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The Likeness

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

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Tana French

The Likeness

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

466

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 2000s

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Tana French's The Likeness, Detective Cassie Maddox is drawn into a case involving a murder victim who looks remarkably like her and was using an alias Cassie created during a previous undercover operation. Cassie goes undercover as the victim to infiltrate a close-knit group of friends living in a historic house, delving into their lives to uncover the truth behind the murder while grappling with her own identity issues.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Contemplative

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

187,872 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Tana French's The Likeness captivates with its intricate plot and complex character development, praised for its psychological depth and atmospheric prose. Critics highlight the slow pace and occasional implausibility of the narrative as drawbacks. Despite this, the book's engrossing mystery and emotional resonance often outweigh its flaws, making it a compelling read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Likeness?

A reader who would enjoy Tana French's The Likeness is likely intrigued by psychological thrillers and elaborate mysteries. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl or Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train would appreciate French's intricate plotting and deep character explorations. This book appeals to those who enjoy unraveling complex narratives with a literary touch.

4.2

187,872 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Cassie Maddox

A detective and the protagonist who goes undercover to assume the identity of the murder victim. She navigates the complexities of her mission amidst personal challenges and the remnants of a past operation.

Cassie's former boss and the detective leading the current investigation. He pushes Cassie back into undercover work, testing her resilience and independence.

The charismatic leader of a close-knit group living in Whitethorn House. He is focused on creating an idyllic community away from traditional societal norms.

The identity used by Cassie for her undercover role and the murder victim whose life Cassie investigates. This character holds multiple identities and serves as a key to understanding Cassie's mission.

Cassie's former partner and close friend whose influence remains significant in her life, impacting her thoughts and decisions throughout the narrative.

Book Details
Pages

466

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 2000s

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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