The Girl’s Last Cry by Alison Belsham

*** Review ***

The Girl’s Last Cry is the second installment in the Detective Lexi Bennett series by Alison Belsham. This gripping psychological crime thriller takes readers on a fast-paced, action-filled journey filled with tension, adrenaline, and unexpected twists. With a well-developed and intriguing plot, Belsham delivers a nail-biting page-turner that will keep readers hooked from beginning to end.

The story follows Detective Lexi Bennett as she stumbles upon the body of a teenage girl in the quiet streets of Canterbury. Determined to find answers, Lexi investigates whether the girl’s death was a suicide, an accident, or something more sinister. As she delves deeper into the case, she discovers connections to another teenager’s death, and a pattern emerges. The use of similar phrases in their suicide notes and the presence of additional footprints at the crime scene suggest a manipulative and ruthless killer is at large.

Belsham masterfully weaves a complex narrative, blending a gripping police procedural with elements of a spy thriller. The story gradually intensifies, becoming more inventive and engaging with every turn of the page. The author effectively incorporates the backstories of Lexi, her family, and her colleagues, providing a deeper understanding of their motivations and relationships. This adds another layer of depth to the story, making it more than just a typical crime novel.

One of the standout aspects of The Girl’s Last Cry is the exploration of the power of influence, particularly the anonymous online influence that can have devastating consequences. Belsham delves into the theme of how easily vulnerable individuals can be swayed and manipulated by faceless entities. The portrayal of suicidal ideation is handled with sensitivity, shedding light on the importance of mental health awareness.

The character development in this book is exceptional. Lexi Bennett emerges as a truly remarkable protagonist, driven by compassion, determination, and a quiet love for those around her. Witnessing her growth from the first book to this installment creates an emotional connection with the readers, making her relatable and likable. The supporting characters in the series also receive attention and evolve, making their breakthroughs and accomplishments sources of pride for the readers.

The setting of the story in Canterbury adds depth and atmosphere to the narrative. Belsham captures the essence of the city, using its ancient towers and quiet streets as a backdrop for the unfolding mystery. The attention to detail in describing the surroundings immerses readers in the world of the story, enhancing the overall reading experience.

While The Girl’s Last Cry is part of a series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. Although references are made to events from the previous book, it does not hinder the comprehension or enjoyment of the story. Readers new to the series will have no trouble diving into the thrilling world of Lexi Bennett.

Despite its many strengths, the book does have a couple of negative aspects. The portrayal of suicidal ideation may be triggering for some readers, so caution is advised. Additionally, a few parts towards the end of the book are described as illogical and far-fetched, potentially straining the suspension of disbelief.

However, these minor flaws do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. The fast-paced nature of the plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeps readers engaged and eager to uncover the truth. Belsham’s writing style is engaging and evocative, heightening the suspense and creating a palpable sense of tension throughout the narrative.

In The Girl’s Last Cry, Belsham successfully combines elements of a police procedural, a psychological thriller, and a family drama, creating a multi-layered story that appeals to a wide range of readers. The exploration of the power of influence, both online and offline, adds a thought-provoking dimension to the narrative, making it more than just a typical crime novel.

In conclusion, The Girl’s Last Cry is a compelling and gripping psychological crime thriller that showcases Alison Belsham’s talent for crafting suspenseful narratives. With a well-developed plot, excellent character development, and a thought-provoking exploration of themes, this book will satisfy fans of the genre. While there are some potential triggers and moments of implausibility, they do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story. For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled and twist-filled read, The Girl’s Last Cry is a definite recommendation.