Tana French's new novel, "The Keeper" is the third and final book in her Cal Hooper mystery trilogy. Not having read the previous two, I don't think it's something you need to do. But, reading or listening (as I did) to her unhurried storytelling of a small rural town in the Irish countryside is highly recommended. The town that hasn't changed much in generations. Everyone's family lore is intertwine in the fabric of its hardworking farmers and small business owners. Cal is the only outsider to ingratiate himself into the long established ties and tribulations of its townsfolk. Having been born and raised in Chicago, Cal became one of Chicago's finest; a cop turned detective working the arduous and complicated beats of the Windy City. Having retired, the idea of moving to Ireland, the country of his forefathers with its expansive green countryside's appeal to Cal for the simpler, less demanding lifestyle it offers. Cal was correct in assuming Ireland would provide the fresh air and solitude not afforded him in the states. What Cal didn't foresee was the deep attachment he would feel for many of the locals. Nor did he expect to find himself immersed in unraveling the events surrounding an apparent suicide of Rachel, a local young woman. Rachel's fiancee is the son of the town's unofficial magistrate and has the local authorities at his beck and call. French is a gifted writer, known for creating mysteries. I find her craft most captivating with her vivid characterizations and natural descriptions of the majestic oftentimes dank surroundings and cozy, fire lit homesteads. Cal is engaged to the level headed Lena, a lifelong resident, longtime widow. Both Lena and Cal prefer to keep to themselves but this proves impossible in a town where everyone is related to someone else in some way or other. Lena is the last person to have seen Rachel, Eugene's beautiful girlfriend before her body is found in the local river. Listening to the languid story unfold, told in thick Irish accents along side Cal's clear American intonation made the investigative journey especially enjoyable and engaging. The local pub and general store are the watering holes and meeting places where everyone knows your name, your family, your business and and your connections to everyone else. The varied colors and charms of the town's locals will warm your heart and the nefarious wrangling of the town's wealthy bully will keep you captive and looking to Cal to outwit the villain. Cal has rightfully found himself in a community where friendship holds value and loyalty has meaning. THE KEEPER is an assured pleasure; an intriguing mystery mired within the well intentioned keepings of its Irish kinfolk. Enhance your reading pleasure with a pot of tea, a scone with jam by the warmth of a fire.
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