Scandinavian crime dramas on Netflix have a way of keeping us hooked—sometimes from the suspense, sometimes from those icy locations. Did you know that the gripping Swedish thriller, Murder in Åre, which became Netflix's most-watched Swedish series last year, is actually based directly on a series of novels? Despite the show's success, the author's name has mostly stayed out of the spotlight. Let's dig into the truth behind the series, its author, and what could be waiting in Åre for Season 2.
Netflix Thrillers Often Hide the Authors Behind the Screams
Netflix is known for adapting popular books into hit shows. Blockbusters based on books by Harlan Coben, Jo Nesbø, or Stephen King always make sure you know who wrote the original story. But when it comes to more niche series—especially Scandinavian thrillers written by women—that information can be much harder to track down.
Take the series Murder in Åre. In 2025, it was reportedly Netflix's top Swedish show and even gained some international buzz. Yet the Netflix description only says it's “inspired by a book,” without naming the author. If you want to get ahead on next season's storyline, you’ll have to do some digging, both on the screen and in the bookstore.
The Woman Behind Åre's Murders: Viveca Sten
Murder in Åre adapts the plot of Viveca Sten’s crime novels. The show's first season is divided into two parts: Part 1 is called A Scarf in the Snow, sharing its name with the first volume of Sten’s Åre series (“Une écharpe dans la neige”). The second part matches book two, Valley Shadows (“Les ombres de la vallée”). When watching the series, Netflix had announced a second season was on the way.
Readers hoping to know what happens next for detectives Hanna and Daniel should look to Sten’s later books. In the past two years, she released two new Åre novels: the third is Room 505 (“Chambre 505”), and the fourth is Black Trails (“Pistes noires”). If Netflix waited for both to be released before producing Season 2, it’s likely that season will be split into two parts, mirroring the first. But what might happen in these new chapters?
Ahead in the Books: Vendettas, Secrets, and Deadly Ski Trips
“Charlotte Wretlind is leading a major project: building a luxury hotel in Storlien, near Åre (pronounced ‘ou-reh'), which requires demolishing an abandoned complex. But Charlotte is found brutally stabbed. The suspects include an investor, a shady councilman, and a business rival—until an old, dark story resurfaces. Could the murder be tied to the past?” (Book 3)
“A week of skiing and partying is on the schedule for Olivia and her best friend Fanny when they board the night train to Åre with four college classmates. But after a wild evening, Fanny is discovered dead in the snow outside their cabin. Inspectors Hanna Ahlander and Daniel Lindskog try to gather evidence, but more than one of the men in the group seems to have something to hide, and forensics aren't providing clear answers. The cause of death remains a mystery.” (Book 4)
How the Books Have Been Received
On France’s Fnac, both recent books earned a perfect 5/5 rating—backed by more than just a few reviews, showing strong popularity for Viveca Sten’s dark Nordic stories. On book platform Babelio, ratings are less generous but still feature praise like:
“An excellent psychological thriller to savor slowly!”
Another reviewer shared:
“As always, Viveca Sten kept me in suspense from start to finish. Her writing is taut and addictive. Right from the first pages, you’re immersed in Sweden’s stunning scenery among friends on a ski trip—until everything falls apart. An unputdownable thriller. A huge favorite!”
About the Writer
I’ve been passionate about trends since I was seven, especially those shaping culture and style. That curiosity led me to a sociology degree and a career merging fashion and writing. Today, I work as a freelance lifestyle journalist, specializing in fashion for multiple media publications. Beyond shopping picks full of real finds and affordable style, I often write about culture, thrillers, and lesser-known Nordic gems that are worth your time. You’ll also find topics on psychology, relationships, travel, and wellness. My favorite subjects? Intelligence, remote villages, and discovering hidden, unforgettable spots away from the usual tourist paths. As part of the pop culture generation, expect the occasional reference to classic movies or series from the '90s through today in my work—sometimes you might feel like you’re in a TV series yourself. If I were that character, I'd be the honest best friend who helps you become the most iconic version of yourself, always with practical advice to stay stylish and budget-friendly.
