A state-run institution ... housed troubled, young boys, aged between seven and 14, where they were beaten and abused by the staff.
Although in reality there was no murder, per se, as shown in the series, it caused quite a noise and the boys were eventually compensated in monetary terms.
Two survivors, Vidar and Benedikt, relate the systemic physical and emotional abuse by teachers and how nearly every week a boy would be viciously raped in a dark room by an unknown man.
Kata enlists the help of police chief Hákon from Borgarnes – a town near Valhalla – to find Brynja.
From reading Pétur's report, Kata determines a fourth Valhalla staff member, "Gummi", exists.
Kata and Hákon begin to suspect Magnús' involvement, when investigating Tommi's recently discovered skeleton.
[2] Writing in The Sydney Morning Herald, Brad Newsome says: "Gutsy performances and judicious rationing of the scenery make for terrific viewing.
"[3] However, Euan Ferguson of The Guardian writes: "Even halfway through it hasn’t quite got going: despite the dramatic backdrops, and a few stalwart performances, the word is glacial.
"[4] Writing in The List, Brian Donaldson concludes his review: "The Valhalla Murders is certainly distracting enough, but while it aims to send chills straight down your bones, this Icelandic drama is ultimately a lukewarm bowl of kjötsúpa.