Mammon in Malmö

Mammon in Malmö is the eighth book in this underrated series featuring Anita Sundström.   Problems with her Chief Inspector has caused Anita Sundström to leave Kane County Police’s Criminal Investigation Squad and take a temporary post at the local tourist office. 

Not sure what to do next Sundström finds herself being asked by a dying lady whose family has had a number of paintings stolen to track down the items stolen by the Nazis.   At the same time the police and her former colleagues are investigating a murder which crosses paths with her own investigation. Through sheer determination and at times serendipity she manages to uncover what happened to the paintings.  Alongside this she uncovers a plot by an extreme organisation to kill a main speaker at a conference in Malmö.

Mammon in Malmö combines historical fact with a great police procedural and is also a good insight into Sweden's historical past and their contribution to the war. It is a testament to MacLeod's writing that the historical information that he imparts is not done so that it overwhelms the story. There is a great sense of place as well as great characterisation. Anita Sundström is a determined character who is well worth reading about.   This is a fascinating, layered, and skilfully crafted story which will pique the interest of anyone who is interested in knowing about the dying days of the second World War and the greed of the Nazis as well as the way in which the paintings are found.  If you have not read this series then I suggest that you give them a go.  They are best read in order but don't let that stop you from reading Mammon in Malmö.