After an incident at her old school that led to her being expelled, sixteen year old Kria has moved with her parents to Reykjavík. They want her to make a fresh start, but she has zero hopes that a new school will make her life any better. But to her surprise she is befriended by the beautiful and popular Elisabet, who lives in one of the oldest houses in Reykjavík. And despite the demands of her studies, Kria starts enjoying her new school-life.

When Elisabet finds an old chest in a hidden cupboard, she and Kria begin to investigate the curious case of a girl who went missing without a trace in 1938. Kria also meets the mysterious David, who sometimes vanishes for long stretches of time. Soon, Kria discovers that the girl's disappearance may have an unexpected connection to her own life.

 The Lion is the first book in a new trilogy, an exciting story that takes place in contemporary Reykjavík but also delves into terrifying events from the past.

Awards and nominations

• Awarded the Reykjavík Children’s Literature Prize 2019 for best original work

• Awarded the Icelandic Bookseller’s Prize for best YA Book 2018

• Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize for Best Children’s and YA Book 2018

Reviews

“After Hildur’s earlier books, expectations are high when a new one comes out. The Lion does not disappoint, it is extremely well written and well thought out. The plot is interesting and the suspense increases as the story moves forward, making it hard for the reader to put the book down.”
María Bjarkadóttir / Bókmenntir.is

“The story is well plotted and delivers a realistic portrayal of the world of the Icelandic teenager, while at the same time the realm of fairy tales and mysteries is never far away, as well as a strange case from the past. Those elements intertwine in a thrilling tale and it is easier said than done to put the book down. [...] Hildur is equal to the very best contemporary YA-writers.” Erla María Markúsdóttir / Morgunblaðið

 “The Lion is an extremely well written and bewitching book. The supernatural is especially well executed and a chill is never far from the skin of the reader.“ Brynhildur Björnsdóttir / Fréttablaðið