50 pages • 1 hour read
The Witch Elm
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Book Brief
528
Novel • Fiction
Dublin, Ireland • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Witch Elm by Tana French is a psychological crime thriller that follows Toby Hennessy, who, after surviving a brutal assault that leaves him with PTSD and memory loss, moves to his family's ancestral home to recuperate. There, he discovers a human skull in a wych elm, unearthing dark family secrets and confronting issues of privilege and identity as he delves into his past to uncover the truth about the murder and its connection to his own assault. Death by suicide, sexual assault, and the effects of PTSD appear in the book.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
115,946 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Tana French's The Witch Elm has been praised for its atmospheric writing and complex characters, especially the morally ambiguous protagonist. Critics appreciate the novel's exploration of identity and memory. However, some find its pacing slow and the plot twists predictable. Overall, it is a compelling read for fans of literary thrillers.
Who Should Read The Witch Elm?
Readers who delight in psychological thrillers imbued with rich character development and atmospheric suspense will relish Tana French's The Witch Elm. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Donna Tartt's The Secret History may find themselves captivated by French's intricate plotting and exploration of identity, memory, and morality.
115,946 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Hugo Hennessy
Hugo Hennessy
Toby's uncle who serves as a wise and supportive figure, offering profound insights and comfort through his work in genealogy and his care for his family.
Detective Mike Rafferty
Detective Mike Rafferty
A determined detective investigating a murder, known for his aggressive and morally ambiguous tactics in pursuit of the truth.
Susanna Farrell
Susanna Farrell
Toby's cousin, known for her protective nature toward her family and her critical view of the privilege that Toby often exhibits.
Leon Hennessy
Leon Hennessy
Another of Toby's cousins who has been shaped by past traumas and conflicts, showing resilience and loyalty to family.
Melissa
Melissa
Toby's empathetic girlfriend who supports him through difficult times but ultimately prioritizes her own well-being and establishes healthy boundaries.
528
Novel • Fiction
Dublin, Ireland • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
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