53 pages 1 hour read

In the Woods

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

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Tana French

In the Woods

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 2000s

Publication Year

2007

Publisher

Penguin Books

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In In the Woods by Tana French, Detectives Rob Ryan and Cassie Maddox of Dublin's Murder Squad investigate the murder of a 12-year-old girl named Katy Devlin, whose body is found at an archaeological site. Rob, who had a traumatic childhood experience in the same woods where his best friends disappeared 20 years earlier, hopes solving Katy’s murder will also uncover the truth about his past.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Unnerving

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

3.9

441,767 ratings

66%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Tana French's In the Woods captivates with its atmospheric setting and complex characters, earning praise for its lyrical prose and psychological depth. However, some critics note a convoluted plot and an unsatisfying resolution. Overall, it's a gripping read for those who appreciate intricate narratives and nuanced crime fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read In the Woods?

Readers who are captivated by psychological thrillers with intricate character development and atmospheric tension will enjoy In the Woods by Tana French. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects and Donna Tartt's The Secret History will find similar elements of mystery, dark secrets, and compelling narrative twists in French's novel.

3.9

441,767 ratings

66%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Rob Ryan (Adam Ryan)

A detective on the Dublin Murder Squad who changed his name from Adam Ryan after being the sole survivor of a mysterious childhood incident. Known for his elegant style and complex personal history, he becomes deeply involved in a case that resurfaces memories of his past.

Rob's partner on the Murder Squad, notable for her eclectic sense of dress and insightful approach to detective work. She shares a close bond with Rob, both professionally and as friends, and their partnership is known for its effective crime-solving teamwork.

A member of the Murder Squad who joins Rob and Cassie in their investigation, valued for his reliability and political connections. He later becomes significant in both the professional and personal lives of the main characters.

The sophisticated and enigmatic teenage sister of murder victim Katy Devlin, known for her strong presence and complex relationships with the detectives. Her interactions with Rob and Cassie are marked by a striking incongruity with her surroundings.

A young college student working at the dig site where Katy Devlin's body was found. He is characterized by his eagerness to please and his boyish charm, which makes him a notable figure in the storyline.

The 12-year-old murder victim whose body is found at an archaeological site, with aspirations to become a ballerina. Her ambitions and dedication to dance are emphasized in the narrative surrounding her untimely death.

Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 2000s

Publication Year

2007

Publisher

Penguin Books

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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