Reviews The Likeness by Tana French

As a music journalist, I don’t often find myself reaching for crime novels. But there I was, browsing the bookshop shelves on a rainy Sunday afternoon, when the striking cover of Tana French’s “The Likeness” caught my eye. Perhaps it was the promise of a psychological thriller that drew me in, or maybe it was simply the need for a change of pace from my usual diet of rock biographies and music criticism. Whatever the reason, I’m glad I took a chance on this book.

From the moment I cracked open “The Likeness,” I was transported into a world far removed from the gritty backstage areas and smoky clubs I usually write about. French’s protagonist, Detective Cassie Maddox, immediately intrigued me. Here was a character thrust into a situation that seemed almost too fantastical to be believable – going undercover to investigate the murder of a woman who not only looked exactly like her but was also using an alias Cassie had once used herself. It was a premise that required a certain suspension of disbelief, but French’s skillful writing quickly had me hooked.The Likeness by Tana French2

As I delved deeper into the story, I found myself increasingly impressed by French’s ability to create a palpable atmosphere of tension and unease. The old mansion where Cassie infiltrates the victim’s tight-knit group of friends became a character in its own right, its creaking floorboards and shadowy corners adding to the overall sense of mystery. It reminded me, in an odd way, of the legendary Headley Grange, where Led Zeppelin recorded some of their most haunting tracks. Both places seemed to hold secrets within their walls.

One of the strongest aspects of “The Likeness” is undoubtedly French’s character development. Cassie Maddox is a complex, flawed, and utterly human protagonist. Her struggle to maintain her true identity while becoming increasingly entangled in her undercover persona resonated with me deeply. As someone who has spent years interviewing musicians and trying to get to the heart of their true selves beneath the public personas, I found this exploration of identity particularly fascinating.

However, I must admit that at times, the pacing of the novel felt a bit slow for my taste. I’m used to the rapid-fire world of music journalism, where stories unfold at breakneck speed. French’s more measured approach, while undoubtedly contributing to the building of tension, occasionally had me wishing for a bit more momentum.

There were several passages in the book that stuck with me long after I’d finished reading. One in particular stands out: “I had learned early to assume something dark and lethal hidden at the heart of anything I loved. When I couldn’t find it, I responded with panic and kept looking until I had manufactured it.” This line hit me hard, reminding me of conversations I’ve had with musicians about the darker side of fame and creativity.

French’s prose is a thing of beauty. Her ability to paint vivid pictures with words is remarkable, creating a richly textured world that I could almost touch and smell. It’s a far cry from the punchy, direct style I usually employ in my music reviews, and I found myself envying her mastery of language.

Reading “The Likeness” has made me reflect on the nature of identity and belonging. In the music world, I’ve seen countless artists struggle with the disconnect between their public image and their true selves. French’s exploration of these themes through the lens of a psychological thriller offered a fresh perspective on issues I’ve long grappled with in my writing.

Would I recommend “The Likeness” to others? Absolutely. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea – particularly those who prefer their thrillers fast-paced and action-packed – I believe it offers a unique and thought-provoking reading experience. It’s a book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page, much like a haunting melody that refuses to leave your head.The Likeness by Tana French3

In fact, I’ve already passed my copy on to a fellow music journalist friend, curious to see how she’ll respond to this departure from our usual reading material. I have a feeling that, like me, she’ll find unexpected parallels between French’s world of psychological intrigue and our own experiences in the music industry.

“The Likeness” may not have the raw energy of a punk anthem or the complexity of a jazz improvisation, but it has its own unique rhythm and melody. It’s a book that plays with your perceptions, challenges your assumptions, and ultimately leaves you looking at the world – and yourself – a little differently. And isn’t that what all great art, whether it’s literature or music, should do?

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