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Listen, I am a fan of escapist fiction. Thrillers, romance, mystery, psychological thrillers – these are my go to. It has been a while since I picked up a book of short stories. So, when Still Life: Ten Crime Stories arrived for consideration, I was excited to pick up this collection of stories. After all, short stories are the perfect length before bed or for a quick read in the middle of the day. And who doesn’t love crime stories?
There’s an art to a good short story no matter what the genre. The magic is in the right combination of stories woven together to make a collection that transports you somewhere else, or one that makes you think. The arrangement matters.
Table of Contents
ANDERS, Criminal Code 3:7
There is a solid start here with a crazy but super current take on life as a rookie cop. ANDERS, Criminal Code 3:7 is a police officer fresh out of the academy. He is overly keen and volunteers to support in a fast moving investigation with seemingly good intentions. Thinking that this will further his career, he neglects to examine whether he is truly ready for the challenge.
Very quickly Anders learns first hand the deadly consequences of prejudice and how biases colour your actions. Imagine being a law enforcement official right now in any city where people are 24/7 armed with cell phones. Amateur live streamers and videographers are around every corner and on each street. Anders tanks his career immediately which kind of caught me off guard as was no doubt the author’s intention.
IDA Criminal Code 12:1 and Lillan Criminal Code 15:7
If the first story catches the reader off guard and grabs your attention then the second IDA Criminal Code 12:1 and third story Lillan Criminal Code 15:7 tugs at your heart. IDA and Lillan are both slightly heartbreaking stories about young women. One has a serious issue with aggression and the other is trapped in a dysfunctional family with her addict mother. In time, a catalyst forces her into foster care.
Anne of Penal Law on Narcotics Section 1
Anne of Penal Law on Narcotics Section 1 is a powerful story about a mother who refuses to believe the truth about her son’s drug addiction. Similarly, Anne refuses advice and even ignores her husband’s stance on when enough is enough. Her marriage dissolves when she chooses her son above all else defending him and advocating for house release. Eventually, when that house arrest arrangement deteriorates, she commits the same crime her son is being prosecuted for basically.
In the final story that’s part of this collection, a man extends a helping hand in defiance of state restrictions, keeping a refugee safe from the harsh Swedish winter and deportation.
From the press release: STILL LIFE: Ten Crime Stories (Other Press Trade Paperback Original; released 3/31/2026), offers ten sharp, deeply human stories exploring how people from all walks of life can end up on the wrong side of the law, regardless of their intentions. Internationally bestselling author Malin Persson Giolito is celebrated for her knack of bringing readers nuanced explorations of law and order, crime, and morality.
With her unique voice in Swedish literature, Malin Persson Giolito sheds light on the lives of people through ten thought-provoking emotionally charged stories. She delivers a poignant portrayal of 2025/2026 society and life in general.
When Good Intentions Fail
Even actions driven by good intentions may still be considered criminal in the eyes of the law. This collection underscores the reality that the legal system doesn’t always get it right.
About The Author
Malin Persson Giolito is a power-house of Swedish crime fiction, best known globally for her 2016 breakout novel Quicksand. Quicksand was adapted into a hit Netflix series. I’m currently reading this one because it kicks off with a bang and I love that kind of attention-grabbing start.
Malin Persson Giolito uses legal realism in her writing to shine a light on morality and societal failures. With her background as a lawyer and her experience at the European Commission, she writes with authority and expertise.
Why It Resonates
Malin Persson Giolito uses her singular voice to bridge the gaps between different tiers of society. She masterfully illustrates a haunting truth: good intentions can still be criminal.
By highlighting how the legal system often fails to protect the vulnerable, Still Life: Ten Crime Stories serves as a compelling thriller and a social critique. This is a collection that asks the reader to examine the concept of justice.
I received this advance copy for consideration here. My content is truthful. The post contains affiliate links as a service to readers.
