Park Lane South, Queens

This delightful debut introduces a modern yet traditional New York City family--Stan and Mary Breslinsky and their three daughters: acclaimed photographer Claire, police officer Zinnie and fashion columnist Carmela, plus Zinnie's four-year-old son Michaelaen. All live in the peaceful family home in the Richmond Hill area of Queens, where Claire has recently returned after having worked for years in Europe and Asia. The neighborhood loses its tranquility, however, when a young boy is murdered and mutilated. With her photographer's eye for detail, Claire becomes involved in the investigation, meeting detective Johnny Benedetto, who falls for her. Claire's cameras (perhaps containing incriminating photos) are stolen; another child is killed. Friends and neighbors become suspects, including Zinnie's ex-husband, a restaurateur; a local woman thought to be a witch; and a U.N. diplomat living nearby who shows a sudden interest in all three sisters, particularly Claire. There are disturbing indications that Michaelaen knows something about the deaths--and then he disappears. Kelly escalates the suspense while demonstrating an unerring sense for the nuances of family and other relationships. ( Mar. )