Lars Kepler

Lars Kepler is the pseudonym used by the Swedish author duo Alexander Ahndoril and Alexandra Coelho Ahndoril, who are married and collaborate to write bestselling crime thrillers. They adopted the pen name “Lars Kepler” as a tribute to the famous astronomer Johannes Kepler, symbolizing precision and insight, qualities reflected in their tightly plotted novels.

Lars Kepler’s books are known for their intense, fast-paced storytelling, dark atmospheres, and complex characters. Their most famous series features Detective Joona Linna, a skilled investigator who faces chilling and often brutal criminal cases. The Joona Linna series has been widely acclaimed for its suspenseful plots, psychological depth, and gripping twists, making it popular not only in Sweden but internationally.

The duo’s debut novel under the Lars Kepler name, The Hypnotist (2009), became a bestseller and set the tone for their signature style—combining elements of Nordic noir with psychological thriller. Subsequent titles such as The Nightmare, The Fire Witness, and The Sandman have continued to build their reputation as leading voices in Scandinavian crime fiction.

Lars Kepler’s novels often explore dark themes like violence, trauma, and the complexities of human psychology while delivering tightly woven mysteries that keep readers on edge. Their work has been translated into numerous languages and adapted for TV and film.