An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good by Helene Tursten

I've had the hardback edition of An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good by Helene Tursten sitting in my 'to be read' pile for several years now. I am finally happy to report that I read this slim collection of short stories by Swedish author, Helene Turston.

If you’re looking for a quick, deliciously dark read with an unforgettable protagonist, look no further than Helene Tursten’s An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good.

It was absolute perfection in print—compact, elegantly designed, and housing one of the most delightfully sinister leads I've read in a long time.

Meet Maud: Eighty-Eight and Unapologetic

At 88 years old, Maud lives alone in a spacious, rent-free apartment in Gothenburg, Sweden. She travels the world, avoids her neighbors, and cherishes her solitude. But Maud has a low tolerance for people who disrupt her peaceful life—and an exceptionally clever talent for making her problems... disappear.

What makes this collection so enjoyable isn't just the dark humor; it’s Maud herself. She isn't a frail, innocent grandmotherly figure, nor is she a cartoonish villain. She’s calculated, incredibly sharp, and fiercely protective of her peace. Whether dealing with an intrusive neighbor, an unwelcome former flame, or a greedy celebrity, Maud handles obstacles with a quiet efficiency that leaves you equal parts shocked and cheering her on.

The Delights of Short Story Antics

Because this is a collection of interconnected short stories, the pacing moves along at a brisk clip. Watching Maud scheme and execute her various shenanigans without ever raising the suspicions of the local police is pure entertainment. Tursten writes with a dry Swedish wit that keeps the tone light despite the body count, making it the ultimate comfort read for fans of cozy mysteries with a twist.

The hardcover itself feels like a little secret treasure to hold in your hands, making the reading experience even more satisfying.

An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good is a bite-sized, dark-comedy gem. If you love mischievous antiheroes, sharp writing, and stories where older women completely defy expectations, add Maud’s misadventures to your reading list immediately. Just make sure you stay on her good side!

I am giving An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good by Helene Tursten a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!