Phantom

Harry Hole has returned from Hong Kong.  He wants to investigate the murder of a drug user.  Why?  Because the accused is Oleg, son of Rakel, both of whom were an important part of his former life.  The thing is, Hole doesn't realise that he is targeted for his own death.

As Hole begins his investigation he learns of a new synthetic drug that is available in Oslo; it is called 'violin' and is very addictive.  He also surmises that it is the Russian mob that is involved because of the way murders in the drug world are being committed.

Author Jo Nesbo fills in the story of Gusto, the victim of Oleg's killing and how he started out pushing drugs small time and was then taken in by the Russian mob.  Hole sets out to learn as much as he can, working outside the law, yet for law and justice.

Oleg initially is put into protective custody, because his life is in danger from the drug cartel operating in Oslo.  Unfortunately there are corrupt police in the force, and they arrange for Oleg's release.  Harry has to find him before anyone else does.  When he does, he finds out that Oleg's silence is being bought by the cartel's holding of his girlfriend and that Harry's life is in danger, too.

Harry's life almost comes to an end when an assassin tries to cut his throat, but Harry survives, barely, and continues with his investigation.  He knows that it is going to lead to a showdown.  He is surprised to learn that the corrupt policeman is not who he suspected.  Several possible killers are presented to the reader in the last several pages of this thriller before the real killer is revealed.

Nesbo is no stranger to providing the reader with a sense of intrigue and deep suspense in his novels.  A very good top notch read.