What To Read

Tana French mystery novels are known for their literary depth, psychological insight, and haunting atmosphere. Her acclaimed Dublin Murder Squad series follows loosely connected detectives through dark and emotional investigations. This guide outlines the Tana French books in order, helping readers find the best Tana French reading order to follow the progression of themes and recurring characters.

In the Woods (2007)

The first novel in the Dublin Murder Squad series, In the Woods introduces detective Rob Ryan, who investigates the murder of a young girl in the same woods where he was found—traumatized and alone—as a child. Atmospheric and emotionally charged, it sets the tone for French’s signature blend of procedural and psychological drama.

The Likeness (2008)

In this follow-up, detective Cassie Maddox is pulled back into the squad when a murder victim turns out to be her double—using a former alias from an undercover assignment. Cassie goes undercover in the woman’s life, leading to an eerie and addictive exploration of identity and intimacy.

Faithful Place (2010)

Detective Frank Mackey, previously seen in The Likeness, is forced to revisit his troubled childhood in Dublin’s inner city when the suitcase of his long-missing first love is found. A deeply personal case reveals secrets, family wounds, and choices that still haunt him.

Broken Harbor (2012)

Mick "Scorcher" Kennedy, one of the squad’s top detectives, investigates a grisly family murder in a half-finished luxury estate on the Irish coast. The case slowly unravels him, exposing cracks in his past and in the official story. One of the darkest Tana French mystery novels to date.

The Secret Place (2014)

When a student pins a cryptic message on a school bulletin board—"I know who killed him"—Detective Stephen Moran partners with Antoinette Conway to investigate a murder at a girls’ boarding school. Full of claustrophobic tension and teenage power plays, it’s a standout entry in the Dublin Murder Squad series.

The Trespasser (2016)

In the final installment (so far) of the Dublin Murder Squad books in order, Conway returns as the lead, investigating what looks like a cut-and-dry domestic murder. But pressures inside the squad and layers of deception outside force her to reckon with what it means to be a woman in the force—and in control.

Other Tana French Mystery Novels

Outside the Dublin Murder Squad series, Tana French has written acclaimed standalone novels that retain her signature atmospheric style:

The Searcher (2020)

A retired detective tries to live a quiet life in rural Ireland, but when a local boy begs for help finding his missing brother, he’s pulled back into danger. A slower, Western-tinged mystery about justice and community.

The Hunter (2024)

This loose follow-up to The Searcher returns to the same small village as tensions over land, class, and loyalty come to a boil. French again explores how darkness seeps into even the most idyllic landscapes.