The Corpse Flower

Early in Danish author Hancock’s gripping debut, Copenhagen journalist Heloise Kaldan receives two letters from Anna Kiel, a wanted murderer. Anna killed a real estate tycoon’s son years earlier and is on the run. Anna claims she and Heloise are connected, and she seems to know personal things about Heloise, such as her lucky number and her favorite flower. Heloise starts looking into Anna’s case by reaching out to Urlich Andersson, the journalist who originally covered the murder. Ulrich warns Heloise to stay away from the story since her life could be in danger. When Anna posts a picture of Heloise’s apartment on social media, Heloise is convinced Anna is breaking in and calls the police. She’s forced to tell Det. Sgt. Erik Schäfer about the letters, and they start sharing information. Soon, one dark turn leads to another, and Heloise follows a lead to Paris, where she comes face-to-face with Anna and learns their connection is deeper and more disturbing than she could have imagined. Assured prose matches the intricate plot. Hancock is off to a strong start. Agent: Anna Frankl, Nordin Agency (Sweden). (Oct.)