We are overjoyed to announce that Helena Immonen is this year’s winner of the Torch-Bearer Literary Export Prize with her chilling and timely thriller OPERATION FIRE FOX (Operaatio Tulikettu, Docendo/CrimeTime 2024)! Heartfelt congratulations! This Prize is annually given to the title, the jury sees the most potential for international success in.
‘What stood out: Immonen’s book series reflects his background as a reserve officer and a professional in journalism and communications with a focus on security policy. The gripping thriller has an exceptional pull, and in addition to the intense war dystopia, the characters are also meticulously crafted.
Why it matters globally: Immonen’s depiction of the conflict between NATO and Russia is painfully timely. Although the “Operation Fox” series is entertainment literature, it captures fears and threats of our time in a way that also feels therapeutic to confront.‘
–Kaisa Järvelä, Torch-Bearer Prize Jury