Dervla McTiernan Makes Us Read IN THE WOODS by Tana French

Do all crime novel mysteries need to be resolved?This episode's pick: In the Woods by Tana French, the award-winning, Celtic-mist-soaked psychological mystery that launched the Dublin Murder Squad. When a young girl is found murdered at an archaeological dig, detective Rob Ryan is forced back into the very woods where he once vanished as a child, an incident he has no memory of, except for his blood-soaked shoes. As Rob and his partner Cassie Maddox investigate, the line between past and present blurs. It’s atmospheric, character-driven, and the kind of book that makes you glance over your shoulder at every little noise.This week’s guest - Dervla McTiernan is an internationally bestselling Irish-Australian crime writer and a great friend of ours. She’s the powerhouse behind the Cormac Reilly series, as well as the gripping standalones The Murder Rule and What Happened to Nina?. Her novels have topped bestseller lists around the world and earned shelves of awards, and we’re thrilled to have her with us.In this episode, we cover:Dervla being a superstar. What Dervla loves about Tana French’s writing.The expectations of a crime novel.Unreliable narrators.What makes a great villain.Authors reading their own reviews 📚 Books Mentioned on the PodTanya French – The LikenessTanya French – Secret PlaceTanya French – The Witch ElmStephen King – The OutsiderStephen King – Lisey’s StoryMarian Keyes – This Charming ManRhys Bowen – The Royal Spyness Series💋 And, of course, we rate it: Kiss, Kill, or Marry?Which way did the votes fall? You’ll have to listen in…⏰ Timestamps1.0 Welcome to Only Fans for Middle Aged Ladies in Glasses Cum-unity.2.03 – Meet Dervla McTiernan – Just how many awards is it legal to win??4.35 – Meet Tanya French – Into the Woods (not as many awards as Dervla..!)6.45 – Anthea bans Dervla for all time – serves her right.9.39 – Time to Kiss, Kill, Marry!12.13 – Dervla’s favourite backhanded compliment (looking at you Lit-fic!)13.44 – Rach tries to sort out Rob Ryan’s love life.14.36 – What do you MEAN they don’t solve the crime??18.43 – Just because people have been murdered, doesn’t mean we can’t have fun.20.40 – Is Rob Ryan a bit immature?21.41 – Rosalyn – DO NOT DATE.24.20 – Rob – unreliable narrator? Liar? MURDERERERER??24.40 – Dervla sensationally admits to ripping off Steven King and Marian Keyes.(we’ll never tell…)29.43 – The joy of reading to your (disinterested) partner.35.12 – Dervla recommends reading the back of the Cornflake box.39.24 – Demon Copperhead. What a pile of crap!40.34 – Brutal honesty – is the best policy. Sometimes.41.34 – Reading reviews – fun for ALL the family!42.20 – Dervla’s favourites.45.02 – Dust off Persuasion – and drag out your piano forte! Jane Austen rides again. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit readingbetweendeadlines.substack.com/subscribe