Matti Remes has produced a novel almost every year since 2003. The strong following generated by his thrillers has elevated him to a prominent position among Finnish crime writers.
All six books form a continuum in which the main characters are the same. The action takes place in the present.
Ruben Waara, the main character, is a middle-aged, ordinary Finnish citizen trying to survive his own idiosyncrasies and the challenges that life brings. Blessed – or cursed – with an enquiring mind his fate appears to include unintentional encounters with violence and crime.
All the novels are located in Hanko, Finland’s southernmost urban centre, well known as a seaside resort since the time of Russian rule in the 19th century. Fishing has had a strong influence here, and Hanko is also famous for its unusual natural beauty, its sandy beaches, open seascapes and icy winters. It is the only location in the outer islands of the Finnish archipelago, which can be accessed by car – Finland’s Key West.
In addition to his crime novels, Matti Remes is well known for his cartoons. Several of his collections have been published, the most recent – True Friends – appeared in 2008.
Matti is also a highly respected graphic designer. He divides his life between the cities of Helsinki and Hanko is almost equal measure.
Matti Remes is a member of the International Thriller Writers.
