Lars Mytting’s wonderful trilogy is set in the Gudbransdal area of Norway beginning at the end of the 19th century. He weaves a fascinating story that begins with conjoined twins born in the 17th century who learned how to weave together, making beautiful and amazing tapestries. When they die, their father has bells cast in their honor, one of each twin. Hence the name of this series. Only two of the three books are complete: The Bell in the Lake (2020), and The Reindeer Hunters (2022). The third novel is due to come out next September.

I loved these books. It is a fascinating depiction of Norwegian life as it shifted from farms in deep valleys without much outside contact to people adapting to life seemingly invaded from the outside. The key figure in the first book (and continuing) is the local pastor who works hard to bring the people into modernity. The descriptions of his observations, struggles, and changes in attitude are really good.

These are great rainy-day reads, and I heartily recommend them!