Martin Sutter's new thriller demands something not all readers are willing to give him.

Swiss bestseller author Martin Suter has released his latest crime novel, Ein und Alles, published by Diogenes in 2026. The book begins with a conventional premise involving a missing person but evolves into a complex exploration of human consciousness. Critics describe the work as a return to form for the Zurich-based writer, noting its tight pacing and atmospheric tension. The narrative follows Mila and her partner Sascha, who have been happily together for years. One evening, Sascha fails to return home from work. Police arrive at their door the following morning after discovering a large sum of money missing from a collective salary account at his employer. While authorities suspect Sascha embezzled the funds and fled, Mila insists he has suffered an accident. Strange phenomena soon occur, including the sound of footsteps in the stairwell and keys turning in the lock, yet no one appears when she opens the door. Objects that had previously disappeared reappear, suggesting a communication channel between the absent Sascha and Mila. She begins investigating these mysterious signs independently. Suter draws inspiration for this plot device from Federico Faggin, an Italian physicist and computer pioneer. Faggin argues that consciousness does not originate in the brain but exists independently of it. Suter prefaces the novel with the quote, “We do not have consciousness. Consciousness has us.” The title references this concept, comparing individual minds to waves in an ocean that represents a universal, all-encompassing awareness. Although scientifically controversial, the literary framework functions effectively within the story. Reviewers praise Suter’s clear, direct language and his ability to build suspense through subtle details rather than dramatic effects. The book features typical Suter elements, including shady businesspeople, power-hungry figures, and persistent police officers, set against international backdrops leading to a dramatic finale. However, some critics argue that the explanatory sections feel weak. When a professor attempts to explain consciousness theory to Mila, the dialogue lacks clarity. Additionally, certain characters remain emotionally distant, particularly Mila’s godmother and neighbor, who comes across as unnervingly cold. Despite these minor criticisms regarding character depth and exposition, the consensus highlights Suter’s primary goal: entertainment. He does not aim to change the world or provide definitive scientific answers. Instead, he utilizes the supernatural as a engine for a thriller filled with unexpected twists. Readers who accept the unexplained elements find the narrative compelling, while those seeking strict realism may struggle with the premise. The book demonstrates that when Suter is in top form, his storytelling prowess remains unmatched.