Review: The Damage Done by Hilary Davidson

Lily Moore is a travel writer, living in Spain.  She’s called to return to New York after her sister, Claudia, is found dead in her apartment.  Claudia had her share of trouble; she was a recovering heroin addict, living in an apartment Lily paid for.  Lily is instantly riddled with guilt; she hadn’t talked to her sister in several months.

When Lily goes to identify the body, she is shocked to find that the body is not her sisters, but another “Claudia” who has been living in her sister’s apartment for months.  In investigation is instantly launched, led by NYPD detectives Renfrew & Buxton, aided by Lily. 

As if her sister’s death isn’t enough, Lily is forced to deal with her ex-fiance, Martin Sklar, a wealthy hotel owner who can’t seem to get over her. When the police find proof that Martin & Claudia had lengthy phone conversations while she was in Spain, Lily can’t help but wonder if the two were “involved.”

Ultimately, the investigation leads police to a rehab clinic & a doctor who had a reputation of becoming involved with his female patients.

My copy of The Damage Done has been sitting on my TBR shelf for several weeks.  I was waiting for some quiet time to sit down & completely devote myself to it.  This weekend was the perfect time.  Within minutes, I was completely absorbed in the story.  My expectations were exceeded, something that hasn’t happened recently.

The Damage Done is a stellar debut novel by Hilary Davidson.  I appreciated how she incorporated parts of her life (as a travel writer) into the main character, Lily.  Lily is an extremely realistic and flawed character: her exterior reveals a strong, independent woman but inside she’s vulnerable.

The storyline is unique & compelling. Throughout the book, Davidson threw out enough curve-balls that I was completely suprised by the resolution. The ending is wrapped up well, finely paced, not rushed at all. I’m hoping there is a sequel or two…the sexual tension between her & Detective Buxton must be dealt with!

Fans of crime fiction will be enamored by this phenomenal piece of debut fiction.  Pick it up; you won’t regret it!