Swedish crime fiction became an international phenomenon in the first decade of the twenty-first century, starting first with novels but then percolating through Swedish-language television serials and films into English-language BBC productions and Hollywood remakes. This book looks at the rich history of 'Nordic noir', examines the appeal of this particular genre and attempts to reveal why it is distinct from the plethora of other crime fictions.

Examining the popularity of Stieg Larsson's international success with his Millennium trilogy, as well as Henning Mankell's Wallander across the various media, Peacock also tracks some lesser-known novels and television programmes. He illustrates how the bleakness of the country's 'noirs' reflects particular events and cultural and political changes, with the clash of national characteristics becoming a key feature.

It will appeal to students and researchers of crime fiction and of film and television studies, as well as the many fans of the novels and dramatic representations.

Introduction
1. Nation, Genre, Institution
2. Community and the Family
3. Space and Place
4. Bodies
5. Interview Transcripts
Afterword
Notes
Filmography
Bibliography
Webography
Index

Steven Peacock is Reader in Film and Television Aesthetics at the University of Hertfordshire