Dive into the shadowy streets of Oslo with Henning Juul, a scarred journalist whose quest for truth lights up the Nordic noir scene! Thomas Enger’s Henning Juul series blends heart-pounding crime stories with raw emotional depth, following a man haunted by loss yet driven to uncover secrets the darkest secrets of Norway’s underworld.
With its moody atmosphere, intricate plots, and a hero you can’t help but root for, this series is a must-read for fans of Nordic noir and character-driven thrillers. Let’s explore what makes Henning Juul a standout in the world of crime fiction.
How Henning Juul Began
Thomas Enger, a former journalist, poured his love for storytelling and his insider knowledge of the media world into creating the Henning Juul series. Launched in 2010 with Burned, the series was born from Enger’s desire to craft a gritty, emotional crime saga that stood out in the Nordic noir boom. Inspired by the likes of Henning Mankell and Stieg Larsson, Enger envisioned a flawed, relatable protagonist—a journalist scarred by tragedy, navigating the fast-paced, ethically murky world of 24-hour news.
The series, published by Faber & Faber and later Orenda Books, quickly gained international acclaim, with rights sold to over 28 countries. Enger’s background lent authenticity to Henning’s investigations, while his knack for weaving personal drama with high-stakes mysteries hooked readers from the start.
The Heart of Henning Juul
The Henning Juul series spans five gripping novels, each building on the journalist’s relentless pursuit of justice for his son’s death in a tragic fire. In Burned (2010), Henning returns to work after two years of grief, diving into a brutal murder case that pulls him into Oslo’s criminal underbelly. Pierced (2011) sees him chasing leads from a jailed extortionist, uncovering a gang war threatening his life. Scarred (2013) tackles a nursing home murder and a political scandal involving Henning’s sister, while Cursed (2017) weaves a complex mystery around a missing woman and a wealthy Swedish family. The finale, Killed (2018), delivers a heart-wrenching conclusion to Henning’s quest, tying up loose ends with a punch.
Themes of loss, redemption, and the cost of truth run deep, set against Oslo’s gritty urban landscape. Enger’s style—taut, atmospheric, and emotionally raw—captures the essence of Nordic noir while focusing on Henning’s inner struggles. His flawed yet endearing nature, paired with Enger’s sharp commentary on modern journalism, makes the series both thrilling and thought-provoking.
The novels are best read in order to fully appreciate the intricate plotting and Henning’s emotional arc. Each book stands alone but contributes to a larger, satisfying narrative that keeps you guessing until the final page.
Why Henning Juul Resonates
The Henning Juul series has carved a niche in Nordic noir for its blend of pulse-pounding suspense and heartfelt storytelling. Fans praise its authentic portrayal of journalism, where deadlines, ethics, and danger collide. Henning’s personal tragedy and dogged determination resonate with readers, offering a hero who’s as human as he is heroic.
The series’ international success, including nominations like the eDunnit Award, reflects its broad appeal. Its exploration of grief, corruption, and redemption feels universal, while its Oslo setting adds a chilling, immersive backdrop. For those new to Nordic noir or seeking a fresh take on crime fiction, Henning Juul delivers a gripping, emotional ride that lingers long after the last page.
- First Book Published: 2010 (Burned)
- Number of Books: 5
- Author: Thomas Enger
- Genre: Nordic Noir/Crime Thriller
- Award: Nominated for eDunnit Award 2012
Ready to step into Henning Juul’s world? Grab Burned and get lost in a Nordic noir adventure that’s as thrilling as it is moving!