The Witch Elm is a mystery/psychological thriller by Tana French. It is told in the first person (Toby), but the narrator is not always reliable since it is told by a character who has been damaged both physically and mentally and looking back, some of the memories are unclear. As the story progresses, we read about trauma and recovery, but there are many secrets that are hidden and the discovery of a skeleton in the back yard starts a series of investigations by the protagonist, by family members, by the police, and it leads to a deep probing into “secret histories.”
The writing is dense, layered, and atmospheric. The mystery is reminiscent of Agatha Christie, but the storytelling is some combination of Ruth Rendell, Stephen King, and and edgy version of Tana French. She asks questions about who we really are once the shields of privilege and innocence are removed. From trauma, madness is close and we may have to fight to stay who we think we are. Toby tries to heal himself, but not everyone is on his side, except for one dying man. The book is longer and at various points, there are major surprises and revelations. Toby himself and the readers of this book won’t be able to predict the finale. This book got inside my head and wouldn’t let go, and for this I am grateful.
A recommendation? Yes, but only for some readers. 4.6 out of 5.0 stars
Note – I have read several of Tana French’s books and will continue to read new ones as they are published.
