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The Body on the Moor
A totally gripping mystery thriller inspired by a true story: an innocent young girl holds the key to unlocking a long-buried crime. Perfect for fans of Gregg Olsen, Catherine Ryan Howard and I’ll Be Gone in the Dark. Pulse-pounding, heart-wrenching and unforgettable.
Manchester, England 1965: Little Kathy Openshaw is waiting in the car with only her toy doll for company. Whilst her mother Connie visits close friends Myra and Ian, Kathy gazes out at the surrounding moorland and dreams of a happier life.
But when Connie returns to the car, Kathy has vanished. Instantly she thinks of the news reports of the children who have gone missing from the area. Parents everywhere are worried sick. Connie is struck with terror: what kind of mother leaves their child alone when a kidnapper is on the loose?
Black Fell Farm, Saddleworth Moor: no one has visited Ronald’s farm in decades. But when a young couple start acting suspiciously on his land and a mysterious visitor arrives on his doorstep, Ronald feels instantly threatened. He doesn’t want any unwanted attention directed towards his farm.
For on the wild and desolate moorland, Ronald has buried his own dark crime for years and if his secret is ever exposed, it will be more than just his life at stake…
Completely addictive and inspired by the true crime story of the Moors murders, this stunning mystery will keep you reading long into the night.
Manchester, England 1965: Little Kathy Openshaw is waiting in the car with only her toy doll for company. Whilst her mother Connie visits close friends Myra and Ian, Kathy gazes out at the surrounding moorland and dreams of a happier life.
But when Connie returns to the car, Kathy has vanished. Instantly she thinks of the news reports of the children who have gone missing from the area. Parents everywhere are worried sick. Connie is struck with terror: what kind of mother leaves their child alone when a kidnapper is on the loose?
Black Fell Farm, Saddleworth Moor: no one has visited Ronald’s farm in decades. But when a young couple start acting suspiciously on his land and a mysterious visitor arrives on his doorstep, Ronald feels instantly threatened. He doesn’t want any unwanted attention directed towards his farm.
For on the wild and desolate moorland, Ronald has buried his own dark crime for years and if his secret is ever exposed, it will be more than just his life at stake…
Completely addictive and inspired by the true crime story of the Moors murders, this stunning mystery will keep you reading long into the night.
Audiobook
First published February 24, 2022
241 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Griffiths
10 books115 followersPRAISE FOR REBECCA GRIFFITHS:
'Twisty, atmospheric and elegantly written, it has echoes of Daphne du Maurier with its shivering paranoia, fear and dread.' The Daily Mail
'An increasingly tense narrative with stylish writing that keeps her a cut above most of her rivals' The Guardian
‘A chilling thriller . . . brilliantly written.’ The Sun
'Truly chilling.' Woman
‘There is something of the tenterhooks tension of a Daphne du Maurier to Rebecca Griffith’s dreamy and disturbing domestic thriller . . . Griffiths has a superb handle on her characters and their twisting motivations, spinning out a story of memory and long-term consequence that grips from cover to cover.’ Waterstones
'Tense, intriguing, with a satisfying twist.' The Western Mail
'Eerie and tense.' The Morning Star
'Gripping.' Hello
'Creepy.' Heat
'Twisty, atmospheric and elegantly written, it has echoes of Daphne du Maurier with its shivering paranoia, fear and dread.' The Daily Mail
'An increasingly tense narrative with stylish writing that keeps her a cut above most of her rivals' The Guardian
‘A chilling thriller . . . brilliantly written.’ The Sun
'Truly chilling.' Woman
‘There is something of the tenterhooks tension of a Daphne du Maurier to Rebecca Griffith’s dreamy and disturbing domestic thriller . . . Griffiths has a superb handle on her characters and their twisting motivations, spinning out a story of memory and long-term consequence that grips from cover to cover.’ Waterstones
'Tense, intriguing, with a satisfying twist.' The Western Mail
'Eerie and tense.' The Morning Star
'Gripping.' Hello
'Creepy.' Heat
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December 23, 2022
The Body on the Moor by Rebecca Griffiths
Narrated by Sarah Durham, Richard Burnip
I'd already been familiar with the Moor Murders, and real life killers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley, when I began this audiobook. Keeping intact much of the truth about Ian and Myra, the author builds a fictionalized world around them, The fiction relies on the facts but gives words and motivation to real and fictional people. I remember wondering how much, if anything, the real life owner of the moor land where Brady and Hindley hung out, took pictures, and buried bodies, might know about these two.
Ronald Cappleman, of Black Fell Farm on Saddleworth Moor, has secrets of his own. So when he notices this couple up to no good he wants them off his property but backs off when they pull a gun on him. He can't do anything about them though because his secrets could ruin his and his brother's lives. He also has more to think about then just these two troublemakers because his brother has adopted a stray and he can't convince his brother to give her up.
Along with Ronald's point of view, we have that of Connie, a woman who had her daughter, Kathy, when she was much too young to be a mother. Now Connie is feeling the deepest guilt for complaining about how little Kathy has ruined her life, keeping her from getting to have fun with her friends. While Connie and her boyfriend, Fred, spent hours in a bar, with Kathy sitting alone in their car, Kathy disappeared. Now Kathy's name is being mentioned along with the names of the missing children of the area and Connie is almost out of her mind with fear that she may never see Kathy again.
Despite their mistakes and misdeeds, Ronald, Connie, Fred, and many of the others people in this story are shown in a sympathetic light. No one deserved to cross paths with the murderous Brady and Hindley and it's scary that people like them exist to this day. The dual narrators did a very good job with the audio version of the book, helping each character to seem distinct from the others.
TW: child and animal abuse
Pub
: February 24, 2022
Thank you to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this ARC.
Narrated by Sarah Durham, Richard Burnip
I'd already been familiar with the Moor Murders, and real life killers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley, when I began this audiobook. Keeping intact much of the truth about Ian and Myra, the author builds a fictionalized world around them, The fiction relies on the facts but gives words and motivation to real and fictional people. I remember wondering how much, if anything, the real life owner of the moor land where Brady and Hindley hung out, took pictures, and buried bodies, might know about these two.
Ronald Cappleman, of Black Fell Farm on Saddleworth Moor, has secrets of his own. So when he notices this couple up to no good he wants them off his property but backs off when they pull a gun on him. He can't do anything about them though because his secrets could ruin his and his brother's lives. He also has more to think about then just these two troublemakers because his brother has adopted a stray and he can't convince his brother to give her up.
Along with Ronald's point of view, we have that of Connie, a woman who had her daughter, Kathy, when she was much too young to be a mother. Now Connie is feeling the deepest guilt for complaining about how little Kathy has ruined her life, keeping her from getting to have fun with her friends. While Connie and her boyfriend, Fred, spent hours in a bar, with Kathy sitting alone in their car, Kathy disappeared. Now Kathy's name is being mentioned along with the names of the missing children of the area and Connie is almost out of her mind with fear that she may never see Kathy again.
Despite their mistakes and misdeeds, Ronald, Connie, Fred, and many of the others people in this story are shown in a sympathetic light. No one deserved to cross paths with the murderous Brady and Hindley and it's scary that people like them exist to this day. The dual narrators did a very good job with the audio version of the book, helping each character to seem distinct from the others.
TW: child and animal abuse
Pub
: February 24, 2022
Thank you to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this ARC.
December 7, 2021
It’s 1965 and this is a story that weaves fact with fiction. Ronald Cappleman at Black Fell Farm on Saddleworth Moor has a very good reason for not wanting the aggressive young couple on his land and it’s not just because of their threats. ‘Hessy’ has bright bottle blonde hair and ‘Neddy’ has a broad Scottish accent, a domineering demeanour and a gun. They are unforgettable. Meanwhile, little Kathy Openshaw waits patiently in the car while her mother Connie and boyfriend Fred meet Connie’s close friend Myra Hindley and her boyfriend Ian Brady in a pub. When Connie eventually returns to the car little Kathy is gone.
First of all, the author does a really good job of weaving the facts of the infamous moors murderers in with the fiction of the story of Kathy and Connie. The unfolding events are seen through Ronald‘s and Connie’s eyes which works really well to give you a balanced view. The portrayal of Brady and Hindley are chilling as are the forbidding moors which to this day send a shiver down my spine every time I cross the M62. Both characters are depicted with clarity and both are equally terrifying as their grim tale, notorious exploits and personalities unfold. Connie’s portrayal is excellent you feel her frantic panic and guilt although it’s very hard to feel much sympathy for her. Ronald is a fascinating character and he has much to contend with and his storyline contrasts sharply with the Brady/Hindley/Connie storyline and I like how his perspective has a slower pace which brings a sharper focus to the other. The story does contain some good twists and I like how there are connections even though those maybe a bit contrived for fiction purposes. The 1960’s values, societal attitudes and judgements not just of Connie are a strong element. The ending is a bit too neatly tied up in a bow, it’s a bit convenient but maybe it’s a good thing to leave you with a sweeter taste in your mouth after an encounter with two of Britain’s most infamous murderers.
Overall, although the subject matter is beyond dark this is a good read and especially strong in its portrayal of Hindley and Brady.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
First of all, the author does a really good job of weaving the facts of the infamous moors murderers in with the fiction of the story of Kathy and Connie. The unfolding events are seen through Ronald‘s and Connie’s eyes which works really well to give you a balanced view. The portrayal of Brady and Hindley are chilling as are the forbidding moors which to this day send a shiver down my spine every time I cross the M62. Both characters are depicted with clarity and both are equally terrifying as their grim tale, notorious exploits and personalities unfold. Connie’s portrayal is excellent you feel her frantic panic and guilt although it’s very hard to feel much sympathy for her. Ronald is a fascinating character and he has much to contend with and his storyline contrasts sharply with the Brady/Hindley/Connie storyline and I like how his perspective has a slower pace which brings a sharper focus to the other. The story does contain some good twists and I like how there are connections even though those maybe a bit contrived for fiction purposes. The 1960’s values, societal attitudes and judgements not just of Connie are a strong element. The ending is a bit too neatly tied up in a bow, it’s a bit convenient but maybe it’s a good thing to leave you with a sweeter taste in your mouth after an encounter with two of Britain’s most infamous murderers.
Overall, although the subject matter is beyond dark this is a good read and especially strong in its portrayal of Hindley and Brady.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 27, 2022
EXCERPT: Connie splashed through puddles, the rain slapping her face. Everywhere was tarmac and concrete, fog and drizzle, but no sign of her child. ‘Have you seen my daughter? Please, you must’ve seen her?’ Connie’s face crumpled, preparing to cry. But there wasn’t time for tears, she told herself, she had to find her child.
ABOUT 'THE HIDDEN CHILD': (Previously titled The Body on the Moor)
Manchester, England, 1965: In an instant Connie’s life has changed. She only left her daughter Kathy alone for a moment but that was enough for her to vanish without a trace. As Connie desperately searches for her, she has to put the news reports of other missing children to the back of her mind. She is determined to find her safe. She will bring her daughter home.
As local farmer Ronald listens to the news, he is shocked by what he hears. He has spent his life away from the spotlight, quietly tending to his farm. But when a young couple begin acting suspiciously on his land, he knows that trouble is about to reach his door.
And then he sees her. A girl in a bright red coat who looks completely lost. Ronald knows he needs to help keep her safe and find her family. But on the wild and desolate farmland, Ronald has buried his own dark secret. Can he risk it coming to light to save her life?
MY THOUGHTS: The Moors murders were carried out by Ian Brady and Myra Hindley between July 1963 and October 1965, in and around Manchester, England. The Missing Child uses this couple as its lynchpin, building tension around Myra Hindley's goddaughter going missing. As an antidote to the darkness of this couple, are the characters of Thomas and Ronald, two local bachelor farmers with a sad history.
It is difficult to feel any sympathy for Connie. Pregnant at fifteen to a married man, she resents and neglects her daughter yet wouldn't let her live with her parents where she would have been well cared for. I didn't like Connie to begin with, and as the story progressed I liked her even less.
The child Kathy is a wonderful character. She knows she is unwanted, that her mother would be much happier without her and takes matters, somewhat unwittingly, into her own hands.
Thomas and Ronald, the bachelor brothers, live an isolated life on their farm. They have a rather strange relationship, but one that works for them. Both have been losers in the love stakes and Ronald in particular still carries a torch for the one who got away.
The characters are well depicted with plenty of depth. While I actively disliked Connie, I was rooting for Thomas and Ronald right the way through. And the evil actually oozes from the characters of Myra and Ian.
Although this is a crime/mystery, it is very much a character driven one. There are no particularly graphic descriptions of violence. References are made to the actual victims of this couple and their families.
Narrators Richard Burnip and Sarah Durham narrated seamlessly and with great expertise.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#TheHiddenChild #NetGalley
I: @bookouture
T: @rebeccagriffit7 @Bookouture
#audiobook #crime #familydrama #historicalfaction #mystery
THE AUTHOR: Rebecca Griffiths grew up in mid-Wales and went on to gain a first class honours degree in English Literature.
After a successful business career in London, Dublin and Scotland, she returned to rural mid-Wales where she now lives with her husband, a prolific artist, four vampiric cats and pet sheep the size of sofas. (DHH Literary Agency)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture Audio via Netgalley for providing an audio ARC of The Hidden Child by Rebecca Griffiths. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT 'THE HIDDEN CHILD': (Previously titled The Body on the Moor)
Manchester, England, 1965: In an instant Connie’s life has changed. She only left her daughter Kathy alone for a moment but that was enough for her to vanish without a trace. As Connie desperately searches for her, she has to put the news reports of other missing children to the back of her mind. She is determined to find her safe. She will bring her daughter home.
As local farmer Ronald listens to the news, he is shocked by what he hears. He has spent his life away from the spotlight, quietly tending to his farm. But when a young couple begin acting suspiciously on his land, he knows that trouble is about to reach his door.
And then he sees her. A girl in a bright red coat who looks completely lost. Ronald knows he needs to help keep her safe and find her family. But on the wild and desolate farmland, Ronald has buried his own dark secret. Can he risk it coming to light to save her life?
MY THOUGHTS: The Moors murders were carried out by Ian Brady and Myra Hindley between July 1963 and October 1965, in and around Manchester, England. The Missing Child uses this couple as its lynchpin, building tension around Myra Hindley's goddaughter going missing. As an antidote to the darkness of this couple, are the characters of Thomas and Ronald, two local bachelor farmers with a sad history.
It is difficult to feel any sympathy for Connie. Pregnant at fifteen to a married man, she resents and neglects her daughter yet wouldn't let her live with her parents where she would have been well cared for. I didn't like Connie to begin with, and as the story progressed I liked her even less.
The child Kathy is a wonderful character. She knows she is unwanted, that her mother would be much happier without her and takes matters, somewhat unwittingly, into her own hands.
Thomas and Ronald, the bachelor brothers, live an isolated life on their farm. They have a rather strange relationship, but one that works for them. Both have been losers in the love stakes and Ronald in particular still carries a torch for the one who got away.
The characters are well depicted with plenty of depth. While I actively disliked Connie, I was rooting for Thomas and Ronald right the way through. And the evil actually oozes from the characters of Myra and Ian.
Although this is a crime/mystery, it is very much a character driven one. There are no particularly graphic descriptions of violence. References are made to the actual victims of this couple and their families.
Narrators Richard Burnip and Sarah Durham narrated seamlessly and with great expertise.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#TheHiddenChild #NetGalley
I: @bookouture
T: @rebeccagriffit7 @Bookouture
#audiobook #crime #familydrama #historicalfaction #mystery
THE AUTHOR: Rebecca Griffiths grew up in mid-Wales and went on to gain a first class honours degree in English Literature.
After a successful business career in London, Dublin and Scotland, she returned to rural mid-Wales where she now lives with her husband, a prolific artist, four vampiric cats and pet sheep the size of sofas. (DHH Literary Agency)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture Audio via Netgalley for providing an audio ARC of The Hidden Child by Rebecca Griffiths. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
February 14, 2022
Inspired by a true story. I had not heard of the Moor Murders prior to reading this book and had to head over to Wikipedia to learn more.
There is a lot going on in this book so pay attention as the author blends fact with fiction. Myra Hindley and Ian Brady, July 1963, and October 1965, killed 5 children.
Black Fell Farm, Saddleworth Moor Robert and his brother have grown up here. They know the Moors. When a young woman and man begin acting strangely, Robert knows something isn't right. Then a little one shows up on his door and his brother wants to bring her in and keep her. only makes him feel more unease. Plus, he has another secret that prays will never be exposed.
There are a few characters in this book, but I found it easy to keep track of them. They are not that likeable which made it harder for me to feel too connected with them. Plus, I was quite annoyed that a character would leave a child alone in a car.
I enjoyed the blending of fact and fiction. I also enjoyed the narrator.
With this subject matter, there a few triggers.
While I enjoyed this book and audiobook, others enjoyed it more, so search out their reviews as well.
Thank you to Bookouture, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
There is a lot going on in this book so pay attention as the author blends fact with fiction. Myra Hindley and Ian Brady, July 1963, and October 1965, killed 5 children.
Black Fell Farm, Saddleworth Moor Robert and his brother have grown up here. They know the Moors. When a young woman and man begin acting strangely, Robert knows something isn't right. Then a little one shows up on his door and his brother wants to bring her in and keep her. only makes him feel more unease. Plus, he has another secret that prays will never be exposed.
There are a few characters in this book, but I found it easy to keep track of them. They are not that likeable which made it harder for me to feel too connected with them. Plus, I was quite annoyed that a character would leave a child alone in a car.
I enjoyed the blending of fact and fiction. I also enjoyed the narrator.
With this subject matter, there a few triggers.
While I enjoyed this book and audiobook, others enjoyed it more, so search out their reviews as well.
Thank you to Bookouture, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
February 11, 2022
I was intrigued when I read the blurb, and as I dove into this story, with every turn of the page, the intrigue continued to grow. I was completely enthralled with each character and their individual stories. I couldn’t wait to find out how they all connected.
I liked the fact that this included characters of every nature. Some I connected with and my heart ached for them to find a measure of happiness, others were flat out evil even before the author shined a light on their actions, and then there were those that I found myself judging, wondering, and switching from one opinion to another as the story progressed. It all added to the overall feel and texture of this story.
There were several times I found myself heartbroken, near tears, and anxious and then with only a turn of the page I’d find myself ranting and raving. To say this pulled me into the story and kept me engaged doesn’t give the full effect this story had on me.
While it isn’t necessary to have any knowledge of the Moor murders this story is written around, this author pulls at that mystery enough to make you want more of it after you turn the last page.
Multi POV
Safe - not really a romance although there is a small bit that added some angst
Triggers
I liked the fact that this included characters of every nature. Some I connected with and my heart ached for them to find a measure of happiness, others were flat out evil even before the author shined a light on their actions, and then there were those that I found myself judging, wondering, and switching from one opinion to another as the story progressed. It all added to the overall feel and texture of this story.
There were several times I found myself heartbroken, near tears, and anxious and then with only a turn of the page I’d find myself ranting and raving. To say this pulled me into the story and kept me engaged doesn’t give the full effect this story had on me.
While it isn’t necessary to have any knowledge of the Moor murders this story is written around, this author pulls at that mystery enough to make you want more of it after you turn the last page.
Multi POV
Safe - not really a romance although there is a small bit that added some angst
Triggers
February 18, 2022
Based on an actual true crime, The Hidden Child by Rebecca Griffiths is an historic fiction crime novel. Starting with a prologue, we see the murder of a father by his adult son in 1941. With a narrative leap to 1965 Manchester, we come across a Police Statement on the disappearance on the moor of eight people, including four children over three years. Then the disappearance of a child playing in a pub car park occurs and the lives of a number of families are impacted with far reaching ramifications. Ignorance of the Moor Murders was probably helpful for the enjoyment of this story. Fictionalising history to add characters to develop an imagined world can be a tricky balance to obtain. The rosy ending seemed innocuous given the horror of the original murders and an unnecessary narrative linkage, making for a three-star rating. With thanks to Bookouture and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and freely given, without persuasion.
December 6, 2022
“A child is missing. A secret is waiting to be found”
..
I don’t think I have ever been so undecided, or trepidatious about how to rate and review a book, which underpins my assertion that the entire process can be very subjective, as storylines often mean different things to different people and have the power to evoke many conflicting reactions and draw diverse conclusions. I knew this fictional account was based on factual events, but I had no idea of the overwhelming and consuming emotions it would evoke whilst I was reading.
For any potential overseas readers, or anyone who isn’t familiar with UK news events of the mid 1960s, google ‘Moors Murders’ and I dare you not to be repulsed by the sheer depravity of what you discover.
I was only a small child when those events took place, however the fact that death by hanging had only recently been repealed, so both Myra Hindley and Ian Brady spent the rest of their lives luxuriating in prison at the taxpayer’s expense, showed no genuine remorse and were never ‘persuaded’ to reveal the final resting place of the remains of one of their victims, even on their death-beds, still had the power to disturb and rile me more than I anticipated.
I don’t think it would have been quite so traumatic if author Rebecca Griffiths hadn’t chosen to use Hindley and Brady’s real names and make them such an integral part of the story, as IMHO neither of them deserve to be shown as anything other than the sadistic tyrants they undoubtedly were and not included in a storyline where there are potential happy endings, whereas for their victims’ families, there was no hope.
Without giving away spoilers, it is quite a challenge to encapsulate this heart-breaking storyline in a mere few words…
…
The story opens in 1941, at the height of WWII, on Black Fell Farm, where Ronald Cappleman lives, carrying out critical war work, whilst his brother Thomas is away fighting on the front line. Their mother is in the final throes of cancer, their father is a drunken bully and Ronald is cheating on his brother, with his sweetheart, Pamela. When his mother passes away, Ronald can take no more from his abusive father, although his act of retribution is brutally final and has the potential for disastrous consequences.
On hearing that a badly damaged Thomas has been discharged from active duty and is on his way home, Pamela leaves both men for another, although neither of them realise just how close by she stays, or what secret she has taken with her.
Fast forward to 1965 and Ronnie has no idea that a much changed, yet very astute Tommy, realises exactly what happened during his absence and has long ago forgiven his brother for all his sins. However, as the two of them seldom embark on deep and meaningful conversations, Tommy has no notion of the guilt which weighs Ronnie down and scares him, daily.
When a very young girl arrives at the farm, sick and dishevelled, much against Ronnie’s better judgement, he allows Tommy’s parenting instincts to take over and she is welcomed into their home. Ronnie knows that every attempt must be made to return her to her family, but Thomas’s obvious happiness colours his judgement.
Ronnie also has more pressing issues with a young, obviously ‘townie’ couple who keep coming to the moors and onto his land, where they have been acting suspiciously, have terrorised then shot two of his ewes and when he challenged them, then turned the gun on him, threatening to kill him if he didn’t leave them alone.
Running in parallel is the story of single mother Connie, who gave birth to her daughter when she was barely a teenager herself and has never been able to bear the constraints or responsibilities of motherhood. Living in a run-down flat, in a not so salubrious part of the city of Manchester, the child, Kathy, is neglected and often physically and verbally abused by a mother who drinks too much and can’t believe that she has found a man who is willing to love both her and Kathy for who they are and in the way they deserve.
She has shunned all help from her parents, who have moved to a nicer area, although still close by, and instead relies on the company of her best childhood friend from school, who is also not maternal, but in a much more overt way than Connie. Connie herself, is very wary of her friend’s boyfriend, a Scotsman who has a decidedly violent streak and a foul mouth to go with it. The couple are both devoid of any emotion or compassion, making them perfect for each other, although just how much in lockstep they are will only be revealed as time passes.
When Kathy goes missing, Connie can’t understand the maternal emotions which come flooding in and the sense of loss she feels, only hoping that it is not too late to make amends for her poor treatment of her daughter, should she be found alive. Connie’s father dies after losing his battle against cancer and surprisingly her mother immediately takes on a new lease of life and alongside traipsing the streets night and day in the vain hope of finding her granddaughter, she has every intention of rekindling an old flame, in the hope that she might have a second chance at the happiness she had walked away from.
Will there be at least one happy ending from this chilling storyline, the stuff of which nightmares are made?
…
I always enjoy brave, bold, multi-faceted, many layered storylines and I could only admire the blending of fact with fiction into a gripping story which was tense, dark, totally immersive, highly textured and nuanced.
With total authority and confidence author Rebecca Griffiths constructed an infinitely tangled web of lies, deceit, manipulation and coercive control, which made this desperately lugubrious, intense and relentless journey, like wading across a river of treacle and never quite making it to the other side.
With events spiralling further and further out of control, I became invested in the way in which the two complex parallel storylines each ran their independent courses, converging slowly towards the end, when all those long-held secrets were forced out into the open, to be confronted and dealt with, once and for all – That’s when I found myself turning the pages ever faster, as the danger was ratcheted up again and again and the twists kept on coming.
Set in the Yorkshire Moors, a part of the country I am largely unfamiliar with, the attention to detail and descriptive qualities with which Rebecca painted the physical location of the storyline, also meant that my appetite as an ‘armchair traveller’ was more than satisfied. I could picture the remote isolation of Ronald and Thomas’s farm and the high-rise tenement blocks and estate lifestyle of Connie and Fred, Myra and Ian, and Myra’s sister Maureen and Dave.
Rebecca has drawn and gathered a complex core set of characters, who whilst all were given a strong voice to direct and guide the storyline and were well cast into their individual roles, were nonetheless totally uninvestible and with whom I was completely unable to connect or show any sympathy, which I am certain is as she intended.
I might indeed have felt a smidgeon of sympathy for Connie, who when she thinks she might have lost her daughter for good, finally realised just how much she loved Kathy and how cruelly she had treated her for so much of her short life. But even that small touch of remorse couldn’t negate the overwhelming disgust I felt for her, both in her continued association with Myra and the help she shuns from her parents, who might have made her journey with Kathy a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience for them both.
Rebecca’s writing, if looked on dispassionately as a fictional story, is a study rich in human behaviour, with many social and moral issues touched upon to varying degrees and displayed so candidly in the emotional psyche and mental well-being of the characters; from the darker side of love, coercion and obsession emanating from minds bent and twisted beyond recognition; to the emotional angst and devastating desolation of families whose loved ones are missing and for whom there can be no closure until they know the truth, no matter how bad; and the naïve acceptance of the young, who only long to be unconditionally loved and nurtured.
Totally deserving of the full 5* I finally decided upon, which is an honest reflection of the quality and thrill ride of my edge-of-the-seat reading experience. I shall, without doubt, also be adding more of Rebecca’s books to my ‘wish list’.
Thank you for such a roller coaster journey of emotions, Rebecca!
..
I don’t think I have ever been so undecided, or trepidatious about how to rate and review a book, which underpins my assertion that the entire process can be very subjective, as storylines often mean different things to different people and have the power to evoke many conflicting reactions and draw diverse conclusions. I knew this fictional account was based on factual events, but I had no idea of the overwhelming and consuming emotions it would evoke whilst I was reading.
For any potential overseas readers, or anyone who isn’t familiar with UK news events of the mid 1960s, google ‘Moors Murders’ and I dare you not to be repulsed by the sheer depravity of what you discover.
I was only a small child when those events took place, however the fact that death by hanging had only recently been repealed, so both Myra Hindley and Ian Brady spent the rest of their lives luxuriating in prison at the taxpayer’s expense, showed no genuine remorse and were never ‘persuaded’ to reveal the final resting place of the remains of one of their victims, even on their death-beds, still had the power to disturb and rile me more than I anticipated.
I don’t think it would have been quite so traumatic if author Rebecca Griffiths hadn’t chosen to use Hindley and Brady’s real names and make them such an integral part of the story, as IMHO neither of them deserve to be shown as anything other than the sadistic tyrants they undoubtedly were and not included in a storyline where there are potential happy endings, whereas for their victims’ families, there was no hope.
Without giving away spoilers, it is quite a challenge to encapsulate this heart-breaking storyline in a mere few words…
…
The story opens in 1941, at the height of WWII, on Black Fell Farm, where Ronald Cappleman lives, carrying out critical war work, whilst his brother Thomas is away fighting on the front line. Their mother is in the final throes of cancer, their father is a drunken bully and Ronald is cheating on his brother, with his sweetheart, Pamela. When his mother passes away, Ronald can take no more from his abusive father, although his act of retribution is brutally final and has the potential for disastrous consequences.
On hearing that a badly damaged Thomas has been discharged from active duty and is on his way home, Pamela leaves both men for another, although neither of them realise just how close by she stays, or what secret she has taken with her.
Fast forward to 1965 and Ronnie has no idea that a much changed, yet very astute Tommy, realises exactly what happened during his absence and has long ago forgiven his brother for all his sins. However, as the two of them seldom embark on deep and meaningful conversations, Tommy has no notion of the guilt which weighs Ronnie down and scares him, daily.
When a very young girl arrives at the farm, sick and dishevelled, much against Ronnie’s better judgement, he allows Tommy’s parenting instincts to take over and she is welcomed into their home. Ronnie knows that every attempt must be made to return her to her family, but Thomas’s obvious happiness colours his judgement.
Ronnie also has more pressing issues with a young, obviously ‘townie’ couple who keep coming to the moors and onto his land, where they have been acting suspiciously, have terrorised then shot two of his ewes and when he challenged them, then turned the gun on him, threatening to kill him if he didn’t leave them alone.
Running in parallel is the story of single mother Connie, who gave birth to her daughter when she was barely a teenager herself and has never been able to bear the constraints or responsibilities of motherhood. Living in a run-down flat, in a not so salubrious part of the city of Manchester, the child, Kathy, is neglected and often physically and verbally abused by a mother who drinks too much and can’t believe that she has found a man who is willing to love both her and Kathy for who they are and in the way they deserve.
She has shunned all help from her parents, who have moved to a nicer area, although still close by, and instead relies on the company of her best childhood friend from school, who is also not maternal, but in a much more overt way than Connie. Connie herself, is very wary of her friend’s boyfriend, a Scotsman who has a decidedly violent streak and a foul mouth to go with it. The couple are both devoid of any emotion or compassion, making them perfect for each other, although just how much in lockstep they are will only be revealed as time passes.
When Kathy goes missing, Connie can’t understand the maternal emotions which come flooding in and the sense of loss she feels, only hoping that it is not too late to make amends for her poor treatment of her daughter, should she be found alive. Connie’s father dies after losing his battle against cancer and surprisingly her mother immediately takes on a new lease of life and alongside traipsing the streets night and day in the vain hope of finding her granddaughter, she has every intention of rekindling an old flame, in the hope that she might have a second chance at the happiness she had walked away from.
Will there be at least one happy ending from this chilling storyline, the stuff of which nightmares are made?
…
I always enjoy brave, bold, multi-faceted, many layered storylines and I could only admire the blending of fact with fiction into a gripping story which was tense, dark, totally immersive, highly textured and nuanced.
With total authority and confidence author Rebecca Griffiths constructed an infinitely tangled web of lies, deceit, manipulation and coercive control, which made this desperately lugubrious, intense and relentless journey, like wading across a river of treacle and never quite making it to the other side.
With events spiralling further and further out of control, I became invested in the way in which the two complex parallel storylines each ran their independent courses, converging slowly towards the end, when all those long-held secrets were forced out into the open, to be confronted and dealt with, once and for all – That’s when I found myself turning the pages ever faster, as the danger was ratcheted up again and again and the twists kept on coming.
Set in the Yorkshire Moors, a part of the country I am largely unfamiliar with, the attention to detail and descriptive qualities with which Rebecca painted the physical location of the storyline, also meant that my appetite as an ‘armchair traveller’ was more than satisfied. I could picture the remote isolation of Ronald and Thomas’s farm and the high-rise tenement blocks and estate lifestyle of Connie and Fred, Myra and Ian, and Myra’s sister Maureen and Dave.
Rebecca has drawn and gathered a complex core set of characters, who whilst all were given a strong voice to direct and guide the storyline and were well cast into their individual roles, were nonetheless totally uninvestible and with whom I was completely unable to connect or show any sympathy, which I am certain is as she intended.
I might indeed have felt a smidgeon of sympathy for Connie, who when she thinks she might have lost her daughter for good, finally realised just how much she loved Kathy and how cruelly she had treated her for so much of her short life. But even that small touch of remorse couldn’t negate the overwhelming disgust I felt for her, both in her continued association with Myra and the help she shuns from her parents, who might have made her journey with Kathy a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience for them both.
Rebecca’s writing, if looked on dispassionately as a fictional story, is a study rich in human behaviour, with many social and moral issues touched upon to varying degrees and displayed so candidly in the emotional psyche and mental well-being of the characters; from the darker side of love, coercion and obsession emanating from minds bent and twisted beyond recognition; to the emotional angst and devastating desolation of families whose loved ones are missing and for whom there can be no closure until they know the truth, no matter how bad; and the naïve acceptance of the young, who only long to be unconditionally loved and nurtured.
Totally deserving of the full 5* I finally decided upon, which is an honest reflection of the quality and thrill ride of my edge-of-the-seat reading experience. I shall, without doubt, also be adding more of Rebecca’s books to my ‘wish list’.
Thank you for such a roller coaster journey of emotions, Rebecca!
January 14, 2022
Inspired by the true crime story of the Moors murders, The Body On The Moors Rebecca Griffiths mixes fact and fiction together to create an unusual and original crime mystery. Against the backdrop of true events, young Kathy Openshaw vanishes when she’s left unattended in her mother’s car. Ronald owns the Black Fell Farm on the infamous Saddleworth Moor. The farm holds his darkest secrets which have laid buried for years. The couple’s stories intertwine with those of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley, creating a tense fuelled mystery.
Brady and Hindley committed the most heinous crimes, so I admit I picked up this book with a great deal of trepidation. But I’m glad to say the story’s emphasis is more on Ronald and Connie, Kathy’s mother. Brady and Hindley feel more like peripheral characters, but never the less the authors’ portrayal of Hindley and Brady will send shivers down your spine. They add a genuine sense of menace to the overall plot. The Body On The Moor has an intriguing concept that’s well executed. The author has blended fact and fiction into a credible story that captures the reader’s imagination from the off.
Brady and Hindley committed the most heinous crimes, so I admit I picked up this book with a great deal of trepidation. But I’m glad to say the story’s emphasis is more on Ronald and Connie, Kathy’s mother. Brady and Hindley feel more like peripheral characters, but never the less the authors’ portrayal of Hindley and Brady will send shivers down your spine. They add a genuine sense of menace to the overall plot. The Body On The Moor has an intriguing concept that’s well executed. The author has blended fact and fiction into a credible story that captures the reader’s imagination from the off.
February 24, 2022
The Girl in the Red Coat
A thrilling mystery based on a true crime story. This story will draw you in and keep you reading from the first page to the last page.
The time is 1965, the place is Manchester, England. The settings are in a village and on a farm outside the village. It is a story of friendship and betrayal by friends. A family saga and secrets long held. Murder, mayhem and missing children. Two brothers with secrets between them. One secret known and kept and one secret not spoken.
Connie and Fred go out to the pub for an hour to have a drink with friends. Cathy, Connie's 7 year old daughter is told to stay in the car and wait for them. She sits in the car with her doll and waits. When Connie and Fred go back to the car Cathy is missing.
Ronnie and Thomas live on a secluded farm at the edge of the moors. The brother's have lived there after Thomas returned from the war, the death of their mother and the disappearance of their father over 24 years ago.
Ronnie has a run in with two young people that shoot two of his sheep and hold a gun to his head. These young people continue to taunt Ronnie. He does not tell his brother because he does not want to worry him and he cannot go to the police for reasons of his own.
Then one day a little girl shows up at the farm. Wet, dirty cold and exhausted they take her in and call her Gracie after their mother.
I loved the descriptions of the town, the moors and the lovely countryside. How the people lived, dressed and acted during this period. I love the character of Cathy, such an adorable and inquisitive child.
The narration was perfect. I really enjoyed how the book was narrated, they did a wonderful job of telling the story.
How all these events are interlinked, intertwined and the twist in it all makes for a wonderful mystery thriller. I think you will enjoy this story as much as I did.
Thanks to Rebecca Griffiths for writing a great story, to Sarah Durham and Richard Bunip for a wonderful job narrating it , to Bookouture audio for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
A thrilling mystery based on a true crime story. This story will draw you in and keep you reading from the first page to the last page.
The time is 1965, the place is Manchester, England. The settings are in a village and on a farm outside the village. It is a story of friendship and betrayal by friends. A family saga and secrets long held. Murder, mayhem and missing children. Two brothers with secrets between them. One secret known and kept and one secret not spoken.
Connie and Fred go out to the pub for an hour to have a drink with friends. Cathy, Connie's 7 year old daughter is told to stay in the car and wait for them. She sits in the car with her doll and waits. When Connie and Fred go back to the car Cathy is missing.
Ronnie and Thomas live on a secluded farm at the edge of the moors. The brother's have lived there after Thomas returned from the war, the death of their mother and the disappearance of their father over 24 years ago.
Ronnie has a run in with two young people that shoot two of his sheep and hold a gun to his head. These young people continue to taunt Ronnie. He does not tell his brother because he does not want to worry him and he cannot go to the police for reasons of his own.
Then one day a little girl shows up at the farm. Wet, dirty cold and exhausted they take her in and call her Gracie after their mother.
I loved the descriptions of the town, the moors and the lovely countryside. How the people lived, dressed and acted during this period. I love the character of Cathy, such an adorable and inquisitive child.
The narration was perfect. I really enjoyed how the book was narrated, they did a wonderful job of telling the story.
How all these events are interlinked, intertwined and the twist in it all makes for a wonderful mystery thriller. I think you will enjoy this story as much as I did.
Thanks to Rebecca Griffiths for writing a great story, to Sarah Durham and Richard Bunip for a wonderful job narrating it , to Bookouture audio for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
February 24, 2022
Manchester, England, 1965: In an instant, Connie's life has changed. She only left her daughter Kathy alone for a moment, but that was enough for her to vanish without a trace. As Connie desperately searches for her, she has to put the newspaper reports if other missing children to the back of her mind. She is determined to find her safe. She will bring her daughter home.
This story cleverly merges fact with fiction. It's based around the time that Ian Brady and Myra Hindley, The Moors Murders, were taking young children. This is a cleverly crafted, complex and intriguing read. You could actually feel the evil dripping off the pages. None of the characters are likeable, but they are believable. The author has put a lot of time into researching the Moors and the surrounding area. The storyline can be harrowing in places. The pace is steady throughout. My only complaint is that it seemed to end abruptly, everything felt rushed. Apart from that, I loved it.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #RebeccaGriffiths for my ARC of #TheHiddenChild in exchange for an honest review.
This story cleverly merges fact with fiction. It's based around the time that Ian Brady and Myra Hindley, The Moors Murders, were taking young children. This is a cleverly crafted, complex and intriguing read. You could actually feel the evil dripping off the pages. None of the characters are likeable, but they are believable. The author has put a lot of time into researching the Moors and the surrounding area. The storyline can be harrowing in places. The pace is steady throughout. My only complaint is that it seemed to end abruptly, everything felt rushed. Apart from that, I loved it.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #RebeccaGriffiths for my ARC of #TheHiddenChild in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2021
This novel is incredible! Despite dealing with horrifying subjects from child neglect and abuse to serial abduction and brutal murders well and cleverly concealed, the writing is truly engaging and so vivid. I had read the news reports at the time of the Moors Murders, the true crime events on which this novel is based, and some Nonfiction accounts. But here, viewed through the eyes of two particular characters and their milieu, I felt as if I was the proverbial "fly on the wall," watching these events and the truly terrifying villains up close and all too personal.
February 17, 2022
4.5★s
The Hidden Child is the sixth novel by British author, Rebecca Griffiths. At fifty-three, sheep farmer Ronald Cappleman is happiest out on the moor, in the open space. Hikers don’t bother him, but the young couple who keep turning up in their turquoise Mini unsettle him: they seem a strange pair, dressed too fancy for the moor, shooting bottles for target practice, upsetting his ewes, and when he confronts them, it doesn’t go well.
Ronald has also seen them with a bundle and a spade, one evening, but alerting the police is not an option: he couldn’t have them on the moor, maybe stumbling on his long-held secret.
When Connie Openshaw goes into the Waggon and Horses for a few drinks with her boyfriend, Fred, she’s sure her seven-year-old daughter Kathy will be fine in the car for a while. But some hours later, having seen off her childhood friend, Myra and Myra’s rather creepy boyfriend, Ian, she and Fred find that Kathy is no longer in the car. They are frantic with worry, but the police seem more focussed on Fred and his juvenile theft record than on searching for Kathy.
While Kathy’s grandmother posts leaflets begging for information about the child, Connie and Fred face community criticism and condemnation, accusations and threats. When a police DCI suggests that Kathy’s disappearance may be linked to other children who have gone missing over the past few years, Connie is even more distraught. But at no time does she suspect her friend Myra might be involved.
The story is set in the last month before the world learns about what become known as The Moors Murders, and the fictional protagonist’s lives credibly intersect with those of the notorious real-life murderers, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady. Hindley and Brady are chillingly portrayed. Griffiths’s depiction of the era is faultless, and she captures the attitude of the police, the media and the public exceptionally well.
Griffiths conveys with skill the ordeal of the parents and extended family of a missing child. The reader is privy, early on, to Kathy’s fate and whereabouts, and while this blend of fact and fiction is quite effective, the twist is not so unpredictable that the astute reader will not twig. Nonetheless, a real page-turner.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Bookouture.
The Hidden Child is the sixth novel by British author, Rebecca Griffiths. At fifty-three, sheep farmer Ronald Cappleman is happiest out on the moor, in the open space. Hikers don’t bother him, but the young couple who keep turning up in their turquoise Mini unsettle him: they seem a strange pair, dressed too fancy for the moor, shooting bottles for target practice, upsetting his ewes, and when he confronts them, it doesn’t go well.
Ronald has also seen them with a bundle and a spade, one evening, but alerting the police is not an option: he couldn’t have them on the moor, maybe stumbling on his long-held secret.
When Connie Openshaw goes into the Waggon and Horses for a few drinks with her boyfriend, Fred, she’s sure her seven-year-old daughter Kathy will be fine in the car for a while. But some hours later, having seen off her childhood friend, Myra and Myra’s rather creepy boyfriend, Ian, she and Fred find that Kathy is no longer in the car. They are frantic with worry, but the police seem more focussed on Fred and his juvenile theft record than on searching for Kathy.
While Kathy’s grandmother posts leaflets begging for information about the child, Connie and Fred face community criticism and condemnation, accusations and threats. When a police DCI suggests that Kathy’s disappearance may be linked to other children who have gone missing over the past few years, Connie is even more distraught. But at no time does she suspect her friend Myra might be involved.
The story is set in the last month before the world learns about what become known as The Moors Murders, and the fictional protagonist’s lives credibly intersect with those of the notorious real-life murderers, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady. Hindley and Brady are chillingly portrayed. Griffiths’s depiction of the era is faultless, and she captures the attitude of the police, the media and the public exceptionally well.
Griffiths conveys with skill the ordeal of the parents and extended family of a missing child. The reader is privy, early on, to Kathy’s fate and whereabouts, and while this blend of fact and fiction is quite effective, the twist is not so unpredictable that the astute reader will not twig. Nonetheless, a real page-turner.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Bookouture.
March 2, 2022
Connie has been in a downward spiral most of her life and she's been taking her young daughter, Kathy, with her. Connie is not a good mom. Poor Kathy isn't even sure what her name really is because Connie usually calls her "maggot." Everything changes when Connie leaves Kathy in the car while she goes into a bar with her boyfriend and returns, hours later, to find Kathy is gone. Connie realizes what's really important, but will that be enough to set her on a straighter path and find her daughter?
My initial thoughts on finishing the novel were that all the characters are a little too interwoven to be believable and that it took a few chapters to really get into the book because of all the different subplots, but overall I did enjoy the story.
Here's my beef - the story is set in Manchester, England. It's a city of 2.7 million people now. I'm not sure about the population in 1965, but suffice it to say it was not small. The story seems to confirm that this is not a small town and the characters do not know everyone when they are out searching for Kathy. Without spoiling anything, I'll just say that all the main characters are just too connected. It requires some suspension of disbelief.
What I did really appreciate was the depth of some of the characters and how true to their nature they remained. Connie, in her despair, was still the hot mess she was before Kathy's disappearance. She had a lot of issues and they were not going away just because she now realized what an awful mom she had been. All of the characters that I got to know well were wonderfully flawed, rich characters.
On the other hand, I was confused by Myra and her boyfriend. I needed to know a lot more about them. The author only gives the occasional glimpse of them and there is too much contradiction between the two of them. I needed a lot more there than was given.
I'm rating this one 3.5 stars rounding up.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this advance reader copy. This is my unbiased, honest review.
My initial thoughts on finishing the novel were that all the characters are a little too interwoven to be believable and that it took a few chapters to really get into the book because of all the different subplots, but overall I did enjoy the story.
Here's my beef - the story is set in Manchester, England. It's a city of 2.7 million people now. I'm not sure about the population in 1965, but suffice it to say it was not small. The story seems to confirm that this is not a small town and the characters do not know everyone when they are out searching for Kathy. Without spoiling anything, I'll just say that all the main characters are just too connected. It requires some suspension of disbelief.
What I did really appreciate was the depth of some of the characters and how true to their nature they remained. Connie, in her despair, was still the hot mess she was before Kathy's disappearance. She had a lot of issues and they were not going away just because she now realized what an awful mom she had been. All of the characters that I got to know well were wonderfully flawed, rich characters.
On the other hand, I was confused by Myra and her boyfriend. I needed to know a lot more about them. The author only gives the occasional glimpse of them and there is too much contradiction between the two of them. I needed a lot more there than was given.
I'm rating this one 3.5 stars rounding up.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this advance reader copy. This is my unbiased, honest review.
February 17, 2022
4.5★s
The Hidden Child is the sixth novel by British author, Rebecca Griffiths. The audio version is narrated by Sarah Durham and Richard Burnip. At fifty-three, sheep farmer Ronald Cappleman is happiest out on the moor, in the open space. Hikers don’t bother him, but the young couple who keep turning up in their turquoise Mini unsettle him: they seem a strange pair, dressed too fancy for the moor, shooting bottles for target practice, upsetting his ewes, and when he confronts them, it doesn’t go well.
Ronald has also seen them with a bundle and a spade, one evening, but alerting the police is not an option: he couldn’t have them on the moor, maybe stumbling on his long-held secret.
When Connie Openshaw goes into the Waggon and Horses for a few drinks with her boyfriend, Fred, she’s sure her seven-year-old daughter Kathy will be fine in the car for a while. But some hours later, having seen off her childhood friend, Myra and Myra’s rather creepy boyfriend, Ian, she and Fred find that Kathy is no longer in the car. They are frantic with worry, but the police seem more focussed on Fred and his juvenile theft record than on searching for Kathy.
While Kathy’s grandmother posts leaflets begging for information about the child, Connie and Fred face community criticism and condemnation, accusations and threats. When a police DCI suggests that Kathy’s disappearance may be linked to other children who have gone missing over the past few years, Connie is even more distraught. But at no time does she suspect her friend Myra might be involved.
The story is set in the last month before the world learns about what become known as The Moors Murders, and the fictional protagonist’s lives credibly intersect with those of the notorious real-life murderers, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady. Hindley and Brady are chillingly portrayed. Griffiths’s depiction of the era is faultless, and she captures the attitude of the police, the media and the public exceptionally well.
Griffiths conveys with skill the ordeal of the parents and extended family of a missing child. The reader is privy, early on, to Kathy’s fate and whereabouts, and while this blend of fact and fiction is quite effective, the twist is not so unpredictable that the astute reader will not twig. Nonetheless, a real page-turner.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Bookouture Audio.
The Hidden Child is the sixth novel by British author, Rebecca Griffiths. The audio version is narrated by Sarah Durham and Richard Burnip. At fifty-three, sheep farmer Ronald Cappleman is happiest out on the moor, in the open space. Hikers don’t bother him, but the young couple who keep turning up in their turquoise Mini unsettle him: they seem a strange pair, dressed too fancy for the moor, shooting bottles for target practice, upsetting his ewes, and when he confronts them, it doesn’t go well.
Ronald has also seen them with a bundle and a spade, one evening, but alerting the police is not an option: he couldn’t have them on the moor, maybe stumbling on his long-held secret.
When Connie Openshaw goes into the Waggon and Horses for a few drinks with her boyfriend, Fred, she’s sure her seven-year-old daughter Kathy will be fine in the car for a while. But some hours later, having seen off her childhood friend, Myra and Myra’s rather creepy boyfriend, Ian, she and Fred find that Kathy is no longer in the car. They are frantic with worry, but the police seem more focussed on Fred and his juvenile theft record than on searching for Kathy.
While Kathy’s grandmother posts leaflets begging for information about the child, Connie and Fred face community criticism and condemnation, accusations and threats. When a police DCI suggests that Kathy’s disappearance may be linked to other children who have gone missing over the past few years, Connie is even more distraught. But at no time does she suspect her friend Myra might be involved.
The story is set in the last month before the world learns about what become known as The Moors Murders, and the fictional protagonist’s lives credibly intersect with those of the notorious real-life murderers, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady. Hindley and Brady are chillingly portrayed. Griffiths’s depiction of the era is faultless, and she captures the attitude of the police, the media and the public exceptionally well.
Griffiths conveys with skill the ordeal of the parents and extended family of a missing child. The reader is privy, early on, to Kathy’s fate and whereabouts, and while this blend of fact and fiction is quite effective, the twist is not so unpredictable that the astute reader will not twig. Nonetheless, a real page-turner.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Bookouture Audio.
January 21, 2022
Another gripping read from Rebecca Griffiths. Again, the interweaving of a major true crime case with a compelling fiction plot reeled me in. In this book, Griffiths uses the horrific Moors Murderers Myra Hindley and Ian Brady as background for the story that focuses mainly on the characters Ronald, a Yorkshire farmer who lives with his war veteran brother and Connie, whose 7-year-old daughter Kathy goes missing from a pub car park (she’d been left in the car while her mum and her boyfriend are inside…different times. This book is set in the late 1960s) I’m a big fan of Rebecca Griffiths’s books.
February 27, 2022
I am a big fan of Rebecca Griffiths, her writing style suits my reading style and we share a similar taste in both black cats and infamous murderers. Her last book fictionalised John Christie and this time she’s taken on the heavy task of the moors murderers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley.
I can honestly say with a hand on my heart that even I had concerns with this. How could she take something so evil and make it readable without glorifying them or making their despicable acts come across as entertainment. I should have known better as she has found the perfect balance by using the fictional characters to take the lead and blending fact and fiction seamlessly.
The prologue was used to full effect showing the murder of a father by his son in 1941 before moving to 1965 and Manchester where we learn of people disappearing on the moors. Then to the heartbreak of Connie whose daughter Kathy has gone missing from the car park while she was in the pub with her boyfriend Fred.
Then there is quiet farmer Ronald and his brother Thomas. The intersecting of all these characters played out and having knowledge of the real crimes I had a foreboding that was both gripping and disturbing at the same time.
This is not an easy read by any means but the care, attention and details make this a must read for fans of true crime and thrillers alike. Rebecca’s storytelling is fresh and unique and I hope she continues with her faction blends!
I can honestly say with a hand on my heart that even I had concerns with this. How could she take something so evil and make it readable without glorifying them or making their despicable acts come across as entertainment. I should have known better as she has found the perfect balance by using the fictional characters to take the lead and blending fact and fiction seamlessly.
The prologue was used to full effect showing the murder of a father by his son in 1941 before moving to 1965 and Manchester where we learn of people disappearing on the moors. Then to the heartbreak of Connie whose daughter Kathy has gone missing from the car park while she was in the pub with her boyfriend Fred.
Then there is quiet farmer Ronald and his brother Thomas. The intersecting of all these characters played out and having knowledge of the real crimes I had a foreboding that was both gripping and disturbing at the same time.
This is not an easy read by any means but the care, attention and details make this a must read for fans of true crime and thrillers alike. Rebecca’s storytelling is fresh and unique and I hope she continues with her faction blends!
February 23, 2022
★★★★ 4.5 stars
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Rebecca Griffith's new crime thriller THE HIDDEN CHILD (formerly titled "The Body on the Moor" ).
After reading and thoroughly enjoying Rebecca Griffiths' previous thriller "The Girl at my Door" , I was excited to discover her next offering also cleverly blends fact with fiction to create yet another chilling tale. The Moors Murders are well known just as the names Ian Brady and Myra Hindley are in infamy. Their crimes live on long after they both have gone as does the pain and suffering they left in their wake. In THE HIDDEN CHILD, Griffiths builds a fictionalised world around Brady and Hindley, even weaving them into the story as they play an integral part in the both the real and the fictional tales that are cleverly told and woven together.
Black Fell Farm, Saddleworth Moor, 1965: Although the story opens with a prologue in 1941, it's not until we meet Ronald Cappleman twenty four years later as a middle-aged man now running the farm upon which he and his younger brother Thomas grew up on, that the story really begins to take hold. Ronnie and his brother know the Moors. They grew up here. So when a young couple begin acting somewhat strangely inside the confines of his farm, Ronnie knows something isn't right. There is something off about this couple - a fashionably dressed woman with bottle blonde hair and an irate Scot enjoying picnics and taking photos at the same place on a regular basis. Ronnie knows and loves the moors but these two? What is it that draws them to this part of Saddleworth Moor so often?
When the couple notice him in the shadows, they begin calling out obscenities and making threats. But it's when Ronnie sees the irate Scot he's nicknamed "Sporran" (on account of his obvious accent) with a gun shooting haphazardly at bottles he has "Platinum" (on account of her hair) line up for him, Ronnie informs them that they are on private property and to clear off. But who's going to make them? Ronnie has no idea who he is up against as Ian Brady is not one to back down and now he has Ronnie in his sights, he has earmarked him as a challenge.
Manchester, 1965: Young mum Connie Openshaw got herself pregnant at fifteen to a married man who was never going to leave his wife and was then left literally holding the baby. Her daughter Kathy, now seven, has never felt loved or wanted by her mother who complained on a regular basis that she missed her freedom that having "Maggot" (which she called the child) had stolen from her. Little Kathy, who thought her name was Maggot since she was called that more often than her actual name, barely uttered a word probably because she was never really heard anyway. Her mam's friend, Myra (who she was made to call Aunty Myra), was a regular fixture at their new council flat, popping in for a cup of tea and a gossip. But Kathy missed living at her gran's. She missed her gran and grandad. They were kind to her and gave her cuddles. They noticed her.
When Connie and her boyfriend Fred go to the Waggon and Horse pub for a couple of drinks, Connie instructs Kathy to stay in the car and play with her dolly while they are gone. Fred, who is always nice to her, promised to bring out a lemonade and a packet of crisps. But whilst in the pub, Connie and Fred draw the unwanted attention of Ian and Myra and, not wanting to be rude, decide to join them. But Ian's self-inflated arrogance boasting his well-versed knowledge grates on the young couple although Myra appears to bask in his self-importance. He spares no one's feelings in his outright insults and, completely under his spell, Myra just laughs along with him agreeing with him wholeheartedly.
But what he says before departing chills Connie to the bone: "What if you were to go back to the car and find the little 'un wasn't there?"
So when Connie and Fred finally do leave over an hour later, they are shocked to discover that Kathy is indeed missing. What was Ian saying? Did he take her little girl? Connie is frantic as she searches and calls for Kathy to no avail. When they call the police, their attention is more on Fred's previous form than they are about finding her young daughter. But with the news of several children having gone missing from the area over the past couple of years, Connie is afraid that her Kathy may be one of them.
While it may be a mystery to Connie where her daughter has disappeared to, it's not to the reader as we discover early on she finds herself up on the moors, by way of a misadventure involving lambs, before escaping some shouting and arriving in the drenching rain on the doorstep of Black Fell Farm. She is cold, wet and exhausted from her travels so Ronnie and Thomas immediately take the girl in, warming her up by the fire and feeding her though it soon becomes clear the girl is ill. Ronnie wants to call a doctor but Thomas wants to keep her. He calls her Gracie after their late mother.
Set within the last months before the Moors Murders gains notoriety worldwide, THE HIDDEN CHILD blends fact with fiction to create a chilling tale intersecting with real-life murderers, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady, who are chillingly portrayed. The disappearances of children in the area, as well as Hindley and Brady's morbid attraction to the moors where they buried their victims, is the perfect backdrop for this missing child thriller. Has Kathy fallen to a similar fate as that of the other missing children in the past couple of years? Or is it just a massive coincidence? Brady loved to stir up trouble and he wasted no time in doing so with Connie, leaving her to believe that Kathy could well have suffered the same fate. He was sinister and evil and I hated his character with a vengeance. But then again, that is exactly how Brady was. He was remorseless and arrogance and quite obviously was a psychopath, before the trait had even been discovered. Myra was a little more ambiguous. Was she an innocent who had fallen completely under Brady's spell? Or was she just as guilty and just as culpable?
And what of Connie? Who didn't care much for her daughter until she went missing? Only then did she realise what she had and her anguish could be palpably felt. The author did a good job of making the reader sympathise with her despite her obvious neglect...but she was still very young herself having had Kathy at 15. I quite liked Fred who was Connie's rock throughout it all, despite her treatment of him at times and harsh accusations. Connie needed stability in her life and Fred offered her that...she just didn't want to know it at the time and sought to punish herself for leaving her child alone. There are several other supporting characters throughout, both real and fictionalised also, which add credence to a thrilling and chilling story.
Although we know how Hindley and Brady's end plays out, readers are left to wonder how the story involving Kathy's disappearance will pan out. Surely it couldn't end well when it comes to light that she's been living up on the moors for the best part of two months without a word? And what of the secret Ronnie has tried to keep buried for twenty four years? What will happen when the police search of the moors lead them onto his land? I did however like how the ending ultimately played out.
THE HIDDEN CHILD is well researched and skillfully plotted as Griffiths weaves fact with fiction. I love how she uses true crime not only as a backdrop to her recent thrillers but also involves them in the story that they become part of the fictionalised tale as well. She did it with John Christie in "The Girl at my Door" and she does it again with this cleverly crafted tale.
I have to wonder which infamous true crime case she will pull from the archives to weave her next story? The Yorkshire Ripper? The Beast of Birkenshaw? Dennis Neilsen? Fred and Rose West? They are the only UK serial killers I can think of off the top of my head just now. But whatever it is, I look forward to delving into that one also...
I would like to thank #RebeccaGriffiths, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheHiddenChild in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Rebecca Griffith's new crime thriller THE HIDDEN CHILD (formerly titled "The Body on the Moor" ).
After reading and thoroughly enjoying Rebecca Griffiths' previous thriller "The Girl at my Door" , I was excited to discover her next offering also cleverly blends fact with fiction to create yet another chilling tale. The Moors Murders are well known just as the names Ian Brady and Myra Hindley are in infamy. Their crimes live on long after they both have gone as does the pain and suffering they left in their wake. In THE HIDDEN CHILD, Griffiths builds a fictionalised world around Brady and Hindley, even weaving them into the story as they play an integral part in the both the real and the fictional tales that are cleverly told and woven together.
Black Fell Farm, Saddleworth Moor, 1965: Although the story opens with a prologue in 1941, it's not until we meet Ronald Cappleman twenty four years later as a middle-aged man now running the farm upon which he and his younger brother Thomas grew up on, that the story really begins to take hold. Ronnie and his brother know the Moors. They grew up here. So when a young couple begin acting somewhat strangely inside the confines of his farm, Ronnie knows something isn't right. There is something off about this couple - a fashionably dressed woman with bottle blonde hair and an irate Scot enjoying picnics and taking photos at the same place on a regular basis. Ronnie knows and loves the moors but these two? What is it that draws them to this part of Saddleworth Moor so often?
When the couple notice him in the shadows, they begin calling out obscenities and making threats. But it's when Ronnie sees the irate Scot he's nicknamed "Sporran" (on account of his obvious accent) with a gun shooting haphazardly at bottles he has "Platinum" (on account of her hair) line up for him, Ronnie informs them that they are on private property and to clear off. But who's going to make them? Ronnie has no idea who he is up against as Ian Brady is not one to back down and now he has Ronnie in his sights, he has earmarked him as a challenge.
Manchester, 1965: Young mum Connie Openshaw got herself pregnant at fifteen to a married man who was never going to leave his wife and was then left literally holding the baby. Her daughter Kathy, now seven, has never felt loved or wanted by her mother who complained on a regular basis that she missed her freedom that having "Maggot" (which she called the child) had stolen from her. Little Kathy, who thought her name was Maggot since she was called that more often than her actual name, barely uttered a word probably because she was never really heard anyway. Her mam's friend, Myra (who she was made to call Aunty Myra), was a regular fixture at their new council flat, popping in for a cup of tea and a gossip. But Kathy missed living at her gran's. She missed her gran and grandad. They were kind to her and gave her cuddles. They noticed her.
When Connie and her boyfriend Fred go to the Waggon and Horse pub for a couple of drinks, Connie instructs Kathy to stay in the car and play with her dolly while they are gone. Fred, who is always nice to her, promised to bring out a lemonade and a packet of crisps. But whilst in the pub, Connie and Fred draw the unwanted attention of Ian and Myra and, not wanting to be rude, decide to join them. But Ian's self-inflated arrogance boasting his well-versed knowledge grates on the young couple although Myra appears to bask in his self-importance. He spares no one's feelings in his outright insults and, completely under his spell, Myra just laughs along with him agreeing with him wholeheartedly.
But what he says before departing chills Connie to the bone: "What if you were to go back to the car and find the little 'un wasn't there?"
So when Connie and Fred finally do leave over an hour later, they are shocked to discover that Kathy is indeed missing. What was Ian saying? Did he take her little girl? Connie is frantic as she searches and calls for Kathy to no avail. When they call the police, their attention is more on Fred's previous form than they are about finding her young daughter. But with the news of several children having gone missing from the area over the past couple of years, Connie is afraid that her Kathy may be one of them.
While it may be a mystery to Connie where her daughter has disappeared to, it's not to the reader as we discover early on she finds herself up on the moors, by way of a misadventure involving lambs, before escaping some shouting and arriving in the drenching rain on the doorstep of Black Fell Farm. She is cold, wet and exhausted from her travels so Ronnie and Thomas immediately take the girl in, warming her up by the fire and feeding her though it soon becomes clear the girl is ill. Ronnie wants to call a doctor but Thomas wants to keep her. He calls her Gracie after their late mother.
Set within the last months before the Moors Murders gains notoriety worldwide, THE HIDDEN CHILD blends fact with fiction to create a chilling tale intersecting with real-life murderers, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady, who are chillingly portrayed. The disappearances of children in the area, as well as Hindley and Brady's morbid attraction to the moors where they buried their victims, is the perfect backdrop for this missing child thriller. Has Kathy fallen to a similar fate as that of the other missing children in the past couple of years? Or is it just a massive coincidence? Brady loved to stir up trouble and he wasted no time in doing so with Connie, leaving her to believe that Kathy could well have suffered the same fate. He was sinister and evil and I hated his character with a vengeance. But then again, that is exactly how Brady was. He was remorseless and arrogance and quite obviously was a psychopath, before the trait had even been discovered. Myra was a little more ambiguous. Was she an innocent who had fallen completely under Brady's spell? Or was she just as guilty and just as culpable?
And what of Connie? Who didn't care much for her daughter until she went missing? Only then did she realise what she had and her anguish could be palpably felt. The author did a good job of making the reader sympathise with her despite her obvious neglect...but she was still very young herself having had Kathy at 15. I quite liked Fred who was Connie's rock throughout it all, despite her treatment of him at times and harsh accusations. Connie needed stability in her life and Fred offered her that...she just didn't want to know it at the time and sought to punish herself for leaving her child alone. There are several other supporting characters throughout, both real and fictionalised also, which add credence to a thrilling and chilling story.
Although we know how Hindley and Brady's end plays out, readers are left to wonder how the story involving Kathy's disappearance will pan out. Surely it couldn't end well when it comes to light that she's been living up on the moors for the best part of two months without a word? And what of the secret Ronnie has tried to keep buried for twenty four years? What will happen when the police search of the moors lead them onto his land? I did however like how the ending ultimately played out.
THE HIDDEN CHILD is well researched and skillfully plotted as Griffiths weaves fact with fiction. I love how she uses true crime not only as a backdrop to her recent thrillers but also involves them in the story that they become part of the fictionalised tale as well. She did it with John Christie in "The Girl at my Door" and she does it again with this cleverly crafted tale.
I have to wonder which infamous true crime case she will pull from the archives to weave her next story? The Yorkshire Ripper? The Beast of Birkenshaw? Dennis Neilsen? Fred and Rose West? They are the only UK serial killers I can think of off the top of my head just now. But whatever it is, I look forward to delving into that one also...
I would like to thank #RebeccaGriffiths, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheHiddenChild in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
April 12, 2022
The Hidden Child is the story of a young girl who goes missing amid a string of murders on the Moor in the 1960s, weaving together fact and fiction. This story was inspired by the true-crime Moor Murders, committed by Ian Brady and Myra Hindley in Manchester, England, between 1963 and 1965.
I knew nothing of the Moor Murders before listening to this audiobook, so I don't know how much of this story was true and won't be touching on that aspect of the book in this review. What I will touch on, however, is the book itself.
Sadly this story didn't pull me in the way I had hoped. The characters are effectively drawn in that they evoked strong emotions, but sadly those emotions were limited to hatred and disgust. Even the characters we are clearly meant to root for left a bad taste in my mouth and made horrible choices.
There wasn't much intrigue as the story was fairly straightforward without any twists or mystery. We knew who the killers were from the beginning, we always knew where the child was, and we knew how the story would end.
Speaking of the ending, it fell flat for me. Everything was tied in too perfect a bow to the point of absurdity, and the extremely happy ending didn't fit the dark, dreary, hopeless vibe of the rest of the story.
The only real positive for me was the narration, which was incredibly well done and perfectly captured the characters.
All in all, this was a miss for me, and sadly I can't think of who I would recommend it to.
I am grateful to Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for the ALC provided for review.
Trigger/Content Warnings: misogyny, violence, abuse (domestic and child), kidnapping, murder, animal cruelty/death
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I knew nothing of the Moor Murders before listening to this audiobook, so I don't know how much of this story was true and won't be touching on that aspect of the book in this review. What I will touch on, however, is the book itself.
Sadly this story didn't pull me in the way I had hoped. The characters are effectively drawn in that they evoked strong emotions, but sadly those emotions were limited to hatred and disgust. Even the characters we are clearly meant to root for left a bad taste in my mouth and made horrible choices.
There wasn't much intrigue as the story was fairly straightforward without any twists or mystery. We knew who the killers were from the beginning, we always knew where the child was, and we knew how the story would end.
Speaking of the ending, it fell flat for me. Everything was tied in too perfect a bow to the point of absurdity, and the extremely happy ending didn't fit the dark, dreary, hopeless vibe of the rest of the story.
The only real positive for me was the narration, which was incredibly well done and perfectly captured the characters.
All in all, this was a miss for me, and sadly I can't think of who I would recommend it to.
I am grateful to Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for the ALC provided for review.
Trigger/Content Warnings: misogyny, violence, abuse (domestic and child), kidnapping, murder, animal cruelty/death
You can find me on...
Youtube | Instagram | Twitter| TikTok
You can join our book club over on Patreon...
PBB Book Club
January 30, 2022
The Body on the Moor by Rebecca Griffiths is a strong 4 star read, but it is the audio delivery that raises it to a 5 star read for me! Read by Sarah Durham and Richard Burnip, they expertly capture the many different intonations of the English language, especially as portrayed in the rougher classes. This added immeasurably to my enjoyment of this story.
The author has skillfully set her own fictional story to play out alongside the true story of a well know pair of British killers responsible for what are known as the "Moor Murders", Myra Hindley and Ian Brady. When Connie's young daughter Kathy disappears from a parked car while she and her partner are in a bar, she has to come to a reckoning that she has been a bad mother. It's in all the papers that children have been disappearing, and she left Kathy unattended while meeting with her good friend Myna, and her new and unlikable boyfriend, Ian.
Meanwhile, over on the moors, quiet and unsociable farmer Ronald has his own problems to contend with. A young couple has been coming on his land uninvited, and frankly, the pair of them frighten him. Then two of his ewes are found shot and left to die. Ronald knows he should call the police, but he has secrets of his own he wants to keep buried. Ronald tends to the farm while his brother Thomas keeps the house and cooks. It is a quiet arrangement that has suited them both, but something happens that totally upends their lives and gives them what could be happiness, if they can just figure it all out.
Eventually these two lives will intersect: Ronald and Connie will find they have something in common. I really enjoyed listening to this story. The writing is very good and captures the personalities of the characters. I really felt I was back in Manchester in 1965. The narrators also helped with this. It was interesting to see this fictional mystery play out against the inevitable conclusion of the real-life mystery, a pair of murderers still infamous fifty years after their crimes were committed.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Bookouture for allowing me to listen to this audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The author has skillfully set her own fictional story to play out alongside the true story of a well know pair of British killers responsible for what are known as the "Moor Murders", Myra Hindley and Ian Brady. When Connie's young daughter Kathy disappears from a parked car while she and her partner are in a bar, she has to come to a reckoning that she has been a bad mother. It's in all the papers that children have been disappearing, and she left Kathy unattended while meeting with her good friend Myna, and her new and unlikable boyfriend, Ian.
Meanwhile, over on the moors, quiet and unsociable farmer Ronald has his own problems to contend with. A young couple has been coming on his land uninvited, and frankly, the pair of them frighten him. Then two of his ewes are found shot and left to die. Ronald knows he should call the police, but he has secrets of his own he wants to keep buried. Ronald tends to the farm while his brother Thomas keeps the house and cooks. It is a quiet arrangement that has suited them both, but something happens that totally upends their lives and gives them what could be happiness, if they can just figure it all out.
Eventually these two lives will intersect: Ronald and Connie will find they have something in common. I really enjoyed listening to this story. The writing is very good and captures the personalities of the characters. I really felt I was back in Manchester in 1965. The narrators also helped with this. It was interesting to see this fictional mystery play out against the inevitable conclusion of the real-life mystery, a pair of murderers still infamous fifty years after their crimes were committed.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Bookouture for allowing me to listen to this audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2022
Fantastic book. An 8-year-old girl, the fictional god-daughter of the unfortunately real Myra Hindley, goes missing in the middle of the infamous Moors Murderer's murderous spree in the mid 1960's, nearly 60 years ago - was she one of their victims?
Rebecca Griffiths has done a splendid job of weaving her fictional characters into the real life horror that was Brady and Hindley. She portrayed the grimness of 1960's Manchester and the bleakness and remoteness of the moors very well. She has also made those horrible specimens Hindley and Brady appear less palatable than I thought possible - my skin actually crawled every time he was featured. She's also done an excellent job of making the reader feel sorry for the anguish of the god-daughter's god-awful mother who was actually at fault for the child's disappearance.
Rebecca shows great respect to the real life victims and their families whom this book could not possibly not feature and has done a great job of writing fact and fiction together.
It's not particularly fast-paced (except for the ending which was very abrupt) and it's not thrilling or exciting or sensationalist but the writing flows well and the author tells a good tale and kept me interested throughout.
Rebecca Griffiths has done a splendid job of weaving her fictional characters into the real life horror that was Brady and Hindley. She portrayed the grimness of 1960's Manchester and the bleakness and remoteness of the moors very well. She has also made those horrible specimens Hindley and Brady appear less palatable than I thought possible - my skin actually crawled every time he was featured. She's also done an excellent job of making the reader feel sorry for the anguish of the god-daughter's god-awful mother who was actually at fault for the child's disappearance.
Rebecca shows great respect to the real life victims and their families whom this book could not possibly not feature and has done a great job of writing fact and fiction together.
It's not particularly fast-paced (except for the ending which was very abrupt) and it's not thrilling or exciting or sensationalist but the writing flows well and the author tells a good tale and kept me interested throughout.
March 12, 2022
I really enjoyed this read! I had no idea that it was based on real murders when I picked it up but I think the author did a great job putting together fiction with just a bit of true crime context. The characters were all well written and interesting, I especially enjoyed reading Thomas and Ronald's POV chapters as their storylines were my favourite. One thing I didn't enjoy too much was the way the dialogue was written. It made sense with the setting that the characters would have strong accents but I personally don't enjoy when accents are written in the way they were done in this novel.
4/5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this copy to review.
4/5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this copy to review.
March 2, 2022
I must admit that when i read the subject matter of this book i was in two minds if i wanted to listen to the book because as a child i lived in the same area that Brady and Hindley lived and have to credit the author for the compassionate way in which she deals with the subject and is able to mix fact and fiction
Rebecca Griffiths has certainly done plenty of research into the locations and north of England dialect and slang
The locations are accurate and i was transported back in time to the period when this was happening and how the local community came together and were looking at their neighbours to see if they might have taken the missing children and i recall catching the bus to Hyde Cheshire with my mother and people would move seats when the people from Hattersley got on the bus and this is accurately recreated in this book
As i said this book mixes fact and fiction and when Kathy Openshaw vanishes when she’s left unattended in her mother’s car her disappearance is linked to the real life victim's of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley whom you meet and from what has been written since about them you feel as you are a fly on the wall watching them but you are not going to read an account of their horrendous crimes and it might be a meeting in the pub or after a crime has been committed and
Hindley talking on her doorstep after returning from the moors
The main locations are Hattersley and The moors
There are two amazing narrators who capture the dialect perfectly and the locations which i have said they are accurate and i felt that i was walking along the streets were i lived as a child
The missing child plus another secret that has also been buried for years is added to the mix with the backdrop of moors murders are two stories that interweave well and i was hooked and had to listen in one day
The storyline does not focus on Brady and Hindley they are mainly in the background and the authors portrayal of Hindley and Brady gave me chills
This is an excellent book and will be one of my books of the year
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC copy of this book
Rebecca Griffiths has certainly done plenty of research into the locations and north of England dialect and slang
The locations are accurate and i was transported back in time to the period when this was happening and how the local community came together and were looking at their neighbours to see if they might have taken the missing children and i recall catching the bus to Hyde Cheshire with my mother and people would move seats when the people from Hattersley got on the bus and this is accurately recreated in this book
As i said this book mixes fact and fiction and when Kathy Openshaw vanishes when she’s left unattended in her mother’s car her disappearance is linked to the real life victim's of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley whom you meet and from what has been written since about them you feel as you are a fly on the wall watching them but you are not going to read an account of their horrendous crimes and it might be a meeting in the pub or after a crime has been committed and
Hindley talking on her doorstep after returning from the moors
The main locations are Hattersley and The moors
There are two amazing narrators who capture the dialect perfectly and the locations which i have said they are accurate and i felt that i was walking along the streets were i lived as a child
The missing child plus another secret that has also been buried for years is added to the mix with the backdrop of moors murders are two stories that interweave well and i was hooked and had to listen in one day
The storyline does not focus on Brady and Hindley they are mainly in the background and the authors portrayal of Hindley and Brady gave me chills
This is an excellent book and will be one of my books of the year
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC copy of this book
November 28, 2021
Any book based around the location and perpetrators of the infamous Moors Murders in the ‘60s will undoubtedly be controversial, and Rebecca Griffiths states upfront in her author’s note that while her story does feature controversial events and the people involved, it is a work of fiction. So that is the basis on which we should judge it.
Against the backdrop of cases of missing children, Connie’s daughter Kathy vanishes on the Moors near Manchester, England in 1965. One of the Moors’ inhabitants, Ronald, is desperate to keep his crimes, evidence of which is hidden on the Moors, (a location that becomes far too busy for his liking), secret forever. And what is Connie’s friend Myra and her boyfriend Ian doing on the Moors?
Myra and Ian are, of course, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady, the real-life perpetrators of the Moors Murders. No favours are done or apologies given for Myra Hindley and Ian Brady character-wise; they are as appalling in print as they were in real life, and they bring an awkward, even uncomfortable, frisson to the story.
The troubled Ronald is a well-realised tragic character, and there is an interesting contrast between Roland’s pre-war upbringing and reclusive life on the Moors, and the more up to date ‘60s world of Connie and Myra. This is, in a way, Ronald’s story, but we feel for Connie as a mother facing her worst nightmare.
Rebecca Griffiths’ previous book, “The Girl At My Door”, featured the real-life serial killer John Christie in an entirely fictional story, and to thrilling effect. Continuing the “true-crime fiction” genre, her latest is another powerful and visceral page-turner. Griffiths excels at hammering home every parent’s worst nightmare, and there are also very evocative and vivid descriptions of the Moors and the surrounding areas. The ‘60s period detail is also spot-on as usual.
Rebecca Griffiths doesn’t use real-life events and people gratuitously or in a slapdash way as a lesser writer would. That said, this book should be approached with caution as the subject matter is disturbing and the story very harrowing in parts, and evokes events that still resonate negatively in Britain today. “The Body on the Moor” is a stunning book that will scare, thrill and anger you. It is testament to Rebecca Griffiths’ skill as a writer just how much you will both love and hate this book.
Against the backdrop of cases of missing children, Connie’s daughter Kathy vanishes on the Moors near Manchester, England in 1965. One of the Moors’ inhabitants, Ronald, is desperate to keep his crimes, evidence of which is hidden on the Moors, (a location that becomes far too busy for his liking), secret forever. And what is Connie’s friend Myra and her boyfriend Ian doing on the Moors?
Myra and Ian are, of course, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady, the real-life perpetrators of the Moors Murders. No favours are done or apologies given for Myra Hindley and Ian Brady character-wise; they are as appalling in print as they were in real life, and they bring an awkward, even uncomfortable, frisson to the story.
The troubled Ronald is a well-realised tragic character, and there is an interesting contrast between Roland’s pre-war upbringing and reclusive life on the Moors, and the more up to date ‘60s world of Connie and Myra. This is, in a way, Ronald’s story, but we feel for Connie as a mother facing her worst nightmare.
Rebecca Griffiths’ previous book, “The Girl At My Door”, featured the real-life serial killer John Christie in an entirely fictional story, and to thrilling effect. Continuing the “true-crime fiction” genre, her latest is another powerful and visceral page-turner. Griffiths excels at hammering home every parent’s worst nightmare, and there are also very evocative and vivid descriptions of the Moors and the surrounding areas. The ‘60s period detail is also spot-on as usual.
Rebecca Griffiths doesn’t use real-life events and people gratuitously or in a slapdash way as a lesser writer would. That said, this book should be approached with caution as the subject matter is disturbing and the story very harrowing in parts, and evokes events that still resonate negatively in Britain today. “The Body on the Moor” is a stunning book that will scare, thrill and anger you. It is testament to Rebecca Griffiths’ skill as a writer just how much you will both love and hate this book.
February 7, 2022
A chilling thriller that was hard to put down!
This book has some intertwining plots that come together nicely. I like how the death if Ronald's father has him on edge a lot of the story and really makes the reader worried for him throughout. At first I really didn't like Connie's character due to her treatment of her daughter and her unsavory friends. A glimpse of good came out of her once her daughter Kathy went missing and she really discovered how much she really cared.
It took a little bit to sort out the timelines between characters, but the sequence of events were well written in alternating between Connie and Ronald.
The outcome wasn't surprising, but the journey to get there kept me on edge due to ultimately liking some of the main characters.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
This book has some intertwining plots that come together nicely. I like how the death if Ronald's father has him on edge a lot of the story and really makes the reader worried for him throughout. At first I really didn't like Connie's character due to her treatment of her daughter and her unsavory friends. A glimpse of good came out of her once her daughter Kathy went missing and she really discovered how much she really cared.
It took a little bit to sort out the timelines between characters, but the sequence of events were well written in alternating between Connie and Ronald.
The outcome wasn't surprising, but the journey to get there kept me on edge due to ultimately liking some of the main characters.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
February 25, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Hidden Child' by Rebecca Griffiths.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Rebecca Griffiths, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 24th February 2022.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'The Girl At My Door' which I highly recommend. This book was previously titled 'The Body On The Moor'.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Inspired by a real-life true crime story, this is an unforgettable and totally gripping mystery thriller perfect for fans of Gregg Olsen, Elly Griffiths and Found. ' I am a huge fan of Gregg Olsen so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Rebecca and if this is half as good as 'The Girl At My Door' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 55 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Yorkshire and Manchester, UK 🇬🇧.
The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually been to Manchester on several occasions so am intrigued to see if I can put names to places I have been.
This book is written third person perspective and the protagonists are Ronald and Connie.The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'The Hidden Child' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Rebecca discusses/includes animal abuse, child abuse and murder of children.
When I first decided to read this book it was titled 'The Body On The Moor' before it was renamed 'The Hidden Child'. I must admit that even knowing the original title and reading the synopsis that I had no idea it was based on Myra Hindley and Ian Brady. These two are pretty well known for all the wrong reasons. I worked out that they were who the book was based on in the first page when 'Aunt Myra' was mentioned. The way Rebecca has written this book is very clever in the fact that she doesn't only focus on Myra and Ian but also on Connie, Ronald and Thomas as seperate storylines which weave together throughout the book. This book starts with Ronnie and his father and then moves onto Connie's daughter going missing which then leads into what Myra and Ian are getting up to. Although this book is based on fact it is important to remember that it is a fictional story and that many scenarios were created with the intention of making a story of all the events. I think Rebecca has done a fantastic job of doing this and it gives more of an insight into people who may have known Myra and Ian. I did struggle with the time changes and it took me a while to realise that the dates were going back and forth which did cause some confusion until I worked it out. The storyline is filled with abuse, murder, violence and crime but there is also family, love and romance involved. Myra and Ian are absolute despicable and vile creatures and what they did to them poor children was just unthinkable and then making it even worse by allowing the parents to suffer by not releasing details of where they buried them is just inhumane. My thoughts will always go out to Keith Bennett's family, the victim who was never found. What these sickos did to these children is a parents worse nightmare. Rebecca has written this book really well and has really shown what their personalities were like and how ruthless and heartless they were. One of the things I did notice is that she didn't focus on them too much and only as much as was necessary to tell the story. I am glad she did this as there are too many books out there that gives these scum the fame they do not deserve. I had mixed feelings towards Connie for a long time but, although I still think it is disgusting how she treated her child and left her in a car, I would not wish what Ian and Myra did to the children on any parents. I absolutely adored Ron and especially Thomas who were such genuine men who just fit themselves into a situation where the longer they were in it the deeper the hole they dug themselves. I'm pleased with how the book ended but I must admit I did feel that it was a bit rushed.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
Congratulations Rebecca on a page turning success!!!
A must read for true crime lovers!
Overall a page turning psychological crime thriller based on a true story that will keep you turning the pages until late at night.
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Crime Thriller, Psychological Fiction and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Gregg Olsen and anyone interested in true crime.
361 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4 /5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheHiddenChild #Bookouture #RebeccaGriffiths #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@RebeccaGriffiths @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
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Review for 'The Hidden Child' by Rebecca Griffiths.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Rebecca Griffiths, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 24th February 2022.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'The Girl At My Door' which I highly recommend. This book was previously titled 'The Body On The Moor'.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Inspired by a real-life true crime story, this is an unforgettable and totally gripping mystery thriller perfect for fans of Gregg Olsen, Elly Griffiths and Found. ' I am a huge fan of Gregg Olsen so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Rebecca and if this is half as good as 'The Girl At My Door' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 55 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Yorkshire and Manchester, UK 🇬🇧.
The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually been to Manchester on several occasions so am intrigued to see if I can put names to places I have been.
This book is written third person perspective and the protagonists are Ronald and Connie.The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'The Hidden Child' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Rebecca discusses/includes animal abuse, child abuse and murder of children.
When I first decided to read this book it was titled 'The Body On The Moor' before it was renamed 'The Hidden Child'. I must admit that even knowing the original title and reading the synopsis that I had no idea it was based on Myra Hindley and Ian Brady. These two are pretty well known for all the wrong reasons. I worked out that they were who the book was based on in the first page when 'Aunt Myra' was mentioned. The way Rebecca has written this book is very clever in the fact that she doesn't only focus on Myra and Ian but also on Connie, Ronald and Thomas as seperate storylines which weave together throughout the book. This book starts with Ronnie and his father and then moves onto Connie's daughter going missing which then leads into what Myra and Ian are getting up to. Although this book is based on fact it is important to remember that it is a fictional story and that many scenarios were created with the intention of making a story of all the events. I think Rebecca has done a fantastic job of doing this and it gives more of an insight into people who may have known Myra and Ian. I did struggle with the time changes and it took me a while to realise that the dates were going back and forth which did cause some confusion until I worked it out. The storyline is filled with abuse, murder, violence and crime but there is also family, love and romance involved. Myra and Ian are absolute despicable and vile creatures and what they did to them poor children was just unthinkable and then making it even worse by allowing the parents to suffer by not releasing details of where they buried them is just inhumane. My thoughts will always go out to Keith Bennett's family, the victim who was never found. What these sickos did to these children is a parents worse nightmare. Rebecca has written this book really well and has really shown what their personalities were like and how ruthless and heartless they were. One of the things I did notice is that she didn't focus on them too much and only as much as was necessary to tell the story. I am glad she did this as there are too many books out there that gives these scum the fame they do not deserve. I had mixed feelings towards Connie for a long time but, although I still think it is disgusting how she treated her child and left her in a car, I would not wish what Ian and Myra did to the children on any parents. I absolutely adored Ron and especially Thomas who were such genuine men who just fit themselves into a situation where the longer they were in it the deeper the hole they dug themselves. I'm pleased with how the book ended but I must admit I did feel that it was a bit rushed.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
Congratulations Rebecca on a page turning success!!!
A must read for true crime lovers!
Overall a page turning psychological crime thriller based on a true story that will keep you turning the pages until late at night.
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Crime Thriller, Psychological Fiction and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Gregg Olsen and anyone interested in true crime.
361 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4 /5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheHiddenChild #Bookouture #RebeccaGriffiths #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@RebeccaGriffiths @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
February 5, 2022
A really interesting and original book that merges fact with fiction. Despite dealing with horrifying crimes in the 1960s the author does not glamorise the perpetrators - in fact they are only really background characters (vile and horrible people) and are only there to propel the story of Connie Openshaw whose daughter Kathy goes missing and Ronald Cappleman who lives on a farm on Saddleworth Moor. Well written and engaging. Highly recommend. I will be reading more from this author. Thank you netgally for an ARC of this book.
February 8, 2022
I found this book hard to read because I didn't like a single character in the book and therefore found myself not caring what happened with any of them.
I wasn't familiar with the Moors murders before reading this book and I found the story to be too predictable for my liking. I needed more suspense and intrigue to carry me through the book. I had high hopes for this one, but it was a miss for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the eARC in exchange for my honest review
I wasn't familiar with the Moors murders before reading this book and I found the story to be too predictable for my liking. I needed more suspense and intrigue to carry me through the book. I had high hopes for this one, but it was a miss for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the eARC in exchange for my honest review
February 18, 2022
This is an amazing audio book that is narrated by Sarah Durham and Richard Burnip. They both did an amazing job of bringing the characters in this novel alive. Partly based on fact the author brings her version of The Moors Murders to life in this mystery.
Griffiths conveys the time period really well there were times I actually forgot i was not in Manchester, England in 1965. Another standout for me was the way the characters were bought to life. You could feel the evil, despair, trauma, hope and helpless and joy along with the characters.
I really enjoyed the use of a real story to drive the plot of the fiction one. If you are looking for a great mystery add this book to your TBR list now.
Griffiths conveys the time period really well there were times I actually forgot i was not in Manchester, England in 1965. Another standout for me was the way the characters were bought to life. You could feel the evil, despair, trauma, hope and helpless and joy along with the characters.
I really enjoyed the use of a real story to drive the plot of the fiction one. If you are looking for a great mystery add this book to your TBR list now.
March 16, 2022
The Hidden Child is the story of a young girl who goes missing amid a string of murders on the Moor in the 1960s, weaving together fact and fiction. This story was inspired by the true-crime Moor Murders, committed by Ian Brady and Myra Hindley in Manchester, England, between 1963 and 1965.
I knew nothing of the Moor Murders before listening to this audiobook, so I don't know how much of this story was true and won't be touching on that aspect of the book in this review. What I will touch on, however, is the book itself.
Sadly this story didn't pull me in the way I had hoped. The characters are effectively drawn in that they evoked strong emotions, but sadly those emotions were limited to hatred and disgust. Even the characters we are clearly meant to root for left a bad taste in my mouth and made horrible choices.
There wasn't much intrigue as the story was fairly straightforward without any twists or mystery. We knew who the killers were from the beginning, we always knew where the child was, and we knew how the story would end.
Speaking of the ending, it fell flat for me. Everything was tied in too perfect a bow to the point of absurdity, and the extremely happy ending didn't fit the dark, dreary, hopeless vibe of the rest of the story.
The only real positive for me was the narration, which was incredibly well done and perfectly captured the characters.
All in all, this was a miss for me, and sadly I can't think of who I would recommend it to.
I am grateful to Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for the ALC provided for review.
Trigger/Content Warnings: misogyny, violence, abuse (domestic and child), kidnapping, murder, animal cruelty/death
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I knew nothing of the Moor Murders before listening to this audiobook, so I don't know how much of this story was true and won't be touching on that aspect of the book in this review. What I will touch on, however, is the book itself.
Sadly this story didn't pull me in the way I had hoped. The characters are effectively drawn in that they evoked strong emotions, but sadly those emotions were limited to hatred and disgust. Even the characters we are clearly meant to root for left a bad taste in my mouth and made horrible choices.
There wasn't much intrigue as the story was fairly straightforward without any twists or mystery. We knew who the killers were from the beginning, we always knew where the child was, and we knew how the story would end.
Speaking of the ending, it fell flat for me. Everything was tied in too perfect a bow to the point of absurdity, and the extremely happy ending didn't fit the dark, dreary, hopeless vibe of the rest of the story.
The only real positive for me was the narration, which was incredibly well done and perfectly captured the characters.
All in all, this was a miss for me, and sadly I can't think of who I would recommend it to.
I am grateful to Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for the ALC provided for review.
Trigger/Content Warnings: misogyny, violence, abuse (domestic and child), kidnapping, murder, animal cruelty/death
You can find me on...
Youtube | Instagram | Twitter| TikTok
You can join our book club over on Patreon...
PBB Book Club
January 10, 2022
This an extremely well written fact/fiction book that I personally have found difficult to review. I lived in the near vicinity to where these atrocities took place, actually knowing people involved in the case, atrocities that have stayed with many of us over a long period of time. Although the storyline is excellent, I found it hard to mix the fact with the fiction and it would have sat more comfortably with me if two of the main characters had not involved the real life murderers. However I have to review with an open mind and I think most people will really enjoy this book from this talented author. Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
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