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Damen Brook #5
A Killing Moon
A young student is kidnapped on her way home from the pub, but her nightmare is just beginning...DI Damen Brook is assigned the case but starts to realise that this might not be an isolated incident. With very little to go on, Brook trawls through the murky world of cheap labour and prostitution but comes up against a brick wall. But then bodies start turning up and the case is blown wide open. Who is kidnapping these girls and why? Brook has to put the pieces together before the next victim is taken...
496 pages, Paperback
First published May 7, 2015
6 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Steven Dunne
21 books123 followers Steven left Rhodesway School in Bradford, Yorkshire in 1976 after taking A-levels. He graduated from Kent University in 1979 and, after taking a year’s Post Graduate Certificate in Education at St Mary’s College in Twickenham, he undertook a variety of jobs in London, including Public Relations Consultant, freelance Journalist and supply teacher.
He wrote occasional articles for The Guardian, The Times and The Independent while working on various writing projects including his own brief career in stand-up comedy. During this time he co-wrote a comedy pilot for Channel 4 entitled Not Enough Poodles but, unfortunately it fell at the final commissioning hurdle. He wrote the Book for the award-winning Latchmere Theatre Christmas pantomime of Hansel and Gretel in 1989.
In 1988, he began teaching English in Croydon before moving to Derby in 1996, where he began to think about writing a novel.
After being turned onto thrillers by Thomas Harris' The Silence of the Lambs, he realised that most thrillers failed to deliver their promised exitement, so in 2007, after spending two fruitless years marketing the novel to the publishing industry, Steven self-published Reaper, a thriller about a serial killer who strikes in Derby. It sold over 1500 copies in the East Midlands and in 2008, and received very encouraging reviews. Harper Collins bought the rights and The Reaper was released internationally in 2009. A sequel, The Disciple, was released in August 2010. Both books were critically acclaimed. He signed a publishing deal at Headline to release the next DI Brook thriller Deity, which will be released in June 2012.
You can also contact him on Facebook.
He wrote occasional articles for The Guardian, The Times and The Independent while working on various writing projects including his own brief career in stand-up comedy. During this time he co-wrote a comedy pilot for Channel 4 entitled Not Enough Poodles but, unfortunately it fell at the final commissioning hurdle. He wrote the Book for the award-winning Latchmere Theatre Christmas pantomime of Hansel and Gretel in 1989.
In 1988, he began teaching English in Croydon before moving to Derby in 1996, where he began to think about writing a novel.
After being turned onto thrillers by Thomas Harris' The Silence of the Lambs, he realised that most thrillers failed to deliver their promised exitement, so in 2007, after spending two fruitless years marketing the novel to the publishing industry, Steven self-published Reaper, a thriller about a serial killer who strikes in Derby. It sold over 1500 copies in the East Midlands and in 2008, and received very encouraging reviews. Harper Collins bought the rights and The Reaper was released internationally in 2009. A sequel, The Disciple, was released in August 2010. Both books were critically acclaimed. He signed a publishing deal at Headline to release the next DI Brook thriller Deity, which will be released in June 2012.
You can also contact him on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 24, 2017
Didn't quite like this one as much as previous books, but still a solid read. Looking forward to book six. Fuller review to follow.
November 22, 2017
I’m very pleasantly surprised by Steven Dunne’s A Killing Moon. While browsing in the Waterstones book store in Derby, my temporary home, I saw this author’s books stacked in a pile with a sign “local author.” It’s a police procedural set in Derby, an English city I am somewhat familiar with—how can I not buy this book? I’m glad I did. This is a fast-paced, suspenseful crime story with interesting characters and an engrossing investigation. The fact that I am familiar with the areas mentioned, particularly around the Intu Derby and the train station and Ashbourne, the lovely village where the detective inspector lives, just added to my enjoyment of this book.
When Caitlin Kinnear is reported missing by her university roommate, Derby detectives are not convinced she is actually missing. Caitlin has a habit of taking off on her own to pursue adventures and not contacting friends or family before she does so. However, DI Damen Brook and his team soon uncover a pattern of girls disappearing from the Derby area—all non-English citizens. While they pursue the disappearance (or not) of Caitlin against the wishes of their supervisor, their investigation eventually widens to include religious zealots and migrant workers and they realize how easy it is for young women to disappear despite a modern world full of CCTV and electronic tracking of your (almost) every move.
This is fairly large book, over 400 pages, and I enjoyed it. The crimes are complex and there’s a lot of action. Dunne switches the point of view frequently, from the detectives to the victim to the perpetrators. I like that I was kept guessing throughout the novel, that the author kept me fooled. Not necessarily with red herrings, but making the crimes and the connections between the events more complex than they seemed or conversely not connected at all. There’s an excellent twist at the end—well, actually two—that reveals two characters to be more complex and somewhat darker than I realized. I really liked that, that DI Brook (who is really smart) was still fooled by this particular man and had his good intentions thrown back in his face. I like police procedurals that allow their detectives to be complex human beings and not just Sir Lancelots out to save the day with shiny, untarnished souls.
I also enjoyed the subtle humor of the book. Brook likes his grammar to be correct and dislikes phrases borrowed from America: “ ‘If we can get [suspect X] to play ball, it’ll give the CPS a slamdunk against the others.’ Brook was uncertain what Noble had said for a moment. Then, ‘Are you American, John?’ ”(443) Brook dislikes sports metaphors and also dislikes when people respond with “I’m good” instead of “I’m fine” or “No, I don’t need anything.” I find this particularly amusing because I say that a lot and I wonder how many of the English people I spoke to over the last few months responded by discreetly and politely rolling their eyes at my desecration of the English language.
This is book five in the DI Damen Brooks series and I will definitely go back to the beginning and read the first one. While I followed the events of the novel with no problem, there were certain (small) scenes that I think I would have understood better had I read the earlier novels. Dunne is a competent writer and the only quibble I have is that sometimes information about the crimes is repeated more than once as different investigators are told information that I, the reader, already know. I think the author could have used a time-saving sentence like “DI Brooks updated his superior about the latest information” to avoid the repetition. Otherwise, I found this novel complex and interesting and I tore through it. The fact that I called Derby home for about three months and got an extra thrill out of being able to picture exactly where some of the scenes took place was just icing on the cake. If you’re looking for a new (good) crime author, check out Steven Dunne.
When Caitlin Kinnear is reported missing by her university roommate, Derby detectives are not convinced she is actually missing. Caitlin has a habit of taking off on her own to pursue adventures and not contacting friends or family before she does so. However, DI Damen Brook and his team soon uncover a pattern of girls disappearing from the Derby area—all non-English citizens. While they pursue the disappearance (or not) of Caitlin against the wishes of their supervisor, their investigation eventually widens to include religious zealots and migrant workers and they realize how easy it is for young women to disappear despite a modern world full of CCTV and electronic tracking of your (almost) every move.
This is fairly large book, over 400 pages, and I enjoyed it. The crimes are complex and there’s a lot of action. Dunne switches the point of view frequently, from the detectives to the victim to the perpetrators. I like that I was kept guessing throughout the novel, that the author kept me fooled. Not necessarily with red herrings, but making the crimes and the connections between the events more complex than they seemed or conversely not connected at all. There’s an excellent twist at the end—well, actually two—that reveals two characters to be more complex and somewhat darker than I realized. I really liked that, that DI Brook (who is really smart) was still fooled by this particular man and had his good intentions thrown back in his face. I like police procedurals that allow their detectives to be complex human beings and not just Sir Lancelots out to save the day with shiny, untarnished souls.
I also enjoyed the subtle humor of the book. Brook likes his grammar to be correct and dislikes phrases borrowed from America: “ ‘If we can get [suspect X] to play ball, it’ll give the CPS a slamdunk against the others.’ Brook was uncertain what Noble had said for a moment. Then, ‘Are you American, John?’ ”(443) Brook dislikes sports metaphors and also dislikes when people respond with “I’m good” instead of “I’m fine” or “No, I don’t need anything.” I find this particularly amusing because I say that a lot and I wonder how many of the English people I spoke to over the last few months responded by discreetly and politely rolling their eyes at my desecration of the English language.
This is book five in the DI Damen Brooks series and I will definitely go back to the beginning and read the first one. While I followed the events of the novel with no problem, there were certain (small) scenes that I think I would have understood better had I read the earlier novels. Dunne is a competent writer and the only quibble I have is that sometimes information about the crimes is repeated more than once as different investigators are told information that I, the reader, already know. I think the author could have used a time-saving sentence like “DI Brooks updated his superior about the latest information” to avoid the repetition. Otherwise, I found this novel complex and interesting and I tore through it. The fact that I called Derby home for about three months and got an extra thrill out of being able to picture exactly where some of the scenes took place was just icing on the cake. If you’re looking for a new (good) crime author, check out Steven Dunne.
April 16, 2025
It was my great pleasure to renew my association with Steven Dunne at Waterstones in Burton-on-Trent. Having met him originally when he was signing books at that town's library promoting his second novel at that time, The Disciple. I have been a fan of his writing ever since and The Killing Moon is his fifth in his DI Damien Brook series set in and around Derby. At the local bookshop he oused his pride for his latest book, saying its the best yet and I am not ready or willing to disagree on that score.
A dark and menancing novel with a plot that engages you from the outset; as it is so well crafted you as the reader and forced to turn the pages but you feel you don't really have a grasp on events or the motive for the crime. It appears there is a serial killer preying on foreign students but the story will challenge you religious beliefs and question extremism in any faith. It carries some of the themes that Claire McGowan's brilliant novel The Dead Ground raised around abortion, the loss of missing persons and the value of life especially that of a new born baby. The Killing Moon however also challenges corruption in various positions of authority, exposes black market and foreign labour and human right to life and choice.
I love the mind of DI Brook and the growing relationship he has with DS John Noble. They work so well together and Noble is a much better detective for his association with his Boss. As he says the reason everyone wants to be part of his team is because Brook brings results and their work within the team is recognised. There are also running jokes around US terms, poor vocabulary, being an outsider and never knowing anyone's name. Previous problems also seem to be put aside; the chief, Charlton has a grudging respect for his star detective but Brook is using up the grace and favour very quickly. His nemesis on the local newspaper is on leave so can't taunt him for a lack of progress with the case. Brook is also in a better place mentally, for the time being at least.
So we have a wonderful Police procedural that is multi-layered and the mind of DI Brook ever sharp has a case that doesn't quite fit together. In the end hard work will solve and clear up most of the crime, but will Brook settle even if some of the quilty go free. "You asked me if I was prepared to live with taking a life". It has some meaning in Brook's career and could also be a tag line for this powerful and satisfying thriller.
When I see the author next I'll be able to look him in the eye and say I think his work is getting better with each book and encourage him to keep writing. To everyone else I can confidently say here is a series that is up there with the best in British crime fiction - read them
A dark and menancing novel with a plot that engages you from the outset; as it is so well crafted you as the reader and forced to turn the pages but you feel you don't really have a grasp on events or the motive for the crime. It appears there is a serial killer preying on foreign students but the story will challenge you religious beliefs and question extremism in any faith. It carries some of the themes that Claire McGowan's brilliant novel The Dead Ground raised around abortion, the loss of missing persons and the value of life especially that of a new born baby. The Killing Moon however also challenges corruption in various positions of authority, exposes black market and foreign labour and human right to life and choice.
I love the mind of DI Brook and the growing relationship he has with DS John Noble. They work so well together and Noble is a much better detective for his association with his Boss. As he says the reason everyone wants to be part of his team is because Brook brings results and their work within the team is recognised. There are also running jokes around US terms, poor vocabulary, being an outsider and never knowing anyone's name. Previous problems also seem to be put aside; the chief, Charlton has a grudging respect for his star detective but Brook is using up the grace and favour very quickly. His nemesis on the local newspaper is on leave so can't taunt him for a lack of progress with the case. Brook is also in a better place mentally, for the time being at least.
So we have a wonderful Police procedural that is multi-layered and the mind of DI Brook ever sharp has a case that doesn't quite fit together. In the end hard work will solve and clear up most of the crime, but will Brook settle even if some of the quilty go free. "You asked me if I was prepared to live with taking a life". It has some meaning in Brook's career and could also be a tag line for this powerful and satisfying thriller.
When I see the author next I'll be able to look him in the eye and say I think his work is getting better with each book and encourage him to keep writing. To everyone else I can confidently say here is a series that is up there with the best in British crime fiction - read them
May 10, 2015
So a 5th outing for DI Damen Brook then, one of my favourite literary detectives and this one packed a hell of a punch – straight into the action, no time to breathe and off we went.
This instalment centres around a whole bunch of missing girls who nobody realises are actually genuinely missing. Until Damen Brook, avoiding another rather boring assignment, sits up and takes notice. At the same time the reader is given a snapshot of one of the missing girls – Caitlin – what is happening to her is horrific, violent and will have you begging Brook to save her. But there is a lot more going on here and he will have his work cut out for him as he unravels a mystery with a heart of darkness.
The Brook novels are always really terrifically constructed to give the most emotional impact – in the case of “A Killing Moon” this is achieved through Caitlin’s character and through that of others who are caught up in this thing and you have a genuine sense of urgency as you are immersed in the tale. As time runs out for Caitlin and a whole load of other things start muddying the waters, it is addictive and totally heart stopping.
I do love Brook as a character -whilst he is in a way the quintessential “cop with issues” in his case it does not feel at all cliched. Brook embraces his flaws, is open about his previous mental health issues and with each novel takes a step further away from them – Steven Dunne has given his main protagonist an actual healing process, a journey that the reader can get behind and root for. An authentic one at that – he takes steps forward and steps back like the rest of us, there is a realism and gritty irony to that thread of the story that reflects life very well.
Brook is not alone – the author surrounds him with many other well drawn and intriguing characters (Angie is going to end up being a member of the team right? RIGHT?) and the mystery element is, as always, pitch perfect and often surprising. I’m willing to bet that a fair few readers are going to let out an actual cheer at the end of this one – it was a fantastic ending to what had been a scintillating read.
Really really excellent crime fiction. Roll on book 6.
This instalment centres around a whole bunch of missing girls who nobody realises are actually genuinely missing. Until Damen Brook, avoiding another rather boring assignment, sits up and takes notice. At the same time the reader is given a snapshot of one of the missing girls – Caitlin – what is happening to her is horrific, violent and will have you begging Brook to save her. But there is a lot more going on here and he will have his work cut out for him as he unravels a mystery with a heart of darkness.
The Brook novels are always really terrifically constructed to give the most emotional impact – in the case of “A Killing Moon” this is achieved through Caitlin’s character and through that of others who are caught up in this thing and you have a genuine sense of urgency as you are immersed in the tale. As time runs out for Caitlin and a whole load of other things start muddying the waters, it is addictive and totally heart stopping.
I do love Brook as a character -whilst he is in a way the quintessential “cop with issues” in his case it does not feel at all cliched. Brook embraces his flaws, is open about his previous mental health issues and with each novel takes a step further away from them – Steven Dunne has given his main protagonist an actual healing process, a journey that the reader can get behind and root for. An authentic one at that – he takes steps forward and steps back like the rest of us, there is a realism and gritty irony to that thread of the story that reflects life very well.
Brook is not alone – the author surrounds him with many other well drawn and intriguing characters (Angie is going to end up being a member of the team right? RIGHT?) and the mystery element is, as always, pitch perfect and often surprising. I’m willing to bet that a fair few readers are going to let out an actual cheer at the end of this one – it was a fantastic ending to what had been a scintillating read.
Really really excellent crime fiction. Roll on book 6.
May 12, 2015
A Killing Moon is the fifth book in the DI Damen Brook series and wow what a book.
I am a huge fan of this series and for me, even though all the books in the series are 5 star reads to me, A Killing Moon like The Disciple, pushes past the 5 star mark. If I could reward it more I certainly would do.
In A Killing Moon Brook is assigned a missing persons case. It's not long before Brook realises that there is a lot more to this case than first meets the eye and before you know it he is investigating the disappearance of a number of young women.
The author has yet again done a fantastic job with this book, he draws you in straight from the off and doesn't let go. I would say the last twenty percent of the story is some of the most chilling and gruesomest work to date by Steven. I literally could not turn (or in my case tap) the pages fast enough. There were so many twists at the end that I was literally shouting at my kindle in shock. My heart was literally racing by the end.
If you haven't read any of Steven Dunne's books I can't begin to tell you how much your missing out. This is one crime thriller series you DO NOT want to miss!
Thanks to Headline and Netgalley for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am a huge fan of this series and for me, even though all the books in the series are 5 star reads to me, A Killing Moon like The Disciple, pushes past the 5 star mark. If I could reward it more I certainly would do.
In A Killing Moon Brook is assigned a missing persons case. It's not long before Brook realises that there is a lot more to this case than first meets the eye and before you know it he is investigating the disappearance of a number of young women.
The author has yet again done a fantastic job with this book, he draws you in straight from the off and doesn't let go. I would say the last twenty percent of the story is some of the most chilling and gruesomest work to date by Steven. I literally could not turn (or in my case tap) the pages fast enough. There were so many twists at the end that I was literally shouting at my kindle in shock. My heart was literally racing by the end.
If you haven't read any of Steven Dunne's books I can't begin to tell you how much your missing out. This is one crime thriller series you DO NOT want to miss!
Thanks to Headline and Netgalley for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2015
Brook hasn't really got a choice; he can get involved in the latest initiative from Chief Super Charlton, and head up the scrap metal merchant project, or he can act on the suspicions of his colleague John Noble and use his skills as a cold-case investigator. Despite Charlton's initial objections, Brook gets his way, not realising that Noble really is onto something. Something that is going to turn into one of the most complex, difficult, violent and potentially lethal cases that Brook will get involved with.
Steven Dunne does not allow his readers to gently edge themselves into this story. Don't expect to gradually get to know the characters, oh no. Prepare to be shocked by the opening chapter, your mouth may hang open for the rest of the book too.
A Killing Moon touches on many issues and enters the underworld created by Polish immigrants in the seedy back streets of Derby. Also running through this story are themes of extremism and people who are so convinced by their die-hard beliefs that their actions become shocking and murderous. There are stomach-churning scenes of inhumanity and cruelty, the tension is high and the action moves quickly.
Brook and his police colleagues are believable and incredibly well created, from the almost stereotypical Chief Super, to the Constables. Brook has, over this series, begun to leave some of his past behind, and his colleagues are often surprised during A Killing Moon when he shows a more human side. Brook has always struggled to fit into the team, he has suffered a breakdown in the past, and also been off sick after being injured on duty. However, despite his more human side beginning to show, he still has a sharp tongue and does not tolerate idiots or 'Americanisms', his sarcasm can be cutting, but he is loyal to his colleagues ... and Steven Dunne elicits a form of loyalty from his readers towards Brook too.
Steven Dunne's writing is refined and sophisticated. He writes intelligent thrillers that challenge the reader. He teases the reader throughout, allowing them to have glimpses of what may be to come, but never giving away the full story. This only adds to the intensity of feelings evoked by the story and the anticipation of what is to come is spine-tingling.
A Killing Moon is, in my opinion, the best in the Damon Brook series so far, and that is high praise from me as this character is my favourite copper in literature today.
Steven Dunne does not allow his readers to gently edge themselves into this story. Don't expect to gradually get to know the characters, oh no. Prepare to be shocked by the opening chapter, your mouth may hang open for the rest of the book too.
A Killing Moon touches on many issues and enters the underworld created by Polish immigrants in the seedy back streets of Derby. Also running through this story are themes of extremism and people who are so convinced by their die-hard beliefs that their actions become shocking and murderous. There are stomach-churning scenes of inhumanity and cruelty, the tension is high and the action moves quickly.
Brook and his police colleagues are believable and incredibly well created, from the almost stereotypical Chief Super, to the Constables. Brook has, over this series, begun to leave some of his past behind, and his colleagues are often surprised during A Killing Moon when he shows a more human side. Brook has always struggled to fit into the team, he has suffered a breakdown in the past, and also been off sick after being injured on duty. However, despite his more human side beginning to show, he still has a sharp tongue and does not tolerate idiots or 'Americanisms', his sarcasm can be cutting, but he is loyal to his colleagues ... and Steven Dunne elicits a form of loyalty from his readers towards Brook too.
Steven Dunne's writing is refined and sophisticated. He writes intelligent thrillers that challenge the reader. He teases the reader throughout, allowing them to have glimpses of what may be to come, but never giving away the full story. This only adds to the intensity of feelings evoked by the story and the anticipation of what is to come is spine-tingling.
A Killing Moon is, in my opinion, the best in the Damon Brook series so far, and that is high praise from me as this character is my favourite copper in literature today.
September 14, 2015
The first book I read by Steven Dunne was Deity in 2012 which was the third book in the Damen Brook series - I enjoyed it so much that I then bought the previous two, however I am sure that many booklovers and bloggers can relate to this - I had all good intentions of reading them to catch up but books overtake books and they are still on my bookshelf, unread!
This is now book 5 (I need to also catch up with book 4) but despite being out of sync with the series, it didn't matter at all as A Killing Moon can easily be read and enjoyed on its own.
In this story there is no meandering around - the action starts straight away with the abduction of Caitlin Kinnear, a university student. It is soon realised that there could be links between Caitlin's disappearance and that of others and now shelved as 'cold cases'. Brook takes full advantage of being in his Chief Super's good books for once and against his superior's initial orders, begins to look again into the disappearances.
As if kidnapping isn't enough, what then follows is a story involving the seedier side of migrant labour and questionable business dealings. There are characters holding extreme religious and moral views. As the story progresses, it becomes more sinister and twisted and will make you fear for Caitlin.
Damen Brook is a complex character, he is not one for small talk but is well respected by those who work with him - if you needed help, he is the person you would want watching your back. He makes no secret of his previous mental health issues and indeed, makes the odd joke at his own expense. The partnership between him and his DS, John Noble, is one of those pairings that work so well, there is a mutual understanding with Noble often rescuing Brook from socially awkward situations.
The pace never lets up and I was so hooked by the story I read it at every opportunity even sitting up until the early hours to get to the end.
Steven Dunne has again created a dark and twisty crime thriller with such realistic characterisations and a well structured plot that keeps you constantly on your toes. It is without a doubt, one of my favourite crime series, and I WILL definitely have a Damen Brook catch up session as soon as I can.
May 5, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
My first impression was OMG how good is this book???? Wowzers what a fantastic book it was too- one of the best books I have ever read. It must have been good as I managed to read the book in less than 48 hours which is good going for me. At times I didn't dare breath as I was so caught up in the book. Although obviously I breathed in the end as I wouldn't be here otherwise!!.
The book begins with the disappearance of a young Irish student who is studying at Derby University and the investigation of her disappearance is the main theme of the book. Along the way other matters come to light. I won't post too much more about the storyline as I don't want to spoil the plot but what I will say is that the book is full of twists and turns right up to the very last page.
The characters are all believable and I really warmed to them. As is common within crime fiction the lead policeman DI Damen Brook has his demons but what I did like was the fact that his mental health wasn't hidden and he certainly wasn't ashamed of the fact that he suffered a breakdown before his transfer to Derby from the Metropolitan Police. I felt right there with the team during the investigation. Indeed at times I had to remind myself it was fiction and I was not a policewoman.
How Steven Dunne is not more widely recognised & more popular within the literary world is beyond me- especially when you consider how well the books are written. This series of books would be a great basis for a TV series.
I would definitely recommend this book to others and I would definitely read the books by this author again. In fact I can't wait for the next book in the series. Here's hoping the wait won't be too long.
A definite 5 out of 5 stars for me.
My first impression was OMG how good is this book???? Wowzers what a fantastic book it was too- one of the best books I have ever read. It must have been good as I managed to read the book in less than 48 hours which is good going for me. At times I didn't dare breath as I was so caught up in the book. Although obviously I breathed in the end as I wouldn't be here otherwise!!.
The book begins with the disappearance of a young Irish student who is studying at Derby University and the investigation of her disappearance is the main theme of the book. Along the way other matters come to light. I won't post too much more about the storyline as I don't want to spoil the plot but what I will say is that the book is full of twists and turns right up to the very last page.
The characters are all believable and I really warmed to them. As is common within crime fiction the lead policeman DI Damen Brook has his demons but what I did like was the fact that his mental health wasn't hidden and he certainly wasn't ashamed of the fact that he suffered a breakdown before his transfer to Derby from the Metropolitan Police. I felt right there with the team during the investigation. Indeed at times I had to remind myself it was fiction and I was not a policewoman.
How Steven Dunne is not more widely recognised & more popular within the literary world is beyond me- especially when you consider how well the books are written. This series of books would be a great basis for a TV series.
I would definitely recommend this book to others and I would definitely read the books by this author again. In fact I can't wait for the next book in the series. Here's hoping the wait won't be too long.
A definite 5 out of 5 stars for me.
May 21, 2016
Book 5 in the Damen Brook series proves once again that Steven Dunne's books keep getting better and better. A fast paced and gripping thriller based on missing girls in the Derby area. I love Damen Brook and would definitely put him up on my list of top 10 fictional police detectives alongside Roy Grace.
January 3, 2018
Powerful and disturbing story investigated by an intriguing bunch of detectives. Great stuff!
August 6, 2017
Up to Mr Dunne's usual high standard
So many twists and turns could not put the book down, very enjoyable read. Looking forward to the next book.
So many twists and turns could not put the book down, very enjoyable read. Looking forward to the next book.
August 26, 2022
Really good read in this great series, even if the plot was a bit improbable.
May 26, 2015
I have wanted to read Steven Dunne's books for a long time and so I was excited to see A Killing Moon on bookbridgr. I did want to read the first four books first, but A Killing Moon can be read as a standalone and will certainly leave new readers wanting to go back and read the earlier books thanks to a mixture of brilliant characterisation and masterful storytelling from Steven Dunne.
A Killing Moon is very much a mystery in the beginning, a beginning that was somewhat formulaic as a young student, Caitlin, leaves a bar drunk, only to then walk home by herself and find herself kidnapped. You could say that it is a bit of a cliche, but open a newspaper, turn on the TV news and you will probably find a tale not dissimilar to the one here. DI Damen Brook and his colleagues set out to find out what happened to Caitlin, Brook and his partner Noble coming to the opposite conclusion to the other officers: Caitlin didn't go missing of her own accord and evidence is soon discovered of other students that have gone missing in the past, all of them from overseas.
I don't know whether it was because the reader knew Caitlin hadn't just left town by herself, but some of the explanations from the officers as to why she probably wasn't kidnapped were a little bit weak, and quite frankly worrying that as resources continue to be stretched, cases such as this could be left by the wayside if there isn't somebody like Brook determined to find answers and not just throw the case to one side. I think this says a lot about the kind of officer, and person, that he is.
As A Killing Moon progresses we are introduced to a number of characters in the migrant scene, some connected, some not. And also the various people that share connections to the missing students; partners, friends, family, lecturers etc. I won't sit here and list them but what I most enjoyed was the scope for red herrings, and for the reader to be thrown off course as they read. I have to admit that I certainly was, and I constantly changed my mind as to what had happened as the conclusion drew near, let's just say I was well and truly slapped in the face. I had about four different scenarios playing out in my mind, and I was almost fully convinced about one of them. I must also add that I really enjoyed the ending, the last chapter in particular but of course I cannot elaborate. One must always be on guard for the spoiler police, but it was a brilliant last few chapters.
This being DI Damen Brook's fifth outing I have to say I didn't feel all that out of place meeting him for the first time. His background and where he is now being firmly established and portrayed to the reader, yet at the same time teasing them with enough information that they will want to discover more about him. I say this all the time (so perhaps I'm wrong?) but I think it can be difficult to create fictional detectives that stand out, and that are different in this overflowing genre and despite sharing a couple of traits I think you will always find in a detective, I found myself intrigued by Brook and what has made him the person he is today.
I finished A Killing Moon with great regret at not having read Steven Dunne sooner, a mistake I will definitely be rectifying very soon. I highly recommend this one to fans of solid police procedurals, and a story that keeps you guessing throughout.
A Killing Moon is very much a mystery in the beginning, a beginning that was somewhat formulaic as a young student, Caitlin, leaves a bar drunk, only to then walk home by herself and find herself kidnapped. You could say that it is a bit of a cliche, but open a newspaper, turn on the TV news and you will probably find a tale not dissimilar to the one here. DI Damen Brook and his colleagues set out to find out what happened to Caitlin, Brook and his partner Noble coming to the opposite conclusion to the other officers: Caitlin didn't go missing of her own accord and evidence is soon discovered of other students that have gone missing in the past, all of them from overseas.
I don't know whether it was because the reader knew Caitlin hadn't just left town by herself, but some of the explanations from the officers as to why she probably wasn't kidnapped were a little bit weak, and quite frankly worrying that as resources continue to be stretched, cases such as this could be left by the wayside if there isn't somebody like Brook determined to find answers and not just throw the case to one side. I think this says a lot about the kind of officer, and person, that he is.
As A Killing Moon progresses we are introduced to a number of characters in the migrant scene, some connected, some not. And also the various people that share connections to the missing students; partners, friends, family, lecturers etc. I won't sit here and list them but what I most enjoyed was the scope for red herrings, and for the reader to be thrown off course as they read. I have to admit that I certainly was, and I constantly changed my mind as to what had happened as the conclusion drew near, let's just say I was well and truly slapped in the face. I had about four different scenarios playing out in my mind, and I was almost fully convinced about one of them. I must also add that I really enjoyed the ending, the last chapter in particular but of course I cannot elaborate. One must always be on guard for the spoiler police, but it was a brilliant last few chapters.
This being DI Damen Brook's fifth outing I have to say I didn't feel all that out of place meeting him for the first time. His background and where he is now being firmly established and portrayed to the reader, yet at the same time teasing them with enough information that they will want to discover more about him. I say this all the time (so perhaps I'm wrong?) but I think it can be difficult to create fictional detectives that stand out, and that are different in this overflowing genre and despite sharing a couple of traits I think you will always find in a detective, I found myself intrigued by Brook and what has made him the person he is today.
I finished A Killing Moon with great regret at not having read Steven Dunne sooner, a mistake I will definitely be rectifying very soon. I highly recommend this one to fans of solid police procedurals, and a story that keeps you guessing throughout.
May 29, 2015
Reaper and Disciple were two of the first books I read when I got a Kindle and I loved them so much that I have avidly followed the series ever since.
I am always of the mind that series of books should be read in order to get the best as there are the usual back-stories as well as character development but the story contained within this book is complete and, as such, will work as a stand-alone novel.
In dodging the investigation of something he doesn't want to get involved with, DI Damon Brook and his "sidekick" DS John Noble continue to investigate the disappearance of a young Irish student due to have gone home for the holidays, but never arriving. Desperate not to get taken off this case, he expands his interest to include other missing "visitors" and soon finds himself involved in, what turns out to be, a very interesting case indeed. Running alongside this case is the death of another foreign girl. Are the two cases connected? There are certainly similarities and cross-overs in suspects. Will Brook manage to sort it all out in the end?
I love Mr Dunne's characterisation, especially the banter between Brook and Noble. The descriptive passages of the book balance and nicely complement the story-line without being distracting. The violence in this book is a little graphic in places but again, this is in keeping with the rest of the book rather than just being violence for shock sake. It is a very well written book, kept my attention throughout and make me a little sulky whenever I had to put it down to do boring "life-stuff". I just wanted to keep on going through all the twists and turns until I reached the action packed climax. Just need Mr Dunne to write the next one faster!
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am always of the mind that series of books should be read in order to get the best as there are the usual back-stories as well as character development but the story contained within this book is complete and, as such, will work as a stand-alone novel.
In dodging the investigation of something he doesn't want to get involved with, DI Damon Brook and his "sidekick" DS John Noble continue to investigate the disappearance of a young Irish student due to have gone home for the holidays, but never arriving. Desperate not to get taken off this case, he expands his interest to include other missing "visitors" and soon finds himself involved in, what turns out to be, a very interesting case indeed. Running alongside this case is the death of another foreign girl. Are the two cases connected? There are certainly similarities and cross-overs in suspects. Will Brook manage to sort it all out in the end?
I love Mr Dunne's characterisation, especially the banter between Brook and Noble. The descriptive passages of the book balance and nicely complement the story-line without being distracting. The violence in this book is a little graphic in places but again, this is in keeping with the rest of the book rather than just being violence for shock sake. It is a very well written book, kept my attention throughout and make me a little sulky whenever I had to put it down to do boring "life-stuff". I just wanted to keep on going through all the twists and turns until I reached the action packed climax. Just need Mr Dunne to write the next one faster!
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2015
Wow, wow and wow! There really is not much else to say.
Having read the four previous instalments in the Damen Brook series it is fair to say that I was already looking forward to this release. I was lucky enough to be selected by Netgalley to read the book in return for an honest review and so my purchased hardback copy can rest on the shelf in pristine glory.
Once again Steven Dunne has delivered a superbly crafted thriller that grips you from the first page and just doesn’t let go until you find yourself hurtling towards the end – and what an end! The journey you take with Damen Brook and John Noble is utterly absorbing and scarily realistic. The twists and turns the story takes on this ever-accelerating journey lead you through the worlds of poverty and immigration and into the absolute horror of moral beliefs gone wildly out of control. All the while the characters, even minor ones, are so well-developed that you swing from sympathy to horror and back again within the turn of a page.
I could go on and comment on the growth of Damen Brook and the development of John Noble and the full cast of supporting characters who have figured throughout the series, but suffice it to say that they don’t disappoint in any way.
As always in Steven Dunne’s books the writing is just spectacular – grammar, vocabulary, syntax – he is a true craftsman and this makes the reader’s journey even more enjoyable. Oh, how I wish that every book I read was this well written.
There are not enough superlatives for me to use in recommending this book. I have given it five stars but want to give it more.
Having read the four previous instalments in the Damen Brook series it is fair to say that I was already looking forward to this release. I was lucky enough to be selected by Netgalley to read the book in return for an honest review and so my purchased hardback copy can rest on the shelf in pristine glory.
Once again Steven Dunne has delivered a superbly crafted thriller that grips you from the first page and just doesn’t let go until you find yourself hurtling towards the end – and what an end! The journey you take with Damen Brook and John Noble is utterly absorbing and scarily realistic. The twists and turns the story takes on this ever-accelerating journey lead you through the worlds of poverty and immigration and into the absolute horror of moral beliefs gone wildly out of control. All the while the characters, even minor ones, are so well-developed that you swing from sympathy to horror and back again within the turn of a page.
I could go on and comment on the growth of Damen Brook and the development of John Noble and the full cast of supporting characters who have figured throughout the series, but suffice it to say that they don’t disappoint in any way.
As always in Steven Dunne’s books the writing is just spectacular – grammar, vocabulary, syntax – he is a true craftsman and this makes the reader’s journey even more enjoyable. Oh, how I wish that every book I read was this well written.
There are not enough superlatives for me to use in recommending this book. I have given it five stars but want to give it more.
November 3, 2015
A young Irish student, Caitlin Kinnear goes missing on her way home from a night out. With no clue as to her whereabouts and doubt over whether or not a crime has even been committed DI Damen Brook finds himself under pressure from superintendent Charlton to turn his hand to some scrap metal theft investigation...if you know Brook then you know that's just not his thing!
He is determined to pursue all potential leads on the missing girl and he soon finds a connection with other young migrant women. Soon we are drawn into a shady world of Polish "businessmen" and extreme Pro Life protesters.
Brook and his DS Noble work well together...socially awkward Brook relying on Noble to pave the way in social niceties. Brook can be an enigma to many but he is a thorough and decent detective who isn't afraid to ruffle some feathers in his quest for justice.
There is however a darker side to Brook alluded to in each of Steven Dunne's books and a little more is uncovered each time.
Gritty and dark..it kept me guessing all the way to the end. Terrifying twists and turns made it impossible to put the book down...a rollercoaster of emotions but at the end left me wanting more. I cannot think of any negatives other than I didn't want it to end!
Over the five of Steven's books Brook's character is slowly uncovered but enough of a mystery to leave you wanting even more. Although part of a series it can be read alone but I would recommend that you read the other 4 too.
I only wish I could award more than five stars! Bloody brilliant!!
He is determined to pursue all potential leads on the missing girl and he soon finds a connection with other young migrant women. Soon we are drawn into a shady world of Polish "businessmen" and extreme Pro Life protesters.
Brook and his DS Noble work well together...socially awkward Brook relying on Noble to pave the way in social niceties. Brook can be an enigma to many but he is a thorough and decent detective who isn't afraid to ruffle some feathers in his quest for justice.
There is however a darker side to Brook alluded to in each of Steven Dunne's books and a little more is uncovered each time.
Gritty and dark..it kept me guessing all the way to the end. Terrifying twists and turns made it impossible to put the book down...a rollercoaster of emotions but at the end left me wanting more. I cannot think of any negatives other than I didn't want it to end!
Over the five of Steven's books Brook's character is slowly uncovered but enough of a mystery to leave you wanting even more. Although part of a series it can be read alone but I would recommend that you read the other 4 too.
I only wish I could award more than five stars! Bloody brilliant!!
August 11, 2015
I read A Killing Moon as a standalone and really enjoyed it. It's the 5th book in the DI Damen Brook series. I had previously only read the first book The Reaper, missing out the other three books so far to read this one.
In this intriguing plot, Irish student Caitlin Kinnear is reported missing, yet the police are not convinced that any harm has come to her. Then their research revealed that several young women have disappeared over the last few months. When the body of one of these young women turns up, it seems that a series of kidnappings has taken place, with this one resulting in murder. Now that Caitlin's life is believed to be in danger, the race is on to find her.
A Killing Moon hooks you in from the first chapter. It has a complex plot with many twists and turns. The descriptions are gruesome in places, but in keeping with the well-crafted plot. The writing flows from beginning to end and kept me intrigued al the way through. I had no idea who was behind the kidnappings.
Brook is a great protagonist with a lack of social skills and twisted dark side. I now want to read the other three books even more, to see how he has developed over the series so far.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher through NetGalley and Bookbridgr in exchange for an honest review.
In this intriguing plot, Irish student Caitlin Kinnear is reported missing, yet the police are not convinced that any harm has come to her. Then their research revealed that several young women have disappeared over the last few months. When the body of one of these young women turns up, it seems that a series of kidnappings has taken place, with this one resulting in murder. Now that Caitlin's life is believed to be in danger, the race is on to find her.
A Killing Moon hooks you in from the first chapter. It has a complex plot with many twists and turns. The descriptions are gruesome in places, but in keeping with the well-crafted plot. The writing flows from beginning to end and kept me intrigued al the way through. I had no idea who was behind the kidnappings.
Brook is a great protagonist with a lack of social skills and twisted dark side. I now want to read the other three books even more, to see how he has developed over the series so far.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher through NetGalley and Bookbridgr in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2018
A Missing Irish Girl
On Friday the 20th March Caitlin Kinnear a Catholic girl left the Flowerpot pub and walked home up Kedleston Road through the heavy snow, as she walked she texted a message to her best friend to saying I'm done. Heading off. Coming. But through her walk home she heard an angry mocking voice calling her nick name Kit-ty.
Caitlin was a student who simply disappeared without trace. Five other girls from the west Midlands disappeared without trace. Was this a sign of a pattern? or isolated incidents?
We are rooting that Caitlin is not in any danger or that anything terrible has happened to her.
We are put on the very edge of our seat in hope that DI Brooke will find Caitlin as time as is running out to find her, he needs to find her before it is too late.
I highly recommend A Killing Moon to all crime fans. I hope that many readers will enjoy reading this gripping thriller as much as I did.
This is a very fast well-paced thriller from an author who is clearly going places.
July 11, 2015
For the booktrail locations - Booktrail of A Killing Moon
If you know Derby well, this will freak you out as the streets lead you and draw you in to a very realistic scenario and plot. Scarily so. The walk Caitlin does at the start is one I’ve done myself several times as have many students over the years – not any more!
This was a good read as it really got me going! The flashbacks and references to past events really helped build the tension as to whether Caitlin would be found and found alive.
The moral maze which this book essentially is was a weird place to be as I went in with one image and judgement and ended up with quite a another. Poverty and immigration aren’t that black and white and morals vary widely depending on situation.
A deep, dark, Derby thriller
If you know Derby well, this will freak you out as the streets lead you and draw you in to a very realistic scenario and plot. Scarily so. The walk Caitlin does at the start is one I’ve done myself several times as have many students over the years – not any more!
This was a good read as it really got me going! The flashbacks and references to past events really helped build the tension as to whether Caitlin would be found and found alive.
The moral maze which this book essentially is was a weird place to be as I went in with one image and judgement and ended up with quite a another. Poverty and immigration aren’t that black and white and morals vary widely depending on situation.
A deep, dark, Derby thriller
November 21, 2016
I never hesitate to buy Steven Dunne's novels. Every one of the books is better then the next one and A Killing Moon is no exception. It is a thrilling crime novel with heart and emotions and I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for his next novel.
February 11, 2016
What a great mystery! Had me guessing what will happen till the very end. This was my first book by Steven Dunne, even though it's the 5th in a series.
December 11, 2023
The 5th in this series featuring DI Damon Brooke, an interesting character. A young Irish girl, a student, goes missing and Brooke’s off sider DS John Noble thinks it is worth pursuing, and he finds a number of young foreign girls have gone missing over the last few years in Darby. All the girls seem to have a link to an Abortion Clinic, and the protesters outside the clinic. Why are these girls being taken, and why have their families not heard from them? He is determined to find out what happened to these girls. An interesting story line, and well narrated audio book by Jonathon Keeble.
March 2, 2017
This book had me fascinated and confused all at the same time. Loved it. I though DCI Brook could not surprise me any more but I was so wrong. Loved it and highly recommend it.
July 7, 2018
My first venture into the Damon Brook series by Steven Dunne and I was very impressed. Extremely fast paced thriller.
May 9, 2020
Usually a big fan of Brook but there was something missing with this story.
August 5, 2024
I found it slow to start with, but after I’d finished it I found I’d enjoyed it. Though I didn’t realise it was part of a series.
October 11, 2016
I liked all of Steven Dunne's "D.I. Brooke" series so far, but this one is in my opinion, the weakest link. It started out well and progressed nicely to about, just over the half-way mark. Then, I started to lose interest and I just wanted to get to the end. The end, another problem, was a complete let-down. Motives I feel were half-assed, the finale was just too O.T.T., I don't know, it did not work for me. The subject matter is fairly topical right now and relevant, but it could have been weaved into a much better plot/storyline. There have been a number of girls reported missing, some from Derby, all seem to have been there at some time and all are from other countries. An Abortion Clinic seems to be a link in the disappearances and there is also another story running alongside, which crosses over the main crimes. I hope the next one is better than this.
May 23, 2015
Having read and loved the first four of D.I. Damen Brook series I was delighted to be selected by NetGalley to read A Killing Moon in exchange for an honest review so here goes - This the 5th book of the series and I absolutely devoured it; Steven Dunne grabs you from the first chapter and crafts an intelligent and superbly written thriller which keeps you turning the pages, rooting for the victims and Brook and his team and literally holding your breath in places.
In A killing Moon we see Brook growing and beginning to come to terms with his past, We learn more about the people on his team, particularly Noble who seems more in tune with Brook than ever and who was the one to insist that the missing girls equated to more than met the eye. We are asked moral questions and introduced to characters who's initial concerns, beliefs and good intentions become warped into evil and murderous extremism.
The whole book flows brilliantly and the plot and characters are skilfully revealed. The last quarter of the book contains some of the most stomach-churning, tense and chillingly gruesome writing I have encountered and the final twist is sheer brilliance.
As with all of the D I Damen Brooks books, A Killing Moon could be read as a stand alone but you would be depriving yourself of the pleasure of reading the first four brilliant stories and knowing more about what makes Brook and his team tick - so treat yourself and read all five in order :)
An absolute unreserved 5 stars - such a clever, clever book - Just read it!!
In A killing Moon we see Brook growing and beginning to come to terms with his past, We learn more about the people on his team, particularly Noble who seems more in tune with Brook than ever and who was the one to insist that the missing girls equated to more than met the eye. We are asked moral questions and introduced to characters who's initial concerns, beliefs and good intentions become warped into evil and murderous extremism.
The whole book flows brilliantly and the plot and characters are skilfully revealed. The last quarter of the book contains some of the most stomach-churning, tense and chillingly gruesome writing I have encountered and the final twist is sheer brilliance.
As with all of the D I Damen Brooks books, A Killing Moon could be read as a stand alone but you would be depriving yourself of the pleasure of reading the first four brilliant stories and knowing more about what makes Brook and his team tick - so treat yourself and read all five in order :)
An absolute unreserved 5 stars - such a clever, clever book - Just read it!!
May 9, 2015
Caitlin Kinnear an Irish student goes missing, but the police are unable to make any headway on her case. That is until DI Damen Brook begins to apply his unique skills of thinking lateral and making the type of connections that reveals Caitlin is only one of many similar abductions.
As usual the pleasure with a Steven Dunne book unfolding is following the switchback trail of breadcrumbs in very much the same way that DI Brook must do. For this reason this series of books has the feel of the old fashioned crime books with all the clues and red herrings, but without being overwhelmed by a barrage of modern forensics and police procedural techniques. Part of the enjoyment is also the character of Damen Brook as he deploys his razor sharp observation and intelligence to manipulate his suspects into revealing what they are attempting to conceal. The character of Brook is developing nicely in the sense that although he is a compassionate man, when it comes to dealing with injustice there is not only grit but a darker side to his personality that is beginning to peek through.
As usual the pleasure with a Steven Dunne book unfolding is following the switchback trail of breadcrumbs in very much the same way that DI Brook must do. For this reason this series of books has the feel of the old fashioned crime books with all the clues and red herrings, but without being overwhelmed by a barrage of modern forensics and police procedural techniques. Part of the enjoyment is also the character of Damen Brook as he deploys his razor sharp observation and intelligence to manipulate his suspects into revealing what they are attempting to conceal. The character of Brook is developing nicely in the sense that although he is a compassionate man, when it comes to dealing with injustice there is not only grit but a darker side to his personality that is beginning to peek through.
August 6, 2015
A Killing Moon is another brilliantly tense thriller from Derby's very own crime writer Steven Dunne. This is the fifth in the DI Brook series and I think I'm getting used to having my home city's streets filled with murderers - at least, fictional ones! Brook seems now to have put his past firmly behind him, to be recovering from the psychological scars of his encounter with The Reaper.
The plot twists in satisfyingly complex ways - and, even though the reader, seeing more than one side to the story, is often a couple of steps ahead of the police enquiry, it isn't possible to foresee how things will end. As with earlier DI Brook stories there's a certain level of moral ambivalence in A Killing Moon - people with good principles end up doing horrific things and sometimes the end might justify the questionable means.
Full review here http://ourbookreviewsonline.blogspot....
The plot twists in satisfyingly complex ways - and, even though the reader, seeing more than one side to the story, is often a couple of steps ahead of the police enquiry, it isn't possible to foresee how things will end. As with earlier DI Brook stories there's a certain level of moral ambivalence in A Killing Moon - people with good principles end up doing horrific things and sometimes the end might justify the questionable means.
Full review here http://ourbookreviewsonline.blogspot....
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