I've been a fan of Tana French since reading the first of her Murder Squad novels, and I've liked her stand-alones as much as those.

The Searcher is no exception.

Cal, a retired Chicago police officer smarting from his wife's desertion, buys a ramshackle farmhouse in the rural Irish village of Ardnakelty and occupies himself with making the place livable, listening to music, getting acquainted with some of the neighbors and, occasionally, visiting the local pub. But he's barely settled in when his cop-sense alerts him to someone prowling around. At first he attributes it to bored kids, who may or may not pose a problem.

The prowler is eventually revealed to be a kid called Trey who, having learned of Cal's background, seeks his help in finding a missing older brother. Brendan Reddy, 19, had disappeared after boasting to friends about big plans. Cal has no desire to resume the investigative phase of his life. Yet, as he comes to know the fiercely independent Trey and sympathize with the kid's concern, he relents. His involvement uncovers the dark side of the seemingly idyllic village. And the questions he persists in asking soon bring trouble for both him and Trey.

Some might consider this novel too slow-moving. A key part of French's skill is delving into the psyche of her characters. The pace of this novel provides the time needed to get to know Cal, Trey and the other characters. French is a master of psychological insights, riveting suspense and characters so real you'd swear you know them. The descriptions of the Irish countryside are worthy of attention, also.

Ireland isn't bogged down in a gun culture like the U.S. So, one thing I'd suggest to French if she gives guns a prominent role in a future novel is to talk to someone who knows something about them. A .22 caliber rifle doesn't kick, nor does it roar.

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