Thriller novels are a popular genre because of their ability to capture readers’ attention and keep them on edge until the very end. In this article, we will compare two thrilling novels – Snowblind by Ragnar Jonasson and The Incident – Inferno Rising by Lars Emmerich.
Introducing the two novels under review
Snowblind, published in 2015, is the first book in the Dark Iceland series, and is set in a small Icelandic fishing village where a young rookie policeman named Ari Thór Arason is called to investigate a series of seemingly unrelated crimes. The novel is a classic locked room mystery with an interesting set of characters and a brilliantly created an atmospheric setting that adds to the overall creepiness of the novel.
The Incident – Inferno Rising, published in 2021, is the first book in the James Hicks series, and takes readers on a thrilling journey of a former Marine turned mercenary, James Hicks, who is recruited by a shady organization called The Corporation to retrieve a virus that could wipe out the whole world. As Hicks embarks on this mission, he finds himself battling ruthless enemies and trying to stay alive in a world of politics and deceit.
Both novels offer readers a unique and captivating reading experience. While Snowblind is a slow-burning mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end, The Incident – Inferno Rising is a fast-paced action thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Despite their differences in genre and style, both novels share a common thread of well-developed characters and intricate plotlines that will leave readers wanting more.
A brief biography of the authors
Ragnar Jonasson is an Icelandic writer who was born in Reykjavík in 1976. Besides being an author, he has worked as a lawyer, a journalist, and a television news reporter. He is best known for his Dark Iceland series, which has been translated into over 20 languages worldwide.
Lars Emmerich, on the other hand, is a former financial advisor and an American author who has written multiple thrillers. Apart from The Incident – Inferno Rising, he has also written The Demons of Constantinople and the Matt Drake series, which has been critically acclaimed and loved by his readers.
Ragnar Jonasson’s interest in writing started at a young age, and he published his first book at the age of 17. He went on to study law at the University of Iceland and completed his studies in 1999. After working as a lawyer for a few years, he decided to pursue his passion for writing full-time. He has since published several books, including Snowblind, Blackout, and Nightblind, which are all part of the Dark Iceland series.
Lars Emmerich’s writing career began after he left his job as a financial advisor. He started writing as a hobby and eventually decided to pursue it as a full-time career. His books are known for their fast-paced action and intricate plots. In addition to writing, he is also an avid traveler and has visited over 50 countries around the world. He often draws inspiration from his travels and incorporates them into his writing.
The plot overview of Snowblind – Ragnar Jonasson
Snowblind is a chilling mystery novel that is set in Iceland’s darkest winter, where darkness consumed every aspect of life in the small fishing village of Siglufjörður. Ari Thór Arason, a young police officer from Reykjavík, is posted to Siglufjörður, where he has to investigate a few seemingly unrelated cases that eventually lead to a bigger murder mystery. The novel is a classic locked-room mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat till the very end.
The plot overview of Lars Emmerich’s “The Incident – Inferno Rising”
The Incident – Inferno Rising is a thrilling novel that takes readers on a ride of action and adventure. James Hicks, a former Marine, is recruited by the underground organization, The Corporation, to retrieve a deadly virus that could wipe out humanity. As Hicks embarks on this mission, he finds himself entangled in the world of power and politics, where everyone is out to get their hands on the virus. The novel takes readers on a journey through some of the world’s most dangerous and hostile places as Hicks battles his way through deception and betrayal.
The similarities between the two novels
Despite being entirely different stories, there are a few noteworthy similarities between Snowblind and The Incident – Inferno Rising. Both novels have a unique atmosphere that draws readers in and leaves them feeling like they are a part of the story. Both authors do an excellent job of creating well-rounded characters that readers can relate to. Additionally, the authors are adept at immersing the reader in their respective worlds and keeping them engaged from beginning to end.
The differences between the two novels
The primary difference between Snowblind and The Incident – Inferno Rising is their respective genres. Snowblind is more of a classic whodunit, a mystery that gradually builds up to a stunning climax, whereas The Incident – Inferno Rising is a fast-paced, adventurous, and thrilling novel that keeps readers hooked on high-speed action. Another notable difference is their setting. Snowblind is set in a small Icelandic fishing village, while The Incident – Inferno Rising sees James Hicks traveling to some of the world’s most dangerous places.
Writing style comparison between the two authors
Both Ragnar Jonasson and Lars Emmerich are gifted writers who do an outstanding job of creating engrossing stories. They are adept at creating unique atmosphere and settings that immerse the reader in their respective worlds. Ragnar Jonasson’s writing style is subtle and atmospheric, while Lars Emmerich prefers a more fast-paced, action-packed approach to his writing. Both authors’ writing styles, though different, are highly effective in keeping their readers engaged.
Analysis of character development in Snowblind and The Incident – Inferno Rising
Both novels have well-developed characters that readers can relate to. In Snowblind, the main character, Ari Thór Arason, is a young police officer who is trying to find his way in a small town where everyone is connected. His personal life intertwines with his investigation, and as he uncovers more clues, the reader learns more about his character. In The Incident – Inferno Rising, the main character, James Hicks, is a former Marine who is struggling to overcome his past and find a place in the world. As he embarks on his mission, he finds himself battling not just the bad guys, but his inner demons as well. Both authors do an excellent job of creating and developing their respective characters, making them memorable and relatable.
Setting and atmosphere comparison between the two novels
The atmosphere and setting of each novel play a critical role in their respective stories. Snowblind’s setting is colder, darker, and somewhat claustrophobic, with the small Icelandic fishing village providing the stage for the unfolding mystery. The novel’s overwhelming sense of isolation and darkness only enhances its overall creepiness. In contrast, The Incident – Inferno Rising’s setting is more diverse, with James Hicks traveling to several countries worldwide. The author does an excellent job of describing the different locations and the cultures, creating an immersive experience for the reader. Both novels use their respective settings and atmosphere to their advantage, making them an integral part of their respective stories.
Which novel is a better read?
It is tough to compare and declare a clear winner between Snowblind and The Incident – Inferno Rising. Both novels have their unique strengths that make them compelling reads. Snowblind is an atmospheric mystery that builds gradually to a satisfying conclusion, while The Incident – Inferno Rising is a fast-paced thriller that will keep readers at the edge of their seats. Readers who enjoy classic locked-room mysteries would appreciate Snowblind, while readers who enjoy a fast-paced and action-packed thriller would find The Incident – Inferno Rising more to their liking.
Conclusion: Final thoughts on Snowblind and The Incident – Inferno Rising
Overall, Snowblind by Ragnar Jonasson and The Incident – Inferno Rising by Lars Emmerich are both excellent novels that are undeniably popular among readers of their respective genres. Both authors have created engaging characters and masterfully developed their respective plots while immersing readers in their unique worlds. Whether you prefer a classic mystery or an action-packed thriller, both novels make for an excellent read and are highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a well-written and captivating story.