Tana French
2007
5/5 stars
Dublin Murder Squad detectives Rob Ryan and Cassie Maddox are partners and best friends. When a twelve-year-old is murdered, they are given the case. It appears that it could be tied into a cold case from 30 years back that involved Rob. Possibly compromising his professional reputation -- if not his job -- Rob becomes personally and emotionally involved in both cases, creating unexpected consequences for himself and Cassie.
Into the Woods is effectively told in first person from Rob's point of view; he is flawed and sometimes unlikable, but his voice is always realistic. The relationship between Rob and Cassie is also well-written and believable. The mystery itself was gripping and surprising, and the overall plot was riveting. French excels at creating an uneasy atmosphere and at drawing the reader deep into the story. I was impressed by this novel, and will certainly read more of the Dublin Murder Squad series.
