Review of The Witch Elm by Tana French

"The Witch Elm" is a standalone mystery novel written by Tana French, an acclaimed author known for her atmospheric and psychologically intricate crime fiction. The book was published in 2018 and diverges from her usual Dublin Murder Squad series.

The story centers around Toby Hennessy, a young man who seemingly has it all: a good job, a loving girlfriend, and a supportive family. However, his life takes a dark turn when he becomes the victim of a violent attack during a burglary at his apartment. Left with serious injuries and post-traumatic memory loss, Toby retreats to his family's ancestral home, Ivy House, to recover.

While at Ivy House, Toby's life becomes further entangled in mystery when a human skull is discovered in the old witch elm tree in the garden. As the police investigation unfolds, Toby finds himself becoming both a suspect and a detective in his own right as he desperately tries to piece together the events of the past and the identity of the skull's owner.

Tana French's writing in "The Witch Elm" is atmospheric and immersive, drawing readers into Toby's world and the eerie history of Ivy House. The novel explores themes of privilege, identity, and the unreliability of memory, adding depth to the character-driven narrative.

One of the book's strengths is its well-developed and complex characters, including Toby himself, who grapples with his identity, his family's secrets, and the impact of the attack on his sense of self. The exploration of family dynamics and interpersonal relationships is a recurring theme throughout the novel.

However, some readers have noted that the pacing in "The Witch Elm" can be slow at times, and the plot may not follow the traditional formula of a fast-paced thriller. Instead, it delves deep into the psychological aspects of the characters and their relationships.

Overall, "The Witch Elm" is a thought-provoking and intricately crafted mystery that will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven narratives with a strong sense of atmosphere. If you appreciate psychological suspense and are looking for a departure from traditional crime fiction, Tana French's novel may be a compelling choice.