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Detective Kelly Moore #1
This Dark Place
Priscilla’s body lay motionless on the couch in front of her. They were blood sisters, but Avery never thought it would end like this - thrust against her will into this dark place.
Priscilla Ames is the daughter of a wealthy Wall Street hedge fund manager that has made millions in the stock market. She's reckless, impulsive, always wanting to be the center of attention, but one thing has been constant - her friendship with Avery Moss. They are like sisters that share adventures and look out for each other in times of need.
Avery Moss comes from a working-class family in Brooklyn. She met Priscilla as an 8 year-old at an elite NYC private school where Avery was on a one-year scholarship. They became friends on the first day of school when Avery beat up a boy that was teasing Priscilla. When Avery’s scholarship was discontinued, Priscilla’s father, Peter Ames, stepped in and has supported her schooling ever since, including sending the girls to a prestigious acting college in London
NYPD Detective Kelly Moore is a member of the elite Queens Violent Felony Squad. She is smart and strong and direct. Years ago, her older sister disappeared while traveling in England and the case was never solved, haunting all of her investigations. Moore’s greatest strength and her greatest weakness are two sides of the same when she’s on her game, she works from the inside out, acting on hunches and then backing them up with evidence – but under duress, she acts rashly, leaping before she looks.
When Priscilla’s body is found by Avery in a posh London flat and her death is splashed across headlines worldwide, Kelly Moore flies across the Atlantic to join a crack team of British investigators working on the case.
Together with the London Metropolitan Police, Kelly must track down a twisted serial killer who seems to know her every move and her darkest secrets. As the body count rises, and panic spreads, the killer threatens to make Kelly the next victim.
In a heart-racing game of cat and mouse, Kelly must outwit this elusive master of surveillance – who might be the last person she suspects.
Fans of Robert Bryndza, Karin Slaughter, and Rachel Abbot will love discovering this thrilling new series today.
Priscilla Ames is the daughter of a wealthy Wall Street hedge fund manager that has made millions in the stock market. She's reckless, impulsive, always wanting to be the center of attention, but one thing has been constant - her friendship with Avery Moss. They are like sisters that share adventures and look out for each other in times of need.
Avery Moss comes from a working-class family in Brooklyn. She met Priscilla as an 8 year-old at an elite NYC private school where Avery was on a one-year scholarship. They became friends on the first day of school when Avery beat up a boy that was teasing Priscilla. When Avery’s scholarship was discontinued, Priscilla’s father, Peter Ames, stepped in and has supported her schooling ever since, including sending the girls to a prestigious acting college in London
NYPD Detective Kelly Moore is a member of the elite Queens Violent Felony Squad. She is smart and strong and direct. Years ago, her older sister disappeared while traveling in England and the case was never solved, haunting all of her investigations. Moore’s greatest strength and her greatest weakness are two sides of the same when she’s on her game, she works from the inside out, acting on hunches and then backing them up with evidence – but under duress, she acts rashly, leaping before she looks.
When Priscilla’s body is found by Avery in a posh London flat and her death is splashed across headlines worldwide, Kelly Moore flies across the Atlantic to join a crack team of British investigators working on the case.
Together with the London Metropolitan Police, Kelly must track down a twisted serial killer who seems to know her every move and her darkest secrets. As the body count rises, and panic spreads, the killer threatens to make Kelly the next victim.
In a heart-racing game of cat and mouse, Kelly must outwit this elusive master of surveillance – who might be the last person she suspects.
Fans of Robert Bryndza, Karin Slaughter, and Rachel Abbot will love discovering this thrilling new series today.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2018
42 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Claire Kittridge
3 books24 followersClaire Kittridge grew up in Brooklyn, NY. A dedicated reader, triathlete, and boxing fan, she fell in love with England and its great fictional detectives while traveling around Britain as a teenager.
Claire lives in New York City with her cat, Chairman Meow. She is currently at work on Fire Music, the third Kelly Moore novel.
Claire lives in New York City with her cat, Chairman Meow. She is currently at work on Fire Music, the third Kelly Moore novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 11, 2018
THIS DARK PLACE is the debut crime thriller novel by Claire Kittridge in the Detective Kelly Moore series, introducing a tough streetwise cop who will go to any lengths to catch a killer. I loved this book and was engrossed from start to finish. This novel is definitely a winner…and a new series to follow!
Priscilla Ames, a nineteen-year old female had been a US citizen living in London on a student Visa. She had died from a bullet to the brain, shot at close range. The autopsy was inclusive as to whether it was homicide or suicide, due to the angle of the wound. Her roommate, and best friend, Avery Moss, had found the body and called it in. There were no witnesses.
Priscilla’s body lay motionless on the couch in front of her. They were blood sisters, but Avery never thought it would end like this - thrust against her will into this dark place.
Priscilla came from a well-off family, unlike her roommate, Avery who had been shuffled through the foster care system, never knowing her parents. The girls had been at University together in New York, and then had come to London together. They were like sisters!
Now with the brutal death of his daughter, Mr. Ames, with all his wealth and power, was insistent on NYPD Detective Kelly Moore coming over to assist with the case. Many years ago, he had been exposed to her success in solving a case as the lead investigator.
“His only daughter dead, her best friend accused.”
Together with the London Metropolitan Police, Kelly must track down a twisted killer who seems to know her every move. As the body count rises, and panic spreads, the killer threatens to make Kelly the next victim.
This is a game of cat and mouse, where Kelly must outwit the killer.
This novel was well written and kept me totally consumed in the outcome of the plot. The characters were well developed and Kelly is one detective I wouldn’t want to mess with. I liked her gutsy street-wise take on life and her sense of humor. Looking forward to following Kelly on her journey in this new promising series. Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Delicate Prey Publishing for my copy.
Expected publication: April 17th 2018
Priscilla Ames, a nineteen-year old female had been a US citizen living in London on a student Visa. She had died from a bullet to the brain, shot at close range. The autopsy was inclusive as to whether it was homicide or suicide, due to the angle of the wound. Her roommate, and best friend, Avery Moss, had found the body and called it in. There were no witnesses.
Priscilla’s body lay motionless on the couch in front of her. They were blood sisters, but Avery never thought it would end like this - thrust against her will into this dark place.
Priscilla came from a well-off family, unlike her roommate, Avery who had been shuffled through the foster care system, never knowing her parents. The girls had been at University together in New York, and then had come to London together. They were like sisters!
Now with the brutal death of his daughter, Mr. Ames, with all his wealth and power, was insistent on NYPD Detective Kelly Moore coming over to assist with the case. Many years ago, he had been exposed to her success in solving a case as the lead investigator.
“His only daughter dead, her best friend accused.”
Together with the London Metropolitan Police, Kelly must track down a twisted killer who seems to know her every move. As the body count rises, and panic spreads, the killer threatens to make Kelly the next victim.
This is a game of cat and mouse, where Kelly must outwit the killer.
This novel was well written and kept me totally consumed in the outcome of the plot. The characters were well developed and Kelly is one detective I wouldn’t want to mess with. I liked her gutsy street-wise take on life and her sense of humor. Looking forward to following Kelly on her journey in this new promising series. Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Delicate Prey Publishing for my copy.
Expected publication: April 17th 2018
April 12, 2018
This is my lucky day! A new author and her debut novel which looks like the beginning of a fabulous series.
An American student is found dead of a self-inflicted gun shot to her head. The victim's father places a call to NYPD Detective Kelly Moore, who immediately flies to London to join a team of British investigators.
Kelly is a street smart cop, dedicated, who will not rest until she brings justice to the victims and closure to their families and loved ones. The London Metropolitan Police aren't quite sure what to make of this American cop, but DCI Jack Dunne is willing to work with her.
As their investigation continues, they find they are looking for a twisted killer who seems to know everything they do. Could there be a leak in the police department? Are there crooked cops in the mix?
More bodies fall and Moore and Dunne find themselves in a race to identify and stop this killer before he kills again.
There are plenty of suspects to take a hard look at. Cops, newspaper reporters, friends of the victim ... they all need to be looked at .. because this killer is hiding in plain sight.
This is a fast paced well written debut novel. This is an author well worth watching. I look forward to follow the further adventures of Detective Kelly Moore.
Many thanks to the author and TBC Reviewer Request Group for the advanced digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
An American student is found dead of a self-inflicted gun shot to her head. The victim's father places a call to NYPD Detective Kelly Moore, who immediately flies to London to join a team of British investigators.
Kelly is a street smart cop, dedicated, who will not rest until she brings justice to the victims and closure to their families and loved ones. The London Metropolitan Police aren't quite sure what to make of this American cop, but DCI Jack Dunne is willing to work with her.
As their investigation continues, they find they are looking for a twisted killer who seems to know everything they do. Could there be a leak in the police department? Are there crooked cops in the mix?
More bodies fall and Moore and Dunne find themselves in a race to identify and stop this killer before he kills again.
There are plenty of suspects to take a hard look at. Cops, newspaper reporters, friends of the victim ... they all need to be looked at .. because this killer is hiding in plain sight.
This is a fast paced well written debut novel. This is an author well worth watching. I look forward to follow the further adventures of Detective Kelly Moore.
Many thanks to the author and TBC Reviewer Request Group for the advanced digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
February 22, 2020
Note: This is the first book in the series, therefore please read in order. Thank you.
I was first pushed to read this book after putting in a request to read the sequel in a book club and to read in order obviously.
So that was how my love story started with this book.
This book managed to exceed all of the expectations I had set out for it. So many twists and turns, fast pacing, witty writing and the plot fitting in nicely, generally.
I can't comment on it too much as it's been some time since I've read this book. Consider this as a late review.
But I do know this book was fabulous and everything I could've wanted from this debut mystery novel by Claire Kitteridge.
So thank you to the bookclub TBCREVIEWS for allowing me a chance to discover this author's books.
I sincerely hope y'all enjoy this novel and this series too.
Until the next read,
TMR
I was first pushed to read this book after putting in a request to read the sequel in a book club and to read in order obviously.
So that was how my love story started with this book.
This book managed to exceed all of the expectations I had set out for it. So many twists and turns, fast pacing, witty writing and the plot fitting in nicely, generally.
I can't comment on it too much as it's been some time since I've read this book. Consider this as a late review.
But I do know this book was fabulous and everything I could've wanted from this debut mystery novel by Claire Kitteridge.
So thank you to the bookclub TBCREVIEWS for allowing me a chance to discover this author's books.
I sincerely hope y'all enjoy this novel and this series too.
Until the next read,
TMR
July 22, 2018
This is an excellent debut novel by a talented new writer of thrillers. Fast paced and compelling with engaging characters and promising to be the first of a series.
When Priscilla Ames, a young American theatre student in London is found with a gunshot wound to the head, her room mate and friend from childhood, Avery Ames, is immediately suspected. Priscilla's wealthy father asks for NYPD Detective Kelly Moore to travel to London to assist the UK police. When the killer strikes again, Kelly and DCI Jack Dunne must use all their wits trying to catch a ruthless killer who always seems to be one step ahead. Lots of twists, suspects and red herrings in this well written thriller. I'm glad the author has foreshadowed that we will see more of Kelly Moore in the future. 4.5★
With thanks to the author for a digital copy of the book to read
When Priscilla Ames, a young American theatre student in London is found with a gunshot wound to the head, her room mate and friend from childhood, Avery Ames, is immediately suspected. Priscilla's wealthy father asks for NYPD Detective Kelly Moore to travel to London to assist the UK police. When the killer strikes again, Kelly and DCI Jack Dunne must use all their wits trying to catch a ruthless killer who always seems to be one step ahead. Lots of twists, suspects and red herrings in this well written thriller. I'm glad the author has foreshadowed that we will see more of Kelly Moore in the future. 4.5★
With thanks to the author for a digital copy of the book to read
June 5, 2018
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4.75/5 Stars
Compelling and suspenseful, with a wonderful hook, This Dark Place is the very strong debut of American crime novelist Claire Kittridge and independent publisher, Delicate Prey. Fans of Angela Marsons and Robert Bryndza need to put this author on their must read lists, stat!
For years, there has been an attraction to the intersection between England and the United States in popular culture. In recent decades, there was the movie "Notting Hill", in which an American, superstar actress (portrayed by an American, superstar actress) pops into the London shop of a charming, unassuming, English bookseller. The fascination only grew when another American actress portrayed (controversially, perhaps) the beloved British character Bridget Jones, and "sang" along with "All By Myself" in her London flat, while American show Frasier played on mute on the telly. And of course, the entire world witnessed the merging of these two cultures with the recent royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
As a lover of both UK crime fiction and New York City (a visit to the UK is on my bucket list), imagine my delight to learn of the inspired premise of This Dark Place: in short, the wealthy and connected father of a New Yorker who had been studying in London, hires a tough, female, New York homicide detective to travel to London, and to work with the London Metropolitan Police to investigate his daughter's death. What follows is a confidently-written, "chilling British thriller with an American twist". Among the many qualities to love are an endearing, diverse cast of characters, and their relationships, that you will want to revisit and learn more about in future series installments, a truly creepy villain, the identity of whom will keep you glued to the pages to discover, a dark and gritty plot with numerous red herrings, an ending that leaves open the possibility that Detective Kelly Moore might remain in England for yet another case, and a final section that was so gripping it had me holding my breath, and had my heart actually racing.
Author Claire Kittridge is the real deal - if this is only her debut novel, I feel quite confident that she has a bright crime writing future ahead!
4.75/5 Stars
Compelling and suspenseful, with a wonderful hook, This Dark Place is the very strong debut of American crime novelist Claire Kittridge and independent publisher, Delicate Prey. Fans of Angela Marsons and Robert Bryndza need to put this author on their must read lists, stat!
For years, there has been an attraction to the intersection between England and the United States in popular culture. In recent decades, there was the movie "Notting Hill", in which an American, superstar actress (portrayed by an American, superstar actress) pops into the London shop of a charming, unassuming, English bookseller. The fascination only grew when another American actress portrayed (controversially, perhaps) the beloved British character Bridget Jones, and "sang" along with "All By Myself" in her London flat, while American show Frasier played on mute on the telly. And of course, the entire world witnessed the merging of these two cultures with the recent royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
As a lover of both UK crime fiction and New York City (a visit to the UK is on my bucket list), imagine my delight to learn of the inspired premise of This Dark Place: in short, the wealthy and connected father of a New Yorker who had been studying in London, hires a tough, female, New York homicide detective to travel to London, and to work with the London Metropolitan Police to investigate his daughter's death. What follows is a confidently-written, "chilling British thriller with an American twist". Among the many qualities to love are an endearing, diverse cast of characters, and their relationships, that you will want to revisit and learn more about in future series installments, a truly creepy villain, the identity of whom will keep you glued to the pages to discover, a dark and gritty plot with numerous red herrings, an ending that leaves open the possibility that Detective Kelly Moore might remain in England for yet another case, and a final section that was so gripping it had me holding my breath, and had my heart actually racing.
Author Claire Kittridge is the real deal - if this is only her debut novel, I feel quite confident that she has a bright crime writing future ahead!
April 26, 2018
I want more Kelly Moore
That was a fantastic book. I loved from page 1, very fast pace, almost read in one sitting. Brilliant characters, not too stereo typed, but believable. Sounds like there is a back story to run throughout the long (?) series. Will the stories be set in different cities, locations as the search goes on?
Can't wait for book 2, hope it's not too far away. Please keep writing.
That was a fantastic book. I loved from page 1, very fast pace, almost read in one sitting. Brilliant characters, not too stereo typed, but believable. Sounds like there is a back story to run throughout the long (?) series. Will the stories be set in different cities, locations as the search goes on?
Can't wait for book 2, hope it's not too far away. Please keep writing.
May 21, 2018
3.5
This Dark Place is a fast-paced, enjoyable thriller and the first in the Detective Kelly Moore series.
The story line was great, but it left me with some questions unanswered and the manner of the first crime committed, was vague.
Overall, this was a good start to a new series and I would definitely read the next one.
Thanks to Alan Cotterell for another good recommendation.
This Dark Place is a fast-paced, enjoyable thriller and the first in the Detective Kelly Moore series.
The story line was great, but it left me with some questions unanswered and the manner of the first crime committed, was vague.
Overall, this was a good start to a new series and I would definitely read the next one.
Thanks to Alan Cotterell for another good recommendation.
April 16, 2018
review to come
What a fantastic book and the start of a great new series featuring Detective Kelly Moore.
When an American student Priscilla Ames is found dead on her couch by her flatmate, the father of the victim - who has money and clout - calls on NYPD detective Kelly Moore to find her killer. Working with the local London police Kelly makes it her mission to see that Priscilla's killer is caught.
I loved the fast paced style of this book. I just had to keep reading it, desperate to know what was going to happen next. Kelly is strong, determined female character that I instantly warmed to - she has a way of getting what she wants and needs.
Thanks to TBC for my copy of this book to read and enjoy. I really really enjoyed this and can't wait for the next book.
What a fantastic book and the start of a great new series featuring Detective Kelly Moore.
When an American student Priscilla Ames is found dead on her couch by her flatmate, the father of the victim - who has money and clout - calls on NYPD detective Kelly Moore to find her killer. Working with the local London police Kelly makes it her mission to see that Priscilla's killer is caught.
I loved the fast paced style of this book. I just had to keep reading it, desperate to know what was going to happen next. Kelly is strong, determined female character that I instantly warmed to - she has a way of getting what she wants and needs.
Thanks to TBC for my copy of this book to read and enjoy. I really really enjoyed this and can't wait for the next book.
April 20, 2018
this dark place by Clare kittridge.
When the brutal death of a young American theater student in London is splashed across headlines worldwide, NYPD Detective Kelly Moore flies across the Atlantic to join a crack team of British investigators on the case.
a very good read. cleverly written. couldn't guess who it was. 5*.
When the brutal death of a young American theater student in London is splashed across headlines worldwide, NYPD Detective Kelly Moore flies across the Atlantic to join a crack team of British investigators on the case.
a very good read. cleverly written. couldn't guess who it was. 5*.
May 7, 2018
This Dark Place is a great debut novel by Claire Kittridge with an intriguing protagonist who I think will be a major selling point for this new series! I loved the meeting of the different police cultures and thought that the idea of bringing over an NYPD police detective to the streets of London to solve a crime was inspired.
When Kelly Moore flies over to London to help with a murder enquiry, she is thrown straight in at the deep end from day one. The murder of Priscilla Ames seems to have its roots in the dark depths of webcam sex scene but how involved is her best friend Avery Moss? Avery becomes the prime suspect but would she have been involved in what happened to her closest friend? Kelly is up against a killer who seems one step ahead of her all the way and things start to get very personal indeed for the feisty American.
I love coming in at the start of a series and this one promises to be right up my street. Kelly is a gutsy heroine, though not without her flaws, and I do love an intriguing mystery in the background too! I’m hoping that we do eventually find out more about Kelly’s sister and what happened when she disappeared all those years ago.
Claire Kittridge writes a good crime thriller and I have to say that she kept me guessing to the very end about who was involved and why. The fast paced plot kept me involved in the action and I cared about the believable and interesting characters she had created. A cracking start to this new series and I hope we don’t have to long to wait until we meet Kelly Moore again.
When Kelly Moore flies over to London to help with a murder enquiry, she is thrown straight in at the deep end from day one. The murder of Priscilla Ames seems to have its roots in the dark depths of webcam sex scene but how involved is her best friend Avery Moss? Avery becomes the prime suspect but would she have been involved in what happened to her closest friend? Kelly is up against a killer who seems one step ahead of her all the way and things start to get very personal indeed for the feisty American.
I love coming in at the start of a series and this one promises to be right up my street. Kelly is a gutsy heroine, though not without her flaws, and I do love an intriguing mystery in the background too! I’m hoping that we do eventually find out more about Kelly’s sister and what happened when she disappeared all those years ago.
Claire Kittridge writes a good crime thriller and I have to say that she kept me guessing to the very end about who was involved and why. The fast paced plot kept me involved in the action and I cared about the believable and interesting characters she had created. A cracking start to this new series and I hope we don’t have to long to wait until we meet Kelly Moore again.
April 15, 2018
American Priscilla Ames, who has been living in London on a student visa, has been found dead with a bullet hole in her head. Was she murdered or did she commit suicide? The father of the victim, who is wealthy and has some power over NYPD sends Detective Kelly Moore from New York to assist with the investigation.
Kelly is gutsy, streetwise cop and can handle herself and she is determined to find out who the killer is, when more bodies turn up. Even when she is investigating a link to these crimes, she nearly becomes a victim herself.
I really enjoyed this debut novel from Claire Kittridge. It was well paced, expertly written and with lots of twists and turns that kept my attention throughout. I thought the characters where well developed. I have a good feeling about this series and I am excited to see how the series turns out.
I would like to thank Claire Kittridge for an ARC of The Dark Place.
Kelly is gutsy, streetwise cop and can handle herself and she is determined to find out who the killer is, when more bodies turn up. Even when she is investigating a link to these crimes, she nearly becomes a victim herself.
I really enjoyed this debut novel from Claire Kittridge. It was well paced, expertly written and with lots of twists and turns that kept my attention throughout. I thought the characters where well developed. I have a good feeling about this series and I am excited to see how the series turns out.
I would like to thank Claire Kittridge for an ARC of The Dark Place.
April 27, 2018
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I thought that this book was excellent - what a start to a new series!!
This book gripped me completely, we are thrown straight in to the story and it keeps a brilliant pace until the end. There are twists and turns and I loved the characters - they were spot on for the story and the writing style was great - completely suited to this genre and I wholeheartedly enjoyed the lot!!
Definitely five stars from me, very highly recommended and really looking forward to the next book!!
I thought that this book was excellent - what a start to a new series!!
This book gripped me completely, we are thrown straight in to the story and it keeps a brilliant pace until the end. There are twists and turns and I loved the characters - they were spot on for the story and the writing style was great - completely suited to this genre and I wholeheartedly enjoyed the lot!!
Definitely five stars from me, very highly recommended and really looking forward to the next book!!
May 8, 2018
Priscilla Ames seems to have it all. She’s beautiful, she has a rich daddy and is studying in London. But then she’s found dead by her roommate, Avery. All the signs seem to point to a suicide but Priscilla’s father refuses to accept this. On his insistence, NYPD detective Kelly Moore travels to London to help out in the investigation. An investigation that’s hampered by lack of evidence, a department leak and a supervisor who wants this case off her desk as soon as possible. Soon it transpires though, that Priscilla’s death is far more dark and disturbing than anyone could have guessed.
I must admit it took me a little while to get into this first instalment of the Detective Moore series. I didn’t particularly like the characters, except for a man called JB who works at the police station reception desk. On top of that, I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of influence Priscilla’s father, Peter, could possibly have that he was able to pull the strings as he did. Money talks, I suppose, but I would have preferred a bit more of an explanation about that.
The investigation into Priscilla’s death pulled me in though. With a bunch of wanna-be student actors and directors all over the place, it’s impossible to figure out who’s telling the truth or who’s putting on an act. Even when I thought I figured out what was going on, I couldn’t quite see how the pieces of the puzzle fit together. The “bad guy” is immensely creepy, always a step ahead and apparently has some kind of pull over other people.
There’s an intriguing background story to Kelly Moore that will hopefully be explored further as the series goes along. As it is, that particular event is used against her by someone in this story and may just lead her into danger. I particularly enjoyed the differences between detectives in America and England. Kelly, for instance, often automatically reaches for her sidearm, which she’s not carrying as that’s not done in England.
This series has a lot of potential and promise, which is exactly what you look for in a first instalment. Will Kelly remain in London, or will she go back home and work cases there? If she stays in London, what will her position be? And will she ever have closure? This gripping and well-paced first book in the series sets the tone perfectly for wherever Claire Kittridge decides to take Kelly Moore next.
I must admit it took me a little while to get into this first instalment of the Detective Moore series. I didn’t particularly like the characters, except for a man called JB who works at the police station reception desk. On top of that, I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of influence Priscilla’s father, Peter, could possibly have that he was able to pull the strings as he did. Money talks, I suppose, but I would have preferred a bit more of an explanation about that.
The investigation into Priscilla’s death pulled me in though. With a bunch of wanna-be student actors and directors all over the place, it’s impossible to figure out who’s telling the truth or who’s putting on an act. Even when I thought I figured out what was going on, I couldn’t quite see how the pieces of the puzzle fit together. The “bad guy” is immensely creepy, always a step ahead and apparently has some kind of pull over other people.
There’s an intriguing background story to Kelly Moore that will hopefully be explored further as the series goes along. As it is, that particular event is used against her by someone in this story and may just lead her into danger. I particularly enjoyed the differences between detectives in America and England. Kelly, for instance, often automatically reaches for her sidearm, which she’s not carrying as that’s not done in England.
This series has a lot of potential and promise, which is exactly what you look for in a first instalment. Will Kelly remain in London, or will she go back home and work cases there? If she stays in London, what will her position be? And will she ever have closure? This gripping and well-paced first book in the series sets the tone perfectly for wherever Claire Kittridge decides to take Kelly Moore next.
April 20, 2018
This would be my worst nightmare, one of my children dying. But even more devastating would be not knowing if my child had killed herself, or been murdered. The second option is one Priscilla’s father couldn’t leave to chance, that was to find the killer, if there was one. From the outside Priscilla had everything that she could ever possibly want or need. Her father had even put her best friend through an exclusive private school, then university and onto a top-notch acting school in London, so they could be together. But now she was dead and her dad was in the position to make sure he found out why.
Wow this is pretty intense, real hard-hitting what the hell happened to this young woman stuff that ended her life. I just felt everything that Peter Ames, her father, felt and I just knew that this man would never mend from losing his daughter no matter what he found out. He was struggling also with the thought that Avery, the girl he had treated like a daughter, could be involved. What did she really know about this tragedy? Now he had connections, legal ones in the NYPD, that he could wrangle onto the investigation in London and so Detective Kelly Moore is promptly despatched to the UK.
Kelly Moore is an unpredictable entity with issues from her past that haven’t been resolved but she has a keen mind to pick up on the little things that can easily be passed by. I just knew that I was going to love this lady that wasn’t frightened to get her sleeves rolled up and get really involved, though there was a point I thought this was going to end as a stand alone read! There are some hairy moments in this book that come with very regular bursts of hide behind the sofa moments, as the body count increases and the teams ‘must speak to’ list of people rapidly vanishes. This chameleon of a killer is one that blends well to get an upper hand and keep one step ahead.
This is a super debut novel that places Detective Kelly Moore in the perfect position for a promising cracking series.
Wow this is pretty intense, real hard-hitting what the hell happened to this young woman stuff that ended her life. I just felt everything that Peter Ames, her father, felt and I just knew that this man would never mend from losing his daughter no matter what he found out. He was struggling also with the thought that Avery, the girl he had treated like a daughter, could be involved. What did she really know about this tragedy? Now he had connections, legal ones in the NYPD, that he could wrangle onto the investigation in London and so Detective Kelly Moore is promptly despatched to the UK.
Kelly Moore is an unpredictable entity with issues from her past that haven’t been resolved but she has a keen mind to pick up on the little things that can easily be passed by. I just knew that I was going to love this lady that wasn’t frightened to get her sleeves rolled up and get really involved, though there was a point I thought this was going to end as a stand alone read! There are some hairy moments in this book that come with very regular bursts of hide behind the sofa moments, as the body count increases and the teams ‘must speak to’ list of people rapidly vanishes. This chameleon of a killer is one that blends well to get an upper hand and keep one step ahead.
This is a super debut novel that places Detective Kelly Moore in the perfect position for a promising cracking series.
April 19, 2018
I think it’s fair to say that Detective Kelly Moore is often distracted by her past, to the point of endangering herself and others. The disappearance of her sister Cass, and her obsession with the unsolved crime, is detrimental to her decision making process. No matter what, the mystery of Cass comes first.
In this book Moore makes her way to Britain to help solve the strange death of a young woman. The daughter of Peter Ames. She wanders into a quagmire of sexual deviance, manipulation and lies. What appears to be a homicide turns out to be so much more.
Simultaneously someone is taunting Moore with insinuations about her sister. Tempting her with revelations and a possible solution to her inner torture. Unfortunately she lets this person get between the case she is trying to solve, and also puts her in mortal danger.
Moore tends to act without thinking, jump into situations without the appropriate back-up or inform anyone when she is lured into traps by the occasional psycho or two. Her streetwise New York attitude and training is a complete contradiction to the London Met Police working atmosphere she is thrown into.
Kittridge writes a compelling crime story and incorporates 21st century technology with strong memorable characters. The strength of her story is the seamless flow and the sense of ease with which it is written. The focus on intrigue and procedure, as opposed to a constant stream of action, violence and gore, absolutely works in her favour.
She has created the kind of main character the reader can respect, expect the unexpected from, and yet also in equal measures feel empathy with. I am sure this isn’t the last we will hear and read of both Detective Kelly Moore and Claire Kittridge.
*I received a copy of this book courtesy of the publisher.*
In this book Moore makes her way to Britain to help solve the strange death of a young woman. The daughter of Peter Ames. She wanders into a quagmire of sexual deviance, manipulation and lies. What appears to be a homicide turns out to be so much more.
Simultaneously someone is taunting Moore with insinuations about her sister. Tempting her with revelations and a possible solution to her inner torture. Unfortunately she lets this person get between the case she is trying to solve, and also puts her in mortal danger.
Moore tends to act without thinking, jump into situations without the appropriate back-up or inform anyone when she is lured into traps by the occasional psycho or two. Her streetwise New York attitude and training is a complete contradiction to the London Met Police working atmosphere she is thrown into.
Kittridge writes a compelling crime story and incorporates 21st century technology with strong memorable characters. The strength of her story is the seamless flow and the sense of ease with which it is written. The focus on intrigue and procedure, as opposed to a constant stream of action, violence and gore, absolutely works in her favour.
She has created the kind of main character the reader can respect, expect the unexpected from, and yet also in equal measures feel empathy with. I am sure this isn’t the last we will hear and read of both Detective Kelly Moore and Claire Kittridge.
*I received a copy of this book courtesy of the publisher.*
May 26, 2018
This Dark Place was so freaking good! I love a good mystery every now and then and this one was it! Detective Kelly Moore was instantly likable and I can't wait to dive into the second book!
Detective Kelly Moore is a tough cop who will try anything and everything in her power to stop the bad guys. When she gets hired to find out what happened to Mr. Ames daughter, Priscilla Ames, she doesn't know what she just accepted. Priscilla died at 19 years old due to a gun shot wound to the head. There were no witnesses but her best friend and roommate, Avery Moss, found her and called 911.
Kelly works with the London Metropolitan Police to try and track down the killer. However, this said killer seems to know what her next five moves are before she even does. This was definitely a cat and mouse game that kept me on my toes. Heck, I just wanted Kelly to prove this killer wrong and catch them.
This book definitely kept shoving different suspects my way and I was honestly confused. I'm so bad at guessing who is the bad guy or killer in books so I really liked being out of the loop the entire time. I also really enjoyed Kelly and Jack working together trying to outsmart the "killer" before the body count gets way too freaking high.
Overall, this book was amazing. I seriously can't wait to dive into the next book. I will be tapping my fingers in anticipation for it.
Detective Kelly Moore is a tough cop who will try anything and everything in her power to stop the bad guys. When she gets hired to find out what happened to Mr. Ames daughter, Priscilla Ames, she doesn't know what she just accepted. Priscilla died at 19 years old due to a gun shot wound to the head. There were no witnesses but her best friend and roommate, Avery Moss, found her and called 911.
Kelly works with the London Metropolitan Police to try and track down the killer. However, this said killer seems to know what her next five moves are before she even does. This was definitely a cat and mouse game that kept me on my toes. Heck, I just wanted Kelly to prove this killer wrong and catch them.
This book definitely kept shoving different suspects my way and I was honestly confused. I'm so bad at guessing who is the bad guy or killer in books so I really liked being out of the loop the entire time. I also really enjoyed Kelly and Jack working together trying to outsmart the "killer" before the body count gets way too freaking high.
Overall, this book was amazing. I seriously can't wait to dive into the next book. I will be tapping my fingers in anticipation for it.
April 28, 2018
I always love the first book in a new series and getting to know a new character, especially one as unpredictable as Kelly. NYPD detective Kelly Moore has been sent to London to investigate the death of an American student, nineteen-year old Priscilla Ames. The victim’s father is rich, powerful and influential, and insists that Kelly is involved with the investigation. Superintendent Janet Frame is not keen for her involvement, but Kelly gets on well with the rest of the team. As the case builds up so does the body count and all the while Kelly is reminded of her sister who went missing in England. Could there be a connection?
This Dark Place was so flawless its hard to believe it was a debut novel. Cross between police procedural and psychological thriller, the suspense is just bursting from the seams. Breathtakingly intense, This Dark Place sunk it’s claws into me within the first couple of pages and refused to let go, so much so I almost managed to finish the book in one sitting. Intense and suspenseful, the story is an intricately woven web of lies and deceit. Kittridge skilfully has several threads of sub-plot running simultaneously throughout the main story before being neatly tied up at the end. The pace was kept flowing at top speed leaving the reader sitting on the edge of their seat.
A myriad of surrounding cast were great characters, multi-dimensional and full of depth. I kept changing my mind over who to trust and who not to as the author led me along numerous wrong turns! Cleverly plotted and written well the words just seemed to flow from page to page and I found myself immersed in Kelly’s life.
This Dark Place is a fantastic debut novel and one hell of a start to a new series.
This Dark Place was so flawless its hard to believe it was a debut novel. Cross between police procedural and psychological thriller, the suspense is just bursting from the seams. Breathtakingly intense, This Dark Place sunk it’s claws into me within the first couple of pages and refused to let go, so much so I almost managed to finish the book in one sitting. Intense and suspenseful, the story is an intricately woven web of lies and deceit. Kittridge skilfully has several threads of sub-plot running simultaneously throughout the main story before being neatly tied up at the end. The pace was kept flowing at top speed leaving the reader sitting on the edge of their seat.
A myriad of surrounding cast were great characters, multi-dimensional and full of depth. I kept changing my mind over who to trust and who not to as the author led me along numerous wrong turns! Cleverly plotted and written well the words just seemed to flow from page to page and I found myself immersed in Kelly’s life.
This Dark Place is a fantastic debut novel and one hell of a start to a new series.
April 19, 2018
This is the authors debut title and the first in a series featuring Kelly Moore - a feisty NYPD detective. A dark case for her to help solve which raced along quite nicely. We get glimpses of her history throughout the book which leaves us wanting to know more. Look forward to reading more by this author. Thank you to TBC and to the author for the chance to read this title in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2018
Bravo!
Kept my interest and my wanting to read some more! I can't wait to read more of detective Kelly Moore working new cases!
Kept my interest and my wanting to read some more! I can't wait to read more of detective Kelly Moore working new cases!
May 7, 2018
This Dark Place is a fast-paced roller-coaster of a read that I couldn’t put down. Right from the first page I was gripped to the book and I needed to know what had happened to Priscilla.
Priscilla seemed to have everything – studying abroad in London with her best friend by her side, who would want to kill her? Did she commit suicide? Priscilla’s father gets Detective Kelly Moore from the NYPD to assist the London Met Police and what she uncovers just complicates things more.
I loved the character of Kelly, she’s battling the disappearance of her sister in England versus trying to do a good job for the sake of Priscilla and her father. Kelly dived straight into the investigation and I loved her building up relationships with other members of the London police team. The combination of the British and American made it a different read to other crime books out there.
Claire’s writing was brilliant, very cleverly written, it kept me gripped and the short chapters made the book fly by. I got sucked into the plot line and as the bodies were piling up, I was getting tenser trying to figure out who was behind all of the crimes. I love police procedural books and this one was a great read, I loved the investigation side of the book.
There are lots of twists and turns throughout the book to keep you hooked as well as brilliant characters and an evil killer on the loose. It’s an excellent start to the series and I can’t to read more about Kelly in future books.
Priscilla seemed to have everything – studying abroad in London with her best friend by her side, who would want to kill her? Did she commit suicide? Priscilla’s father gets Detective Kelly Moore from the NYPD to assist the London Met Police and what she uncovers just complicates things more.
I loved the character of Kelly, she’s battling the disappearance of her sister in England versus trying to do a good job for the sake of Priscilla and her father. Kelly dived straight into the investigation and I loved her building up relationships with other members of the London police team. The combination of the British and American made it a different read to other crime books out there.
Claire’s writing was brilliant, very cleverly written, it kept me gripped and the short chapters made the book fly by. I got sucked into the plot line and as the bodies were piling up, I was getting tenser trying to figure out who was behind all of the crimes. I love police procedural books and this one was a great read, I loved the investigation side of the book.
There are lots of twists and turns throughout the book to keep you hooked as well as brilliant characters and an evil killer on the loose. It’s an excellent start to the series and I can’t to read more about Kelly in future books.
April 23, 2018
Kelly Moore is a New York detective who is parachuted into an investigation by the Metropolitan police into the suspicious death of a young American student, Priscilla Ames. The victim's father is rich, powerful and influential, and insists that Kelly is involved with the investigation. Superintendent Janet Frame is not keen for her involvement, but Kelly gets on well with the rest of the team.
Following Priscilla's suspicious death, there are soon more bodies, as Kelly and her British pals race to find the connection that will lead them to the perpetrator.
If I hadn't known this was a debut novel, I would never have guessed. It doesn't feel like one. It's well written, well paced and the characters are all well defined. I particularly liked Kelly - she's efficient, tough but fair, and good at her job. But she has ghosts - her own link to the UK - and this features strongly in the book.
I thought it was a great idea - a UK based crime and team but featuring an American cop, and victim. It would appear that this book is the start of a series and I am delighted. I am very much looking forward to reading more by this author. Recommended.
Following Priscilla's suspicious death, there are soon more bodies, as Kelly and her British pals race to find the connection that will lead them to the perpetrator.
If I hadn't known this was a debut novel, I would never have guessed. It doesn't feel like one. It's well written, well paced and the characters are all well defined. I particularly liked Kelly - she's efficient, tough but fair, and good at her job. But she has ghosts - her own link to the UK - and this features strongly in the book.
I thought it was a great idea - a UK based crime and team but featuring an American cop, and victim. It would appear that this book is the start of a series and I am delighted. I am very much looking forward to reading more by this author. Recommended.
April 17, 2018
Avery Moss and Priscilla Amos had been best friends forever. Avery remembered the day they met it was her first day at St. Agatha’s elementary in Brooklyn, Avery was nine years old. She was there on a special scholarship for needy neighbourhood kids, and everything looked to her as if she were in a dream. “When one of boys had stepped up to Priscilla in the playground, called her Prissy Missy and pushed her arm, it only took an instant for Avery’s fist to connect with his nose”. They hadn’t even known each other’s names yet, but from that day on, they were inseparable. And when Avery’s scholarship ran out, Priscilla’s father Peter had stepped in, sponsoring her studies, making sure she had what she needed. Now Avery was standing in a room while Priscilla lay dead on a designer sofa in a London apartment. A hole in her head and a thick dark spot on the fabric growing wider, darker, as she stood watching.
Peter Amos was a man with influence he had insisted and went to the top to ensure NYPD detective Kelly Moore was on the case, he knew Kelly wouldn’t let things lie she would dig deep and find out the truth. She was to join Superintendent Janet Frame—Detective Chief Inspector and Jack Dunne, who is Senior Investigating Officer.
When they get to the crime scene everything points to Avery shooting her best friend but Peter doesn’t believe that the girls were like sisters the other option was suicide. Or was there a third option.
I really enjoyed this book read it in a day there’s so much going on my mind was jumping all over the place so many twists and turns. I’m glad there will be more to follow. Definitely recommend it.
Peter Amos was a man with influence he had insisted and went to the top to ensure NYPD detective Kelly Moore was on the case, he knew Kelly wouldn’t let things lie she would dig deep and find out the truth. She was to join Superintendent Janet Frame—Detective Chief Inspector and Jack Dunne, who is Senior Investigating Officer.
When they get to the crime scene everything points to Avery shooting her best friend but Peter doesn’t believe that the girls were like sisters the other option was suicide. Or was there a third option.
I really enjoyed this book read it in a day there’s so much going on my mind was jumping all over the place so many twists and turns. I’m glad there will be more to follow. Definitely recommend it.
April 17, 2018
An enormously strong debut novel in the crime thriller genre. The book is very nicely pitched with a little more unpleasantness and psychological thriller style suspense than your average cozy mystery but rarely brutal, visceral or gory in its descriptions. The strong female lead develops nicely through the book and there are aspects of her back-story that are intriguing and entice the reader to want to find out more about her and see how that larger story develops throughout the series.
The case that is the subject of this story is original, troubling and thought-provoking with plenty of twists and turns and a strong cast of supporting characters. The author proved very adept at leading me to be suspicious of many different characters without making them obviously or melodramatically sinister. I raced through the book in under 24 hours and look forward to following further adventures of Kelly Moore in the future.
The case that is the subject of this story is original, troubling and thought-provoking with plenty of twists and turns and a strong cast of supporting characters. The author proved very adept at leading me to be suspicious of many different characters without making them obviously or melodramatically sinister. I raced through the book in under 24 hours and look forward to following further adventures of Kelly Moore in the future.
April 13, 2018
I'm always excited to see what a new author can offer and I got a real feel for this book really early on...I really hope that this is the first of many books featuring detective Kelly moore. she was a real kick ass yet deep character and I look forward to seeing how she develops! the story itself was fast paced, well thought out and engrossing. it's a delight to find a new exciting author...look forward to the next one
April 18, 2018
A solid 4.5 stars read! I always love getting to know a new character. I certainly wasn’t disappointed with New York Detective Kelly Moore. The glimpses in to Kelly’s history only add to the depth of the character. Setting the main plot in London and seeing how she coped in a new place and with new colleagues was a real plus. The plot flew well and it was a really deep and dark side to life that was revealed. I really enjoyed reading this book and I look forward to reading more from this author
April 17, 2018
NYPD Detective Kelly Moore is an engaging character and I enjoyed her involvement with Met police as they follow a trail of the bodies of young drama students. The story was well paced and kept me interested to the end. I did guess a short while before the ending who the murderer was but that did not detract from the story at all. I particularly liked the feeling of London and it's various districts. I thank Claire Kittredge and The Book Club (TBC) for the ARC I received to review.
April 3, 2018
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this and so glad I did.
NYPD detective Kelly Moore has been sent to London to investigate the death of an American student. As the case builds up so does the body count. A game of cat and mouse ensues and keeps you guessing until the end. All the while Kelly is reminded of her sister who went missing in England. Could there be a connection?
Although set in London there were a lot of American terms which were ok when coming from Kelly but sounded odd when related to everyone else. Just my preference but that's why it lost a star.
BUT this did not put off a good story and I shall be looking forward to meeting up with Detective Kelly again in her next outing.
NYPD detective Kelly Moore has been sent to London to investigate the death of an American student. As the case builds up so does the body count. A game of cat and mouse ensues and keeps you guessing until the end. All the while Kelly is reminded of her sister who went missing in England. Could there be a connection?
Although set in London there were a lot of American terms which were ok when coming from Kelly but sounded odd when related to everyone else. Just my preference but that's why it lost a star.
BUT this did not put off a good story and I shall be looking forward to meeting up with Detective Kelly again in her next outing.
April 2, 2018
Really enjoyed this book the first one introducing Detective Kelly Moore, she's a detective in New York but comes to London to help solve the murder of an American Student. The more they investigate the more deaths occur. I was engrossed from start to finish. Very well written bringing the characters to life and I'm looking forward to more of Kelly
May 16, 2018
This Dark Place by Claire Kittridge is her debut first novel and wow what a debut.
We are introduced to NYPD Detective Kelly Moore who has been sent to London to assist in the investigation into the death of an American student Priscilla Ames.
We follow the investigation by the Met Police and NYPD Detective Kelly Moore and learn how Kelly ticks and what motivates her.
As the investigation progresses more murders start to occur, what’s the connection and who is behind them?
Just when I thought I knew where it was going and had sussed things out, I was proved to be completely wrong.
I found the story to be riveting and held my attention long after I had finished the book.
I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
We are introduced to NYPD Detective Kelly Moore who has been sent to London to assist in the investigation into the death of an American student Priscilla Ames.
We follow the investigation by the Met Police and NYPD Detective Kelly Moore and learn how Kelly ticks and what motivates her.
As the investigation progresses more murders start to occur, what’s the connection and who is behind them?
Just when I thought I knew where it was going and had sussed things out, I was proved to be completely wrong.
I found the story to be riveting and held my attention long after I had finished the book.
I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
July 1, 2018
An NYPD cop finds herself in London in this debut novel where risk is around every corner, manipulation, fear and revelations grip the reader and where loss, secrets/lies along with a haunting past drag the reader into the search for justice.
Well OMFG! 😱 Claire Kittridge certainly held nothing back in this fabulous debut! The prologue had me scratching my head, wondering what in the world was going on – I must read more!! Full of suspense, this police procedural dabbled on the psychological edge with a plot that I found intriguing and unsettling. I really enjoyed the mix of UK and US policing with a fantastic cast of characters and a few red herrings that kept me guessing throughout! This is certainly a very promising start to a new series and I am super keen to see where the author takes us next!
Detective Kelly Moore is an NYPD cop with a past that not only haunts her, but brings her back to the place where it started. Talk about having to face your fears head on! There is an interesting backstory here and although we know her sister is missing, we don’t know what happened, only that it seems everyone presumes the sister is dead … many years have passed but no body! Hmmmmmm 🤔🕵️♀️ I most definitely want to know more! I instantly liked this character – she is a risk-taker, determined, a wee bit fiesty but also very clever. I want more of Moore!!
Another character I was immediately drawn to was DI Samantha Joshi – LOVED her! She befriends Moore and their rapport instantly leaps off the pages. Another one who does not shy away from taking a risk now and again, I think she is, however a little less obvious in her methods.
For some reason, I also really liked Brickmat – a reporter who always left me wondering what his real motives were. He certainly knows a lot and there were times that he made my skin crawl – for me, he is one of those likeable unlikeable characters 🤣 Confusing, I know! But it’s how I feel! 😜
So would I recommend this read? Oh hell-to-the-yeah I would! Dark, edgy and absolutely filled with page-turning suspense, I can’t wait to see how this series develops!
All my reviews can be found on: www.crimebookjunkie.co.uk
Well OMFG! 😱 Claire Kittridge certainly held nothing back in this fabulous debut! The prologue had me scratching my head, wondering what in the world was going on – I must read more!! Full of suspense, this police procedural dabbled on the psychological edge with a plot that I found intriguing and unsettling. I really enjoyed the mix of UK and US policing with a fantastic cast of characters and a few red herrings that kept me guessing throughout! This is certainly a very promising start to a new series and I am super keen to see where the author takes us next!
Detective Kelly Moore is an NYPD cop with a past that not only haunts her, but brings her back to the place where it started. Talk about having to face your fears head on! There is an interesting backstory here and although we know her sister is missing, we don’t know what happened, only that it seems everyone presumes the sister is dead … many years have passed but no body! Hmmmmmm 🤔🕵️♀️ I most definitely want to know more! I instantly liked this character – she is a risk-taker, determined, a wee bit fiesty but also very clever. I want more of Moore!!
Another character I was immediately drawn to was DI Samantha Joshi – LOVED her! She befriends Moore and their rapport instantly leaps off the pages. Another one who does not shy away from taking a risk now and again, I think she is, however a little less obvious in her methods.
For some reason, I also really liked Brickmat – a reporter who always left me wondering what his real motives were. He certainly knows a lot and there were times that he made my skin crawl – for me, he is one of those likeable unlikeable characters 🤣 Confusing, I know! But it’s how I feel! 😜
So would I recommend this read? Oh hell-to-the-yeah I would! Dark, edgy and absolutely filled with page-turning suspense, I can’t wait to see how this series develops!
All my reviews can be found on: www.crimebookjunkie.co.uk
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