Munch is a protagonist with his share of flaws, yet he possesses remarkable intelligence and determination. Krüger embodies strength and independence as she fearlessly expresses her opinions. Together, they form a team whose interactions shine brightly throughout the book.

The storyline of "I'm Travelling Alone” is intricate and skillfully crafted. Bjørk manages to keep the reader guessing until the end, with unexpected twists and turns along the way. 

“I’m Travelling Alone” delves into thought-provoking themes such as the nature of evil, the strength of faith, and the significance of family. Although I did have a qualm with the ending, feeling it was somewhat rushed and unsatisfying, it doesn't overshadow the high quality of this remarkable novel.

For enthusiasts of noir thrillers, I highly recommend "I'm Travelling Alone." It offers an exhilarating reading experience filled with suspense and well-developed characters that will captivate you from start to finish.