Bestselling crime novelist Tana French joins the hosts to discuss everything from the semi-serialized nature of crime stories to tips for going undercover. They explore the appeal of procedural and serialized shows, as well as the popularity of true crime podcasts. They also delve into the themes of self-discovery and community resentment in French's novel 'The Likeness', and discuss the character arcs of Cassie and Franco Neil.
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Quick takeaways
The Likeness explores the theme of personal identity and how it is shaped by personal history and circumstances.
The murder investigation in The Likeness takes place in a small Irish village with a troubled history of economic struggles and resentments, highlighting the intertwining dynamics of the community and the case.
The Likeness combines elements of a murder mystery with complex characters and a vivid setting, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged.
Deep dives
Cassie Maddox goes undercover to solve a murder
Cassie Maddox, a former detective, is pulled back into investigative work when a body is found that looks exactly like her. She is sent undercover to live with a group of college students who knew the victim, uncovering secrets and unraveling the truth.
The impact of the crime on the community
The murder investigation takes place in a small village in Ireland that has a troubled history of economic struggles and resentments. The community's dynamics and tensions become intertwined with the investigation.
Cassie's personal journey of rediscovery
As Cassie delves deeper into the case and assumes the identity of the victim, she starts to discover more about herself and her own desires, finding connection and intimacy she has been longing for.
Exploring the theme of identity
The story explores the doppelganger aspect of Cassie and the victim, highlighting the choices and paths that separate them or make them similar. It asks questions about how personal history and circumstances shape one's identity.
The skillful writing and engaging plot
The book skillfully combines elements of a murder mystery with complex characters and a vivid setting. Tana French's writing draws readers into the story, creating a compelling narrative that keeps them eagerly turning pages.
This week, we use Tana French’s outstanding sequel The Likeness as an opportunity to comment on everything from the semi-serialized nature of crime stories to tips for going undercover to Pokémon Go.
We read French’s first novel, In The Woods, for the show a couple of years back, and while you don’t need to have read that book to enjoy this one, we will spoil minor elements of both books in our discussion this week. You’ve been warned!