Broken Harbour

Tana French

57 pages 1-hour read

Tana French

Broken Harbour

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

Tana French

Broken Harbour

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

450

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Mystery & Crime Fiction

Horror & Suspense

Psychological Fiction
Setting

Dublin, Ireland • 2010s

Theme
Fear

Death

Appearance & Reality
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Irish novelist Tana French’s crime novel Broken Harbour (2012), the fourth installment in the Dublin Murder Squad series, Detective Mick 'Scorcher' Kennedy and his new partner Richie Curran investigate the brutal attack on Jennifer and Patrick Spain and their two children in Brianstown, revealing layers of financial ruin, stalking, psychological breakdowns, and complex personal relationships. Sensitive topics include familial violence and mental health issues.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Tana French's Broken Harbour is lauded for its atmospheric tension and deep psychological insight. Critics appreciate the complex characters and well-crafted plot. However, some note the story's slower pace and occasional over-description. Overall, it’s praised as a compelling read within the crime genre, highlighting French’s skill in creating suspense and emotional depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Broken Harbour?

Readers who relish the psychological depth of Gone Girl and the intricate plotting of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo will be captivated by Tana French's Broken Harbour. Fans of intense, character-driven mysteries with a strong sense of place and complex protagonists will find this novel compelling.

Character List

The protagonist and first-person narrator, a dedicated murder detective known for his focus on appearance and high solve rate, whose personal life and worldview are challenged throughout the investigation.

Scorcher’s new partner on the case, an inexperienced but promising detective from a rough background, whose career is affected by his empathy and actions during the investigation.

Scorcher’s youngest sister, whose mental health struggles and unpredictable behavior play a crucial role in both Scorcher’s personal life and the investigation's development.

A prime suspect in the murder investigation, who is a close friend of the victims and becomes entangled in the case due to his connections and actions related to the Spains.

An initially sympathetic character central to the unfolding investigation, known for her commitment to appearances and her deepening complexities as her motivations are gradually revealed.

The murder victim portrayed through memories and investigation findings, who grappled with personal pressures and was dedicated to protecting his family.

Jenny’s sister and a photographer, who provides insight into Jenny's past and motivations and plays a pivotal role in the investigation due to her protective instincts.

Scorcher’s other sister, who is depicted as responsible and supportive, aiding in caring for Dina and representing a stabilizing presence in Scorcher’s life.

Book Details
Pages

450

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Mystery & Crime Fiction

Horror & Suspense

Psychological Fiction
Setting

Dublin, Ireland • 2010s

Theme
Fear

Death

Appearance & Reality
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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