Picture a Swedish storyteller who traded a police badge for a pen, crafting thrillers that pulse with digital-age intrigue—meet Anders de la Motte! Born in 1971, this former cop turned international security expert has become a titan of Scandinavian crime fiction, weaving tales that blend high-stakes suspense with sharp commentary on technology and society. His Game Trilogy, a global sensation, has captivated readers and screenwriters alike, proving de la Motte’s knack for stories that thrill and provoke thought.
The Making of Anders de la Motte
Born in Billesholm, Sweden, Anders de la Motte grew up surrounded by books, thanks to his librarian mother. After moving to Stockholm, he served as a police officer from 1996 to 2001, gaining firsthand insight into crime and human nature. His career later shifted to security roles at UPS and Dell, where he oversaw operations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. These experiences—coupled with a love for storytelling sparked by his early reading—set the stage for his writing career. By his mid-30s, the itch to create his own stories became undeniable, launching him into the literary world.
Anders de la Motte’s Unforgettable Stories
De la Motte burst onto the scene in 2010 with Game, the first book in his acclaimed Game Trilogy. This electrifying series follows Henrik 'HP' Pettersson, a slacker drawn into a dangerous alternate-reality game, and his sister Rebecca Normén, a complex police officer. The trilogy, rounded out by Buzz (2011) and Bubble (2012), won the Swedish Crime Writers’ Academy Debut Award and has sold over 200,000 copies in Sweden alone. Its blend of fast-paced suspense, humor, and prescient takes on social media’s dark side has drawn comparisons to Philip K. Dick.
Following the trilogy, de la Motte penned the David Sarac duology—MemoRandom (2014) and UltiMatum (2015)—with the latter earning the Best Swedish Crime Novel award. His Skåne Quartet, including End of Summer (2016) and Deeds of Autumn (2022), showcases his versatility, diving into psychological thrillers set in Sweden’s haunting landscapes. His latest Leo Asker series, starting with The Mountain King (2022), introduces a driven female inspector tackling chilling mysteries, cementing his status as a Scandi-noir innovator.
De la Motte’s style is a cocktail of relentless pacing, vivid characters, and tech-savvy plots that mirror our connected world. His novels, translated into over 30 languages, resonate globally, with adaptations like the End of Summer TV series on BBC Four and the Game Trilogy optioned by Gaumont. His ability to weave societal critiques into gripping narratives makes his work both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Why Anders de la Motte Matters
Anders de la Motte has redefined Scandinavian crime fiction by infusing it with a playful, tech-forward edge. His stories don’t just thrill—they hold a mirror to our digital obsessions, exploring how technology shapes behavior and power. With awards, bestseller status, and international adaptations, he’s a cultural force, inspiring readers and writers to question the world around them. His unique journey from law enforcement to literary stardom adds authenticity that keeps fans hooked.
- Born: June 19, 1971, Billesholm, Sweden
- Key Works: Game Trilogy, Skåne Quartet, Leo Asker series
- Awards: Swedish Crime Writers’ Academy Debut Award (2010), Best Swedish Crime Novel (2015)
- Fun Fact: He co-writes a cozy mystery series with his wife, Anette!
Ready to dive into a world of suspense and digital intrigue? Snag The Mountain King or Game and experience Anders de la Motte’s thrilling Scandi-noir magic!