The Swimmer

A Novel

By: Joakim Zander

Narrated by: Peter Ganim, Elisabeth Rodgers

A deep-cover CIA agent races across Europe to save the daughter he never knew in this electrifying debut thriller—an international sensation billed as “Homeland meets Stieg Larsson” that heralds the arrival of a new master sure to follow in the footsteps of Stieg Larsson, John Le Carré, and Graham Greene.

In the end, you cannot hide who you are.

Klara Walldéen was raised by her grandparents on a remote archipelago in the Baltic Sea, learning to fish and hunt and sail a boat through a storm. Now, as an EU Parliament aide in Brussels, she is learning how to navigate the treacherous currents of international politics: the lines between friend and enemy, truth and lies.

But Klara has accidentally seen something she shouldn’t have: a laptop containing information so sensitive that someone will kill to keep hidden. Suddenly, she is thrown into a terrifying chase across Europe, with no idea who is hunting her or why.

Meanwhile, in Virginia, an old spy hides from his past. Once, he was a man of action, an operative so dedicated that he abandoned his infant daughter to keep his cover. Now, he is the only man who can save Klara . . . and she is the only woman who can allow him to lay old ghosts to rest.

Very Good with Limitations

The primary storyline and the narration of Ms. Rodgers was very engaging. The backdrop of Sweden, Belgium and London was interesting. I couldn't figure out why Mr.Ganim chose such a tortured monotone delivery. I hated whenever the storyline went to his narration. I would be very careful selecting a book that he narrated. That being said, the story is entertaining and worth reading.

Addictive

I listen to tons of audio books, since I am a) very short sighted and b) travel a lot. Most of my listening I do for entertainment and do not expect much in the way of "deep and meaningful". So this book was a total surprise. An exciting espionage story not full off predictable heroism and clear good and evil camps. if this story would happen, it wold happen like this. The discrepancy between US and European views and attitudes is brilliantly depicted and the narrators do their part bringing this story to life.

Great listen!

Was slow at beginning for set up but worth sticking with. Narration very good as well. I would recommend this!

Great global story of intrigue

Well-crafted story with strong character development – especially the women. Particularly enjoyed the lovely European settings. Very well performed by both actors.

Great book and listen

If you like thrillers and twists this is fun time. Narration is well done and interesting.