Dead Weight by Hildur Knútsdóttir: Book Review

Dead Weight is the latest English release from Icelandic author Hildur Knútsdóttir. Expected to be released on May 26, 2026, it explores the idea of trying to do the right thing. Unnur is a single woman, living on her own, until a black cat shows up. Reuniting the cat with its owner, Unnur finds herself involved in drama she’s unsure how to handle.

I want to thank Tor Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Dead Weight. All opinions presented here are my own.

Synopsis from Goodreads

Unnur was living a normal, if lonely, life until a black cat showed up at her door.

Trying to do the right thing, Unnur reunites the lost pet with its owner—a young woman named Ásta who is in desperate need of some help. Unnur reluctantly agrees to take in the cat until Ásta can care for it again herself.

Soon, Ásta becomes a fixture in Unnur’s life and the two form an unlikely friendship. But like a black cat, trouble is tailing Ásta, and Unnur is the only one there when things take a violent turn.

Nothing tests a friendship like blood on your hands.

My Opinions

I requested the ARC for Dead Weight for two reasons. The first, because I’ve read a book by Knútsdóttir a couple of years ago, and found it interesting. The second is that Knútsdóttir is from Iceland. I suppose I have a weakness for Icelandic authors, even if their genre isn’t my normal.

Now, let’s talk about Dead Weight. This can be a quick read, as it’s around 160 pages. But you may find yourself taking it slowly with the first half or so. Well, after you get past the prologue and the first little bit of the first chapter. But once the ball starts rolling, it speeds to the finish line.

Yes, the events of the final few chapters are obvious from the beginning. But I wasn’t certain who it would be until a chapter or so before it happened. And just because you know what’s coming doesn’t mean it’s not worth the read.

Dead Weight is marketed as a horror; it’s more than that. Yes, there are horror elements, including some blood and gore. But it’s also a look at what happens when people get pushed to the edge. While none of the characters are what one would call good people, you will find yourself able to relate to Unnur’s thoughts and actions as the book progresses.

If you’re looking for a book with interesting pacing and story arc, you should give Dead Weight a read.

Are you looking for some more books to read? Check out my bookish lists, book reviews, and monthly reading wrap-ups.