Book Review | Outside by Ragnar Jónasson

In a deadly Icelandic snowstorm, four friends on a hunting trip are stuck in a remote location. They seek shelter in an abandoned hut. But nothing prepares them for what’s inside. Tensions rise but what’s inside the cabin isn’t their only problem…

He felt suddenly cold all over and the shivering spread through his body with terrifying speed.

H had never been so afraid in his life.

Outside is super atmospheric, making me feel like I’m stuck in a blizzard in the middle of nowhere! It’s the perfect book to read in winter so you might want to save this for December. Daniel, Helena, Ármann, and Gunnlaugur are long-time friends but lost touch over the years. This trip is intended to be a reunion of sorts, although not all of them are entirely happy to be there. This is an introspective mystery where the reveals change everything! Each character gets a POV so you can see their thoughts about their scary situation.

I thought the premise was great but the story doesn’t live up to its potential. The pacing is slow and vital information is kept from the reader until convenient for the plot. The story involves murder, accidental death, and sexual assault but it doesn’t go deep enough to examine the moral quandaries and consequences for the characters. I liked that the characters are flawed but sadly, I didn’t connect with them. I did find the relationship dynamics interesting and I wish they were explored more. This book will make you think twice about traveling with your friends, especially if you’re keeping secrets from them!

Outside is a chilling Nordic noir for fans of wintry mysteries. If you enjoy the Dark Iceland series, this will be right up your alley!

CW: sexual assault

About the author: Ragnar Jónasson

Photo by Niels Van Djik