A single, simple note featuring only five words and a photo set a chain of events into motion in author Tana French’s THE SECRET PLACE.French beautifully weaves the story from the present to the past and back again as the events unfold. She balances the viewpoints of several characters as each gives their spin on how the actions played out.
While a number of the characters reappear from previous books in the Dublin Murder Squad series, French provides enough background that new readers don’t feel they’re missing key ingredients to follow this story.
A postcard stating, “I know who killed him” is taken from the Secret Place by 16-year-old Holly Mackey, daughter of Detective Frank Mackey. Rather than give the note to her father, Holly takes it to Detective Stephen Moran, who had been helpful to her once before.
The Secret Place is a bulletin board where the girls at St. Kilda Boarding School can privately share their deepest, darkest secrets (or gossip) while remaining anonymous. The postcard refers to Chris Harper, a teenage boy from a neighboring school that was found murdered on the St. Kilda grounds. The case was never solved.
The note reopens an almost cold case about the murder. Moran sees this as his chance to possible get a foot into the Dublin Murder Squad. He and Detective Antoinette Conway, lead detective on the original investigation, begin questioning and reexamining the evidence. The twists and turns that follow lead the officers to make discoveries in a world involving teenagers that they had never anticipated.
THE SECRET PLACE will have you guessing and wondering until the very end. An excellent psychological thriller that brings the bonds of friendship and integrity into a new light.
Author Tana French’s website is http://www.tanafrench.com/
The Secret Place by Tana French, Dublin Murder Squad series Book #5, Viking Adult, @2014, ISBN: 978-0670026326, Hardcover, 464 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Thanks for stopping by today. Hope you’re enjoying a fun Saturday. Do you enjoy stories where the dialogue reflects the age group being presented even if the chatter is among teens using their terminology of the day?
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i don't mind. it would be a bit weird to hear a 13 year talk as if she was a grown up. i like the premis of this book. it is on my wish list now
ReplyDeleteOriginal idea for a clue. Sounds like a great read.
ReplyDeleteMason - Thanks for sharing this. I think Tana French has an awful lot of talent, and it's good to know that you think this one is up to that high standard.
ReplyDeleteit's nice when they know how to weave the plot around many characters and events
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