If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that dig deep into the human psyche, Tana French is an author who will keep you up all night turning pages. Known for her atmospheric writing, complex characters, and twisty plots set against the backdrop of Ireland, French has built a devoted following since her debut in 2007. Whether you’re diving into her interconnected Dublin Murder Squad series or her more recent standalone novels and the Cal Hooper trilogy, reading her books in order enhances the experience by revealing subtle connections and character developments.
In this guide, we’ll break down all of Tana French’s books in order, grouped by series. We’ve organized them into easy-to-read tables for quick reference. If you’re new to her work, start with In the Woods—it’s a masterful introduction to her style. Let’s explore the complete list!
Tana French Books In Order Of Series
Dublin Murder Squad Series in Order
The Dublin Murder Squad series is French’s flagship collection, featuring detectives from the same squad but with each book focusing on a different protagonist. While they can be read as standalones, following the publication order lets you appreciate the recurring themes and cameos. Here’s the full list:
| Order | Title | Publication Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | In the Woods | 2007 |
| 2 | The Likeness | 2008 |
| 3 | Faithful Place | 2010 |
| 4 | Broken Harbour | 2012 |
| 5 | The Secret Place | 2014 |
| 6 | The Trespasser | 2016 |
This series masterfully blends police procedurals with deep emotional introspection, often exploring trauma, secrets, and the blurred lines between truth and deception.
Cal Hooper Series in Order
Shifting gears from the urban grit of Dublin, the Cal Hooper series follows a retired Chicago detective who relocates to a remote Irish village for a quieter life—only to find himself entangled in local mysteries. This trilogy builds on themes of community, loyalty, and revenge. Read them in this order for the best narrative flow:
| Order | Title | Publication Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Searcher | 2020 |
| 2 | The Hunter | 2024 |
| 3 | The Keeper | 2025 |
With its slower pace and richly drawn rural setting, this series feels like a cozy mystery with a dark edge, perfect for fans of atmospheric suspense.
Standalone Novels
Tana French has also penned compelling standalones that showcase her versatility. These books stand on their own, offering fresh stories outside her series.
| Title | Publication Year |
|---|---|
| The Witch Elm | 2018 |
The Witch Elm is a gripping tale of privilege, identity, and buried family secrets— a must-read if you enjoy character-driven thrillers.
5 FAQs About Tana French Books
- What is the best order to read Tana French books? For the Dublin Murder Squad, stick to publication order, starting with In the Woods. The Cal Hooper series should be read sequentially from The Searcher. Her standalone, The Witch Elm, can be enjoyed anytime.
- Do I need to read the Dublin Murder Squad books in order? Not strictly, as each book features a new lead detective and a self-contained mystery. However, reading in order enhances the experience with subtle references to previous cases.
- How many books has Tana French written? As of 2025, Tana French has written 10 books: 6 in the Dublin Murder Squad series, 3 in the Cal Hooper series, and 1 standalone.
- Is Tana French’s writing style similar to other authors’? Fans often compare her to authors like Gillian Flynn, Kate Atkinson, or Dennis Lehane for her psychological depth and intricate plots.
- What’s next for Tana French? The Keeper (2025) concludes the Cal Hooper trilogy. Keep an eye out for announcements on future projects, as French continues to captivate with her evolving style.
Conclusion
Tana French’s books offer a perfect blend of suspense, character insight, and Irish charm, making her a standout in the crime fiction genre. Whether you’re unraveling murders in Dublin or navigating village intrigues, her stories linger long after the final page. If you haven’t started yet, grab In the Woods and prepare for an addictive ride. Which Tana French book is your favorite? Share in the comments below—we’d love to hear your thoughts! For more reading guides, stay tuned to our blog.
