A captivating story of unrealized potential and tragic destinies.
Will appeal to readers of crime and historical fiction alike.

Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize 2024

An Icelandic poet, the greatest talent of his generation, lies severely injured in a hospital in a foreign country and recalls happy and sad moments in his life. His mind wanders to the terrible fate of a shepherd boy in the countryside at home, while old trials of the heart occupy his thoughts as well; all that was said and unsaid.

Journey’s End is a captivating historical novel drawn from the extraordinary life of the national poet Jonas Hallgrimsson and the strange events that unfolded in his home valley during his youth, in the early parts of the 19th century.

The story offers a fresh and powerful perspective on the poet and the society that nurtured him, capturing the contrasts between the vibrant city life abroad and the impoverished countryside of northern Iceland. Those opposing worlds shaped both the man and his works, making for a story of varied fortunes and fleeting luck that is both poignant and profound.

“An exceptionally well-crafted historical novel that presents a fresh and original perspective on the renowned poet [Jonas Hallgrimsson]. Interwoven with Jonas’s poetry and his final days are fragments of memories from his past, brought to life through masterfully written prose. The light and flowing style paints a picture that leaves no reader untouched.”
JURY‘S VERDICT
The Icelandic Literary Prize 2024, Finalist in the category of fiction

“Undeniably, this is Indridason’s masterpiece—the pinnacle of his work to date.”
KB, KILJAN, NATIONAL TV

Five stars out of five
★★★★★ 
“Arnaldur Indridason is a great storyteller… It is only within the ability of the finest narrators to handle such delicate material so well.”
KJJ, MORGUNBLADID DAILY

“Indridason achieves something remarkable here, crafting a book with a captivating and melancholic tone. The [main protagonist] feels exceptionally authentic, bringing depth to the narrative.”
KB, KILJAN, NATIONAL TV

“This novel is highly accessible, allowing readers to appreciate it as an outstanding historical novel. It seamlessly weaves together elements of Icelandic folk culture and high culture, creating a true literary gem.”
IIA, KILJAN, NATIONAL TV

“… a piercingly tragic story … Simply outstanding!”
POLITIKEN (ABOUT THE KING AND THE CLOCKMAKER)

“… a cohesive tale of fate with clear historical threads …”
WEEKENDAVISEN (ABOUT THE KING AND THE CLOCKMAKER)