ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Department Q Returns With 'No Song For The Dead' As Crime Writers Share Genre Insights

publication · 2026-09-10

The latest entry in the Department Q series, titled 'No Song For The Dead', has been launched, co-authored by Jussi Adler-Olsen, Line Holm, and Stine Bolther. The narrative follows Detective Carl Mørck as he delves into a case initially classified as a suicide, amidst a rise in violence in Copenhagen and a haunting past incident. Adler-Olsen emphasizes that the book captures the spirit of Department Q while incorporating fresh aspects, including the introduction of team member Helena Henry. The series has also been transformed into a Netflix adaptation. The authors shared insights on the appeal of crime fiction, highlighting its mix of intense situations and relatable experiences. Holm suggested 'Slow Horses', while Bolther commended both the Department Q and Martin Beck series, and Adler-Olsen acknowledged Martin Beck and 'Broen (The Bridge)' as key influences.

Key facts

  • 'No Song For The Dead' is the eleventh book in the Department Q series.
  • It is co-written by Jussi Adler-Olsen, Line Holm, and Stine Bolther.
  • The first nine books were written solely by Adler-Olsen.
  • The plot involves Detective Carl Mørck investigating a suicide, violence in Copenhagen, and a past event.
  • A new character, half-French Helena Henry, is introduced.
  • The series has been adapted into a Netflix show.
  • Sophie Hannah commented in the Guardian on the appeal of crime and romantic fiction.
  • The authors recommended various crime series, including 'Slow Horses', 'Blackwater', 'Happy Valley', the Martin Beck series, 'The Killing', 'Rejseholdet', and 'Broen (The Bridge)'.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • Netflix
  • Apple TV
  • BBC
  • The Guardian

Locations

  • Denmark
  • Copenhagen
  • Sweden
  • Scandinavia

Sources