The Searcher, by Tana French - 4.5 stars!

The Searcher by Tana French is the first book I've read by this author and it certainly won't be the last.

The novel tells the tale of Cal, who has recently relocated to a remote part of Ireland having retired from the Chicago police. All he wants to do is renovate his house and enjoy some peace and quiet. Yet Trey has different plans that involve him using his old police skills to search for a missing brother. 

To be honest, this is not an adrenaline-fuelled crime novel, but things get under your skin - a bit like the damp mists and drizzle that prevail throughout the book. It is wonderfully atmospheric and there is an ongoing tension that continues to build, albeit slowly. Cal is a fish out of water in a village that holds dark secrets and where he no longer carries a police badge to back up his actions. He also carries some emotional wounds that mean he won't turn his back on someone needing his help. 

Characters and setting are developed wonderfully and as well as the crime aspect, there are warm and tender moments and an ending that makes you wonder what you would do in such circumstances.

Thanks to the author, NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

My rating is 4.5 stars.